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Presumptive steroid-responsive radiculoneuritis in dogs.
Carmen Manuela Stan1, Matthew James2, Mark Lowrie3
1Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery Service, Pride Veterinary Referrals, IVC Evidensia, Derby DE24 8HX, United Kingdom.
Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine
|May 21, 2026
Summary
Presumptive steroid-responsive radiculoneuritis (PSRRN) in dogs presents with spinal nerve enlargement and chronic monoparesis. MRI findings are suggestive but not definitive, emphasizing the need to consider inflammatory causes.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Neurology
- Canine Medicine
- Inflammatory Neuropathies
Background:
- Presumptive steroid-responsive radiculoneuritis (PSRRN) in dogs is a rare condition that can mimic neoplasia due to similar clinical and imaging features.
- Accurate differentiation is crucial for determining the appropriate prognosis and treatment plan for affected dogs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize the clinical presentation, diagnostic findings, MRI features, treatment strategies, and outcomes for dogs diagnosed with PSRRN affecting spinal nerves and nerve roots.
- To improve the diagnostic accuracy and management of canine radiculoneuritis.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective review was conducted on 15 dogs diagnosed with PSRRN at two UK referral centers between 2019 and 2025.
- Inclusion criteria involved MRI findings consistent with nerve and nerve root inflammation in specific spinal cord segments (C6-T2 or L4-S3) and a minimum 12-month follow-up period.
Main Results:
- Dogs presented with a mean duration of 8 weeks of lameness and monoparesis, with a mean age of 50.6 months. German Shepherds were overrepresented (4/15 cases).
- MRI consistently showed contrast-enhancing, T2W, and STIR hyperintense lesions, frequently involving the L7 and T1 nerves/roots. Albuminocytological dissociation was noted in 4/5 dogs on CSF analysis.
- All dogs responded to medical treatment, though 3 experienced relapses during a median follow-up of 25 months.
Conclusions:
- PSRRN should be considered in dogs exhibiting diffuse spinal nerve and nerve root enlargement with chronic monoparesis.
- While MRI findings are suggestive of PSRRN, they are not pathognomonic, underscoring the importance of including inflammatory conditions in the differential diagnosis for spinal nerve enlargement.
