This is a Blood condition.
Trapped Neutrophil Syndrome, TNS
What is TNS?
Neutrophils, a type of white blood cell that fights infections, are generated in the bone marrow. After an appropriate time to mature, they leave the bone marrow and enter the circulation. The neutrophils of dogs with TNS never fully mature, but remained "trapped" in various stages of immaturity in the bone marrow.
What are the signs & symptoms that develop in affected dogs?
The severity of TNS can vary, but infections can affect any of the body systems: musculoskeletal, respiratory, skin, gastrointestinal, and so forth. Fevers are common. They also have characteristic facial abnormalities including a narrow, elongated skull (described as "ferret-like") and are often smaller than unaffected littermates.
When do signs and symptoms develop?
Some puppies are brought to the vet within weeks for recurrent infections and failure to thrive, others are only diagnosed after reactions to the first set of vaccinations (6-8 weeks), and others go undiagnosed for years after treatment for mild recurrent infections.
How do vets diagnose this condition?
Genetic and laboratory testing along with clinical signs are used to diagnose this disease.
How is this condition treated?
Treatment is symptomatic and based on the body system that has the infection. There is no cure for the underlying cause of this disease.
What actions should I take if my dog is affected?
- Minimizing the risk of infection is the best way to keep your affected dog healthy for as long as possible.
