Peripheral neuropathy(PN)
Also known as: Polyneuropathy · Periphere Neuropathie · Inherited Polyneuropathy · Sensorimotor Neuropathy · Alaskan Malamute Polyneuropathy · …
Overview
What it is
This is a genetic disorder affecting the peripheral nervous system, which consists of the nerves connecting the brain and spinal cord to the rest of the body. In affected dogs, the protective outer coating of these nerves degrades, disrupting the electrical signals sent to muscles and organs. This leads to progressive muscle weakness and loss of coordination.
How it presents
Owners typically notice symptoms in young dogs, often starting with an abnormal, wobbly gait, weakness in the hind legs, and exercise intolerance. As the disease progresses, it can cause muscle wasting and breathing difficulties or a raspy bark due to paralysis of the vocal cords.
Treatment
There is no cure for this progressive condition, and treatment is limited to supportive care like physiotherapy to maintain mobility. Managing the symptoms over the dog's lifetime typically costs between €1,500 and €6,000.
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
Periphere Neuropathie (PN) DNA-Test(PN)
Primary testDNA testDieser DNA-Test identifiziert die ursächliche Mutation im NDRG1-Gen, die zu einer fortschreitenden Degeneration der peripheren Nerven führt.
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 Peripheral neuropathy?
This is a genetic disorder affecting the peripheral nervous system, which consists of the nerves connecting the brain and spinal cord to the rest of the body. In affected dogs, the protective outer coating of these nerves degrades, disrupting the electrical signals sent to muscles and organs. This leads to progressive muscle weakness and loss of coordination.
How is Peripheral neuropathy tested?
Tests currently in our database: Labogen Komplettpaket (rassespezifisch), Periphere Neuropathie (PN) DNA-Test, Feragen Komplettpaket (rassespezifisch), Embark Breed + Health Panel, MyDogDNA Panel.
Which breeds are most affected?
Most commonly affected: Dalmatian, Dobermann, Alaskan Malamute.