Primary hypoparathyroidism in a dog: a case report

Primary hypoparathyroidism is a rare metabolic condition that can affect domestic animals. The resulting hypocalcemia and hyperphosphatemia can lead to neurological and respiratory changes, as well as cardiac arrhythmias. The aim of the present study is to report the occurrence of primary hypoparathyroidism in a dog and describe the clinical and diagnostic aspects. A 7-year-old male dog with convulsive seizures and spastic limb paralysis was attended to in the municipality of Resende-RJ. After previous therapy with no response to phenobarbital use, serum PTH and ionized calcium levels were measured, revealing a decrease in both. Therapeutic response was observed with the use of calcium gluconate and balancing of circulating potassium via ion channels. Clinical signs characterized by excitability, seizures, muscle fasciculations, and muscular tetany point to a thorough investigation of possible differential diagnoses of calcium disorders. Studies involving the etiological and pathophysiological mechanisms of primary hypoparathyroidism should be encouraged to suggest early therapeutic protocols.