Meningitis

Steroid Responsive Meningitis is a condition that involves a dog's central nervous system primarily. The central nervous system consists of brain and spinal cord. Meningitis means inflammation of the meninges, the covering layer of the central nervous system. The condition is referred to as SRMA, or steroid responsive meningitis-arteritis because it affects the arteries in many body system tissues as well.

Treatments
The diagnosis of this condition can be a challenge and thorough physical and neurological examination, laboratory tests, spinal fluid analysis, X-rays, and CT scans may be recommended. Initial treatment includes supportive care and steroid medications. Long-term steroid administration is needed to control this condition. Some dogs need stronger immune system suppressant medication (immunosuppressives). If aggressive therapy is instituted early, and a chronic relapsing condition does not develop, the prognosis is fairly good, with about 60 per cent cure rate. (more)