Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Azathioprine helped two horses with low platelet counts
By Humber, K A et al.·Published in Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association·1991·Department of Clinical Studies, United States·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: Azathioprine for treatment of immune-mediated thrombocytopenia in two horses.
- Species:
- horse
Plain-English summary
In this study, two horses with a condition called immune-mediated thrombocytopenia (where the immune system mistakenly destroys platelets, which help blood clot) were treated with a medication called azathioprine after they didn't get better with just corticosteroids. After treatment, both horses showed improved platelet counts, which is a good sign. One horse was able to return to racing successfully, while the other unfortunately developed kidney disease and mild laminitis (a painful hoof condition) and had to be put to sleep. Overall, the treatment worked for one horse but not for the other.
Abstract
Azathioprine, a thiopurine antimetabolite used in the treatment of immune-mediated thrombocytopenia in human beings and dogs, was used in 2 cases of immune-mediated thrombocytopenia in horses that failed to respond to corticosteroid therapy alone. Platelet counts were increased to acceptable values in both horses. One horse returned to a successful racing career, and the other was euthanatized after developing renal disease and mild laminitis.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/1787117/