Resolution of a lingual necrosis for canine leptospirosis

Abstract

The present study describes the clinical resolution of a tongue necrosis associated whit an acute renal failure due to leptospirosis. A 4 year old male Boston terrier canine was present with a tongue that showed changes of color, consistency, sensibility and lack of pulse. Regarding the renal profile urea (183 mg/ dl) and creatinine (1,8 mg/dl), values were increased and micro agglutination technique gave titers 1/3200 of Leptospira interrogans serovars, Ballum castellonis y Canicola canicola. Increased antibody titles and clinical manifestations, confirmed the diagnosis of acute kidney damage. The treatment began with fluid therapy using Ringer lactato and dextrose 5%. As leptospirosis was possible, antibiotic treatment was applied (penicillin combined with estreptomicina). Once the patient was stable, partial glosectomy was realized. Nevertheless, necrosis continued, so it was decided to use 1 mg/kg of dexametasona parenteraly during three days an then a lower dosis. Eight days later, the patient was recovered, although isostenuric urine density continued, urea (87 mg/dl) and creatinine (0,8 mg/dl) values decreased and the patient was stable. Despite corticosteroids are not recommended in acute renal failure in this case were used to control vasculitis. Considering the immune origin of vascular injury, treating the initial cause isn´t enough, reason why immunosuppressive drugs are recommended.