Red Alert: Diagnosis and Management of IMHA
Immune-mediated hemolytic anemia (IMHA) is one of the most common and challenging hematologic emergencies in small animal practice. This course provides a practical, case-based approach to understanding the pathophysiology, clinical presentation, diagnosis, and management of IMHA in dogs and cats.
Participants will learn to recognize key clinical and laboratory findings, apply evidence-based diagnostic criteria, and implement effective treatment strategies, including immunosuppression and supportive care. Real-world case examples will be used to reinforce clinical reasoning, highlight common complications, and guide decision-making for both acute and long-term management.
By the end of this session, learners will be equipped with actionable tools to confidently diagnose and manage IMHA, improve patient outcomes, and communicate clearly with clients about this life-threatening, but often manageable, disease.
Upon completion of this session, participants will be able to:
- Describe red blood cell physiology and the pathophysiologic mechanisms that lead to IMHA
- Apply accepted diagnostic criteria for IMHA and become familiar with important resources
- Discuss treatment options for IMHA
- Identify common complications of IMHA and recognize adverse effects associated with therapeutic interventions
- Integrate case-based clinical reasoning into decision-making for patient management
