Megaoesophagus due to acrylamide neuropathy.

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Neurology
• Toxicology
• Gastroenterology

Background:

• Acrylamide is a neurotoxin implicated in peripheral neuropathy across species.
• Oesophageal dysfunction, specifically megaoesophagus, is a recognized condition in dogs.
• The link between acrylamide exposure and megaoesophagus has not been previously established.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effects of oral acrylamide administration in greyhounds.
• To characterize the neurological and gastrointestinal changes induced by acrylamide.
• To explore the potential role of acrylamide-induced neuropathy in the development of megaoesophagus.

Main Methods:

• Greyhound dogs were administered oral acrylamide for eight weeks.
• Neurological examinations were performed to assess sensorimotor function.
• Clinical signs and radiological findings related to the oesophagus were evaluated.

Main Results:

• Acrylamide exposure resulted in sensorimotor peripheral neuropathy in greyhounds.
• The observed neuropathy shared characteristics with acrylamide-induced neuropathy in other species.
• A significant proportion of dogs also exhibited clinical and radiological signs of megaoesophagus.

Conclusions:

• Oral acrylamide induces peripheral neuropathy in greyhounds.
• The co-occurrence of neuropathy and megaoesophagus suggests a potential link.
• Acrylamide-induced axonopathy of the vagus nerve may be an aetiological factor in canine megaoesophagus.