Diagnostic and treatment methods
at the cutting edge of science
Bonn. On July 13, the summer symposium of the Academy for Animal Health (AfT) took place in Munich. During the event, internationally recognized experts gave lectures on the frequency and occurrence of poisonings and possible treatments in the event of intoxication in dogs and cats.
Animals suspected of poisoning are a regular reason for presentation to the veterinary emergency service. These cases include animals that may have ingested a poisonous substance as well as those that are presented with non-specific symptoms or actual symptoms of poisoning. However, only in a few cases can the suspicion of poisoning be confirmed by direct evidence.
The symposium, organized by the Academy of Animal Health, examined basic information on poisoning, the handling of sample material, the interpretation of findings, and treatment options for poisonings caused by various causes. The audience was given a detailed insight into the current state of experience and the latest scientific findings in the specialist presentations.
Carefully investigate any suspected poisoning
The prognosis for dogs and cats in the event of poisoning depends heavily on the type of poison, the amount ingested and the timing of veterinary treatment. From an emergency medicine perspective, it is important to investigate every suspected case of poisoning until it can be ruled out with certainty that no relevant amounts of poison have been ingested or that the poison is no longer active.
Therapy should always be tailored to the suspected cause of the poisoning and include general management of the poisoning as well as targeted treatment of specific symptoms, including possible administration of an antidote.
Decontamination in case of poisoning: Optimal measures for rapid help
Rapid and effective decontamination is the critical first step for successful treatment. This process aims to remove the toxin from the body to prevent further absorption. Time is of the essence: the faster the decontamination occurs, the more successful it can be. Decontamination methods available to veterinarians include induction of vomiting, gastric and intestinal lavage, administration of activated charcoal, and washing the patient if the toxin has been absorbed topically.
The aim of elimination is to excrete toxins that have been absorbed into the body or circulation as quickly as possible. The choice of elimination method is mainly based on the physical and kinetic properties of the toxin. An important distinguishing feature is the water or fat solubility of the toxin, which is indicated by the distribution volume in the body. The residence time of water-soluble toxins can be minimized, for example, by optimizing kidney function through fluid diuresis, if necessary in combination with diuretics, modifying the pH value of the urine, and accelerating bladder emptying. In contrast, the option of hemodialysis is only available in a few clinics. Plasmapheresis is preferred for the elimination of fat-soluble toxins; this involves removing 1 to 2 times the patient's plasma volume and replacing it with donor plasma or other fluids.
Rodenticide poisoning:
Current knowledge and treatment recommendations
Coumarins are used both for pest control and for therapeutic blood thinning. Dogs usually absorb rodenticides directly, while cats are often indirectly affected via poisoned rodents. Symptoms usually appear after a delay, around 36 to 72 hours. They are initially non-specific, but can quickly lead to serious complications such as bleeding in the gastrointestinal tract. Diagnosis is made using point-of-care tests to determine coagulation parameters. In the case of acute ingestion, rapid decontamination is also crucial. Monitoring coagulation parameters within the first 36 to 72 hours is important to determine the need for vitamin K to neutralize the coumarin effect. The duration of therapy varies between seven days and four weeks depending on the coumarin derivative and the size of the animal.
Common causes of poisoning in the home:
Plants, food, medicines
Pet owners can do a lot to ensure the safety of their pets in their own environment. Poisoning from house and garden plants in particular poses a potential danger to dogs and cats. If pet owners suspect that their pet has eaten a plant, it is important that they bring the plant parts to the practice for precise identification. This allows a quick and precise diagnosis to be made and the right treatment to be initiated.
Household products such as cleaning products are also a common source of danger. In this case, it is important to know the ingredients and possible interactions between different products. Alkaline and acidic products can cause corrosive injuries to the skin and organs. Induced vomiting and gastric lavage are not indicated in cases of poisoning with these products because of the risk of re-exposure. Ethylene glycol, often found in antifreeze, is fatal even in small quantities and requires specific treatment. Foods such as chocolate, grapes/raisins and onions are poisonous for both dogs and cats. Symptoms vary depending on the substance ingested and range from gastrointestinal complaints to neurological symptoms. Dogs can also be poisoned with xylitol. Dogs are particularly sensitive to sweeteners, and this can lead to increased insulin secretion, a drop in blood sugar and liver damage.
Drug poisoning is one of the most common causes of poisoning in pets. Exposure often occurs through accidental ingestion of human or veterinary drugs. Safe and inaccessible storage of drugs can prevent poisoning. Pet owners should also refrain from attempting to administer medication.
Toxicological analysis: preliminary report and
Correct sampling is crucial for meaningful results
Toxicological analysis plays a crucial role in solving cases of poisoning in animals. It usually provides qualitative results and provides information about the presence of specific poisons or groups of substances. A toxicological report evaluates the plausibility and probable role of the identified poison in the poisoning process.
The order for the investigation must express a precise suspicion of poisoning, including a comprehensive medical history, results of the general examination and the specific symptoms of poisoning. The effects of previous therapy attempts are also important for narrowing down the potential poison.
The choice of sample material depends on the pharmacokinetic properties of the poison. It is important to note that the detection time of poisons depends on various factors, including the amount ingested and the stability of the poison in the sample material. EDTA blood, serum or blood plasma samples are suitable, and if necessary also stomach contents, urine and liver samples. Kidney, muscle, nerve or fatty tissue as well as feces are generally unsuitable.
Correct handling and packaging as well as cooling of the samples during transport are also crucial for the integrity of the subsequent evaluation. For your own protection, Gloves be worn.