What is Amyloidosis?
The Bracco Italiano is at increased risk of developing renal (kidney) amyloidosis. This disease occurs when abnormal protein fibrils are deposited in the kidney. It can cause protein loss in the urine and build up of toxins in the blood stream. The prognosis for this disease historically is poor, but appropriate treatment can provide months or years of good quality life for many dogs. Routine screening is recommended for all Bracchi.
What is
the Risk for Amyloidosis in the Bracco?
In preliminary research, more than 1 in 10 apparently healthy Bracchi have evidence of kidney disease on routine screening.
Many different bloodlines from across the world are affected.
The risk is increased if there is an immediate family history of amyloidosis (sibling, parent, grandparent). Males and females appear equally affected.
Ultimately, all purebred Bracco Italiano dogs should be considered at risk of this disease until a genetic marker can be identified.
What age are dogs diagnosed?
Any age Bracco can be affected, as early as one year to 12 years of age. Most commonly, dogs are diagnosed from 5-7 years of age.
What symptoms do they show?
Symptoms are highly variable. The most common include loss of appetite, increased thirst, and increased urination. Other symptoms that have been attributed to amyloidosis include limping/joint swelling, cough, facial swelling, and collapse.
What is the prognosis?
Once symptoms occur, prognosis is considered to be poor – however newer medical treatments and earlier diagnosis may provide a window of opportunity to manage this disease. The historic published survival time for amyloidosis is less than one week. Preliminary data in the Bracco shows a survival time of 75 days once symptoms arise, however many dogs are living months to years with medical management.
Testing for Kidney Disease
Bloodwork – serum chemistry
Urinalysis
Urine Protein/Creatinine Ratio (UP/C)
Kidney Biopsy with Congo Red Staining
Medications and Treatment
While the long term prognosis is poor for dogs with amyloidosis, appropriate medical management can give these dogs a chance for a longer and better life.
In Memory
For those who we lost too soon.
Contact
For more information and resources for you and your veterinary team.
Please remember that the information on this website is for educational purposes only. It is not intended to diagnose or treat a disease, and it should never be used in place of evaluation and recommendations from your veterinarian.
Feedback is welcome! If you feel something should be added or changed, please mention it with the button on the bottom left of the screen.