Final answer:
Prolonged corticosteroid therapy in dogs can result in elevated serum levels of lipases.
Step-by-step explanation:
Prolonged corticosteroid therapy in dogs can lead to an increase in the levels of certain enzymes in the serum. Glucocorticoids like cortisol and cortisone are known for their role in stress responses and their effect on increasing blood glucose levels. This is partly achieved by the stimulation of gluconeogenesis and the synthesis of glucose in the liver. Additionally, they prompt the release of fatty acids from adipose tissue by stimulating the activity of enzymes like lipases, which break down triglycerides. As a result of prolonged corticosteroid therapy, such as with prednisone or hydrocortisone, dogs can experience an increase in lipase levels leading to elevated serum enzyme levels.