Canine Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia (AIHA & IMHA) - Again?

I used to be a regular on this board when my dog Monster was first diagnosed with AIHA back in May of 2007 and found it to be a wealth of knowledge, comfort, and hope. We did the gamut of treatments and Monster eventually pulled out of the situation – back to her old self. In observing her during this past month, I am beginning to wonder if we are facing this old enemy again. Is there anybody out there who has been through this twice? Do you have any recommendations? Thanks - puppy hugs to all.

Jenelle Colorado

I am sorry Monster is not feeling well. Yes, they can have relapse and Ginger is currently on her 2nd relapse since 2007. We tried to reduce her meds and found out that we can't and her PCV feel to 25 two weeks ago. Now she is back on the predispose, Imuran and the cyclospororine she seems to be doing okay with all the drugs except the pred so when we go back to the vet on Wednesday I am going to ask her to reduce it. I am going to give BioPreperation a try and see if that will help. Have you had Monster's PCV checked and if so what was it? Cheryl & Ginger

Cheryl & Ginger Pineville PA

Cheryl & Ginger, No, I haven't been in to have her PCV checked in over a year; she was doing so well and the specialist said he didn't need to see her anymore, but I know she's going to have to get back in to the vet. I was just wondering how Ginger is fairing - and if she was ever med free? What were your observations of Ginger - How did you know that she was relapsing again or was it based off of her PCV levels? I'm unfamiliar with BioPreperation - what is that? Puppy hugs. Jenelle & Monster

Jenelle Colorado

No, Ginger was never med free but we did try to get her on a very low maintenance dose but failed. Once we started to reduce her med's I noticed she was a bit more lethargic and not wanting to get up and even seem depressed also her appetite was not 100%. She would still eat but not with usual gusto. Also she seemed slower and lagging behind me on our walks. She had another relapse in June of 08 and came back stronger then ever so I hope she will rebound again. Did Monster have any recent vaccinations? Keep us posted, Cheryl & Ginger

Cheryl & Ginger Pineville PA

Jenelle, What signs are you seeing in Monster that has you so worried?? I think with this disease the worry will always be there for us. Holly has had a few setbacks because of stomach problems, allergies, etc. just makes you freak out every time something different happens. Linda

Linda Sapphire

I'm sorry to hear that this is her 2nd relapse -it's got to be hard for the both of you - but we do what we have to for our babies! How much does Ginger's PCV fluctuate? How old is Ginger and what kind of kid? No, Monster hasn't had any vaccinations in years despite the general vet trying to push them on us. The specialist was very specific about not ever vaccinating her again - if we could get away with it. The only thing that we've had to do for her is 24 stitches when she sliced open her shoulder. Despite my objections they had to put her general anesthesia so that they could scrub out the area and stitch it. That was in February of 2009. Monster has been med free since about May of 2008.

Jenelle Colorado

Ginger is a 75 lbs 10 year old Golden Retriever. She has more of a chronic AIHA and her PCV falls to certian level and usually does not go any lower. I think at this point you should take the side of caution and have Monsters PCV checked as soon as you can to put your mind at ease and to get him on the proper meds if he needs them, hopfully he will not. Keep us posted. Cheryl & Ginger

Cheryl & Ginger Pineville PA

I'ld have a PCV done just in case. You'll only continue to wonder what is wrong until you do and you know how it can buy you the satisfaction of at least knowing what's wrong. Plus...if you keep waiting and it is a relapse then you start to blame yourself for not going in sooner. I'm hoping Monster is just under the weather. Hoping him the best. Johnny & Tessy

Johnny

Jenelle, I am sorry to hear that Monster doesn't seem to feel well. Can you describe some of the symptoms that are most prominent? I think we are all so used to attributing "not feeling good" to AIHA that we sometimes miss that it can be other problems. And sometimes those other things are very treatable! my best patrice

Patrice NYS

Thank you for all of your concern, suggestions, and shared information. Monster goes in Wednesday for a PCV to the general vet. The specialist was booked and will only see her if the local vet feels it immediately important. She has weight loss, hair loss, she is lethargic, pale gums, and wants to be close (which is very unusual). We won't have her results until Thursday. The general vet can prescribe the regiment we used last time if a relapse is what we're dealing with. Puppy hugs to all! Jenelle & Monster

Jenelle Colorado

RenJenelle, I have been through this twice. Ren was diagnosised with AHIA in Sept 2007. Exactly one year later, she relapsed. Although each case is different, the second time around was much worse that the first. My suggestion, start medication right away! Do not hesitate. My Vet thought Ren might have had heart disease and we took precious time treating her for that. In reality, Ren was suffering mini strokes from clotting. A tell tale sign of AIHA. If we had started her back on medication a week or two earlier, I think Ren may have not had such a horrendous relapse. The great news is that Ren has once again recovered. It has been a long and very difficult year. But I have learned to value each and every moment with my little Ren. Sue & Ren

Susie delaware

This thread was discussed between 14/09/2009 and 16/09/2009

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