Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Nerve root and nerve swelling from disc herniation in a cat
By Robert Herzig et al.·Published in Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine·2021·Neurology Department, Clinic of Small Animal Surgery Vetsuisse Faculty Zurich, University of Zurich Zurich Switzerland, GB·View original on DOAJ →
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Original publication title: Imaging and histopathologic features of reversible nerve root and peripheral nerve edema secondary to disc herniation in a cat
- Species:
- cat
Plain-English summary
An 8-year-old Oriental Shorthair cat was brought in with sudden weakness in her left leg, likely due to nerve issues from a herniated disc in her spine. An MRI revealed that the herniated disc was pressing on her nerves, causing swelling. The veterinarian performed surgery to remove the disc material, and a biopsy showed that the nerves were swollen but not permanently damaged. After three months, a follow-up MRI showed that her nerves had returned to normal, and she had fully recovered.
People also search for: cat leg weakness · cat herniated disc treatment · cat nerve swelling recovery
Abstract
Abstract Nerve root enlargement with increased contrast uptake has been reported in dogs and humans secondary to nerve root compression. In cats, nerve root enlargement and contrast uptake only have been reported in association with inflammatory and neoplastic diseases, but not as a sequela to nerve root compression. An 8‐year‐old oriental short hair cat was presented with acute neurologic deficits consistent with left‐sided sciatic nerve deficit and possible L6‐S1 myelopathy. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was performed and identified compression of the cauda equina and L7 nerve root associated with intervertebral disc herniation (IVDH) at L6‐L7 as well as widespread sciatic nerve enlargement with moderate rim enhancement. A hemilaminectomy was performed to evacuate herniated disc material. The nerve root was biopsied and submitted for histological evaluation. Interstitial nerve edema was diagnosed. Follow‐up MRI 3 months postoperatively showed complete remission of the changes. Nerve root thickening together with contrast enhancement may represent nerve edema in cats secondary to IVDH.
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Search related cases →Original publication on DOAJ: https://doi.org/10.1111/jvim.16112