Necrotising meningoencephalitis(NME)
Also known as: Pug Dog Encephalitis · PDE · Nekrotisierende Meningoenzephalitis · Meningoenzephalitis der Mops-Hunde · Necrotizing meningoencephalitis
Overview
What it is
Necrotising meningoencephalitis is a severe, progressive inflammatory disease of the brain and its protective outer membranes, known as the meninges. It occurs when the dog's own immune system mistakenly attacks healthy nerve tissue, causing tissue death, or necrosis, in the brain. This condition primarily affects the central nervous system of certain small and toy dog breeds.
How it presents
Owners typically notice sudden neurological signs such as seizures, disorientation, blindness, or unusual behavioral changes. These symptoms most commonly first appear in dogs between 6 months and 7 years of age.
Treatment
The disease is incurable and requires lifelong medical management, including immunosuppressive therapies and anti-seizure medications. Ongoing veterinary care and treatment typically cost between €3,000 and €10,000.
How it's tested
Embark Breed + Health Panel(Embark)
DNA testUS-Anbieter; 250+ genetische Erkrankungen + Abstammung. Anerkennung in DE/AT variiert je nach VDH-Verein.
Issuing body: Embark
Result scheme: Clear/Carrier/Affected
MyDogDNA Panel(MyDogDNA)
DNA testGenoscoper-basiertes Panel (Mars Petcare). 200+ Erkrankungen + Rassenkomposition.
Issuing body: MyDogDNA
Result scheme: Clear/Carrier/Affected
Feragen Komplettpaket (rassespezifisch)(Feragen-Panel)
DNA testRassespezifisches DNA-Panel (Feragen, Österreich) — gleiches Konzept wie Labogen.
Issuing body: Feragen
Result scheme: Clear/Carrier/Affected
Labogen Komplettpaket (rassespezifisch)(Labogen-Panel)
DNA testRassespezifisches DNA-Panel (Labogen / Laboklin) — bündelt alle relevanten Erbkrankheiten der Rasse in einem Test.
Issuing body: Labogen
Result scheme: Clear/Carrier/Affected
Affected breeds
Treatment cost
Estimated range of typical treatment cost. Actual cost depends on severity, clinic and region.
Frequently asked
What is Necrotising meningoencephalitis?
Necrotising meningoencephalitis is a severe, progressive inflammatory disease of the brain and its protective outer membranes, known as the meninges. It occurs when the dog's own immune system mistakenly attacks healthy nerve tissue, causing tissue death, or necrosis, in the brain. This condition primarily affects the central nervous system of certain small and toy dog breeds.
How is Necrotising meningoencephalitis tested?
Tests currently in our database: Embark Breed + Health Panel, MyDogDNA Panel, Feragen Komplettpaket (rassespezifisch), Labogen Komplettpaket (rassespezifisch).
Which breeds are most affected?
This condition isn't tied to a specific breed in our database.