Clinicopathologic aspects of acute leukemias in the dog

Nineteen cases of canine acute leukemia were diagnosed during a 4-year period. Two main categories were identified on the basis of cytologic, hematologic, and clinical features: acute lymphoid leukemia and acute myelogenous leukemia. Clinical features included history of weight loss, anorexia, shifting limb lameness, and incoordination. Physical findings were characterized by hepatomegaly, splenomegaly, mild generalized lymphadenopathy, and pallor. Ocular lesions were found in 29% of dogs with acute myelogenous leukemia. Hematologic abnormalities included anemia, thrombocytopenia, pancytopenia, leukemia, and leukoerythroblastic reactions. Results of therapy were discouraging.