My dog has elevated SDMA. Can it go down? What kidney tests are next?

SDMA (symmetric dimethylarginine) is a renal biomarker specific to kidney function. It has proven to be a more reliable indicator of kidney function than creatinine which enables veterinarians to detect kidney disease earlier. Once elevated, it usually will not go back down.

A complete blood chemistry would check for any underlying diseases that might be causing kidney damage. Diseases like diabetes, hyperthyroidism or Cushing’s disease. If Tobi is on any chronic medications (like an NSAID (Rimadyl etc.) those may cause a decrease in kidney function. A urine bacterial culture might be indicated and an x-ray for possible urinary tract stones. You should have his blood pressure checked as hypertension is often associated with kidney disease.

Tobi will need to continue to have the SDMA monitored as well as the other kidney values ( BUN, CREA, Phosphorus).

If you want more information as to how the kidneys are functioning you could request a urine protein:CREA ratio test. The urine protein:creatinine ratio is a simple test that measures how much protein is being lost through the kidneys. It is used to determine whether a pet may have serious kidney disease. The test involves measuring the amount of protein and creatinine in the same urine sample, and expressing the difference between the two values as a ratio.

Also, an abdominal ultrasound can be done to look at the architecture of the kidneys. This should be done by a specialist. They will also measure the kidneys to see if their size is appropriate.

Kidney disease cannot be "fixed" but it can be managed especially if caught early with the SDMA test. Tobi should be placed on a prescription diet to help support the kidneys. Talk with your vet about this.

I hope this helps. If you have any more specific questions please post again. Best wishes to you and Tobi.