SELENOP-related cerebellar ataxia(CACA)
Also known as: Cerebellar ataxia (SELENOP) · SELENOP ataxia · Spinocerebellar ataxia SELENOP-related · SELENOP-assoziierte zerebelläre Ataxie · CNS atrophy with cerebellar ataxia · …
Overview
What it is
This is an inherited neurological disease, often referred to as CACA in Belgian Shepherds, caused by a genetic mutation in the SELENOP gene. This defect leads to progressive damage to the cerebellum, which is the region of the brain responsible for coordinating physical movements. Without a properly functioning cerebellum, a dog cannot control its balance or coordinate its limbs.
How it presents
Symptoms typically appear in young puppies between 6 and 12 weeks of age. Owners will notice an unsteady, wobbly gait, frequent loss of balance, and body tremors that rapidly worsen.
Treatment
There is no cure or effective treatment to stop the progression of this disease, and supportive care or diagnostic confirmation typically costs between 300 and 1500 EUR. Because of the severe impact on the puppy's quality of life, humane euthanasia is unfortunately the standard recommendation.
How it's tested
SELENOP-assoziierte zerebelläre Ataxie DNA-Test(SELENOP)
Primary testDNA testEin DNA-Test zum Nachweis der ursächlichen Mutation im SELENOP-Gen, die für die erbliche zerebelläre Ataxie verantwortlich ist.
Issuing body: Labogen
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 SELENOP-related cerebellar ataxia?
This is an inherited neurological disease, often referred to as CACA in Belgian Shepherds, caused by a genetic mutation in the SELENOP gene. This defect leads to progressive damage to the cerebellum, which is the region of the brain responsible for coordinating physical movements. Without a properly functioning cerebellum, a dog cannot control its balance or coordinate its limbs.
How is SELENOP-related cerebellar ataxia tested?
Tests currently in our database: SELENOP-assoziierte zerebelläre Ataxie DNA-Test.
Which breeds are most affected?
Most commonly affected: Groenendael.