516
Views
19
CrossRef citations to date
0
Altmetric
Clinical Communication

Use of Magnetic Resonance Imaging in the diagnosis of spinal empyema caused by a migrating grass awn in a dog

, &
Pages 115-118 | Received 13 Apr 2011, Accepted 16 Sep 2012, Published online: 08 Nov 2012
 

Abstract

CASE HISTORY: A 13 kg 3.5-year-old male neutered Cocker Spaniel presented with a 6-day history of deteriorating hindlimb paresis. Approximately 10 weeks previously the owner reported removing a large number of barley grass seeds from the dog's coat and ears. Eight weeks later the dog was treated for pneumonia, based on clinical findings and thoracic radiographs. In the 4 days prior to referral the dog had a decreased appetite, was lethargic and appeared unable to urinate voluntarily.

CLINICAL FINDINGS: The dog was bright and alert but unable to walk. Upper motor neuron signs were indicative of T3–L3 spinal lesion. Using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), an abnormal low signal linear structure within the left T12–T13 neural foramen extending to the left lateral aspects of the thoracic spinal cord was detected, consistent with a foreign body. A left T12–T13 lateral hemilaminectomy was performed and a grass seed removed from a tract extending caudally from the T12–13 space, dorsal to the lumbar transverse processes and the rib head. The dog made a rapid recovery after surgery with full resolution of clinical signs.

DIAGNOSIS: Spinal empyema caused by a migrating barley grass awn (Hordeum spp.).

CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Advanced imaging using MRI can bea valuable method for localising foreign bodies prior to exploratory surgery. Animals presenting with neurological signs should have foreign body reactions included as a differential diagnosis.

Acknowledgements

We would like to thank Southern Veterinary Supplies and Merial-Ancare for their sponsorship of Dr Caroline Whitty as the SVS/Merial Vetspecs Intern.

Log in via your institution

Log in to Taylor & Francis Online

PDF download + Online access

  • 48 hours access to article PDF & online version
  • Article PDF can be downloaded
  • Article PDF can be printed
USD 61.00 Add to cart

Issue Purchase

  • 30 days online access to complete issue
  • Article PDFs can be downloaded
  • Article PDFs can be printed
USD 213.00 Add to cart

* Local tax will be added as applicable

Related Research

People also read lists articles that other readers of this article have read.

Recommended articles lists articles that we recommend and is powered by our AI driven recommendation engine.

Cited by lists all citing articles based on Crossref citations.
Articles with the Crossref icon will open in a new tab.