BASOPHILIC LEUKEMIA IN A DOG

Basophilic leukemia with thrombocytosis was diagnosed in a 4-year-old Shih Tzu. This diagnosis was based on cytochemical staining and cytolo gic examination of blood and bone marrow smears. Hydroxyurea, an inhib itor of DNA synthesis, at a dose of 50 mg/kg PO bid induced hematologi c remission after 7 days of treatment. Adverse effects observed includ ed pruritus, erythema of the ventral abdomen, generalized alopecia, an d possibly, diabetes mellitus. The dog remained in remission for 21 mo nths before becoming lethargic, at which time the owners requested eut hanasia but did not allow a necropsy.