Evaluation of platelet parameters in dogs with uncomplicated pituitary-dependent hyperadrenocorticism

Among dogs with hyperadrenocorticism (HAC), thrombocytosis is frequently reported and is considered to be associated with a hypercoagulable state. Substantial and easily accessible haematological evidence such as platelet count (PLT), plateletcrit (PCT), mean platelet volume (MPV) and platelet distribution width (PDW) indicating hypercoagulability may serve as a basis for considering therapeutic management. This study was performed on 22 dogs diagnosed with uncomplicated pituitary-dependent hyperadrenocorticism (PDH). Twelve dogs were assigned to the control group by computer-based randomisations. A series of standard clinical procedures in all dogs, including clinical examination, blood analyses, urinalysis and abdominal ultrasonography were performed. Platelet-related indices such as PLT, PCT, MPV and PDW were also evaluated at the time of admission in all dogs. Dogs were excluded if they had a secondary disease or hypertension (≥160 mmHg). Although no statistical significance was present, PLT, PCT and PDW were higher in PDH dogs compared to healthy controls. In addition, MPV was lower in PDH dogs (P < 0.05). In conclusion, exhausted bone marrow activity associated with the chronicity of HAC may demonstrate lower MPV values in dogs with PDH. Further studies evaluating the relationship between platelet parameters obtained by whole blood samples and PDH dogs are needed.