Dog Acral Mutilation Syndrome (AMS)

Acral Mutilation Syndrome (AMS) in dogs is a rare genetic disorder that affects certain breeds, leading to self-mutilation and severe pain. DNA testing for AMS is crucial for early diagnosis and prevention, helping pet owners understand their dog's genetic predisposition. By identifying carriers of the AMS gene, breeders can make informed decisions to reduce the incidence of this debilitating condition. Symptoms of AMS include excessive licking, biting, and injury to the paws and limbs. With the right genetic testing, owners can ensure better health outcomes for their pets. Don’t wait—consider a DNA test today to safeguard your dog's wellbeing. Discover peace of mind knowing you’re taking proactive steps for your furry friend!

Abbreviation : AMS

Analysed mutation : GDNF g.70875561C>T

Inheritance : Autosomal Recessive

Acronym

AMS

Observed frequency

Rare

Clinical severity

Severe

Clinical classification

Neurological Diseases

Analysed mutation

GDNF g.70875561C>T

Mode of inheritance

Autosomal Recessive

Test summary:

Acral Mutilation Syndrome (AMS) is a rare genetic disorder observed in certain dog breeds, characterized by self-mutilating behaviors and severe pain in the paws. A DNA test for AMS can identify carriers of the gene responsible for this condition, allowing breeders to make informed decisions and reduce the risk of passing it on to future generations. Early diagnosis through genetic testing can lead to better management and treatment options for affected dogs. This test is particularly crucial for breeds known to be predisposed to AMS, ensuring the health and well-being of these animals. Responsible breeding practices can help prevent the emergence of this distressing syndrome in canine populations.

Available from the pack : Basic

This DNA test is included starting from our pack Basic — and is also part of the packs Basic, Standard, Advanced, Complete.

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Understanding Acral Mutilation Syndrome (AMS) in Dogs

Acral Mutilation Syndrome (AMS) is a genetic condition that primarily affects certain dog breeds, leading to severe and often painful self-mutilation of the paws and limbs. This disorder is characterized by the loss of skin and tissue, which can result in significant discomfort and complications for affected dogs. AMS is a hereditary condition, and understanding its genetic basis is crucial for breeders and veterinarians alike in managing and preventing its occurrence.

The Role of DNA Testing in AMS

DNA testing for Acral Mutilation Syndrome offers a reliable method for identifying carriers of the gene responsible for this condition. By analyzing specific genetic markers associated with AMS, veterinarians and breeders can make informed decisions about breeding practices. This proactive approach helps reduce the incidence of the syndrome in future generations and promotes the overall health of the population.

Clinical Signs and Symptoms

Dogs with Acral Mutilation Syndrome typically exhibit a range of clinical signs, including self-inflicted wounds on the paws and limbs. These wounds can lead to secondary infections, discomfort, and even behavioral changes due to pain and distress. Owners may notice that affected dogs exhibit compulsive licking or chewing at their limbs, which exacerbates the condition. In severe cases, the mutilation can result in significant tissue damage and require surgical intervention.

Management and Treatment Options

While there is no cure for Acral Mutilation Syndrome, effective management strategies can help alleviate the symptoms and improve the quality of life for affected dogs. Treatment may include pain management, wound care, and behavioral modification therapies to reduce the urge to self-mutilate. In some cases, veterinarians may recommend the use of protective devices, such as Elizabethan collars or paw wraps, to prevent further injury while the dog heals.

Importance of Genetic Counseling

Genetic counseling plays a vital role in addressing Acral Mutilation Syndrome. Breeders should seek guidance from geneticists to understand the implications of producing offspring from affected or carrier animals. By utilizing DNA testing and adhering to responsible breeding practices, the risks associated with AMS can be significantly mitigated, ensuring healthier dogs and promoting ethical breeding standards.

Conclusion

Acral Mutilation Syndrome is a serious genetic condition that poses significant challenges for affected dogs and their owners. DNA testing serves as a crucial tool in identifying carriers and managing the condition effectively. Through a combination of early detection, responsible breeding, and comprehensive care, the impact of AMS can be minimized, leading to healthier lives for dogs and greater peace of mind for their caregivers.

Breed recognized for the test : Acral Mutilation Syndrome (AMS)

American Cocker Spaniel
Black Cocker Spaniel
Cockapoo
English Cocker Spaniel
English Springer Spaniel
French Spaniel
German Shorthaired Pointer
Old English Sheepdog
Pointer
Sheepadoodle
Welsh Cocker Spaniel
Welsh Springer Spaniel
Working Cocker Spaniel

Interpretation of genotypes Genotype Status Learn more about the interpretation of genotypes FAQ: understanding the interpretation of result What does “Clear” mean? The animal does not carry the mutation. It will not develop the disease and will not pass it on. Is a “Carrier” serious? No. The animal is generally healthy but can transmit the mutation to its offspring. What if an animal is “Affected”? It carries two mutated copies. Clinical signs are expected depending on the disease. It should not be bred. Why are there differences between male / female? Some diseases are sex-linked, so their expression varies depending on the animal’s sex. The animal has two normal copies of the gene. No risk of developing or transmitting the disease. Heterozygous carrier: one mutated copy. The animal is usually not clinically affected but can pass the mutation to offspring. Male carrier or affected depending on the inheritance mode. Males have only one X or Y chromosome. Heterozygous female carrier: one mutated copy. She can pass the mutation on and may sometimes show mild clinical signs depending on the condition. Two mutated copies of the gene. The animal is at risk of developing the associated condition.

🧬 Interpretation of genotypes AMS

Genotype

Status

🟡 N/N

Non-carrier - No Risk

🟡 N/AMS

Carrier - No Risk

❌ AMS/AMS

Affected - At Risk

FAQ: understanding the interpretation

What does “Clear” mean?

The animal does not carry the mutation. It will not develop the disease and will not pass it on.

Is a “Carrier” serious?

No. The animal is generally healthy but can transmit the mutation to its offspring.

What if an animal is “Affected”?

It carries two mutated copies. Clinical signs are expected depending on the disease. It should not be bred.

Why are there differences between male / female?

Some diseases are sex-linked, so their expression varies depending on the animal’s sex.

Genotype Forecast for Offspring Mother Father Non-carrier Carrier Affected Favorable cross: majority Carrier risk is predominant. Majority affected Filter by mother's genotype Filter by father's genotype All Predict Offspring The animal has two normal copies of the gene. No risk of developing or transmitting the disease. Heterozygous carrier: one mutated copy. The animal is usually not clinically affected but can pass the mutation to offspring. Male carrier or affected depending on the inheritance mode. Males have only one X or Y chromosome. Heterozygous female carrier: one mutated copy. She can pass the mutation on and may sometimes show mild clinical signs depending on the condition. Two mutated copies of the gene. The animal is at risk of developing the associated condition.

Predict Offspring

Filter by mother's genotype Filter by father's genotype

N/N (Non-carrier)

N/AMS (Carrier)

AMS/AMS (Affected)

DNA Test FAQ

What does this DNA test detect?

This DNA test detects the mutation associated with Acral Mutilation Syndrome (AMS) in order to identify clear, carrier, or at-risk animals.

Why test a breeding animal?

DNA testing helps breeders plan safer matings and reduce the risk of transmitting the mutation to offspring.

What is the inheritance mode of this test?

The inheritance mode reported for this test is Autosomal Recessive.

Which mutation is analysed in this test?

This test analyses the mutation GDNF g.70875561C>T.

Is a carrier animal necessarily affected?

Not necessarily. Interpretation depends on the inheritance pattern and the resulting genotype.

References

Plassais Jocelyn, Lagoutte Laetitia, Correard Solenne, Paradis Manon, Guaguère Eric, Hédan Benoit, Pommier Alix, Botherel Nadine, Cadiergues MarieChristine, Pilorge Philippe, Silversides David, Bizot Maud, Samuels Mark, Arnan Carme, Johnson Rory, Hitte Christophe, Salbert Gilles, Méreau Agnès, Quignon Pascale, Derrien Thomas, André Catherine. A Point Mutation in a lincRNA Upstream of GDNF Is Associated to a Canine Insensitivity to Pain: A Spontaneous Model for Human Sensory Neuropathies. PLoS Genet. 2016 Dec 29;12(12):e1006482. doi: 10.1371/journal.pgen.1006482. eCollection 2016 Dec.

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