Cerebellar hypoplasia

Project description

We have received samples from a litter of American Hairless Terriers, in which all puppies were diagnosed with a developmental defect of the brain, cerebellar hypoplasia. The cerebellum of affected puppies had not developed properly, causing sings of motor dysfunction. The symptoms were noticed as soon as the puppies started to move. The cerebellum is situated at the back of the skull and it functions in coordinating voluntary movements. Affected dogs had difficulties in keeping up their balance and controlling the direction and force of their movements. This caused clumsiness, wobbly walking, falling over and bumping into things.

Cerebellar hypoplasia has not been described in many breeds. The aim of the study is to examine whether cerebellar hypoplasia in the American Heirless Terrier is an inherited condition.

Studied Breeds

American Hairless Terrier

If a similar condition occurs in another breed we would be interested to hear more.

Which samples are needed

Samples are needed from affected dogs, as well as from their parents and healthy siblings.

Copies of diagnoses and other information needed

We would like to know the dogs’ case history; what are the symptoms, age of onset etc. If neurological examinations have been performed we would like to hear the results. You can also send us video clips from dogs with a suspected cerebellar hypoplasia. We would also like to have the pedigree information from the affected dogs

Links

1. How to participate.

2. Health surveillance questionnaire.

Contact us

Marjo Hytönen, marjo.hytonen(at)helsinki.fi.