Selective IgA deficiency of German Shepherd Dogs

Description

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 approapriate immune response and more susceptible to infection and alleric conditions. It has been suggested that the deficiency in IgA is linked to other disease syndromes such as deep pyoderma, 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.

Signalment

German Shepherd dogs.

Diagnosis

Clinical Signs

Clinical signs depend on the level of deficiency but include a high susceptibility to infection, respiratory, gastrointestinal and dermatological conditions. Lethargy, annorexia and failure to thrive are other signs of the condition.

Treatment

Treatment involves the use of antibiotics for recurrent infections.

γ-Globulin and plasma preparations should not be given because affected patients have high anti-IgA antibodies and may go into anaphylaxis. Affected animals should not be allowed to breed.

Prognosis

The condition cannot be cured but patients with mild defects can be managed. Secondary infections or symptoms should be addressed where possible.

References

• Blood, D.C. and Studdert, V. P. (1999) Saunders Comprehensive Veterinary Dictionary (2nd Edition) Elsevier Science
• Merck & Co (2008) The Merck Veterinary Manual (Eighth Edition) Merial
• Nelson, R.W. and Couto, C.G. (2009) Small Animal Internal Medicine (Fourth Edition) Mosby Elsevier
• Tilley, L.P. and Smith, F.W.K.(2004)The 5-minute Veterinary Consult (Third edition) Lippincott, Williams & Wilkins