Multimodal Diagnosis of Cervical Spinal Cord Compression in a Dog: The Role of Accessible Imaging in Complex Decision-Making
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Abstract
Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) is a leading cause of spinal cord compression in dogs, frequently affecting the cervical region. This case report describes the diagnostic approach and imaging findings in a geriatric Shih-Tzu presenting cervical pain and progressive neurological signs, highlighting the importance of accessible diagnostic tools in clinical routine. Initial clinical evaluation and plain radiography suggested cervical disc involvement, revealing a narrowed intervertebral space at a single segment. Due to the persistence and worsening of clinical signs, myelography was performed in conjunction with cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis, allowing for the exclusion of inflammatory or infectious central nervous system disorders. Myelography revealed two cervical regions with extradural compression. Subsequently, computed tomography (CT) demonstrated three affected cervical intervertebral spaces, including disc extrusion and protrusions with varying degrees of spinal cord compression. Although advanced imaging modalities offer greater diagnostic accuracy, this report demonstrates that contrast radiography and CSF analysis, when correctly indicated and interpreted, remain relevant and viable diagnostic tools in veterinary practice. Despite the confirmation of multifocal cervical IVDD, the owner opted against surgical treatment.
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