Leukoencephalomalacia and Cerebral White Matter Vacuolar Degeneration in Two Related Labrador Retriever Puppies

摘要

Spongy degeneration of the CNS occurs in children and has also been reported in cats and dogs. Spongiform encephalopathy was previously reported in 2 Labrador Retrievers with extensor rigidity, tremor, ataxia, and opisthotonus commencing at 4 to 6 months, A form of spongiform encephalopathy distinct from that previously reported is described in 3 related Labrador Retrievers. A male Labrador Retriever, 5 months, showed mild hindlimb ataxia, thoracic limb hypermetria, and bilateral blindness. The pup had appeared normal until 4.5 months of age. Central nervous system examination further revealed absence of menace responses bilaterally with normal pupillary light reflexes and slightly depressed postural reactions in the thoracic and pelvic limbs.