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An unusual myopathy in a dog
1Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Massey University, Palmerston North.
New Zealand Veterinary Journal
|August 1, 1982
Summary
A young Cavalier King Charles Spaniel experienced tongue protrusion and feeding difficulties due to a rare myopathy. Histological findings suggest a condition similar to human paramyotonia.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Neurology
- Comparative Pathology
- Canine Myopathies
Background:
- A nine-month-old Cavalier King Charles Spaniel presented with persistent tongue protrusion and dysphagia since two months of age.
- Clinical signs included inability to retract the tongue, difficulty eating, and drinking.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the underlying cause of the observed neurological and muscular deficits in the affected dog.
- To characterize the pathological features of this canine myopathy.
- To compare the condition with known human neuromuscular disorders.
Main Methods:
- Clinical examination including assessment of tongue function.
- Percussion testing of the tongue.
- Electromyography (EMG) to evaluate muscle electrical activity.
- Histopathological examination of tongue muscle biopsies.
Main Results:
- Percussion of the tongue produced a dimple, indicative of muscular abnormality.
- Electromyography revealed evidence of myotonia (delayed muscle relaxation).
- Histology showed muscle fiber replacement by adipose tissue, myonecrosis, inflammation, and nuclear changes, consistent with a primary myopathy.
Conclusions:
- The clinical and pathological findings are consistent with a primary myopathy in this Cavalier King Charles Spaniel.
- The condition shares similarities with human paramyotonia, suggesting a potential comparative model.
- No affected relatives were identified, indicating a possible sporadic occurrence or unknown inheritance pattern.