Hepatic lead and copper concentrations in dogs with chronic hepatitis and their relationship with hematology, serum biochemistry, and histopathology

Background Although the influence of copper ([Cu]) on chronic hepatitis (CH) has been widely studied in dogs, little information is available about the accumulation of other metals. Hypothesis/Objectives We assessed the concentration of lead ([Pb]) in the livers of dogs with CH with or without abnormal hepatic [Cu] to establish if any association existed between [Pb] and either hematologic or biochemical variables, fibrosis, necrosis and inflammation of the liver on histology. Animals Thirty‐four dogs with CH that had hepatic [Cu] and [Pb] determined. Methods Retrospective review of medical records of dogs with CH and hepatic [Cu] and [Pb]. Chronic hepatitis was defined using current American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine consensus statement guidelines. Hepatic [Cu] and [Pb] were determined using square wave anodic stripping voltammetry. Dogs were divided into 2 groups based on [Cu]: