Glycogen Storage Disease type IIIa (Curly Coated Retriever)(GSD IIIa)
Glycogen Storage Disease Type IIIa · Cori's Disease · Forbes Disease · Glykogenose Typ IIIa · Glycogen Debranching Enzyme Deficiency · Glykogenspeicherkrankheit Typ IIIa · Cori-Krankheit · Forbes-Krankheit · Limit Dextrinosis
What it is
Glycogen Storage Disease Type IIIa is an inherited metabolic disorder where the body lacks a key enzyme needed to break down glycogen, which is a stored form of sugar used for energy. Without this enzyme, glycogen builds up to harmful levels in the liver and muscle tissues. This accumulation progressively damages these organs and prevents them from functioning properly.
How it presents
Symptoms typically appear in puppies or young dogs. Owners will usually notice severe muscle weakness, rapid tiring during exercise, general lethargy, and episodes of low blood sugar, which can cause wobbliness or collapse.
Treatment
This condition is incurable and requires lifelong management, including a specialized high-protein diet and regular veterinary monitoring. Lifetime care and support typically cost between 3,000 and 10,000 EUR.
How it's tested
Affected breeds
Treatment cost
Estimated range of typical treatment cost. Actual cost depends on severity, clinic and region.