Cystic Renal Dysplasia and Hepatic Fibrosis in Dogs

Category: Urinary & Reproductive
Breeds documented: 1
Published sources: 4

Overview

This rare inherited developmental disorder has been reported in newborn Norwich Terriers. The kidneys develop abnormally and contain many fluid-filled spaces, while scar-like tissue forms around small bile ducts in the liver. It is linked to a change in the INPP5E gene, which affects tiny structures involved in cell signaling. The reported puppies became critically ill immediately after birth.

Signs to watch for

Failure to thrive after birth
Severe breathing difficulty in a newborn puppy
A visibly swollen belly

The published cases were affected from birth and died within the first two days.

Emergency Go to an emergency vet now if a newborn puppy struggles to breathe.

Diagnosis and tests

In the published cases, diagnosis came from examination of kidney and liver tissue after the puppies died. Microscopy showed abnormal kidney development, numerous cysts, and excess connective tissue around liver bile ducts. Researchers also identified an INPP5E gene change that can be used for genetic screening in Norwich Terriers.

Breeds with documented risk

1 breed

By breed size

1 Small

Norwich TerrierSmall · Terrier 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.