Polimiosite idiopática em cão

Idiopathic polymyositis is defined as the simultaneous inflammation of a group of skeletal muscles, and its cause is probably autoimmune. Common clinical signs include mild to severe muscle weakness that may increase during physical exercise, gait changes, generalized muscular atrophy and occasional dysphagia. The treatment consists of immunosuppressive doses of corticosteroids, immunosuppressive drugs such as cyclosporine, and association with support therapy. This case report is about a clinical case of a 3-year-old dog, castrated, male, Bull Terrier whose clinical signs were tetraparesis, muscle stiffness, exercise intolerance, intermittent dysphagia and dysphonia, generalized muscular atrophy (including masticatory muscles) and alterations upon neurological examination. The diagnosis was based on the patient's history, physical and neurological examination findings, and complementary laboratory exam and electrophysiological test results. Corticosteroids and supportive therapy were used as treatment, with satisfactory results.