Exercise Induced Metabolic Myopathy (EIMM/CNM) - German Hunting Terrier

Exercise induced metabolic myopathy (EIMM) is an inherited muscle disease. Clinical signs include exercise induced muscle pain, suspected rhabdomyolysis, exercise intolerance and weakness. So far, the disease was only described in German Hunting Terriers. Affected dogs cannot be used for hunting as they collapse and develop tetraparesis or tetraplegia shortly after exercise. During these episodes, affected dogs present a brownish discoloration of the urine. However, they do not exhibit cardiac or pulmonary abnormalities. EIMM affects both male and female dogs. Symptoms are caused by a genetic defect that causes enzyme deficiency. Affected enzyme is involved in fatty acid oxidation which is a key process for energy production.

Inheritance: autosomal recessive

Mutation: ACADVL gene

Genetic test: The method used for testing is extremely accurate and allows complete differentiation between affected animals, carriers and healthy dogs. Testing can be done at any age.