Multiple autoimmune diseases syndrome
Also known as: Multiples Autoimmunsyndrom · Multiple autoimmune syndrome · Canine multiple autoimmune disease · Polyautoimmunität · Systemic autoimmune disease in dogs
Overview
What it is
This syndrome occurs when a dog's immune system mistakenly identifies its own healthy tissues as foreign threats and attacks multiple organs or systems at the same time or in sequence. Because it involves several distinct autoimmune diseases, it can affect various parts of the body simultaneously, including the skin, joints, and blood vessels. This widespread immune malfunction leads to chronic, systemic inflammation.
How it presents
Owners may notice a wide range of symptoms such as persistent skin sores, swollen or painful joints, unexplained fevers, and extreme tiredness. These signs typically first appear in young to middle-aged adult dogs.
Treatment
This condition is incurable and requires lifelong management with immunosuppressive medications and regular veterinary check-ups. Lifetime treatment costs typically range from €3,000 to €15,000 depending on the dog's size and the severity of the flare-ups.
How it's tested
Affected breeds
Treatment cost
Estimated range of typical treatment cost. Actual cost depends on severity, clinic and region.
Frequently asked
What is Multiple autoimmune diseases syndrome?
This syndrome occurs when a dog's immune system mistakenly identifies its own healthy tissues as foreign threats and attacks multiple organs or systems at the same time or in sequence. Because it involves several distinct autoimmune diseases, it can affect various parts of the body simultaneously, including the skin, joints, and blood vessels. This widespread immune malfunction leads to chronic, systemic inflammation.
How is Multiple autoimmune diseases syndrome tested?
Various clinical and genetic tests are used depending on the breed and presentation.
Which breeds are most affected?
This condition isn't tied to a specific breed in our database.