Autoimmune (Immune-Mediated) Disease

Autoimmune Disease (also known as Immune-Mediated Disease) occurs when the pet’s immune system gets confused and starts attacking healthy cells by mistake. This can affect the skin, blood, joints, organs, or even the nervous system.

Examples include:

  • IMHA (Immune-Mediated Hemolytic Anemia) - the immune system destroys red blood cells, causing weakness and pale gums

  • IMTP (Immune-Mediated Thrombocytopenia) - the immune system attacks platelets which help blood clot, leading to bruising or bleeding

  • Pemphigus foliaceus - a skin condition that causes crusting, hair loss, and sores

Autoimmune diseases can be tricky to diagnose because symptoms vary depending on what part of the body is affected. Diagnostics can include blood tests, autoantibody tests like ANA (anti-nuclear antibody) or RF (rheumatoid factor) to detect immune system activity, and biopsies or imaging.

The main goal of treatment is to calm down an overactive immune system and often includes steroids, immunosuppressive drugs, and supportive care like fluids, special diets, and antibiotic medications.

Treatment is usually long-term, but many pets respond well and can live happy, comfortable lives with the right care.