Disease overview

Episodic Falling Syndrome is a neuromuscular condition that causes spastic muscle contractions in response to stimuli such as exercise, stress, and excitement. This disease is caused by deficiency of brevican, a protein that is responsible for controlling aspects of specific neurons in the brain and spinal cord.

Gene name

BCAN

Inheritance

Autosomal recessive

Signs and symptoms

Early-onset clinical signs in young dogs may include sudden stiffening of the limbs, an arched back, and a loss of balance. These symptoms typically occur after stress, exercise, or excitement.

How is it diagnosed

A veterinarian will conduct a thorough exam, including a review of health history and any clinical signs. Clinical signs are typically non-specific, so additional diagnostics such as lab work and/or a neurological exam are required. Genetic testing is necessary to determine if there is an underlying genetic cause, which can assist veterinarians with diagnosis and help breeders identify affected and carrier dogs.

Breeds at higher risk

Citations

Gill JL, Tsai KL, Krey C, Noorai RE, Vanbellinghen JF, Garosi LS, Shelton GD, Clark LA, Harvey RJ. A canine BCAN microdeletion associated with episodic falling syndrome. Neurobiol Dis. 2012 Jan;45(1):130-6. doi: 10.1016/j.nbd.2011.07.014. Epub 2011 Jul 28. PMID: 21821125; PMCID: PMC3898273.

Rusbridge C. Neurological diseases of the Cavalier King Charles spaniel. J Small Anim Pract. 2005 Jun;46(6):265-72. doi: 10.1111/j.1748-5827.2005.tb00319.x. PMID: 15971896.

Disclaimer

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