Leukocyte adhesion deficiency (LAD3) is a rare canine autosomal recessive disorder characterised by failure of activation of beta 1–3 type integrins, expressed on haematopoietic cells. That results in bleeding diathesis, while leukocyte count remains normal. The symptoms start to show at around 6 months of age and include abnormal bleeding, dental disease, pyrexia, lameness and infections, such as deep pyoderma, pododermatitis, gingivitis and cellulitis, often accompanied with high fever. Affected dogs usually have to be euthanised due to severe risk of infections and risk of bleeding to death.

Inheritance: autosomal recessive - read more

Mutation: FERMT3 gene

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

Disease control: read more

DNA test sample: EDTA whole blood (1.0 ml) or buccal swabs. Detailed information about sampling can be found here.