Leukocyte Adhesion Deficiency Type I (CLAD) - Irish Setter

Canine leukocyte adhesion deficiency (CLAD) is a lethal recessive autosomal immunodeficiency disease in Irish Setters. The condition of CLAD is characterized by recurrent infections, impaired wound healing and impaired leucocyte bactericidal activity. Puppies usually die very early from recurrent and multiple infections of the lungs and the skin. The signs are often confused with those of non-specific infections, making it difficult to diagnose the condition and to assess the extent of penetration of the mutant allele into the local population. The condition is characterized by a decreased production of b-2 integrin, a cell surface receptor that is critical for cell–cell and cell extracellular matrix interactions, due to the missense mutations in its gene (ITGB2).

Inheritance: autosomal recessive

Mutation: ITGB2 gene

Genetic test: The method used for testing is extremely accurate and allows complete differentiation between affected animals, carriers and healthy dogs. Testing can be done at any age.