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:
Posture and Appearance
Scoliosis
Movement
Ataxia
Hyperreflexia
Paresis
Tetraparesis (ambulatory and non-ambulatory)
Proprioception
Proprioceptive deficits
Spinal Reflexes
Reflexes may be reduced or normal/increased depending on the location of the lesion
Special Functions (e.g. respiration; urination)
Fecal incontinence
Urinary incontinence
Painful Reactions
Possible hyperesthesia on palpation of the vertebral column over the affected area
Posture and Appearance
Scoliosis
Movement
Ataxia
Hyperreflexia
Paresis
Tetraparesis (ambulatory and non-ambulatory)
Proprioception
Proprioceptive deficits
Spinal Reflexes
Reflexes may be reduced or normal/increased depending on the location of the lesion
Special Functions (e.g. respiration; urination)
Fecal incontinence
Urinary incontinence
Painful Reactions
Possible hyperesthesia on palpation of the vertebral column over the affected area
Spinal cord- variable
Unknown
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