The DNA Fanconi test is available for Basenjis
Fanconi syndrome is an inherited disorder in which the proximal renal tubules of the kidney do not properly reabsorb electrolytes and nutrients back into the body, but instead “spill” them into the urine. Symptoms include excessive drinking (polydipsia), excessive urination (polyuria), and glucose in the urine (glucosuria.) If Fanconi is left untreated, further symptoms may occur including general poor condition, muscle wasting, and acidosis.
Untreated, a dog with Fanconi syndrome will generally die from the disorder. If caught early and put on the treatment protocol, affected individuals can do well.
Far better than treatment, however, is conscientious breeding, which includes:
- Testing the DNA of all breeding dogs to confirm the presence or absence of the Fanconi gene
- Careful planning to avoid the mating of affected dogs, or of two carriers
Tests are ordered online through the secure area of the OFA website. Payment is accepted by credit card (MasterCard and VISA). The OFA administers all order handling. Upon receipt of an order, the OFA will send out the test kit which will include a Foam-Tipped Applicator card for DNA sample collection, along with sample collection instructions. Using the FTA card technology, owners can safely collect DNA samples at home. The collection process is non-invasive, and no veterinary appointment is necessary.
Samples are then sent to the University of Missouri College of Veterinary Medicine where the samples will be processed by the Small Animal Molecular Genetics Lab. Results will be forwarded to the OFA, and the OFA will issue the resulting report to the owner.
The fee for each test includes the test kit, laboratory processing, and subsequent registration in the OFA databases.