Disease Description: A condition where levels of secretory immune globulins are low. Common in Chinese shar peis and beagles

Inherit Mode: unknown.

Disease Symptom: Dogs with IgA deficiency usually have problems from a young age. They may have recurring skin, respiratory, gastrointestinal or urinary tract infections. The typical signs you might see include pustules and scratching, sneezing or nasal discharge, prolonged or recurring diarrhea, frequent or painful urination (cystitis - bladder infection). These dogs are also prone to develop allergies or immune-mediated disorders.

Disease Cause: -

Disease Diagnose: Your veterinarian may suspect an immune deficiency if your dog is having recurring or frequent infections, especially of the skin. S/he will take a blood sample to measure your dog's immunoglobulin levels, which will show reduced or absent IgA.

Treat Method: The various infections, allergies, or autoimmune disorders associated with IgA deficiency are treated as required. Different treatments to stimulate the immune system itself have been tried with varying success. For the veterinarian:Staphylococcal phage lysate andPropionibacterium acnes vaccine are 2 immunomodulating agents which have been shown to enhance antibody production, and assist in the treatment of recurrent staphylococcal pyodermas in dogs.

Breeder Advice: Affected animals should not be bred, and it is prudent to avoid breeding close relatives as well.

Disease Description Source: Link