Pure red cell aplasia in cats: 9 cases (1989-1997).

摘要

Medical records and smears of bone marrow aspirates from 9 cats examined at the Clinical Pathology Laboratory at Cornell University (USA) between 1989 and 1997 were reviewed to determine clinical features, laboratory test results, treatment and outcome of feline leukaemia virus (FeLV) -negative cats with pure red cell aplasia (PRCA). The cats that were between 8 months and 3 years old. Cats had 2- to 16-day histories of lethargy and anorexia, and a severe normocytic, normochromic to hypochromic, non-regenerative anaemia (haematocrit, Hct, range, 6 to 15%; reference range, 25 to 45%). Other haematologic values were generally within reference ranges. Consistent changes in biochemical profiles included high amino-transferase activities and hyperferraemia. Cats were seronegative for FeLV and feline immunodeficiency virus. Smears of bone marrow aspirates were characterized by absence of identifiable erythroid precursors and a high proportion of small lymphocytes. Abnormalities were not identified in megakaryocytes or myeloid cells. Treatment with immunosuppressive drugs (corticosteroids and cyclophosphamide or cyclosporin) resulted in resolution of anaemia within 3 to 5 weeks. Most cats required long-term treatment to maintain Hct within reference range and tended to relapse when treatment frequency or dosage was decreased (especially if done rapidly) or treatment was discontinued. It is concluded that PRCA is a rare syndrome in young FeLV-negative cats, and is characterized by severe non-regenerative anaemia and absence of erythroid cells in bone marrow. It is suggested that the condition requires prompt, aggressive, often long-term treatment with immunosuppressive drugs for resolution.