ICVA Canine Internal Medicine 2

Question 1

A 7-year-old Labrador presents with polyuria, polydipsia, and a pendulous abdomen. Bloodwork shows elevated ALP and a stress leukogram. Which test best differentiates pituitary-dependent hyperadrenocorticism from adrenal-dependent hyperadrenocorticism?

Accepted Answer

High-dose dexamethasone suppression test

Answer

The high-dose dexamethasone suppression test differentiates PDH (suppresses) from ADH (fails to suppress) in dogs with confirmed hyperadrenocorticism.

Question 2

A dog with immune-mediated hemolytic anemia (IMHA) has a PCV of 14%. Which finding on blood smear is most consistent with regenerative anemia?

Accepted Answer

Polychromasia and reticulocytosis

Answer

Polychromasia and reticulocytosis indicate active bone marrow regeneration in response to anemia.

Question 3

Which electrocardiographic finding is most characteristic of hyperkalemia in a dog?

Accepted Answer

Peaked T waves and widened QRS complexes

Answer

Hyperkalemia causes peaked T waves, widened QRS, and eventually sinoventricular rhythm as potassium rises.

Question 4

A 5-year-old Golden Retriever presents with ascites. Abdominal fluid analysis shows a total protein of 1.8 g/dL and cell count of 300 cells/µL. This fluid is best classified as:

Accepted Answer

Pure transudate

Answer

A pure transudate has low protein (<2.5 g/dL) and low cell count (<1500 cells/µL), typically caused by hypoalbuminemia or portal hypertension.

Question 5

Which hepatic enzyme is most specific for hepatocellular damage (rather than cholestasis) in dogs?

Accepted Answer

Alanine aminotransferase (ALT)

Answer

ALT is a cytosolic enzyme most specific for hepatocyte damage in dogs, while ALP and GGT primarily reflect cholestasis or induction.

(ICVA) International Council for Veterinary Assessment Practice Test

(ICVA) International Council for Veterinary Assessment Practice Test

ICVA Canine Internal Medicine 2