Glioma in brachycephalic dogs: late-onset seizures
9-year-old Boxer with no previous history presenting with its first generalised seizure; in the following weeks the owner notices it is duller and bumps into objects on its right side. MRI shows an intra-axial lesion in the left frontotemporal lobe with little contrast enhancement.
Which neoplasm is most likely?
chevron_right Show answer and explanation
A. Glioma (oligodendroglioma or astrocytoma)
Correct. Gliomas are intra-axial tumours with a clear predisposition in brachycephalic breeds (Boxer, French and English Bulldog, Boston Terrier). Options are surgery if accessible, radiotherapy, or palliative corticosteroids and antiepileptics; the prognosis is guarded.
B. Meningioma
It is the most common primary intracranial tumour in dogs overall, but it is extra-axial and more associated with dolichocephalic breeds; this lesion is intra-axial.
C. Haemangiosarcoma metastasis
Brain metastases do occur, but they are usually multiple and haemorrhagic; with a single lesion in a Boxer, glioma is much more likely.
D. Choroid plexus papilloma
It is an intraventricular tumour that often causes obstructive hydrocephalus; it does not fit a lesion in the frontotemporal lobe parenchyma.
lightbulb Key takeaway
A dog with seizure onset after 5–6 years of age has a high probability of a structural cause: perform MRI before labelling it idiopathic epilepsy. In brachycephalic breeds think of glioma; in dolichocephalic breeds and cats, meningioma.
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Updated: October 31, 2026 · Educational content for veterinary professionals. It does not replace current clinical guidelines or the judgement of the attending veterinarian.