Canine sciatic and gluteal lymph nodes can be identified with computed tomography.

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Anatomy
• Diagnostic Imaging
• Canine Medicine

Background:

• Sciatic and gluteal lymph nodes are documented in various species but historically considered absent in dogs.
• Recent observations suggest structures resembling these lymph nodes in canine abdominopelvic CT scans.
• Their presence may impact prognosis and treatment strategies for canine abdominopelvic conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To ascertain the prevalence and characteristics of sciatic and gluteal lymph nodes in dogs using computed tomography (CT).

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of abdominopelvic CT images from 121 dogs.
• Consensus assessment by two readers to determine the presence or absence of sciatic and gluteal lymph nodes.
• Measurement of identified lymph nodes.

Main Results:

• Sciatic lymph nodes were identified in 19 out of 121 dogs (15.7% prevalence), either unilaterally or bilaterally.
• Bilateral gluteal lymph nodes were found in one dog (0.8% prevalence).

Conclusions:

• The study confirms the presence of sciatic and gluteal lymph nodes in a subset of the canine population.
• Recognizing these lymph nodes is vital for accurate staging of abdominopelvic disease in dogs.
• Identification aids in assessing disease spread and informs therapeutic planning for canine patients.