ABSTRACT Immune-mediated thrombocytopenia (IMTP) is a life-threatening condition. Although it is not unheard of in felines, it is seen most commonly in canines (Donoghue, 2019). IMTP is a common disease in veterinary medicine and can affect any breed or age of dog but is most common in cocker spaniels, toy poodles, and middle-aged female dogs (Gorman, 2021). Management of IMTP includes immunosuppressive and steroid treatment alongside a range of nursing care considerations. It is important that, as veterinary nurses, we understand the underlying physiology of the disease in order to best treat it. This article will provide an overview of IMTP and highlight key aspects of nursing care we can put to use in practice.

Keywords IMTP, immune-mediated thrombocytopenia, platelets, haemostasis

Author: Ashley Johnson RVN

To cite this article: VNJ Volume 37 May 2022 pp. 23-27

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