New DNA Test Can Detect Delayed Postoperative Hemorrhage in Sighthounds

By Caroline Coile

A new DNA test could save the lives of sighthounds undergoing surgery. Researchers from Washington State University have developed a genetic test to detect dogs prone to excessive bleeding following surgery. The condition, called delayed postoperative hemorrhage (DEPOH), was first noted in racing Greyhounds but has since been reported in Scottish Deerhounds, Irish Wolfhounds, Italian Greyhounds, Salukis, Borzois, Whippets and even Golden Retrievers, Border Collies, Bulldogs and Shetland Sheepdogs. DEPOH occurs when blood clots all start to break down too soon after surgery, typically one to four days following major surgery. It can cause severe bruising or even death. Normal coagulation screening tests do not detect the problem.

Researchers studied 269 Scottish Deerhounds in order to pinpoint the genetic mutation on chromosome 9. They then confirmed the candidate gene by screening additional sighthounds and other breeds that had exhibited DEPOH.

The DNA test, called DEPOHGEN, is from Washington State University. Dogs with the mutant gene can be given drugs prior to surgery that will prevent DEPOH. These drugs can be expensive and cause adverse reactions, so they shouldn’t be given unless a dog is susceptible to DEPOH. Testing for the mutation ahead of time will prevent unnecessary use of these drugs, and is especially useful for emergency surgery situations.

The initial published study focused on Scottish Deerhounds: Identification by whole genome sequencing of genes associated with delayed postoperative hemorrhage in Scottish deerhounds – Court – Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine – Wiley Online Library.

The test is available from Washington State University Pharmacogenetic Laboratory for $65. Pharmacogenomics Laboratory | Washington State University (wsu.edu)

Short URL: https://caninechronicle.com/?p=260007

Posted by Liz on Apr 2 2023. Filed under Current Articles, Featured, The Buzz. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0. Both comments and pings are currently closed.