Clinical and magnetic resonance aspect in mielomalacia in dogs - 6 cases

Abstract

Mielomalacia in dogs is a condition characterized by the softening or degeneration of the spinal cord tissue. Both clinical and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) aspects are crucial for diagnosing and understanding myelomalacia in dogs. The clinical presentation of the cases vary depending on the location and severity of spinal cord damage. Common clinical symptoms include weakness or paralysis in one or more limbs, loss of coordination, difficulty walking, pain, changes in posture, altered reflexes, such as exaggerated or diminished reflex responses and in severe cases, loss of bowel or bladder control. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a key diagnostic tool for assessing myelomalacia in dogs. MRI provides detailed images of the spinal cord and surrounding structures, offering valuable insights into the condition. On MRI scans, myelomalacia presents as a localized area of softening/tissue damage within the spinal cord. These areas often appear as regions of hyperintensity on T2 images, indicating lesion of spinal cord tissue