Study Start Date: 7/01/2006
Study End Date: 12/31/2007

Evaluation of an alternative method for dissolving infection-induced struvite stones in dogs

We are looking for otherwise healthy dogs that are currently affected with presumed pure infection-induced struvite bladder uroliths. This study is evaluating an alternative drug therapy to dissolve these uroliths without changing the diet. Dogs are evaluated monthly by collecting urine and blood samples and taking abdominal radiographs to monitor urolitholysis. All costs are covered by the project including bladder surgery if the uroliths do not dissolve.

Study Design:
Prospective Trial - uncontrolled.

Sample Size:
10 dogs

Inclusion criteria:

1. Proven or presumed infection-induced struvite bladder stones (based on urine pH, crystalluria, radiographic appearance, and positive urine culture with urease-producing bacteria, if possible).
2. Ability of owner to drop dog off every 4 weeks for evaluation.
3. The investigators prefer to evaluate dogs at The University of Tennessee if at all possible; however, dogs can be managed and evaluated at the primary veterinarian's clinic if travel or distance is a problem. Please contact the PI to discuss details if you are considering this option.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Dogs with bladder stones proven or presumed to not be composed of 100% struvite (e.g. calcium oxalate or mixed stone of calcium oxalate and struvite).
2. Dogs in renal failure.
3. Dogs that cannot tolerate drug.

Study Controls:
The study is uncontrolled.

Samples:
Blood and urine will need to be submitted. Dr Bartges will provide tubes - 2-3 ml in an EDTA (purple top) tube, 2-3 ml in a heparinized (green top) tube. 6 ml of urine - 5 ml in a conical tube for urinalysis and 1 ml in a clot (red top) tube for culture.

Costs/Reimbursements:
Shipping costs for samples and radiographs will be reimbursed to the veterinarian. Costs of evaluations are paid for by study. If cystotomy is necessary, costs of surgery are paid for by study.

Sample Submission Info:
Please contact Dr Bartges to arrange for shipping of samples and radiographs (see below).

Full Disclosure information:

• The study is funded by a grant from Lloyd, Inc.
• The investigator has presented Pet-food-company-sponsored lecture on urolithiasis.
• The study will be published if results are negative.
• The study will be reported on VIN.
• The authors will acknowledge VIN if the study is published.