IMHA and ITP
- 1. IMHA & ITP How these Immune Mediated Disorders affect your Pets Victoria Elise Kichler Iowa State University College of Veterinary Medicine Class of 2017
- 2. • IMHA stands for Immune Mediated Hemolytic Anemia • IMT or ITP stands for Immune Mediated Thrombocytopenia • When both diseases are found concurrently, it can be termed Evan’s Syndrome
- 3. Diagnosis • Your pet may have been diagnosed with an immune mediated disorder, such as IMHA or ITP • Your pet’s own immune system begins attacking itself by coating its own blood cells with antibodies for destruction • In IMHA red blood cells are attacked and destroyed, while platelets are attacked and destroyed in ITP
- 4. Signs • Your pet may be lethargic and lose his appetite, gums could be pale or yellow, and could have a fever (indicative of IMHA) • Your pet may have unusual bruising or be bleeding from a body orifice (indicative of ITP)
- 5. Treatment • Prednisone is a steroid commonly used to treat immune mediated disorders • This may be the first line of therapy for your pet by inhibiting antibody production and inhibiting red blood cell destruction
- 6. Severe Cases • More severe cases may require a blood transfusion, especially with cases of IMHA • Since the immune mediated disease continues to attack red blood cells, patients may need multiple transfusions
- 7. Additional Medications • Leflunomide, azathioprine, cyclophosphamide, vincristine, & human immunoglobulin transfer may also be utilized
- 8. How did This Happen? • 60-70% of IMHA cases have an unknown cause, similar to ITP • Primary reactions in the immune system can trigger the event • Inflammatory reactions are examples of triggers, possibly including diseases like pancreatitis, parasites, tumors, & even medications • Vaccinations & insect bites may be potential triggers
- 9. Prevention of Recurrence • Try to avoid stimuli that could cause an immune system reaction, when possible • Always notice any problem signs such as lethargy, decreased appetite, bruising, or bleeding • Regularly monitor your pet’s bloodwork & continue medications • These life threatening diseases can be monitored by working closely with your veterinarian to avoid potential complications
- 10. References • Brooks, Wendy C., DVM, DABVP. "Immune Mediated Hemolytic Anemia." The Pet Health Library. Veterinary Information Network, 4 Mar. 2003. Web. • Brooks, Wendy C., DVM, DABVP. "Immune Mediated Thrombocytopenia." The Pet Health Library. Veterinary Information Network, 7 Apr. 2003. Web.
- 11. Additional Image References • http://healthydoghq.com/tag/canine-immune-mediated-hemolytic- anemia-imha/ • http://maybeitsmallory.blogspot.com/2011/06/oh-prednisone.html • http://scienceroll.com/2008/04/25/personalized-medicine-real- clinical-examples/ • http://www7.vghtpe.gov.tw/drugsh/asp/ShowData.asp?i=1677 • http://www.pet-informed-veterinary-advice-online.com/rabbit-ear- mites.html • http://www.vetpetconnect.com/does-my-dog-or-cat-need-blood- tests/