IMHA SA

What distinguishes primary IMHA from secondary IMHA?

Primary IMHA has no known trigger and is usually inherited, while secondary IMHA is triggered by underlying conditions such as infections or toxins.

Which infections commonly trigger secondary IMHA in cats?

FIP, Mycoplasma haemofelis, FeLV, and chronic bacterial infections.

What are common clinical signs of IMHA?

Pyrexia, pale mucous membranes, jaundice, cardiovascular abnormalities, and hepatomegaly.

How is IMHA diagnosed through haematology?

Low PCV/HCT, presence of reticulocytes, leucocytosis with possible neutrophilia, and thrombocytopenia.

What does the presence of spherocytes in a blood smear indicate?

It suggests the presence of immune-mediated hemolytic anemia (IMHA).

What does an auto-agglutination test measure in suspected IMHA cases?

It looks for macroscopic agglutination that indicates antibodies on the RBC surface.

What is the purpose of the Coombes test in IMHA diagnosis?

It identifies antibodies on the RBC surface and is more sensitive than the auto-agglutination test.

What biochemistry findings may indicate IMHA?

Increased ALT and ALP suggesting hepatocellular damage and cholestasis, along with discolored plasma.

What abnormalities might be found in the urinalysis for a patient with IMHA?

Bilirubinuria and hemoglobinuria.

What is the main treatment approach for IMHA?

Treating the underlying disease or trigger and providing immunosuppression.

Which immunosuppressive medications are commonly used for IMHA?

Glucocorticoids, with possible addition of cyclosporin or azathioprine.

Why might a blood transfusion be necessary in IMHA cases?

To prevent hypovolemia or hypoxia while waiting for steroids to take effect, despite the RBCs being hemolysed.

What specific treatment is used for Mycoplasma infection in cats related to IMHA?

Doxycycline.

What potential complication can arise from IMHA due to blood hypercoagulability?

Thromboembolic disease.

What does DIC stand for in the context of potential IMHA consequences?

Disseminated intravascular coagulation.

What are some underlying causes that can trigger secondary IMHA?

Infections, neoplasia, drugs, toxins, or venom.

What is the significance of pale mucous membranes in IMHA?

It indicates anemia due to low red blood cell count.

How might jaundice present in an IMHA patient?

As a result of increased bilirubin from hemolysis.

What cardiovascular abnormalities could be associated with IMHA?

Changes in heart rate and rhythm due to anemia.

What are reticulocytes and their relevance in diagnosing IMHA?

Immature red blood cells that indicate bone marrow response to anemia.

What is the importance of assessing thrombocytopenia in IMHA?

It indicates possibility of concurrent immune-mediated thrombocytopenia (Evans syndrome).

What is the role of steroids in the treatment of IMHA?

To suppress the immune response and reduce hemolysis.

What does the presence of decompensated anemia indicate in a patient with IMHA?

It shows that the body is unable to compensate for the loss of red cells.

In IMHA, why is liver function often monitored?

Due to elevated liver enzymes indicating possible liver damage from increased hemolysis.

What is the primary goal of treating an animal with IMHA?

To stabilize the patient and manage the underlying cause of the anemia.