Disease overview

Thrombocytopaenia is a blood condition that is characterized by low blood platelet count. Platelets play a major role in blood clotting, and normal levels of platelets support clotting activity to prevent further bleeding. When platelets are low, it can lead to excessive bruising or bleeding (especially in cases of physical trauma).

Gene name

TUBB1

Inheritance

Autosomal recessive

Signs and symptoms

This is a benign, asymptomatic condition that is not associated with any clinical signs.

How is it diagnosed

A veterinarian will review health history and conduct a thorough exam. Blood disorders are typically diagnosed by conducting routine complete blood count (CBC) test that evaluate the red blood cell and white blood cell components of blood. Blood coagulation tests that establish how long it takes for the blood to clot are helpful in diagnsosing thromboytopaenia. This may include taking blood samples and looking at them in a blood smear (drop of blood spread thinly onto a glass slide) under a microscope or with digital systems to count the number of platelets in a smear.

Breeds at higher risk

Citations

Davis B, Toivio-Kinnucan M, Schuller S, Boudreaux MK. Mutation in beta1-tubulin correlates with macrothrombocytopenia in Cavalier King Charles Spaniels. J Vet Intern Med. 2008 May-Jun;22(3):540-5. doi: 10.1111/j.1939-1676.2008.0085.x. Epub 2008 May 2. PMID: 18466252.

Pedersen HD, Häggstrom J, Olsen LH, Christensen K, Selin A, Burmeister ML, Larsen H. Idiopathic asymptomatic thrombocytopenia in Cavalier King Charles Spaniels is an autosomal recessive trait. J Vet Intern Med. 2002 Mar-Apr;16(2):169-73. doi: 10.1892/0891-6640(2002)016<0169:iatick>2.3.co;2. PMID: 11899033.

Gelain ME, Bertazzolo W, Tutino G, Pogliani E, Cian F, Boudreaux MK. A novel point mutation in the β1-tubulin gene in asymptomatic macrothrombocytopenic Norfolk and Cairn Terriers. Vet Clin Pathol. 2014 Sep;43(3):317-21. doi: 10.1111/vcp.12168. Epub 2014 Jul 24. PMID: 25060661.

Disclaimer

Disease diagnosis and treatment should always be performed by a veterinarian. The following information is for educational purposes only.