Progressive Retinal Atrophy, Generalized (Schapendoes)(PRA-g)
Also known as: Generalized Progressive Retinal Atrophy · gPRA Schapendoes · Progressive Retinaatrophie beim Schapendoes · gPRA-Schapendoes · Retinal Degeneration Schapendoes
Overview
What it is
This is an inherited eye disease affecting the retina, which is the light-sensitive layer at the back of the eye. In affected dogs, the photoreceptor cells that detect light gradually degenerate and die. Because these cells cannot recover, this process eventually leads to complete and irreversible blindness.
How it presents
Owners typically first notice night blindness, where the dog hesitates or bumps into objects in dim light, starting in young to middle-aged adulthood. Over time, daytime vision also deteriorates, eventually leading to total blindness.
Treatment
There is no cure to stop or reverse this condition, though it is painless for the dog. Lifetime costs range from 250 to 1200 EUR, which primarily cover veterinary ophthalmologist examinations and supportive aids to help the dog adapt to vision loss.
How it's tested
ECVO Augenuntersuchung (DOK)(ECVO-DOK)
Primary testEye examAugenuntersuchung durch ECVO-zertifizierten Augentierarzt (Dortmunder Kreis). Erkennt PRA, Katarakt, Entropium, CEA, MPP, RD u.a.
Issuing body: ECVO
Result scheme: Eye-ECVO
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
1 of 1 breeds
Treatment cost
Estimated range of typical treatment cost. Actual cost depends on severity, clinic and region.
Frequently asked
What is Progressive Retinal Atrophy, Generalized (Schapendoes)?
This is an inherited eye disease affecting the retina, which is the light-sensitive layer at the back of the eye. In affected dogs, the photoreceptor cells that detect light gradually degenerate and die. Because these cells cannot recover, this process eventually leads to complete and irreversible blindness.
How is Progressive Retinal Atrophy, Generalized (Schapendoes) tested?
Tests currently in our database: ECVO Augenuntersuchung (DOK), Labogen Komplettpaket (rassespezifisch), Feragen Komplettpaket (rassespezifisch), Embark Breed + Health Panel, MyDogDNA Panel.
Which breeds are most affected?
Most commonly affected: Dutch Schapendoes.