An unusual myopathy in a dog

Authors: Johnstone AC, Jones BR
Publication: New Zealand Veterinary Journal, Volume 30, Issue 8, pp 119-121, Aug 1982
Publisher: Taylor and Francis

Animal type: Companion animal, Dog
Subject Terms: Alimentary system/gastroenterology, Locomotor, Muscle/myology, Disease/defect, Oral/teeth
Article class: Clinical Communication

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Abstract: A nine-month-old Cavalier King Charles Spaniel was examined because it could not withdraw its tongue into its mouth and had difficulty eating and drinking. These clinical signs were first observed when the dog was two months of age. On percussion of the tongue a dimple could be produced and there was electromyographic evidence of myotonia. Histological examination showed replacement of muscle fibres by adipose tissue, focal areas of myonecrosis, neutrophil infiltration and proliferation of sub-sarcolemmal nuclei. These changes were considered to be consistent with a primary myopathy similar to paramyotonia in man. No related dogs were found to be affected.

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