Delayed Post-Operative Hemorrhage
What is Delayed Post-Operative Hemorrhage (DEPOHGEN)?
Delayed postoperative hemorrhage (DEPOH) is a disorder that causes excessive bleeding and bruising in the hours and days following surgical procedures.
Signs and symptoms typically occur starting one to four days after major surgery when blood clots begin to break down too soon. When the clot is destroyed (called hyperfribrinolysis) the wound begins to bleed again.
The severity of the bleeding can range from minor bruising to life-threatening hemorrhaging.
What is the Cause of DEPOHGEN and Which Breeds Does It Affect?
DEPOHGEN is inherited, meaning it is passed down from parents to their offspring. It is caused by a mutation that changes the alpha-2 antiplasmin protein (A2A). This protein stops the breakdown of blood clots. When A2A is mutated the body is not able to form a stable blood clot on a wound. This results in bleeding one to four days after the creation of a wound (whether through trauma, or surgery). The DEPOHGEN® mutation is common in Scottish deerhounds, greyhounds, and Irish wolfhounds; and has been discovered in other sighthound dog breeds like basenjis, Italian greyhounds, whippets, salukis, and borzois.
How Can You Test Your Saluki for the DEPOHGEN Mutation?
Dr. Michael Court, a veterinarian at Washington State University was able to identify the gene mutation which causes DEPOHGEN. The DEPOHGEN test detects the mutation and predicts the risk for bleeding after surgery. We now have a genetic test (DEPOHGEN) available to detect the mutation through WSU. Testing is recommended for ALL saluki and can be done on puppies as young as 6-8 weeks old. Testing helps us gain information on exactly how my Saluki have the DEPOHGEN mutation. Eventually, we can request that Embark and Wisdom add the DEPOHGEN test to their panel, saving time and money for all Saluki owners worldwide.
Testing can be performed with the following lab:
WSU Pharmacogenetics Lab - DNA required for DEPOHGEN® testing can be obtained either through a cheek swab or blood sample from your dog.
Instructions for Testing: - Using the link above go to the WSU website. If you are a New User, you must first create an account using a link at the bottom of the page. If you already have an account, log in. - Once you have created an account you may order the DEPOHGEN Test. - Pet owners who choose to submit a sample using a cheek swab will be sent two cheek swab brushes for DNA collection and a sample submission form in their test kit. - Veterinary clinics and hospitals can submit either blood (2 mL of whole blood in a purple top / EDTA tube) or DNA collection brush samples. The veterinarian will then print out the submission form on the WSU website and include it with the sample. Veterinarians will not be sent the test kit, as they will have the supplies on hand.
Test Results and Interpretation
Normal/Normal - do not have a any mutations and are able to form clots normally. Mutant/Normal - these dogs have ONE copy of the mutation, and may have alterations in how clots form, and have special recommendations for surgical procedures. They may transmit the mutant gene to 50% of their offspring. Matings between two carriers are predicted to produce 25% puppies with TWO copies of the mutation. Mutant/Mutant- these dogs have TWO copies of the mutation, and will have alterations in how clots form and have requirements for treatment prior to surgical procedures. These dogs will transmit the mutant gene to all of their offspring.
Treatment for Salukis with the DEPOHGEN Mutation
Fortunately, there are effective medications that can prevent and treat DEPOH in dogs that test positive with the DEPOHGEN® test. MUTANT/MUTANT - Prior to surgery administration medications to support clotting are given. Owners are given additional medication to give by mouth at home following surgery, and this is continued for 5 days. Diarrhea is occasionally observed which resolves after the medication is stopped. MUTANT/Normal - Treatment to support clotting before surgery is not needed for these dogs. But following surgery they should be monitored for signs of unexpected or excessive bleeding around the wound. This is most important during the first 24-48 hours. If signs any symptoms occur then medication should be given immediately and continued for 5 days.
Treatment Information For Veterinarians
Current Statistics From 05/26/2024
Normal/Normal- 46 dogs
Mutant/Normal- 45 dogs
Mutant/Mutant- 16 dogs