Deafness, KLF7-related
Also known as: KLF7-related early-onset adult deafness · Early-onset adult deafness KLF7 · KLF7-assoziierte Taubheit · KLF7 hearing loss · EOAD KLF7
Overview
What it is
This is an inherited form of deafness associated with a genetic variant in the KLF7 gene, which affects the development of the inner ear's sensory hair cells responsible for hearing. Because it is a candidate gene variant with incomplete penetrance, not every dog carrying the variant will actually develop hearing loss. It is primarily researched in Australian Stumpy Tail Cattle Dogs and is inherited in an autosomal dominant pattern.
How it presents
Owners may notice that affected dogs do not respond to sounds, squeaky toys, or verbal commands, with signs typically becoming apparent during puppyhood or early adulthood. The hearing loss can affect one or both ears and may progress over time.
Treatment
There is no cure for this genetic deafness, and the hearing loss is lifelong. Management focuses on supportive care and hand-signal training, with associated costs typically ranging from 150 to 600 EUR for diagnostic testing and training aids.
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
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
Feragen Komplettpaket (rassespezifisch)(Feragen-Panel)
DNA testRassespezifisches DNA-Panel (Feragen, Österreich) — gleiches Konzept wie Labogen.
Issuing body: Feragen
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 Deafness, KLF7-related?
This is an inherited form of deafness associated with a genetic variant in the KLF7 gene, which affects the development of the inner ear's sensory hair cells responsible for hearing. Because it is a candidate gene variant with incomplete penetrance, not every dog carrying the variant will actually develop hearing loss. It is primarily researched in Australian Stumpy Tail Cattle Dogs and is inherited in an autosomal dominant pattern.
How is Deafness, KLF7-related tested?
Tests currently in our database: Labogen Komplettpaket (rassespezifisch), Embark Breed + Health Panel, MyDogDNA Panel, Feragen Komplettpaket (rassespezifisch).
Which breeds are most affected?
This condition isn't tied to a specific breed in our database.