THERAPEUTIC APPROACH AND CLINICAL MANAGEMENT PROTOCOLS IN THE TREATMENT OF ANEMIA IN DOGS

Abstract

Immune-mediated hemolytic anemia (IMHA) is a disease with high morbidity and mortality in dogs, characterized by the immune-mediated destruction of red blood cells by antibodies, and may be associated with chronic inflammatory processes. Another relevant condition is Precursor-Directed Immune-Mediated Anemia (PIMA), characterized by the immune system's attack on erythroid precursors in the bone marrow, compromising red blood cell production. This disease may be idiopathic in origin or associated with other systemic autoimmune diseases. This study aimed to review the main therapeutic protocols and clinical management strategies used in the treatment of anemia in dogs. To this end, a narrative literature review was conducted using the PubMed database, using the descriptors "Anemia" and "Dogs". The studies analyzed demonstrated that treatment is mainly based on the use of glucocorticoids, and the addition of immunosuppressants, such as azathioprine, cyclosporine, and mycophenolate mofetil, may be necessary, especially in refractory cases. Furthermore, alternative therapies, such as mesenchymal stem cells, intravenous immunoglobulin, and splenectomy, have shown promising results in patients unresponsive to conventional treatments. It is concluded that the therapeutic approach to anemia in dogs should be individualized, considering the etiology and clinical severity of each patient, with early diagnosis and intensive management being fundamental for a more favorable prognosis.