Intestinal Lipid Malabsorption

Intestinal Lipid Malabsorption is an autosomal recessive disorder of defective absorption and metabolism of lipids. The affected dogs suffer from steatorrhea, persistent intolerance to a fatty diet, yellowish poorly digested loose and pulpy faeces, stunted postnatal growth, abdominal distension and a wiry coat. Once affected puppies are transferred to a solid diet with digestive enzyme supplementation, faecal consistency normalises. They appear to outgrow the characteristic of clinical presentation at around 6 months of age, although they remain smaller and their intolerance to high-fat foods persists throughout their lives.

Inheritance: autosomal recessive

Mutation: ACSL5 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.