This article is an invited review on the clinical pathology of Greyhounds and other sighthounds. The authors discuss the unique physiological adaptations that Greyhounds have acquired as racing sight-hounds, which distinguish them from other breeds. They emphasize the importance of understanding the hematologic and biochemical characteristics of Greyhounds in order to provide appropriate medical care.
The article begins by highlighting the increasing number of retired racing Greyhounds being placed in adoptive homes, leading to more frequent visits to veterinarians and an increase in samples being sent to clinical pathology laboratories. The authors stress the need for veterinarians and clinical pathologists to be aware of the unique hematologic and biochemical characteristics of Greyhounds.
The article then provides a survey of the literature on the clinical pathology of Greyhounds and other sighthounds, focusing on laboratory testing conducted at The Ohio State University. The authors discuss various aspects of clinical pathology, including hematology, hemostasis, and clinical chemistry.
In terms of hematology, Greyhounds have higher values for PCV/HCT, RBC count, and hemoglobin concentration compared to other breeds. On the other hand, they have lower values for WBC count, neutrophil count, and platelet count. These hematologic differences have also been observed in other sighthound breeds.
In terms of hemostasis, Greyhounds have lower values for thromboelastographic values and fibrinogen. They also have unique features such as non-staining eosinophil granules and higher frequency of MCV*.
In terms of clinical chemistry, Greyhounds have higher values for creatinine, glomerular filtration rate, and activities of hepatic enzymes. They have lower values for potassium, phosphate calcium, ionized, and serum total protein. Greyhounds also have unique features such as higher concentrations of cardiac troponin and lower concentrations of serum haptoglobin, total globulins, and T4.
The article concludes by emphasizing the importance of establishing reference intervals specific to Greyhound dogs, which may also apply to other sighthound breeds. Overall, this review provides valuable information on the clinical pathology of Greyhounds and other sighthounds, highlighting the need for veterinarians and clinical pathologists to be knowledgeable about the unique characteristics of these breeds in order to provide optimal care.