Effect of desmopressin on immune-mediated haemorrhagic disorders due to canine monocytic ehrlichiosis: a preliminary study

To evaluate the possible use of desmopressin acetate (DDAVP) in haemorrhagic disorders consequent to canine monocytic ehrlichiosis (CME), three dogs infected by Ehrlichia canis, with a history of thrombocytopenia and recent bleeding, were studied. The dogs were administered desmopressin (1 mu g/kg b.w. s.c.) every 24 h on three occasions. Blood samples were collected immediately before, and after 2 and 48 h the first DDAVP administration, to assess haematological, clinical chemistry and clotting time parameters. Spontaneous bleeding stopped within 1 h after the first DDAVP injection. Buccal mucosa bleeding time (BMBT) was shortened from 9.6 to 2.3 min within 2 h after the treatment. A statistically significant increase in platelet PLT count and fibrinogen, and a statistically significant decrease of PT and aPTT were observed after DDAVP administration. The haemorrhagic disorders caused by CME appear to be quickly corrected by DDAVP administration, giving the clinician the time necessary to administer appropriate chemotherapy.