Delayed Postoperative Hemorrhage / DEPOH (SERPINF2-related) - Dog

What does this test detect?

This genetic test analyses the SERPINF2 variant c.605C>T for Delayed Postoperative Hemorrhage, DEPOH, delayed post-surgical bleeding and SERPINF2-related bleeding tendency in dogs.

What is DEPOH?

DEPOH is an inherited bleeding disorder in which a dog may appear to form normal clots during or shortly after a procedure, yet bleed later because clot stability is insufficient. The typical presentation is delayed bleeding one to several days after surgery, trauma or other tissue injury. Signs can range from wound bleeding and extensive bruising to more serious internal bleeding.

SERPINF2 encodes alpha-2-antiplasmin, an important inhibitor of fibrinolysis. When control of clot breakdown is less effective, a formed clot can be removed too quickly. This makes the test especially practical when surgical planning, neutering, dental work, biopsy or injury treatment is being considered.

Inheritance and result

The SERPINF2 c.605C>T variant is used within an autosomal dominant model with incomplete penetrance. One copy increases bleeding risk; two copies create a clearly higher-risk pattern. Not every dog with the variant bleeds after every procedure, but the genetic information makes planning and targeted precautions much stronger.

Practical value of this test

• The test helps owners, breeders and veterinarians identify dogs with increased DEPOH risk before a procedure.
• The result supports careful surgical planning, post-procedure observation and more targeted risk management.
• For breeders, it makes selection and mating plans more concrete in breeds where the variant occurs.
• In dogs with previous unexplained delayed bleeding, the test can provide genetic clarity for this specific risk.