Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Bernese Mountain Dogs with liver and brain degeneration signs at 4-6
By Carmichael, K P et al.·Published in Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association·1996·Department of Pathology, United States·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: Clinical, hematologic, and biochemical features of a syndrome in Bernese mountain dogs characterized by hepatocerebellar degeneration.
- Species:
- dog
Plain-English summary
A group of seven related Bernese Mountain Dogs started showing signs of a serious condition when they were just 4 to 6 weeks old. Owners noticed stiffness in their hind legs, mild coordination issues, and slight head tremors, which worsened over time, leading to a wide stance and more severe symptoms like head bobbing and weakness. Tests revealed liver problems and changes in blood cell counts, indicating significant health issues. Sadly, the dogs had severe liver and brain damage when examined after death, suggesting this condition may be inherited. Unfortunately, there was no effective treatment identified for these dogs.
People also search for: Bernese Mountain Dog liver disease symptoms · puppy coordination problems · inherited dog diseases · dog head tremors causes · liver problems in dogs treatment
Abstract
Seven related Bernese Mountain Dogs developed a syndrome Characterized by progressive cerebellar and hepatic disease. Clinically, stiffness in the hind limbs, mild incoordination, and a slight head tremor were first noticeable when pups were 4 to 6 weeks old. The condition progressed, causing pups to assume a wide-based stance. Other signs included head bobbing, spontaneous nystagmus, and, finally, paresis. Hematologic findings included leukocytosis with a left shift; normocytic, normochromic anemia; hypoproteinemia, low serum creatinine, and urea nitrogen concentrations; excessive fasting plasma ammonia concentration; and an increase in concentration of serum bile acids. Portal venography performed on 1 dog revealed a small liver and extensive extrahepatic varicosities. Necropsy revealed cerebellar hypoplasia, nodular liver, extensive abdominal varicosities, and ascites. Histologically, degeneration and depletion of Purkinje's cells and vacuolation, degeneration, and nodular regeneration of hepatic tissues were evident. Preliminary analysis of the pedigree was suggestive of an autosomal recessive pattern of inheritance.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8635971/