Hereditary Ataxia in the Jack Russell Terrier -: preliminary results

Four lack Russell Terriers with Hereditary Alaxia were examined. They showed typical generalized ataxia with hypermetric movements. Further investigations, such as routine haematological and biochemical analyses and examination of the cerebrospinal fluid (total cell count, protein), myelography and computertomography (thekography), revealed no abnormalities. Histopathology performed an one of the examined dogs confirmed the clinical diagnosis. An abnormal measurement of brainstem auditory-evoked potentials (BAEP) was found in two dogs, since only wave I and II could be detected. Since studies on the mode of inheritance of this specific disease in the lack Russell Terrier were not yet performed, we collected additional data in order to build up a pedigree. This pedigree includes 76 lack Russell Terriers exhibiting hereditary ataxia, their ancestors and their littermates. A predisposition of the disease for certain families could be detected. Further investigations are necessary to clarify the mode of inheritance of this specific disease.