Severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID)(SCID)
Also known as: Severe Combined Immunodeficiency · X-linked Severe Combined Immunodeficiency · XSCID · Autosomal Recessive Severe Combined Immunodeficiency · PRKDC-SCID · …
Overview
What it is
Severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID) is an inherited genetic defect of the immune system, specifically linked to the X chromosome. It prevents the dog's body from producing functional white blood cells, known as T and B lymphocytes, which are essential for fighting off infections. Without these defense cells, affected puppies are completely vulnerable to even common environmental bacteria, viruses, and fungi.
How it presents
Symptoms typically begin around three weeks of age as maternal antibody protection wears off. Owners may notice persistent diarrhea, stunted growth, and recurring skin, ear, or respiratory infections that do not respond to antibiotic treatment.
Treatment
There is no cure for this condition, and it is unfortunately fatal. Veterinary care is focused on supportive care or humane euthanasia, with typical costs ranging from €300 to €1,500 for initial diagnostics and palliative treatment.
How it's tested
Labogen Komplettpaket (rassespezifisch)(Labogen-Panel)
Primary testDNA testRassespezifisches DNA-Panel (Labogen / Laboklin) — bündelt alle relevanten Erbkrankheiten der Rasse in einem Test.
Issuing body: Labogen
Result scheme: Clear/Carrier/Affected
SCID (PRKDC) DNA-Test(SCID)
Primary testDNA testEin molekularbiologischer DNA-Test zum Nachweis der ursächlichen Mutation im PRKDC-Gen, die zu schwerem kombiniertem Immundefekt führt.
Issuing body: Labogen
Result scheme: Clear/Carrier/Affected
X-SCID DNA-Test(X-SCID)
Primary testDNA testEin molekularbiologischer DNA-Test zum Nachweis der Mutation im IL2RG-Gen, die für die X-gebundene schwere kombinierte Immundefizienz (X-SCID) verantwortlich ist.
Issuing body: Embark
Result scheme: Clear/Carrier/Affected
Feragen Komplettpaket (rassespezifisch)(Feragen-Panel)
DNA testRassespezifisches DNA-Panel (Feragen, Österreich) — gleiches Konzept wie Labogen.
Issuing body: Feragen
Result scheme: Clear/Carrier/Affected
Embark Breed + Health Panel(Embark)
DNA testUS-Anbieter; 250+ genetische Erkrankungen + Abstammung. Anerkennung in DE/AT variiert je nach VDH-Verein.
Issuing body: Embark
Result scheme: Clear/Carrier/Affected
MyDogDNA Panel(MyDogDNA)
DNA testGenoscoper-basiertes Panel (Mars Petcare). 200+ Erkrankungen + Rassenkomposition.
Issuing body: MyDogDNA
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 Severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID)?
Severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID) is an inherited genetic defect of the immune system, specifically linked to the X chromosome. It prevents the dog's body from producing functional white blood cells, known as T and B lymphocytes, which are essential for fighting off infections. Without these defense cells, affected puppies are completely vulnerable to even common environmental bacteria, viruses, and fungi.
How is Severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID) tested?
Tests currently in our database: Labogen Komplettpaket (rassespezifisch), SCID (PRKDC) DNA-Test, X-SCID DNA-Test, Feragen Komplettpaket (rassespezifisch), Embark Breed + Health Panel, MyDogDNA Panel.
Which breeds are most affected?
Most commonly affected: Wetterhoun, Basset Hound, Cardigan Welsh Corgi.