Health Condition

Canine Leukocyte Adhesion Deficiency

Canine leukocyte adhesion deficiency (CLAD) is a rare but severe inherited immunodeficiency disorder causing recurrent, life-threatening infections.

Detailed Description

CLAD is caused by a mutation in the ITGB2 gene, resulting in defective leukocyte function and recurrent, often fatal infections. Affected puppies typically fail to thrive and succumb to infections at a young age.

Common Symptoms

Recurrent infections
Poor wound healing
Failure to thrive

Management Options

Supportive care
Experimental bone marrow transplant

Frequently Asked Questions

Can CLAD be prevented?

Yes, through genetic testing and not breeding carriers.

Is there a cure?

No, only experimental treatments exist.

How common is CLAD?

Rare, but carriers are present in some breeds.

Condition Details

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Typical Age of Onset

Puppies (weeks to months)

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Testing Available

Yes

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Diagnosing Methods

Genetic testing; Clinical history; Blood tests

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Preventative Measures

DNA testing of breeding stock

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Related Conditions

Other immunodeficiencies, Severe infections

Affected Breeds

English Setter

Prevalence: 6% Severity: 5/5

CLAD is rare but breed-specific in English Setters, with a significant carrier frequency in some populations.

Irish Red and White Setter

Prevalence: 12% Severity: 5/5

CLAD is a breed-specific mutation in Irish Red and White Setters, with a carrier frequency of approximately 12% in UK populations. Affected puppies rarely survive past one year without experimental treatment.

Irish Setter

Prevalence: 0.1% Severity: 5/5

CLAD is a breed-specific, historically significant disease in Irish Setters, now rare due to genetic testing.

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