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Necrotizing meningoencephalitis in a large mixed-breed dog
Chelsie M Estey1, Steven J Scott, Sofia Cerda-Gonzalez
1Neurology Service, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853.
Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association
|November 20, 2014
Summary
Necrotizing meningoencephalitis, a severe brain inflammation, was diagnosed in a large mixed-breed dog. This case highlights the importance of considering this condition in non-toy breeds presenting with neurological signs.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Neurology
- Canine Pathology
- Neuroinflammation
Background:
- Necrotizing meningoencephalitis (NME) is a severe inflammatory brain disease.
- Typically, NME is reported in small or toy breed dogs.
- This report details a case in a large mixed-breed dog.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report the first known case of NME in a large mixed-breed dog.
- To describe the clinical, imaging, and histopathological findings.
- To emphasize NME as a differential diagnosis in affected dogs.
Main Methods:
- A 4-year-old, 26-kg Staffordshire Bull Terrier mix presented with acute seizures.
- Diagnostic procedures included neurological examination, MRI, and brain biopsy.
- Immunohistochemistry was performed to rule out infectious causes.
Main Results:
- MRI revealed multifocal forebrain lesions, necrosis, and signs of increased intracranial pressure.
- Histopathology showed asymmetric necrosis, glial activation, and lymphocytic infiltration.
- Despite medical and surgical interventions (bilateral craniectomy and durectomy), the dog's condition worsened.
Conclusions:
- This case represents the first documented instance of NME in a large mixed-breed dog.
- NME should be considered in the differential diagnosis for dogs of all sizes exhibiting signs of inflammatory brain disease.
- The findings underscore the aggressive nature of NME and the challenges in its management.
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