Havoc, an 18-month-old intact male Siberian Husky, presented to Southeast Veterinary Neurology for progressive rear limb weakness.
Havoc first presented to his primary veterinarian for evaluation of lameness that progressed to weakness and scuffing his rear limbs. Spinal radiographs (X-rays) were performed by his veterinarian, which appeared normal.
When Havoc’s condition continued to decline, he was immediately referred to Southeast Veterinary Neurology (SEVN) for further evaluation. He was evaluated on an emergency basis that same Saturday evening.
During his initial neurologic evaluation, Havoc was bright, alert, responsive, and behaving appropriately. All cranial nerve reflexes and responses were intact. However, there was minimal motor function in the rear limbs. The front limbs appeared normal. Havoc was still able to wag his tail, indicating non-ambulatory paraparesis. Non-ambulatory paraparetic dogs are still able to move their legs and wag their tails, but are not strong enough to support their own weight and walk.
His examination suggested a neurological problem affecting his T3-L3 (mid-back) spinal cord. Possible causes included a slipped disc (most common, but typically painful), a fibrocartilagenous embolism (non-painful, but typically not progressive), meningomyelitis (not a typical breed and often painful), infection (again, often painful), a congenital malformation (he’s young, but not so young as to consider this highly), or cancer (although he is considered quite young for spinal neoplasia).
A CBC and chemistry panel were normal for his age and thoracic radiographs did not show any abnormalities.
Havoc was placed under anesthesia and an MRI of his thoracolumbar spine was performed (pictured below).
