Imerslund-Grasbeck Syndrome, Selective Cobalamin Malabsorption

Affected puppies are usually runty and have poor energy levels. If not caught at this time, signs can progress to vomiting and seizures.

Signs first appear in puppies.

Laboratory testing will show a low red blood cell count. On physical exam, an abnormally slow heart rate will be noted. Genetic testing, clinical signs and additional blood tests are used to diagnosis this disorder.

Fortunately, IGS is treatable with regular injections of cobalamin. Early treatment is associated with the best outcome.

Talk to your vet about your dog’s Imerslund-Grasbeck syndrome result so you can plan regular monitoring, vitamin B12 supplementation if needed, and routine checkups to ensure vitamin levels stay stable.

Watch for signs such as poor appetite, weight loss, lethargy, or pale gums, and contact your vet if you notice any of these changes.

With consistent care and supplementation, most dogs with this condition can live relatively normal, active lives.

This mutation was first described in Border Collies.

Penetrance: This disease is inherited in an autosomal recessive manner, meaning that affected dogs must have two copies of the mutation to show clinical signs.

Gene

CUBN (Exon 53)

Inheritance type

recessive

Clinical category

Gastrointestinal

Citations

1. Owczarek-Lipska et al 2013

• Border Collie
• Australian Kelpie
• McNab