Complement 3 Deficiency

Body function:

Immune & Autoimmune

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Complement 3 deficiency is an immune disorder that affects Brittany dogs. This disorder is caused by a genetic mutation in the C3 gene that prevents the production of protein complement component 3, a protein that helps fight bacterial infection. This leaves dogs susceptible to severe bacterial infections like urinary tract infections, pneumonia, and more. Dogs with C3 deficiency are also more susceptible to kidney disease.

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List of affected breeds:

Genetic research has linked this gene and condition in the following breeds:

Brittany

A brown dog with floppy ears is looking up at the camera with its mouth open and tongue out. The dog is standing in a field of tall grass.

What does this mean for a dog with this trait?

There is no known cure for complement 3 deficiency. Care includes treatment of infections and regular monitoring of kidneys. If kidney disease develops, treatment may include specialized diets and dialysis.

Symptoms

Dogs with complement 3 deficiency experience frequent and recurring bacterial infections, including skin infections, respiratory infections, and more. Dogs who experience kidney disease as a result of C3 deficiency may have drastic increases in thirst and urination, as well as decrease in appetite.

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