Dental Abnormalities in Two Dental-Skeletal-Retinal Anomaly-Positive Cane Corso Dogs: A Case Series

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Genetics
• Canine Pathology
• Oral Medicine

Background:

• Dental-skeletal-retinal-anomaly (DSRA) is a newly identified collagenopathy in Cane Corso dogs.
• The condition is linked to splice defects in the MIA3/TANGO1 gene, affecting TANGO1 protein production.
• Previous research identified similar defects in humans and knockout mice.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the dental radiographic and histopathological abnormalities in two genetically confirmed DSRA-affected Cane Corso dogs.
• To compare clinical, radiological, and histological findings with previously reported MIA3/TANGO1 splice defect cases.
• To highlight the importance of awareness regarding DSRA's genetic basis, inheritance, and clinical manifestations for veterinary professionals.

Main Methods:

• Case series presentation of two Cane Corso dogs with genetically confirmed DSRA.
• Intraoral radiography to assess dental structures and abnormalities.
• Histopathological examination of dental tissues.
• Review of clinical signs including dental, skeletal, retinal, and orthopedic abnormalities.

Main Results:

• Dental findings included intrinsic dyschromia, enamel defects, fractured teeth, delayed dentin deposition, endodontic disease, and dental hard tissue loss.
• Histopathology confirmed dentinogenesis imperfecta (DGI) in both cases.
• Clinical features were consistent with previously reported MIA3/TANGO1 splice defects, including vision loss, short stature, and lameness.

Conclusions:

• DSRA in Cane Corso dogs presents with significant dental abnormalities, notably dentinogenesis imperfecta, linked to MIA3/TANGO1 gene mutations.
• Autosomal recessive inheritance is confirmed, with commercial genetic testing available.
• Veterinary awareness and genetic screening are crucial for managing and preventing DSRA, recommending carrier sterilization or removal from breeding programs.