Dysautonomia in dogs: 65 cases (1993-2000).
OBJECTIVE
To determine signalment, history, clinical findings, results of autonomic function testing and other antemortem diagnostic tests, and pathologic findings in dogs with dysautonomia.


METHODS
Retrospective study.


METHODS
65 dogs with dysautonomia.


METHODS
Case records of 68 dogs with a diagnosis of dysautonomia were reviewed; inclusion criteria included histologic confirmation of dysautonomia or clinical signs and results of pharmacologic testing consistent with dysautonomia.


RESULTS
65 dogs fulfilled all criteria for dysautonomia. Dogs from rural environments were overrepresented, and cases of dysautonomia were reported for every month, although the highest number of cases was reported in February and March. Vomiting was the most common clinical sign, followed by diarrhea, signs of anorexia and depression, weight loss, and dysuria. The most common physical examination finding was decreased or absent anal tone, followed by absent pupillary light reflexes and elevated nictitating membrane. Results of pharmacologic testing were consistent with dysautonomia, although no single test was 100% sensitive. Histologic lesions consistent with dysautonomia were found in the autonomic ganglia, brainstem nuclei, and ventral horns of the spinal cord.


CONCLUSIONS
Dysautonomia is an endemic disease in Kansas, and a high index of suspicion of the disease can be made by combining clinical signs, physical examination findings, and results of pharmacologic testing.
Harkin
Kenneth R
KR
Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan 66506-5701, USA.
Andrews
Gordon A
GA
Nietfeld
Jerome C
JC
D000367:Age Factors; D000818:Animals; D000855:Anorexia / Q000209:etiology / Q000662:veterinary; D001342:Autonomic Nervous System Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000473:pathology / Q000662:veterinary*; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D003967:Diarrhea / Q000209:etiology / Q000662:veterinary; D004283:Dog Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000473:pathology; D004285:Dogs; D005260:Female; D007615:Kansas / Q000453:epidemiology; D008297:Male; D010375:Pedigree; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D012307:Risk Factors; D012424:Rural Population; D012621:Seasons; D014839:Vomiting / Q000209:etiology / Q000662:veterinary