Glanzmann thrombasthenia / GT 1 (ITGA2B GTe11) - Horse

Glanzmann thrombasthenia in horses

This genetic test detects the ITGA2BGTe11 variant, a 10-bp deletion that causes Glanzmann thrombasthenia type 1 in horses. The condition is also known as Glanzmann disease, Glanzmann thrombasthenia or inherited platelet dysfunction.

In affected horses, platelets do not function properly to stop bleeding. This can lead to prolonged or recurrent bleeding, including nosebleeds, bleeding from skin or mucous membranes, gum bleeding, purpura and sometimes gastrointestinal bleeding.

Practical value of this test

• N/N: the horse does not carry the tested GTe11 variant.
• N/GTe11: the horse is a carrier and can pass the variant on.
• GTe11/GTe11: this genotype causes Glanzmann thrombasthenia type 1.

Glanzmann thrombasthenia is inherited as an autosomal recessive disorder. The test helps distinguish clear, carrier and affected animals, supports breeding selection and gives useful information for managing horses with an inherited bleeding risk.