Splenectomy as an adjunctive treatment for dogs with immune-mediated hemolytic anemia: ten cases (2003-2006).
OBJECTIVE
To describe the patient population, disease severity, and outcome in dogs with immune-mediated hemolytic anemia (IMHA) that underwent splenectomy. To compare presurgical and postsurgical data.


METHODS
Retrospective case series.


METHODS
Emergency clinic/referral hospital.


METHODS
Ten dogs diagnosed with IMHA.


METHODS
Splenectomy in addition to standard medical management for IMHA.


METHODS
Medical records of 10 dogs with IMHA, in which a splenectomy was performed were reviewed. The population was analyzed with regards to physical and clinicopathologic data, severity, treatment, and outcome. Outcome was defined as survival at 30 days, percentage of dogs on medications at 30 days, and number of relapses documented by 30 days. The presurgical and postsurgical PCV and transfusion requirements were documented and compared for each dog.


RESULTS
Nine of 10 dogs survived to 30 days. Four of the 9 that survived were not on any immunosuppressive medications. There were no relapses during the 30 days. The 3-day postsplenectomy PCVs were significantly higher than presplenectomy. The number of transfusions administered postsplenectomy was significantly less than those administered presplenectomy.


CONCLUSIONS
The use of splenectomy may be associated with an improved outcome in dogs with IMHA.
Horgan
Jason Elliott
JE
Veterinary Specialists of South Florida, Cooper City, FL 33024, USA. jason081977@aol.com
Roberts
Brian Keith
BK
Schermerhorn
Thomas
T
D000744:Anemia, Hemolytic, Autoimmune / Q000601:surgery / Q000662:veterinary*; D000818:Animals; D004283:Dog Diseases / Q000601:surgery*; D004285:Dogs; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D013156:Splenectomy / Q000662:veterinary*; D013997:Time Factors