Related Experiment Videos
Platelet dysfunction associated with immune-mediated thrombocytopenia in dogs
A T Kristensen1, D J Weiss, J S Klausner
1Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Minnesota, St. Paul.
Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine
|September 1, 1994
Summary
In dogs with immune-mediated thrombocytopenia (ITP), circulating antibodies significantly inhibit platelet aggregation. This suggests that antibodies in ITP may cause both platelet destruction and dysfunction.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Immunology
- Hematology
- Canine Pathology
Background:
- Immune-mediated thrombocytopenia (ITP) is a condition characterized by low platelet counts.
- The role of platelet dysfunction in canine ITP is not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effect of antiplatelet antibodies on in vitro platelet function in dogs with ITP.
- To determine if circulating antibodies contribute to platelet dysfunction in canine ITP.
Main Methods:
- Platelet aggregation was assessed in vitro using platelet-rich plasma from healthy dogs.
- Serum and purified IgG fractions from dogs with ITP and healthy controls were added.
- Aggregation responses to adenosine diphosphate, thrombin, and collagen/epinephrine were measured.
Main Results:
- Serum from 13 of 15 ITP dogs significantly inhibited platelet aggregation.
- The IgG fraction from 9 of 10 ITP dogs suppressed platelet aggregation.
- A polyclonal rabbit anti-dog platelet antiserum also inhibited aggregation.
Conclusions:
- Many dogs with ITP have circulating antibodies that inhibit platelet aggregation.
- These antibodies may contribute to platelet dysfunction in addition to platelet destruction.
- Further research into antibody-mediated platelet dysfunction in canine ITP is warranted.