Comparative Evaluation of C-Reactive Protein, Albumin, and the C-Reactive Protein/Albumin Ratio in Puppies With Acute Diarrhea of Different Etiologies.

BACKGROUND

Diarrhea is classified as acute, prolonged, or chronic; acute diarrhea (AD) commonly prompts veterinary visits. Identifying causative agents and inflammation severity in the lab is crucial for treatment and prognosis.

OBJECTIVES

To assess changes in C-reactive protein (CRP), albumin, and C-reactive protein/Albumin ratio (CAR) in dogs with AD from various etiologies and to assess whether they can be used to discriminate between different etiologies.

METHODS

Of 92 dogs with AD, 55 were included based on anamnesis, physical, and laboratory analyses. Dogs were classified into Isospora (n = 12), Parvovirus (n = 15), and Toxocara (n = 14) groups based on microscopic fecal examination and rapid diagnostic tests. The Nutritional group (n = 14) included dogs negative for infectious and parasitic agents but with mild leukocytosis and recent dietary changes. The Control group comprised 10 clinically healthy dogs.

RESULTS

Albumin levels were significantly lower in the Isospora, Parvovirus, and Toxocara groups than in the Control and Nutritional groups (p < 0.0001). CRP and CAR levels were highest in the Parvovirus group, with CAR differing significantly from the Control, Isospora, and Nutritional groups (p < 0.0001), but not from Toxocara.

CONCLUSIONS

The study shows infections, particularly Parvovirus, reduce albumin and elevate inflammatory markers (CRP, CAR), indicating severe disease, while the Nutritional group mirrors the healthy Control group with lower inflammation. These findings suggest that monitoring these parameters may offer valuable insights into inflammation severity and inform future studies aimed at evaluating their prognostic utility, thereby supporting clinical decision-making in practice.