Saluki Neuronal Ceroid Lipofuscinosis in Dogs

Category: Nervous System & Behavioral
Inheritance: Autosomal recessive
Breeds documented: 1
Published sources: 5

Overview

Abnormal deposits collect inside nerve cells in this inherited disorder, gradually damaging their function. The Saluki form has been linked to a change in the CLN8 gene. Stored material can also build up in the retina, the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye. Affected dogs can become confused or anxious, have trouble eating, lose vision and develop seizures as signs worsen.

Signs to watch for

Appearing confused or disoriented
Unusual anxiety
Difficulty eating
Loss of vision
Seizures

Published Saluki cases developed signs at about one year of age.

Emergency Go to an emergency vet now if your dog is having a seizure.

Diagnosis and tests

A DNA test exists for this variant. In a published Saluki study, researchers identified a change in the CLN8 gene in one affected dog and found the same change in a second case. Microscopic examination of brain and eye tissue in the first dog showed abnormal deposits consistent with this disorder.

Breeds with documented risk

1 breed

By breed size

1 Large

SalukiLarge · Hound Group

Inheritance

Autosomal recessive
Saluki
A dog is affected only if it inherits two copies of the gene variant, one from each parent. A dog with one copy is a carrier: usually healthy, but able to pass the variant on. When two carriers are bred, on average one puppy in four is affected. A DNA test can tell clear, carrier and at-risk dogs apart.
As stated by OMIA

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.