Distal Neuropathy

 

Distal neuropathy occurs when the nerve axons degenerate and demyelinate. 

 

While most cases of distal neuropathy have been seen in domestic short hair cats (without a sex predilection). Bengal cats appear to be predisposed (9% of cats affected). In addition, while the average age at presentation of the mixed breed cats was 6 years for cases of axonal degeneration or axonal degeneration and demyelination, and 4 years for cats with demyelination or depletion of intramuscular nerve branches, the average age at presentation in Bengal cats was 1 year.

 

What does distal neuropathy mean for your cat and you?

 

In all cases weakness was the primary presenting clinical complaint. Lower motor neuron signs (decreased muscle tone, strength and reflexes) were present in 89%, upper motor neuron signs (decrease in motor control and increase in strength of reflexes with spasticity) in 1.5% and a normal neurological examination in 12% of cats. Other presenting signs included stridor (wheeze) with suspected laryngeal paralysis, megacolon (with constipation) and chronic non-healing wounds. Of those with long term follow up, 57% improved or had a complete resolution of clinical signs.

 

How is distal neuropathy diagnosed?

 

It is not easy to diagnose. Nerve and muscle biopsies should give you an answer.

Routine laboratory work was unremarkable, 91% had abnormal EMG findings, 37% had slowed motor nerve conduction velocities (MNCV), 15% had decreased compound muscle action potential amplitudes, and 6% revealed histopathologic evidence of axonal degeneration with a normal MNCV.

 

How is distal neuropathy treated?

 

Because almost 60% of cats seem to recover it is worthwhile attempting to treat symptomatically during that process. Careful nursing is required to ensure that cat is fed and toiletted. Constipation can be cleared with various remedies.The average age of cats that recovered or had complete resolution of signs was 3.2 years. Relapse of clinical signs occurred in a few cats. Early age of onset appears to be associated with a higher chance of recovery.