EN
The aim of the study was to determine the effectiveness of total protein (AFTP), serum-ascites total protein gradient, and serum-ascites albumin gradient (SAAG) determination for the diagnostics of ascites in dogs. The examinations were conducted on 68 dogs of both sexes and different breeds, aged 5 months to 12 years, manifesting signs of ascites. All the animals underwent ECG, abdominal USG, blood testing (total protein, albumin). The concentration of total protein, albumin and leukocyte count was additionally determined in the ascites fluid. On the basis of the obtained results the dogs were divided into 3 groups depending on the disease etiology: group 1 - 38 dogs with the signs of ascites connected with cardiac insufficiency, group 2 - 23 dogs with the signs of ascites connected with neoplastic diseases, group 3 - 7 dogs with the signs of ascites connected with liver parenchyma pathology. The statistical analysis of the obtained results showed statistically significant differences between 3 examined groups in total protein concentration in ascites fluid (p=0.001), serum-ascites total protein gradient (p=0.003) and serum-ascites albumin gradient (p=0.0027). The determination of the serum-ascites total protein gradient and serum-ascites albumin gradient is a useful diagnostic test in the diversification of transudes and exudates. The serum-ascites total protein gradient and serum-ascites albumin gradient is significantly lower in the group of dogs with liver disease than in the group with cardiac insufficiency and neoplastic diseases. The serum-ascites albumin gradient is useful as a marker for portal hypertension.