Disease overview

Laryngeal Paralysis and Polyneuropathy is an inherited condition that affects the brain and spinal cord. Laryngeal paralysis is caused by degeneration of the nerves and muscles that move components of the larynx. Polyneuropathy is caused by dysfunction of the major nerves that come from the body.

Gene name

CNTNAP1

Inheritance

Autosomal recessive

Signs and symptoms

Clinical signs include labored breathing that is often noisy or raspy. Additional signs may include difficulty swallowing, changes in barking frequency and quality, high-stepping and uncoordinated gait, stumbling and tripping, exercise intolerance, and limb muscle atrophy.

How is it diagnosed

A veterinarian will conduct a thorough exam, including a review of health history and any clinical signs. Since clinical signs are non-specific, further testing is required. This may include a neurological exam and lab work. 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

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Citations

Letko A, Minor KM, Friedenberg SG, Shelton GD, Salvador JP, Mandigers PJJ, Leegwater PAJ, Winkler PA, Petersen-Jones SM, Stanley BJ, Ekenstedt KJ, Johnson GS, Hansen L, Jagannathan V, Mickelson JR, Drögemüller C. A CNTNAP1 Missense Variant Is Associated with Canine Laryngeal Paralysis and Polyneuropathy. Genes (Basel). 2020 Nov 27;11(12):1426. doi: 10.3390/genes11121426. PMID: 33261176; PMCID: PMC7761076.

Disclaimer

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