Acquired Myasthenia Gravis in a Juvenile Australian Shepherd Dog and Efficacy of Leflunomide Treatment.

ABSTRACT: Myasthenia gravis is a disorder of neuromuscular transmission characterized by muscle weakness and exercise intolerance that is rarely diagnosed in dogs younger than 6 months. We report a case of juvenile-onset myasthenia gravis in a 5-month-old, intact male Australian Shepherd with onset of clinical signs at 4 months of age. The dog presented with a 4-week history of progressive weakness and regurgitation. Diagnosis was confirmed by an elevated serum acetylcholine receptor antibody concentration. Treatment with pyridostigmine provided only partial improvement. Leflunomide was added to achieve immunosuppression while avoiding the side effects of corticosteroids, such as muscle weakness. This treatment combination was well-tolerated; the dog went into clinical remission, including resolutio

SUBMITTER: Mondino A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12367392 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature