Overview
A number of tests are available for the Staffordshire Bull Terrier. Two or more of these tests purchased as part of this bundle will be discounted.
- Degenerative Myelopathy associated with the SOD1 gene
- L-2-hydroxyglutaric aciduria associated with the L2HGDH gene
- Hereditary Cataract associated with the HSF4 gene
Degenerative Myelopathy
Important: Degenerative Myelopathy is a rare disease that presents most commonly in German Shepherd Dogs and Boxers, sporadically in Pembroke Welsh Corgis, Cardigan Welsh Corgis, Bernese Mountain Dogs, Rhodesian Ridgebacks, Borzoi and Chesapeake Bay Retrievers. It is rarely diagnosed in other breeds or mixed-breed dogs. DM is considered genetically complex and will have more than one contributing genetic variant. The variant targeted by this test is widespread and found in more than 120 breeds. However, association of the variant with the disease has only been shown in very few breeds and should never be used to inform breeding decisions, except where close relatives have been clinically diagnosed.
Canine degenerative myelopathy (previously also known as chronic degenerative radiculomyelopathy) is a progressive disease of the spinal cord in older dogs. Most dogs are at least 8 years old before clinical become apparent. DM usually starts with a muscle weakness, loss of muscle and loss of coordination (ataxia) in the hind limbs. Progression is generally quote slow, but dogs will eventually be crippled within approximately 3 years of the onset of disease.
L-2-hydroxyglutaric aciduria
L-2-hydroxyglutaric aciduria (L-2-HGA) is a neurometabolic disorder. Affected dogs have increased levels of L-2-hydroxyglutaric acid in urine, blood and cerebrospinal fluid, and this substance is toxic to the cells of the central nervous system. L-2-HGA produces a variety of clinical neurological deficits, including “wobbly” gait, tremors, seizures, muscle stiffness with exercise or excitement and changes in behaviour. Affected dogs begin to show signs of disease from around four months of age, but it can also be later. There is no cure or treatment for L-2-HGA.
Hereditary Cataract
Cataracts are a leading form of blindness in the dog. Cataracts associated with an HSF4 insertion appear early in life, within the first few weeks or months of life. The cataracts will progress to total blindness by 2-3 years of age and the only effective treatment is a surgical intervention.
