Differential diagnosis of granulomatous meningoencephalomyelitis, distemper, and suppurative meningoencephalitis in the dog

Clinical differences were determined between granulomatous meningoencephalomyelitis, distemper, and suppurative meningoencephalitis in the dog. Dogs with granulomatous meningoencephalomyelitis had "head" signs on examination, which progressed to profound caudal fossa abnormalities, changes in mental status, and tetraparesis. Dogs with distemper had a gradual onset of posterior paresis; tetraparesis and occasional vestibular signs developed later in the course of disease. Dogs with suppurative meningoencephalitis had lethargy and anorexia at the time of examination, which progressed to nuchal rigidity, mental depression, tetraparesis, and profound alterations in consciousness. Analysis of cerebral spinal fluid was useful in distinguishing suppurative meningoencephalitis from the other 2 diseases. Twenty-seven cases of inflammatory disease of the CNS in dogs were reviewed. Comparisons of history, results of physical and neurologic examinations, ancillary data, and response to treatment were made. It appeared that certain clinical and neurologic features contributed to the diagnosis of these diseases.