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Updated: Jun 26, 2026

Isolation and Cannulation of Cerebral Parenchymal Arterioles
Published on: May 23, 2016
Cerebral extension of steroid-responsive meningitis arteritis in a boxer
M Wrzosek1, M Konar, M Vandevelde
1Division of Clinical Neurology, Department of Clinical Veterinary Medicine, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland.
Abstract:
A comatose 30-month-old, entire male boxer was presented because of an acute history of a cluster of three to four seizures. Neurological examination suggested a diffuse to multifocal intracranial lesion. Magnetic resonance tomography revealed symmetrical multifocal to diffuse changes of the cerebral grey matter and ependymal lining with sediment in the lateral ventricles. Haematological examination revealed leucocytosis with neutrophilia. Cerebrospinal fluid examination revealed high protein concentration and polymorphonuclear pleocytosis. Despite antiepileptic treatment, therapy against increased intracranial pressure and antibiosis, the dog's condition continued to deteriorate and he was euthanased. Pathological examination revealed fibrinosuppurative meningo-ependymitis and necrotising arteritis throughout the brain. In addition, chronic inflammation and arterial stenosis was found in the spinal meninges. No infectious agent was found. A diagnosis of steroid-responsive meningitis arteritis was made. The massive extension into the meninges and ventricular system of the forebrain has not been described previously in dogs with steroid-responsive meningitis arteritis and should be considered in the differential diagnosis when an intracranial suppurative infection is suspected.
Insights
Steroid-responsive meningitis arteritis can affect a dog's entire brain and spinal cord, presenting as a severe neurological condition. This case highlights its extensive presentation, crucial for diagnosing suspected intracranial infections.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Neurology
- Immunology
Background:
- Steroid-responsive meningitis arteritis (SRMA) is an immune-mediated inflammatory disease affecting dogs.
- Typically, SRMA involves inflammation of the meninges, particularly around the base of the brain.
Observation:
- A 30-month-old boxer presented with seizures and neurological deficits.
- Advanced imaging revealed widespread cerebral grey matter and ependymal lining changes with ventricular sediment.
- Cerebrospinal fluid analysis showed elevated protein and polymorphonuclear pleocytosis.
Findings:
- Pathological examination confirmed fibrinosuppurative meningo-ependymitis and necrotizing arteritis throughout the brain.
- Chronic inflammation and arterial stenosis were noted in the spinal meninges.
- No infectious agents were identified, leading to a diagnosis of SRMA.
Implications:
- This case demonstrates an unusually extensive SRMA affecting the forebrain's meninges and ventricular system.
- The findings expand the differential diagnosis for suspected intracranial suppurative infections in dogs.
- Recognizing this severe presentation is vital for accurate diagnosis and management of SRMA.
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