New research indicates that low platelet counts in Akitas may be more common than previously thought, suggesting that veterinarians should reassess how they interpret bloodwork in this breed. While a low platelet count often raises flags for conditions like immune-mediated thrombocytopenia, this study shows that such findings may not always indicate an underlying health issue.
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In a study analyzing Australian Akitas, 83% of the dogs evaluated exhibited platelet counts below the conventional threshold of 150 × 10⁹/L, yet none showed clinical signs of bleeding. Interestingly, automated analyzers consistently reported lower platelet counts compared to manual evaluations, which could lead to unnecessary alarm and misdiagnosis.
Thrombocytopenia associated with specific breeds is not a new phenomenon. It has been documented in breeds like Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, where fewer platelets are often accompanied by larger ones, known as macroplatelets. While some similar findings had been noted in Akitas in the United States, the current study aimed to investigate this in an Australian context, including whether platelet size significantly influences results.
The research studied 18 clinically healthy Akitas alongside 11 control dogs from Eastern Australia, utilizing automated hematology analysis, manual platelet counting, and blood film examination. Results showed a significant disparity between the Akitas and controls: all control dogs maintained platelet counts above the reference threshold. Despite a higher mean platelet volume in Akitas, only 11% exhibited macroplatelets, which is lower than the 9% found in the control group.
Additionally, differences in red blood cell parameters were noted, with Akitas displaying lower mean corpuscular volume and other related metrics compared to control dogs. Notably, the study found no significant differences in platelet counts between American and Japanese Akitas, suggesting that this thrombocytopenia pattern may not be breed-specific within the Akita population.
Veterinarians should take these findings into account when faced with low platelet counts in otherwise healthy Akitas, as they may not indicate a need for treatment of immune-mediated disease. Manual confirmation of platelet counts and thorough examination of blood films are essential for accurate diagnosis. Although this study involved a small sample size, its findings highlight the importance of considering breed-specific hematological traits when evaluating canine health.
The study titled “Asymptomatic thrombocytopenia in Akitas: a prospective cross-sectional study of platelet characteristics in an Eastern Australian population” underscores that low platelet counts in Akitas do not necessarily point to immune-mediated thrombocytopenia.