Disorder - Immunodeficiency

Organ Systems Involved
Immune

Presenting Signs

Primary immunodeficiency disease is caused by an inherited defect in the immune system. These immunodeficiencies are typically specific to breed and vary in their modes of inheritance. Cats with primary immunodeficiency commonly have repeated respiratory, ear, gastrointestinal or skin infections, and may have slowed growth and adverse reactions to modified live vaccines. They also may have infections with organisms that are usually harmless.

With reference to Persian cats, the Chediak-Higashi syndrome is a particular inherited disorder (autosomal recessive) characterised by increased sensitivity to light, partial albinism related to the skin and eye, tendency to haemorrhage and increased susceptibility to bacterial infections.

Cats at Risk

Primary immunodeficiency disorders are rare, occur in kittens or young adults, can be related to any gender of domestic cats and are associated with the blue smoke point in one particular breed.

Breeds Affected
Persian


Treatment

The severity of the defect determines the disease course and minor defects can be successfully managed. The patient should be monitored by routine clinical examination for clinical signs of secondary infection. Gamma globulin or plasma preparations can be used with antibiotics to control infection in patients with humoral defects.

PubMed References
Immunodeficiency

Contributor
Victoria Lee