Congenital Dyserythropoietic Anemia and Polymyopathy in Dogs

Category: Blood
Breeds documented: 1
Published sources: 5

Overview

This inherited syndrome affects the way red blood cells develop and also affects skeletal muscles. Abnormal blood cells can be found on routine testing before muscle problems are recognized. Affected dogs may develop weakness, muscle loss and regurgitation, meaning food coming back up, because the food pipe is enlarged. The reported illness has differed between Labrador Retrievers and English Springer Spaniels.

Signs to watch for

Weakness, particularly in the back legs
Loss of muscle, especially around the head
Food coming back up without forceful vomiting
Weight loss

Blood changes may appear in puppyhood; muscle signs can be recognized much later.

When to get help Book a veterinary visit for muscle loss, weakness or repeated regurgitation.

Diagnosis and tests

A blood count and microscopic blood review can reveal unusually small, abnormally developed red blood cells. Bone marrow examination and muscle biopsy can help identify the combined blood and muscle disorder. A genetic study linked affected Labrador Retriever littermates to a change in EHBP1L1.

Breeds with documented risk

1 breed

By breed size

1 Large

Labrador RetrieverLarge · Sporting Group

Inheritance

Not yet known
None of the sources we use states how this is inherited in dogs yet.

We've gathered what published sources say about this condition, so you can talk it through with your vet. It isn't veterinary advice: you and your vet know your dog best.