Polymyositis
Also known as: Immune-mediated polymyositis · Inflammatory myopathy · Immunvermittelte Polymyositis · Inflammatorische Myopathie
Overview
What it is
Polymyositis is an inflammatory disease where the dog's immune system mistakenly attacks its own skeletal muscles. This immune-mediated response leads to widespread inflammation and damage to muscle tissue throughout the body. Over time, this weakens the muscles responsible for movement and basic functions.
How it presents
Owners typically notice symptoms in young to middle-aged dogs, including a stiff or awkward gait, muscle loss, and general weakness. Some dogs may also experience difficulty swallowing or regurgitating food due to throat muscle weakness.
Treatment
While the condition is treatable, it usually requires lifelong management with immunosuppressive medications to control the inflammation. Regular veterinary check-ups and blood tests are necessary, with overall treatment costs typically ranging from 1,500 to 6,000 EUR.
How it's tested
Muskelbiopsie und Histopathologie(Muskelbiopsie)
Primary testClinical examDie Diagnose der Polymyositis wird durch eine Muskelbiopsie gesichert, bei der entzündliche Infiltrate und Muskelfasernekrosen histopathologisch nachgewiesen werden.
Issuing body: vet
Result scheme: Clear/Carrier/Affected
Affected breeds
Treatment cost
Estimated range of typical treatment cost. Actual cost depends on severity, clinic and region.
Frequently asked
What is Polymyositis?
Polymyositis is an inflammatory disease where the dog's immune system mistakenly attacks its own skeletal muscles. This immune-mediated response leads to widespread inflammation and damage to muscle tissue throughout the body. Over time, this weakens the muscles responsible for movement and basic functions.
How is Polymyositis tested?
Tests currently in our database: Muskelbiopsie und Histopathologie.
Which breeds are most affected?
This condition isn't tied to a specific breed in our database.