Fibrocartilaginous embolic myelopathy in small animals

Abstract

Fibrocartilaginous embolic myelopathy (FCEM) typically results in peracute onset of nonpainful, nonprogressive (after the first 24 hours), and often asymmetric neurologic deficits. Definitive diagnosis can be reached only through histologic examination of the affected spinal cord segments. Although MRI is the preferred diagnostic imaging modality for the antemortem diagnosis of FCEM, it may not show any changes in the first 24 to 72 hours of disease. Severity of neurologic signs at initial examination and extent of the lesions seen on MRI can help predict outcomes in dogs with FCEM.