Avaliação Semiológica e Diagnóstico em Pequenos Animais - Aula 7.1

Summary

This lecture focuses on the semiology and diagnostic approach to the urinary tract in small animals, particularly dogs and cats. It covers the anatomy of the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra, discussing their functions in urine production, filtration, and excretion. The lecture also emphasizes the importance of understanding these structures for diagnosing potential pathologies, including obstructions and infections. Diagnostic methods such as imaging, laboratory tests, and physical examination are explored, alongside challenges in diagnosing and treating urinary issues, especially in male cats due to anatomical differences.

Takeaways

• 😀 The urinary system in small animals consists of the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra.
• 😀 The kidneys filter blood to produce urine, which is stored in the bladder and excreted through the urethra.
• 😀 The kidneys also reabsorb water and essential nutrients to maintain hydration, blood volume, and pressure.
• 😀 The adrenal glands are attached to the kidneys and produce erythropoietin, which stimulates red blood cell production.
• 😀 Ureters transport urine from the kidneys to the bladder, using peristalsis to aid movement and prevent reflux.
• 😀 The bladder is divided into three parts: trigone, body, and apex, and its position changes based on whether it's full or empty.
• 😀 The male urethra also serves as a passage for semen, while in females, the urethra is shorter and more prone to infections.
• 😀 Diagnostic tools like radiographs, ultrasound, and urinalysis are essential for identifying urinary system pathologies.
• 😀 Urinary obstructions, cystitis, and tumors are common pathologies in small animals and can be identified through clinical evaluation.
• 😀 Catheterization and cystocentesis are common methods for collecting urine, with gender differences affecting ease of collection.
• 😀 Male cats, especially obese ones, are more prone to urinary tract obstructions, while females are more prone to urinary infections due to their anatomical structure.

Q & A

What is the main focus of this lecture?

The main focus of this lecture is on the semiology and diagnosis of urinary tract issues in small animals, specifically dogs and cats. It covers the anatomy and function of the urinary system, including the kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra.

What are the two main divisions of the urinary tract in animals?

The two main divisions of the urinary tract in animals are the upper urinary tract, consisting of the kidneys and ureters, and the lower urinary tract, consisting of the bladder and urethra.

How does the kidney contribute to urine production?

The kidneys filter plasma and remove a large amount of fluid, creating an ultrafiltrate. This ultrafiltrate is processed, with most of the water being reabsorbed back into the circulation. The remaining waste is excreted as urine.

What is the significance of reabsorbing water from the ultrafiltrate?

The reabsorption of water from the ultrafiltrate helps maintain plasma volume, oncotic pressure, and hydration in the body. It is essential for regulating fluid balance and preventing dehydration.

What is the role of the adrenal gland in the kidneys?

The adrenal gland, located above the kidneys, produces erythropoietin, a hormone that stimulates the bone marrow to produce red blood cells. This is particularly important in cases of chronic renal insufficiency, where the lack of erythropoietin can lead to anemia.

How is the size of a dog's kidney assessed?

The size of a dog's kidney is assessed through radiographic imaging. The kidney's length can be measured laterally and is usually expressed as a ratio relative to the size of the second lumbar vertebra.

What are the key anatomical structures of the kidney?

The key anatomical structures of the kidney include the cortex, renal columns, renal pyramids, minor and major renal calyces, renal pelvis, and the renal hilus where the ureter connects.

What is the importance of understanding the anatomy of the urinary tract for diagnosis?

Understanding the anatomy of the urinary tract is crucial for diagnosing various pathologies, such as obstructions, infections, and tumors. Knowledge of the anatomical structures helps in accurately interpreting diagnostic images and clinical signs.

Why is it difficult to diagnose issues in the ureter through physical examination?

It is difficult to diagnose issues in the ureter through physical examination because the ureter is a retroperitoneal structure, and palpation is not effective in detecting pathologies in this area. Imaging techniques are typically used for diagnosis.

How does the anatomy of the male and female urethra differ in dogs?

In male dogs, the urethra is longer, narrower, and passes through the os penis, which can complicate the passage of urinary stones. In female dogs, the urethra is shorter and wider, which makes certain conditions like cystitis more common but also facilitates catheterization and urinary stone passage.