Questions about IMHA in pets empower hour webinar

[AliceR]

Hi,
After watching the Empower Hour on IMHA, I noticed that Dr. Villaneuva mentioned a possibility of performing a splenectomy, she inferred that it was a bad idea, I thought. Was wondering if anyone can tell me why? She didn't really say.

Also, I have heard of several dogs being diagnosed with this, and some have rejected the transfusions, and some have just been euthanized after the diagnosis, not sure how soon after diagnosis. It seems she only has treated a few cases, but I'm wondering how many of those animals recovered?

Thanks,
Alice

 

[Dr. Jeff]

Great questions Alice!

I'll ask Dr. Villanueva today then post her reply here.

 

[Dr. Christina]

While not an essential organ like the heart, the spleen is very important for health and immune function.

It is part of blood cell production, helps to filter out the blood, removing old blood cells and fighting infection. The spleen creates a reserve pool of blood, so it helps control the amount of blood circulating through the body.

You bring up a good point, Alice, about the reaction of many vets to a diagnosis of IMHA - to euthanize. Since there are holistic options that may be able to turn around this illness, trying some holistic actions, with a trained veterinarian, is a great step.

Dr. Christina