Trapped Neutrophil Syndrome in Dogs

Category: Immune System
Inheritance: Autosomal recessive
Breeds documented: 1
Published sources: 3

Overview

An inherited shortage of neutrophils, a type of white blood cell, weakens the immune system and leaves affected dogs vulnerable to repeated infections. Puppies may grow more slowly than their littermates and show delays in development. Some also develop a narrow, elongated head and slender limbs. Signs can vary greatly, with mild cases sometimes going unnoticed until adulthood.

Signs to watch for

Repeated infections
Poor growth compared with littermates
Delayed development
Limping or an unusual walking pattern

Infections may begin at 6 weeks, although mild cases can go unnoticed until adulthood.

When to get help Arrange a vet visit for repeated infections, poor growth, or limping.

Diagnosis and tests

A DNA test checks for the known VPS13B gene change associated with this syndrome in Border Collies. It identifies dogs with two copies, dogs carrying one copy, and dogs without that variant. Blood tests may help the investigation, but a normal neutrophil count does not rule the syndrome out.

Breeds with documented risk

1 breed

By breed size

1 Medium

Border CollieMedium · Herding Group

Inheritance

Autosomal recessive
A dog is affected only if it inherits two copies of the gene variant, one from each parent. A dog with one copy is a carrier: usually healthy, but able to pass the variant on. When two carriers are bred, on average one puppy in four is affected. A DNA test can tell clear, carrier and at-risk dogs apart.
As stated by OMIA

We've gathered what published sources say about this condition, so you can talk it through with your vet. It isn't veterinary advice: you and your vet know your dog best.