Disease overview

Leukocyte adhesion deficiency, also known as LAD, is an autoimmune disease that is characterized by neutrophil adhesion defects and recurrent infections. In LAD, leukocytes are unable to leave the bloodstream and get to areas of potential infection to prevent its development.

Gene name

ITGB2

Inheritance

Autosomal recessive

Signs and symptoms

Cats with LAD will have persistent leukocytosis on bloodwork. They will also have a history of chronic bacterial infections, poor response to antibiotics, impaired healing, gastroenteritis, anterior uveitis, abscess formation, and possible sepsis.

How is it diagnosed

LAD is diagnosed with flow cytometry in a third party laboratory.

Breeds at higher risk

Current data does not indicate that specific breeds are at a higher riskю

Citations

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28750142/

Disclaimer

Disease diagnosis and treatment should always be performed by a veterinarian. The following information is for educational purposes only.