Complement 3 Deficiency, C3 Deficiency

Affected dogs have recurrent bacterial infections that can affect any part of their body. Skin and respiratory infections most commonly occur. When kidney disease develops, increased thirst (polydipsia), increased urination (polyuria), and decreased appetite are often observed.

Signs often first appear in puppies, and will continue throughout their life.

Genetic and laboratory testing along with clinical signs are used to diagnose this disease.

Appropriate antibiotic therapy when infections occur and consistent monitoring of kidney parameters are the key to managing this condition. Once kidney disease begins, prescription diets and fluid therapy are required. There is no cure for this disease.

Talk to your vet about your dog’s C3 deficiency result so you can work together to plan their ongoing care and monitoring.

Work closely with your vet to prevent and manage infections through regular checkups, good hygiene, and prompt care if your dog becomes ill.

Be cautious with activities that could cause injury or expose your dog to sources of infection, such as crowded dog parks or boarding facilities.

This mutation was first described in the Brittany Spaniel.

Penetrance: This condition is inherited in an autosomal recessive manner, meaning that a dog must have two copies of the mutation to be affected.

Gene

C3

Inheritance type

recessive

Clinical category

Immunologic

Citations

1. Ameratunga et al 1998
2. Quigg et al 1998
3. Johnson et al 1986

• Brittany