Mega-oesophagus secondary to acquired myasthenia gravis |
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| Authors: | P S Yam G D Shelton J W Simpson |
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| Institution: | Veterinary Clinical Studies, Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh, Summerhall, Edinburgh EH9 1JQ;*Comparative Neuromuscular Laboratory, Basic Science Building 1057, University of California at San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093-0614, USA |
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| Abstract: | Fifteen dogs with confirmed adult onset idiopathic megaoesophagus, in which no generalised muscle weakness was observed, were tested for the presence of acetylcholine receptor antibodies. Of these, six were found to have values greater than 0–6 nmol/litre, previously determined to be diagnostic of acquired myasthenia gravis. The mean serum titre value for these dogs was 5–59 nmol/litre (range 0–78 to 8–72 nmol/litre). It appears that a significant proportion of dogs presenting with megaoesophagus have myasthenia gravis and, if a prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment can be instituted, clinical signs may improve. |
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