Visceral leishmaniasis and disseminated intravascular coagulation in a dog

A dog being treated with meglumine antimonate for leishmaniasis was examined because of anorexia, vomiting, diarrhea, weakness, and signs of abdominal discomfort. The history, physical examination findings, clinicopathologic abnormalities, and results of coagulation testing were compatible with a diagnosis of renal failure and disseminated intravascular coagulation. The signs of abdominal pain were most likely a result of microcirculatory obstruction. The cause of disseminated intravascular coagulation in this dog was not determined; however, visceral leishmaniasis could have been associated.