Disorder - Progressive Axonopathy

Organ Systems Involved
Nervous/sensory

Alternative Names
Boxer Central-Peripheral Neuropathy
Boxer Neuropathy

Brief Description

Swelling and loss of the outer layer of nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, and in the nerves supplying the body, causing weakness and loss of balance.

Presenting Signs

Dogs with progressive axonopathy may have no reflexes in the hind limbs at one month of age. The condition progresses so that a loss of balance and loss of coordination in the hind limbs appears at two to six months of age. The dog may lose sensation in the feet, may take very extended steps and have decreased strength in the legs. The condition progresses to the front legs and the dogs develop head bobbing and flickering of the eyes. Dogs with this condition can adapt, however, and retain a good quality of life for a long period of time.

Dogs at Risk

Young pups between the ages of one and six months.

PubMed References
Progressive Axonopathy

Further Reference Material [OMIA Number]
825


Contributor
Alexis Murray