Idiopathic thrombocytopenia in dogs - case report

Thrombocytopenia represents a significant reduction in number of blood platelets in thecirculation of mammals. The causes of thrombocytopenia in dogs and cats are: various infectiousfactors, viruses, bacterias, parasites, various pathological conditions of the liver, spleen, bonemarrow or autoimmune diseases. Sometimes, thrombocytopenia causes many different factors orthe real cause can not be detected, and its origin is called idiopathic. In our practice, in the course ofhaematological analysis of blood, we encounter a reduced number of platelets in the blood of dogsand cats. Then we are facing the great challenge of diagnosing and treating possible idiopathicthrombocytopenia in animals.In our case, we have a Miniature poodle whose problems began at the age of 2.5. The dog had thefollowing symptoms: inapetency, somnolence, temperature of 38.80C, pale oral mucosa withpetechiae and behavioral changes. After the first hematological blood tests were performed, theresults of the parameters indicated thrombocytopenia in this dog. Diagnosis of the disease issupported by symptoms and differential diagnosis, so we started with frequent monitoring ofhaematological parameters.We included adequate therapy with the first symptoms of the disease in our case of idiopathicthrombocytopenia in a young dog. The therapy was successful, hematological parameters and thequality of life improved, and the dog is now eight years old. The treatment of idiopathicthrombocytopenia is a challenge for every small animal veterinarian and for this reason in this paperwe share our experiences with colleagues.