Degenerative Myelopathy 中文:Progressive Spinal Cord Disease in Dogs

Degenerative myelopathy in dogs is a progressive spinal cord disease that affects the nerves in the spinal cord, leading to loss of motor function and eventually paralysis.

The disease typically starts with a loss of coordination and balance, causing dogs to stumble or have trouble walking.

In the early stages, dogs may also experience weakness in their legs, which can make it difficult for them to stand or walk properly.

As the disease progresses, dogs may lose the ability to walk altogether and may become paralyzed from the neck down.

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Degenerative myelopathy is a progressive disease that affects older dogs. The spinal cord, a cylinder-shaped structure of nervous tissue, is divided into multiple segments in dogs, including cervical, thoracic, lumbar, sacral, and caudal segments.

The spinal cord is surrounded by a protective layer called the meninges and ultimately encased within the vertebral canal. This is a normal anatomy in dogs.

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The degeneration of degenerative myelopathy begins in the thoracic segments of the spinal cord. It is characterized by demyelination and axonal loss, which means the loss of the insulating structure around axons and actual loss of nerve fibers that transmit messages.

Here's a breakdown of the thoracic segments where degeneration begins:

Degenerative myelopathy is a progressive disease that affects older dogs. It's a serious condition that affects the spinal cord.

The spinal cord is a cylinder-shaped structure of nervous tissue that's divided into multiple segments in dogs. These segments are cervical (8), thoracic (13), lumbar (7), sacral (3), and caudal (5).

Degenerative myelopathy starts in the thoracic segments of the spinal cord. This is where the degeneration begins, characterized by the loss of white matter.

The loss of white matter is due to demyelination, which is the loss of the insulating structure around axons. Axons are nerve fibers that transmit messages.

The degeneration of the spinal cord leads to improper connections between the brain and pelvic limbs. This results in a range of symptoms, including loss of coordination and mobility.

Degenerative Myelopathy, or DM, is a progressive neurological disease that affects dogs. It's a heartbreaking condition that can be devastating for pet owners.

According to the American Kennel Club, DM is the most common cause of hind limb paralysis in dogs. This means that as the disease progresses, dogs may experience weakness, stumbling, and eventually, complete paralysis of their hind legs.

The OFA (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals) notes that DM is a degenerative condition, meaning it worsens over time. This is why it's essential to catch the disease early and work with a veterinarian to develop a treatment plan.

Degenerative Myelopathy is not just a canine disease, it can also affect other animals, including horses. However, it's much more common in dogs, particularly in breeds such as the German Shepherd, Labrador Retriever, and Shetland Sheepdog.

The OFA website states that DM is a genetic disease, and some breeds are more prone to it than others. This is why responsible breeding practices are essential to reduce the risk of DM in dogs.

Degenerative myelopathy (DM) is a progressive and incurable disease that affects the spinal cord. The exact cause of DM is still unknown, but research suggests it may be related to a genetic mutation.

Age is a significant risk factor for DM, as it typically affects dogs over the age of 7. Some breeds, such as the German Shepherd and Labrador Retriever, are more prone to DM due to their genetic makeup.

Certain dog breeds are more susceptible to degenerative myelopathy (DM) due to their genetic makeup. Some of these breeds include German Shepherd Dogs, Boxers, and Pembroke Welsh Corgis.

German Shepherd Dogs are particularly prone to DM, with many cases reported in this breed. Their genetic predisposition makes them more likely to develop the condition.

Boxers, on the other hand, can also be affected by DM, with their breed history playing a role in their susceptibility.

Pembroke Welsh Corgis, while known for their intelligence and loyalty, are also at risk of developing DM due to their breed characteristics.

Other breeds that may be affected by DM include Chesapeake Bay Retrievers, Rhodesian Ridgebacks, and Bernese Mountain Dogs.

Genetics play a significant role in determining a dog's risk of developing DM. A mutation in the SOD1 gene, specifically the SOD1A variant, is the primary cause of DM in most dog breeds.

Dogs with two copies of the SOD1A variant are at a higher risk of developing DM, although it's not guaranteed they will develop the disease.

A dog that's a carrier, possessing one copy of the variant, may still develop DM, but the progression of the disease is typically slower than in a dog with two copies of the variant.

Pembroke Welsh Corgis have a genetic modifier that causes an earlier onset of clinical signs, making them more susceptible to DM.

Bernese Mountain Dogs should be tested for both the SOD1A and B variants to assess their risk of developing DM, as the SOD1B variant is specific to this breed.

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Degenerative myelopathy is a condition that can be challenging to diagnose. There is no specific test to diagnose DM while a patient is living.

Several tests may need to be performed to rule out other potential spinal cord diseases, including a neurological exam, blood work, X-rays, MRI or CT scan, and spinal fluid analysis.

Genetic testing can show if a patient has one or two copies of the variants associated with the development of DM. This can provide valuable information for diagnosis and treatment.

Ruling out other disease processes requires advanced diagnostic procedures like magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Researchers have found that phosphorylated neurofilament heavy proteins (pNF-H) levels are increased in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of dogs with degenerative myelopathy compared to normal dogs and those with mimicking non-degenerative spinal cord conditions.

If you suspect your dog may have degenerative myelopathy, it's essential to partner with a board-certified veterinary neurologist to explore your diagnostic options. They can help determine the best course of action for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

Degenerative myelopathy in dogs is a serious condition that requires meticulous care and attention.

Rehabilitation therapy, including acupuncture and hydrotherapy, may be helpful in managing the condition. This can help improve the dog's quality of life and reduce discomfort.

Dogs with degenerative myelopathy should be kept clean to prevent urine scalding and skin ulcerations. This includes regular grooming and cleaning of the genital area.

Using comfortable bedding can help prevent bed sores in dogs with degenerative myelopathy. This can be especially important for dogs that are unable to move around much.

Maintaining an ideal body weight is crucial for dogs with degenerative myelopathy. Overweight and obese dogs are more prone to complications like bed sores and respiratory problems.

Partnering with a board-certified sports medicine and rehabilitation specialist or a certified canine rehabilitation therapist can help develop a personalized rehabilitation program for your dog.

Degenerative myelopathy is a progressive and incurable disease that affects the spinal cord. It's a leading cause of paralysis in dogs.

The disease affects the myelin sheath, a fatty insulating layer that surrounds nerve fibers, causing damage to the spinal cord. This damage disrupts communication between the brain and the rest of the body.

Symptoms of degenerative myelopathy include loss of coordination, weakness, and paralysis in the hind legs. As the disease progresses, it can affect the front legs and even the ability to breathe.

Degenerative myelopathy is often genetic, with several breeds being more susceptible to the disease. The disease typically affects dogs between 4 to 11 years old.

There is no cure for degenerative myelopathy, but treatment can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

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