2016 ACVIM Forum Research Abstract Program

The overall prevalence of Spec cPL ≥ 200 µg/L and ≥ 400 µg/L in dogs with GI FBs was relatively low (24.5% and 18.4%, respectively). Spec cPL was higher in middle aged and older dogs, dogs with linear FBs, and dogs that needed to undergo surgery for FB removal. A Spec cPL≥ 400 µg/L was noted in both dogs that were euthanized. Due to this small number, additional studies would be needed to confirm if an elevated Spec cPL is associated with a negative outcome in dogs with GI FBs. Prednisone and other glucocorticoids (GCs) are commonly used as long-term medications to treat a multitude of immune mediated, inflammatory, and neoplastic diseases in dogs. Patients with many of these diseases may have clinical signs that overlap with those of patients with pancreatitis. The effect of long-term GC administration on canine serum Spec cPL concentrations has not been adequately assessed. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine if long-term administration of GCs at supraphysiologic doses affects serum concentrations of Spec cPL in dogs with a variety of different diseases.