Myositis (Inflammation of Muscles) in Dogs

Overview of Canine Myositis

Myositis is a condition in which skeletal muscles are damaged by a noninfectious inflammatory process dominated by lymphocytic infiltration that may occur in dogs. Signs of myositis are generally sudden in onset.

General Causes of Myositis in Dogs

What to Watch For

Signs of myositis in dogs may include:

Diagnosis of Myositis in Dogs

Diagnostic tests may include:

Treatment of Myositis in Dogs

Most dogs are treated on an outpatient basis. Supportive care may be required to prevent wounds and decubital ulcers (bed sores) in severely affected dogs that cannot walk. In the cases where an underlying infectious disorder has been identified, specific therapy should be instituted. Additional treatment may include:

Home Care

Administer all medication and diet as directed by your veterinarian. If any change is noted in your dog’s condition, notify your veterinarian. In particular, if coughing or difficulty breathing is observed, contact your veterinarian at once, as this may signal aspiration pneumonia secondary to a malfunctioning esophagus.

Life long therapy may be necessary in these patients.