Pug Dog Encephalitis
by Dr. Arnold
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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
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| Walking in circles
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| Pressing their heads against the wall or furniture
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| Ataxia (a staggering walk)
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| Apparent blindness
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| Neck pain
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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.
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| 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.
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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.
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| 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. |
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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.
Editorial Note: These
articles are meant to increase knowledge of
various conditions only. They are not
intended to, nor can they, replace the advice and treatment of a licensed
medical provider. A licensed
practitioner of medicine should always be consulted for an accurate diagnosis
and for supervision of any medical condition.
Pug Manor urges all visitors to seek the best medical advice available to
receive the best, most informed treatment.
Pug Manor is not responsible for any unsupervised use of any herb or
alternative treatment for any condition by any visitor to our site.
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