Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Atlantooccipital overlap and neck abnormalities in dogs explained
By Loughin, Catherine A & Marino, Dominic J·Published in The Veterinary clinics of North America. Small animal practice·2016·Department of Surgery, United States·View original on PubMed →
PetCaseFinder translated the abstract of this peer-reviewed paper into plain English so pet owners can read it. We do not publish original research — every detail traces back to the citation above. How we work →
Original publication title: Atlantooccipital Overlap and Other Craniocervical Junction Abnormalities in Dogs.
- Species:
- dog
Plain-English summary
A dog with neck pain and other neurological symptoms was diagnosed with a craniocervical junction abnormality (CJA), which can include issues like atlantooccipital overlap. To fully assess the problem, the veterinarian used MRI and CT imaging. While some dogs may improve with medication, most require surgery to address the condition effectively. After surgery, many dogs experience relief from pain and improved mobility.
People also search for: dog neck pain treatment · craniocervical junction abnormalities in dogs · atlantooccipital overlap surgery · dog neurological symptoms · dog MRI for neck issues
Abstract
The term craniocervical junction abnormality (CJA) is an umbrella term for a variety of malformations that occur in the craniocervical region. These abnormalities include Chiari-like malformation, atlantooccipital overlapping, atlantoaxial instability, occipitoatlantoaxial malformations, atlantoaxial dural bands, and dens abnormalities. Syringomyelia can occur secondary to any of these malformations or a combination. Clinical signs in dogs with a CJA typically include neck pain and varying signs associated with a cervical myelopathy. MRI of CJAs with computed tomography imaging is necessary for a full evaluation. Some dogs with CJAs respond to medical management, but for most surgery is the treatment of choice.
Find similar cases for your pet
PetCaseFinder finds other peer-reviewed reports of pets with the same symptoms, plus a plain-English summary of what was tried across them.
Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26631588/