Comprehensive study of haemato-biochemical, ascitic fluid analysis and ultrasonography in the diagnosis of ascites due to hepatobiliary disorders in dog

Two percent of the dogs with ascites of hepatic insufficiency were recorded. Decline in the values of Hb, PCV, RBCs and increased TLC and prothrombin time were recorded. Hypoproteinemia, hypoalbuminemia with elevated bilirubin and liver enzymes were observed. Abdominal ultrasound revealed anechoic structure with focal and diffused hyper echoic, cirrhosis of liver and gall bladder disorders were recorded. Ascitic fluid was clear/transudate with a few mesothelial cells, lymphocytes, monocytes and neutrophils in most of the ascitic dogs. Decreased serum total protein, albumin and elevated serum ALT, AST, ALP, total bilirubin, prolonged prothrombin time and SAAG was good indicator for diagnosis of ascites due to HBD. Ascitic fluid analysis and serum ascites albumin gradient (SAAG) may be a key indicator for diagnose etiopathogenesis of ascites in dog.