vWD is an recessive autosomal inherited disease in Doberman Pinschers. The gene causing the disease can be present on one or both of the chromosomes. Any Doberman may have two normal genes, be a carrier (one disease gene) or affected (two diseased genes). The affected disease state is characterized by a prolonged bleeding time and a deficiency in the clotting factor IX. Affected Dobermans should be closely monitored and may be pre-treated with coagulant drugs or given blood prior to surgery by your veterinarian. Any injury to an affected Doberman that may lead to bleeding needs to be closely monitored. Not all prolonged bleeding times are due to vWD and any case of prolonged bleeding should be discussed immediately with a veterinary professional.
Testing for vWD may be done by ELISA to detect the level of the Von Wilderbrand;s factor. The levels of the Von Willebrand’s factor as determined by the ELISA test is known to be affected by the health status and stress conditions of the Doberman. The normal range is from 70% to 180% for Dobermans. However, a more definitive test is now available from VetGen. It is a genetic test to detect the presence of the diseased gene on Doberman chromosomes. This test is not affected by a Doberman’s health or stress status.
For more information please visit the following web sites:
www.vetgen.com
www.vet.uga.edu/vpp/clerk/anderson/index.php