Tethered Cord Syndrome
Tethered cord syndrome can be a congenital or acquired condition where there is abnormal positioning or traction of the caudal spinal cord and meninges. Tethered cord syndrome is often associated with other congenital abnormalities such as spinal bifida, meningomyeloceles, myeloschysis, and dermoid sinus. Although the pathophysiology is poorly understood, it is suspected to cause excessive traction on the conus medullaris and associated spinal nerve roots leading to neurologic dysfunction.
Age of Onset: Any age can be affected
Sex Predisposition: Any sex of animal can be affected
Clinical Course:
Clinical signs may be inapparent or intermittent, depending on changes in position.
Clinical signs may be inapparent or intermittent, depending on changes in position.
Clinical Signs:
Posture and Appearance
Low tail carriage
Movement
Pelvic limb weakness or lameness
Mild paraparesis
Proprioception
Proprioceptive deficits in the pelvic limbs
Spinal Reflexes
Reduced withdrawal reflexes in the pelvic limbs
Special Functions (e.g. respiration; urination)
Urinary incontinence
Fecal incontinence
Muscle Atrophy
Recued tail tone
Pain Sensation
Pain on lumbosacral palpation
Pain on extension of the tail and hips
Posture and Appearance
Low tail carriage
Movement
Pelvic limb weakness or lameness
Mild paraparesis
Proprioception
Proprioceptive deficits in the pelvic limbs
Spinal Reflexes
Reduced withdrawal reflexes in the pelvic limbs
Special Functions (e.g. respiration; urination)
Urinary incontinence
Fecal incontinence
Muscle Atrophy
Recued tail tone
Pain Sensation
Pain on lumbosacral palpation
Pain on extension of the tail and hips
L4-S3 spinal cord or cauda equina
Unknown
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