Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Sudden severe muscle weakness and regurgitation in dogs
By King, L G & Vite, C H·Published in Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association·1998·Department of Clinical Studies, United States·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: Acute fulminating myasthenia gravis in five dogs.
- Species:
- dog
Plain-English summary
Five dogs were diagnosed with a serious condition called acute fulminating myasthenia gravis, which caused them to suddenly regurgitate large amounts of fluid and experience severe muscle weakness. This weakness can worsen quickly, leading to difficulty standing or even lying down. Unfortunately, despite receiving supportive care, the dogs struggled with their symptoms, and respiratory failure from aspiration pneumonia (when food or liquid enters the lungs) was a common and serious complication. If your dog shows signs of sudden regurgitation and weakness, it’s important to consult your veterinarian about the possibility of myasthenia gravis.
People also search for: dog regurgitation and weakness · myasthenia gravis in dogs · aspiration pneumonia in dogs · dog muscle weakness treatment
Abstract
Acute fulminating myasthenia gravis (MG) was diagnosed in 5 dogs. Acute fulminating generalized MG in dogs is characterized by sudden onset of megaesophagus and frequent regurgitation of large volumes of fluid. Generalized muscle weakness can worsen and lead to recumbency within days. Despite appropriate supportive care, weakness is not alleviated by rest. Respiratory failure caused by aspiration pneumonia and loss of strength in muscles involved with respiration is a common cause of death. In dogs with acute onset of regurgitation, MG should be considered as a differential diagnosis. Clinicians should be aware of the risk of rapid progression to quadriparesis if aspiration pneumonia develops.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9530421/