NECROTIZING ENCEPHALITIS IN TWO ARCTIC FOXES (Alopex lagopus): ANTE MORTEM AND POST MORTEM INVESTIGATIONS

摘要

Two unrelated captive-born arctic foxes (Alopex lagopus) developed a similar unusual progressive neurological disease while at the same institution. A 2Yi year-old female developed episodes of abnormal mentation, somnolence, temporary collapse, difficulty to rouse, lack of fear, and aggression. The clinical condition deteriorated over 3 months with loss of body condition and development o'f generalized seizures, ataxia and circling. Cytology of cerebrospinal fluid demonstrated increased proteins andlymphocytic inflammation. Euthanasia was elected. Post mortem examination revealed a severe necrotizing meningo-encephalitis with extensive malacia, mononuclear perivascular cuffing, gliosis and Wallerian degeneration of the most rostral forebrain. The histopathological features suggested a viral etiology. Tests for the most common infectious agents associated with encephalitis in carnivores were negative.