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Your pet's immune system provides the ability to resist and recover from disease and injury. This defense system regulates production of antibodies that aid in destruction of disease agents, such as bacteria and viruses.
In immune mediated hemolytic anemia (IMHA), this defense system goes wrong and attacks the animal's own body and red blood cells, causing severe, life-threatening anemia. While infection, cancer or other diseases may cause such disruption of the immune system, in many cases the cause is unknown. Certain drug reactions may cause immune mediated hemolytic anemia. In newborns, the disease may result from antibodies found in the first milk (colostrum) of the mother.
Breeds commonly affected
English springer spaniels, collies, Shetland sheep dogs, cocker spaniels, Old English sheep dogs. Females are more commonly affected.
Clinical Signs
Weakness, difficulty breathing, bruising, pale gums, and joint pain.
Important Points in Treatment
1. Immune mediated hemolytic anemia is a serious, life-threatening disease. In many cases, immediate blood transfusions are needed. Less severe cases are treated with a variety of medications. In some patients, surgical removal of the spleen or treatment with anti-cancer drugs is necessary. Prednisolone is the primary medication used to treat this disease. Azathioprine and cyclophosphamide may also be incorporated in the treatment
2. Various laboratory tests are necessary to diagnose the condition and monitor the response to treatment. These may include a CBC, platelet count, reticulocyte count, blood profile, ANA test, bone marrow analysis, x-ray, and ultrasound.
3. Relapses are common.
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