Inflammatory meningitis in a 7-month old Golden Retriever

Abstract

A 7-month old female spayed Golden Retriever presented for evaluation of cervical pain. Prior to initial presentation, medical management had been initiated, with minimal improvement. 4-Dx SNAP test and Toxoplasma serum titers were negative. Radiographs of the cervical spine were normal. Upon presentation, a complete blood count, chemistry panel and urinalysis were unremarkable, and MRI of the cervical spine revealed no abnormalities. A cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis was performed and was unremarkable. A definitive cause of the neck pain was not determined at this time. The patient's condition worsened and a repeat CSF analysis was performed, revealing an eosinophilic pleocytosis with elevated total protein level. Testing for Neospora, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, Cryptococcus, and Canine Distemper Virus were negative. Joint taps and serum C-reactive protein levels were normal. Serum IgA levels were low. Top differentials included Steroid-Responsive Meningitis-Arteritis and Eosinophilic Meningoencephalitis. Treatment included tapering doses of corticosteroid therapy over 6 months, as well as cyclosporine administration, in order to resolve clinical signs and prevent relapse.