Delayed postoperative hemorrhage (DEPOH) is an autosomal dominant hereditary disorder with incomplete penetrance described in Scottish deerhounds. It is described by unexpected postoperative abnormal bleeding ranged from severe skin bruising around the surgical site to frank oozing of blood from the wound. The affected dogs show no defects in primary and secondary haemostasis, but have lower plasma alpha-2 antiplasmin activities compared to unaffected dogs. Alpha-2 antiplasmin is crucial for inhibition of plasmin, which uninhibited can breakdown fibrin blood clots, causing abnormal bleeding. Affected dogs can be treated with prophylactic antifibrinolytic drugs, which are effective in preventing DEPOH.

Inheritance: autosomal dominant - incomplete penetrance

Mutation: SERPINF2 gene

Genetic test: The method used for genetic testing is extremely accurate and allows complete differentiation between affected animals, carriers and healthy dogs. DNA testing can be done at any age.

DNA test sample: EDTA whole blood (1.0 ml) or buccal swabs. Detailed information about sampling can be found here.