Spinal neurenteric cyst in a dog

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Neurology
• Comparative Pathology
• Congenital Malformations

Background:

• Neurenteric cysts are rare congenital malformations that can cause spinal cord compression.
• This case highlights a late-onset presentation of a neurenteric cyst in a canine patient.

Observation:

• An 11-year-old English Cocker Spaniel presented with chronic, progressive ataxia of the hind limbs.
• Neurologic examination revealed severe ataxia and decreased proprioception, with pain on lumbar palpation.
• Magnetic resonance imaging showed an extradural spinal cord compression at the L4 lamina.

Findings:

• Histopathology confirmed the extradural mass as a neurenteric cyst.
• The cyst's enlargement, likely due to mucus production, was suspected as the cause of clinical signs.
• Surgical decompression via hemilaminectomy resulted in complete neurologic recovery.

Implications:

• Congenital neurenteric cysts should be considered in the differential diagnosis of extradural spinal masses in dogs.
• Diagnostic imaging findings of extradural masses affecting vertebral structures warrant consideration of this rare condition.
• This case underscores the importance of considering congenital anomalies even in the presence of seemingly neoplastic lesions.