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Updated: May 20, 2025
Diagnosis and Surgical Treatment of Human Brucellar Spondylodiscitis
Published on: May 23, 2021
Clinical Features That Increase Suspicion of Brucella canis Infection in Dogs With Discospondylitis: A Multicenter
Courtney M Moeller1, Joseph W Bartges2, Kelsey D Brust3
1School of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Medicine & Epidemiology, University of California-Davis, Davis, California, USA.
Brucella canis discospondylitis in dogs presents with distinct clinical features, including younger age and specific spinal involvement. Early recognition aids in managing this challenging bacterial infection and preventing zoonotic transmission.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Infectious Diseases
- Canine Health
Background:
- Brucella canis is a significant cause of discospondylitis in dogs.
- Brucellosis diagnosis can be difficult, delaying crucial precautions against zoonotic transmission.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify specific clinical indicators differentiating Brucella canis discospondylitis from other causes in dogs.
- To improve early detection and management of canine brucellosis.
Main Methods:
- A multi-institutional retrospective case-control study compared 15 dogs with Brucella canis discospondylitis to 25 controls.
- Clinical, neurological, and radiographic findings were analyzed using conditional logistic regression.
Main Results:
- Brucella canis cases were younger (median 2.6 years) and showed fewer neurologic deficits.
- Higher odds of C2-C5 and multiple disc site involvement were observed in Brucella canis cases.
- Cases had lower odds of neutrophilia but higher median hematocrit and lymphocyte counts.
Conclusions:
- Brucella canis infection should be suspected in canine discospondylitis, irrespective of breeding history or neuter status.
- Specific clinical and hematological findings can increase suspicion for brucellosis in dogs.
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