Brain Cell Degeneration in Dogs

Neuroaxonal Dystrophy in Dogs

 

The term abiotrophy is used to denote loss of function due to degeneration of cells or tissues without known reasons. Neuroaxonal dystrophy is a group of inherited abiotrophies affecting different parts of brain in dogs. Rottweilers, collies, German shepherds, chihuahuas, and boxers are some of the breeds known to be predisposed to this inherited disorder of the brain.

 

Symptoms and Types

 

The symptoms depend on the part of brain being affected.

 

• Uncoordinated movements
• Abnormal placement of limbs while walking
• Strength in limbs is usually normal in affected patients
• Mild tremor of head and neck
• Other nervous symptoms

 

Causes

 

• No known cause - idiopathic
• Inherited factors

 

Diagnosis

 

You will need to give a thorough history of your dog's health, including background history and a descriptions of the onset of symptoms. After taking a complete history, your veterinarian will conduct a complete physical examination. Laboratory tests include a complete blood count (CBC), biochemistry profile, and urinalysis. The results of these routine laboratory tests are usually within normal ranges. Diagnosis of neuroaxonal dystrophy is usually accomplished by differential diagnosis. That is, by excluding other diseases and conditions until the correct cause for the condition is settled upon. A concrete diagnosis is usually made during postmortem of affected patients.

 

Treatment

 

No specific treatment available to alter the course of this disease.

 

Living and Management

 

Activity is restricted in affected cats to prevent falls. This disease is not necessarily fatal, but may lead to incapacitation in affected cats. Observe your cat’s activity, and do what you can to make sure that your cat does not injure itself in preventable falls, such as with swimming pools and stairs.