Methemoglobinemia

Your dog may have a rapid respiratory rate, blue gums, and exercise intolerance.

Signs of methemoglobinemia often first appear with an associated disease, such as a respiratory infection.

Genetic and laboratory testing can be used to diagnose this condition. Please note that there are also toxins that can cause this condition.

Methylene blue can be administered to control the clinical signs. However, this is a long-term therapy, not a cure. Treatment of concurrent infections or inflammation is also recommended.

Talk to your vet about your dog’s methemoglobinemia result, as it may influence their choice of medications or anesthesia.

Most dogs with this result do not show symptoms, but some may be more sensitive to certain drugs or oxygen-related stress.

Watch for signs of breathing difficulty, fatigue, or bluish gums, and contact your vet right away if you notice any of these symptoms.

Seek veterinary care promptly if your dog has a respiratory infection or any condition that affects oxygen levels.

This variant was first described in the Pit Bull Terrier.

Penetrance: This variant is inherited in an autosomal dominant manner, meaning that a dog only requires one copy of the variant to show clinical signs of methemoglobinemia.

Gene

CYB5R3 Exon 7

Inheritance type

dominant

Clinical category

Hematologic

Citations

1. Jaffey et al 2020

• American Pit Bull Terrier