IgA deficiency of German Shepherd dogs is a breed specific lack or reduction of immunoglobulin A caused by a heritable defect in the immune system. Dogs which are affected are unable to mount an appropriate immune response and are more susceptible to infection and allergic conditions. It has been suggested that the deficiency in IgA is linked to other disease syndromes such as deep pyoderma, [[Inflammatory Bowel Disease|inflammatory bowel disease]], anal furunculosis and disseminated [[aspergillosis]]. The condition is poorly understood and the links between IgA deficiency and other conditions has not been fully documented. | IgA deficiency of German Shepherd dogs is a breed specific lack or reduction of immunoglobulin A caused by a heritable defect in the immune system. Dogs which are affected are unable to mount an appropriate immune response and are more susceptible to infection and allergic conditions. It has been suggested that the deficiency in IgA is linked to other disease syndromes such as deep pyoderma, [[Inflammatory Bowel Disease|inflammatory bowel disease]], anal furunculosis and disseminated [[aspergillosis]]. The condition is poorly understood and the links between IgA deficiency and other conditions has not been fully documented. |