Clinical signs or symptoms are related to signs of anemia, or reduced red blood cells. Some animals will also exhibit an enlarged spleen. Your veterinarian will note the anemia on routine laboratory tests. The laboratory pathologist will often pick up the microscopic organisms present in red blood cells during these routine tests. Also a Coombs test designed to detect the presence of autoantibodies against red blood cells may be helpful.
Treatment includes blood transfusions if the anemia is severe or acute.
Corticosteroids, such as prednisone, are often required early in the course of the disease in more severely affected animals to effectively reduce the immune related destruction of red blood cells inherent to this disease. Prognosis is good if treated and managed effectively. Inc. Health information provided as a source of education and entertainment only. Please consult your veterinarian immediately if your pet is ill or needs preventive care. Copyright , Veterinary Information Network, Inc.