Using Genetic Tests to Prospectively Manage Cardiac Cases

摘要

Over 200 genetic mutations (variations, deletions, insertions) have now been associated with the development of clinical disease in the dog and cat and an additional 100 or so companion animal diseases have been identified without a mutation yet identified. It has been estimated that 5-10 new familial diseases are identified every year.1 As veterinarians have become better at understanding and preventing nutritional and infectious diseases, we have decreased the prevalence of these issues and have been faced with a larger number of familial diseases, particularly, but not limited to the purebred dog or cat. Many forms of congenital and acquired disease have a strong breed predisposition suggesting a familial etiology. The small animal practitioner may be asked to provide consultation on genetic issues in order to provide information to owners of breeding animals to aid them in breeding decisions and to provide pet owners information about etiologies of disease.