Paroxysmal non‐kinesigenic dyskinesia characterised by dystonia in a crossbred dog

Abstract

A nine-year-old female neutered crossbred dog was presented with episodic seizures since the age of six months, which were unsatisfactorily controlled with phenobarbital administration. Upon further consultation and examination there was considerable doubt as to whether or not the seizures were epileptic in nature. One major argument against epileptic seizure activity was that the dog was (seemingly) fully conscious during these ‘attacks’. A video of an episode was made some time after forming a presumptive diagnosis of a paroxysmal movement disorder, showing dystonia and no signs of impaired consciousness. After initiation of a gluten-free diet, the dog had recurrent episodes of dystonia following consumption of pieces of bread. No events were noticed aside from those instances. A movement disorder, specifically a paroxysmal non-kinesigenic dyskinesia characterised by dystonia, was presumptively diagnosed. This is the first report of a crossbred dog with this type of movement disorder.

Dystonia in veterinary neurology

“…19,32,33 Although most reports focus on particular breeds exhibiting PxD, cases of PxD in mixed breed dogs are anecdotally recognized and reported. 11…”

“…Examples of PxD characterized by dystonia are EFS in Cavalier King Charles Spaniels (genetic cause identified), PxD reported in Soft‐Coated Wheaten Terriers (genetic cause identified) and the PxD named “Scottie Cramp” (genetic cause suspected) 19,32,33 . Although most reports focus on particular breeds exhibiting PxD, cases of PxD in mixed breed dogs are anecdotally recognized and reported 11 …”

“…For example, when dystonia is the main feature of a PxD, the disorder may be referred to as "paroxysmal dyskinesia characterized by dystonia." 7,11 3 | CLASSIFICATION Although dystonia may be classified in many different ways, we suggest implementing 2 classification systems. The first is a practical classification based on temporal pattern and localization characteristics (Figure 1).…”

“…The context in which this clinical sign is mentioned will dictate whether dystonia is the main feature of the disorder or if it is 1 of many features. For example, when dystonia is the main feature of a PxD, the disorder may be referred to as “paroxysmal dyskinesia characterized by dystonia.” 7,11 …”