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Spinal dysraphism in a newborn Holstein-Friesian calf
1Ubushi Substation, Teshio Branch of Hokkaido Rumoi Health Centre, Japan.
Veterinary Pathology
|November 24, 1999
Summary
A rare spinal cord defect, spinal dysraphism, was identified in a calf with encephalopathy. This condition involved developmental abnormalities in the cervical spinal cord, impacting nerve fiber organization and the central canal.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Neurology
- Developmental Biology
- Pathology
Background:
- Spinal dysraphism is a congenital condition affecting spinal cord development.
- This case report details a specific presentation in a young Holstein-Friesian calf.
Observation:
- A 3-day-old calf presented with clinical signs of encephalopathy.
- Post-mortem examination revealed spinal dysraphism in the C6-C7 cervical segments, without vertebral defects or arthrogryposis.
Findings:
- Microscopic examination showed hydromyelia and syringomyelia.
- The lesion included an anomalous ventral median fissure and disorganized white matter nerve fibers.
- Absence of the central canal was attributed to ependymal cell developmental defects.
Implications:
- This case expands the understanding of spinal dysraphism presentations in cattle.
- Highlights the importance of considering developmental spinal cord anomalies in neonatal encephalopathy.
- Provides insights into the pathogenesis of ependymal cell-related spinal cord malformations.