Current Version of:  (includes current info on colchicine availability)
Hyaluronosis & Shar-Pei Fever: Diagnosis and Treatment Suggestions, Updated April 3, 2012

Shar-Pei have a copy number variation (CNV) of a mutated gene near the one encoding hyaluronan synthase 2 (HAS2, an enzyme that makes hyaluronan) on canine chromosome 13. This mutation may be either the "traditional" mutation common in the original traditional bonemouth-type dogs or the "meatmouth" mutation that occurs in the western-style, more heavily wrinkled and padded Shar-Pei dogs. The increased CNV causes over-expression of HAS2 and increased amounts of hyaluronan produced around cells (Hereditary Cutaneous Hyaluronosis, HCH) . Increased copies of the mutated gene lead to abnormal excess hyaluronan. The CNV varies between individual Shar-Pei. All Shar-Pei carry at least two copies of the mutated gene. Some Shar-Pei have many more copies of the mutated gene than other Shar-Pei. Increased numbers of mutated copies (high CNV) has been linked to increased risk for Familial Shar-Pei Fever (FSF) and amyloidosis.

Click here to download the interactive PDF application form for the URL Pharma Patient Assistance Program for Colcrys®  for Shar-Pei dogs with Familial Shar-Pei Fever.