Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM) - Manchester Terrier

Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM) is an inherited hereditary disease that occurs in dogs. The disease appears as unexpected death within the first 2 years of life, usually around 6 months. Necropsy results indicate both acute and chronic forms of disease. In the acute type, the heart seems normal at first glance, but microscopic examination reveals areas of acute heart muscle degeneration and cell death without inflammation. In the chronic type, there are often signs of slight enlargement of the heart, dilation of the left ventricle, thickening of the left ventricular wall, and an enlarged left auricle. Symptoms of the disease encompass myocardial fibrosis, minor inflammation and sometimes myocardial mineralization.

Inheritance: autosomal recessive

Mutation: ABCC9 gene

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