Pulmonary Hypoplasia Anasarca (PHA)

Affected animals (those with two copies of the recessive allele) are stillborn due to underdeveloped lungs (Pulmonary Hypoplasia) and swelling caused by excessive fluid retention (Anasarca). Associated dystocia can also lead to death of the cow. There are two causal variants for the PHA condition. One is referenced as the Shorthorn variant (PHA) and the other as the Dexter variant (PHAD). Samples submitted are tested for both variants, regardless of breed.

Over time, the number of animals affected by or carrying the PHA-Dexter variant has declined within the cattle population. This positive development reflects continued, responsible breeding practices that have reduced the overall impact of PHA in herds. However, as a result of fewer animals influenced by this variant, there are currently fewer reference samples available to confirm the accuracy of individual PHA-Dexter test results.

While this has led to a slight and temporary decrease in accuracy for the PHA-Dexter variant, we want to assure you that our team is actively working to restore normal service accuracy levels. Results for the PHA-Shorthorn variant remain unaffected and should be considered accurate.

As with all defect testing, we encourage you to review the pedigree of your animal(s) to assess any potential risk associated with the PHA-Dexter variant. Should you have any questions or wish to discuss your results further, our customer support team is available to assist.