Disease overview

Polyneuropathy 2 is a non-painful condition characterized by degeneration of the nerves in the body, which leads to muscle loss.

Gene name

GJA9

Inheritance

Autosomal dominant

Signs and symptoms

Clinical signs of this disease include muscle atrophy, exercise intolerance, weakness, loud respiration, and/or difficulty breathing. Signs can develop as early as several months of age to as late as 11 years old.

How is it diagnosed

A veterinarian will conduct a thorough exam, including a review of health history and any clinical signs. Neurological tests, including imaging, may be required for a definitive diagnosis. Genetic testing is necessary to determine an underlying genetic cause.

Breeds at higher risk

Citations

Becker D, Minor KM, Letko A, Ekenstedt KJ, Jagannathan V, Leeb T, Shelton GD, Mickelson JR, Drögemüller C. A GJA9 frameshift variant is associated with polyneuropathy in Leonberger dogs. BMC Genomics. 2017 Aug 25;18(1):662. doi: 10.1186/s12864-017-4081-z. PMID: 28841859; PMCID: PMC5574090.

Disclaimer

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