Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Magnetic resonance imaging, clinicopathologic findings, and clinical progression of a puppy with confirmed Eastern equine encephalitis virus.
- Journal:
- The Canadian veterinary journal = La revue veterinaire canadienne
- Year:
- 2021
- Authors:
- Sun, Jessica A & Hallowell, Terry C
- Affiliation:
- Ocean State Veterinary Specialists · United States
- Species:
- dog
Plain-English summary
A 5-month-old puppy was taken to the vet because it was showing serious signs of neurological problems and had a fever. Tests, including an MRI, showed that the puppy had swelling in the brain and some parts of the brain were pushing down into the spinal canal, which is very concerning. A test of the fluid around the brain showed a lot of cells, and unfortunately, the puppy had to be euthanized due to the severity of its condition. Further testing confirmed that the puppy was infected with Eastern equine encephalitis virus, which can lead to rapid deterioration and serious complications. Sadly, the treatment did not work, and the puppy did not survive.
Abstract
A 5-month-old puppy was evaluated for rapidly progressive neurologic signs and pyrexia. Magnetic resonance imaging showed multifocal meningoencephalitis with transtentorial and foramen magnum herniation. A cerebrospinal fluid tap revealed highly cellular fluid, and the puppy was euthanized. Histopathology showed lymphoplasmacytic and neutrophilic meningoencephalitis. Viral polymerase chain reaction testing for Eastern equine encephalitis was positive. Rapid progression of neurologic signs and respiratory arrest necessitated mechanical ventilation. Severe hypernatremia, most consistent with central diabetes insipidus, developed. Key clinical message: Transtentorial and foramen magnum herniation and high cerebrospinal fluid cell counts may be indicators of poor prognosis. Brain death, respiratory arrest, and central diabetes insipidus may also ensue with Eastern equine encephalitis infection.
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Search related cases →Original publication: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34857965/