Department of Clinical Medicine, College of Veterinary Science, Sri Venkateswara Veterinary University, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad – 500 030 (Andhra Pradesh)
Online published on 24 January, 2012.
Epistaxis also termed as nose bleed caused by simple trauma or by upper respiratory tract infections is a common disorder in dogs that is frequently regarded as an emergency. Nasal discharge with fresh blood or clots along with respiratory distress, weakness and hematuria were the prominent manifestations among all the dogs and seizures among few. Significantly low (P<0.05) levels of mean Total Erythrocyte Count, Hemoglobin and Packed Cell Volume with leukopenia and thrombocytopenia were haematological findings along with increased (P<0.05) gamma glutamine transaminase, alanine amino transferase, alkaline phosphatase, lactate dehydrogenase, total serum proteins and globulins but with decreased albumins were the significant biochemical alterations among all the affected dogs compared to apparently healthy ones. Presence of intracellular rickettsial organisms in the monocytes of 14/19 dogs, confirmed the cause of epistaxis. Splenomegaly, hepatomegaly with engorgement of vessels were the significant abnormal ultrasonographic findings. Whereas, two of these that were negative for ehrlichia organisms, also revealed a significantly low thyroid profile suggesting hypothyroid associated coagulative disorder as the cause. Therapy with doxycyline and thyroxine along with other supportive drugs helped improve the condition and complete clinical recovery.
Diagnosis, dog, epistaxis, therapy
