Dermatomyositis(DMS)
Also known as: Familial Canine Dermatomyositis · Familiäre Dermatomyositis · DMS bei Collies und Shelties · Canine Dermatomyositis · Ulcerative Dermatosis of Collies · …
Overview
What it is
Dermatomyositis is an inherited, immune-mediated disease where the dog's immune system mistakenly attacks its own skin and underlying muscles, causing chronic inflammation. This condition primarily affects the blood vessels supplying these tissues, leading to tissue damage. It is most frequently diagnosed in Collies and Shetland Sheepdogs.
How it presents
Symptoms typically appear between 2 and 6 months of age, starting with skin redness, hair loss, and crusting around the eyes, ears, and paws. In severe cases, owners may also notice muscle wasting, which can cause difficulty swallowing and weight loss.
Treatment
This is an incurable condition requiring lifelong management with anti-inflammatory medications, immune-suppressing drugs, and protection from UV light. Lifetime treatment costs generally range from €1,500 to €8,000 depending on the severity of the disease.
How it's tested
Dermatomyositis (DMS) DNA-Test(DMS)
Primary testDNA testDer DNA-Test analysiert drei spezifische Genorte (LAA, FAM124B und PAN2), um das genetische Risiko für die Entwicklung einer Dermatomyositis bei Collies und Shetland Sheepdogs zu bestimmen.
Issuing body: Embark
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 Dermatomyositis?
Dermatomyositis is an inherited, immune-mediated disease where the dog's immune system mistakenly attacks its own skin and underlying muscles, causing chronic inflammation. This condition primarily affects the blood vessels supplying these tissues, leading to tissue damage. It is most frequently diagnosed in Collies and Shetland Sheepdogs.
How is Dermatomyositis tested?
Tests currently in our database: Dermatomyositis (DMS) DNA-Test.
Which breeds are most affected?
Most commonly affected: American Collie, Rough Collie, Smooth Collie, Australian Cattle Dog, British Collie, Kuvasz, Shetland Sheepdog, Chow Chow.