Inherited Myopathy of Great Danes
IMGD stems from a mutation in the BIN1 gene, which produces a protein that controls cell membrane remodeling. This is especially important for muscle development and growth. Loss of BIN1 prevents muscle cells from differentiating correctly, ultimately leading to muscle malfunction and damage in the growing dog.
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Signs and symptoms
Signs include weakness, unsteady gait, generalized muscle wasting, and exercise intolerance. The severity of the disease can vary between individuals of the same litter, with some animals being so severely affected that euthanasia is elected and others maintain a good quality of life after symptoms have stabilized.
Signs develop in juvenile dogs.Uncover health risks with Embark
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Diagnosis
Genetic testing, clinical signs, and muscle biopsy can be used to diagnose this disorder.
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Treatment
Currently there is no treatment for IMGD; mildly to moderately affected dogs usually stabilize by 2 years of age and enjoy a normal lifespan.
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What to do if your dog is at risk
Actions
- Talk to your vet about your dog’s inherited myopathy result so you can plan appropriate care and monitoring.
- Watch for signs such as stiffness, weakness, or a stilted gait, and avoid overly strenuous exercise that could worsen fatigue.
- Provide a calm environment with good traction to help your dog move safely and prevent slipping.
- Gentle activity, supportive care, and a predictable routine can help maintain your dog’s comfort and mobility over time.
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Genetic Information
This mutation was first described in Great Danes.
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:
BIN1 ‐ chr
Inheritance type:
recessive
Citations:
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Breeds affected
This health condition affects the following breeds
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