Introduction

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is characterized as irreversible damage to the nephrons and a resulting decline in their rate of glomerular filtration. Intermittent hemodialysis (IHD) is an efficient and commonly prescribed extracorporeal dialytic technique. IHD is recommended in animals with CKD and aims for the improvement of clinical signs and the promotion of a better quality of life.

Objectives

This study aimed to evaluate the serum levels of creatinine, urea and albumin of dogs with CKD stage 3 which underwent to intermittent hemodialysis.

Methods

The study randomly assigned 6 dogs previously diagnosed with CKD stage 3. Dogs were of both genders, different ages and breeds. All dogs underwent to IHD twice a week for 15 days. Blood samples were collected before and after treatment and they have received clinical, laboratorial, and physical daily evaluations.

Results

Urea and serum creatinine levels were clearly lower after the dialytic treatment, with significant reductions in serum urea on Days 8 and 12, and significant reductions in serum creatinine on Day 1 to Day 12 (Table 1). The prescription of IHD for dogs with CKD stage III did reduce serum urea and creatinine levels. Serum albumin levels revealed significant reductions in POST samples on Day 5 and Day 8 compared with those in PRE samples. However, there were no significant changes in albumin levels after hemodialysis.

Table 1. Hemodialysis group (HDG)

Conclusions

Hence, IHD is an effective therapy for the removal of nitrogenous compounds not affecting as much serum albumin levels in dogs with CKD in stage 3.