Spinal subarachnoid diverticula in dogs: A review
Casey J Smith1, Julien Guevar1
1Department of Medical Sciences, University of Madison-Wisconsin School of Veterinary Medicine, 2015 Linden Drive, Madison, Wisconsin 53706, USA (Smith); Division of Clinical Neurology Vetsuisse-Faculty, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland (Guevar).
The Canadian Veterinary Journal = La Revue Veterinaire Canadienne
|November 5, 2020
Summary
Spinal subarachnoid diverticula in dogs can cause neurological issues, often seen in specific breeds. Surgical treatment generally yields better outcomes than medical management for this condition.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Neurology
- Comparative Medicine
Background:
- Spinal subarachnoid diverticula (SSD) are dilations of the subarachnoid space causing compressive myelopathy in dogs.
- These lesions commonly occur in high-motion spinal areas, particularly the cervical and caudal thoracic regions.
- Congenital or acquired factors are suspected in SSD etiopathogenesis, with Pugs, French Bulldogs, and Rottweilers being predisposed breeds.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the clinical presentation, diagnosis, and treatment outcomes of spinal subarachnoid diverticula in dogs.
- To highlight the diagnostic advantages of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for spinal cord evaluation.
- To discuss the current understanding of surgical versus medical management and long-term prognosis.
Main Methods:
- Literature review focusing on canine spinal subarachnoid diverticula.
- Analysis of diagnostic imaging modalities, emphasizing MRI.
- Evaluation of treatment outcomes, comparing surgical and medical interventions.
Main Results:
- Clinical signs include ataxia, paresis, and incontinence; pain is less frequent.
- Advanced imaging, especially MRI, is crucial for diagnosis due to detailed spinal cord visualization.
- Surgical intervention shows better outcomes than medical therapy, though long-term data is limited.
Conclusions:
- Spinal subarachnoid diverticula represent a significant cause of myelopathy in certain dog breeds.
- MRI is the preferred diagnostic tool for accurate assessment.
- While surgery offers better outcomes, recurrence is possible, and long-term results, particularly in Pugs, require further investigation.
