Case Study

RAD – Normal pelvis with mild disc space narrowing in a 7 year old FS Manchester Terrier with chronic lameness

This 7 year old FS Manchester Terrier dog presented with right hind lameness of 3 months duration, during which time it seemed to resolve but has now occurred again. Wide base stance on hindlimbs, non painful on manipulation.

Chem: AST slightly increased 69, ALKP low

Image Interpretation

right lateral and VD pelvis – Subtle narrowing of the L3/4 disc space and neuroformainal area is noted when compared with the adjacent ones. All other parameters wnl.

DX

The radiographs do not reveal an underlying cause of the lameness. The coxofemoral and stifle joints are within normal limits.

Outcome

The mild disc space narrowing at L3/4 may be an indirect sign of disc disease. However, the relevance of this change cannot be fully assessed based on radiographs. Only in case of upper or lower motor neuron signs of the hind limbs with actual neurologic deficits, further workup by means of cross sectional imaging may be indicated.