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
Kyphosis
Scoliosis
Movement
Ataxia
Hypermetria
Hyperreflexia
Paresis
Proprioception
Proprioceptive deficits
Spinal Reflexes
Hyperreflexive or absent spinal reflexes
Special Functions (e.g. respiration; urination)
Fecal incontinence
Urinary incontinence
Painful Reactions
Possible hyperesthesia on palpation over the area of the affected vertebral column
*Clinical signs are dependent on the location of the vertebral malformation
Posture and Appearance
Kyphosis
Scoliosis
Movement
Ataxia
Hypermetria
Hyperreflexia
Paresis
Proprioception
Proprioceptive deficits
Spinal Reflexes
Hyperreflexive or absent spinal reflexes
Special Functions (e.g. respiration; urination)
Fecal incontinence
Urinary incontinence
Painful Reactions
Possible hyperesthesia on palpation over the area of the affected vertebral column
Spinal cord
Unknown
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