Diagnostic Procedures

Laboratory Diagnostic Services

Because pets cannot describe symptoms to let us know what might be wrong, veterinarians rely on blood tests to give us answers.  Blood chemistry tests provide an inside look at a pet's vital organs.  The function of the liver and kidneys is especially important because these organs process and rid the body of potential toxic substances.  Hematology tests provide an inside look at the blood itself.  Red blood cells carry oxygen to the tissues; white blood cells fight infection; platelets play an important role in blood clotting.  Other tests are available to evaluate specific organs such as the thyroid gland and the adrenal gland.

Another aspect of laboratory diagnostic services is the evaluation of unusual masses by cytology or biopsy.  Cytology samples can be obtained by inserting a needle into the mass to collect some of the cells for microscopic examination.  A biopsy involves collecting a larger piece of tissue for microscopic examination.

Radiology

Members of the Call Group provide diagnostic X-ray services as part of the diagnostic work-ups when necessary.  Radiology enables evaluation of internal structures including the skeletal system and internal organs such as liver, spleen, heart, lungs, kidneys.  The diagnostic technique can contribute to the diagnosis of heart and lung conditions, abnormal internal masses and fractures of bones to name only a few.  Hip dysplasia, an arthritic condition of the hips arising from poor hip conformation, can be screened using radiographs.  Standardized X-ray views of hips are evaluated by a panel of Orthropedic Foundation for Animals radiologists.  Evaluation of these X-rays will determine whether or not an individual dog may be desirable for breeding.  This process will eliminate less than acceptable individuals from contributing to the breed gene pool.  Similar assessments can be made of elbows.  Often radiology is used in conjunction with other diagnostic tools such as electrocardiogram (ECG) or ultrasound to give a more complete diagnostic evaluation of a condition.

Ultrasound

An ultrasound examination is an imaging technique that allows internal body structures to be seen by recording echoes of ultrasonic waves.  Ultrasound waves are considered to be entirely safe.  This technique is invaluable for the examination of internal organs such as the heart, liver, spleen and pregnant uterus.  Ultrasonography is very useful in the diagnosis of cysts and cancers.  The technique is non-invasive but does involve clipping an area of hair and applying a water-soluble jelly on the skin.