Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Insulin drip helped a 3-day-old alpaca cria with high blood sugar
By Buchheit, Teresa M et al.·Published in Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association·2010·Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, United States·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: Use of a constant rate infusion of insulin for the treatment of hyperglycemic, hypernatremic, hyperosmolar syndrome in an alpaca cria.
Plain-English summary
A 3-day-old female alpaca cria was brought in because she was lethargic and not eating. During the exam, the vet noticed she had a high temperature, muscle twitching, and even had seizures, which indicated serious brain issues. She was diagnosed with hyperosmolar syndrome, a condition where there are very high levels of sugar and sodium in the blood. The vet treated her with a steady infusion of insulin and special fluids, which successfully lowered her blood sugar and sodium levels. After 11 days of treatment, the cria recovered and was able to go home.
People also search for: alpaca cria seizures · hyperosmolar syndrome treatment in alpacas · insulin treatment for high blood sugar in newborns
Abstract
CASE DESCRIPTION: A 3-day-old 9.5-kg (21-lb) female alpaca cria was examined because of lethargy and anorexia. CLINICAL FINDINGS: Physical examination revealed hyperthermia, muscle fasciculations, and tremors of the head. Seizures were also observed, which indicated CNS dysfunction. Hyperosmolar syndrome (HOS) was diagnosed on the basis of hyperglycemia, hypernatremia, azotemia, high plasma osmolarity, and metabolic acidosis. TREATMENT AND OUTCOME: A constant rate infusion of regular insulin was administered with hypo-osmolar fluids to treat HOS, and blood glucose and sodium concentrations were successfully lowered. Neurologic deficits resolved with treatment, and the cria was discharged 11 days after admission. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Administration of insulin as a bolus in addition to hypo-osmolar fluids has been advocated in the management of neonatal camelids with HOS. Administration of regular insulin via a constant rate IV infusion was used to successfully manage a neonatal camelid with HOS. This form of insulin administration may allow more control of glucose kinetics in these patients.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20187822/