Serum cobalamin concentrations in dogs infected with canine parvoviral enteritis

Abstract

Abstract OBJECTIVE To compare the serum cobalamin concentrations in canine parvovirus (CPV)–infected dogs with those of healthy control dogs. Animals 45 dogs with CPV enteritis and 17 healthy age-matched control dogs. Procedures Infection was confirmed by visualization of CPV-2 through fecal electron microscopy. All dogs received supportive care. Serum samples taken at admission were used to determine cobalamin, C-reactive protein, and albumin concentrations. Results Serum cobalamin concentrations were significantly lower in the CPV-infected group (median [interquartile range], 173 pmol/L [< 111 to 722 pmol/L]) than in healthy control dogs (379 pmol/L [193 to > 738 pmol/L). There was no association between cobalamin concentration and C-reactive protein or albumin concentration. Clinical Relevance While hypocobalaminemia was common in CPV-infected dogs, the clinical relevance of this finding remains to be determined. Studies assessing markers of cellular cobalamin deficiency in dogs with CPV infection appear warranted.