What is Immune-Mediated Thrombocytopenia in Dogs

If your dog seems more lethargic than usual lately, you notice unusual bruising, bleeding gums, or tiny red spots on their skin, it’s worth checking in with your vet. Although these signs are non-specific and can stem from many harmless causes, another possibility is immune-mediated thrombocytopenia (IMT). This health condition is common in dogs and can have serious and even life-threatening consequences when left untreated. However, catching the condition early can significantly improve your dog’s prognosis.

This article contains essential information that you should be aware of as a dog owner to ensure the well-being of your canine companion. By reading, you will discover what immune-mediated thrombocytopenia in dogs is. Additionally, you will learn about the symptoms, causes and risk factors associated with this disease, and find out how immune-mediated thrombocytopenia is diagnosed and treated.

What is Immune-Mediated Thrombocytopenia (IMT) in Dogs?

Immune-mediated thrombocytopenia is classified as an autoimmune disorder, similar to lupus. In IMT, the immune system destroys platelets, an essential component of the blood that is responsible for blood clotting. Clotting reduces blood loss, which is crucial during serious external or internal injuries, as excessive bleeding can be life-threatening and a medical emergency. When a dog’s platelet levels fall dangerously low, symptoms include unexplained bruising, tiny red or purple skin spots, and bleeding from the nose, gums, or mouth. Blood in urine, stool, or vomit, as well as lethargy, pale gums, weakness, or collapse due to blood loss, can also point toward immune-mediated thrombocytopenia.

Causes and Risk Factors

Sometimes this disorder can appear without a specific trigger other than genetic predisposition, for example, in certain breeds, including Cocker Spaniels, Poodles, and Old English Sheepdogs. Female dogs, those with weakened immune systems, certain immune variations, as well as those with a family history of ITP, are also at a higher risk. When any of these factors are the only identifiable reasons, medical professionals speak of primary ITP.

In contrast, secondary ITP can be caused by infections, tick-borne diseases, certain cancers, or chemotherapy. Medications such as antibiotics, certain pain relievers, vaccinations, toxins, and environmental exposure can trigger the disorder. Lastly, age can play a role in both primary and secondary immune-mediated thrombocytopenia, since it’s most commonly diagnosed in middle-aged dogs.

Diagnosis and Treatment

To diagnose immune-mediated thrombocytopenia in dogs and rule out other reasons for your pet’s symptoms, your vet will run blood tests, including a complete blood count (CBC). Diagnostics may also include bone marrow aspiration, x-rays, and ultrasound. Once the condition is diagnosed, your vet will decide on a course of treatment depending on the severity of ITP, how far the disorder has progressed, and other factors. While corticosteroids, such as prednisone, are often prescribed initially to suppress the immune system and slow the destruction of platelets, medications to reduce an overactive immune response further are usually given in addition.

In more serious or pressing cases, IV immunoglobulins (IVIG) can be beneficial to boost your dog’s platelet count quickly, while blood transfusions or platelet-rich plasma can help slow down and stop active bleeding. Alongside these medical treatments, rest, fluid therapy, and antacids can also help your dog recover. You should closely monitor your pet during recovery and after treatment by regularly scheduling visits to the vet, including blood tests. This is especially important since some dogs are prone to relapses and may require ongoing or repeated treatment.