Diagnosis of spinal arachnoid cyst using magnetic resonance imaging in a dog

Abstract

A 6-year-old, intact male maltese was presented with hindlimb ataxia of 4 day duration. Physical and neurological examinations revealed a bright, alert, and responsive dog, with no evidence of cranial nerve deficits, conscious proprioceptive deficits. Spinal reflexes of the hind and forelimbs were normal. Patellar, cranial tibial, and withdrawal reflexes were normal. Pain could not be elicited on manipulation of the neck or palpation of the spinal column. Survey radiographs of the vertebral column were unremarkable. Computed tomography (CT) scans in the transverse plane were performed. The results of CT imaging were unremarkable. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in both sagittal and transverse planes was performed. The extent of the lesion was 25 mm in length by 4 mm in thickness. The spinal cord was deviated ventrally and appreared thinner. On T1-weighted and FLAIR images, a discrete hypointense lesion dorsal to the spinal cord was observed at L1-2 which was contiguous with the subarachnoid space. On T2-weighted images, this region was hyperintense, consistent with a fluid-filled structure. The signal intensity of the cysts was equivalent to cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). Surgical treatment involving dorsal laminectomy had successful outcomes. ? 2015, Korean Society of Veterinary Clinics. All rights reserved.