N-Terminal Pro-brain Natriuretic Peptide as Predictive Cardiac Biomarker in Adult Dogs

Abstract

Background: Cardiac diseases, particularly in dogs, account for approximately 10% of cases presented to veterinary clinics, significantly contributing to morbidity and mortality, often through heart failure (Braunwald, 2008). Mitral regurgitation from chronic mitral valve disease (CMVD) and dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) are the leading causes of heart failure in dogs. Aim: This study aimed to evaluate the suitability of NT-proBNP as a predictive cardiac biomarker in dogs, alongside hematological, biochemical, and cardiac parameters in dogs diagnosed with Degenerative Mitral Valve Disease (DMVD) and Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM). Place and Duration of Study: Department of Veterinary Physiology, College of Veterinary Science, Rajendranagar, in collaboration with the Department of Veterinary Medicine, College of Veterinary Science, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad. Methodology: Six affected dogs from three age groups (<5, 5-10, >10 years) and 18 healthy controls were assessed using physical examination, ECG, radiography, and echocardiography. Results: DMVD dogs showed increased LA/Ao ratios and mitral valve degeneration, while DCM dogs exhibited left ventricular dilation and reduced systolic function. Vertebral Heart Score (VHS) was significantly higher in both disease groups, indicating cardiac enlargement. Hematological findings revealed elevated hemoglobin (HB) and reduced platelet counts in DCM dogs. Biochemical changes included elevated ALT, AST, cholesterol, creatinine, BUN, and phosphorus, indicating liver and renal disturbances. Protein and globulin levels were significantly lower in both DMVD and DCM groups, with the most marked reductions in younger DCM dogs. Conclusion: The study highlights NT-proBNP’s diagnostic utility as a highly valuable biomarker for detecting and assessing heart failure in dogs, particularly in DCM cases.