Becker muscular dystrophy(BMD)
Also known as: Becker-Muskeldystrophie · Dystrophin-deficient muscular dystrophy Becker type · Canine Becker muscular dystrophy
Overview
What it is
Becker muscular dystrophy is an inherited muscle disorder caused by a deficiency in dystrophin, a crucial structural protein that protects muscle fibers from damage during contraction. Without enough functional dystrophin, the dog's skeletal muscles progressively weaken and break down over time. This genetic condition is X-linked, meaning it primarily affects male dogs.
How it presents
Owners typically notice symptoms within the first year of life, including muscle weakness, a stiff or awkward gait, and difficulty swallowing. Affected dogs may also tire very quickly during normal exercise.
Treatment
There is no cure for this condition, and management requires lifelong supportive care to maintain quality of life. Treatment typically involves medications and physical therapy, with expected lifetime costs ranging from €3,000 to €12,000.
How it's tested
Muskeldystrophie (Becker-Typ) DNA-Test(BMD)
Primary testDNA testDieser Gentest identifiziert Mutationen im DMD-Gen, die für die fehlerhafte Synthese des Dystrophin-Proteins verantwortlich sind.
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 Becker muscular dystrophy?
Becker muscular dystrophy is an inherited muscle disorder caused by a deficiency in dystrophin, a crucial structural protein that protects muscle fibers from damage during contraction. Without enough functional dystrophin, the dog's skeletal muscles progressively weaken and break down over time. This genetic condition is X-linked, meaning it primarily affects male dogs.
How is Becker muscular dystrophy tested?
Tests currently in our database: Muskeldystrophie (Becker-Typ) DNA-Test.
Which breeds are most affected?
This condition isn't tied to a specific breed in our database.