Pug Dog Encephalitis

More Information

Pug Dog Encephalitis

By: Dr. Arnold Plotnick

Overview

Pug Dog Encephalitis (PDE) is a unique form of brain inflammation affecting adolescent and young adult pugs. It is believed to be a genetic condition, as littermates and closely related dogs are often affected. It is a rapidly progressing disorder for which there is no cure.

The cause of the condition is unknown. Although infectious disorders are known to cause encephalitis, infection is apparently not the cause of PDE. Recent studies suggest that an abnormal response by the body's immune system may play a role in the development of the disorder.

The disease is limited to pugs. Female pugs are slightly more likely to be affected compared to males. Although it has been reported in middle aged pugs, the majority of affected pugs are less than 3 years old, and pugs as young as 6 months can be affected.

PDE is invariably fatal. All dogs either die or are put to sleep within a few months after the onset of clinical signs.

Affected dogs show clinical signs that indicated a problem with the brain and nervous system.

What to Watch For

Seizures

Walking in circles

Pressing their heads against the wall or furniture

Ataxia (a staggering walk)

Apparent blindness

Neck pain

See your veterinarian immediately if any of these signs develop.

Diagnosis

Diagnostic tests are needed to recognized PDE and exclude other diseases, including:

Complete history and physical exam, including a complete examination of the neurologic system.

A spinal tap (a procedure in which a small sample of the fluid that bathes the brain and spinal cord is obtained and analyzed) may give helpful information for making the diagnosis.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a diagnostic test that allows visualization of the structures of the brain and is very useful in making a diagnosis. It requires specialized equipment available only at referral centers and universities.

Post-mortem tissue analysis, in which a sample of brain tissue is examined after the dog dies or is euthanized, is necessary to make a definitive diagnosis.

Treatment

Although PDE is invariably fatal, treatment may control clinical signs for a brief period of time. Treatment may include the following:

Anticonvulsants, such as phenobarbital, may help control seizures, the most common clinical sign of PDE.

Corticosteroids are anti-inflammatory drugs, and may help reduce some of the brain inflammation associated with the disorder.

Homeopathic remedies, such as Japanese Kampo (a plant product) have been tried.

Home Care and Prevention

Administer all medication as prescribed.

As the disease is believed to be genetic, there are no preventative measures. Affected dogs should not be bred, and owners of any littermates or closely related dogs should be informed that their dog is highly susceptible to the condition.

Important

If your pet is showing any signs of distress or you suspect your pet is seriously ill, CONTACT YOUR VETERINARIAN immediately.

Medical: Pug Dog Encephalitis
Granulomatous Meningoencephalitis GME or Granulomatous Meningoencephalitis is a common inflammatory brain disease in dogs. The cause is unknown. Female dogs of small breeds, especially terriers, poodles and poodle crosses are predisposed. Although GME can occur at any age, most instances occur between 2 and 6 years of age. A chronic form of GME called "Pug Dog Encephalitis" occurs as an inherited disease in Pugs between the ages of 9 months and 4 years. It often begins with seizures, confusion, and loss of memory. GME can affect all parts of the brain (the disseminated form), or only specific areas (the focal form). There is a rare ocular form which targets the optic nerves of the eyes. Below each form of GME will be discussed separately including what things to look for and at the end treatment options will be outlined.
Forms of GME
Disseminated GME Appears suddenly and progresses over a matter of just a few weeks. Symptoms include: Incoordination Stumbling Falling Circling Head tilting Seizures Dementia Focal GME Symptoms may be vague at first and develop into the disseminating form over a period of 3 to 6 months. Behavior and personality changes may be what is seen predominately in the initial stages of the disease. Symptoms that are visible in the initial stages depend greatly on the portion and amount of the brain affected. Some of the symptoms may include: Seizures Staggering gait Head Tilt Nystagmus (rhythmic movement of the eyeballs) Limb Weakness or paralysis Ocular GME Since this form affects the optic nerve there are various symptoms that can be seen related to the dog's ability to see. This form progresses to the disseminated form of the disease more slowly than the Focal form. It is most commonly characterized by sudden blindness with a dilated pupil. Overall, GME can be suspected when a small breed dog of fairly young age inexplicably develops confusion, disorientation, seizures or other neurological signs that progress rapidly over the course of a few weeks. Especially when there is no past history of head injury from any kind of trauma. A spinal tap with analysis of the cerebrospinal fluid helps to confirm the diagnosis. A CT scan or MRI of the brain and head is useful in determining the form and location of the disease Treatment Corticosteroids and immunosuppresive drugs may help to slow the progression of GME and provide some temporary relief for several months. However, GME in all cases is almost invariably a progressive and fatal disease.