Thoracolumbar Myelopathy

Body function:

Reproductive & Urinary

In collaboration with

Thoracolumbar myelopathy is a genetic condition affecting Pug dogs. It causes the spinal cord to compress in the thoracolumbar region, the area between the thoracic cage in the throat and the lumbar spine. The condition is more common in males than females.

In collaboration with

List of affected breeds:

Genetic research has linked this gene and condition in the following breeds:

Pug

A black dog with a tan chest and a red and black collar is sitting in the grass. The dog's head is turned to the side, and it is looking up. There are trees in the background.

What does this mean for a dog with this trait?

Thoracolumbar myelopathy may be treated with painkillers and muscle relaxants. If dogs are unable to urinate due to the condition, catheterization may be required. Surgery can also remove any compressed material in the spinal cord.

Symptoms

Symptoms of thoracolumbar myelopathy include pelvic limb ataxia, which may lead to incontinence. The condition may also cause abnormal vertebral column formation, excess scar tissue in the spinal cord, and inflammation of the central nervous system.

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