Alexander disease(AxD)
Also known as: GFAP-related leukodystrophy · Alexander-Krankheit · Glial Fibrillary Acidic Protein Mutation · GFAP-related Alexander Disease · Leukodystrophie beim Labrador
Overview
What it is
Alexander disease is a progressive genetic disorder affecting the central nervous system, specifically the brain and spinal cord. It is caused by a malformation of the myelin sheath, which is the protective coating that insulates nerve fibers and allows signals to travel properly. Without this healthy insulation, the nervous system cannot transmit messages correctly, leading to severe neurological decline.
How it presents
Symptoms typically appear in puppies or young adults and include coordination issues, muscle weakness, stiffness, and rapidly worsening paralysis. Owners may first notice a clumsy gait or difficulty standing up.
Treatment
There is no cure for this condition, and treatment is limited to supportive care to keep the dog comfortable. Managing symptoms and diagnostic testing typically cost between 500 and 2500 EUR.
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
Treatment cost
Estimated range of typical treatment cost. Actual cost depends on severity, clinic and region.
Frequently asked
What is Alexander disease?
Alexander disease is a progressive genetic disorder affecting the central nervous system, specifically the brain and spinal cord. It is caused by a malformation of the myelin sheath, which is the protective coating that insulates nerve fibers and allows signals to travel properly. Without this healthy insulation, the nervous system cannot transmit messages correctly, leading to severe neurological decline.
How is Alexander disease tested?
Tests currently in our database: Labogen Komplettpaket (rassespezifisch), Feragen Komplettpaket (rassespezifisch), Embark Breed + Health Panel, MyDogDNA Panel.
Which breeds are most affected?
This condition isn't tied to a specific breed in our database.