Bone Marrow Disease in Dogs

Bone marrow produces three types of cells: platelets, red blood cells and white blood cells. When these cells become diseased, it is considered a "primary" bone marrow disorder.

  1. Trapped Neutrophil Syndrome

    • This syndrome is commonly found in Border Collies. Known as TNS, bone marrow produces white blood cells (neutrophils), but the bloodstream fails to absorb the cells. Reactions to vaccinations, such as a fever, can help identify this disorder.

    Lymphocytic Leukemia

    • Leukemia is characterized by cancerous cells in the bone marrow. This disease can be classified as "acute" or "chronic," depending on the severity and the type of white blood cell that is attacked. Lymphocytic leukemia manifests in the lymph nodes.

    Myeloid Leukemia

    • Myeloid leukemia impacts the cells in bone marrow. It suppresses the dog's immune system, which can cause the marrow to malfunction. This disease does not create tumors but is spread easily throughout the body through blood circulation.

    Plasmacytomas

    • Plasmacytomas are plasma tumors. Plasma is the liquid suspension that contains blood cells. These tumors do not usually occur in the bone marrow but instead present typically on the skin. They most often occur in older dogs.

    Thrombocytosis

    • An overproduction of platelet cells (beyond the normal count) and improper use or "clearance" of these cells can result in organ damage or malfunction. This is uncommon and is difficult to diagnose.