Relationship between anemia, iron deficiency, and platelet production in dogs

Abstract

Platelet production increases in anemic people. In particular, iron deficiency causes reactive thrombocytosis in such patients. Although anemia and iron deficiency are frequently seen in dogs, there are no published studies on this subject. The aim of the present study was to investigate the relationship between anemia, iron deficiency, and platelet production in dogs. A total of 81 dogs brought to the university animal hospital with signs of anemia were used. Haemogram parameters, serum iron (Fe), erythropoietin (EPO), and thrombopoietin (TPO) levels, as well as total iron binding capacity (TIBC), were measured. Transferrin saturation (TSAT) ratios were calculated. The animals were categorized as anemic or non-anemic, mildly anemic or moderately/ severely anemic, and having iron deficiency or no iron deficiency according to haemogram parameters and the serum Fe level. A high platelet number was observed in dogs with mild anemia. Dogs with mild anemia also had higher serum EPO levels than dogs with moderate/severe anemia (P = 0.047). Iron deficiency was detected in 31 dogs. The platelet number was higher in dogs with iron deficiency (P = 0.004). It was also observed that dogs with iron deficiency had higher serum EPO levels (P = 0.027) and lower TPO levels (P = 0.025) than dogs without iron deficiency. In conclusion, it can be said that mild anemia and iron deficiency cause thrombocytosis in dogs. The increased serum EPO levels, both in dogs with mild anemia and those with iron deficiency, suggest that the increase in platelet production is due to EPO. Nevertheless, there is a need for further research to fully understand the underlying mechanism.