© Kirrawee Veterinary Hospital CANINE DISEASES
Immune-mediated Thrombocytopenia
Immume-mediated thrombocytopenia (IMT) is a condition where the
body destroys its own platelets (thrombocytes). Platelets are
cells in the blood which have an important role in forming a stable
clot to stem bleeding. This process is a hypersensitivity (allergic)
reaction where the body is tricked into recognizing the platelets
as foreign. The clinical signs include bleeding from any part of the body,
weakness, anemia, and patches of blood on the gums. When the platelet
number drops to below 200,000 thrombocytes / mm3 the animal is
considered to be thrombocytopenic however clinical signs are not
commonly seen at this level. Platelet counts below 30,000 / mm3
are associated with bleeding disorders. Prednisolone therapy has been the traditional treatment for IMT
at dose rates of 0.5 - 2 mg/kg which are gradually reduced to
the lowest effective maintenance dose. Response to treatment is
monitored with regular platelet counts. Dexamethasone has also
been used successfully at dose rates of 0.1 - 0.2 mg/kg. Chemotherapy
using vincristine may be necessary in cases where corticosteroids
prove ineffective. Most IMT cases can be successfully treated
and maintained however periodic relapses should be expected.
Related sites |