Zinc-induced hemolytic anemia caused by ingestion of pennies by a pup.
A 4-month-old Pomeranian pup was examined because of anorexia, salivation, and persistent vomiting. Initial laboratory testing revealed marked hemolytic anemia with spherocytosis. Survey abdominal radiography revealed 4 metal objects which, when removed by gastrotomy, were identified as pennies. Of 4 pennies, 3 were minted since 1983 and were heavily pitted over the surface and rim. Partially digested pennies were composed of a copper-plated high zinc concentration alloy. Further laboratory testing indicated a marked increase in serum zinc concentration in the pup (28.8 mg/L), confirming metal toxicosis. Serum zinc concentrations decreased during recovery.
Department of Veterinary Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Georgia, Athens 30602.
K S
KS
Latimer
A V
AV
Jain
H B
HB
Inglesby
W D
WD
Clarkson
G B
GB
Johnson
D000743:Anemia, Hemolytic / Q000139:chemically induced / Q000662:veterinary*; D000818:Animals; D003300:Copper / Q000097:blood; D004283:Dog Diseases / Q000139:chemically induced*; D004285:Dogs; D005260:Female; D005547:Foreign Bodies / Q000662:veterinary*; D015032:Zinc / Q000097:blood / Q000506:poisoning*
D003300:Copper; D015032:Zinc