Fibrocartilaginous embolism in the dog

Eighteen dogs with acute neurological symptoms suggestive of ischaemic myelopathy are described. A presumptive diagnosis of spinal parenchymal infarction, due to fibrocartilaginous embolism (FCE), was made in 16 cases. This was confirmed by histological examination post mortem in the remainder. Clinical neurological parameters were the most reliable prognostic indicators following FCE. High dose corticosteroid therapy should be administered as soon as possible to influence the secondary pathophysiological reaction in such cases. Only one dog made a complete neurological recovery, however nine returned to normal activity with-out regaining normal neurological function. Eight dogs required euthanasia.