Fucosidosis

Body function:

Metabolic & Digestive

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Fucosidosis is a genetic disorder affecting English Springer Spaniels caused by a mutation of the FUCA1 gene. Dogs with the condition have a deficiency of alpha-L-fucosidase, which is used to break down sugar during metabolism. As a result, these sugars accumulate, affecting the brain and nervous system.

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List of affected breeds:

Genetic research has linked this gene and condition in the following breeds:

English Springer Spaniel

A brown and white dog is running through a grassy field. The dog's tail is wagging, and it looks happy and energetic. There are some rocks and trees in the background.

What does this mean for a dog with this trait?

There is no known cure for fucosidosis. Dogs with the condition are typically euthanized due to poor quality of life.

Symptoms

Symptoms of fucosidosis typically appear in the first 4 years of life. They include deafness and blindness, loss of balance, change in behavior and learned skills, and weight loss. The disease progresses quickly and is fatal.

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