IMHA is a critical disease where the immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys the body's own red blood cells. The rapid destruction leads to severe anemia and oxygen starvation.
This condition requires veterinary attention.
If your animal shows the Key or Common signs listed, please visit a clinic immediately. This is a life-threatening emergency.
Report Case / Get HelpAutoimmune. Triggers can include drugs, vaccines, or cancer, but most are idiopathic.
Rapid onset of weakness, pale or yellow (jaundiced) gums, and dark urine (bilirubin). Risk of throwing fatal blood clots (embolisms) is high.
CBC shows anemia + spherocytes + agglutination (clumping). A Coombs test confirms immune antibodies.
Aggressive immunosuppression (Prednisone, Cyclosporine), blood transfusions, and blood thinners (to prevent clots).
None known.
Guarded. Mortality is 30-50% in the first two weeks due to clots.
Medical DisclaimerThis information is for education only and does not replace examination, diagnosis, or treatment by a qualified veterinarian.