Familial Nephropathy is a type of protein-losing nephropathy (PLN), which is a term used to describe kidney damage or disease. PLN leads to the inappropriate loss of protein through the urine. This disorder compromises the filtering function of the kidneys, allowing larger molecules and essential proteins to pass through instead of being retained for use by the body.
COL4A4
Autosomal recessive
Clinical signs typically present around 2-3 months of age, and progress rapidly. These can include muscle wasting, accumulation of fluids presenting as edema, excessive thirst, and excess urination. In cases of kidney failure, signs such as vomiting, poor appetite, lethargy, and changes in thirst and urination may occur.
A veterinarian will conduct a thorough exam, including a review of health history and any clinical signs. Diagnostics will likely include urine and blood testing. 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.
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Davidson AG, Bell RJ, Lees GE, Kashtan CE, Davidson GS, Murphy KE. Genetic cause of autosomal recessive hereditary nephropathy in the English Cocker Spaniel. J Vet Intern Med. 2007 May-Jun;21(3):394-401. doi: 10.1892/0891-6640(2007)21[394:gcoarh]2.0.co;2. PMID: 17552442.
Nowend KL, Starr-Moss AN, Lees GE, Berridge BR, Clubb FJ, Kashtan CE, Nabity MB, Murphy KE. Characterization of the genetic basis for autosomal recessive hereditary nephropathy in the English Springer Spaniel. J Vet Intern Med. 2012 Mar-Apr;26(2):294-301. doi: 10.1111/j.1939-1676.2012.00888.x. Epub 2012 Feb 28. PMID: 22369189.
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