INTRATHECAL PRODUCTION OF BORRELIA-BURGDORFERI - SPECIFIC ANTIBODIES IN A DOG WITH CENTRAL-NERVOUS-SYSTEM LYME BORRELIOSIS

A case of canine central nervous system Lyme disease is described in a six-year-old, neutered male rottweiller. The dog presented with acute gastric dilatation-volvulus syndrome, which had been preceded by a one-week history of behavioral changes, including aggression, increased appetite, and depression. After surgery, a generalized seizure disorder developed; the disorder was unresponsive to anticonvulsant medication. Although serotesting was negative for Borrelia-specific antibodies, a cerebrospinal fluid titer was positive. The demonstration of intrathecal synthesis of anti-B. burgdorferi antibodies is considered to be strong evidence that invasion of the central nervous system by the spirochete was responsible for neurologic disease in the patient. This article discusses possible causes of seronegativity. Dogs suspected of having Lyme neuroborreliosis should be treated with an antispirochetal agent that is capable of achieving therapeutic concentrations in the cerebrospinal fluid.