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Myokymia and Neuromyotonia

• Description
• Signalment
• Clinical Features
• Neurolocalization
• Genetics

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Myokymia consists of wave-form or “serpent-like” movements of the skin due to contraction of thin cutaneous muscles. Myokymia may also be associated with neuromyotonia which is characterized by repetitive contraction of muscle fibers secondary to hyperexcitability of peripheral neurons. Muscles affected may be focal to one limb or diffusely affecting all limbs. Myokymia may also be associated with post-radiation therapy at the site of therapy.

Age of Onset: Any age can be affected, onset most commonly occurs in younger dogs (Less than 3 years of age)

Sex Predisposition: Any sex of animal can be affected

Clinical Course:
​Clinical signs are worsened by episodes of excitement, exercise, or stress. The mean duration of neuromyotonic episodes are commonly between 1-3 hours but could be shorter or longer.

Clinical Signs:
Behavioral/Mental Awareness
Vocalization
Face rubbing

Posture and Appearance
Vermiform movement of the skin

Movement
Spinocerebellar ataxia
​Sustained generalized muscle stiffness
Muscle twitching
Muscle stiffness/Delayed muscle relaxation
Collapse

Other:
Hyperthermia
​Epilepsy​​

Diffuse neuromuscular

Jack Russell Terrier dogs may exhibit myokymia and neuromytonia associated with spinocerebellar ataxia. In these patient, clinical signs have been linked to autosomal recessive inheritance of a KCNJ10 variant gene. However, hereditary basis has not been reported in dogs with myokymia and neuromyotonia alone. 

For breed specific genetic testing, follow the link below:
​http://www.jrt-research.com/testing/
https://www.eurovetgene.com/spinocerebellar-ataxia-sca-mutation-2

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References