Meningitis(SRMA)
Also known as: Steroid-Responsive Meningitis-Arteritis · Aseptische Meningitis · Beagle Pain Syndrome · Meningitis-Arteriitis · Hirnhautentzündung · …
Overview
What it is
Meningitis is a severe inflammatory condition affecting the protective membranes, called meninges, and blood vessels surrounding the brain and spinal cord. In dogs, this most commonly occurs as an immune-mediated disorder known as Steroid-Responsive Meningitis-Arteritis (SRMA), or 'Steril-eitrige Meningitis-Arteriitis'. This means the dog's own immune system mistakenly triggers inflammation in these nervous system tissues without any actual infection being present.
How it presents
Owners typically notice a sudden onset of severe neck and back pain, a stiff or hunched posture, reluctance to move, and a high fever. These symptoms most commonly appear in young dogs between 6 and 18 months of age.
Treatment
The condition is treatable, usually requiring a long-term course of immunosuppressive medications like corticosteroids over several months rather than lifelong therapy. Treatment and diagnostic monitoring typically cost between €1,500 and €4,000.
How it's tested
Hüftgelenksdysplasie-Auswertung (HD-Röntgen) nach FCI(HD-FCI)
Primary testRadiographRöntgenaufnahme der Hüftgelenke unter Sedation, ausgewertet nach FCI-Standard (A-E). Standardpflicht bei den meisten VDH-Zuchtvereinen.
Issuing body: FCI
Result scheme: HD-FCI
Affected breeds
2 of 2 breeds
Treatment cost
Estimated range of typical treatment cost. Actual cost depends on severity, clinic and region.
Frequently asked
What is Meningitis?
Meningitis is a severe inflammatory condition affecting the protective membranes, called meninges, and blood vessels surrounding the brain and spinal cord. In dogs, this most commonly occurs as an immune-mediated disorder known as Steroid-Responsive Meningitis-Arteritis (SRMA), or 'Steril-eitrige Meningitis-Arteriitis'. This means the dog's own immune system mistakenly triggers inflammation in these nervous system tissues without any actual infection being present.
How is Meningitis tested?
Tests currently in our database: Hüftgelenksdysplasie-Auswertung (HD-Röntgen) nach FCI.
Which breeds are most affected?
Most commonly affected: Bernese Mountain Dog, Pug.