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Published on: July 7, 2017
A canine febrile disorder associated with elevated interleukin-6
A L Rivas1, L Tintle, E S Kimball
1Department of Pathology, New York State College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca 14853.
Clinical Immunology and Immunopathology
|July 1, 1992
Summary
Chinese Shar-pei dogs exhibit a syndrome similar to Familial Mediterranean Fever (FMF), characterized by recurrent fever of unknown origin (RFUO) and inflammation. Elevated IL-6 levels suggest a potential animal model for FMF research.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Immunology
- Genetics
Background:
- Familial Mediterranean Fever (FMF) is a human autoinflammatory disorder.
- Chinese Shar-pei (CSP) dogs present with recurrent fever of unknown origin (RFUO), renal amyloidosis, and joint inflammation, mirroring FMF symptoms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the clinical and immunological similarities between CSP dogs with RFUO and human FMF.
- To determine if CSP dogs can serve as a valuable animal model for studying FMF.
Main Methods:
- Serum IL-6 levels were measured in CSP dogs with RFUO and compared to healthy controls.
- Epidemiological survey to determine the prevalence of RFUO in CSP dogs versus other breeds.
- Assessment of lymphocyte blastogenesis and clinical signs in affected dogs.
Main Results:
- CSP dogs with RFUO showed significantly higher serum IL-6 levels than controls.
- RFUO in older CSP dogs was linked to renal failure, amyloidosis, and arthritis.
- Prevalence of RFUO was 23% in CSP dogs, compared to 1% in all breeds.
Conclusions:
- CSP dogs with RFUO, renal amyloidosis, and joint inflammation represent a potential animal model for FMF.
- Elevated circulating IL-6 levels are associated with the clinical syndrome in these dogs.
- This model may aid in understanding FMF pathogenesis and developing new therapies.
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