Evaluation of the frequency of fasting and postprandial hyperlipidemia in healthy Schnauzers and of hepatic changes and insulin resistance in hyperlipidemic Schnauzers

Abstract

Hyperlipidemia in dogs can be primary or secondary. Secondary hyperlipidemia is the most frequent form, and it is associated to endocrine disorders, obesity, and glucocorticoid therapy. Primary hypertriglyceridemia of Miniature Schnauzers is a well-known condition and may predispose to the development of pancreatitis, diabetes, liver and neurological disorders. The goal of this study was to identify the prevalence of hyperlipidemia in 55 asymptomatic Miniature Schnauzers, and the frequency of hepatic changes and insulin resistance in hyperlipidemic dogs. Of the 55 dogs in the study, 56.4% had primary hyperlipidemia. In 23.6% of these cases, the hyperlipidemia was characterized by isolated hypertriglyceridemia, while isolated hypercholesterolemia was present in 20% of the cases. Mixed hyperlipidemia was observed in 12.7% of hyperlipidemic dogs. Hypertriglyceridemia was considered mild in 21/8% of the cases, and moderate to severe in 14.5% of them. Serum ALT was elevated in 32.3% of hyperlipidemic dogs and serum AF was elevated in 38.7% of the cases. Insulin resistance was observed in 90.3% of hyperlipidemic dogs. Given the high prevalence of hyperlipidemia in our sample, and the observed metabolic changes in hyperlipidemic dogs, we suggest that all Miniature Schnauzers are screened for hyperlipidemia as an aid to early diagnosis of this disorder and prevention of complications.