Abbreviated Name: SCID
Disease Description: A severe combined deficiency of cell-mediated immunity (T-cell function) and low levels of serum immunoglobulins (IgA, IgG, and variably IgM). Affected puppies usually die from viral infectins by 12-16 weeks of age. Seen in Basset hounds.
Inherit Mode: X-linked recessive
Disease Symptom: puppy born with severe combined immunodeficiency will present with symptoms typical of failure to thrive or fallen puppy syndrome. These puppies are unable to develop their own antibodies once maternal immune support is withdrawn according to appropriate developmental staging. Immediately vulnerable, these puppies are unable to sustain growth in the face of recurrent, devastating infections. Death typically occurs within three to four months of birth, even after consistent antibiotic treatment. Symptoms include: Retarded growth;Inability to gain weight or weight loss; Diarrhea;Vomiting; Lethargy ;Lack of palpable lymph nodes; Respiratory infections; Skin/eye/ear infections; Death within four months.
Disease Cause: Canine severe combined immunodeficiency is an X-linked recessive trait, meaning that only male puppies are directly impacted by the disease. However, female dogs are carriers and capable of passing the genetic mutations to their offspring.
Disease Diagnose: Affected puppies die from SCID, so diagnosis often occurs during necropsy. If the vet suspects an immune system disorder in a live puppy, an exam, blood testing, and an assessment of serum proteins is likely in order. If living, affected puppies will likely have been seen for a variety of infections. Testing the efficacy of antibiotics is helpful in establishing a diagnosis.
Treat Method: Unfortunately, severe combined immunodeficiency disease is incurable. Treatment options such as antibiotics are rarely successful in sustaining or improving the dog’s life. However, an experimental type of genetic therapy is currently being tested in puppies affected by inherited immunodeficiency disorders. Bone marrow transplants have also indicated some success, but due to high expense and the lack of specialists and treatment facilities, the surgery is mostly experimental.
Breeder Advice: -
Disease Description Source: Link