Overview
A number of test are available for the Hungarian Vizsla. Two or more of these tests purchased as part of this bundle will be discounted.
- Cerebellar Cortical Degeneration associated with the SNX14 gene
- Hyperuricosuria associated with the SLC2A9 gene
- Neonatal Cerebellar Cortical Degeneration (NCCD) associated with the SPTBN2 gene
Cerebellar Cortical Degeneration
Cerebellar cortical degeneration (CCD) has been reported in many breeds. Clinical signs typically include head tremors, delayed or absent reflexes, and uncoordinated movements (Ataxia). Clinical signs first become apparent at around 3 months old and become progressively more severe over weeks to months. There is no treatment or cure and affected dogs are often euthanised due to poor quality of life concerns.
Hyperuricosuria
The SLC2A9 gene codes for a protein that allows the kidneys to transport uric acid from the urine. Dogs with mutations in both copies of the SLC2A9 gene are predisposed to have elevated levels of uric acid in the urine, hence the name hyperuricosuria. Dogs with hyperuricosuria most commonly present with symptoms of recurrent urinary tract inflammation, which include frequent urination, blood in the urine, and straining to urinate. They may also have loss of appetite, lethargy, weakness, vomiting and pain. Urinary stones in the bladder can cause urinary tract infections or more seriously, blockage of the Urethra.
Both male and female dogs can be affected, but due to differences in their anatomy obstruction of urine flow is more common in males. Although an x-ray can be used to exclude other types of stones, urate stones cannot typically be seen using x-rays and must be evaluated by ultrasound. Not all dogs with mutations in both copies of the SLC2A9 gene will have symptoms of disease, thought they will have increased uric acid excretion in the urine.
Neonatal Cerebellar Cortical Degeneration
Cerebellar cortical degeneration, also known as cerebellar abiotrophy, is a disease characterised by clinical signs of cerebellar dysfunction, such as ataxia-dysmetria, broad based stance, loss of balance and intentional tremors. Affected puppies start showing clinical signs around 3 weeks of age. They are slower and less coordinated than unaffected puppies, falling more often and unable to walk in a correct manner. Signs include tremor, ataxia (inability to coordinate the movement of muscles) and spastic paralysis.
