Genex bulls tested for Idiopathic Epilepsy
Results as of 11/17/09 

Idiopathic Epilepsy (IE) in Hereford Cattle
Symptoms: Age of onset (occurrence of the first seizure) can be variable, ranging from birth to several months of age. Occurrence and persistence of seizures may be influenced by environmental stressors such as temperature extremes (e.g., extreme cold during calving) or increased physical activity (e.g., processing at vaccination or weaning). Upon initial onset of seizure episodes individuals will typically lie on their side with all limbs extended in a rigid state. Manual flexing of the limbs is possible, but return to the extended position occurs after release. Seizure episodes may last from several minutes to more than an hour. Autosomal recessive.
-No anatomic abnormalities or histologic lesions detected.
-Confirmation by American Hereford Association approved expert.

Breeding to Avoid Abnormalities
Breeders that may have a problem with a simple recessive abnormality can make use of available DNA-based diagnostic tests or implement mating systems designed to reduce the frequency of the abnormal gene in their herds and the breed. Where a DNA-based test is available, breeders can directly test animals for the presence of a specific mutation causing the disease. Animals confirmed to be carriers should be used cautiously, and serious consideration should be given to their removal from the seedstock breeding herd. However, breeders should guard against carelessly throwing away good genetics because a sire or dam is a carrier unless that animal's good characteristics remain available in the breed from another source. In the absence of a DNA-based test, mating systems should rely on the use of bulls known not to have produced affected calves. Sons of carrier animals can be used if they have been tested free of the abnormality through a series of special test matings. Mating a bull to seven affected females, 17 carrier cows or 35 of his own daughters with no abnormal offspring provides three ways to test for the presence of a recessive gene. With specific regard to non-lethal abnormalities, each breeder must assess the potential economic impact the abnormality may have on his operation.