Neuromuscular manifestation of gluten sensitivity in a Border Terrier

Introduction Gluten-related disorders (GRD) comprise a spectrum of diverse entities including coeliac disease, wheat allergy and non-coeliac-gluten sensitivity. Patients typically display serum anti-gliadin IgG and/or IgA (AGA) and anti-transglutaminase-2 IgA (TG2). In addition to intestinal symptoms, human patients present with various neurological complications.

Material and methods Muscle and nerve biopsies of an 11-year old, male Border Terrier presenting with lower motor neuron symptoms were submitted for histological examination. Serum titres of AGA and TG2 antibodies were measured.

Findings and epicrisis Examination of the biopsies showed an oligofocal lymphoplasmacytic myositis and a diffuse neuropathy of nodo-paranodal type. Suspecting a neuromuscular form of the breed-related gluten hypersensitivity, measurements of AGA and TG2 antibodies were performed. Both titres ranged above control values. Hence, a gluten-related neuromyopathy was diagnosed. The patient was set on a gluten-free diet with complete resolution of the clinical signs.

Conclusion GRD should be considered as a differential diagnosis in dogs with intestinal and neuromuscular signs.

Publication History

Article published online:
08 July 2020