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This form of non-inflammatory myopathy is a type of muscle disease caused by endocrine maladies such as hypo- and hyperthyroidism. However, non-inflammatory myopathy of endocrine origin has also been associated with corticosteroid use.
Symptoms and Types
- Muscle weakness
- Loss of muscle bulk
- Stiffness
- Cramps
- Regurgitation
- Difficulty in swallowing (dysphagia)
- Hoarseness (dysphonia)
Causes
Ultimately, this type of non-inflammatory myopathy is due to an endocrine disorder -- such as hyperadrenocorticism, hypothyroidism, or hyperthyroidism -- but may be immune-mediated or neoplastic in nature.
Diagnosis
You will need to give a thorough history of your dog’s health, including the onset and nature of the symptoms, to the veterinarian. He or she will then conduct a complete physical examination as well as a biochemistry profile, urinalysis, and complete blood count (CBC) to determine the type of endocrine disorder. Your veterinarian will also conduct thyroid and adrenal gland functions tests to confirm the diagnosis.
X-rays are conducted to evaluate pharyngeal and esophageal functions -- especially in patients with regurgitation and dysphagia -- while muscle samples are sent to veterinary pathologist for further evaluation.
regurgitation
The return of food into the oral cavity after it has been swallowed
urinalysis
An in-depth examination of the properties of urine; used to determine the presence or absence of illness
prognosis
The prediction of a disease’s outcome in advance
myopathy
A condition of the muscles in which they are diseased
dysphagia
Condition in which eating and/or swallowing is difficult
adrenal gland
The gland that produces the hormone adrenaline and others; helps to regulate the metabolism, electrolytes, and even sexual function; also helps to regulate the way the body responds to injury, trauma, etc. The adrenal gland is found near the kidney. Also referred to as the suprarenal gland.