Anesthesia Sensitivity
Also known as: Anesthetic sensitivity · Anästhesieüberempfindlichkeit · Narkoseüberempfindlichkeit · Delayed anesthetic recovery · Pharmacogenetic anesthetic sensitivity
Overview
What it is
This condition is a genetically determined hypersensitivity to certain anesthetic drugs, often linked to the MDR1 gene mutation which impairs the body's ability to limit drug entry into the brain. Because the dog's nervous system and liver cannot process or clear these medications normally, the drugs can quickly build up to toxic levels. This primarily impacts the central nervous system and the cardiovascular system during medical procedures.
How it presents
Symptoms only appear during or immediately after a veterinary procedure requiring anesthesia, which can occur at any age during a dog's first exposure. An owner or veterinarian will notice an extremely prolonged recovery time, unstable heart rates, or a dangerous spike in body temperature.
Treatment
While the genetic predisposition itself cannot be cured, it is highly manageable by using alternative anesthetic protocols and specialized monitoring. Preparing for and managing these risks typically adds an extra 200 to 1500 EUR to the cost of necessary surgical procedures.
How it's tested
MDR1 DNA-Test(MDR1)
Primary testDNA testMulti-Drug-Resistance: Anlagenträger reagieren empfindlich auf gängige Medikamente. Standard bei Hütehunden.
Issuing body: Labogen
Result scheme: Clear/Carrier/Affected
Affected breeds
1 of 1 breeds
Treatment cost
Estimated range of typical treatment cost. Actual cost depends on severity, clinic and region.
Frequently asked
What is Anesthesia Sensitivity?
This condition is a genetically determined hypersensitivity to certain anesthetic drugs, often linked to the MDR1 gene mutation which impairs the body's ability to limit drug entry into the brain. Because the dog's nervous system and liver cannot process or clear these medications normally, the drugs can quickly build up to toxic levels. This primarily impacts the central nervous system and the cardiovascular system during medical procedures.
How is Anesthesia Sensitivity tested?
Tests currently in our database: MDR1 DNA-Test.
Which breeds are most affected?
Most commonly affected: Cirneco dell'Etna.