| dc.description.abstract | Epilepsy is the most common neurological disease in dogs and
many forms are considered to have a genetic basis. Investigations
of true canine epilepsies has revealed genetic associations in some
cases, however many remain unexplained.
Gene mutations have been described for 2 forms of canine
epilepsy, Primary (generalised) Epilepsy, which is the original
diagnosed epilepsy itself and secondly Progressive Myoclonic
Epilepsy, which are brief shock like jerks of a single muscle or
muscle groups, during a myoclonic seizure the dog is usually
awake.
Nine genes have been described to underlie progressive myoclonic
epilepsies in several different dog breeds.
The investigations into Genetic Primary Epilepsy (PE) have been
less successful, with only one causative gene described. Certain
dog breeds and certain lines within in the breeds are predisposed
to epilepsy including Australian Shepherds, German Shepherds,
Beagles, Boxers, Border collies, Border terriers, Cavalier King
Charles Spaniels and springer Spaniels.
Genetic testing is available and will help with diagnosis of specific
epilepsy, the prognosis and also benefits breeders, as they will be
able to identify carriers, therefore revise breeding plans to avoid
future affected puppies. Many studies of dog breeds with primary
Epilepsy have failed to identify specific genes or loci of interest.
This suggests that inheritance is complex as it is in human genetic
epilepsies. It may involve several genes and be reflective of
environmental interactions. | en_US |
