Idiopathic polyradiculoneuritis in dogs
This disease, often known as “Coonhound paralysis” in the US, shares some similarities with Guillain-Barre syndrome. It causes inflammation of the nerves supplying the legs as a result of the immune system attacking the nervous system. Some dogs may develop it due to a reaction to raccoon saliva (hence the name Coonhound paralysis; Coonhounds are raccoon hunters), but it can also develop in dogs that have had no contact with raccoons. In both animals and humans, nerve damage causes signs such as tingling, weakness, and, in some cases, total paralysis of all limbs.
What causes idiopathic polyradiculoneuritis?
Polyradiculoneuritis occurs when the animal’s immune system attacks the nerve tissue. An immune response may occur when the body reacts against a foreign protein, such as a protein found in raccoon saliva or in some bacterial or viral infections. The antibodies that are produced to remove this unexpected protein can also react with the body’s own tissue and cause damage. There is an association between some cases of the disease in dogs and contact with raccoon saliva (e.g., bites and scratches), but there are also cases where the disease appears to have resulted from consuming raw chicken contaminated with Campylobacter, respiratory infections, or vaccinations. It is believed that bad luck rather than negligence causes idiopathic polyradiculoneuritis, the true cause of which remains unknown.
What are the signs of idiopathic polyradiculoneuritis?
It usually takes 7-14 days for the first signs of a disease to appear following a raccoon bite, scratch, vaccination, or illness. It is very common for the signs to develop suddenly without any identifiable inciting cause. Because of the time lag between contact with the cause and the development of signs, it can be difficult to determine the underlying cause. Initially, the pet may appear stiff and have an odd walking pattern. The signs generally worsen over 4-5 days, and the animals may eventually be unable to stand because they become weak on their legs. A very severe case may result in the pet being unable to move its head or bark. There is usually no change in tail wagging or bowel or bladder function. Depending on the severity of the disease, the signs may persist for several weeks or months. There should be no obvious signs of discomfort for the pet due to this condition.
How do I diagnose idiopathic polyradiculoneuritis?
This is a relatively infrequent condition that causes progressive and obvious weakness. Further investigation will be needed to determine what is causing the signs. Many conditions can cause similar signs. It may be necessary to refer the pet to another hospital or vet who specialises in neurological diseases. It is possible that the neurology specialist will conduct electrical conduction in the nerves to check how well they work here, in addition to performing a full examination of the nervous system. Inflammation or damage to the nerve may be assessed through a biopsy. It is sometimes necessary to collect a sample of fluid from around the spinal cord for analysis. Approximately 6 out of 10 dogs can test positive for anti-GM2 ganglioside antibodies through a blood test. Many times, the diagnosis is based on elimination, ruling out diseases such as botulism, myasthenia gravis, toxicity, and in some countries, tick paralysis and snake bites.
How can the owner car for a pet with idiopathic polyradiculoneuritis?
It is not possible to treat this condition specifically, but good nursing care is essential to support the pet while they heal. The pet may need to be hospitalised if they are severely affected. There is a possibility that this can last for weeks. Pets who are unable to stand or move voluntarily must receive good nursing care to prevent sores and ulcers. Feeding dogs by hand may be necessary if they are unable to reach a food bowl, while keeping them hydrated can be done by placing them on a drip.
A very small number of pets may need oxygen therapy for breathing if their breathing muscles are affected.
An owner may be able to take their pet home for continued nursing care as their pet recovers. After initial improvement, cases sometimes turn for the worse, so regular monitoring is necessary. Strengthening the limbs and preventing muscle loss can be achieved through intensive physiotherapy or hydrotherapy.
Will a dog recover from idiopathic polyradiculoneuritis?
It is common for dogs to begin to recover normal function in their limbs after 7-10 days. Recovery may take weeks or months, and long-term physical therapy may be required. Dogs that are unable to stand for months or those whose breathing muscles are affected have a much bleaker outlook.