Robert Shiel

SIR, — Non-suppurative meningoencephalitis of greyhounds has been observed relatively commonly in Ireland in recent years (Callanan and others 2002). Despite extensive investigation, the underlying cause of this disorder has not been identified (Daly and others 2006). We have obtained funding to undertake further investigations into potential causes of this disorder and would appreciate help in identifying new cases.

Typically, animals are young (less than one year old) and often more than one littermate is affected. A rapid onset of neurological signs such as circling, ataxia, head tilt, aggression, vocalisation and/or blindness is most typical; however, a slower onset of vague signs, including dullness and stumbling, has also been observed. The condition is progressive and fatal. There are no pathognomonic clinical, haematological or biochemical changes, and the diagnosis is based on histopathology of nervous tissue

If colleagues identify possible cases of greyhound meningoencephalitis, we would be grateful if they could contact us at the address below or by telephone or e-mail. Robert Shiel, telephone + 353 (0)1 716 6000, e-mail: robert.shiel@ucd.ie, Sean Callanan, telephone + 353 (0)1 716 6152, e-mail: sean.callanan@ucd.ie