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Canine Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia (AIHA & IMHA) - When do you know they need the tranfusion?
| Allie started on the cyclosporine after we lowered her pred due to negative side effects. Now it seems like she is on s stready decline. She is very weak and breathing heavy. Many of you have been kind enough to respond to my posts and tell me to be patient, but I am wondering if maybe she needs the transfusion. Please let me know if you have any advice, my heart is breaking seeing her like this. Kat |
| Kate Northwest |
| Hi Kate I was told by my vet that a transfusion is usually given when the pcv hits 15 or below. You may want to take Allie to the vet and get her checked out or to a specialist. Lisa |
| Lisa West Aust |
| If you think she is that bad, I would consult my vet and try to find a specialist, who has experiance with AIHA. I would not wait if you think she is declining. |
| Cheryl Pineville PA |
| HI, How long ago was the pred reduced? The weakness and heavy breathing are typical pred side effects; I know it is distressing, but don't despair - they may improve in time as the pred is further reduced. I think the cyclo takes time to kick in. Hilary |
| Hilary Hampshire |
| Kate: I've heard the same thing as Lisa - that a transfusion should be given when the pcv hits or falls below 15. Shadow has had three transfusions (since Oct. 19), when her pcv anywhere between 11.0-12.3. Although her pcv stayed "steady" (actually, it fell gradually) after each transfusion (until she "crashed" again), she did not show any increase in her pcv until after the last transfusion. (Five days after it, her pcv had increased from 26 to 26.9). Like Allie, Shadow had an adverse reaction to prednisone (she developed GI tract bleeding) and had to be switched to cyclosporine. The cyclo did a real number on her - causing her pcv to plummet; her to become depressed and sapped of all energy. I think her body has adjusted to it now, although she is on half the dose that she was when she was fist switched to it. The kids are taking a beating with the drugs they receive and it takes them a while to adjust. And, consulting a specialist (or a generalist who will consult with a specialist) is always a good idea. (Most of the Veterinary Teaching Hospitals offer free consultation with practicing vets.) Hang in, keep fighting, and let us know how Allie responds to the transfusion, if she has one. Sandy & Shadow |
| Sandy Utah |
| yup, anything below like 12-14% or so |
| josh california |
| also...my prayers are with Allie, it is tough, she will bounce back |
| josh california |
This thread was discussed on 16/11/2007
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