Granulomatous meningoencephalitis

Granulomatous Meningoencephalitis (GME) is a rare, non-infectious inflammatory disease of the central nervous system (CNS) that affects primarily dogs, but has also been recognized in humans. It is characterized by the formation of granulomatous lesions, which are clusters of immune cells, in the brain and spinal cord.

Etiology

The exact cause of GME is unknown, but it is believed to be an autoimmune disease, where the body's immune system mistakenly attacks its own tissues. Some researchers suggest that it may be triggered by an infection or exposure to certain toxins, but this has not been definitively proven.

Clinical Signs

Clinical signs of GME can vary widely depending on the location and extent of the lesions in the CNS. Common signs include seizures, changes in behavior, loss of coordination, and weakness. In severe cases, GME can lead to paralysis or death.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of GME is challenging and often requires a combination of clinical signs, MRI findings, and cerebrospinal fluid analysis. In some cases, a biopsy of the brain or spinal cord may be necessary to confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment

Treatment for GME typically involves long-term administration of immunosuppressive drugs to reduce inflammation and slow the progression of the disease. In some cases, radiation therapy may also be used. Despite treatment, the prognosis for dogs with GME is generally poor.

See Also

• Meningitis
• Encephalitis
• Autoimmune Disease
• Central Nervous System

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