Veterinary Medicine Review

Flashcards covering key terms and concepts related to veterinary medicine, specifically renal diseases, endocrine disorders, and urinalysis.

What do elevated levels of BUN (Blood Urea Nitrogen) and creatinine typically indicate in a patient?

Renal/kidney disease or impaired kidney function, as these are waste products normally filtered by the kidneys.

What key component typically evaluated in a routine urinalysis is excluded?

glucose, protein, USG, and creatinine

creatinine. (blood)

What can a low urine specific gravity indicate:

renal insufficiency, concentrated urine, diabetes insipidus, or dehydration?

Renal disease

What are two common clinical signs observed in cats suffering from hyperthyroidism?

Two common clinical signs of feline hyperthyroidism are an increased appetite (polyphagia) despite experiencing weight loss.

What is another common name for the endocrine disorder Hypoadrenocorticism?

Hypoadrenocorticism is also commonly known as Addison's disease.

What characteristic electrolyte imbalances are typically seen in patients with Addison's disease (Hypoadrenocorticism)?

Addison's disease is characterized by significant electrolyte imbalances, specifically low sodium (hyponatremia) and high potassium (hyperkalemia) levels.

How is Cushing's disease often described in relation to Addison's disease, and what are some characteristic symptoms?

Cushing's disease is often considered the opposite of Addison's disease (hyperadrenocorticism). Its symptoms include various clinical signs such as thin, dry skin, a potbellied appearance, increased thirst (polydipsia), increased urination (polyuria), and muscle weakness.

What is fructosamine primarily used for in diagnostic testing?

Fructosamine is primarily used to monitor average blood glucose levels over an extended period (typically 1-3 weeks), providing an indication of glycemic control, especially useful in diabetic patients.

Which liver enzyme, commonly measured in dogs and cats, most specific for hepatocelliular injury?

Alanine aminotransferase (ALT)