Spongy Degeneration with Cerebellar Ataxia 2

Brain and Spinal Cord

This is a neurodegenerative condition similar to the human multisystemic SeSAME/EAST syndrome. However, unlike SeSAME/EAST syndrome, affected dogs do not show signs of kidney disease or deafness.

  • Signs and symptoms

    Affected dogs show signs of cerebellar dysfunction at a young age (1 to 2 months old) including a lack of coordination walking, tremors, and poor balance. Seizures can also develop.

    Signs are often first apparent at 1-2 months of age.

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  • Diagnosis

    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.

  • Treatment

    There is no treatment for this disorder. Certain medications may be prescribed to control symptoms. Dogs with this disorder often are euthanized.

  • What to do if your dog is at risk

    Actions

    • Talk to your vet about your dog’s SDCA result so you can plan appropriate care and monitoring.
    • Signs such as tremors, unsteady movement, or difficulty walking usually appear in young puppies and tend to worsen over time.
    • Focus on keeping your puppy comfortable in a calm, safe environment with good footing to prevent injury.
    • This condition is severe and progressive, but providing comfort, stability, and gentle care can help maintain your puppy’s well-being.

  • Genetic Information

    This mutation was first described in the Belgian Malinois.

    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:

    ATP1B2 ‐ chr

    Inheritance type:

    recessive

  • Breeds affected

    This health condition affects the following breeds

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