Overview
Steroid-Responsive Meningitis-Arteritis (SRMA) is an inflammatory condition that affects the protective membranes around the brain and spinal cord (called the meninges), as well as the nearby blood vessels. It’s an immune-mediated disorder, meaning the dog’s immune system becomes overactive and mistakenly targets its own tissues. It usually seen in young dogs under two years of age.
Causes
Steroid-Responsive Meningitis-Arteritis is considered a hereditary disease. While it can affect any breed, certain breeds including Beagles, Boxers, Bernese Mountain Dogs, Golden Retrievers and Corgis appear to be more commonly affected.
Clinical Signs
Clinical signs of SRMA often have a sudden onset and affected dogs typically experience severe neck pain. They may cry out unexpectedly, hold their head low, be reluctant to move, or shy away from being touched due to discomfort. Some may also have a fever as well.
Diagnosis
An MRI is the most effective tool for identifying inflammation in the meninges and for ruling out other spinal conditions that may cause similar clinical signs. A cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis is a critical part of the diagnostic process. A small sample of the fluid is collected and examined for elevated white blood cell counts and protein levels, both of which indicate inflammation and support the diagnosis of SRMA.
In some cases, special blood tests are also performed to help rule out infectious diseases that could mimic SRMA.
Treatment
Treatment of SRMA involves corticosteroids (prednisone), which is used to reduce inflammation and calm the overactive immune system. We typically begin with high doses, followed by a gradual tapering over several months, depending on your dog’s response.
In some cases, if Prednisone alone does not fully control the disease or causes significant side effects, a secondary immunosuppressive medication may be added to help achieve clinical remission and reduce the need for long-term steroid use.
Prognosis
Prognosis for dogs with SRMA is generally very good, especially when the condition is diagnosed early and treated appropriately. Most dogs respond well to corticosteroid therapy and begin showing improvement within just a few days of starting treatment.
With proper management, including regular monitoring and gradual tapering of medications, many dogs achieve long-term remission. However, relapses can occur, particularly if the medication is tapered too quickly or discontinued prematurely. These relapses typically respond well to medication adjustment.
Uncommonly, patients may not respond fully to prednisone alone and require additional long-term immunosuppressive therapy. Even with this, most dogs still do very well with consistent care.