If you’ve ever noticed your dog suddenly becoming pale, weak, or lethargic without even the slightest clear cause, it can be terrifying. One of the lesser-known but highly serious conditions behind it can be autoimmune hemolytic anemia.
AIHA for short, this condition can develop rapidly without warning, putting your dog’s health and even life at risk. However, timely diagnosis and treatment can still catch up to this disease. While the process can be long, many dogs often manage and proceed to live healthy lives.
In this blog, we’ll break down everything you need to know about AIHA, from how it’s caused to how dogs recover from it.
What Is Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia in Dogs?
AIHA, also known as immune-mediated hemolytic anemia, is a blood disorder that happens when the dog’s immune system malfunctions. Normally, the immune system is responsible for attacking harmful invaders such as bacteria and viruses.
In AIHA, the dog’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own red blood cells. The condition is a big blow to a dog’s overall health, mainly because red blood cells are an integral part of bodily functions.
Red blood cells are responsible for delivering oxygen all throughout the body and removing carbon dioxide from several organs. When they get destroyed, it leads to anemia, a condition characterized by a reduced capacity to carry oxygen.
When this happens, affected dogs get very ill.
What Are the Causes of Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia in Dogs?
Veterinarians everywhere have classified this condition into two main types that are based on the cause: primary and secondary AIHA.
Primary AIHA
Also known as idiopathic AIHA, the primary type happens when the immune system malfunctions without any identifiable trigger. This form accounts for most of the cases in affected dogs. In primary AIHA, the immune system may attack the red blood cells at any time.
In this type, genetics and breed predisposition appear to play a strong role. Breeds more commonly affected include:
Bichon Frise
Poodles
Irish Setters
Secondary AIHA
Secondary autoimmune hemolytic anemia in dogs presents identifiable triggers that may have caused the condition. This can include:
Infections. Diseases like canine ehrlichiosis, babesiosis, and leptospirosis can destroy and impair the development of red blood cells.
Cancers. Some cancers can interfere with the normal function of the immune system, allowing them to mistakenly attack red blood cells. Additionally, the antibodies produced in response to cancer can bind to these red blood cells, marking them for the immune system to attack.
Medications. Certain antibiotics, anti-inflammatories, and steroids have been linked to canine AIHA. It happens when the components alter the immune system or red blood cells, leading the body to recognize them as foreign.
Toxins. While rare, exposure to toxins and chemicals can cause immune-related disorders, which can lead to AIHA.
Autoimmune Disorders. Other immune-mediated disorders can include lupus and rheumatoid arthritis.
Environmental Triggers. Additionally, environmental factors such as chronic stress, poor nutrition, and frequent exposure to infections can also increase the risk of this condition.
What Are the Symptoms of Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia in Dogs?
One of the most deadly characteristics of AIHA in dogs is how quickly it can progress. While it starts off as a couple of subtle symptoms, the condition can suddenly present much deadlier signs.
Common symptoms of AIHA include:
Lethargy or Weakness. Your dog may sleep more than usual or show little interest in toys, playtime, or walks. This is often one of the first noticeable changes of the condition.
Loss of Appetite. Along with fatigue, your dog may not want to eat as much as before. They might skip meals and even pass on their favorite treats.
Pale Gums. Affected dogs can start to have changes on their gums, which will turn pale and dull.
Rapid Breathing. Dogs with AIHA may breathe quickly or heavily, even when at rest. This is the body’s response to oxygen deprivation due to the destruction of red blood cells.
Increased Heart Rate. Your dog’s heart rate will also be elevated due to the reduced number of red blood cells. This can progressively cause more strain to the heart over time.
Dark Colored Urine and Stool. The urine and stool can appear dark, which is often a sign of internal bleeding.
Jaundice. A severe sign of anemia is jaundice. As the red blood cells are destroyed, the gums, skin, and eyes will start to become yellow.
Collapse. In severe cases, the dog may suddenly collapse or appear too weak to stand. This is often a crucial sign of an emergency.
Potential Complications of AIHA in Dogs
Due to the destruction of red blood cells, more health issues will arise. This often leads to a series of health issues and complications.
One of the most dangerous complications is the formation of blood clots, a condition known as thromboembolism. The blood clots can block the major blood vessels that lead to the brain, lungs, or other organs.
AIHA in dogs can also affect major organs such as the liver, kidneys, and heart, especially when the delivery of oxygen has been compromised. These organs become overworked, resulting in damage.
How Do Vets Diagnose Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia in Dogs?
The diagnostic process for AIHA in dogs involves identifying anemia and confirming the cause. Here’s an overview of how our vets do it:
Visual Examination
We will conduct a complete physical exam and a discussion of your dog’s symptoms and medical history. Any notable signs such as lethargy, yellow gums, rapid breathing, or dark urine will be noted down.
Blood Tests for AIHA
Laboratory tests, specifically bloodwork, will give us the clues we need to determine if your dog has AIHA. Here are the possible tests we can conduct:
Complete Blood Count
A CBC provides us with the size, shape, and number of your dog’s red blood cells. Low red blood cell count, low hemoglobin, and low hematocrit can confirm anemia in dogs.
In simpler terms, hemoglobin is the protein that carries oxygen. A low number will indicate low red blood cells or a lower number of red blood cells that carry this protein. Hematocrit is just the ratio of red blood cells to the actual blood of dogs. A low number indicates anemia as well.
Packed Volume Test
This test measures hematocrit levels in the blood. A normal percentage ranges from 37% to 55%. When it gets below this, anemia is highly suspected.
Blood Smear
A blood smear helps us take a look at the size, shape, and color of your dog’s red blood cells. Any distinct observations can help us identify the type of anemia. We may also look for spherocytes, which are a key indicator of AIHA in dogs.
Biochemistry Profile
These are blood tests that are used to analyze the function of your dog’s organs. This can check for kidney and liver function, which are potential complications from autoimmune hemolytic anemia in dogs.
Coombs Test
The Coombs test, otherwise known as the antiglobulin test, detects antibodies bound to red blood cells. A positive result confirms the diagnosis of AIHA, which suggests that the dog’s immune system is attacking its own red blood cells.
Other Tests
Other tests will be used to determine the cause of your dog’s AIHA. This can include:
Diagnostic Imaging. Imaging tools such as X-rays and ultrasounds can be used to assess the organs, check for tumors and abnormal growths, and other internal abnormalities.
Infectious Disease Testing. Tests for infections, such as PCR testing, can be done to confirm the specific infection that caused AIHA in your dog.
Specific Tests. Tests such as toxin and autoimmune disease screening can also be done.
How Is Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia in Dogs Treated?
The treatment process is complex and often urgent due to the nature of its progression. It focuses on two goals: stopping the immune system from attacking red blood cells and supporting the growth of new ones.
Hospitalization and Supportive Care
Dogs in crisis will need immediate hospitalization, especially in severe cases. They will be given a blood transfusion so they can recover red blood cell levels quickly. This can buy time for us to administer the next treatment options.
Intravenous fluids, oxygen therapy, and other forms of care will also be given depending on your dog’s condition. Additionally, gastroprotectants, nutritional support, and restricted activity will be provided. Hospitalization will often take several days to weeks, depending on the situation.
Medications
To stop the immune system from destroying your dog’s red blood cells, we will provide immunosuppressive drugs. Corticosteroids, such as prednisone, are often the first-line treatment options that suppress the immune system.
Other medications for specific cases, such as antibiotics and anti-clotting medications, can also be prescribed and given.
Recovery for Dogs With AIHA
During the entire treatment process, regular blood testing, medication adjustments, and monitoring will be required. These steps are essential for your dog’s recovery. Due to the severity of the condition, we will advise that you hospitalize your dog with us.
This helps us completely monitor your dog’s condition and make changes based on the recovery process.
Prognosis and Life Expectancy for Dogs With Autoimmune Hemolytic Anemia
Due to the severity of the condition, dogs can expect a poor prognosis. Mortality rates can reach anywhere from 30% to 70%. Dogs that respond well to initial therapy and stabilize have a significantly better chance of long-term survival.
When stabilized and managed properly, dogs with AIHA can live for several months and years. Unfortunately, AIHA can recur. This is why lifelong monitoring is required.
Despite the risks, dogs can still live and enjoy a good quality of life. Consistent vet care, a proper diet, and light exercise are recommended.
Vet Tips: Recommendations to Prevent AIHA in Dogs
While primary AIHA can’t be prevented entirely, there are ways to reduce the risk of secondary AIHA. Here are a few recommendations:
Use Flea and Tick Preventives
Ticks can carry infections that trigger AIHA. Using a vet-approved flea and tick product all year helps prevent those diseases. You can also bring your dog to the clinic for regular parasite preventives.
Always Have Medications Prescribed
If you need medications for your dog, we recommend getting prescriptions first. This makes sure your dog can fully utilize the medicine without experiencing any complications. Also, after the checkup, you can easily get your dog’s prescriptions at our pet pharmacy.
Stay on Top of Vet Visits
Vet visits are always recommended, as some of the health concerns our dogs face are not visible to the naked eye. Always report any changes in your dog’s behavior, energy, or appetite right away.
“Caring for our dogs involves more than just a vet visit. It’s time, attention, and complete care.”
- Dr. Leticia Maia
Final Thoughts
Autoimmune hemolytic anemia is a serious concern, but it’s not the end of your dog’s life. While the road to recovery can be challenging, knowing all there is about it can make all the difference. Work closely with our vets so we can keep your dog safe and sound.
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