First...a Case (Details have been changed for anonymity!)

I evaluated a 3 year old MI Mixed breed dog with a history of acute onset paraparesis after chasing a ball. This dog is an athlete, and he competes at an international level. After acute onset signs, the dog was seen to gradually improve motor and coordination over about 7 days.
Neurologic Examination
Mentation: BAR
Cranial nerves: Normal
Gait: Ambulatory mild right monoparesis, remainder normal
Reflexes: normal including c. trunci and perineal
Postural reactions: absent right pelvic limb only.
Palpation: Non-painful, normal cervical ROM
Neuroanatomic lesion localization? ---> see below for the answer

Differential diagnoses: FCE, Acute non-compressive disc herniation, spinal trauma.
Due to the marked improvement, diagnostic testing such as MRI was not elected. Supportive care with physical therapy, acupuncture, and limiting jumping and other highly impactful activities was recommended. The dog continued to improve and returned to normal.

What are Fibrocartilagenous Emboli (FCE)?

As the name suggests, FCE are pieces of fibrocartilage that run amok, in this case, in the spinal cord vasculature. The material is thought to be part of the nucleus pulposus which somehow gains access to the blood supply around the spinal cord. This is very different from a typical type I disc herniation! How different, you ask? Let's compare...

—-> There is a table here but it wouldn’t copy to the website. Email me for a copy of a comparison between type I, Type II, ANNPE, AHNPE and FCE if you’re interested. (Barnes@barnesveterinaryservices.com)

Neuroanatomic Lesion Localization Answer: T3-L3, right sided.

We have had some really unusual cases this week...Keep them coming! I love working through these tough cases with you and look forward to doing so again. (The not-so-tough ones are also nice...and a nice break from the tough ones!)

Let me know how I can help you, help your patients.