Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment of Chronic Glomerulonephritis in Dogs

Chronic glomerulonephritis, abbreviated as chronic nephritis, refers to diffuse inflammation of the glomeruli. It is a chronic kidney disease in which the renal tubules undergo degeneration and the renal interstitium undergoes cell infiltration and connective tissue proliferation.

[Causes] The causes of chronic nephritis are the same as those of acute nephritis. However, the stimulation by the pathogen is mild and lasts for a longer period. In addition, some cases of acute nephritis that are not completely controlled may turn into chronic nephritis.

[Symptoms] Chronic glomerulonephritis develops slowly, and the clinical manifestations are mild. The affected dog may be seen gradually losing weight. In the early stage, thirst increases, and compensatory polyuria can reach 2 times the usual amount. In the later stage, symptoms such as edema, oliguria, uremia, and general exhaustion may be seen. The course of the disease is relatively long, and some dogs may have repeated episodes, with clinical symptoms such as progressive weight loss and anemia.

[Diagnosis] A definitive diagnosis can be made based on the course of the disease, clinical symptoms, and urine examination.

During the attack stage of chronic nephritis, protein in the urine is markedly increased; in the later stage, protein decreases. A large number of hyaline casts can be seen in the urine sediment.

[Treatment] Chronic nephritis is relatively difficult to cure. The treatment method is the same as that for acute glomerulonephritis.