Major Complications Associated With Cerebrospinal Fluid Collection in 11 Dogs: Clinical Presentation and Imaging...

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Neurology
• Diagnostic Procedures

Background:

• Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) collection is a common diagnostic procedure for dogs with neurological conditions.
• The rate of major complications associated with CSF collection in dogs is not well-established.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the incidence of major complications following CSF collection in dogs at a single referral hospital.
• To characterize the nature and outcomes of these major complications.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective review of 7545 CSF collections performed between 1998 and 2024.
• Identification and analysis of dogs experiencing major complications during or after CSF collection.
• Review of diagnostic imaging (MRI, radiographs) and CSF analysis findings.

Main Results:

• 11 out of 7545 dogs (0.15%) experienced major complications.
• Abnormal mentation and cerebral edema were common in affected dogs prior to CSF collection.
• High mortality rate (8/11 euthanized, 1 died during resuscitation) and significant neurological deficits in survivors.

Conclusions:

• While major complications from CSF collection in dogs are infrequent, they carry a high mortality risk.
• Pre-existing abnormal mentation and evidence of cerebral swelling on MRI are associated with increased complication risk.