Dr. Becker Discusses Immune-Mediated Thrombocytopenia (IMT)

Immune-mediated thrombocytopenia (IMT) is a condition in which the body’s immune system destroys its own blood platelets. IMT is primarily a disease of middle-aged dogs, and while any breed can be affected, Poodles, Cocker Spaniels, and Old English Sheepdogs are predisposed. The disease is quite rare in cats.

Blood platelets are very important types of blood cells. They not only help blood to clot and seal holes in leaking blood vessels, they also produce biochemicals that make permanent repairs to those holes.

The exact cause of IMT is unknown, however, the condition can be triggered or exacerbated by vaccines, especially bacterins (such as lepto and Lyme vaccines) and adjuvanted killed vaccines (such as the rabies vaccine).

Most of the symptoms of IMT are bleeding-related, with spontaneous bruising being one of the most common.

Immune-mediated thrombocytopenia is a complex condition that varies from patient to patient, so treatment must be individualized. Most pets with IMT can live normally if they respond well to medical treatment.

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