Introduction Zinc toxicosis is commonly associated with ingestion of metallic zinc objects. This report documents an uncommon presentation of zinc toxicosis, secondary to prolonged ingestion of a zinc oxide cream.
Case study A 5.6 kg 6-year-old ovariohysterectomised female Poodle cross presented as a transfer to an emergency practice for severe anaemia, pigmenturia, weakness, and inappetence. She had a history of vomiting and nine days of diarrhoea. Amongst other supportive treatments, a zinc oxide cream had been applied to her hind end due to severe diarrhoea scalding, and in hindsight, the owners realised she had been ingested large quantities of this cream. She developed a severe Heinz body haemolytic anaemia, along with spherocytosis, left-shift neutrophilia, prolonged activated partial thromboplastin time, and mildly elevated blood urea nitrogen. The serum zinc concentration was markedly elevated. She was treated supportively and made a full recovery.
Discussion This case illustrated the importance of a thorough medical history. Zinc toxicosis can have a good prognosis when diagnosed and treated promptly.
Key words: canine; haemolytic anaemia; Heinz bodies; zinc; toxicosis
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