Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 9, 2026
Ferric Chloride-induced Canine Carotid Artery Thrombosis: A Large Animal Model of Vascular Injury
Published on: September 7, 2018
Fibrocartilaginous embolic myelopathy in small animals
Luisa De Risio1, Simon R Platt
1Neurology/Neurosurgery Unit, Centre for Small Animal Studies, Animal Health Trust, Lanwades Park, Kentford, Newmarket, Suffolk, CB8 7UU, UK. luisa.derisio@aht.org.uk
Abstract:
Fibrocartilaginous embolic myelopathy (FCEM) typically results in peracute onset of nonpainful, nonprogressive (after the first 24 hours), and often asymmetric neurologic deficits. Definitive diagnosis can be reached only through histologic examination of the affected spinal cord segments. Although MRI is the preferred diagnostic imaging modality for the antemortem diagnosis of FCEM, it may not show any changes in the first 24 to 72 hours of disease. Severity of neurologic signs at initial examination and extent of the lesions seen on MRI can help predict outcomes in dogs with FCEM.
Insights
Fibrocartilaginous embolic myelopathy (FCEM) causes sudden, nonpainful neurological deficits in dogs. While MRI is useful, diagnosis requires spinal cord examination, and imaging findings can predict outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Neurology
- Spinal Cord Diseases
- Diagnostic Imaging
Background:
- Fibrocartilaginous embolic myelopathy (FCEM) is a neurological condition affecting dogs.
- It typically presents with acute, nonpainful, and often asymmetric neurological deficits.
- FCEM diagnosis is confirmed via histologic examination of spinal cord tissue.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the diagnostic challenges and prognostic indicators for canine FCEM.
- To highlight the role and limitations of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in diagnosing FCEM.
- To correlate clinical signs and MRI findings with patient outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on canine FCEM.
- Analysis of diagnostic imaging techniques, particularly MRI.
- Correlation of clinical presentation and MRI lesion extent with patient prognosis.
Main Results:
- FCEM onset is peracute, with deficits typically nonprogressive after 24 hours.
- MRI is the preferred antemortem diagnostic tool, but may be normal in the first 24-72 hours.
- Neurologic sign severity and MRI lesion extent are predictive of outcome.
Conclusions:
- Definitive FCEM diagnosis relies on histopathology.
- Early MRI may not reveal changes, necessitating careful interpretation.
- Clinical and imaging assessments are crucial for predicting recovery in affected dogs.
