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Discospondylitis associated with three unreported bacteria in the dog
1Centro Medico Veterinario Villa San Francesco, Bagni di Tivoli, Roma, Italy.
The Journal of Small Animal Practice
|August 2, 2001
Summary
Three dogs with discospondylitis experienced severe neurological impairment due to novel bacterial causes: Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Enterococcus faecalis, and Staphylococcus epidermidis. Surgical intervention led to satisfactory neurological recovery in all affected dogs.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Neurology
- Canine Infectious Diseases
- Bacteriology
Background:
- Discospondylitis is a common spinal infection in dogs.
- The causative agents are typically Staphylococcus species, but others have been reported.
Observation:
- Three dogs presented with discospondylitis.
- Neurological deficits were severe, including paraplegia and tetraplegia.
- Two dogs had no deep pain sensation in their pelvic limbs.
Findings:
- Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Enterococcus faecalis, and Staphylococcus epidermidis were identified as causative agents.
- These bacteria represent new causes of discospondylitis in dogs.
- Surgical treatment resulted in significant neurological improvement.
Implications:
- Broadens the spectrum of known bacterial pathogens causing canine discospondylitis.
- Highlights the importance of identifying specific bacteria for targeted treatment.
- Demonstrates the efficacy of surgical management for severe neurological cases.