Polymyositis and DNA collection in the Hungarian vizsla dog

WE are writing to raise awareness of a breed-specific polymyositis that has been recognised recently in the Hungarian vizsla dog (Haley and others 2011) and to make a request for DNA samples from affected dogs.

Affected individuals are most commonly presented with difficulty eating and drinking with hypersalivation. The condition is characterised clinically by dysphagia and masticatory muscle atrophy. Generalised muscle atrophy may also be seen. Other common clinical signs include regurgitation, exercise intolerance and pain or difficulty in opening the jaw …