Iron status and C‐reactive protein in canine leishmaniasis. (27th December 2013) - Silvestrini, P.
Abstract OBJECTIVE To investigate the iron status, its relationship with C‐reactive protein and the prognostic value of both in canine leishmaniasis. METHOD Eighty‐six dogs with leishmaniasis and two control groups (healthy dogs and dogs with diseases other than leishmaniasis) were selected. Iron status indicators and C‐reactive protein were compared between the three groups. Correlations between C‐reactive protein and iron, ferritin and total iron‐binding capacity were evaluated in dogs with leishmaniasis. Iron, total iron‐binding capacity and ferritin were compared between dogs stratified according to similar C‐reactive protein concentrations. The mortality rate at 30 days post‐diagnosis was compared between groups. Iron status indicators and C‐reactive protein were compared between survivors and non‐survivors. RESULTS Dogs with leishmaniasis had lower iron and total iron‐binding capacity and higher ferritin and C‐reactive protein. There was a significant but low correlation of C‐reactive protein with iron, ferritin and total iron‐binding capacity. Dogs with leishmaniasis had decreased iron and total iron‐binding capacity and increased ferritin compared to other ill patients with similar C‐reactive protein concentrations. Mortality was not significantly different between groups but non‐survivor dogs with leishmaniasis had higher C‐reactive protein and lower total iron‐binding capacity. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE Inflammation contributes to the iron status alterations found in canine leishmaniasis but other mechanisms are likely involved. Low total iron‐binding capacity and increased C‐reactive protein are risk factors for outcome in canine leishmaniasis.