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 2 years)
Sex Predisposition: Any sex of animal can be affected
Clinical Course:
Variable
Variable
Clinical Signs:
Posture and Appearance
Dysphagia
Generalized muscle atrophy
Dysphonia
Inability to open jaw
Exophthalmos
Masticatory muscle atrophy
Movement
Generalized weakness
“Stiff” gait (shorter interstep distance and limbs in a more extended posture)
Special Functions (e.g. respiration; urination)
Megaesophagus
Muscle Atrophy
Diffuse or focal
Pain Sensation
May have muscle pain on palpation
Other
Fever
Posture and Appearance
Dysphagia
Generalized muscle atrophy
Dysphonia
Inability to open jaw
Exophthalmos
Masticatory muscle atrophy
Movement
Generalized weakness
“Stiff” gait (shorter interstep distance and limbs in a more extended posture)
Special Functions (e.g. respiration; urination)
Megaesophagus
Muscle Atrophy
Diffuse or focal
Pain Sensation
May have muscle pain on palpation
Other
Fever
Muscle
Unknown
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