Masticatory muscle myositis (MMM)(MMM)
Also known as: Masticatory Muscle Myositis · Eosinophilic Myositis · Atrophic Myositis · Kaumuskelmyositis · Eosinophile Myositis des Hundes
Overview
What it is
Masticatory muscle myositis is an autoimmune disease where the dog's immune system mistakenly attacks the specialized muscle fibers used for chewing. This targeted attack causes severe inflammation and swelling in the muscles of the jaw and head. If left untreated, the ongoing inflammation can lead to permanent scarring and loss of muscle tissue.
How it presents
Owners typically notice their dog showing severe pain when trying to open its mouth, refusing to eat, or crying out when chewing. This condition usually first appears in young to middle-aged dogs, and over time, the muscles on top of the head may visibly shrink or waste away.
Treatment
The condition is treatable with long-term immunosuppressive medications, which may be required for several months or even for life. Diagnosis is confirmed using a specific 2M-antibody blood test, and overall treatment and monitoring costs typically range from 1,500 to 6,000 EUR.
How it's tested
2M-Antikörpertest(2M-Antikörper)
Primary testClinical examEin serologischer Bluttest (ELISA) zum Nachweis von spezifischen Autoantikörpern gegen die 2M-Muskelfasern der Kaumuskulatur.
Issuing body: vet
Result scheme: Clear/Carrier/Affected
Affected breeds
1 of 1 breeds
Treatment cost
Estimated range of typical treatment cost. Actual cost depends on severity, clinic and region.
Frequently asked
What is Masticatory muscle myositis (MMM)?
Masticatory muscle myositis is an autoimmune disease where the dog's immune system mistakenly attacks the specialized muscle fibers used for chewing. This targeted attack causes severe inflammation and swelling in the muscles of the jaw and head. If left untreated, the ongoing inflammation can lead to permanent scarring and loss of muscle tissue.
How is Masticatory muscle myositis (MMM) tested?
Tests currently in our database: 2M-Antikörpertest.
Which breeds are most affected?
Most commonly affected: German Shepherd.