Trapped Neutrophil Syndrome (TNS)

Trapped neutrophil syndrome (TNS) is an autosomal recessive inherited neutropenia in the Border Collie breed. The disease, originally detected in Border Collies in Australia and New Zealand in the 1990's, is characterized by a marked reduction in numbers of neutrophils in peripheral blood and a hyperplasia of myeloid cells in bone marrow. Due to the severe neutropenia, affected dogs are consistently subject to life-threatening infections, resulting in premature death. However, a definitive diagnosis has been difficult because the original clinical characteristics except neutropenia have yet to be completely determined and the clinical features are often modified by chronic and recurrent infections.

Inheritance: autosomal recessive

Mutation: VSP13B 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.