Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Imaging findings in a young dog with Becker-like muscular dystrophy
By Costanzo, Giulia et al.·Published in Veterinary radiology & ultrasound : the official journal of the American College of Veterinary Radiology and the International Veterinary Radiology Association·2023·AniCura Istituto Veterinario Novara, Italy·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: Radiographic, MRI, and CT findings in a young dog with Becker-like muscular dystrophy.
- Species:
- dog
Plain-English summary
An 8-month-old male crossbreed dog was brought to the vet because he had a swollen tongue, trouble swallowing, excessive drooling, and was regurgitating food. Blood tests showed high levels of certain enzymes, indicating muscle issues. X-rays revealed a hernia in the esophagus and thickening of the diaphragm, while MRI showed an enlarged tongue and muscle weakness in the jaw area. Further tests confirmed he had Becker muscular dystrophy, a condition affecting muscle strength. Unfortunately, this condition is progressive, and while supportive care can help manage symptoms, there is no cure.
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Abstract
An 8-month-old, male, crossbreed dog was presented for macroglossia, reduced mandibular extension, ptyalism, dysphagia, and regurgitation. Serum creatine kinase and aspartate aminotransferase activity were markedly increased. Thoracic radiographs showed an axial gastro-esophageal hiatal hernia, diaphragmatic thickening, and asymmetry. Magnetic resonance imaging of the head showed a severely enlarged tongue, symmetric increase in size of the geniohyoid and mylohyoid muscles, and diffuse masticatory hypomyotrophy. Whole-body CT ruled out other musculoskeletal abnormalities and further characterized the radiographic and MRI findings. Muscular histopathology was consistent with Becker muscular dystrophy.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36550687/