Small mammal polyarteritis nodosa (SPAN) is a rare disorder that affects multiple organs in small mammals, including cats, dogs, mice, and rabbits. SPAN is caused by the presence of a type of bacteria called Mycoplasma haemocanis which leads to inflammation and narrowing of the arteries. This can result in tissue damage due to decreased blood flow and oxygen supply to the affected organs. Symptoms include fever, loss of appetite, weight loss, and vomiting. In some cases, organ failure can occur due to lack of oxygen delivery to the organ.
Diagnosis is typically made through a combination of tests that include laboratory tests such as complete blood count and urinalysis; imaging studies such as CT or MRI scans; and biopsies from affected organs.
Treatment typically includes antibiotics, corticosteroids, and immune-suppressants to reduce inflammation and decrease the risk of organ failure. In some cases, surgery will be recommended if the affected vessels are causing severe blockages.
SPAN is a serious disorder that can be life-threatening if not treated promptly. It’s important for owners of small mammals to be aware of the signs and symptoms of SPAN so that they can get prompt medical attention for their pet if it develops the disorder. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to ensuring a positive outcome for the affected pet.
Symptoms of Small Mammal Polyarteritis Nodosa
- Fever
- Appetite loss
- Weight loss
- Vomiting
- Abdominal pain
- Weakness or lethargy
- Difficulty breathing
- Abnormal heart rate or rhythms
- Bleeding from their mouth, nose, rectum, or skin
- Seizures
It’s important to get prompt medical attention for your pet if you notice any of these signs or symptoms. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to ensure a positive outcome for the affected pet.
Diagnosing Small Mammal Polyarteritis Nodosa
Diagnosing SPAN is typically done with a combination of tests that include laboratory tests such as complete blood count and urinalysis; imaging studies such as CT or MRI scans; and biopsies from affected organs. Treatment typically includes antibiotics, corticosteroids, and immune-suppressants to reduce inflammation and decrease the risk of organ failure. In some cases, surgery will be recommended if the affected vessels are causing severe blockages.
Stages of Small Mammal Polyarteritis Nodosa
Acute Phase Stage:
This is the beginning stage of SPAN and typically occurs within weeks or months after exposure to Mycoplasma haemocanis. Symptoms can include fever, loss of appetite, weight loss, and vomiting.
Subacute phase Stage:
In this stage, symptoms become more severe with additional signs of organ damage. The pet can also develop anemia, kidney failure, and heart arrhythmias.
Chronic phase Stage:
In this stage, the symptoms can become more severe and organ damage could be irreversible. Treatment is typically focused on managing symptoms and preventing further damage.
Treating Small Mammal Polyarteritis Nodosa
Treating SPAN typically includes a combination of antibiotics, corticosteroids, and immune-suppressants to reduce inflammation and decrease the risk of organ failure. In some cases, surgery will be recommended if the affected vessels are causing severe blockages. It’s important to speak with your veterinarian about the best plan for your pet’s specific case.
Preventing Small Mammal Polyarteritis Nodosa
Unfortunately, there is no way to prevent SPAN from occurring. Owners of small mammals should be aware of the signs and symptoms so they can get prompt medical attention for their pet if it develops the disorder. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to ensure a positive outcome for the affected pet.