Age and Sex-Dependent Variations in Hematological, Biochemical, and Electrocardiographic Parameters in Beagle Dogs
This study analyzed hematological, biochemical, and electrocardiographic parameters in 436 Beagle dogs (9-84 months old) to establish baseline reference indices by age and sex, and to evaluate the effects of these factors on physiological parameters. Age and sex significantly influence physiological parameters, necessitating comprehensive reference ranges across different age groups and sexes. Blood samples and ECG traces obtained from unanesthetized, nulliparous, and non-pregnant dogs, individually housed in controlled environments, ensured the reflection of actual functional parameters while limiting variability. Significant age-related effects were observed in all hematological parameters except ESR, while sex affected only MCH and RDW. Age-sex interactions significantly influenced several hematological metrics, with the most frequent sex-related differences observed in younger dogs (9-24 and 25-36 months-old age-groups). Biochemical analysis showed significant age effects on glucose, cholesterol, HDL, LDL, AST, ALP, CK, TP, ALB, GLB, CREAT, Phosphorous, electrolytes, GGT and TBL, while sex influenced most parameters except TP, ALB, Urea, Calcium, Phosphorous, Sodium, GGT, and TBL. Electrocardiographic analysis revealed significant age and sex effects on p-wave amplitude and PR interval, respectively, with Fridericia’s formula providing the best correction for QT intervals in comparison to Van de Water’s and Bazett’s formulas. Understanding these variations is essential for accurate clinical assessments, ensuring drug safety, and developing tailored interventions in preclinical research.
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