Publications by authors named "Kathleen M Aicher"

Background: Gallbladder disease in people is frequently associated with disorders of lipid metabolism and metabolic syndrome. A recently emergent gallbladder disease of dogs, referred to as mucocele formation, is characterized by secretion of abnormal mucus by the gallbladder epithelium and is similarly associated with hyperlipidemia, endocrinopathy, and metabolic dysfunction. The cause of gallbladder mucocele formation in dogs is unknown.

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To date studies have not investigated the culture-independent microbiome of bile from dogs, a species where aseptic collection of bile under ultrasound guidance is somewhat routine. Despite frequent collection of bile for culture-based diagnosis of bacterial cholecystitis, it is unknown whether bile from healthy dogs harbors uncultivable bacteria or a core microbiota. The answer to this question is critical to understanding the pathogenesis of biliary infection and as a baseline to exploration of other biliary diseases in dogs where uncultivable bacteria could play a pathogenic role.

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Serum bile acids concentrations rise postprandially. However, some dogs show paradoxical serum bile acids results with higher pre-prandial than post-prandial concentrations. The aim of this study was to evaluate serum cholecystokinin (CCK) concentrations and determine whether they correspond to paradoxical serum bile acids concentrations.

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Background: Proteinuria is an independent risk factor for morbidity and mortality in dogs. An association between proteinuria and gallbladder mucocele formation in dogs is unknown.

Objective: Determine if gallbladder mucocele formation or clinicopathologic comorbidities are associated with proteinuria.

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Article Synopsis
  • * There is a noted correlation between gallbladder mucocele formation and conditions like hyperadrenocorticism, hypothyroidism, and hyperlipidemia, but the exact relationship and cause remain unclear.
  • * Research indicates that dogs with this condition exhibit abnormal adrenal hormone responses, suggesting possible endocrine dysfunction, prompting further investigation into the underlying mechanisms of the disease.
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