Immune-mediated thrombocytopaenia

Authors: Lewis C
Publication: The New Zealand Veterinary Nurse, Volume 29, Issue 106, pp 10-19, Jun 2023
Publisher: New Zealand Veterinary Nursing Association

Animal type: Cat
Article class: Clinical Article

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Abstract:

Pathophysiology and symptoms: Immune-mediated thrombocytopaenia (IMTP) is a disease common in dogs and rare in cats. IMTP is identified by low platelet numbers due to destruction by the immune system, resulting in clotting issues and spontaneous haemorrhage (Holt, 2019; Kopecny et al., 2020; Whitley, 2020). Common symptoms include lethargy, pyrexia, uncontrolled bleeding and bruising, and patients commonly present in a bleeding crisis.

Diagnostics: IMTP is a diagnosis of exclusion, as no definitive test currently exists. Platelet counts are frequently used to confirm the presence of thrombocytopaenia ( >30,0000-50,000/μL) (Kopecny et al., 2020; Simpson et al., 2018).

Treatment: Treatment of IMTP depends on the underlying cause and the severity of the disease but revolves around initial stabilisation and blood transfusions. This is followed by steroid and immunosuppressant use, supportive therapies, and lifelong management tailored to the individual to improve their prognosis (Holt, 2019; Kopecny et al., 2020; Whitley, 2020).

Prognosis: Prognosis is unpredictable but overall positive, and relapse rates are low if treatment is successful (Brooks et al., 2022; Shropshire et al., 2020; Tayler et al., 2022).

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