CRYPTOCOCCOSIS OF THE NERVOUS-SYSTEM IN DOGS, .2. DIAGNOSIS, TREATMENT, MONITORING, AND PROGNOSIS

The diagnostic, therapeutic, and prognostic features of CNS cryptococc osis in dogs are updated using data from 13 new cases and from previou s literature. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) latex agglutination cryptococc al antigen (CRAG) titers may be more sensitive for the diagnosis of CN S cryptococcosis in dogs than CSF cytology, India ink preparation and culture. Cerebrospinal fluid CRAG titers are preferred to serum CRAG t iters which may not reflect the level of CNS infection. Based on limit ed information in dogs and on promising results in other species, itra conazole and fluconazole are recommended for the treatment of CNS cryp tococcosis in dogs. Disease recurrence occurred in three dogs, up to 3 0 months after apparent recovery. In vitro sensitivity testing of cryp tococcal isolates, and monitoring of patients with routine CSF analysi s, CSF culture and CSF CRAG titer may optimize the chances of a cure.