Case Study

CT – Idiopathic geriatric vestibular syndrome in a 14 year old FS Basset mix with normal head CT

This 14 year old FS Basset/Beagle mix dog has a chronic left head tilt. Mild ataxia, horizontal nystagmus OU.

DX

The computed tomography of the head including the ear canals, middle, inner ear and brain is within normal limits

Image Interpretation

CT of the head –

The labyrinth and cohclea of the inner ears, the tympanic bullae and external ear canals are within normal limits. Neither evidence for a current nor for chronic intermittent Otitis is found. The brain is included in the study and does not reveal structural abnormalities. The bony exit of the vestibulocochlear nerves does not reveal any abnormality. The temporomandibular joints and dentition are within normal limits. There are no retrobulbar abnormalities noted.

Outcome

An underlying cause of the described clinical signs cannot be identified. The findings support the possibility of an idiopathic gerinatric vestibular syndrome.
Administer supportive care, ensure proper hydration, blood pressure and perfusion, and treat possible nausea and vomiting.