Quote:
Originally Posted by KaylaNPixie  Pixie's bile acid test came back. It reads resting bile acids at 118.7 and post prandial at 6.4. Our vet referred us to UC Davis where they would do a liver imaging with an approx cost of $700 (incl exam, hospital fee). If surgery is necessary, it would cost $3,000. It's now taking 1 1/2 weeks to get an appt with UC Davis. We are so devastated! We love Pixie and we are very concerned right now for her health! |
HOLD ON a moment.....Breath
Yes that post # of 118.7 is high, but it doesn't mean a definite Liver Shunt. She could have MVD.
I suggest FIRST doing a Protein C test. This is a simple blood test. Costs about $80 to $100 from your General Vet. However, YOUR Vet has to contact Cornell University to get the tubes. And the blood draw has to be overnighted to Cornell. Results come back within a few days.
A Protein C test is a pretty indicator of Liver Shunt.
It reads in %
Below 80% is pretty accurate for a Liver Shunt
Above 80% is either MVD or Normal (can't really distinguish between them)
An Ultrasound is good and bad. #1 it is only about 60-80% accurate is seeing a shunt. You won't see MVD though. It is good to see the size and shape of organs, and if there are any stones present.
My advice is to do the Protein C test and go from there.
NYS Animal Health Diagnostic Center at the Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine