Spina Bifida, Meningomyelocele, and Meningocele

Abstract

Spina bifida with or without meningocele or meningomyelocele is encountered infrequently in small animal practice. The English bulldog and Manx cat are breeds predisposed. Although often silent clinically, in those animals with clinical signs, it is important to recognize the signs early and to understand the appropriate imaging modalities employed in establishing a diagnosis. In a select population of affected animals, proposed surgical intervention may be considered to prevent neurologic decline, prevent secondary complications, and potentially improve outcomes.

Keywords: Congenital malformation; Meningocele; Meningomyelocele; Neural tube defect; Spina bifida.