MECR-related polioencephalopathy(MEP)
Also known as: MECR-related necrotizing encephalopathy · Mitochondrial Encephalopathy · MECR-Polioenzephalopathie · MECR-MEP · Polioencephalopathy in Eurasiers · …
Overview
What it is
This condition is an inherited brain disorder caused by a genetic mutation that disrupts the mitochondria, which act as the energy-producing powerhouses within cells. Without adequate energy, nerve tissues in the brain and central nervous system progressively degenerate and die. This leads to severe, irreversible damage to the dog's neurological function.
How it presents
Symptoms typically appear during puppyhood or in young dogs and include uncoordinated movement, seizures, vision loss, and noticeable behavioral changes. These neurological signs worsen rapidly over a short period.
Treatment
There is no cure for this fatal condition, and supportive care to manage symptoms like seizures typically costs between 1000 and 3500 EUR. Due to the rapid and severe decline in quality of life, humane euthanasia is eventually required.
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 MECR-related polioencephalopathy?
This condition is an inherited brain disorder caused by a genetic mutation that disrupts the mitochondria, which act as the energy-producing powerhouses within cells. Without adequate energy, nerve tissues in the brain and central nervous system progressively degenerate and die. This leads to severe, irreversible damage to the dog's neurological function.
How is MECR-related polioencephalopathy 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.