Motor neuron abiotrophy in a Saluki

A nine-week-old saluki puppy was presented to Tufts University School of Ve terinary Medicine for progressive, generalized weakness and bilateral forel imb deformities. Examination suggested a diffuse neuromuscular lesion. Cere brospinal fluid (CSF) analysis showed normal nucleated cell count and prote in level; however, many macrophages had vacuolated cytoplasm. Electromyogra phy (EMG) recordings suggested denervation in paraspinal and appendicular m uscles, Tibial motor nerve conduction velocity was normal, but direct evoke d muscle potential had reduced amplitude, Histopathology revealed diffuse, symmetrical, degenerative motor neuronopathy of the ventral horn of the spi nal cord with associated lesions in nerves and muscles. Histopathology was consistent with an abiotrophy that was likely inherited.