Rabinow-like-syndrome, also known as screw tail syndrome, is an inherited genetic disorder that affects the development of the tail vertebrae and may result in a distinctive spinal curvature resembling a 'screw tail'. The 'screw tail' is caused by a variety of malformed and fused vertebrae and lack of approximately 8-15 caudal vertebrae. Some dog breeds, such as Bulldog, French Bulldog and Boston Terrier, are characterised by distinctive morphological traits including a wide head, widely spaced eyes, short muzzle, small size and abnormalities of the vertebral bones of the back and tail. In other dog breeds that condition can be related with other health abnormalities, such as brachycephalic airway obstruction syndrome, congenital heart disease and malformation of the thoracic vertebrae.

Inheritance: autosomal recessive - read more

Mutation: DVL2 gene

Genetic test: The method used for genetic testing is extremely accurate and allows complete differentiation between affected animals, carriers and healthy dogs. DNA testing can be done at any age.

Disease control: read more

DNA test sample: EDTA whole blood (1.0 ml) or buccal swabs. Detailed information about sampling can be found here.