Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Cervical meningomyelocele associated with spina bifida in a hydrocephalic miniature colt.
- Journal:
- Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association
- Year:
- 1996
- Authors:
- Rivas, L J et al.
- Affiliation:
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences · United States
- Species:
- horse
Plain-English summary
A newborn miniature colt was found to have several serious conditions: cervical meningomyelocele (a type of spinal defect), spina bifida (a condition where the spine does not close properly), and hydrocephalus (an accumulation of fluid in the brain). This colt was unable to stand and had a cystic mass on its neck. Tests, including imaging of the brain and spine, confirmed these diagnoses. The fluid from the mass looked like cerebrospinal fluid, and further imaging showed that the spinal cord was herniating through a defect in the spine. These conditions are often linked in other animals, and if a foal shows neurological issues along with a fluid-filled mass, meningomyelocele should be considered. Unfortunately, the outcome for this colt was not mentioned in the study.
Abstract
Cervical meningomyelocele, spina bifida, and hydrocephalus were diagnosed in a newborn miniature colt that was unable to stand and had a cystic mass in the caudal portion of the dorsal cervical region. Results of physical examination and ultrasonographic imaging of the brain supported the diagnosis of hydrocephalus. Results of radiographic evaluation of the vertebral column were consistent with spina bifida at C5-C6. Fluid aspirated from the cervical mass resembled CSF. Radiography of the cervical region after injection of iohexol into the mass revealed herniation of the spinal cord through a large bony defect, supporting the diagnosis of spina bifida and meningomyelocele. Meningomyelocele, spina bifida, and hydrocephalus are interrelated congenital anomalies in other species. Meningomyelocele should be suspected in foals that have neurologic abnormalities, especially if they have other congenital anomalies and a fluid-filled mass along the dorsal midline.
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Search related cases →Original publication: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8790547/