Immune thrombocytopenia

What are the causes of ITP in dogs?

The exact cause of ITP is not known, but it is thought to be an autoimmune disease in which the immune system mistakenly recognizes the dog's own blood platelets as foreign and destroys them. Possible triggers for ITP are:

• Infections, such as parvovirus, ehrlichiosis or leishmaniasis
• Vaccinations, especially those containing live viruses
• Medication, such as antibiotics, painkillers or chemotherapy
• Cancer, such as lymphoma or leukemia
• Pregnancy or childbirth
• Genetic factors or racial predisposition

What are the symptoms of ITP in dogs?

The symptoms of ITP can vary depending on the severity of the disease. The most common signs are:

• Bleeding from the nose, mouth, anus or urethra
• Bruising or petechiae (small red dots) on the skin or mucous membranes
• Pale or yellow mucous membranes
• Weakness, lethargy or loss of appetite
• Fever or increased heart rate
• Difficulty breathing or coughing

How is ITP diagnosed in dogs?

To diagnose ITP in dogs, the vet must carry out a thorough medical history and clinical examination. He will look for possible triggers or concomitant diseases. He will also order a blood test to determine the blood platelet count. A normal value is between 150,000 and 500,000 per microliter of blood. In dogs with ITP, the level may fall below 50,000. The vet may also perform other tests such as x-rays, ultrasound or bone marrow biopsy to rule out other causes for the bleeding tendency.

How is ITP treated in dogs?

The treatment of ITP in dogs depends on the severity of the disease and the general condition of the dog. The aim is to stop the bleeding, increase the platelet count and suppress the immune system. Possible treatment options are

• Blood transfusions to compensate for the loss of platelets and red blood cells
• Immunosuppressants, such as corticosteroids, azathioprine or cyclosporine, to prevent the destruction of platelets
• Antibiotics to treat possible infections
• Gastric protectants to prevent stomach bleeding
• Surgery to remove the spleen or uterus if they are identified as the source of platelet destruction

What is the prognosis of ITP in dogs?

The prognosis of ITP in dogs is variable and depends on many factors, such as the cause of the disease, response to treatment and the occurrence of complications. Some dogs may recover completely, while others may remain chronically affected or die from severe bleeding. Treatment can also have side effects, such as weight gain, diabetes or infections. It is therefore important to have the dog examined regularly by the vet and to adjust the medication if necessary.