|
|
|
The following section on normal lab values is
for information only. It is not to replace the advice of your veterinarian.
You should not use this information in trying to make a diagnosis
yourself. Your pet's life is too important to make your own diagnosis!
One of the first steps in determining the state of health for a dog
is to do a complete blood workup. This involves taking a blood sample
and sending it to a lab for testing of various chemical levels, and
making a count of the different types of cells present. While bloodwork
alone can rarely be used in making a diagnosis, it is an important
clue for the vet. Below is an alphabetical listing and definition
of normal veterinary ranges in both blood chemistry and blood cell
counts. Keep in mind that normal ranges may vary slightly between
different laboratories.Also included here is information pertaining
to normal body temperature for dogs.
Alkaline Phosphatase (ALKP): 23 - 212 U/L (units per liter)
Definition: An enzyme predominantly produced in the liver and bone.
Levels are elevated in liver disease.
Alanine transaminase (ALT): 10 - 100 U/L Definition: An enzyme
found in the blood which can be found in many tissues of the body
but more highly concentrated in the liver.High levels can be an indicator
of liver disease.
Albumin (ALB): 2.70 - 3.80 g/dl Definition: Synthesized in
the liver, Albumin contains the highest concentration of protein in
plasma. It's prime function is to keep fluid from leaking into the
tissues and is also a good indicator of kidney and liver disease.
Amylase (AMYL): 500 - 1500 U/L Definition: An enzyme released
in the pancreas. Useful in diagnosing pancreatic disorders.
Bilirubin (TBIL): 0.00 - 0.90 mg/dl Definition: Bilirubin is
the product that results from the breakdown of hemoglobin in the red
blood cells. Abnormal bilirubin can be a sign of liver problems.
Calcium (Ca): 7.90 - 12.00 mg/dl (milligrams per deciliter) Definition:
Tests calcium levels in the blood to detect any disorders in the bones
or kidneys.
Cloride (Cl): 109.0 - 122.0 mmol/1 Definition: Linked with
Sodium, changes in this level often accompany the changes in the sodium
level.
Cholesterol (CHOL): 110.0 - 320.0 mg/dl Definition: A steroid
made in the liver, it's function is to form cell membranes that are
utilized in all parts of the body.
Creatinine (CREA): 0.50 - 1.80 mg/dl Definition: Part of muscle
make up, creatinine levels can determine kidney function.
Globulin (GLOB): 2.50 - 4.50 g/dl Definition: A measurement
of this protein in the blood.
Glucose (GLU): 77.0 - 125.0 mg/dl Definition: The source of
energy for red blood cells, brain and most parts of the body.
Granulocytes (GRANS): 3.3 - 12.0 Definition: Produced in the
bone marrow, they comprise 70% of all white blood cells as they include
neutrophils, eosinophils and basophils.
Hematocrit (HCT) normal range: 37 - 55% Definition: The hematocrit
is the percent of whole blood that is made up of red blood cells.
The hematocrit is the compound measure of Red Blood count number and
size.
Hemoglobin (HGB) normal range: 12.0 - 18.0 g/dl (grams per deciliter)
Definition: Hemoglobin is the oxygen carrying protein in the red blood
cells.
Lipase (LIPA): 200 - 1800 U/L Definition: Secreted by the pancreas,
lipase values can be an indicator of the function of the pancreas.
Lymphocytes/Monocytes (L/M): 1.1-6.3 Definition: Lymphocytes are produced
in the lymph nodes through the body and are responsible for the activity
of the immune system by producing antibodies. Monocytes make up about
5% of the white cell count and act as scavengers for the removal of
debris from dead tissue and areas of inflammation.
Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin Concentration (MCHC): 30.0 - 36.9 g/dl
Definition: Hemoglobin concentration per red blood cell.
Phosphate (PHOS): 2.50 - 6.80 mg/dl Definition: An indicator on how
the body uses calcium and can be an indicator of kidney problems.
Platelets (PLT): 175 - 500 Definition: Also called a Thrombocyte their
function is to halt bleeding (form blood clots).
Potassium (K): 3.50 - 5.80 mmol/l Definition: Found in cells, it's
main responsibility is to carry different products into and out of
the cells.
Reticuloctyes (Retics): 0 - 0.2% Definition: These are immature red
blood cells.
Sodium (Na): 144.0 - 160.0 mmol/1 Definition: Measures the amount
of sodium in the body and is a indicator of dehydration.
Total Protein (TP): 5.20 - 8.20 g/dl Definition: Consisting of Albumin
and Globulin, this result can also be an indicator of liver and kidney
disease as well as malnutrition and other conditions.
White Blood Count (WBC) : 6.0 - 16.9 Definition: Measures the white
blood cells. White blood cells are the major infection fighting cells
in the blood.
Normal Body Temperature:
The normal body temperature of your dog should range from 101 to 102.5
F. The best way to determine body temperature is rectally. You may
also obtain axillary (between the front leg and the body - e.g.: armpit)
body temperature readings, but this method is not recommended when
an accurate reading is required. You may use a glass mercury or a
digital thermometer. A digital thermometer may be more easily read,
it's safer, and they are relatively inexpensive to purchase. If the
body temperature has exceeded 103 F, contact your vet immediately.
This is especially important if your dog is receiving chemotherapy
as some chemo drugs can lower immunity and leave them susceptible
to infection.
METHOD OF TAKING TEMPERATURE:
When using either a glass or digital thermometer, lubricate the thermometer
with a good water-soluble lubricant such as KY. Slowly and gently
insert the thermometer into the rectum about 1-2 inches. When using
glass, hold in place for 2 minutes; a digital will signal when the
reading is complete.
REFERENCES: Labtests Online, MEDLINE plus
If you would like more detailed, professional information about any
of these tests, please use this link which will bring you to Medline's
website. From there, click on Medical Encyclopedia and type in the
name for the particular test you are seeking information on. Though
geared for humans, it will give you a greater understanding to why
these tests are being done on your pet.
|
