Overview
Canine degenerative myelopathy, or chronic degenerative radiculomyelopathy, is an uncommon disease that is believed to be genetically inherited. Canine degenerative myelopathy cannot be cured, but as more information becomes available, newer and more effective treatments are emerging.
Canine degenerative myelopathy is diagnosed most often in German Shepherd and Welsh Corgi dog breeds. The illness generally begins between five and fourteen years of age.
The Disease
The condition involves a slow deterioration of insulating sheaths, called myelin, which wrap around neurons located in the spinal cord. As these sheaths break down, the neurons become exposed and damaged.
As the neurons become damaged, the communication signals between the brain and the spinal cord become impaired. The result is a slow progressive lameness that develops in the back legs. As the disease advances, paralysis and incontinence occur. The speed at which the myelin sheaths deteriorate is different for every dog. Some dogs do not become paralyzed for years, and other dogs become paralyzed within months.
Diagnosing Degenerative Myelopathy
Degenerative myelopathy is a diagnosis of elimination. Other diseases that can mimic this condition and are more treatable are; degenerative joint disease (arthritis), hip dysplasia, a disc-herniation, or lumbo-sacral disease
Once other diseases have been ruled out your vet will end up with a presumptive diagnosis of Degenerative Myelopathy. The only way to confirm the diagnosis is to examine the spinal cord under the microscope when a necropsy (autopsy) is performed.
Treatment Options
While there is currently no cure for canine degenerative myelopathy, there are treatments which can help to slow down the progression of the disease.
- Supplements: Aminocaproic acid (EACE) and n-acetylcysteine (NAC)
- Exercise: Water treadmill, Swimming pool, Acupuncture
Prognosis
Since there is no cure for the disease, the outlook is not very good. If your dog has been diagnosed with canine degenerative myelopathy, you may want to seek the advice of a veterinarian that has had experience with this particular disease. Canine degenerative myelopathy is not a commonly diagnosed condition, and many veterinarians do not have experience with this disease. Your veterinarian may be able to provide you with a recommendation if you would like a specialist to treat your dog.