Authors : Yalcin Devecioglu, Ebru Eravci, Alper Demirutku, Oktay Duzgun, Zihni Mutlu and Dilek Olgun Erdikmen
Abstract: Direct spinal radiography and myelography are primary diagnostic techniques used to visualize the vertebral column in dogs. Although, the location of the lesion can be identified with myelography, this is not sufficient for the interpretation of its aethiology. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), on the other hand is a non-invasive method used to visualize the central nervous system. It has exceeded myelography in visualizing intervertebral disc diseases and intra-spinal lesions. In addition, to revealing the localization of spinal cord tumours it also gives clues regarding their character. In this study, cervical magnetic resonance images of 30 dogs with suspected cervical myelopathy were evaluated in transversal and sagittal T2-focused cross-sections with contrast agent and T1-focused cross-sections without any contrast. Findings were then compared to myelography images. Magnetic resonance images revealed intervertebral disc hernia in 15 dogs, intramedullary mass in 5 dogs, intradural extramedullary mass in 3 dogs, extradural mass in 1 dog, an epidural abscess in 1 dog, transverse myelitis in 1 dog and syringomyelia in 4 dogs. Although, the myelography imaging technique aids in determining the localization of a lesion in the cervical spinal region, magnetic resonance imaging is used for definitive diagnosis of specific lesions.
Yalcin Devecioglu, Ebru Eravci, Alper Demirutku, Oktay Duzgun, Zihni Mutlu and Dilek Olgun Erdikmen, 2013. Myelography and Magnetic Resonance Imaging Findings of Neurological Lesions in the Cervical Region in Dogs. Journal of Animal and Veterinary Advances, 12: 972-976.