SEARCH FOR CAUSE IN ‘SERONEGATIVE’ MYASTHENIA GRAVIS AND ACQUIRED IDIOPATHIC MEGAESOPHAGUS IN DOGS
Research project under the direction of An Vanhaesebrouck (Cambridge University) - in collaboration with Oxford University, and several referral centres
We would like to ask Veterinary Professionals to contact us if they see a dog that is highly suspected for myasthenia gravis or acquired idiopathic megaesophagus, but negative on AChR antibody RIA. myasthenia@vet.cam.ac.uk
Help Us Improve Diagnosis of Myasthenia Gravis and Megaoesophagus in Dogs
More about the study:
We are studying dogs with suspected myasthenia gravis or acquired idiopathic megaoesophagus that tested negative for AChR antibodies on the standard radioimmunoassay (RIA). While RIA remains the gold standard for diagnosing myasthenia gravis, some dogs may have antibodies that are challenging to detect. Our research aims to investigate these cases to enhance future diagnostic options and ultimately improve treatment.
Why Participate?
Your contribution could help future dogs receive more accurate diagnosis and treatment, improving outcomes for myasthenia gravis and acquired idiopathic megaoesophagus.
Who Can Help?
- Veterinary surgeons in the UK: If you see a dog strongly suspected of these conditions, please contact us.
- Owners in the UK: If your dog was recently (within the last two months) diagnosed with myasthenia gravis or acquired idiopathic megaoesophagus, and the standard RIA test came back negative, ask your veterinary surgeon to get in touch.
What Is Involved?
- We use leftover serum from blood samples collected for diagnostic purposes.
- Results mainly support research and may not be immediately available. However, important findings will be shared with your veterinarian, and, by taking part, you are helping improve diagnosis for dogs in the future. Any questions, please contact: myasthenia@vet.cam.ac.uk or 01223 337621 (option 2) and ask for An Vanhaesebrouck.
For more information, see: Cambridge myasthenia study
For questions or to discuss a non-urgent referral, please contact: myasthenia@vet.cam.ac.uk
For urgent referrals, please visit Small Animal Hospital Referrals
