AAVSB Clinical Pathology and Laboratory Diagnostics

Question 1

Which complete blood count (CBC) finding is most consistent with a regenerative anemia in a dog?

Accepted Answer

Increased reticulocyte count with polychromasia

Answer

Regenerative anemia is characterized by an elevated reticulocyte count and polychromasia on blood smear, indicating active bone marrow response.

Question 2

A feline patient has a serum total bilirubin of 5.2 mg/dL with elevated ALT and ALP. What condition is most likely?

Accepted Answer

Hepatic jaundice from liver disease

Answer

Elevated liver enzymes (ALT, ALP) alongside hyperbilirubinemia point to a hepatic origin, consistent with primary liver disease.

Question 3

Which urine specific gravity range indicates isosthenuria in dogs and cats?

Accepted Answer

1.008–1.012

Answer

Isosthenuria (1.008–1.012) indicates the kidney cannot concentrate or dilute urine, suggesting loss of tubular function.

Question 4

A blood smear from a horse reveals numerous large granular lymphocytes. Which test should be prioritized?

Accepted Answer

Bone marrow biopsy

Answer

Persistent large granular lymphocytosis in horses may indicate lymphoma, making bone marrow evaluation a priority to assess neoplastic infiltration.

Question 5

What does a positive nitrite dipstick finding on urinalysis indicate?

Accepted Answer

Presence of nitrate-reducing bacteria

Answer

A positive nitrite reaction indicates that nitrate-reducing bacteria (typically gram-negative) are present, suggesting urinary tract infection.

AAVSB - American Association of Veterinary State Boards Practice Test