Polyneuropathy 2 (Leonberger)(LPN2)
Also known as: Leonberger Polyneuropathy Type 2 · GJA9 Polyneuropathy · Leonberger-Polyneuropathie Typ 2 · Inherited Polyneuropathy 2
Overview
What it is
Leonberger Polyneuropathy type 2 (LPN2) is a severe, inherited disease of the nervous system where the peripheral nerves—the nerves connecting the brain and spinal cord to the muscles—gradually degenerate. This degeneration disrupts the vital communication signals between the brain and the muscles, particularly affecting the limbs and the larynx, or voice box. Because it is inherited in an autosomal-dominant pattern, a dog only needs to inherit one copy of the mutated gene to be at risk of developing the condition.
How it presents
Symptoms typically appear between 1 and 10 years of age, starting with changes in the dog's bark, noisy breathing, and weakness or wobbliness in the hind legs. As the disease progresses, owners will notice visible muscle wasting and increasing difficulty with movement.
Treatment
LPN2 is incurable, requiring lifelong supportive care such as physiotherapy to manage symptoms. In cases of severe respiratory distress, surgery to widen the airway may be necessary, with overall treatment costs typically ranging from €1,000 to €5,000.
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
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 Polyneuropathy 2 (Leonberger)?
Leonberger Polyneuropathy type 2 (LPN2) is a severe, inherited disease of the nervous system where the peripheral nerves—the nerves connecting the brain and spinal cord to the muscles—gradually degenerate. This degeneration disrupts the vital communication signals between the brain and the muscles, particularly affecting the limbs and the larynx, or voice box. Because it is inherited in an autosomal-dominant pattern, a dog only needs to inherit one copy of the mutated gene to be at risk of developing the condition.
How is Polyneuropathy 2 (Leonberger) tested?
Tests currently in our database: Labogen Komplettpaket (rassespezifisch), Feragen Komplettpaket (rassespezifisch), Embark Breed + Health Panel, MyDogDNA Panel.
Which breeds are most affected?
Most commonly affected: Leonberger.