Meningitis is a condition in which the three membranes that cover the spinal cord and brain become inflamed. Aseptic meningitis differs from other forms of meningitis in that it is caused by an unspecified reaction of the immune system, rather than the usual causes, which are fungal, bacterial or viral infections. All dog owners should know and understand this potentially life-threatening condition.
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Occurrence
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While aseptic meningitis is capable of affecting dogs of any breed and age, it is seen most often in medium and large canines. Breeds commonly affected include Labrador and golden retrievers, German shepherds, weimaraners and Bernese mountain dogs. Canines between the ages of 4 months and 2 years are particularly at risk for developing this condition. Aseptic meningitis affects both male and female dogs, with equal distribution among sexes.
Symptoms
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Dogs suffering from aseptic meningitis present with unique symptoms. Signs of this condition in canines include neck pain, fever, periods of inactivity, reluctance to move about and the appearance of a hunched back. It is not uncommon for symptoms to become spontaneously better or worse throughout the course of the illness. If left untreated for extended periods of time, additional symptoms and complications, such as neurological issues, may develop. Examples of neurological problems include blindness, weakness and paralysis.
Diagnosis
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Veterinarians diagnose aseptic meningitis through physical and neurological examinations, obtaining a thorough patient history and performing a test known as a cerebrospinal tap. The cerebrospinal tap, or CSF, allows veterinary professionals to obtain information regarding the dog's white cell count and protein levels, both of which change drastically when canines are suffering from aseptic meningitis.
Treatment
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Canine aseptic meningitis is treated with medications known as immunosuppressive drugs. An example of this type of drug is prednisone. Dogs respond to these medications quite quickly, with improvement and changes in behavior generally noted in just 24 to 48 hours. Immunosuppressive drugs are typically used for four weeks or longer in order to treat aseptic meningitis in dogs. Unfortunately, drugs of this type are known to cause side effects, such as panting and a noticeable increase in eating, drinking and urination.
Warning
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Aseptic meningitis is a serious and potentially life-threatening condition. Home care is not an appropriate or effective form of treatment and may worsen the dog's overall condition. Seek veterinary help as soon as a dog begins displaying any symptoms of aseptic meningitis. Complications and additional symptoms will develop if canine aseptic meningitis is left untreated for extended periods of time.
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