Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Dogs unable to close their mouths due to trigeminal nerve problems
By Mayhew, Philipp D et al.·Published in Journal of the American Animal Hospital Association·2002·Department of Clinical Studies, United States·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: Trigeminal neuropathy in dogs: a retrospective study of 29 cases (1991-2000).
- Species:
- dog
Plain-English summary
A group of dogs, mostly golden retrievers, were brought in because they couldn't close their mouths due to weakness in the jaw muscles. This condition, known as trigeminal neuropathy, was diagnosed in most cases, and the dogs showed improvement over time. While some had additional nerve issues, most recovered completely within about 22 days. Unfortunately, corticosteroid treatment didn't help, but the good news is that the majority of these dogs returned to normal without long-term problems.
People also search for: dog mouth can't close · golden retriever trigeminal neuropathy · dog jaw weakness treatment
Abstract
The medical records of 29 dogs unable to close their mouths due to flaccid paralysis or paresis of the muscles innervated by the mandibular branch of the trigeminal nerve, were reviewed. Idiopathic trigeminal neuropathy was diagnosed in 26 dogs based on complete resolution of clinical signs and lack of any long-term neurological disease. Of these dogs, golden retrievers were overrepresented. No age, sex, or seasonal predispositions were identified. Trigeminal sensory innervation deficits were observed in 35% (9/26), facial nerve deficits were observed in 8% (2/26), and Horner's syndrome was observed in 8% (2/26) of dogs. Electromyographic examination of the muscles of mastication revealed abnormalities in seven of nine dogs. Results of cerebrospinal fluid analysis were abnormal in seven of eight dogs. Corticosteroid therapy did not affect the clinical course of the disease. Mean time to recovery was 22 days. Lymphosarcoma, Neospora caninum infection, and severe polyneuritis of unknown origin were diagnosed in three of 29 dogs at necropsy.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12022413/