title: Confirmed 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid toxicosis in a dog.
abstract: A 2-year-old, intact male Weimaraner was evaluated for episodic extensor rigidity and a stiff gait of 24 hours' duration. Percussion of the proximal appendicular muscles with a reflex hammer resulted in formation of dimples consistent with myotonia. Electromyography identified myotonic potentials. Residues of 2,4-dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4-D) were detected in both serum and urine. The dog was treated with intravenous fluid therapy for 36 hours, and clinical signs improved dramatically. Toxicosis with 2,4-D should be considered a differential for acquired myotonia in dogs with or without systemic signs. Exposed dogs with only clinical signs of myotonia can have good clinical outcomes. A confirmed clinical case of 2,4-D toxicosis in the dog has not previously been reported.
authors.affiliation: Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Washington State University, 100 Grimes Way, Pullman, Washington 99164, USA.
authors.forename: Annie V
authors.initials: AV
authors.lastname: Chen
authors.forename: Rodney S
authors.initials: RS
authors.lastname: Bagley
authors.forename: Patricia A
authors.initials: PA
authors.lastname: Talcott
mesh_terms: D015084:2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic Acid / Q000506:poisoning*; D000818:Animals; D004283:Dog Diseases / Q000139:chemically induced* / Q000628:therapy; D004285:Dogs; D004576:Electromyography / Q000662:veterinary; D005440:Fluid Therapy; D006540:Herbicides / Q000506:poisoning*; D008297:Male; D009222:Myotonia / Q000139:chemically induced / Q000628:therapy / Q000662:veterinary*; D016896:Treatment Outcome
chemical_list: D006540:Herbicides; D015084:2,4-Dichlorophenoxyacetic Acid