Dog with steroid-responsive meningitis-arteritis and heart problems

Abstract

Canine steroid-responsive meningitis-arteritis (SRMA) is an immune-mediated inflammatory disorder targeting the leptomeninges and associated vasculature with systemic inflammation and occasionally with mild systolic dysfunction and cardiac arrhythmias. Hypercoagulability has not been previously documented in dogs with SRMA, despite increases in inflammatory markers. This case report describes a 6-month-old female Australian heeler dog with acute progressive pyrexia and cervical hyperesthesia. Notable findings included marked decreased cardiac contractility and hypercoagulability determinedviscoelastic coagulation monitor and rotational thromboelastographic analysis. The SRMA was diagnosed based on clinical findings, cerebrospinal fluid analysis, magnetic resonance imaging, elimination of infectious causes of meningitis, and resolution of abnormalities after treatment with immunosuppressive medications. This is the first report describing severe systolic dysfunction and hypercoagulability in a dog with SRMA. The findings support routinely evaluating cardiac function and coagulation in dogs with SRMA and considering treatment with antithrombotic drugs when warranted. Key clinical message: It is important to consider cardiovascular and coagulation complications in dogs with SRMA. Dogs exhibiting atypical findings, such as arrythmia or unexplained clinical deterioration, may require further diagnostic workup. Early identification of these complications could necessitate the use of antithrombotic drugs and prompt monitoring of cardiac function to optimize patient outcomes.