SUMMARY: Researchers are investigating a promising new way to diagnose hemolytic anemia in cats.
THE PROBLEM: Anemia is common in sick cats. Causes of anemia are diverse and include hemolytic anemia. In HA, the cat's immune system destroys red blood cells, leading to the development of anemia. Infections, oxidative damage, or autoimmune diseases can trigger HA. However, finding the cause of HA is only sometimes possible. The inaccuracies of existing tests hinder the diagnosis of HA in cats.
THE PROJECT: Carboxyhemoglobin (COHb) levels in the blood increase during exposure to carbon monoxide. Sources of carbon monoxide exposure include burning fossil fuels, fires and tobacco smoke. Under normal conditions, blood COHb levels are low. However, COHb significantly increases in HA.
In humans, COHb is an accurate marker of HA. It increases in babies and adults with HA of various causes. COHb level measurement helps differentiate HA cases from other causes of anemia, allowing for timely treatment. In recent studies, researchers showed the utility of COHb in diagnosing dogs with HA. In this study, the team wants to know if the same holds for cats.
POTENTIAL IMPACT: This work might offer a useful diagnostic tool for cat hemolytic anemias, which clinicians could apply in a clinical setting to inform management decisions. COHb, a reliable marker of HA, can also be used to study the mechanisms of anemia associated with other diseases.
Study ID
D24FE-804
Study Status
Active
Grant amount awarded
$12,583
Grant recipient
The Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Israel
Study country
Israel
Investigator
Ran Nivy, BSc., DVM, Dip. ECVIM-CA (Internal Medicine)