Fetal-Onset Neonatal Neuroaxonal Dystrophy

When axonal disease is present, affected animals show signs that are consistent with a delay between the brain and the body: sometimes they walk with an uncoordinated gait, or don't seem to know where their limbs are relative to the ground, leading to scuffing or dragging of the paws.

Signs develop in puppies.

Unless a genetic basis is suspected due to the age, breed, or history of the dog, diagnostics must be performed to rule out infectious, inflammatory, or neoplastic causes.

There is no treatment for this disorder. Certain medications may be prescribed to control symptoms.

Talk to your vet about your dog’s fetal-onset neonatal neuroaxonal dystrophy result so they can help guide care and monitoring.

Signs such as weakness, tremors, or difficulty standing or walking often appear very early in life and may worsen quickly.

Focus on keeping your puppy comfortable in a calm, safe environment and ensure they have good footing to prevent injury.

Work closely with your vet to discuss supportive care options and ensure your puppy’s comfort and well-being.

This mutation was first described in a breeding colony of dogs at a university.

Penetrance: This mutation is considered a homozygous lethal mutation as homozygous puppies die at birth.

Gene

MFN2

Inheritance type

recessive

Clinical category

Neurologic

Citations

1. Fyfe et al 2011

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