PRESUMPTIVE DIAGNOSIS OF SPINA BIFIDA IN CANINE PATIENT

Authors

  • Amanda Lorene Rabelo Presidente Antônio Carlos University : Conselheiro Lafaiete, Minas Gerais, BR
  • Felipe Gaia de Sousa Federal University of Minas Gerais - UFMG, Belo Horizonte/MG, Brazil. https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5078-7820
  • Suzane Lilian Beier Federal University of Minas Gerais - UFMG, Belo Horizonte/MG, Brazil. https://orcid.org/0000-0002-7352-5145

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.35172/rvz.2023.v30.1119

Keywords:

bone malformation, congenital alteration, locomotor alteration

Abstract

 The aim of this report is to describe a presumptive diagnosis of spina bifida in a mixed breed dog, due to previous diagnostic inconsistencies. Spina bifida is an uncommon congenital anomaly characterized by poor bone formation due to incomplete closure or the absence of the dorsal arch of the vertebral structure during the process of embryogenesis. Animals with this condition may have difficulties in the locomotion process, which constantly threatens the quality and survival of those affected. Spina bifida can present itself in four different forms and to varying degrees. A 5-month-old mixed breed dog was seen at a veterinary clinic in Conselheiro Lafaiete/MG with difficulties in the locomotion process and previous diagnostic inconsistencies in other veterinary services. On physical examination, he had kyphosis in the thoracic region and decreased proprioceptive capacity in the hind limbs. After radiographs were taken, morphological thoracic alterations were observed in the segment between the T5 to T9 vertebrae, with duplicated spinous processes and a decrease in the dimensions of the intervertebral space. The radiographic examination suggested presumptive evidence of thoracic spina bifida due to the unavailability of the tutor to perform more sensitive exams such as tomography and magnetic resonance. Therefore, drugs for pain and neuropathic control such as gabapentin and pregabalin were prescribed, at different times, until new recommendations, which have shown therapeutic efficacy to the patient. Currently, the patient uses a wheelchair adapted for locomotion due to the loss of movement of the hind limbs, in addition to weekly physical therapy follow-up and acupuncture sessions.

Author Biographies

Amanda Lorene Rabelo, Presidente Antônio Carlos University : Conselheiro Lafaiete, Minas Gerais, BR

Department of Veterinary Medicine, Presidente Antônio Carlos University : Conselheiro Lafaiete, Minas Gerais, Brasil

Felipe Gaia de Sousa, Federal University of Minas Gerais - UFMG, Belo Horizonte/MG, Brazil.

Department of Veterinary Clinic and Surgery, Veterinary School, Federal University of Minas Gerais – UFMG, Brazil.

Suzane Lilian Beier, Federal University of Minas Gerais - UFMG, Belo Horizonte/MG, Brazil.

Department of Veterinary Clinic and Surgery, Veterinary School, Federal University of Minas Gerais – UFMG, Brazil.

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Published

2023-05-04

How to Cite

1.
Lorene Rabelo A, Gaia de Sousa F, Lilian Beier S. PRESUMPTIVE DIAGNOSIS OF SPINA BIFIDA IN CANINE PATIENT. RVZ [Internet]. 2023 May 4 [cited 2024 Dec. 4];30:1-10. Available from: https://rvz.emnuvens.com.br/rvz/article/view/1119

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Section

Case Reports

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