Degenerative myelopathy.
DM in the German Shepherd is an immune-related disorder whose clinical signs are explained by a widespread degeneration of the white matter pathways in the thoracolumbar spinal cord. Therapy includes exercise, vitamin supplementation, and EACA medication. Avoiding unnecessary surgical procedures is also important to preclude permanent deterioration that can result following surgery in DM patients. In dogs other than German Shepherds, other identifiable causes should be treated. Additional confirmation of the diagnosis of DM may be assisted by performing cell-mediated immune studies or other serodiagnostic tests as they become available.
Clemmons
R M
RM
Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, University of Florida College of Veterinary Medicine, Gainesville.
D000818:Animals; D001947:Breeding; D004283:Dog Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000209:etiology / Q000628:therapy; D004285:Dogs; D013118:Spinal Cord Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology / Q000628:therapy / Q000662:veterinary*