Prognostic indicators for canine monocytic ehrlichiosis

In order to identify prognostic factors for survival in canine monocytic ehrlichiosis (CME), clinical records of 40 cases of CME were retrospectively studied. The dogs were assigned as survivors (n = 21) and non-survivors (n = 19), and their signalment, anamnesis, clinical and clinicopathological signs, and treatment protocols were compared. Pale mucous membranes, bleeding tendencies and weakness were more prevalent in the non-survivors compared to the survivors. Dogs in the non-survivor group had significantly lower white blood cell (WBC), hematocrit (HCT), and platelet (PLT) counts. Pronounced pancytopenia (WBC < 4 × 10³ μL^-1; HCT < 25%; PLT < 50 × 10³ μL^-1) was found as a risk factor for mortality. In this study, severe leucopenia (WBC < 0.93 × 10³ μL^-1), severe anemia (PCV < 11.5%), prolonged activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT > 18.25 s) and hypokalemia (K < 3.65 mmol/L) were each found to predict mortality with a probability of 100%. In contrast, WBC counts above 5.18 × 10³ μL^-1, platelet counts above 89.5 × 10³ μL^-1, PCV > 33.5%, APTT < 14.5 s and serum potassium concentration above 4.75 mmol/L, each provided 100% prediction for survival. These prognostic indicators can be easily obtained at presentation, are inexpensive, and may be useful aids when treatment and prognosis are being considered.