Shar Peis are known for their distinct appearance. Their broad muzzle, wrinkly skin and blue-black tongue attract many owners to this breed of dog. However, people tend to be less familiar with some of the health conditions that Shar Pei can be more prone to suffering from. One of these conditions is ‘Shar Pei recurrent fever syndrome’. We are going to explore this illness in more detail and how you can help your dog if they are affected by it.
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What is Shar Pei recurrent fever syndrome?
Shar Pei recurrent fever syndrome is also known as swollen hock syndrome, Shar Pei auto-inflammatory disease (SPAID), or familial Shar Pei fever syndrome (FSF). As the name implies, dogs suffer from recurrent episodes of fever. This can occur at any age, but often the first flare-up occurs before 18 months. Dogs with this condition will often show the following symptoms during a fever episode –
- A fever of 39.4°C to 41.7°C which can resolve within 12-36 hours
- Swelling of the hocks (ankle joint)
- Swelling of the muzzle
- Abdominal pain
- Vomiting
- Diarrhoea
- Lethargy
Affected dogs may also start to show signs of a secondary problem, chronic kidney disease (CKD). These symptoms may include reduced appetite, changes in thirst, weight loss, vomiting, lethargy and pale gums.
What causes Shar Pei recurrent fever syndrome?
The gene mutation that gives Shar Pei’s their characteristic wrinkly skin can also cause this health condition in some individuals too.
Shar Peis produce an excessive amount of a structural protein called hyaluronan, compared to normal dogs. This extra hyaluronan causes the Shar Pei’s characteristic puffy/padded face and their wrinkles. However, some Shar Peis have a mutation in their genes that also gives rise to the production of poor-quality hyaluronan. This breaks down quickly in the body, causing inflammation which in turn leads to fever (raised body temperature).
During these episodes of fever, inflammatory cytokines (chemical signals) are released by the body which can contribute to the formation of a protein called amyloid. Amyloid is deposited in the dog’s internal organs causing a condition called amyloidosis. When amyloid is deposited in the kidneys it can cause problems with their function, over time leading to kidney failure. Chronic kidney failure is irreversible and can shorten your dog’s life.
Shar Pei recurrent fever syndrome is thought to affect 25% of Shar Pei dogs.
How is the condition diagnosed?
If you take your Shar Pei to the vet with an unexplained fever, then further investigation may be warranted. While Shar Pei recurrent fever syndrome is high on the list of possible differentials, it is worth remembering that many other things that could cause a high temperature in your dog too.
Your vet may start by taking a blood sample to check your dog’s haematology (red and white blood cells) as well as their biochemistry (liver, kidneys, blood sugar, protein levels etc). This may help to screen for other conditions but is also useful to monitor your dog’s organs for signs of amyloidosis.
As well as blood tests, urine samples can be helpful too. Raised protein levels and changes in urine concentration can be an indication of kidney issues. Abdominal imaging may also be advised to rule out other causes of fever but can also be used to look at changes in your pet’s liver or kidneys which may occur as a result of Shar Pei recurrent fever syndrome.
Ultimately, in the absence of any other obvious causes, a diagnosis of Shar Pei recurrent fever syndrome is often made based on the dog’s breed and clinical signs. Genetic testing does not appear to be carried out as routine at the time of writing.
Animals that are suspected to be sufferers of this condition should not be bred from. As there is a genetic component, mutated genes can be passed on to offspring leading them to develop these health problems too. Routine blood and/or urine screens can be helpful to monitor breeding dogs for any early indications of organ dysfunctions, which could start occurring before episodes of fever are first noticed.
What treatment is available?
When a dog is having a fever episode, treatment is largely supportive. This may involve non-steroidal anti-inflammatories to help make your dog feel more comfortable. If their fever is very severe then they could require hospitalisation for intravenous fluids and monitoring. Medication may also be used to counteract any nausea your pet might be feeling.
Longer term, colchicine is sometimes prescribed to treat affected dogs. This drug reduces the amount of amyloid deposited in the liver and kidneys but may also help to reduce the frequency of episodes. Most dogs tolerate this drug well though some may have gastrointestinal side effects.
Corticosteroids (such as prednisolone) may be used in dogs that don’t respond favourably to colchicine, to decrease the frequency of fever episodes.
If your dog already has signs of chronic kidney failure then your vet may suggest a change in diet to help with this, alongside other medications and fluid therapy.
What is the prognosis for dogs with Shar Pei recurrent fever syndrome?
This condition cannot be cured. Dogs that are affected by it can be managed though, with many leading relatively normal lives. But others can develop secondary problems such as chronic kidney failure which can affect their lifespan.
You should discuss any concerns you have about your pet’s health with your vet. They will be able to give you more information about your dog’s condition and advise you further on the ways that they can be monitored.
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