L-2-hydroxyglutaric aciduria (L-2-HGA) is a hereditary disease that can be tested with a DNA test. L-2-hydroxyglutaric aciduria (L-2-HGA) is a neurometabolic disorder characterised by accumulation of L-2- hydroxyglutaric acid in urine, plasma and cerebrospinal fluid. In healthy dogs L-2-hydroxyglutarate is metabolized to the 2-oxoglutarate (alpha-ketoglutarate), but in affected dogs L-2-HGA cannot be metabolised and is accumulated in their bodies. This leads to central nervous system damage that produces a variety of clinical neurological deficits, including psychomotor retardation, cerebellar ataxia, muscle stiffness, dementia and seizures (like epilepsy). Clinical signs in most cases become apparent between 6 months and one year.

Inheritance: autosomal recessive - read more

Mutation: L2HGDH 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.

Disease control: read more

DNA test sample: EDTA whole blood (1.0 ml) or buccal swabs. Detailed information about sampling can be found here.