The effects of 10% hypertonic saline, 0.9% saline and hydroxy ethyl starch infusions on hydro-electrolyte status and adrenal function in healthy conscious dogs

The purpose of this study was to investigate the influence of different saline and colloid solutions on adrenal steroid secretion in dogs. Six healthy male Beagles underwent three infusion cycles: 10 min infusion of 30 ml/kg of NaCl 0.9%, 5 ml/kg of hydroxy ethyl starch, or 5 ml/kg of NaCl 10%. Plasma osmolality, hematocrit, total solids, cortisol and aldosterone levels were measured at 0, 5, 15, 30, 60, 120, 180 and 240 min after beginning infusion. Plasma ACTH levels were measured at 0, 15 and 240 min. An identical timing of sampling was applied during a control session omitting the fluid infusion. Osmolality, sodium, chloride and cortisol levels were found to be significantly higher with hypertonic saline solute compared to control. All fluid infusions lead to lowered plasma potassium, hematocrit, total solids and aldosterone values. ACTH concentrations did not show significant changes with any of the infusion cycles. The increase in cortisol levels suggests that hypertonic saline infusion could be interesting in critical care resuscitation, particularly in patients who are suffering from relative adrenal insufficiency.