Primary lens luxation (PLL) is a hereditary disease which can be tested with a DNA test. Isolated ectopia lentis, known as primary lens luxation, has been recognized as a canine familial disorder for more than 75 years. PLL is encountered at high frequency in several terrier breeds and in some other breeds with probable terrier co-ancestry. In most instances, PLL goes undetected until one of the lenses is grossly displaced from the patellar fossa. Concurrent iridodonesis usually signals subluxation in the opposite eye. Gross displacement of the lens in the second eye often follows weeks or months later. Ultrastructure abnormalities of the zonular fibers are already evident at 20 months of age, long before the initial luxation that typically occurs when the dogs are 3 to 8 years old.
Inheritance: autosomal recessive - read more
Mutation: ADAMTS17 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.