INTOXICATION BY ETHYLENE-GLYCOL IN THE DOG - DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT

Ethylene glycol is the origin of intoxications which occur at a low frequency but consistently depending on the country and year. The diagnosis of intoxication is based first of all on epidemiological investigations (ethylene glycol is mainly used as an antigel additive in water of numerous cooling systems). Secondly, on a relatively specific sequence of clinical signs, with vomiting associated with encephalopathy, followed after a period of respite, by signs of renal failure. Thirdly, on laboratory analyses aimed at detecting either the toxin or its metabolites, or even its metabolic effects on the blood and/or urine. Treatment by a specific therapeutic is effective if applied very quickly after the ingestion of this toxic product and is designed to prevent the metabolic toxification of the liver. In practice there are two treatments. The first uses the i.v. administration of ethanol, which is easily available but possesses non negligible toxic properties. The second the i.v. injection of methyl-4pyrazole, which is more effective and less toxic but not readily available from human anti-poison centres found in hospitals.