Canine Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia (AIHA & IMHA) - Good News!

Ernie has just had a blood test today after 10 days of treatment. His PCV is now 33 with his rbc at 4.9, a massive improvement from his PCV of 15 and rbc 2.1. And there's no evidence of red cell destruction now. The vet said he's never seen such a rapid improvement. He wanted to reduce his dose now but I expressed my concerns about that and he's agreed to leave him on his current dose for a while longer. The dose he is on is already below what I've read is the normal starting dose anyway. I got the impression that the vet isn't used to being challenged but he didn't argue too much, maybe he realises that I've been doing my homework on this and at least have some idea of what I'm talking about. This board and the meisha's hope website have been invaluable to me and I can't thank you all enough for all the info and support. Sue

Sue Northants UK

Hi Sue, Great news about Ernie. Well done for standing up for your dog. You will end up knowing more than your vet. Our local vet admitted I knew more than her about the meds, the condition, etc. You know your dog best and you are Ernie's voice. Well done again all round. Steph

Steph UK

Brilliant news for you............much the same as Jasper's last blood test 2 weeks ago. The vet decided to keep him on the same dose for 3 more weeks to hopefully give his rbc a chance to climb into the more normal range. If it is we will decide on a possible reduction !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! What dose is he on? Jasper is only on 10mg pred twice daily. I have to say though, he is having a very lazy day today, unless he hears his food cupboard or the fridge door opening that is !!!! Keep up the good work Ernie....I love that name!

Jackie pembrokeshire; west wales; uk

that is awesome, great to hear :)

josh cal

Sue, such great news about Ernie. I reiterate what Steph said about advocating for your dog - good for you!!!! deb and Duck

Debbie Nelson BC

In answer to your question Jackie - Ernie is on 5mg pred twice a day, he's only a little chap (15lb). On his blood test 10 days ago his white blood cells were also very low so he was put on antibiotics as a precaution, but today his wbc count is well within normal range so he's just on the pred. Hope Jaspers next test test brings good news too. :-)

Sue northants UK

Sue, I am so happy for you and Ernie.

Penny Lytle Creek Calif

Sue -- congratulations to you and Ernie on the wonderful progress. Keep on going!

Brenda VA

Sue, That is great news for you and Ernie! I think it is so much better to reduce very slowly then chance the relapse. We are doing 4 weeks in between reductions, unless Ernie's liver values are super high. Linda

Linda Sapphire

Sue, Great News! I am happy for you and Ernie! Jess

Jess BC

This thread was discussed between 11/10/2007 and 12/10/2007

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