Paroxysmal Dyskinesia, PxD
Paroxysmal Dyskinesia is a neurologic condition that causes dogs to have episodes where their movement is very abnormal, especially in their hind legs. This disease is easily confused with a seizure disorder. It is suspected to be a malfunction in the basal nuclei, which control movement in the brain.
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Signs and symptoms
Affected dogs may have dystonia (uncontrollable muscle contractions) and muscle spasms multiple times a day. However, the affected dog will appear clinically normal between episodes.
Signs typically first appear in young adults. -
Diagnosis
Genetic testing, blood work, neurological tests, and clinical signs can be used to diagnose this condition.
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Treatment
There is no treatment for this condition, however, anti-seizure medications are sometimes prescribed. These may or may not improve clinical signs.
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What to do if your dog is at risk
Actions
- Excitement appears to be a trigger, so keeping your dog on a predictable routine may be of some benefit.
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Genetic Information
This mutation was first described in Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers.
This disease is inherited in an autosomal recessive manner, meaning that affected dogs must have two copies of the mutation to show clinical signs.
Gene names:
PIGN ‐ chr
Inheritance type:
recessive
Citations:
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Breeds affected
This health condition affects the following breeds
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