Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Safety and use of plasma exchange treatment in dogs with immune
By Maia, Suellen Rodrigues et al.·Published in BMC veterinary research·2025·Department of Veterinary Clinics, Brazil·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: Evaluation of the safety and feasibility of extracorporeal therapy: therapeutic plasma exchange in dogs - report of five cases.
- Species:
- dog
Plain-English summary
Five dogs suffering from immune-mediated hemolytic anemia (IMHA) and/or canine visceral leishmaniasis (CVL) that weren't responding to regular treatments underwent a procedure called therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE). This treatment involved using a centrifuge to remove harmful substances from their blood. While one dog experienced swelling and another had some neurological signs during the procedure, both issues were managed effectively, and the dogs remained stable afterward. Overall, TPE was found to be a safe option for these dogs, although monitoring for low protein and calcium levels is important.
People also search for: dog immune-mediated hemolytic anemia treatment · therapeutic plasma exchange for dogs · canine visceral leishmaniasis therapy
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) has been used in immunological diseases, conditions of hyperviscosity, and the removal of protein-bound drugs and toxins. Although complications may be encountered, its use has been reported to offer some degree of safety and clinical improvement for dogs. This case report aimed to describe the feasibility and safety of TPE in dogs. CASE PRESENTATION: Five dogs with immune-mediated hemolytic anemia (IMHA) and/or canine visceral leishmaniasis (CVL) not responsive to immunosuppressive treatment underwent TPE by centrifugation. Physical, laboratory, and cardiovascular parameters were assessed pre- and post-TPE. Although one dog presented with angioedema and another dog presented with neurological signs (nystagmus) during the procedure, no other significant hemodynamic or hemostatic complications were observed, and both the physical and cardiovascular parameters remained stable post-TPE. Both angioedema and nystagmus were controlled at post-TPE. A tendency for a decrease in serum protein and ionic calcium was the main laboratory finding. CONCLUSIONS: Centrifugation-based TPE is a safe and feasible therapy in dogs with IMHA and CVL. Attention should be given to hypocalcemia, the tendency toward hypoproteinemia, and secondary complications such as the occurrence of neurological signs.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40380160/