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CODE: C112
INTRODUCTION:
DESCRIPTION
Canine Muscular Dystrophy is a general term that refers to a large group of inherited and progressively debilitating
muscle disorders characterized by degeneration of skeletal muscle. Clinical signs first appear at 6-9 weeks of age
and include progressive weakness, stiff gait, muscle atrophy and contractures. Serum creatine kinase (CK) levels are
markedly elevated and may be detected as early as 1-2 days of age. Characteristic morphologic lesions are present
in muscle biopsies including muscle necrosis, phagocytosis, regeneration, hypertrophy, endomysial fibrosis and
myofiber mineralization. Cardiomyopathy has consistently been present in X-linked MD and older dystrophic dogs may
die of heart failure.
INHERITANCE
X-linked recessive inheritance patterns of this disease have been described in Golden Retrievers.
DNA TEST
Clinically, the diagnosis of X-linked Canine Muscular Dystrophy is made by demonstrating a marked reduction in or
absence of the protein dystrophin by immunohistochemical and confirming by DNA testing. The DNA test is used for the
reliable identification of female dogs that do not carry mutant X chromosome. These "normal" females can
be bred to any male dog (even to an affected dog), which may be a desirable breeding prospect for other reasons.
BREEDS:
Golden Retriever
TEST RESULTS:
| Result |
Interpretation |
| Normal |
Normal females can be bred to any male. Normal males should be bred only to normal females.
Dog will never develop the disease. |
| Carrier |
Female is a carrier of one mutant X chromosome, but will never develop the disease. Only
female can be a carrier of disease. |
| Affected |
Affected males should be bred only to normal females. Affected females should not be bred.
Affected males and females will develop disease. |
SAMPLES:
Two types of samples can be submitted for this DNA test:
- A blood sample in a lavender (EDTA) tube;
- Cheek swabs - Order a Sample Collection Kit!
PRICE:
- $85.00 *
Special contract prices are available for Breeder Clubs. Please contact us for more information.
* - subject to the applicable taxes (5% GST Canadian Residents only)
CERTIFICATION OF RESULTS:
HealthGene will provide a certificate for each test result.
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