Principal Investigator: Robert A. N. Goggs

DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): 

Dogs with immune-mediated hemolytic anemia (IMHA) are at-risk for thrombosis which likely contributes to both morbidity and mortality. Evidence is emerging that neutrophil extracellular trap (NET) formation and hypofibrinolysis may combine to contribute to blood clot formation in IMHA through a process termed immunothrombosis. This study aims to determine which dogs with IMHA are at highest risk of immunothrombosis, by simultaneously measuring markers of NET formation, analyzing coagulation parameters and assessing fibrinolysis potential. Correlations between biomarkers of NET formation and hemostatic parameters, and their ability to predict thrombosis or survival will be assessed.  Through quantification of biomarkers of NET formation combined with assessments of coagulation and fibrinolysis, this research may enhance our understanding of the pathogenesis of thrombosis in IMHA and improve the targeting of antithrombotic medications to dogs that will benefit the most.