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Canine Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia (AIHA & IMHA) - Terry and Timmy update
| Hello everyone.I am glad to be able to post again. Thanks....Brigitte and Joanne for your kindness and help...I haven't been home much running back and fourth to the vets.We are one day post transfusion no.2 which was cross matched and went off without a hitch.He was then given (IGIG)Human globulin.We went from a pcv of 11 yesterday to 26 earlier today and he was just rechecked and now 28...I know this jump is a shaky plus sign because We don't know if it is the IGIG or the pred, cyclosporine kicking in or just post transfusion settling.We are about a week out on the pred and 3 days on the cyclosporine.He is also on doxycycline as well from the start.He knocked off the low dose asprin but with all the information supporting positive results.I am going to try to get him back on it. He was very perky today by the time we left and was really hungry and got to feed him some chicken breast they provided.That is the first time since the onset that he really really wanted to eat.We had to watch he didn't eat or drink too much to avoid a sick tummy. He has an enlarged spleen and liver and kidney stones.. from the ultrasound...At least were still in the game at this point......I continue to keep all of you in my thoughts and prayers as each day turns into another. Everyone seems like family here.Alot to learn and take in It nice to go through this alone. |
| Terry pa |
| I meant to say on the last line of my last comment on this thread.that i am glad i don't have to go through this alone.My mind and fingers wen't different directions. Terry and Timmy |
| terry pa |
| Terry, everybody knew what you meant! Being frazzles is part of the game. This disease is all consuming. It sounds like Timmy is heading in the right direction. Like Melissa said; one day at a time! It will take some time for the cyclosporine to kick in. The prednisone will make Timmy's appetite ferocious in no time. As for the aspirin, they could do a test to see if there is any danger of clotting. If that is positive, you can take it from there. Best wishes, Brigitte & Kahlu |
| Brigitte BC Canada |
| The vet also mentioned he has good cell regeneration at this point.The vet insists it is the IGIG responsible for stability at this point and said this is his last chance to buy time for something to kick in.I am sure the drastic up and down of blood levels and everything that goes on during a transfusion is really hard on these little guys and gals and all the nasty drugs. when we buy them some time in hopes to save them.When do we know we are putting them through too much.The vet says this is the last ha' ra' for him.What are everyone's thoughts? |
| Terry Pa |
| Terry, I don't like the attitude of this vet. (Unless I misunderstood) he needs to improve on his "bedside manners". This was one of the reasons we had to change vets. the other was that he could not get blood from Kahlu. He said he is wiggling too much. The vet we are with now just has to hold out her hand and Kahlu gives his paw for the draw. But back to Timmy... if he is regenerating half the battle is won. Again I might have misunderstood, since I don't know how the IGIG works. We never had to go that route. As for knowing when enough is enough, I think they let you know. I have euthanized 3 dogs, young and old and it seemed every time they gave me that look...it is enough now, let's get it over with. As long as Timmy is not in pain, and I don't think he is, it is worth fighting. Keep consulting with Dr. Dodds in mind! Best wishes, Brigitte & Kahlu |
| Brigitte BC Canada |
| Terry, I hate when Vets go all doom and gloom. It sounds like Timmy is heading in the right direction. It is very good that he is showing cell regeneration. Go back to Joanne's site and read the success stories. There have been many dogs that have gone through a terrible time before they stabilized. Yes, this is a very difficult disease to beat and even when you try everything there is no guarantee but as long as Timmy is showing he is willing to fight then that is your sign. I can't explain it but if the time comes you will know. Until then keep on believing that Timmy will someday be a Meiha's Hope success story. Penny |
| Penny Lytle Creek Calif |
| http://www.cloudnet.com/~jdickson/treatment.htm Human Intravenous Immunoglobulin (IVGG) is a blood product administered intravenously. It contains the pooled IgG immunoglobulins extracted from the plasma of many human blood donors. IVGG is used in humans for many conditions and has been used in some cases of canine AIHA/IMHA when the patient does not respond to other therapies. |
| Patrice NYS |
| Terry. Great to hear Timmy is regenerative. That is great news. Going from 26 to 28 is a positive sign even though it was in a matter of only half a day or so. Best to go up than down! I'm with Brigitte concerning Timmy's doctor. I did the exact same as Brigitte with Tessy. I left her original doctor because they said there wasn't much that could be done. If I would have stayed and listened to them Tessy wouldn't be here laying with we as I write this. Perhaps you should seek another opinion. Maybe from a specialiast. I'll keep Timmy in my thoughts and prayers. Johnny & Tessy |
| Johnny Nova Scotia |
This thread was discussed between 24/07/2009 and 25/07/2009
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