Primary idiopathic hypoparathyroidism in St. Bernard dogs

Authors: Jones BR, Alley MR
Publication: New Zealand Veterinary Journal, Volume 33, Issue 6, pp 94-97, Jun 1985
Publisher: Taylor and Francis

Animal type: Companion animal, Dog
Subject Terms: Clinical pathology, Diagnostic procedures, Endocrine/autocrine/paracrine, Idiopathic disease, Minerals/elememts, Toxicology, Pest/pesticides
Article class: Clinical Communication

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Abstract: Primary hypoparathyroidism was diagnosed in three St. Bernard bitches. Anorexia, behavioural changes, muscle tremors, seizures, panting respiration, and cataracts were the clinical signs observed. The serum concentration of calcium was low, the phosphorus concentration elevated, and the immunoreactive parathyroid hormone level low in all dogs. The aetiology of the hypoparathyroidism was not determined in any of the dogs. Treatment with synthetic vitamin D (1,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol) and an oral calcium supplement was successful in restoring and then maintaining a normal concentration of serum calcium in two of the dogs.

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