Paraclinical assessment of biochemical and hormonal alterations in canine caloric stroke

Caloric shock is a severe medical emergency with major systemic effects, occurring when the body fails to maintain thermal balance after prolonged exposure to high temperatures. This comparative study investigated the biochemical and hormonal changes in dogs diagnosed with caloric shock, compared to a healthy control group. Paraclinical exams, including the determination of transaminase levels, proteins, electrolytes, glucose, triglycerides, cortisol and thyroid hormones, revealed significant increases in parameters such as ALT, AST, alkaline phosphatase and GGT, indicating hepatic and pancreatic dysfunction. Additionally, cortisol levels were significantly elevated, reflecting the hormonal response to severe thermal stress. In contrast, T3 levels were significantly reduced, suggesting inhibition of thyroid function. These results emphasize the importance of biochemical and hormonal investigations in diagnosing and managing caloric shock in dogs, enabling the establishment of rapid and personalized therapeutic interventions.