Vertebral Malformation
This disease is characterized by vertebral malformations. Examples include block vertebrae, hemi-vertebrae, or butterfly vertebrae. Neurologic signs occur as a result of spinal cord compression secondary to abnormal vertebral morphology. Compression primarily occurs along the dorsal and lateral aspects of the spinal cord, but can occur anywhere.
Age of Onset: Any age can be affected
Sex Predisposition: Any sex of animal can be affected
Clinical Course:
Variable – may progress over time
Variable – may progress over time
Clinical Signs:
*Clinical signs are dependent on the location of the vertebral malformation
Posture and Appearance
Cervical scoliosis
Cervical torticollis
Movement
Ataxia
Hypermetria
Hyperreflexia
Paresis
Tetraparesis (ambulatory and non-ambulatory)
Proprioception
Proprioceptive deficits
Spinal Reflexes
Hyperreflexive or absent spinal reflexes
Special Functions (e.g. respiration; urination)
Fecal incontinence
Urinary incontinence
Painful Reactions
Cervical hyperesthesia
*Clinical signs are dependent on the location of the vertebral malformation
Posture and Appearance
Cervical scoliosis
Cervical torticollis
Movement
Ataxia
Hypermetria
Hyperreflexia
Paresis
Tetraparesis (ambulatory and non-ambulatory)
Proprioception
Proprioceptive deficits
Spinal Reflexes
Hyperreflexive or absent spinal reflexes
Special Functions (e.g. respiration; urination)
Fecal incontinence
Urinary incontinence
Painful Reactions
Cervical hyperesthesia
Spinal cord
Unknown
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