Polycythemia vera, also known as primary erythrocytosis, is a disease that results in the production of too many blood cells. This results in thicker blood that is unable to move through vessels as easily and decreases the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to tissues.

A mutation (JAK2) has been identified in dogs with primary polycythemia vera. Research on the prevalence of mutation among dogs with polycythemia vera is ongoing. Other factors could contribute to this condition in dogs, and a negative result does not rule out the presence of a different mutation that could cause a similar genetic disorder or trait.This mutation is not breed specific and can be tested for in any breed of dog. A blood sample is required to run this test. 

Testing Prices:

Canine Polycythemia Vera = $48.00 per dog

Canine Litter Discount = $38.00 per puppy

Sample Type for Submission:

Acceptable samples include 1-2 mL whole blood collected in an EDTA tube.

Explanation of Results:

Two copies of each gene are inherited, one from each parent. Possible results include:

Negative

Dogs have two copies of the normal gene, which is not associated with primary polycythemia vera. They cannot transmit this mutation to their offspring.

Positive Heterozygous

Dogs have one copy of the normal gene and one copy of the mutated gene, which is associated with polycythemia vera.

Positive Homozygous

Dogs have two copies of the mutated gene, which is associated with polycythemia vera.

In humans, a heterozygous mutation of JAK2 is sufficient to result in polycythemia vera, but a homozygous mutation resulted in more significant disease. Research is ongoing to better understand the genetic component of this disease in dogs.