Disease overview

Epillocytosis is a benign disease that affects red blood cell (RBC) shape. The red blood cells are elongated, oval, or elliptical in shape instead of the normal round and biconcave shape. The cause of this disease can be hereditary or acquired.

Gene name

SPTB

Inheritance

Autosomal dominant

Signs and symptoms

This is a benign disease that does not carry any signs or symptoms.

How is it diagnosed

A veterinarian can take a blood sample and examine the red blood cells in a blood smear.

Breeds at higher risk

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Citations

Di Terlizzi R, Gallagher PG, Mohandas N, Steiner LA, Dolce KS, Guo X, Wilkerson MJ, Stockham SL. Canine elliptocytosis due to a mutant beta-spectrin. Vet Clin Pathol. 2009 Mar;38(1):52-8. doi: 10.1111/j.1939-165X.2008.00092.x. Epub 2008 Oct 28. PMID: 19228356.

Disclaimer

Disease diagnosis and treatment should always be performed by a veterinarian. The following information is for educational purposes only.