Winnie...I don't really know what to say

[Marty]

Haven't updated for a while, so.. We've given her Procrit injections for a month now, and the first 2 weeks she perked up considerably, but then they lost their punch and her RBC started to drop. It was 22 today although liver and kidneys were fine, and the Vet was afraid she was bleeding internally from somewhere else. He also detected some jaundice. So he sent us for another ultrasound today (second opinion, Traci), which showed she was not. She said, like you, that there can be many causes for this, and we might do a bone marrow aspiration. She did a blood smear, which verified the fact that there were not enough immature RBC to justify using Procrit any longer...it's a marrow problem. Haven't t talked yet with our Vet to determine a course of action, but I know a small fortune has to drop in my lap to go much further.

On a good note, she is still eating well!

[Traci]

Was it her skin or the blood serum that your vet detected jaundice? Was the serum icteric (fat lipids in it)? But, liver enzymes were in normal range? Did the ultrasound reveal any masses near the liver or spleen?

If the vet can rule out a mass somewhere (like an internal bacterial cyst, or a cancerous mass near or on an organ), I would rule out immune-mediated problems, your vet could send serum off for this testing (to an outside lab). I think the bone marrow aspirate should be a last resort, but definately considered, and an ultimate testing method to rule out cancer. Not saying Winnie has this, Marty, just should be ruled out.

Winnie is in my thoughts and prayers, I hope the vet can get to the bottom of this in a timely manner.

[Marty]

Yes, there is something near the liver. Her RBC dropped again with her blood test today. The Vet offered this morning to do exploratory surgery with no guarantees that he can help or that she would even come out of it, but it won't wait until next week at the rate it's dropping. I can't bear to see her go downhill so many times, so we are going to do it tomorrow. I have mixed feelings about what I want to happen....

My daughter is coming in tonight, and DH's retirement ceremony is tomorrow also. I feel dragged through the mud...

[Traci]

Exploratory surgery has it's risks, but with all the epidodes Winnie has endured, there may be a possibility of something being found that was missed prior. Anesthesia may be a slight risk, ask your vet about that, and ask about a blood clotting factor test, or platelet test before proceeding with anesthesia. (might want to check heart function as well)

If your vet has a 24/7 facility, that would be best so he can monitor her and her recovery...you could still check in with him if you are obligated to attend DH's event, or even visit Winnie at the clinic later.

My thoughts and prayers are with Winnie and you, I know this is difficult on you...hang in there and try to have a positive attitude for her...

[k9Karen]

Sending good thoughts and prayers your way and hoping for answers.

good luck tomorrow!

[LisaLisa]

My heart goes out to you, Marty...Saying prayers that there is some good news tomorrow..

Lisa

[Marty]

Thanks all...I took her out for a short walk tonight and let her sniff to her heart's content, spent some quiet time with her and told her how much I loved her.. Really wanted to cook her steak, but that is not in her best interests.

I do have to go to DH's retirement ceremony...it's a combination of military and civil service, and it would not be right for me to not be there...