Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Neurologic signs linked to hypothyroidism in dogs and treatment
By Jaggy, A et al.·Published in Schweizer Archiv fur Tierheilkunde·1994·Institut fü·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: [Neurologic symptoms in relation to hypothyroidism in the dog: review of the literature and case reports].
- Species:
- dog
Plain-English summary
A 6-year-old Labrador, a 7-year-old Beagle, and two other dogs were brought in showing signs of weakness, difficulty walking, and other neurological issues due to hypothyroidism (an underactive thyroid). The veterinarians diagnosed them through various tests, including blood tests and nerve examinations. Three of the dogs improved significantly after starting treatment with Eltroxine (Levothyroxine), a medication that helps manage thyroid hormone levels. Unfortunately, one dog had severe complications and had to be euthanized due to megaesophagus and pneumonia.
People also search for: dog weakness and difficulty walking · hypothyroidism in dogs treatment · Eltroxine for dogs · dog neurological symptoms · megaesophagus in dogs
Abstract
Primary hypothyroidism is commonly associated with lethargy, alopecia, hyperpigmentation, alterations in skin and hair coat, anestrus and bradycardia. However, there is also a neurological manifestation of hypothyroidism with neuromuscular signs. Four dogs with generalized polyneuropathy are described. Two dogs had peripheral vestibular signs, two other lower motor neuron disease with megaesophagus. Diagnosis was based on neurological examination, TSH-stimulation test and electrodiagnostic findings including electromyography, motor nerve conduction velocity and brainstem evoked potentials. On histological examination lymphocytic thyroiditis was diagnosed in two cases. Three dogs recovered after supplementation with Eltroxine (Levothyroxine) and one dog was euthanatized because of megaesophagus and concomitant aspiration pneumonia.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8091179/