Glucosuria with normal blood glucose in dogs: Fanconi syndrome
5-year-old Basenji with polyuria/polydipsia and mild weight loss. Glucosuria on two separate urine samples.
| Parameter | Result | Reference |
|---|---|---|
| Blood glucose | 96 mg/dL | 70–120 |
| Urine glucose (dipstick) | +++ | Negative |
| Urine specific gravity | 1.012 | > 1.030 |
| Venous bicarbonate | 15 mmol/L | 18–24 |
| Creatinine | 1.1 mg/dL | 0.5–1.5 |
What is the most likely diagnosis?
chevron_right Show answer and explanation
A. Fanconi syndrome (proximal tubulopathy)
Correct. Glucosuria with normal blood glucose indicates a defect in proximal tubular reabsorption. The metabolic acidosis (bicarbonate loss) and the breed make it very likely; it is confirmed by aminoaciduria. It is inherited in the Basenji but can also be acquired.
B. Diabetes mellitus
Glucosuria in diabetes appears when blood glucose exceeds the renal threshold (about 180–220 mg/dL in dogs). At 96 mg/dL this is not diabetes.
C. Stress hyperglycaemia
It is typical of cats and requires sustained high blood glucose to cause glucosuria. Here blood glucose is normal and glucosuria persists on two samples.
D. False-positive dipstick due to bleach contamination of the container
Oxidants such as bleach do give false-positive glucose readings, but would not explain repeated glucosuria on different samples or the metabolic acidosis.
lightbulb Key takeaway
Glucosuria + normal blood glucose = tubular problem. Besides inherited Fanconi in the Basenji, look for acquired causes: leptospirosis, aminoglycosides, chicken jerky treats and other tubular toxins. Confirm with urine amino acids or fractional excretion.
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Updated: October 31, 2026 · Educational content for veterinary professionals. It does not replace current clinical guidelines or the judgement of the attending veterinarian.