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Hydrated nucleus pulposus herniation in seven dogs
M L Manunta1, M A Evangelisti1, N Bergknut2
1Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy.
Veterinary Journal (London, England : 1997)
|January 21, 2015
Summary
Hydrated nucleus pulposus extrusion (HNPE) in dogs causes spinal cord compression and neurological deficits. Conservative or surgical treatment led to full recovery and material disappearance in all affected dogs.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Neurology
- Comparative Medicine
- Diagnostic Imaging
Background:
- Hydrated nucleus pulposus extrusion (HNPE) is a condition affecting canine spinal health.
- Understanding HNPE's clinical presentation and diagnostic markers is crucial for effective treatment.
Observation:
- Seven dogs presented with tetraparesis or tetraplegia due to cervical spinal cord compression.
- T2-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) identified extradural hyperintense material consistent with HNPE.
Findings:
- All seven dogs regained ambulatory function within one month post-treatment.
- Conservative management (five dogs) and surgical decompression (two dogs) were both effective.
- Follow-up MRI confirmed complete resolution of extruded material in conservatively treated dogs.
Implications:
- HNPE is a treatable condition in dogs with a favorable prognosis.
- MRI is a valuable tool for diagnosing HNPE and monitoring treatment response.
- Early diagnosis and intervention can prevent long-term neurological damage in affected dogs.
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