Reverse Degenerative Myelopathy: A New Hope for Canine Health

Degenerative myelopathy is a devastating disease that affects many canine breeds, causing progressive paralysis and loss of motor function.

This debilitating condition is often diagnosed in older dogs, but research suggests that it can also affect younger dogs, particularly those with a family history of the disease.

A new study has identified a potential genetic link to degenerative myelopathy, which could lead to the development of targeted treatments and potentially even a cure.

Early detection and intervention are key to slowing the progression of the disease, and researchers are exploring the use of genetic testing to identify at-risk dogs.

Degenerative myelopathy is a diagnosis of exclusion, which means other diseases with similar clinical signs have to be ruled out first.

A blood sample may be taken to rule out metabolic causes of spinal cord dysfunction, such as cobalamin deficiency, and for genetic testing for the degenerative myelopathy associated genetic mutation.

Degenerative myelopathy is suspected based on clinical signs, breed, and age, and is supported by the absence of other clinical diseases.

Degenerative myelopathy is a diagnosis of exclusion, which means that other diseases with similar clinical signs have to be ruled out first.

The suspected diagnosis is based on clinical signs, breed, and age, and is supported by the absence of other clinical diseases.

A blood sample may be taken to rule out metabolic causes of spinal cord dysfunction, such as cobalamin deficiency.

Genetic testing for the degenerative myelopathy associated genetic mutation may also be performed.

Older dogs may be affected by more than one disease process, for example, intervertebral disc disease.

The presence of other diseases does not exclude the presence of degenerative myelopathy, and vice versa.

Degenerative myelopathy is a complex condition that requires a thorough diagnostic process to confirm the diagnosis.

Advanced diagnostic imaging, such as an MRI scan of the spinal cord, may be recommended to support the diagnosis.

A sample of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) may also be obtained to allow analysis and exclusion of other disease processes.

Degenerative myelopathy is a complex condition, and understanding its causes and risk factors is crucial for early detection and management.

Genetics play a significant role in degenerative myelopathy, with certain breeds being more prone to the condition. The breed with the highest incidence of degenerative myelopathy is the Great Dane.

Family history is also a significant risk factor, with some breeds having a higher incidence of the condition due to genetic predisposition. For example, the Great Dane has a high incidence of degenerative myelopathy due to its genetic makeup.

Age is another critical risk factor, with most cases of degenerative myelopathy occurring in dogs over the age of 6. This is because the condition is a progressive one, and older dogs are more likely to have underlying health issues that can contribute to its development.

Degenerative myelopathy is a progressive condition, meaning it worsens over time. This is why early detection and management are crucial in slowing its progression and improving the dog's quality of life.

Early intervention is key, as studies have shown that addressing the disease process within the first six months can significantly slow disease progression.

Physical therapy and rehabilitation can help maintain muscle mass and mobility in affected dogs.

Exercise and activity modification are crucial to prevent further degeneration and maintain quality of life.

With proper care and management, some dogs have been able to live for several years after diagnosis, although their quality of life may be impacted.

Physical therapy is a crucial part of managing DM in dogs. It slows the clinical progression of the disease and keeps dogs ambulatory much longer than those that don't receive it.

PT appointments typically involve professional sessions once or twice a week. At these sessions, your dog will receive laser treatments and underwater treadmill therapy.

Massage and core-strengthening exercises are also key components of PT for DM. These exercises help improve your dog's mobility and reduce muscle wasting.

Daily recommended exercises at home are an essential part of a comprehensive PT plan. By combining professional sessions with daily exercises, you can help your dog maintain their mobility and quality of life.

Researchers are working on a project called Project DM to find a treatment for dogs with DM. The project is a collaborative effort between four veterinary teaching hospitals.

The researchers are testing a drug called riluzole, which has been approved by the FDA for treating ALS in people. It combats the build-up of glutamate and has been shown to prolong life in human ALS patients.

Dogs with DM can be part of the study if they meet certain criteria, such as being in the early stages of the disease. They'll need to travel to one of the universities involved for repeated testing.

The clinical trial will take place at the University of Missouri, the Ohio State University, Tufts University, and North Carolina State University. Researchers hope to start the clinical trial by late fall.

Elevated NfL levels in the blood occur in response to injuries to axons, and studying these levels has been suggested as a way to monitor ALS progression.

Degenerative myelopathy is a diagnosis of exclusion, which means that other diseases with similar clinical signs have to be excluded by the neurologist first.

A blood sample may be taken to rule out metabolic causes of spinal cord dysfunction, such as cobalamin deficiency, and also for genetic testing for the degenerative myelopathy associated genetic mutation.

Degenerative myelopathy is often diagnosed in older dogs, who may be affected by more than one disease process, like intervertebral disc disease.

Advanced diagnostic imaging, such as an MRI scan of the spinal cord, will likely be recommended to help diagnose degenerative myelopathy.

A sample of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) may also be obtained to allow analysis and exclusion of other disease processes.

Your dog will need to have a general anaesthetic to undergo MRI and CSF analysis, but they'll have dedicated one-to-one care from a trained and experienced nurse during the procedure.