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Introduction
Toxicity is due to the presence of methylxanthines such as theobromine and caffeine in chocolate.[1]
Signalment
Dog that live indoors are more likely to have access to chocolate.[2]
Diagnosis
Clinical Signs
Chocolate poisoning results in CNS, gastrointestinal, cardiovascular and urological signs.[2], Cite error: Closing </ref> missing for <ref> tag
- CNS: hyperexcitability, hyperactivity, ataxia initially can evolve into muscle tremors, clonic seizures and hyperthermia.[2], [1]
- Gastrointestinal: diarrhoea, emesis, haematemesis, colic.[2], [1]
- Cardiovascular: arrhythmias,infrequently bradycardia but usually tachycardia.[2], [1]
- Urological: polydypsia and polyuria may also be present [2]
Laboratory Tests
Diagnosis is usually on the basis of clinical signs and a known history of chocolate ingestion. The following laboratory tests are possible but not commonly used;
- Detection of methylxanthines in bodily fluids such as plasma, urine and stomach contents [2].
- Blood Glucose: Hypoglycaemia as a consequence of hyperactivity. not seen consistently with chocolate poisoning [2].
- Urinalysis: Proteinuria, low specific gravity; not seen consistently with chocolate poisoning [2].
Pathology
The methylxanthines yield their effects through
- Antagonism of Adenosine Receptors:[1] this antagonism results in stimulation of the central nervous system, vasoconstriction and increase in heart rate [2] and also diureses [2]
- Inhibition of Cyclic Nucleotide Phosphodiesterase:[1] consequently there is an increase in cyclic AMP, which in turn leads to greater catecholamine release and its effects [2].
- Modulate Intracellular Calcium Concentrations:Enhanced uptake and decreased sequestration within the cell leads to amplification of intracellular calcium levels in cardiac and skeletal muscle, the net result of which is a positive inotropic effect on these muscles. [2].
Treatment
Prognosis
References
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4 1.5 BSAVA Manual of Canine and Feline Emergency and Critical CareSecond Edition,2007 Cite error: Invalid
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