SCN8A-related spinocerebellar ataxia(SCA)
Also known as: SCN8A spinocerebellar ataxia · Spinozerebelläre Ataxie Typ SCN8A · SCN8A-SCA · Canine spinocerebellar ataxia SCN8A · Ataxia, spinocerebellar, SCN8A-related
Overview
What it is
This is an inherited neurological disorder affecting the brain and nervous system, caused by a genetic mutation that disrupts electrical signaling. This disruption leads to progressive damage in the cerebellum, which is the part of the brain responsible for coordinating voluntary movements. Without proper cerebellar function, a dog cannot control its balance or limb placement.
How it presents
Symptoms typically become visible in very young puppies between 2 and 8 weeks of age. Owners will notice severe balance issues, a wobbly or uncoordinated gait, and muscle tremors that worsen over time.
Treatment
There is no cure for this progressive condition, and management is limited to diagnostic testing and supportive care, typically costing between 300 and 1500 EUR. Because the disease severely impacts the puppy's quality of life, humane euthanasia is often necessary.
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 SCN8A-related spinocerebellar ataxia?
This is an inherited neurological disorder affecting the brain and nervous system, caused by a genetic mutation that disrupts electrical signaling. This disruption leads to progressive damage in the cerebellum, which is the part of the brain responsible for coordinating voluntary movements. Without proper cerebellar function, a dog cannot control its balance or limb placement.
How is SCN8A-related spinocerebellar ataxia 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.