Disease overview

Trapped Neutrophil Syndrome is a hereditary immune condition that causes neutrophils, which are white blood cells crucial for fighting infection, to become trapped in the bone marrow. This leads to low levels of neutrophils in the blood.

Gene name

VPS13B

Inheritance

Autosomal recessive

Signs and symptoms

Due to their compromised immune systems, affected dogs can suffer from chronic infections. They are often smaller and have some growth abnormalities. Dogs typically show signs at an early age, around 6 weeks, but some do not show signs until 2 years of age.

How is it diagnosed

A veterinarian will conduct a thorough exam, including a review of health history and any clinical signs. Laboratory testing will show neutropenia or low neutrophil numbers. Genetic testing is necessary to determine if there is an underlying genetic cause, which can assist veterinarians with diagnosis and help breeders identify affected and carrier dogs.

Breeds at higher risk

Citations

Shearman JR, Wilton AN. A canine model of Cohen syndrome: Trapped Neutrophil Syndrome. BMC Genomics. 2011 May 23;12:258. doi: 10.1186/1471-2164-12-258. PMID: 21605373; PMCID: PMC3128065.

Disclaimer

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