Canine Leukocyte Adhesion Deficiency (CLAD), type III

CLAD III results from leukocytes being unable to migrate to the site of inflammation and participate in the phagocytosis of pathogens due to impaired activation of beta integrins. Persistent leukocytosis (increased number of leukocytes in the blood) and platelet dysfunction are characteristic for the disorder. The typical onset of clinical signs is at the age of 6 months. Clinical signs include fever (pyrexia), increased mucosal hemorrhages, marked periodontal disease, poor wound healing, and lameness.

Therapy is targeted at treating secondary infections, preventing bleeding episodes, and supportive care. Affected dogs should be monitored closely for excessive and prolonged bleeding during and after any required surgical procedures or after any trauma. Blood or platelet transfusions may be necessary to control episodes of excessive bleeding.

There are many responsibilities to consider when breeding dogs. Regardless of test results it is important that your dog is in good general health and that you are in a position to care for the puppies if new responsible owners are not found. For first time or novice breeders, advice can be found at most kennel club websites.

This disease is autosomal recessive meaning that two copies of the mutation are needed for disease signs to develop. A carrier dog with one copy of the CLAD mutation can be safely bred with a clear dog with no copies of the CLAD mutation. About half of the puppies will have one copy (carriers) and half will have no copies of the CLAD mutation. Puppies in a litter which is expected to contain carriers should be tested prior to breeding. Carrier to carrier matings are not advised as the resulting litter may contain affected puppies. Please note: It is possible that disease signs similar to the ones caused by the CLAD mutation could develop due to a different genetic or clinical cause.