Idiopathic granulomatous and necrotizing inflammatory disorders of the canine central nervous system

Abstract

Granulomatous meningoencephalomyelitis (GME), necrotizing meningoencephalitis (NME), and necrotizing leukoencephalitis (NLE) are common inflammatory conditions of the canine central nervous system (CNS). While each disease has unique histopathological features, these canine disorders collectively seem to be aberrant immune responses directed against the CNS. A review of the neurologic signs and general neurodiagnostic approach to canine meningoencephalitis (ME) is followed by an overview of the specific clinical and neuropathological features of GME, NME, and NLE. The etiopathogenesis of each disorder is explored, including potential genetic, immunologic, and environmental factors, along with the current and prospective immunomodulatory therapies for ME.