Disease overview

Cardiomyopathy is characterized by the degeneration of the heart muscle. The heart muscle becomes thin and the pressure of the blood inside the heart causes the thinner walls to stretch. This process results in abnormal heart enlargement. Cardiomyopathy can lead to heart failure and sudden death as early as 6-8 weeks of age.

Gene name

YARS2

Inheritance

Autosomal recessive

Signs and symptoms

Severe congestive heart failure. Early signs may include rapid, heavy breathing, a blue tongue, excessive drooling, or collapse. Prior to death, dogs may exhibit symptoms such as vomiting and/or muscle twitching.

How is it diagnosed

A veterinarian will review health history and conduct a thorough exam that includes clinical signs to help diagnose this condition. Laboratory testing and imaging as well as echocardiograms (ECG) may be performed. Genetic testing can determine if there is a mutation present.

Breeds at higher risk

Citations

Gurtner C, Hug P, Kleiter M, Köhler K, Dietschi E, Jagannathan V, Leeb T. YARS2 Missense Variant in Belgian Shepherd Dogs with Cardiomyopathy and Juvenile Mortality. Genes (Basel). 2020 Mar 14;11(3):313. doi: 10.3390/genes11030313. PMID: 32183361; PMCID: PMC7140874.

Disclaimer

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