Acral Mutilation Syndrome(AMS)
Also known as: Hereditary Sensory Neuropathy · HSN · Sensory Neuropathy · Hereditary Sensory Autonomic Neuropathy · HSAN
Overview
What it is
Acral Mutilation Syndrome is an inherited neurological disorder that affects the sensory nerves responsible for transmitting pain signals from the limbs to the brain. Because of this genetic defect, affected dogs cannot feel pain in their paws and lower legs. This lack of sensation leads to a loss of protective reflexes in these areas.
How it presents
Symptoms typically appear in puppies between 3 and 12 months of age, starting with obsessive licking, biting, and chewing of their own paws. This self-destructive behavior quickly leads to severe, open wounds, infections, and the loss of claws or toes.
Treatment
This condition is incurable, and because managing the self-mutilation is extremely difficult, euthanasia is often necessary. While temporary wound care, protective bandaging, and medications can cost between 1,000 and 5,000 EUR, they do not resolve the underlying neurological issue.
How it's tested
Labogen Komplettpaket (rassespezifisch)(Labogen-Panel)
Primary testDNA testRassespezifisches DNA-Panel (Labogen / Laboklin) — bündelt alle relevanten Erbkrankheiten der Rasse in einem Test.
Issuing body: Labogen
Result scheme: Clear/Carrier/Affected
Feragen Komplettpaket (rassespezifisch)(Feragen-Panel)
DNA testRassespezifisches DNA-Panel (Feragen, Österreich) — gleiches Konzept wie Labogen.
Issuing body: Feragen
Result scheme: Clear/Carrier/Affected
Embark Breed + Health Panel(Embark)
DNA testUS-Anbieter; 250+ genetische Erkrankungen + Abstammung. Anerkennung in DE/AT variiert je nach VDH-Verein.
Issuing body: Embark
Result scheme: Clear/Carrier/Affected
MyDogDNA Panel(MyDogDNA)
DNA testGenoscoper-basiertes Panel (Mars Petcare). 200+ Erkrankungen + Rassenkomposition.
Issuing body: MyDogDNA
Result scheme: Clear/Carrier/Affected
Affected breeds
6 of 6 breeds
Mandatory testBlue Picardy SpanielMandated by Verein für französische Vorstehhunde e.V. (VBBFL)
Mandatory testBraque de l'AriègeMandated by Verein für französische Vorstehhunde e.V.
Mandatory testBraque du BourbonnaisMandated by Verein für französische Vorstehhunde e.V. (VBBFL)
Mandatory testPont-Audemer SpanielMandated by Verein für französische Vorstehhunde – VBBFL e.V.
RecommendedGerman Shorthaired Pointer
OptionalCocker Spaniel
Treatment cost
Estimated range of typical treatment cost. Actual cost depends on severity, clinic and region.
Frequently asked
What is Acral Mutilation Syndrome?
Acral Mutilation Syndrome is an inherited neurological disorder that affects the sensory nerves responsible for transmitting pain signals from the limbs to the brain. Because of this genetic defect, affected dogs cannot feel pain in their paws and lower legs. This lack of sensation leads to a loss of protective reflexes in these areas.
How is Acral Mutilation Syndrome tested?
Tests currently in our database: Labogen Komplettpaket (rassespezifisch), Feragen Komplettpaket (rassespezifisch), Embark Breed + Health Panel, MyDogDNA Panel.
Which breeds are most affected?
Most commonly affected: Blue Picardy Spaniel, Braque de l'Ariège, Braque du Bourbonnais, Pont-Audemer Spaniel, German Shorthaired Pointer, Cocker Spaniel.