Stargardt disease(STGD)
Also known as: STGD1 · ABCA4-related retinal degeneration · Stargardt macular dystrophy · Morbus Stargardt · ABCA4 retinopathy · …
Overview
What it is
Stargardt disease is an inherited eye disorder where a genetic defect causes the progressive breakdown of photoreceptor cells in the retina, which is the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. This degeneration gradually impairs the eye's ability to process light and send visual signals to the brain. Over time, this leads to a slow and progressive loss of vision.
How it presents
Owners typically notice symptoms between 1 and 3 years of age, often starting with difficulty navigating in bright light or unfamiliar environments. While the condition is entirely painless, it leads to gradual, progressive blindness over several years.
Treatment
There is currently no cure or medical treatment to reverse this disease. Veterinary costs are generally limited to the initial diagnosis by an ophthalmologist and supportive care to help the dog adapt, typically ranging from 300 to 1200 EUR.
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)
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 Stargardt disease?
Stargardt disease is an inherited eye disorder where a genetic defect causes the progressive breakdown of photoreceptor cells in the retina, which is the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. This degeneration gradually impairs the eye's ability to process light and send visual signals to the brain. Over time, this leads to a slow and progressive loss of vision.
How is Stargardt disease 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?
This condition isn't tied to a specific breed in our database.