Disease overview

Ligneous Membranitis is a chronic blood condition that leads to the thickening of delicate tissue that lines various parts of the body. This is due to a mutation that causes decreased amounts of plasminogen, which is crucial for supporting anti-inflammatory processes.

Gene name

PLG

Inheritance

Autosomal recessive

Signs and symptoms

Signs can include chronic nasal discharge, conjunctivitis, and coughing. Tissues that line the heart and brain may be thickened, which causes permanent heart and brain damage.

How is it diagnosed

A veterinarian will review health history, conduct a thorough exam, and note any clinical signs. Genetic testing assists veterinarians with diagnosis and helps breeders identify affected and carrier dogs.

Breeds at higher risk

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Citations

Ainsworth S, Carter S, Fisher C, Dawson J, Makrides L, Nuttall T, Mason SL. Ligneous membranitis in Scottish Terriers is associated with a single nucleotide polymorphism in the plasminogen (PLG) gene. Anim Genet. 2015 Dec;46(6):707-10. doi: 10.1111/age.12339. Epub 2015 Sep 11. PMID: 26360520; PMCID: PMC5049608.

Turba ME, Ostan PC, Ghetti S, Dajbychova M, Dondi F, Gentilini F. A large deletion in the Plasminogen gene is associated with ligneous membranitis in a Maltese dog. Anim Genet. 2021 Oct;52(5):767-771. doi: 10.1111/age.13130. Epub 2021 Aug 9. PMID: 34370320; PMCID: PMC9290685.

Disclaimer

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