Disease overview

Fanconi Syndrome is an inherited disease that causes the tubules of the kidneys to malfunction. Tubules reabsorb water, electrolytes, and nutrients that are critical to normal metabolic function. In dogs with Fanconi syndrome, the tubules do not properly reabsorb electrolytes and nutrients, and instead allow them to ‘spill’ back into the urine and get expelled.

Gene name

FAN1

Inheritance

Autosomal recessive

Signs and symptoms

Affected dogs display a range of clinical signs depending on the severity of nutrient loss. Typical signs include excess thirst and urination. Dogs may exhibit weight loss, even if they are eating normally. Anorexia and lethargy are common signs. If affected at a young age, a dog may experience abnormal bone development.

How is it diagnosed

A veterinarian will conduct a thorough exam, including a review of health history and any clinical signs. Laboratory testing assesses kidney function. 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

Bommer NX, Brownlie SE, Morrison LR, Chandler ML, Simpson JW. Fanconi Syndrome in Irish Wolfhound Siblings. J Am Anim Hosp Assoc. 2018 May/Jun;54(3):173-178. doi: 10.5326/JAAHA-MS-6439. Epub 2018 Mar 20. PMID: 29558216.

Bax HA. Inventarisatie van het Fanconi-syndroom bij de Basenji hond in Nederland [Inventory of Fanconi syndrome in Basenji dogs in The Netherlands]. Tijdschr Diergeneeskd. 2005 Aug 15;130(16):472-4. Dutch. PMID: 16130757.

Disclaimer

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