Suspected hepatopathy and pancreatitis associated with mycophenolate mofetil use in a cat with immune-mediated haemolytic anaemia

• Published in: JFMS open reports Vol. 6; no. 1; pp. 2055116920905038 - 2055116920905043
• Main Authors: Kopke, Matthew A, Galloway, Pru E J
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Sage UK: London, England SAGE Publications 01.01.2020; Sage Publications Ltd; SAGE Publishing
• Subjects: Adverse reaction; Anemia; Case Report; hepatotoxicity; IMHA; immune-mediated haemolytic anaemia; immunosuppressive therapy; monitoring; mycophenolic acid; Pancreatitis; side effect; immunosuppressive therapy; side effect; Adverse reaction; hepatotoxicity; mycophenolic acid; monitoring; immune-mediated haemolytic anaemia; IMHA
• ISSN: 2055-1169; 2055-1169
• DOI: 10.1177/2055116920905038

Case summary A 5-year-old spayed female domestic shorthair cat was referred for severe anaemia. Findings on initial work-up were consistent with a diagnosis of idiopathic immune-mediated haemolytic anaemia. A combination of prednisolone and mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) was instituted. On revisit approximately 2 months later, red blood cell parameters were normal, but the plasma was described as icteric, prompting further investigation. Concurrent hepatopathy and pancreatitis were diagnosed, suspected as being adverse reactions to MMF, as has been reported with use of the drug in humans. Resolution of serum biochemistry abnormalities took approximately 2 months, following discontinuing MMF. At the time of writing, the cat remained clinically well 1 year after initial presentation. Relevance and novel information With increasing use of MMF as an immunosuppressive agent in cats, clinicians should be aware of both common and potentially rare adverse effects, such as those described herein. In addition, suitable monitoring tools need to be in place to facilitate early detection and appropriate management.