Suspected albuterol toxicosis in a dog.
METHODS
A 6-year-old male castrated Shetland Sheepdog was evaluated because of severe hypokalemia and progressive paresis.


RESULTS
Physical examination revealed fever, tachypnea, mydriasis, hyperemic mucous membranes, severe forelimb paresis, and hind limb paraplegia. The dog had superficial and deep pain sensation in all 4 limbs. Forelimb spinal reflexes were considered normal, but hind limb reflexes were normal to slightly hyperreflexive. The panniculus reflex was considered to be normal, and cranial nerve reflexes were intact. A CBC revealed mild leukocytosis and erythrocytosis, and serum biochemical analysis revealed severe hypokalemia. Thoracic and abdominal imaging did not reveal relevant findings. Blood pressure and ECG findings were within reference limits. Questioning of the owner revealed possible exposure to albuterol via ingestion of medication intended for the owner's horse. Results of serum testing via immunoassay were suggestive of albuterol toxicosis.


RESULTS
Treatment included IV administration of an electrolyte solution and supplemental potassium chloride. The rate of potassium chloride supplementation was slowly decreased as serum potassium concentration increased. No other medical intervention was required, and the dog made a rapid and complete recovery.


CONCLUSIONS
Ingestion of albuterol can lead to profound physical and serum biochemical abnormalities. Appropriate historical information should be obtained to identify possible sources and routes of exposure to intoxicants. Albuterol-induced hypokalemia can be successfully managed medically.
McCown
Jennifer L
JL
Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences and the Veterinary Medical Center, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL 32610, USA.
Lechner
Elizabeth S
ES
Cooke
Kirsten L
KL
D000420:Albuterol / Q000506:poisoning*; D000818:Animals; D001774:Blood Chemical Analysis / Q000662:veterinary; D004283:Dog Diseases / Q000139:chemically induced* / Q000188:drug therapy; D004285:Dogs; D007008:Hypokalemia / Q000139:chemically induced / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000662:veterinary*; D007262:Infusions, Intravenous / Q000662:veterinary; D008297:Male; D011189:Potassium Chloride / Q000627:therapeutic use; D016896:Treatment Outcome
D011189:Potassium Chloride; D000420:Albuterol