Disease overview

Leonberger Polyneuropathy is characterized by nerve degeneration in the body, primarily in the hind limbs and in the larynx.

Gene name

ARHGEF10

Inheritance

Autosomal recessive

Signs and symptoms

Clinical signs of this neurological disease include weakness in the hind limbs, exercise intolerance, and/or loud respiration and difficulty breathing. Signs can develop as early as one year of age.

How is it diagnosed

A veterinarian will conduct a thorough exam, including a review of health history and any clinical signs. Clinical signs associated with this disease arise from different causes, such as inflammation, infection, or abnormal and excessive growth of tissue (neoplasia). 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

Ekenstedt KJ, Becker D, Minor KM, Shelton GD, Patterson EE, Bley T, Oevermann A, Bilzer T, Leeb T, Drögemüller C, Mickelson JR. An ARHGEF10 deletion is highly associated with a juvenile-onset inherited polyneuropathy in Leonberger and Saint Bernard dogs. PLoS Genet. 2014 Oct 2;10(10):e1004635. doi: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1004635. PMID: 25275565; PMCID: PMC4183422.

Disclaimer

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