Rebecca C. Windsor, DACVIM (Neurology): No financial relationships to disclose
Presentation Description / Summary: The classically recognized form of necrotizing meningoencephalitis (NME) is typically fatal even with aggressive immunosuppressive therapy. We have recently identified an early clinical phase of NME in young Pugs characterized by repeatable and progressive neurological exam abnormalities including multifocal spinal pain, menace response deficits, and paw placement deficits. Seizures have been noted in approximately 1/3 of dogs. We will review the results of our early intervention studies using allogenic mesenchymal stem cells and/or cytarabine arabinoside to successfully reverse neurological exam abnormalities in all Pugs with early NME. Plans for future screening of young Pugs and collaborative opportunities will be discussed.
Learner Outcomes: 1. Understand the neurological abnormalities associated with early NME 2. Understand the value of early intervention therapy for NME 3. Understand basic mechanisms and potential utility of mesenchymal stem cell therapy in neuroinflammatory diseases
Learning Objectives:
recognize the clinical signs associated with the early NME phenotype
understand similarities between multiple sclerosis and necrotizing meningoencephalitis
recongize the value of treatment early in the course of disease and potential benefit of stem cell therapy
