Intestinal Cobalamin Malabsorption (Giant Schnauzer)

Body function:
Metabolic & Digestive
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Intestinal cobalamin malabsorption is a hereditary disorder affecting cobalamin absorption (vitamin B12). This condition is caused by mutations in the AMN gene, which disrupts the cubam receptor complex responsible for cobalamin absorption in the intestines and kidneys.
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List of affected breeds:

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

Giant Schnauzer

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What does this mean for a dog with this trait?

Treatment for intestinal cobalamin malabsorption is cobalamin supplementation, which can reverse most symptoms within a few weeks. However, affected dogs will continue to pass specific proteins in their urine despite treatment. Regular monitoring and timely supplementation can help maintain the dog's health and prevent complications.

Symptoms

Symptoms of this condition often begin after weaning. Common signs include anorexia, lethargy, poor weight gain, and low muscle mass. Affected dogs may exhibit elevated methylmalonic acid in the urine due to cobalamin deficiency. In severe cases, some dogs develop neurological symptoms. Anemia is also observed in affected dogs. Though the symptoms may not be immediately recognizable, they worsen over time if untreated.

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