White spots on eyes/shaking

[Rhetts_mama]

I just got off the phone with the vet again. Her glucose levels are holding steady. The rest of the blood work she sent off STAT, so we should have it this afternoon. She did a SNAP thyroid test, which came out borderline low. We'll consider doing a full thyroid panel if all her other blood work comes back normal. Right now, the big thing she wants to rule out is a systemic infection and LS. Her BAT's were normal when they were done a few months ago, and her pre-op blood work was normal. She did send another ALT level to see if there has been any change. I'm not too worried that we will be going down this path as her symptoms don't seem to fit that possibility.



Thank you for the link to the dymelinating/hypomylenation disorders. The stuff I've found seems to suggest it affects primarily the back legs, but with Scarlett I'm seeing it more in the front. It's also encouraging to hear that it is something she may grow out of. In hindsight, if what she was having when she was younger was not hypoglycemic attacks, then it would appear that she has improved on her own since she hasn't had this happen in months. The vet is getting me some more information to read when I pick her up this afternoon.

To top it off, the poor baby has an ear infection. Poor girl can't catch a break.

She wants to do a trial run of steroids to see if there is any improvement in the tremors (after the ear infection is cleared up). I asked her if this was ok to do with the possibility of her having the Corneal Dystrophy (cholesterol deposits on the corneas) because steroids can raise blood cholesterol levels. She's going to hold off on the trial until after we see an ophthalmologist. If the steroid trial doesn't help, it's off to a neurologist (I'm going to ask for a referral to one anyway).

It's definitely not an ulcer and highly unlikely to be an infection. There are two spots that are in the same place in each eye (the lower outside of the cornea). The symmetry of the spots is what is making her think it's the Corneal Dystrophy.

Another long, expensive day in Yorkie land. She's worth it though.

[Rhetts_mama]

Originally Posted by AllDogBoots

I'm so sorry. They are saying it's 2 completely separate unrelated conditions?

That's what she's thinking. We went in for the shaking and she just happened to notice the spots. I hadn't noticed them and there was no mention of them being there when she was spayed 2 months ago.

[ladyjane]

Originally Posted by Rhetts_mama

I just got off the phone with the vet again. Her glucose levels are holding steady. The rest of the blood work she sent off STAT, so we should have it this afternoon. She did a SNAP thyroid test, which came out borderline low. We'll consider doing a full thyroid panel if all her other blood work comes back normal. Right now, the big thing she wants to rule out is a systemic infection and LS. Her BAT's were normal when they were done a few months ago, and her pre-op blood work was normal. She did send another ALT level to see if there has been any change. I'm not too worried that we will be going down this path as her symptoms don't seem to fit that possibility.



Thank you for the link to the dymelinating/hypomylenation disorders. The stuff I've found seems to suggest it affects primarily the back legs, but with Scarlett I'm seeing it more in the front. It's also encouraging to hear that it is something she may grow out of. In hindsight, if what she was having when she was younger was not hypoglycemic attacks, then it would appear that she has improved on her own since she hasn't had this happen in months. The vet is getting me some more information to read when I pick her up this afternoon.

To top it off, the poor baby has an ear infection. Poor girl can't catch a break.

She wants to do a trial run of steroids to see if there is any improvement in the tremors (after the ear infection is cleared up). I asked her if this was ok to do with the possibility of her having the Corneal Dystrophy (cholesterol deposits on the corneas) because steroids can raise blood cholesterol levels. She's going to hold off on the trial until after we see an ophthalmologist. If the steroid trial doesn't help, it's off to a neurologist (I'm going to ask for a referral to one anyway).

It's definitely not an ulcer and highly unlikely to be an infection. There are two spots that are in the same place in each eye (the lower outside of the cornea). The symmetry of the spots is what is making her think it's the Corneal Dystrophy.

Another long, expensive day in Yorkie land. She's worth it though.

I am so sorry, but that made me laugh. Boy, do I know about those days!

Sounds like your vet is doing a very thorough job! I am sure she will get to the bottom of it.

[Tinksmygirl]

I am so sorry Scarlett isn't feeling well. I will keep her in my prayers. I sure hope your vet finds out what is causing the shaking.

[QuickSilver]

Agh, what a day! Please keep us posted on your little girl.

[kjc]

Keeping Scarlett in my thoughts and prayers...

[Rhetts_mama]

Thanks everyone. All of Scarlett's labs came back normal with the exception of her SNAP test (which was just barely low). The vet doesn't think we need to run the comprehensive thyroid panel right now (good thing, that test is $150!).

We have a referral to the Opthamologist. I will call on Monday for an appointment. She thinks the tremors might be something called Corticosteroid responsive Tremor Syndrome (Acquired Tremor Syndrome, Little White Shaker, Shaker Dog Syndrome)

related terms: "little white shakers" syndrome, idiopathic tremor syndrome, acquired tremor in young adult dogs
What is shaker dog syndrome?
This disorder develops suddenly in young adult, primarily small white dogs, causing a diffuse tremor of the entire body. The cause is unknown although there is speculation that there may be a generalized neurotransmitter deficiency due to an autoimmune reaction.
How is shaker dog syndrome inherited?
unknown.
What breeds are affected by shaker dog syndrome?
This syndrome is seen in small breed, mostly white dogs especially the Maltese, and West Highland white terrier. It has also been reported in the bichon frise, poodle, beagle, and Yorkshire terrier.
For many breeds and many disorders, the studies to determine the mode of inheritance or the frequency in the breed have not been carried out, or are inconclusive. We have listed breeds for which there is a consensus among those investigating in this field and among veterinary practitioners, that the condition is significant in this breed.
What does shaker dog syndrome mean to your dog & you?
This disorder usually develops suddenly in young adult dogs (6 months to 3 years of age). The signs become progressively worse over 1 to 3 days and then remain the same until treatment is begun. There is an all-over tremor that can range from mild to so severe that the dog may have difficulty walking. This is called an intention tremor, meaning that it is worse when the animal is excited or trys to perform a specific action (such as eat, walk towards an object, etc). The tremor decreases or disappears when the dog is relaxed or at rest. Commonly there are rapid, random eye movements as well.
The condition is not painful and your dog's personality is unaffected. Treatment is generally effective; some dogs require medication for life to control the tremors.
How is shaker dog syndrome diagnosed?
Your veterinarian will diagnose this condition based on the clinical signs and the fact that tests for other possible causes of these signs show no abnormalities.

For the veterinarian: Intention tremors may be mild to severe, affecting all 4 limbs and the head. There is mild to moderate hypermetria and occasionally a head tilt. Conscious proprioception, spinal and higher reflexes, cranial nerves, personality and voluntary motor functions are unaffected. Para- or tetraparesis may occur.

How is shaker dog syndrome treated?
Most dogs recover completely with early treatment with corticosteroids and/or benzodiazepines. Your veterinarian will start your dog at a relatively high dose which is gradually decreased over several weeks. Clinical signs usually begin to improve within a few days of starting treatment, but If treatment is stopped too early the signs usually return. Some dogs may have to remain on a low dosage on alternate days for life, so as to remain free of signs of the disorder.
Breeding advice
Although little is known about the inheritance, dogs who have developed this disorder should not be bred.
FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THIS DISORDER, PLEASE SEE YOUR VETERINARIAN.
Resources
Parker, A.J. 1995. "Little white shakers" syndrome: generalized, sporadic, acquired, idiopathic tremors in adult dogs. In J.D.Bonaguara and R.W. Kirk (eds) Kirk's Current Veterinary Therapy XII Small Animal Practice. pp. 1126-1127. W.B. Saunders Co., Toronto.

Copyright © 1998 Canine Inherited Disorders Database. All rights reserved.
Revised: October 30, 2001.
This database is a joint initiative of the Sir James Dunn Animal Welfare Centre at the Atlantic Veterinary College, University of Prince Edward Island, and the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association.

shaker dog syndrome


She hasn't had any tremors today. We will try the steroids once her ear infection has cleared up and we've gotten the ok from the opthamologist.

[QuickSilver]

Thanks for keeping us posted. Wishing your girl a full and speedy recovery.

[107barney]

Originally Posted by Rhetts_mama

Thanks everyone. All of Scarlett's labs came back normal with the exception of her SNAP test (which was just barely low). The vet doesn't think we need to run the comprehensive thyroid panel right now (good thing, that test is $150!).

We have a referral to the Opthamologist. I will call on Monday for an appointment. She thinks the tremors might be something called Corticosteroid responsive Tremor Syndrome (Acquired Tremor Syndrome, Little White Shaker, Shaker Dog Syndrome)

related terms: "little white shakers" syndrome, idiopathic tremor syndrome, acquired tremor in young adult dogs
What is shaker dog syndrome?
This disorder develops suddenly in young adult, primarily small white dogs, causing a diffuse tremor of the entire body. The cause is unknown although there is speculation that there may be a generalized neurotransmitter deficiency due to an autoimmune reaction.
How is shaker dog syndrome inherited?
unknown.
What breeds are affected by shaker dog syndrome?
This syndrome is seen in small breed, mostly white dogs especially the Maltese, and West Highland white terrier. It has also been reported in the bichon frise, poodle, beagle, and Yorkshire terrier.
For many breeds and many disorders, the studies to determine the mode of inheritance or the frequency in the breed have not been carried out, or are inconclusive. We have listed breeds for which there is a consensus among those investigating in this field and among veterinary practitioners, that the condition is significant in this breed.
What does shaker dog syndrome mean to your dog & you?
This disorder usually develops suddenly in young adult dogs (6 months to 3 years of age). The signs become progressively worse over 1 to 3 days and then remain the same until treatment is begun. There is an all-over tremor that can range from mild to so severe that the dog may have difficulty walking. This is called an intention tremor, meaning that it is worse when the animal is excited or trys to perform a specific action (such as eat, walk towards an object, etc). The tremor decreases or disappears when the dog is relaxed or at rest. Commonly there are rapid, random eye movements as well.
The condition is not painful and your dog's personality is unaffected. Treatment is generally effective; some dogs require medication for life to control the tremors.
How is shaker dog syndrome diagnosed?
Your veterinarian will diagnose this condition based on the clinical signs and the fact that tests for other possible causes of these signs show no abnormalities.

For the veterinarian: Intention tremors may be mild to severe, affecting all 4 limbs and the head. There is mild to moderate hypermetria and occasionally a head tilt. Conscious proprioception, spinal and higher reflexes, cranial nerves, personality and voluntary motor functions are unaffected. Para- or tetraparesis may occur.

How is shaker dog syndrome treated?
Most dogs recover completely with early treatment with corticosteroids and/or benzodiazepines. Your veterinarian will start your dog at a relatively high dose which is gradually decreased over several weeks. Clinical signs usually begin to improve within a few days of starting treatment, but If treatment is stopped too early the signs usually return. Some dogs may have to remain on a low dosage on alternate days for life, so as to remain free of signs of the disorder.
Breeding advice
Although little is known about the inheritance, dogs who have developed this disorder should not be bred.
FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THIS DISORDER, PLEASE SEE YOUR VETERINARIAN.
Resources
Parker, A.J. 1995. "Little white shakers" syndrome: generalized, sporadic, acquired, idiopathic tremors in adult dogs. In J.D.Bonaguara and R.W. Kirk (eds) Kirk's Current Veterinary Therapy XII Small Animal Practice. pp. 1126-1127. W.B. Saunders Co., Toronto.

Copyright © 1998 Canine Inherited Disorders Database. All rights reserved.
Revised: October 30, 2001.
This database is a joint initiative of the Sir James Dunn Animal Welfare Centre at the Atlantic Veterinary College, University of Prince Edward Island, and the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association.

shaker dog syndrome


She hasn't had any tremors today. We will try the steroids once her ear infection has cleared up and we've gotten the ok from the opthamologist.

I'm keeping Scarlett in my prayers. It is interesting that the tremors come and go in this condition. I hope the steroid treatment is effective and she has a quick recovery.

[AllDogBoots]

Thanks for the update. I can empathize with what you are going through, seeing your dog shaking. It is a scary thing. I'm hoping the treatment helps once it's started. Are these tremors affecting her long term neurologically like seizures do if it goes untreated?

[Rhetts_mama]

Originally Posted by AllDogBoots

Thanks for the update. I can empathize with what you are going through, seeing your dog shaking. It is a scary thing. I'm hoping the treatment helps once it's started. Are these tremors affecting her long term neurologically like seizures do if it goes untreated?

If it is this, then the other research I've read says that there is an 80% success rate with a one time course of steroids with no long term neuro damage. What is going to be hard with her though is the fact that she has gone months without one of these episodes, so it will be hard to know for sure if the trial will be effective.

Because there seems to be an autoimmune component to these tremors, if you don't treat, the damage will become permanent.

[Lizzie07]

Gosh, Donna, I am just reading all this and I hope Scarlett is okay. I know you must be worried.

I've seen an opthamologist in Marietta, Dr. Susan King, for one of my IGs who had a luxating lens in one of her eyes. Dr King is very nice, and I would recommend her. She also has a very busy practice!

With all the seniors I have right now, I feel like I am becoming acquainted with a number of specialists.

[manolos mom]

Just seeing this, will keep you and Scarlett in my Prayers.....

[megansmomma]

Just checked back for an update on Scarlett. I'm glad to hear that your vet is making some progress with a diagnosis. You are such a good momma to both your little ones.

[Charlies Mamma]

ok I have read through and didnt see anyone reply on the pancreatitis so I am going to share. if it doesnt apply here then at least you can all be aware.

My Charlie has pancreatitis. he was diagnosed last year and man was he sick. he lost allot of weight and he did shake all the time and the shaking WAS from pain, if you stood and watched him he would shake and then you could see him draw up his stomach Now before I knew this is what it was I kept trying to feed him, he had no appetite but everytime I put food in front of him it would cause his pancreas to react and cause him moore pain, (I did not know this until later on) He was very dehydrated as well He had to go to the vets every other day for injected fluids under the skin. Charlie also had a period of no BMs that then changed to diarrhea. He would not walk we had to pick him up and carry him everywhere he was that sick

Charlie went through this for weeks while being tested for things that he did not have I got tired of my vet not helping and saying "well I just dont know" and changed vets. Now at the new vet he was admitted with IV fluids and a course of antibioptics they did a SNAP test for pancratitis and it was positive. They said they had never seen one chage to positive so fast, they then did the complete panel to be sent off to confirm and it was positive as well.

Now Charlies is fine now but it was a long road to feeling better and he is on a very strict diet no fat allowed at all he only eats boiled chicken or a low allergen diet food made of venison I never want to go through that again it was so scarey.

Like the other posts I dont know about the eyes but I wanted to share about the pancreatitis. you will be in my prayers.