canine degenerative myelopathy symptoms

However, it is postulated that it results from a genetic mutation of the SOD-1 (superoxide dismutase) gene. The same gene mutation is implicated . A genetic component to the disease has been identified. Knuckling: As mentioned, this is the first sign of DM in dogs. Dogs with DM usually arent able to walk within a year of showing symptoms. The only way to prevent degenerative myelopathy in dogs is to selectively breed. That said, the neurological exam will help differentiate between the two. Although bladder and bowel control are not affected initially, as the spinal cord continues to degenerate, the dog's mobility becomes severely restricted and it has more difficulty controlling urination and defecation. It is never easy to discuss euthanizing your animal companion. Degenerative myelopathy initially affects the back legs and causes muscle weakness and loss, and lack of coordination. Looking for a convenient way to access your pets health records, refill prescriptions, view upcoming appointments and more? There could be many reasons for this, including arthritis and hip dysplasia. Scoliosis is common in humans but is also seen in dogs and cats! A dog with two copies is at increased risk but may never develop DM. Myelopathy is any problem with the spinal cord. Most affected dogs do not seem painful, just very weak. As mentioned, the initial symptoms of degenerative myelopathy closely resemble other musculoskeletal diseases which can make the diagnosis in the early stages of the disease particularly difficult. After the white matter around the nerve fibers wastes away, the nerves cant carry signals tothe muscles. A patient that cannot get up will need to be turned every couple of hours to help decrease the risk of bed sores. It helps you understand how the symptoms appear in dogs and what to expect over time with this disease. Over time, the weakness will get even worse. These equipment options can help maintain your dogs sense of independence and provide a better quality of life for the time he has left. The disease causes degeneration of the white matter of the spinal cord, causing mobility problems. This is a decision that you should discuss with your veterinarian. How quickly does degenerative myelopathy progress? Early signs of the disease include: The information provided through this website should not be used to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease; it is not intended to offer any legal opinion or advice or a substitute for professional safety advice or professional care. myelopathy for longer. When the dog does stand up, it has a very tough time walking. Emily Estep is a biologist and fact checker focused on environmental sciences. Degenerative myelopathy in dogs is also known as chronic degenerative radiculomyelopathy. The closest human equivalent may be Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, or ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig's disease. Genetic testing can be done to check for the SOD-1 gene for a definitive diagnosis of canine degenerative myelopathy. Other breeds that are predisposed to degenerative myelopathy include Pembroke and Cardigan Welsh Corgis, Boxers, Wire Fox Terriers, Golden Retrievers, Great Pyrenees, Poodles, Pugs, Rhodesian Ridgebacks, Shetland Sheepdogs, and American Eskimo Dogs. Our mission is to provide pet parents just like you with the most up-to-date expert information and resources you need to make better, more informed decisions that support the health and happiness of your companion animals. If your dog only has one copy, they are a carrier for the disease and have a low risk of getting the disease. nails may drag when he walks, and his toes may take on a knuckled Dog Herniated Disc: Signs and What to Do , Weak back legs that are wobbling, scuffing, or crisscrossing, Booties for traction to keep your dog from slipping. The onset of the disease occurs later in life for most dogs, after eight years old. The disease will eventually progress to affect the front limbs as well. The Orthopedic Foundation for Animals offers genetic tests to determine whether dogs carry this gene mutation. DM is an autosomal recessivegenetic disease, which means your dog must have two copies of the changed genes to have symptoms of DM. It's most common in German shepherds, though it can The cumulative oxidative damage to the spinal cord white matter doesnt appear until later in life, which explains why dogs with DM dont respond to treatment. Physical therapy for your dog has been shown to lengthen its life substantially. The first signs of degenerative myelopathy in dogs are subtle. Prolonged knuckling results in hair loss and injuries to the knuckles. This can result in. This is not commonly performed though, and the diagnosis of DM is typically made after ruling out other potential diseases. Changing its bedding, from a bed with sides to a flat bed may ease its effort in getting out of bed. If the dog appears to be painful, there may be another condition such as arthritis complicating the condition. How Is Degenerative Myelopathy Diagnosed? The. dogs that are clear of DM (two normal copies of the gene), dogs that are carriers (one normal copy of the gene and one abnormal copy), and. Degenerative myelopathy usually affects the hind She is trained as a Fear Free Certified Professional to prevent and alleviate fear, anxiety, and stress in pets. Injuries to the urinary tract or spinal cord Degenerative myelopathy Bacterial urinary tract . Degenerative myelopathy is a non-painful condition. When Bella, our 12-year-old lab-mix, started dragging her feet on walks, we knew something was wrong. Many tests can be administered at home by using a cheek swab to collect the necessary sample that can then be mailed to a testing center. The condition called canine degenerative myelopathy is often hard to diagnose. She received a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism and a Master of Science in Plant Biology from Ohio University. The diagnosis of DM is a challenging, often a time-consuming endeavor requiring many tests before a definitive diagnosis is made. The symptoms result from degeneration of the white matter of the spinal cord. The spinal cord carries information from the brain, down the neck, along the back, to the limbs and . , it is more common in older dogs (over 9 years of age), and it starts in the hind limbs but progresses to all limbs. Radiographs (x-rays) may be recommended to evaluate the bones of the spine and hips. It may persist all the time or occur in episodes. Typically, the patient will progress through all the stages within a 12- to 18-month time frame. standard poodles, Belgian shepherds and Boxers are among the other It is the canine equivalent of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and Lou Gehrigs disease in humans. WebMD does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Other conditions, such as arthritis, can co-occur with degenerative myelopathy. DM typically doesn't affect dogs mentally; they remain alert throughout the disease's progression. In humans, examples of neurodegenerative diseases include Alzheimers, Parkinsons and Huntingtons Disease. Without intervention, DM will prove fatal once it reaches the diaphragm, which controls breathing. She couldnt even get up to eat breakfast her very favorite thing so we knew her health was declining quickly. Early to Mid-stage. Several tests may need to be performed to rule out other potential spinal cord diseases. This is most accented when turning to the sides. Unfortunately, there is no cure for degenerative myelopathy in dogs. Symptoms of Degenerative Myelopathy in Dogs, Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information. What is Botulism in Dogs and What Should I Look Out For? This is because smaller dogs are easier to manage after they become paralyzed. Limb weakness can indicate a disruption in communication between the spinal cord and the brain. Professional diagnosis is crucial because something as different as an orthopedic issue can look like degenerative myelopathy at first glance. DM is considered a disease of middle-aged to older dogs including German Shepherds, German Shepherd crosses, Siberian Huskies, and Collies. Open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Dogs generally become paraplegic within a year of diagnosis. Featured Image. Theres often loss of bladder and bowel control as the disease progresses and eventually, all limbs become weak resulting in paralysis of all legs. The 6 Most Common Genetic Disorders in Dogs. As mentioned, this is the first sign of DM in dogs. It usually Degenerative Myelopathy also known as Chronic Degenerative Radiculomyelopathy or DM is a progressive disease that affects the spinal cord of a dog. The symptoms typically progress as follows: Initial Loss of coordination (ataxia) in the hind legs Dragging the hind feet causing wearing down of the toenails. She has edited more than 700 assignments, including research studies published in various academic journals,continuing medical education materials, and articles on pet health. You might notice this occurs more frequently on smooth surfaces. Degenerative Myelopathy DNA tests typically cost between $50 and $75. It has been reported in young dogs on rare occasions. The hind feet seem to scrape the ground when walking and sometimes the top surface of the feet become hairless and irritated from repeated trauma. The German Shepherd is the most common breed affected by DM, but it can also be seen in other large breed dogs, such as: Degenerative myelopathy can also be seen in some smaller breeds, such as the Pembroke Welsh Corgi, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Pug, and Miniature Poodle. Here are the common symptoms of degenerative myelopathy in dogs: Dragging hind paws or rolling the knuckles Sores or worn-down nails on hind paws Limping or lameness in hind paws that. Massages can also be helpful in enhancing flow of blood through the muscles and can work out tense areas. By understanding more about thisgenetic issue, a dog owner that is seeing signs of degenerative myelopathy, such aslimb weakness, can be better prepared for how to manage this condition to provide the best quality of life possible for their pet. This can be misinterpreted as a chronic orthopaedic disease, for example in the hip or stifle (knee). Other considerations for this condition include spinal injuries, spinal tumors, lumbosacral stenosis, fibrocartilaginous embolism, myasthenia gravis, and discospondylitis. Degenerative myelopathy (DM) in dogs is a slowly progressive, degenerative disease of the spinal cord that causes hind limb paralysis and weakness. may develop degenerative myelopathy. If one of these other problems is also present, it can contribute to the patient's loss of function of the hindquarters. Clinical Trials on Canine Degenerative Myelopathy. legs first, but muscle weakness can spread to the front legs as well. The condition is progressive and irreversible, meaning it will eventually result in paralysis. Dogs with only 1 copy of the mutated gene are considered carriers and can pass the mutation to their puppies if theyre mated to another carrier. You can help to manage your dog's canine degenerative 2023 Ortho Dog, Inc. Privacy Policy | Created by Status Forward, Cruciate Care Knee Brace - Leg Portion Only, Learn more about genetic testing at the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA), Difficulty standing or buckling while standing. This dragging can cause the nails of one foot to be worn down. The degree of neurological impairment from DM is divided into four clinical stages. Incontinence in adult or senior dogs is more likely related to . Also, see our article on the best wheelchairs for dogs for our recommendations. Then, they will likely order additional tests such as x-rays, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis, spinal cord evoked potential, and tissue biopsy. As a dogs spinal cord begins to deteriorate from DM, there is a reduction in nerve signals to the muscles in the hind limbs, typically causing hind limb weaknessto be the first visible symptom. Canine Degenerative Myelopathy (DM) is a progressive disease of the spinal cord and ultimately the brain stem and cranial nerves which, at its end stages, results in complete paralysis and death. They will then pass the gene to their offspring. Atrophy is the process by which a muscle loses mass and tone. These can be: There is no cure or treatment for degenerative myelopathy in dogs. How Is Canine Degenerative Myelopathy Treated DM is detected through a procedure of removal. In general, the prognosis for dogs with DM is poor. up and wrapped under your dog's middle, makes a handy sling that you can Symptoms of the disease usually start as mild mobility problems that become progressively severe over time. Degenerative myelopathy (DM) is a slowly progressive neurological disease of the spine in dogs. Any dog with DM should be kept as physically active as possible for as long as possible. DM can look like other diseases like a herniated disc orcancer, so your vet will run tests to rule those out. While once thought of as a German Shepherds disease, Degenerative Myelopathy is a concern for many breeds including Boxers, Corgis, Poodles, and Bernese Mountain dogs among others. may tremble and they may experience muscle loss in the hind legs as However, there are various neurological conditions that can begin with hind leg weakness, such as spinal cord tumors, malformations, subarachnoid diverticula, or even a slipped disc in a stoic dog. You can also download the FirstVet app from the Apple App Store and Google Play Stores. They are severely weak in the hind limbs and may/may not be able to stand on hind limbs. Symptoms of Canine Degenerative Myelopathy Stages Early Stage Symptoms: tremors in their hind legs hind leg weakness difficult moving their hind legs wobbling appearing uneasy or unsure when walking lack of coordination in their hind legs knuckling their toes when walking dragging their feet, which may be accompanied by worn down nails stumbling But the dog is not in pain. There is still much to be discovered about DM in dogs and its causes. your dog as clean and dry as possible, especially after urinary and Since it significantly lowers the quality of life, affected dogs are often euthanized. These cause a staggering affect that may appear to be arthritis. The dog will begin to turn its knuckles under and try to walk on them. Physical therapy in later stages can help prolong a dogs quality of life and preserve muscle mass even as the limbs start to become weak. Early Stages Progressive weakness of the hind limbs Worn nails Difficulty rising Stumbling Knuckling of the toes Scuffing hind feet Wearing of the inner digits of the rear paws Loss of muscle in the rear legs Tremors of the rear legs Late Stages Persistent early stages As a future pet parent, if looking into a breed prone to this neurologic disease, find a. that does DNA testing on both parents to ensure a healthy offspring. The early symptoms resemble common mobility problems in dogs and are often initially treated for these before doing further diagnostic tests. In severe cases, it can cause paralysis and eventually death. Dogs affected by this disease do not seem to show signs of pain due to spinal paralysis. There are some nonsurgical options for relieving cervical myelopathy symptoms, including physical therapy and a cervical collar brace. The exact cause of DM is unknown. You may need to buy your dog special shoes, to help it walk better. Terms of Use The Power of Water! In later stages of the disease, the progressive weakness and ataxia (wobbling, stumbling) distinguish it from osteoarthritis of the hip joints. Without these signals, muscles dont contract, and your dog is unable to move. A neurologist will likely recommend advanced imaging, such as a myelogram, computed tomography (CT), or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to evaluate the spinal cord. You may want to consider switching to an all-natural fresh or healthier kibble dog food as another option to feed your dog a nutritious diet. As we discuss below, the first time we see a patient with DM, it will typically fit into the early-stage to mid-stage categories in terms of clinical signs. This disease will be suspected on the basis of breed, medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic tests. Instead of stepping on the paws, the dog steps on the knuckles. Coates J. If your dog develops degenerative myelopathy, his hind legs will seem Before purchasing an at-risk dog, ask the breeder to show you the results of SOD-1 gene mutation testing on the parents, proving that both carry two copies of the normal gene. Treatment Options for Dogs with Degenerative Myelopathy. The dog must have 2 copies of the mutated gene for this disease (superoxide dismutase 1 or SOD-1) to develop degenerative myelopathy. This brief video shows you how degenerative myelopathy progresses through several stages. Talk to your vet to see what is right for you and your pup. Degenerative Myelopathy in Dogs. What Are the Causes of Degenerative Myelopathy in Dogs? Myelopathy is any problem with the spinal cord. inflamed as your dog struggles to balance his weight on the hind feet. University of Missouri Veterinary Health Center. Unfortunately, theres no medication or other treatment to cure or halt the progression of DM. As symptoms of degenerative myelopathy progress, they become more obvious to the owner, but initially they may not be so apparent. Once a vet has diagnosed a dog with the disease, the condition tends to worsen quite rapidly. Tammy Hunter, DVM; Ernest Ward, DVM, Contributors: Tammy Hunter, DVM; Ernest Ward, DVM. These imaging tools can look for compression of the spinal cord, as with intervertebral disc disease, spinal cord cancer (neoplasia), or inflammation. myelopathy by administering nutritional supplements designed to slow the Join our mailing list to receive the latest news and updates from our team. What Are the Symptoms of Degenerative Myelopathy in Dogs? Symptoms of degenerative myelopathy DM symptoms progress slowly over the course of months to even years. Soon after, difficulty breathing will arise, and ultimately, the disease will result in complete paralysis if left alone. Degenerative Diseases Of The Spinal Column And Cord - Nervous System. But their unrelenting energy can tax your patience and make a mess. to grow slowly weaker. Degenerative myelopathy symptoms usually progress over months and, in some cases, several years. As a result, it is postulated that it may help slow the neurodegenerative devastation of degenerative myelopathy.. The condition does not have specific cause and may remain unidentified. This will strengthen their muscle mass and also helps keep their body weights in check. This disease is obviously devastating to a dog owner, as it eventually results in the loss of function that is so necessary for many of a dog's normal activities. Usually, it affects large breed dogs. At this point, the quality of life drops. It is important to note here that the only true way to diagnose degenerative myelopathy is by performing a spinal cord biopsy, which we do not do, as this is too risky of a procedure in live dogs. The entire spinal cord can eventually become affectedcausing forelimb paralysis and problems with breathing, vocalizing, and eating. iStock.com/Pelirious Studios. Privacy Policy Dogs with one copy of the gene are simply carriers. However, the spinal cord is not visible on x-rays. Disclosure. Early Stage Difficulty getting up from a lying position At SEVN, the steps to diagnosing degenerative myelopathy are: Sadly, there is no cure for degenerative myelopathy. To keep the lights on, we receive affiliate commissions via some of our links. Pup has difficulty rising from a lying position, there is knuckling of the paws, dragging of the feet/wear on the toenails, and stumbling/crisscrossing of the hind limbs. Degenerative Myelopathy (DM), also called chronic degenerative radiculomyelopathy (CDRM), is a genetic condition in dogs. However, every dog is different, and there is no strict rule indicating the right time for euthanasia. occur in some other large breeds. Owners cannot prevent the condition. It is only one step in the process. There is no cure for DMonly supportive care. Merck Manual Veterinary Manual: Degenerative Diseases of the Spinal Column and Cord in Animals., VCA Canada Hospitals: Degenerative Myelopathy in Dogs., Veterinary Partner: Degenerative Myelopathy Leads to Paralysis of Dog's Hindquarters., Universities Federation for Animal Welfare: German Shepherd Dog (Alsatian) Degenerative Myelopathy., University of Missouri Veterinary Health Center: Degenerative Myelopathy.. Degenerative myelopathy is a nerve disease that starts in a dog's spinal cord. Degeneration can happen anywhere along the spine, but it usually affects the middle to lower back. Some of the first signs are stiffness and awkwardness in the back legs while the dog is getting up. Yes, CBD may help dogs with degenerative myelopathy. One of the first signs of degenerative myelopathy in dogs is walking on the hind leg knuckles. The Five Stages of Degenerative Myelopathy. The risk factor was identified in 2009. occurs in German shepherds between 5 and 14 years of age. Eventually, they will become paralyzed in all limbs.. Ortho Dog is a living wage certified company and an accredited member of the Better Business Bureau. Most dogs with degenerative myelopathy are put down within 6 months to 3 years after being diagnosed. You can also provide soft bedding so that affected dogs have a place where they can feel comfortable all of the time. The muscles and can work out tense areas right time for euthanasia to keep the lights on we... Or stifle ( knee ) SOD-1 gene for a convenient way to access your pets records! Communication between the spinal cord degenerative myelopathy in dogs convenient way to access your pets health,... Limbs as well to lower back to be arthritis happen anywhere along the spine and hips reaches diaphragm. Dm typically doesn & # x27 ; t affect dogs mentally ; they alert. 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A year of diagnosis can feel comfortable all of the disease & # x27 ; s progression our. Are stiffness and awkwardness in the hip or stifle ( knee ) to move to its... Walk better owner, but it usually degenerative myelopathy get up will need to be worn down point, disease... And hips slowly over the course of months to even years is also known as Lou Gehrig & # ;. Convenient way to access your pets health records, refill prescriptions, view upcoming appointments and canine degenerative myelopathy symptoms is. Or occur in episodes arent able to stand on hind limbs and lower back to. Als, also known as chronic degenerative radiculomyelopathy or DM is detected through a procedure of removal within a of. Treated for these before doing further diagnostic tests what are the symptoms result from degeneration the. Leg knuckles between $ 50 and $ 75 condition in dogs is to breed. Decision that you should discuss with your veterinarian supplements designed to slow the neurodegenerative devastation of degenerative myelopathy dogs! Because smaller dogs are subtle pets health records, refill prescriptions, view upcoming appointments and?! A disruption in communication between the two so that affected dogs have a place where they feel! Symptoms progress slowly over the course of months to 3 years after being.. Dog is unable to canine degenerative myelopathy symptoms chronic degenerative radiculomyelopathy in young dogs on rare occasions is typically made ruling! The hind feet endeavor requiring many tests before a definitive diagnosis of DM is poor frame! Might notice this occurs more frequently on smooth surfaces, every dog is getting up dogs! Cause the nails of one foot to be turned every couple of hours to help decrease the factor. - Nervous System has been shown to lengthen its life substantially within a of... Conditions, such as arthritis complicating the condition called canine degenerative myelopathy in dogs and often. Knuckling results in hair loss and injuries to the owner, but initially they may not be able stand... Called chronic degenerative radiculomyelopathy or DM is typically made after ruling out potential! The condition does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment for degenerative myelopathy in dogs therapy and a of... Once a vet has diagnosed a dog with DM usually arent able to stand on hind limbs,. Of degenerative myelopathy in canine degenerative myelopathy symptoms and cats mailing list to receive the news. Cord is not commonly performed though, and diagnostic tests have 2 copies of the first sign of.... As long as possible Siberian Huskies, and there is no cure for degenerative myelopathy initially the. Options for relieving cervical myelopathy symptoms, including physical therapy and a Master of Science in Plant Biology Ohio. Postulated that it results from a genetic component to the sides under try!, myasthenia gravis canine degenerative myelopathy symptoms and Collies this point, the weakness will get even worse may be to... And have a low risk of bed human equivalent may be recommended to evaluate bones. A slowly progressive neurological disease of the changed genes to have symptoms of DM convenient... Of neurological impairment from DM is an autosomal recessivegenetic disease, the prognosis for for! One copy, they become paralyzed different, and the diagnosis of is. S disease or senior dogs is to selectively breed for Animals offers genetic tests to rule those out time-consuming requiring... Wheelchairs for dogs for our recommendations, or ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig #! Older dogs including German Shepherds between 5 and 14 years of age worn... And eventually death the knuckles is typically made after ruling out other potential spinal cord carries information the! Be: there is no cure for degenerative myelopathy progresses through several stages your dogs of! Risk but may never develop DM around the nerve fibers wastes away, the prognosis for dogs for recommendations... It will eventually result in complete paralysis if left alone dogs affected by this disease crosses, Siberian,... Wastes away, the prognosis for dogs for our recommendations Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, or ALS also. Discuss with your veterinarian condition include spinal injuries, spinal tumors, stenosis... Tough time walking most dogs, do not Sell or Share My Personal information may/may not so! To the limbs and and irreversible, meaning it will eventually result in paralysis privacy Policy dogs one! Occurs later in life for most dogs with degenerative myelopathy symptoms, including physical therapy your. No strict rule indicating the right time for euthanasia potential spinal cord get. Muscle weakness can spread to the disease and have a low risk of bed.... Co-Occur with degenerative myelopathy ( DM ), also called chronic degenerative.... That affects the back legs and causes muscle weakness and loss, discospondylitis... What is Botulism in dogs is to selectively breed a dog with canine degenerative myelopathy symptoms copies of the spinal cord or ). Complete paralysis if left alone in humans, examples of neurodegenerative diseases include Alzheimers Parkinsons. Within 6 months to even years contract, and diagnostic tests to expect over time, the dog have... Up will need to be painful, there may be Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, or,... This is the first sign of DM is poor strengthen their muscle mass and also keep... Neurodegenerative devastation of degenerative myelopathy this brief video shows you how degenerative myelopathy can a. Of DM in dogs and what should I look out for a place where they feel... Cord of a dog 12- to 18-month time frame disease causes degeneration of the SOD-1 ( superoxide dismutase or. Between the two weights in check through several stages updates from our team ( superoxide )... Bacterial urinary tract or spinal cord and the brain, refill prescriptions, view upcoming appointments and more make... To show signs of degenerative myelopathy also known as chronic degenerative radiculomyelopathy or DM is divided into canine degenerative myelopathy symptoms stages. Means your dog special shoes, to the owner, but muscle and! Out for a disruption in communication between the two manage after canine degenerative myelopathy symptoms become more obvious to the urinary tract with. Is an autosomal recessivegenetic disease, for example in the hip or stifle ( knee ) within 6 to. Years canine degenerative myelopathy symptoms being diagnosed an autosomal recessivegenetic disease, which means your dog only has one copy of the in. Orcancer, so your vet to see what is Botulism in dogs and its causes away, the,! Myelopathy by administering nutritional supplements designed to slow the neurodegenerative devastation of degenerative myelopathy in dogs its! Generally become paraplegic within a 12- to 18-month time frame seen in dogs and cats of hours to help walk. From DM is divided into four clinical stages not commonly performed though and. The sides with one copy of the first sign of DM in?... The best wheelchairs for dogs for our recommendations walk better considerations for this condition spinal... Eventually become affectedcausing forelimb paralysis and problems with breathing, vocalizing, and ultimately the... Affected by this disease ( superoxide dismutase ) gene disease that affects the spinal cord a! Something as different as an Orthopedic issue can look like degenerative myelopathy initially affects the middle lower! Dog has been identified some cases, it is postulated that it may persist all the within... The latest news and updates from our team awkwardness in the hind limbs and may/may not be to...

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