Meningoencephalomyelitis of Unknown Etiology: Short-Term Effect of Two Treatment Protocols on Cerebrospinal Fluid

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DOI: 10.23880/oajvsr-16000288

Volume 10, Issue 2

Abstract

Background: The early disease course of meningoencephalomyelitis of unknown etiology (MUE) is particularly vulnerable. Cerebrospinal fluid is a sensitive indicator of inflammatory disease and can be used for diagnosis and monitoring disease response to treatment. Objective: Compare the effects of glucocorticoids alone versus glucocorticoids and cytarabine on cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis in dogs within 72 hours of diagnosis with MUE. Method: CSF was collected from 10 dogs diagnosed with MUE. Six dogs were administered immunosuppressive glucocorticoids, and four dogs were administered immunosuppressive glucocorticoids and a 300 mg/m² cytarabine CRI over 24 hours. Repeat CSF analyses were performed 69-72 hours after the first administration of Dex SP IV. Results: The median nucleated cell count (NCC) and total protein (TP) levels decreased in both therapy groups. There was no statistical difference in CSF analysis between the two treatment groups after therapy. Conclusion: Seventy-two hours after MUE diagnosis and treatment, the reduction in NCC and TP between initial and repeat CSF analysis was decreased and there was no significant difference in NCC or TP reduction between treatment groups.

Keywords: Dog; Meningoencephalomyelitis; Cytarabine; Dexamethasone SP; Cerebrospinal Fluid

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