Gallbladder mucoceles (GBM)

General description

Gallbladder mucoceles causes mucinous hyperplasia of the gallbladder wall and accumulation of mucus resulting in an extended gallbladder. Clinical signs occur in older dogs showing vomiting, anorexia, lethargie, icterus and abdominal pain.

Breeds

American Cocker Spaniel, Cairn Terrier, Cockapoo, English Cocker Spaniel, Pomeranian, Pomsky, Shetland Sheepdog (Sheltie)

Order details
Test number8323
AbbreviationGBM
Sample material0.5 ml EDTA blood, 2x cheek swab, 1x special swab (eNAT)
Test duration7-14 working days
Test specifications
Symptom complexsystemic
Inheritanceautosomal dominant with incomplete penetrance
Causalitycausally
GeneABCB4
MutationINS
LiteratureOMIA:001524-9615
Detailed description

This genetic variant leads to an abnormally pronounced enlargement (hyperplasia) of the gallbladder mucosa, resulting in a greater accumulation of mucus. If such gallbladder mucoceles are left untreated, they may become inflamed (cholecystitis). This condition manifests through symptoms such as vomiting, reduced appetite and food intake, lethargy, jaundice (icterus), and abdominal pain. There is a risk of gallbladder rupture. Affected animals are usually older dogs.

The connection between the known genetic variant and the occurrence of the disease is still under scientific discussion.