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Originally Posted by bellasmomok  Correct me if I'm wrong, but I've had several vets tell me that getting a size on liver won't do much good unless you do it serially. What I was told was that especially for small dogs who have an ultrasound, they almost all have a "small liver" because there are way too many dog sizes and breeds to have a good range of normal for each dog. There are 2 lb and nearly 20 lb Yorkies, so that already has me questioning even using a "breed" guideline for normal. HOWEVER, I have been told (since that is what I do for a living anyway...for people) that I could certainly measure her liver over time and we would be able to have a clearer picture of whether her liver cells are dying (which would cause it to shrink--high ALT is found in puppies but can also indicate liver cell death, so that was why I was told that.)
I'm glad they didn't see a shunt (even though that doesn't necessarily mean she that doesn't have one)....that's a good step!
I'll look forward to keeping up on your baby....don't forget to keep us posted!
Tara |
I wondered the same thing, "small, compared to what". Tiki is 7# but skinny because she is tall and long.
Complete comments about kidneys were small in size (3.2-3.7 cm in length, saggital plane), normal in shape, with good corticomedullary definition. The mesenteric lymph nodes were moderately enlarged and hyperechoic. Of course I do not understand any of that, but you probably do.
Like you with Bella, I have relaxed somewhat, feeling that this is not an emergency situation, and is something we will deal with over time.
Probably my next big decision will be whether or not to go ahead with spay & liver biopsy. Tiki is 8 months old now, and I can't believe she hasn't come in heat yet. I'm feeling extra cautious now, and am sort of thinking I'd rather let her go thru a heat and continue her diet and supplements in hopes that her liver will be better able to handle surgery, anethesia & meds in a few months. In the grand scheme of things, I'm wanting to enjoy her as she is for a while without further risk of complications. We'll see what the vet suggests tomorrow, but I'm not up to more drama right now.
We appreciate your continued support, and will have more news tomorrow.
Sandy