Application of xenogeneic anti-canine distemper virus antibodies in treatment of canine distemper puppies

OBJECTIVE : The clinical feasibility of passive immunotherapy has not been demonstrated in dogs naturally infected with canine distemper. In this study, porcine anti-canine distemper virus IgG and F(ab')(2) antibody fragments were used to treat infected puppies. METHODS : A total of 41 naturally infected puppies (age <= six months) exhibiting severe respiratory signs, but lacking neurological signs, were enrolled in the study. Twenty-five puppies were treated with a combination of IgG or F(ab')(2) antibody fragments (Group 1) and supportive therapy and 16 puppies received routine supportive care only (Group 2). RESULTS : The survival rate of dogs in Group 1 (19/25; 76%) was significantly higher than that in Group 2 (5/16; 31.3%) (P < 0.05). During the therapy, 8 of the 25 dogs (32%) in Group 1 developed neurological signs versus 12 of the 16 dogs (75%) in Group 2 (P < 0.05). Adverse reactions were limited to elevated body temperature in dogs that received IgG antibodies. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE : Porcine anti-canine distemper virus antibodies improved survival in puppies affected with canine distemper with minimal adverse effects. Therefore, this therapy could be considered for treatment of endangered animal species infected with canine distemper virus.