Polycystic kidney disease(PKD)
Also known as: Zystennieren · Autosomal Dominant Polycystic Kidney Disease · ADPKD · Nierenzysten bei Hunden · Polyzystische Nierenerkrankung (Bull Terrier) · …
Overview
What it is
This is an inherited genetic disorder where numerous fluid-filled sacs, called cysts, develop and multiply within the kidneys. Over time, these expanding cysts crowd out and destroy the surrounding healthy kidney tissue, preventing the organs from filtering waste products from the blood. This leads to a gradual, permanent decline in overall kidney function.
How it presents
Owners typically notice signs of kidney decline in middle-aged dogs, including increased drinking, more frequent urination, decreased appetite, and gradual weight loss. Because the cysts grow slowly, these symptoms usually only become visible after significant kidney damage has already occurred.
Treatment
There is no cure for this condition, meaning treatment is lifelong and focused on supportive care like specialized diets and medications to manage symptoms. Managing this chronic disease typically costs between €2,000 and €8,000 over the dog's lifetime.
How it's tested
PKD1 DNA-Test(PKD)
Primary testDNA testDer DNA-Test identifiziert die ursächliche Mutation im PKD1-Gen, welche für die Entstehung von Zystennieren verantwortlich ist.
Issuing body: Labogen
Result scheme: Clear/Carrier/Affected
Labogen Komplettpaket (rassespezifisch)(Labogen-Panel)
DNA 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 Polycystic kidney disease?
This is an inherited genetic disorder where numerous fluid-filled sacs, called cysts, develop and multiply within the kidneys. Over time, these expanding cysts crowd out and destroy the surrounding healthy kidney tissue, preventing the organs from filtering waste products from the blood. This leads to a gradual, permanent decline in overall kidney function.
How is Polycystic kidney disease tested?
Tests currently in our database: PKD1 DNA-Test, Labogen Komplettpaket (rassespezifisch), Feragen Komplettpaket (rassespezifisch), Embark Breed + Health Panel, MyDogDNA Panel.
Which breeds are most affected?
Most commonly affected: Bull Terrier, Miniature Bull Terrier.

