MRI and CT findings of compressive cervical myelopathy in a dog with suspected immune‐mediated polyarthritis presenting with tetraparesis

Abstract

AbstractAn 11‐month‐old, male, entire Great Dane dog presented with acute‐onset non‐ambulatory tetraparesis. Three months before presentation, the dog was treated for a suspected dog bite injury. Examination revealed pyrexia (39.7°C) and marked multiple joint swelling, with cervicalgia and non‐ambulatory tetraparesis. Based on clinicopathological findings and diagnostic imaging, a diagnosis of type II immune‐mediated polyarthritis was reached. The tetraparesis was investigated using magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography, allowing the identification of compressive cranial cervical myelopathy secondary to severe occipitoatlantoaxial joint and multiple facet joint distension. The patient was initially treated with antimicrobial therapy with resolution of the pyrexia. Given the persistent severe multiple joint swelling and tetraparesis, immunosuppressive therapy was started. Due to refractory disease and poor prognosis, euthanasia was elected 97 days following presentation. To the authors’ knowledge, compressive cervical myelopathy associated with immune‐mediated polyarthritis has not been previously reported in the veterinary literature.