Bee sting envenomation resulting in secondary immune-mediated hemolytic anemia in two dogs.
Immune-mediated hemolytic anemia secondary to bee envenomation developed in 2 dogs. Clinical signs included lethargy, hematuria, ataxia, and seizures; 1 dog died. Clinicopathologic data included nonregenerative anemia, spherocytosis, positive results for Coombs' test, and occult hematuria. Treatment included oral administration of corticosteroids at immunosuppressive dosages and supportive care. The surviving dog initially responded to corticosteroids, but hemolysis recurred as the dosage was tapered. Hemolysis resolved with prolonged administration of corticosteroids. Bee venom contains hyaluronidase, histamines, and hemolysins that cause toxic and hemolytic effects. Envenomation should be considered in any dog with hemolytic anemia in which other causes are ruled out and exposure to bees is known.
Noble
S J
SJ
Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Minnesota, St Paul 55108, USA.
Armstrong
P J
PJ
D000744:Anemia, Hemolytic, Autoimmune / Q000209:etiology / Q000662:veterinary*; D000818:Animals; D001514:Bee Venoms / Q000276:immunology*; D001516:Bees; D004283:Dog Diseases / Q000209:etiology*; D004285:Dogs; D005260:Female; D007299:Insect Bites and Stings / Q000150:complications / Q000662:veterinary*; D008297:Male
D001514:Bee Venoms