Basophilic Leukemia in a Dog

Basophilic leukemia with thrombocytosis was diagnosed in a 4-year-old Shih Tzu. This diagnosis was based on cyto-chemical staining and cytologic examination of blood and bone marrow smears. Hydroxyurea, an inhibitor of DNA synthesis, at a dose of 50 mg/kg PO bid induced hematologic remission after 7 days of treatment. Adverse effects observed included pruritus, erythema of the ventral abdomen, generalized alopecia, and possibly, diabetes mellitus. The dog remained in remission for 21 months before becoming lethargic, at which time the owners requested euthanasia but did not allow a necropsy.