Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Weakness and limb deformities in a 9-week-old Saluki puppy
By Kent, M et al.·Published in Journal of the American Animal Hospital Association·1999·Tufts University School of Veterinary Medicine, United States·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: Motor neuron abiotrophy in a saluki.
- Species:
- dog
Plain-English summary
A nine-week-old Saluki puppy was brought to the vet because it was getting weaker and had deformities in its front legs. Tests showed that the puppy had issues with its motor neurons, which are responsible for muscle movement. The vet found signs of nerve and muscle damage, suggesting a genetic condition called motor neuron abiotrophy, which affects the puppy's ability to move properly. Unfortunately, this condition is likely inherited, and there is no cure, but supportive care may help manage symptoms.
People also search for: Saluki puppy weakness · motor neuron disease in dogs · puppy leg deformities treatment
Abstract
A nine-week-old saluki puppy was presented to Tufts University School of Veterinary Medicine for progressive, generalized weakness and bilateral forelimb deformities. Examination suggested a diffuse neuromuscular lesion. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis showed normal nucleated cell count and protein level; however, many macrophages had vacuolated cytoplasm. Electromyography (EMG) recordings suggested denervation in paraspinal and appendicular muscles. Tibial motor nerve conduction velocity was normal, but direct evoked muscle potential had reduced amplitude. Histopathology revealed diffuse, symmetrical, degenerative motor neuronopathy of the ventral horn of the spinal cord with associated lesions in nerves and muscles. Histopathology was consistent with an abiotrophy that was likely inherited.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10493421/