Cobalamin Malabsorption
This is a gastrointestinal disease where dogs cannot absorb cobalamin, often causing them to be small with poor energy levels. Cobalamin is required for synthesis of certain amino acids and is an important factor for a number of other metabolic processes. Dogs cannot generate their own cobalamin but must consume it in their diet. However, dogs with IGS cannot absorb cobalamin from their meals.
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Signs and symptoms
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. -
Diagnosis
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.
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Treatment
Fortunately, IGS is treatable with regular injections of cobalamin. Early treatment is associated with the best outcome.
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What to do if your dog is at risk
Actions
- Please consult your veterinarian regularly for best treatment outcomes.
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Genetic Information
This mutation was first described in Beagles.
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 names:
CUBN (Exon 8) ‐ chr
Inheritance type:
recessive
Citations:
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Breeds affected
This health condition affects the following breeds
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