Evaluation of cardiac troponin I (cTnI) in the diagnosis of myocardial injury due to perinatal asphyxia in newborn dogs

Abstract

Perinatal asphyxia is the main cause of the losses of more than 60% of newborns of the canine species in the first days of life. It is related to several factors, including obstetric conditions, dystocia, prolonged delivery, and anesthetic depression induced during cesarean section. The clinical evaluation of the newborn and the use of complementary exams are extremely important to identify neonates who require immediate intervention and monitoring. Specific cardiac biochemical markers such as troponin I are used to diagnosing ischemic and non-ischemic myocardial injury in human asphyxiated newborns at birth. The diagnosis of myocardial injury leads to the possibility of early care to the newborn, increasing the chances of survival. The aim of this study was to evaluate the levels of cardiac troponin I (cTnI) in asphyxiated and non-asphyxiated newborns, correlating with the Apgar scores, oxygen saturation, blood glucose, lactatemia and hemogasometry. The study aims to determine the possible use of troponin I as a marker of ischemic myocardial injury and indicator of perinatal hypoxia in canine neonates, as well as its use as a predictor of neonatal mortality. At least 30 animals born by cesarean section, 15 animals in the hypoxia (asphyxiated) group (GH) and 15 animals in the control group (non asphyxiated) (CG), will be evaluated, and a standard of comparative normality can be established. Control group (not asphyxiated) with 15 animals born from eutocia by vaginal delivery. Neonates will be evaluated at birth and after 60 minutes. The expected results of the study assume that asphyxiated newborns will have a significantly higher level of cardiac troponin I (cTnI) in the blood compared to non-asphyxiated newborns. As well as, different levels of cTnI in neonates who require ventilatory support, use of inotropic and chronotropic drugs or methylxanthines in resuscitation or resuscitation. The study will impact on the clinical management of these patients, increasing immediate postpartum care and the survival rate of newborn dogs. (AU)