What is the normal white blood count (WBC)? What does an elevated white count indicate?
The normal white blood count in the dog is 6-17. An elevated white count indicates a possible infection, very common in AIHA dogs because of the suppressed immune system. Q: What are reticulocytes and why are they important? A: The reticulocyte is the stage just before an immature erythrocyte (red blood cell) becomes a mature red blood cell. It is a little larger than a mature red blood cell and because it contains small fragments of DNA and other materials has a bluish-red coloration. Reticulocytes are important in evaluating anaemia; if we see lots of them, it may mean that the body is compensating by releasing the cells too early, but is also encouraging in that the body is able to compensate. Q: What is a Coombs test? A: The Coombs test is the blood test that confirms the diagnosis of AIHA. Its results are either positive or negative. This test should be done at the time AIHA is suspected, however some dogs with AIHA will be Coombs negative.
