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How is Degenerative Myelopathy Diagnosed or Tested in My Dog?

How is Degenerative Myelopathy Diagnosed or Tested in My Dog?

There's no test to confirm a Degenerative Myelopathy diagnosis, but there is a genetic test that can rule it out.

People suspect their dog has Degenerative Myelopathy (DM) because of symptoms such as knuckling, scuffed nails, the ‘drunken sailor’ walk (ataxia), where the dog becomes increasingly unsteady on their back legs, or difficulty standing up.

If you notice any of these DM symptoms, you should book an appointment with your vet immediately so a diagnosis of DM can be pursued.

Your vet will likely recommend a full neurological examination, blood tests, X-rays, MRIs and CSFs tests, plus the gene test that can rule out DM. As part of diagnosis, other conditions and spinal issues also need to be eliminated (Lyme’s disease, IVDD, hip dysplasia, arthritis etc).

Your vet might refer your dog to a neurological department or specialist. 

There isn’t a definitive test for DM. It can be ruled out, that’s all. A positive confirmation of DM is only possible post-mortem.

However, testing for copies of mutations of Gene SOD1 can help build a fuller picture of whether DM is the likely condition causing a dog’s symptoms.

Testing is done, with help from your vet, via a blood sample or saliva test kit that can be sent off.

NO SOD1 gene mutations - normal / clear - it is extremely unlikely that DM will develop

1 copy of SOD1 gene mutation - not likely that DM will develop

2 copies of SOD1 gene mutation - at risk / affected - DM could possibly develop

If there are 2 copies of SOD1 gene mutation present, then it is more likely that your dog is suffering from DM, rather than other medical conditions or spinal injury with similar symptoms (e.g. arthritis, hip dysplasia etc).

There are other genes - at this stage unknown - likely at play in the development of DM and research into the condition is ongoing.  And it is possible for a dog with 2 copies of the SOD1 gene mutation not ever to develop DM.

In terms of what DM diagnostics are currently available, getting a test result back with negative results for the gene mutation eliminates DM.

If your dog has two copies of the gene mutation then at least you’ll know that DM is a very strong possibility as a reason for your dog’s symptoms, and you can start addressing the symptoms accordingly.

Read more about Degenerative Myelopathy

Read more about Degenerative Myelopathy - Causes, Prevention and How To Help https://zoomadog.co.uk/collections/degenerative-myelopathy

Read more about dog wheelchairs here

Read how a dog wheelchair can help your dog live an active life with Degenerative Myelopathy https://zoomadog.co.uk/collections/dog-wheelchairs

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