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Brain Atrophy in Dogs With Meningoencephalitis of Unknown Origin

Rita Gonçalves1,2, Gemma Walmsley1,2, Thomas W Maddox1,2

  • 1Department of Veterinary Science, Small Animal Teaching Hospital, University of Liverpool, Leahurst, Neston, UK.

Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine
|June 6, 2025
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Brain atrophy likely occurs in dogs with meningoencephalitis of unknown origin (MUO), as shown by repeat MRI scans. This brain atrophy is linked to poorer outcomes and may indicate a need for more aggressive treatment strategies.

Area of Science:

  • Veterinary Neurology
  • Neuroimaging

Background:

  • Information on repeat magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings in dogs with meningoencephalitis of unknown origin (MUO) is limited.
  • It remains unclear if brain atrophy develops in canine MUO cases.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the occurrence of brain atrophy in dogs diagnosed with MUO.
  • To assess the association between brain atrophy and survival rates or disease relapse in these dogs.

Main Methods:

  • A retrospective study involving 23 dogs with MUO who underwent two brain MRI scans at least six months apart.
  • Quantitative MRI metrics, including interthalamic adhesion to brain height ratio (ITr), lateral ventricle to brain height ratio (LVr), bicaudate ratio (BCR), and total parenchymal brain volume (TPBV), were measured and compared between scans.

Main Results:

  • Thirteen dogs experienced relapse, and four died during the study. All measured MRI variables showed significant changes between the two scans.
  • Increased total parenchymal brain volume (TPBV) was associated with enhanced survival (OR=1.59, P=0.047). No specific MRI variables correlated with relapse.
  • New or contrast-enhancing lesions on repeat MRI were observed in six dogs, five of whom subsequently relapsed.

Conclusions:

  • Brain atrophy is likely present in dogs with MUO and correlates with adverse outcomes.
  • The presence of new or contrast-enhancing lesions on repeat MRI may predict clinical relapse, suggesting a need for intensified therapeutic approaches.
Keywords:
MRIMUObrain atrophycanineoutcomeprognosis

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