Canine Disease Testing
Imserlund-Grasbeck Syndrome
Cost Per Sample $45.00
Results in 2-3 Business Days 
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Imerslund-Grasbeck Syndrome (IGS) or Selective Cobalamin Malabsorption
Description:
Canine Imerslund-Grasbeck Syndrome (IGS), or cobalamin malabsorption, is a disorder which causes a dog to be unable to absorb adequate levels of Vitamin B12. Cobalamin, or vitamin B12, is normally taken in through the small intestines. Dogs with IGS cannot absorb the vitamin and quickly begin to show symptoms of deficiency.
Symptoms of IGS typically appear within 6-12 weeks after birth. A puppy is born with a certain amount of Vitamin B12, but after the stored vitamin is depleted, the puppy will exhibit signs of deficiency. Symptoms include anemia, lethargy, failure to thrive, and lack of appetite. While IGS cannot be cured, the disorder can be managed with regular supplementation of cobalamin.
Imerslund-Grasbeck Syndrome is inherited as an autosomal recessive condition. A dog must inherit two copies of the mutated gene to have IGS, and one gene must come from each parent. Dogs that have only one copy of the mutated gene are carriers of the mutation. Since carriers do not exhibit any symptoms of the disorder, DNA testing is an important tool to ensure the optimum health of puppies.
Acceptable Sample Types:
Animal Genetics accepts buccal swab, blood, and dewclaw samples for testing. Complimentary sample collection kits are available and can be ordered at test now.
This Test Is Relevant For the Following Breeds:
- Beagles
- Border Collies
Results:
Animal Genetics offers DNA testing for Imerslund-Grasbeck Syndrome (IGS). The genetic test verifies the presence of the recessive TNS gene and presents results as one of the following:
| IGS/IGS | Affected | The dog carries two copies of the mutant gene and is homozygous for IGS. This dog will be affected and will always pass a copy of the mutated gene to its offspring. |
| n/IGS | Carrier | Both the normal and mutant copies of the gene detected. Dog is a carrier for the IGS mutation and can pass on a copy of the defective gene to its offspring 50% of the time. |
| n/n | Clear | Dog tested negative for the gene mutation that causes IGS and will not pass on the defective gene to its offspring. |
Submit a Sample for Testing:
To submit a sample for testing please go to test now.
To order a sample collection kit please go to order sample collection kits.
Cost per sample is $45.00. Please see our fee schedules below for combination rates.
