Mycobacterium avium complex(MAC)
Also known as: Mycobacterium avium complex susceptibility · MAC Susceptibility · Avian Tuberculosis Susceptibility · Meyco-Suszeptibilität · CARD9 deficiency
Overview
What it is
This is an inherited immune system disorder where a genetic defect prevents the body from fighting off a specific group of common environmental bacteria called the Mycobacterium avium complex. Normally, a healthy dog's immune system easily clears these bacteria, but affected dogs lack this defense, allowing the bacteria to spread and cause widespread infection.
How it presents
Symptoms typically begin to appear between 1 and 3 years of age. Owners may notice progressive weight loss, persistent fever, swollen lymph nodes, coughing, and general lethargy or weakness.
Treatment
There is no permanent cure for this condition, and management requires lifelong, complex antibiotic therapy. Treatment is often difficult and typically costs between 1,500 and 5,000 EUR, though the long-term prognosis remains poor.
How it's tested
Mycobacterium avium-Komplex (MAC) DNA-Test(MAC)
Primary testDNA testDer DNA-Test identifiziert die ursächliche Mutation im CARD9-Gen, welche die Anfälligkeit für Infektionen mit dem Mycobacterium avium-Komplex (MAC) bedingt.
Issuing body: Labogen
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 Mycobacterium avium complex?
This is an inherited immune system disorder where a genetic defect prevents the body from fighting off a specific group of common environmental bacteria called the Mycobacterium avium complex. Normally, a healthy dog's immune system easily clears these bacteria, but affected dogs lack this defense, allowing the bacteria to spread and cause widespread infection.
How is Mycobacterium avium complex tested?
Tests currently in our database: Mycobacterium avium-Komplex (MAC) DNA-Test.
Which breeds are most affected?
Most commonly affected: Affenpinscher, Miniature Schnauzer.