Sacral agenesis
Also known as: Sakralagenesie · Caudal regression syndrome · Sacral dysgenesis · Agenesie des Kreuzbeins · Kaudales Regressionssyndrom · …
Overview
What it is
Sacral agenesis is a congenital skeletal defect where the sacrum, which is the bone connecting the spine to the pelvis, and nearby vertebrae fail to develop properly or are completely missing. This malformation destabilizes the pelvis and can compress or damage the nerves in the lower spinal cord. Consequently, the nervous and musculoskeletal systems in the lower body are severely impacted.
How it presents
Symptoms are typically noticeable shortly after birth or during early puppyhood, manifesting as a shortened or missing tail, hind limb weakness or paralysis, and an unstable gait. Affected puppies also frequently experience urinary and fecal incontinence.
Treatment
There is no cure for this condition, meaning treatment is lifelong and focused on supportive care like physical therapy, mobility aids, and managing incontinence. Lifetime veterinary and supportive care costs typically range from €3,000 to €12,000.
How it's tested
Affected breeds
Treatment cost
Estimated range of typical treatment cost. Actual cost depends on severity, clinic and region.
Frequently asked
What is Sacral agenesis?
Sacral agenesis is a congenital skeletal defect where the sacrum, which is the bone connecting the spine to the pelvis, and nearby vertebrae fail to develop properly or are completely missing. This malformation destabilizes the pelvis and can compress or damage the nerves in the lower spinal cord. Consequently, the nervous and musculoskeletal systems in the lower body are severely impacted.
How is Sacral agenesis tested?
Various clinical and genetic tests are used depending on the breed and presentation.
Which breeds are most affected?
This condition isn't tied to a specific breed in our database.