Canine Hyperparathyroidism: Understanding the Condition

Dogs suffering from hyperparathyroidism often exhibit a lack of appetite, vomiting, constipation, muscle weakness, unsteady gait, disorientation, dull responses, and irregular heartbeat. They may also drink and urinate excessively, with occasional hematuria and urinary tract stones, often accompanied by metabolic acidosis.

In cases of pseudohyperparathyroidism, the symptoms are similar to those of primary hyperparathyroidism, but also include pathological fractures and other complications such as malignant tumors.

Nutritional or secondary hyperparathyroidism in dogs primarily presents with osteoporosis, characterized by multiple bone diseases and fractures upon palpation. Dogs may show limping and abnormal gait. Adult dogs often display significant demineralization of the mandible, with the disappearance of the alveolar periosteum.

For dogs with renal hyperparathyroidism, in addition to systemic bone resorption (especially in the skull), signs of renal insufficiency and uremia, such as polydipsia, polyuria, dehydration, vomiting, and a foul ammonia odor in exhalation, may be observed. In puppies with congenital renal dysfunction, swelling of the head and abnormal deciduous teeth can be seen.

Treatment:

For primary hyperparathyroidism, mild cases may benefit from a 200ml intravenous injection of phosphate solution to promote calcium uptake into the bones. To prevent dehydration, adequate fluid replacement and symptomatic treatment are essential. For dogs with parathyroid tumors or hyperplastic glands, surgical removal is recommended. Postoperative seizures can be treated with a slow intravenous injection of 10 to 15ml of calcium gluconate. In cases where surgery is not advisable, estrogen or anabolic steroids can be administered to suppress bone resorption.

In cases of pseudohyperparathyroidism, earlystage tumors should be surgically removed, and combined therapies such as chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, and symptomatic treatment should be considered.

For nutritional or secondary hyperparathyroidism, young dogs can be fed a diet rich in vitamin D and a calciumtophosphorus ratio of 2:1 for 23 months. For dogs with decreased appetite, intravenous calcium gluconate can be administered to alleviate symptoms. Due to the risk of new fractures, careful management is crucial. After symptoms improve, a diet with a calciumtophosphorus ratio of 1.2:1 can be introduced.

In cases of renal hyperparathyroidism, the disease often presents as a chronic, irreversible condition, making it challenging to cure. Generally, dogs with chronic renal insufficiency should receive symptomatic treatment, and the calcium content in their diet should be appropriately increased.