Extraocular Myositis (EOM)
Description of the Disease and Clinical Picture
Extraocular, periocular myositis, and masticatory muscle myositis is an inflammation of muscles that can affect just one group of muscles or more. The disease is most often of autoimmune nature. The causes of extraocular myositis can also be protozoa, Neospora caninum or Toxoplasma gondii. It is most commonly diagnosed in German Shepherds, Labradors, Golden Retrievers, Shih Tzus, Lhasa Apsos, and other dog breeds. The changes can be bilateral or unilateral and are sometimes accompanied by a change in general condition, apathy, anorexia, and elevated body temperature. In dogs, an acute and painful swelling of the affected muscles can be observed, along with exophthalmos and often protrusion of the third eyelid. Periocular swelling can be very pronounced and sometimes resemble an abscess. Pain or restriction during jaw opening is very often observed. If aggressive therapy is not undertaken, fibrosis and muscle atrophy can develop, along with compressive damage to the optic nerve leading to vision loss.
 
Therapy
Based on clinical and ultrasound examinations, a diagnosis can be made. Immunosuppressive drugs are used in the treatment.
 
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