Effects of percutaneous liver biopsy in alpacas and llamas

OBJECTIVE: To determine changes in results of selected serum biochemical tests after a single percutaneous liver biopsy and changes in results of hematologic and selected serum biochemical tests after multiple percutaneous liver biopsies in alpacas and llamas. ANIMALS: 5 llamas and 10 alpacas. PROCEDURE: A single percutaneous liver biopsy was performed in 5 llamas and 6 alpacas. Blood samples were collected before and 1, 2, and 3 days after liver biopsy, and submitted for serum biochemical analysis. In the other 4 alpacas, liver biopsy was performed on day 0 and then weekly for 4 weeks. Blood samples were collected at the time of each biopsy, and CBC and serum biochemical analyses were performed. Attitude and appetite of all animals were evaluated daily. RESULTS: None of the animals developed clinically apparent adverse effects. A mild decrease in sorbitol dehydrogenase activity was detected in animals that underwent a single liver biopsy, and mild decreases in plasma protein and albumin concentrations were detected in animals that underwent multiple biopsies. Other significant changes were not detected. CONCLUSIONS: Results of this study suggest that liver biopsy is safe in healthy llamas and alpacas and that, if necessary, multiple weekly liver biopsies can be performed safely in healthy alpacas.