[christiers]

Originally Posted by Ellie May

http://www.yorkietalk.com/forums/sic...me-advice.html

Page 9, post 127 for results.

Not common in dogs and weight loss would be likely.

It is just one possible thing that could cause bile acids to elevate (and possibly look like MVD). But as I said, I would not jump to biopsy with a Yorkie who had moderately elevated bile acids. Ellie had one b/c she was under already and her abdomen was open. When dealing with an asymptomatic dog or a dog with symptoms that are usually seem with MVD, then a biopsy definitely is questionable at best. It is just that there are a few occasions when it may be a good idea.

And it is a bit concerning to think that the high BA in this case was not MVD although it may have looked similar. So if a low protein diet would have been chosen, that may not have been in Lacy's best interest either. So just sayin' there are always exceptions to the rule and it can be a hard decision.

to the OP: I'd be very concerned if a vet wanted to use anesthesia for a regular u/s!!!

like i said, i didn't feel comfortable there. and Coco had been on a low protein diet since Oct and denamarin since last July and her post bat almost tripled and she had had her first elevated pre bat. deciding to do the biopsy was a struggle, but i had 2 different opinions from 3 sources-1 of which i have dealt with for over 9 years and the other 2 came highly recommended. i was being told to resume normal life and carry on, nothing was wrong with her....then my vet feeling she may have a shunt. being left under the impression that the biopsy or ultrasound (not completely clear what U Penn meant) would require anesthesia, we choose what we felt would provide us the most definite answer. how do you determine it if was right or wrong to do? how much could i have hurt her feeding her incorrectly....i mean 6 months worth of damage would be significant i think.

so right or wrong, we felt this an exception, did the biopsy and we're glad we did. there is a definite answer. not having a baby with mvd before and losing one to a shunt, i can make an informed course of action and provide her with the best possible life with the help of the new support systems this has lead me to utilize and find. so even if a biopsy was a bad decision, it can't be entirely bad if the results improve her life going forward. just my opinion and feelings.

thank you everyone for all your shared information, i am certain you can expect future questions from me going forward. everyone has been so helpful and kind in sharing their experiences, information, and resources.