Autoimmune Polymyositis
An immune-mediated primary myositis involving muscle cell degeneration, necrosis, and apoptosis. It is thought to be mediated by cytotoxic lymphocyte mechanisms.
Age of Onset: Younger animals are more commonly affected (average age of 4 years)
Sex Predisposition: Any sex of animal can be affected
Clinical Course:
Variable
Variable
Clinical Signs:
Posture and Appearance
Exophthalmos
Movement
Generalized weakness
“Stiff” gait (shorter interstep distance and limbs in a more extended posture)
Cranial Nerves
Dysphagia
Special Functions (e.g. respiration; urination)
Megaesophagus
Muscle Atrophy
Diffuse or focal muscle atrophy
Masticatory muscle atrophy
Pain Sensation
May have muscle pain on palpation
Other
Fever
Dysphonia
Posture and Appearance
Exophthalmos
Movement
Generalized weakness
“Stiff” gait (shorter interstep distance and limbs in a more extended posture)
Cranial Nerves
Dysphagia
Special Functions (e.g. respiration; urination)
Megaesophagus
Muscle Atrophy
Diffuse or focal muscle atrophy
Masticatory muscle atrophy
Pain Sensation
May have muscle pain on palpation
Other
Fever
Dysphonia
Diffuse muscle
Unknown
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