Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Magnetic resonance imaging prognostic factors for survival and relapse in dogs with meningoencephalitis of unknown origin.
- Journal:
- Frontiers in veterinary science
- Year:
- 2024
- Authors:
- Gonçalves, Rita et al.
- Affiliation:
- Department of Veterinary Science · United Kingdom
- Species:
- dog
Plain-English summary
This study looked at dogs with meningoencephalitis of unknown origin (MUO), a serious condition that can lead to death. Researchers analyzed MRI scans from 138 dogs to see if certain findings could help predict how long the dogs might live and whether they would have a relapse of the disease. They found that dogs with fewer lesions in certain brain areas tended to survive longer, while those with more lesions after contrast dye were more likely to have a relapse. These findings could help veterinarians make better treatment decisions for dogs with this condition. Overall, the study suggests that MRI results can provide useful information about the prognosis for dogs with MUO.
Abstract
INTRODUCTION: Canine meningoencephalitis of unknown origin (MUO) is a debilitating disease associated with high mortality. The prognostic value of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings for predicting survival at 12 months and long-term relapse remains uncertain. METHODS: This was a retrospective cohort study evaluating the prognostic value of different MRI variables using multivariable logistic regression and Cox proportional hazards analysis. RESULTS: In total, 138 dogs were presumptively diagnosed with MUO. The most common location for lesions identified on MRI were the white matter tracts of the corona radiata and corpus callosum, followed by the frontal, sensorimotor and temporal cortices. Lower T2 lesion load (= 0.006, OR = 0.942, CI = 0.902-0.983) was associated with longer survival and higher T1 post-contrast lesion load (= 0.023, OR = 1.162, CI = 1.021-1.322) was associated with relapse. DISCUSSION: This study has identified prognostic factors that may help identify dogs at higher risk of death and relapse and therefore guide treatment recommendations.
Find similar cases for your pet
PetCaseFinder finds other peer-reviewed reports of pets with the same symptoms, plus a plain-English summary of what was tried across them.
Search related cases →Original publication: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38482167/