Evidence of oligodendrocyte infection and degeneration in canine distemper encephalomyelitis.

Canine distemper encephalomyelitis is an important neurological disease of the dog and is also of comparative medical interest. With some viral strains, demyelinating encephalomyelitis is seen; whether or not oligodendrocyte infection occurs has remained controversial. By examining very early white matter lesions unequivocal oligodendrocyte infection has been identified. Accordingly the direct effect of virus on oligodendrocyte viability must be weighed in considering the pathogenesis of this canine CNS infection.