Progressive retinal atrophy

Abstract

A B S T R A C TThe literature on the genetics of progressive retinal atrophy has been reviewed with reference to hereditary degeneration of the retina in man and other animals. Of the possible modes of transmission only simple recessive autosomal genes have been unequivocally implicated. The British Veterinary Association Scheme to combat this illness is criticized as being unsuited to a recessively controlled condition which often makes its first appearance in mature animals. Criticisms are that the breeding potential of the afflicted animals is reduced inefficiently and in any case that afflicted dogs form only a small proportion of those carrying the gene. I t is suggested that a register be opened to note the afflicted, carrier and suspect carrier animals and that stronger pressures than at present be brought to bear on the owners to prevent breeding.