Knobbed acrosome defect(KAD)
Also known as: Akrosomdefekt · Knobbed acrosome abnormality · Spermiendefekt
Overview
What it is
This is a structural malformation of the reproductive system in male dogs, specifically affecting the cap-like structure, called the acrosome, on the head of the sperm. The abnormal shape of this cap prevents the sperm from properly binding to and fertilizing a female's egg. While the dog remains completely healthy, this defect leads to male infertility.
How it presents
Owners will not notice any physical symptoms or changes in behavior, as affected dogs have normal energy and mating drive. The condition is typically discovered when the dog reaches breeding age and fails to produce offspring, or during a routine semen analysis.
Treatment
There is no treatment to correct this sperm defect, meaning affected dogs must be excluded from breeding. The only associated costs are for the diagnostic semen evaluation, which typically ranges from 100 to 300 EUR.
How it's tested
Spermiogramm(Spermiogramm)
Primary testClinical examDie Diagnose erfolgt über eine mikroskopische Ejakulatanalyse (Spermiogramm) zur Beurteilung der Spermienmorphologie, insbesondere der Struktur der Kopfkappe (Akrosom).
Issuing body: vet
Result scheme: Clear/Carrier/Affected
Affected breeds
Treatment cost
Estimated range of typical treatment cost. Actual cost depends on severity, clinic and region.
Frequently asked
What is Knobbed acrosome defect?
This is a structural malformation of the reproductive system in male dogs, specifically affecting the cap-like structure, called the acrosome, on the head of the sperm. The abnormal shape of this cap prevents the sperm from properly binding to and fertilizing a female's egg. While the dog remains completely healthy, this defect leads to male infertility.
How is Knobbed acrosome defect tested?
Tests currently in our database: Spermiogramm.
Which breeds are most affected?
This condition isn't tied to a specific breed in our database.