Analysis of Cerebrospinal Fluid Samples in Canine Tick Paralysis: Insights and Implications

Tick paralysis, caused by the salivary neurotoxin of several species of ticks, is a non-infectious neurological syndrome. Its clinical findings are often confused with other acute flaccid paralyses (AFPs). Demographic data and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) examination, along with routine analyses, can be used to increase the index of suspicion for tick paralysis. Thus, this study aims to elucidate neurological manifestations and mechanisms, offering diagnostic insights to enhance understanding of tick paralysis pathophysiology and inform treatment development and prevention. 15 dogs with tick paralysis and AFP findings were included. Anamnestic data were collected for all the dogs, followed by physical examination, complete blood count (CBC), and CSF examinations. It was observed that physical examination, CBC, and CSF analysis results were within reference values. Unexpectedly, despite the non-infectious nature of tick paralysis, Staphylococcus lentus and Aeromonas sobria were detected in three CSF samples. Although these bacteria are not typically associated with tick paralysis, their presence in shepherd dogs was interpreted as contamination from livestock. Consequently, it was noted that comprehensive evaluation of demographic data and other physical and laboratory findings may aid diagnosis in cases of tick paralysis, including atypical cases where ticks cannot be detected. It was concluded that while CSF analysis is diagnostically important for neurological disorders, careful consideration of contamination risk is warranted, especially in shepherd dogs.