Immune System
Contributed By: Donna Hegstrom
W.H.W.T.C.A. Health Committee

Description: The Immune System is complex, confusing and operating at many levels. Its design is ingenious, with fail-safe and backup mechanisms working together to beat off infection and protect the dog from future attacks. When all systems are working properly, the dog will withstand infections, develop good immunity from vaccinations and destroy tumor cells before they destroy the dog. When attacked by disease bacteria or tetanus toxin, the immune system produces antibodies or antitoxins to fight them off or neutralize them, protecting the dog in the process.

Clinical Signs: Autoimmune diseases occur as a result of tissue injury caused by a specific immune reaction of the host to its own tissues. Since the immune system is complex and caries a diverse set of components, the clinical signs are complex as well. When the immunity goes wrong, auto immune diseases and allergies emerge. In autoimmune diseases, when the body attacks it's own tissues, kidney, liver and joint involvement can occur. Over the past few years, a large increase in liver disease has been found in the canine population. Allergies on the other hand are a more common example of immunity gone wrong, but are also on the increase.

Diagnosis: Blood work and a complete chemistry profile is the first step when immunity problems are suspected.

Treatment: Progress has been made in the treatment of autoimmune diseases. Although many remain incurable, research has given some hope for controlling these diseases. Allergies for the most part, do not have a life threatening component in comparison to autoimmune diseases. However the potential for discomfort and severe debility is significant. Control of allergies through diet is on the rise in addition to promising research involving new innovative treatments.

Mode of Inheritance: Although many autoimmune diseases are thought to be environmentally triggered, there is a genetic component which is being researched throughout the canine world. Many breeds record a high incidence of autoimmune disease and allergies. The West Highland White Terrier is thought to have both allergy and autoimmune disease, with the incidence of autoimmune on the rise. Caution should be taken in regard to feeding and vaccine protocols for the West Highland.



***Disclaimer***

Any information contained on this site relating to various medical, health, and fitness conditions of Westies and their treatment is for informational purposes only and is not meant to be a substitute for the advice provided by your own veterinarian. You should not use the information contained herein for diagnosing a Westie's health - you should always consult your own veterinarian.


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