MYHM added to APHA Genetic Health Panel

Beginning November 18, the American Paint Horse Association (APHA) Genetic Health Panel includes testing for Myosin-Heavy Chain Myopathy (MYHM) at APHA partner labs. The MYHM testing comes at no additional cost (as of that date) when purchasing the APHA Genetic Health Panel via UC-Davis or the APHA Panel at Etalon Diagnostics.

MYHM is an autoimmune condition that can cause severe, rapid muscle loss. A single dominant variant leads to susceptibility for two conditions: immune mediated myositis and non-exertional rhabdomyolysis. Horses with one or two copies of the MYHM variant are susceptible to rapid muscle loss, muscle weakness, stiffness or tying up.

Learn more about MYHM and other conditions in the Genetic Health Panel online and in “Chrome-O-Some Compendium” on horseIQ.com, APHA’s interactive online learning platform.

The addition of MYHM to the testing lineup is automatic as of November 18, 2024. Testing ordered prior to that date does not include MYHM, though it can be added to the existing sample for a nominal fee.

Results for MYHM will be recorded at APHA and printed on the horse’s official registration certificate, if on file when a certificate is generated.

The Genetic Health Panel requirements for breeding stallions remains unchanged. All breeding stallions (APHA, AQHA and Jockey Club) require testing for HYPP, HERDA, GBED, MH, PSSM1 and OLWS. Additional testing for MYHM is not required for breeding stallion compliance.

Order DNA testing for your Paint at PHcentral.com or etalondx.com.