Our Summary

This research paper looks at the use of splenectomy - which is the surgical removal of the spleen - in treating dogs with immune-mediated hemolytic anemia (IMHA), immune-mediated thrombocytopenia (ITP), or both. These are conditions where the dog’s own immune system starts to attack its own red blood cells or platelets, leading to anemia or a low platelet count. The study included 17 dogs from seven different UK hospitals and evaluated the success of splenectomy in managing these conditions. The results showed that most of the dogs with ITP responded well to splenectomy, with six out of seven dogs showing improvement. For dogs with IMHA, the results were mixed, with only four out of seven dogs showing improvement after having their spleen removed. The study couldn’t conclude if splenectomy was beneficial for dogs with both IMHA and severe thrombocytopenia.

FAQs

  1. What is a splenectomy and why is it used in treating dogs?
  2. What were the results of the study on the effectiveness of splenectomy in treating dogs with immune-mediated thrombocytopenia (ITP)?
  3. Did the study find splenectomy to be effective in treating dogs with both immune-mediated hemolytic anemia (IMHA) and severe thrombocytopenia?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about splenectomy is to be aware of the potential risks and benefits of the procedure. It is important for patients to discuss with their doctor the reasons for undergoing a splenectomy, the expected outcomes, and any potential complications that may arise. Patients should also be informed about the importance of following post-operative care instructions and attending follow-up appointments to monitor their recovery and overall health. Additionally, patients who have had their spleen removed should be educated about the increased risk of certain infections, such as pneumonia and meningitis, and the importance of receiving vaccinations and taking preventive measures to protect their health.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended splenectomy are those with immune-mediated hemolytic anemia (IMHA), immune-mediated thrombocytopenia (ITP), or both. These conditions are characterized by the immune system attacking the body’s own red blood cells or platelets, leading to anemia or low platelet count. In cases where medical management is not successful in controlling the symptoms or where the condition is severe and life-threatening, splenectomy may be recommended as a potential treatment option. The decision to proceed with splenectomy is usually made on a case-by-case basis by the treating veterinarian after considering the patient’s overall health status and the potential risks and benefits of the procedure.

Timeline

Before splenectomy:

  1. Patient presents with symptoms of immune-mediated hemolytic anemia (IMHA) or immune-mediated thrombocytopenia (ITP), such as lethargy, pale gums, jaundice, and/or bruising.
  2. Patient undergoes diagnostic tests, such as blood work, ultrasound, and/or biopsy to confirm the diagnosis.
  3. Patient may receive medical treatment, such as corticosteroids, immunosuppressive drugs, and/or transfusions to manage the condition.

After splenectomy:

  1. Patient undergoes surgical removal of the spleen to treat the underlying immune-mediated condition.
  2. Patient may experience some post-operative pain and require pain management medications.
  3. Patient is monitored closely for any complications, such as infection or bleeding.
  4. Patient may need to receive vaccinations and antibiotics to prevent infections, as the spleen plays a role in the immune system.
  5. Patient may require ongoing medical management to control the underlying immune-mediated condition, such as continued use of corticosteroids or immunosuppressive drugs.
  6. Patient may experience improvement in symptoms and blood work results following splenectomy, but long-term prognosis may vary depending on the individual case.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the potential risks and complications of undergoing a splenectomy procedure?
  2. How will the removal of my spleen affect my immune system and overall health?
  3. What alternative treatment options are available for my condition besides splenectomy?
  4. How long is the recovery period after a splenectomy surgery?
  5. Will I need to take any medications or make lifestyle changes after having my spleen removed?
  6. How often will I need to follow up with you after the surgery for monitoring and evaluation?
  7. Are there any long-term consequences or side effects of living without a spleen?
  8. How will the absence of my spleen impact my risk of infection and illness in the future?
  9. Will I need any vaccinations or preventive measures to protect my health after the surgery?
  10. Can you provide me with information or resources for support groups or organizations for individuals who have undergone a splenectomy?

Reference

Authors: Bestwick JP, Skelly BJ, Swann JW, Glanemann B, Bexfield N, Gkoka Z, Walker DJ, Silvestrini P, Adamantos S, Seth M, Warland J. Journal: J Vet Intern Med. 2022 Jul;36(4):1267-1280. doi: 10.1111/jvim.16469. Epub 2022 Jul 7. PMID: 35801263