Shar Pei fever

Shar Pei dogs are known for having distinctive deep wrinkles in their skin. It is less well-known that they can also be affected by an inherited autoinflammatory disorder known as Shar Pei Fever (SPF) – also known as Shar Pei hock, Familial Shar-Pei Fever, Swollen Hock Syndrome, and Shar-Pei Autoinflammatory Disease (SPAID).

©The Kennel Club

SPF is an inherited disorder caused by a breed specific genetic mutation that can occur in Chinese Shar-Pei and Shar-Pei mixed breed dogs. The gene mutation affects the regulation of hyaluronan synthesis and is responsible for thickened wrinkled skin (hyaluronosis) and the ‘meatmouth’, padded muzzle. Unfortunately, such Shar Peis are predisposed to autoinflammation. Some Shar Peis have mildly wrinkled skin and a narrow ‘bonemouth’.

Affected Shar Peis may show the following signs:

• Acute onset fever
• Joint swelling
• Recurrent otitis (inflammation affecting the ears), dermatitis
• Loss of appetite, vomiting, weight loss.

The first fever attack usually occurs before the dog reaches 18 months of age. The recurrent bouts of fever typically last between 24 and 36 hours and their temperature may reach 103-107°F. Severe fevers (greater than 105.8°F) require emergency veterinary treatment.

Fever events may be accompanied by periarticular joint swelling +/- joint inflammation, usually affecting the tibiotarsal (or hock) joint. Occasionally the dog may have a swollen, painful muzzle. Affected dogs may show signs of pain or discomfort and loss of appetite with nausea and weight loss.

Other signs are recurrent reddened inflamed ears, skin fragility and other chronic inflammatory disease. Due to this persistent inflammatory state the body deposits a protein called amyloid in the kidneys and other organs. Damage to the kidneys is irreversible, leading to kidney failure and death.

A genetic test is available to determine which dogs are at the highest risk of developing Shar Pei Fever. A blood test or cheek (buccal) swab is needed for the test. The test identifies non-carriers, single carriers and double carriers of an important gene. Single carriers are 4 times more likely to suffer SPF than a non-carrier while double carriers are 8 times more likely.

Your veterinarian may prescribe anti-inflammatory drugs or anti-pyretics to control the fevers and help with any pain and will also monitor your dog’s kidneys for any signs of damage.

If your Shar Pei has a fever greater than 105.8°F, contact your veterinarian immediately. Your dog will need emergency care including intravenous fluid therapy and medication to reduce its temperature.

Unfortunately, as it is an inherited condition, there is no cure. Affected dogs should not be bred from. If you buy a Shar Pei from a breeder, make sure the breeding line is free from the mutation.

Colchicine has been used to treat renal amyloidosis in people and, anecdotally, has reduced the frequency and severity of fever episodes in dogs with Shar Pei fever. However, the evidence base supporting the use of colchicine remains limited and it can have toxic side-effects in some dogs (most commonly gastrointestinal signs). Your veterinarian will discuss this option with you to see if it may be appropriate for your dog.