Subacute Necrotizing Encephalopathy (SNE)

Subacute necrotizing encephalopathy (SNE) is a neurodegenerative brain disorder, which is characterized by seizures, altered mentation, dysphagia, central blindness, hypermetria, facial hypoalgesia, ataxia and tetraparesis. The first clinical signs appear in less than 1 year old puppies. The neurological changes seen in Yorkshire Terriers with subacute necrotizing encephalopathy are almost the same as those observed in Alaskan Huskies with the condition, and they share many similarities with human neurological disorder called Leigh syndrome.

Inheritance: autosomal recessive

Mutation: SLC19A3 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.