key: cord-0014332-7guauqra
authors: nan
title: PROCEEDINGS 32nd Symposium ESVN‐ECVN WROCLAW, POLAND 12th‐14th September 2019: Selected research communications of the 32nd Symposium of the ESVN‐ECVN Wroclaw, Poland 12th to 14th September 2019
date: 2020-10-09
journal: J Vet Intern Med
DOI: 10.1111/jvim.15875
sha: f708c03d8c8d4b7c93d9d5da0eaa8e0d176cb95c
doc_id: 14332
cord_uid: 7guauqra

nan

Fourteen sites of discospondylitis were identified in thirteen cats, with the L7-S1 intervertebral disc space (IVDS) being affected in 7/14 of cases.

Characteristic MRI features included a hyperintense nucleus pulposus signal on T2-weighted (T2W) (10/14) and short tau inversion recovery (STIR) (11/13) with contrast-enhancement in all (11/11), involvement of adjacent vertebral endplates (11/14), hyperintense neighboring soft tissue on T2W (11/14) and STIR (10/13) with contrast-enhancement in all (11/11) and presence of spondylosis deformans (10/14). Other features included narrowed or collapsed IVDS (11/14), contrastenhancement of vertebral bodies (5/11), epidural space involvement (5/14) , compression of the spinal cord or nerve roots (5/14) , paraspinal abscessation (3/14), megacolon (5/14) and meningeal signal intensity abnormalities with contrast-enhancement that could indicate secondary focal meningitis (5/6).

Radiographs were available covering five sites (in 4 cats) and CT covering three sites (in 2 cats). Most common radiological features were collapse or narrowing of the affected IVDS (4/5) and endplate erosion (3/5) . No changes suggestive of discospondylitis were identifiable on radiography or CT in two sites (1 cat) despite being identifiable on MRI. Repeated radiography in one case did not reveal complete radiological resolution following nine months of treatment.

The results of this study indicate consistent MRI features that should be considered in the diagnosis of feline discospondylitis.

[O3]

A homozygous 7-BP deletion of GDF7 associated with feline forebrain commissural malformation concurrent with ventriculomegaly and interhemispheric cysts

ation. The precise function of dystrophin in the brain remains poorly understood.

The expression pattern and role of dystrophin in canine muscle is relatively well characterized, however, its role in the canine brain has not been investigated, nor have the consequences of dystrophin deficiency on canine cognitive function. Here we hypothesized that deltaE50-Muscular Dystrophy dogs (that carry a splice site mutation that results in deletion of exon 50 in mature dystrophin transcripts) have defective cognitive function.

Using RNAScope and immunostaining techniques we can detect dystrophin in the normal canine brain at cellular and subcellular levels and have verified its expression in the cerebellar cortex, hippocampus and cerebral cortex. Using a battery of tests to assess cognitive function, our current data show that, compared to litter mate controls, deltaE50-MD dogs have reduced attentiveness and motivation, reduced exploration of novel objects and increased anxiety-like behavior.

This study provides novel information on the expression and function of dystrophin in the canine brain, with insight into the link between dystrophin deficiency and cognitive deficits. Ethical approval for this study was obtained from the Institution's Ethics and Welfare

Committee.

[O5]

Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation: A potential novel treatment option for canine drug resistant epilepsy M. Charalambous 1 , L. Van Ham 1 , B. J. G. Broeckx 2 , S. F. M. Bhatti 1 1 Constrictive myelopathy has been described in pugs, characterized by fibrous connective and granulation tissue of the dura mater causing spinal cord compression and focal gliosis. Its association with articular facet dysplasia is suspected; however, some studies have reported articular dysplasia as an incidental finding. The imaging appearance of constrictive myelopathy is currently limited to a small number of cases, the majority described by computed tomography myelogram.

The aim of this study was to describe in detail the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) characteristics of presumptive constrictive myelopathy in pugs and its associated clinical signs. This study describes specific MRI features of pugs with presumptive constrictive myelopathy, which appears to be a consequence of chronic micromotion, and differs from other conditions as subarachnoid diverticula. Our results may help in diagnosing and consequently treating this condition, which may warrant vertebral stabilization.

[O11]

Magnetic resonance spectroscopy for quantifying the brain regional biochemistry in vivo in murine model of human glioma was performed for two voxels (2.5x2.5x2.5 mm each). Spectra were analyzed with LCModel.

We found substantial and statistically significant changes in the level of choline, creatinine and N-acetyl aspartate between healthy and tumor bearing hemisphere. Those changes might be related to increased membrane turnover in the tumor core, reduced tissue metabolism and loss, dysfunction or displacement of normal neuronal tissue. Obtained data are notably consistent with findings in patients with glioma and might be used as criteria for evaluation of the response to experimental treatment. Study was approved by the Local Ethics Committee.

[O12]

Neurotransmitter concentrations in urine associated with the consumption of a medium-chain triglyceride (MCT) supplement in dogs with idiopathic epilepsy Medium-chain-triglyceride (MCT) as add-on management of canine epilepsy has been associated with positive effect on seizure control, cognition and behavior in dogs with idiopathic epilepsy (IE). At present, the exact mechanisms leading to the anti-epileptic and/or antiseizure properties has not yet been fully elucidated. More research is needed to understand the mechanism of action of MCT.

A 6-month multi-centre, prospective, randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled cross-over trial was conducted, comparing a 9%

MCT appeared not significantly different.

In summary, these data show altered levels of neurotransmitter concentrations in urine associated with MCT-DS consumption when compared to control-DS. Therefrom, initial evidence is given, that the efficacy of the MCTs as a nutritive, therapeutic option for a subpopulation of epileptic dogs might be associated with metabolic induced changes of neurotransmitter concentrations. Membranous abnormalities, particularly affecting the triad, have been documented in CNM affected dogs and explain the paresis seen clinically.

We aimed to develop a novel CNM model in embryonic zebrafish.

Orthologues of mammalian HACD1-4 were identified and their expression evaluated in developing and mature zebrafish muscle using conventional and quantitative RT-PCR and in situ hybridization. We confirmed hacd1 as the major HACD enzyme in zebrafish muscle with expression strongly upregulated during myogenesis as seen in mammals. CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing was used to introduce mutations into hacd1 and a muscle phenotype was observed in F 0 embryos including abnormal tail morphology, motor function and disorganized myofibres with abnormal RYR1 immunostaining.

In conclusion, these findings indicate an evolutionarily conserved, but incompletely elucidated, role for HACD1 and VLCFA in muscle. We have generated a relevant model of HACD1-CNM in zebrafish embryos which recapitulates features of the myopathic phenotype from affected dogs. This will be a valuable asset for future research to study the roles of HACD enzymes in muscle development and disease and the pathogenesis of HACD1-associated myopathies.

[O14]

Spontaneous remission in feline acquired myasthenia gravis without associated co-existing disease

Thomas Mignan 1 , Laurent S. Garosi 2 , Mike Targett 3 , Mark Lowrie 1 1 suggested primary and disseminated CNS HS have distinct breed predispositions and primary tumors are characterized by inflammation within the CSF compartment. Cancer, inflammation and the immune system have a complex relationship with mediators and cellular effectors of inflammation having both anti and pro-tumor effects.

A retrospective, whole genome trascriptomic analysis of archived, frozen primary CNS HS, disseminated non CNS HS and meningioma (n = 39) was done using RNASeq. Differentially expressed genes, compared to normal cerebral cortex, were defined involving inflammatory and immune modulatory pathways, and potential therapeutic targets.

Primary CNS HS was characterized by upregulation of inflammatory pathway genes including targetable pro-tumor, inflammatory markers TNFa, and IL1b (P < 0.001), and potential immunosuppressive markers including TGFb and immune check point proteins including PD1, IDO1, TIGIT and CTLA4 (all P < 0.001). Inflammatory markers were upregulated in meningioma and disseminated HS, however at a significantly lower level than primary CNS HS. Immune checkpoint proteins

were not differentially expressed in meningiomas. More than 100 genes were > 60-fold differentially expressed in CNS HS compared to meningioma.

Primary CNS HS is characterized by inflammatory and immune modulatory pathway gene expression consistent with clinico-pathological findings. Data support the investigation of novel therapeutic strategies including checkpoint protein inhibition in this currently untreatable tumor. Differentially expressed genes may provide potential biomarkers for differentiation of primary CNS HS and meningioma.

[O17]

Magnetic resonance imaging of hypersynchronized neuronal brain activity in epileptic dogs Idiopathic epilepsy (IE) is one of the most frequent neurological diseases in dogs. In most dogs, no structural changes can be detected in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and the pathomechanism of IE is largely uncovered. Recently, a novel MRI sequence has been developed to visualize interictal epileptiform discharges by using a phasecycled stimulus-induced rotary saturation approach (pc-SIRS) with spin-lock preparation.

Aim of this study was to investigate whether the pc-SIRS is able to visualizing hypersynchronized neuronal brain activity in epileptic dogs with IE.

In this prospective, ethical approved study twelve dogs with a history of epileptic seizures before start of medical treatment or nonresponsive to treatment without structural brain abnormalities or alterations in blood or cerebrospinal fluid sample were included in the group of IE. The control group consisted of five dogs without a history of seizures. All dogs underwent MRI examination of the brain in a 3 T magnet and a pc-SIRS sequence.

The pc-SIRS showed hypersynchronized neuronal brain activity in the interictal period in 11 dogs with IE and one dog without epileptic seizures. The pc-SIRS had a sensitivity of 91.7% and a specificity of 75% to visualize interictal hypersynchronized neuronal brain activity in epileptic dogs.In conclusion, the pc-SIRS technique is the first noninvasive imaging technique visualizing hypersynchronized neuronal brain activity in epileptic dogs. The method has potential to investigate the spatial relationship between the brain areas affected by NCI effects and structural and/or functional connectivity in the brain.

[O18]

MRI measurements of the normal canine trigeminal nerve C.E. Swain 1 , G. B. Cherubini 1 , P. Mantis 1 1 Dick White Referrals, Six Mile Bottom, Cambridgeshire, UK There is no available measuring protocol and reference range for the normal canine trigeminal nerve. This can be problematic in cases of suspected bilateral trigeminal neuropathy since contralateral nerves cannot be a useful reference for comparison.

Trigeminal nerves and brain measurements were retrospectively assessed via 3D multiplanar reconstructions (3D-MPRs) of 3DT1 post-contrast MR sequences from 200 dogs with no signs or diagnosis of trigeminal disease. Direct measurements of vertical brain height (BH), trigeminal nerves transverse height (TTH) and trigeminal nerves width in dorsal reconstruction (TDW) were measured immediately caudal to the foramen ovale and used to derive nerve height-to-brain ratio (HBR) and width-to-brain ratio (WBR).

Derived HBRs (0.09, IQR = 0.08-0.09) and WBRs (0.1, IQR = 0.09-0.11) maintained similar values across breeds than direct TTHs (3.7, IQR =3.42-4.00) or TDWs (4.33, IQR =3.97-4.71). All measurements varied proportionally with bodyweight, including HBR (r = 0.41, P < 0.0001), which could reflect an over-representation of brachycephalic breeds in the <10 kg bodyweight category (P = 0.04) as these animals had significantly smaller HBRs compared to dolichocephalic (P = 0.0258) and mesaticephalic (P = 0.0112) breeds and might be explained by their taller cranial conformation. Furthermore, there was significantly larger HBRs in senior dogs compared to adult animals (P = 0.0409), which may reflect senile cerebral atrophy.

In conclusion, trigeminal nerve-to-brain ratios may allow for more accurate, objective assessment of the canine trigeminal nerves on MRI. Additional studies are required to assess these ratios in known cases of trigeminal neuropathy/neuritis and to further quantify the effects of weight, cephalic index and age on suggested ranges.

[O19]

Craniofacial hypoplasia in cavalier king Charles spaniels with Chiarilike malformation: A machine learning inspired morphological study S.P. Knowler 1 , E. Dumas 1 , M Spiteri 2 , A. K. McFadyen 3 , F. Stringer 4 , K. Wells 2 , C. Rusbridge 1,4 1 School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Surrey, Guildford, Surrey, UK, 2 Centre for Vision, Speech and Signal Processing, University of Surrey, Guildford, Surrey, UK, 3 akm-stats, Glasgow, Scotland, UK, 4 Fitzpatrick Referrals, Eashing, Surrey UK Machine Learning (ML) uses a pipeline of statistical patterns that characterize morphological changes not necessarily apparent to the human observer. This data driven approach can remove bias possible with a hypothesis-driven expert-observer approach. ML was applied to CKCS with Chiari-like malformation (CM) associated pain (CM-P) and syringomyelia (SM) and identified biomarkers in sella turcica/presphenoid and soft palate regions. This inspired further morphological study.

Retrospective study of T2W sagittal DICOM anonymized images of Discriminant Analysis revealed that reduced distance between the rostral cerebrum and frontal bone and the ratio of the cranial height to length best distinguished between the three groups. Reduction in maxillary height was significant for CM-P (P = 0.004). The findings suggest that brachycephaly and reduction in craniofacial tissue are paramount features for symptomatic CM and SM.

This ML driven project suggested that CKCS with CM-P and SM-S have craniofacial hypoplasia providing further evidence that CM is a global skull and craniocervical disorder. The disease may be influenced by human selection for brachycephalic features including a welldefined stop. This has implications for health screening which currently dictates only the caudal skull is imaged.

[O20]

Susceptibility weighted imaging at 1.5 Tesla magnetic resonance imaging: Comparison with T2*-weighted gradient ECHO sequence and its clinical indications SWI has not been reported in veterinary patients. The aim of this study was to compare SWI and GRE T2* sequences in dogs with intracranial disease.

Medical records were retrospectively searched for dogs that underwent a brain MRI examination which included GRE T2* and SWI sequences. Ethical permission was obtained. The relative visibility and appearance of non-vascular and vascular signal voids observed on GRE T2* and SWI was compared.

Thirty-three dogs were included, comprising intracranial neoplasia (26), cardiovascular accidents (4), trauma (2) and empyema (1). Histopathological results were reviewed where available. Hemorrhagic lesions were more conspicuous on SWI than GRE T2* in all cases.

Intralesional and extralesional vessels were detected in all cases in SWI versus 7/33 on GRE T2*. This enabled identification of vascular displacement (9), dilation (8), and neovascularisation (23), aiding lesion diagnosis.

Hemorrhagic lesions and vascular structures are more conspicuous on SWI compared to GRE T2* sequences.

[O21]

Hereditary sensory and autonomic neuropathy in a family of mixed breed dogs: Phenotypic and genetic characterization Five 7-month-old mixed breed dogs from 2 related litters were presented for a 2 month history of acral mutilation and progressive pelvic limb gait abnormalities. Neurological examination revealed proprioceptive pelvic limb ataxia with spontaneous knuckling and tarsal hyperextension. Proprioceptive reactions were absent in the pelvic limbs and segmental spinal reflexes were normal. Nociception was absent in thoracic and pelvic limbs, but present in the trunk and tail.

Complete blood count, serum biochemistry, urine metabolic screening and CSF analysis were unremarkable. Electromyography and motor nerve conduction were unremarkable, but we were unable to obtain a sensory nerve action potential. Three dogs were euthanized at presentation, one at 2 years of age due to urinary incontinence and one at 5 years of age due to progression of the clinical signs and regurgitation secondary to megaoesophagus. Histopathology revealed neuronal necrosis and degeneration in autonomic and dorsal nerve root ganglia with secondary axonal degeneration and loss of myelinated fibers in peripheral and autonomic nerves. Genetic analysis detected a novel pathogenic FAM134B c.656C > T (p.P219L) variant, which is inherited in an autosomal recessive manner. This is the second reported mutation affecting FAM134B causing sensory and autonomic neuropathy in dogs.

[O22]

The prognostic value of modified Glasgow Coma SCALE and CT imaging findings of cats after traumatic brain injury L. Poad 1 , S. Cortellini 1 , E. Beltran 1 1 Department of Clinical Science and Services, Royal Veterinary College, Hawkshead Lane, North Mymms, Hertfordshire, AL9 7TA UK The modified Glasgow Coma Scale (MGCS) has been shown to be a useful predictor of short-term prognosis in dogs following traumatic brain injury (TBI). The aim of this retrospective study was to correlate the imaging findings, MGCS and outcome of cats following TBI and to assess any association between MGCS and outcome.

The medical records of cats admitted for head trauma to the Queen Mother Hospital for Animals between 2012 and 2018 were reviewed.

Cats were included if they had a record of TBI, recorded MGCS at time of admission or neurological examination sufficient for enabling retrospective interpretation of a MGCS, CT imaging performed and at least 48 hours follow up information. Based on previously described scales, each cat was assigned scores for CT findings and outcome at 48 hours and, when possible, 4 weeks after the TBI occurred. Cats were excluded if they had incomplete data or if death was due to systemic illness or at owner request.

Thirty-eight cats fulfilled the inclusion criteria. The MGCS ranged from 4 to 18 at time of admission. Five cats were euthanized within 48 hours of TBI. A Kruskal-Wallis H test showed that there was a significant correlation between the MGCS score and severity of CT findings (P = 0.019). There was a significant correlation between MGCS score at admission and outcome at 48 hours (P = 0.00).

In conclusion, grading of CT findings and MGCS can provide a useful index for prediction of outcome in cats after TBI.

Pre-processing of the data included automated brain extraction, correction of motion artifacts and filtering of high frequency regions.

Additionally, an anatomical T1-weighted brain template of the population was generated and used to register the rs-fMRI images. A grouplevel independent component analysis (gICA) was performed to identify functionally connected brain networks (20 pre-selected independent components).

The gICA analysis revealed 8 components, which were associated with 7 different putative resting state networks (RSNs): auditory, primary visual, peripheral visual, default mode (rostral and caudal), dorsal attention, the motor/somatosensory and somatosensory.

All reported networks are homologous to mammalian animal models and humans´RSNs. However, further higher order RSNs commonly reported in humans such as executive control and salience network were not present; suggesting, that whether intact consciousness may be necessary for detection of such networks or absence of these networks in the canine brain.

Characterization of the canine resting state networks opens the possibility to further investigate brain diseases, especially those that lack of obvious morphological alterations.

[O24]

Semi-automated image classification for detection of T2 hypointensity on 3T MRI in dogs with severe spinal cord injury B. Boudreau 1 , N. Jeffery 1 1 Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA Interobserver reliability limits the application of imaging biomarkers in the study of spinal cord injury. In this study, T2-weighted transverse slices were evaluated from 27 dogs with paraplegia and loss of deep pain perception following acute spinal cord injury.

The region of the spinal cord was hand-segmented from each slice, intensity normalized by z-scoring, and scaled to uniform maximum dimensions. A randomly selected training set of 600 slices was subjected to automatic feature extraction. The resulting features were used to train an image classifier against ground truth established by one blinded neurologist sorting the images into eight visual pattern categories, one of which corresponded to intramedullary hypointensity.

The trained classifier identified intramedullary hypointensity with 87% accuracy on a test set of an additional 600 images, and selected 9/9 individuals with clear intramedullary hypointensity from the complete original dataset. It was then exposed to an additional 800 images from the spinal cords of 18 other dogs. The classifier identified 4/4 individuals with intramedullary hypointensity previously recognized through visual screening by an additional neurologist.

These data demonstrate that a semi-automated process may be applied to identify salient features of spinal cord injury without relying on human judgment. This study represents a preliminary step in development of bias-free application of imaging criteria for spinal cord injury in dogs.

Canine Wharton's jelly mesenchymal stem cell therapy in dogs with acute paraplegia and absent pain perception after thoracolumbar disk extrusion The population included 8 treated and 10 control dogs. Dachshund were the most common breed and Th12-13 was the most frequent compression site in both groups. Ten dogs returned to ambulatory function (55%) with 4/10 suffering from occasional urinary and 3/10 from fecal incontinence. Six dogs did not regain ambulatory function and two were diagnosed with myelomalacia. There was no difference in outcome for treated compared to control dogs. The time from onset to surgery, the number of laminectomy sites and the estimated compression ratio did not influence the outcome.

In conclusion, application of WJ-MSC did not yield significant improvement compared to controls. Future studies should address dosage, cell potency, prior cryopreservation, and site of injection as possible factors contributing to the negative outcome in this trial.

[O26]

Peri-ictal magnetic resonance imaging changes in dogs with idiopathic epilepsy 

Surgical treatment of Atlanto-axial subluxation using 3D-printed patient-specific drill guides for placement of transpedicular screws in 12 dogs C. Toni 1 , B. Oxley 1 , S. Behr 1 1 Willows Veterinary Centre and Referral Services, Solihull, UK

The objective of this retrospective case series was to report outcome and complications following ventral atlanto-axial stabilization using 3D-printed patient-specific drill guides for placement of transpedicular screws in dogs with atlanto-axial subluxation.

Medical records of dogs treated with this technique between May 2016 and August 2018 were reviewed. Data including pre-and postoperative modified Frankel score, imaging modality performed and complications were collected. Screws placement was graded using a modified Zdichavsky classification based on post-operative computed tomography (CT). Telephone follow up was obtained for each dog.

Twelve consecutive cases were included. Modified Frankel score was 3 in 5/12 (42%) dogs and 4 in 7/12 (58%) on presentation. All dogs underwent pre-and post-operative CT scans. Of 61 bicortical screws placed, 57/61 (93%) were graded 1 and 4/61 (7%) were graded 2a.

Post-operative CT revealed good alignment of C1 and C2 in all planes.

Reversible perioperative adverse events were described in 5/12 (42%) dogs. Two out of twelve (17%) of dogs were euthanized shorty after discharge for conditions unlikely directly related to the surgical procedure performed. At short-term follow up (18 to 50 days after surgery) 8/10 dogs (80%) had improved neurological status. For the remaining 2/10 (20%) neurological status remained unchanged. All dogs were reported ambulatory and comfortable at telephone follow-up (median 405 days post-surgery, range 180-780 days).

In conclusion this technique is accurate and safe in dogs with atlantoaxial subluxation, with improved neurological status resulting in 10/12 dogs.

What do people want to know about canine and feline epilepsy? Looking for answers using google trends Google is currently the most popular search engine and enables fast and easy access to health-related information. Google Trends is a useful tool that allows the analysis and graphing of Google searches in various countries over time.

The aim of this study was to evaluate and interpret worldwide web search queries related to canine and feline seizures and epilepsy in English-speaking countries over the course of a five-year period and determine related topic searches.

Searched terms included "dog seizure," "dog epilepsy," "cat seizure" and "cat epilepsy." The results were retrieved as a number of relative normalized search volume numbers (RNSN) on a 100 point scale.

"Dog epilepsy" was the most searched term. There was an increasing trend of this search over time (2014 mean 42 RNSN vs 2019 mean 72 RNSN). A breakout of related topics (>5000% RNSN) included "cannabidiol drug", "dog seizure aftermath" and "dog seizure triggers".

In each studied year, the search for this term peaked between the 23rd-31st December (>58 RNSN).

In cats, the term "cat seizure" was less popular and remained at a steady search trend (2014 mean 51 RNSN vs 2019 mean 55 RNSN).

Breakout related topics included "euthanasia" and "cat seizure while sleeping". Peak periods for this search (>69 RNSN) were observed in July, October and December.

Studies assess Google search trends may enhance our understanding of the demand for information concerning specific aspects of animal seizures and epilepsy. The processing of such data may help veterinarians meet these information needs.

[FP3] Attempts to treat hypersexuality as a behavioral issue, UTI (coamoxyclav), pain (meloxicam) and anxiety (diazepam) were unsuccessful. Thus, phenobarbital was prescribed in a low dose (1 mg/kg,PO, q12h) which eliminated the episodes of hypersexuality without sedating. Phenobarbital withdrawal resulted in hypersexuality re-establishment. One-year later the cat remained episode-free on phenobarbital. This is the first report to present a presumptive TLE characterized by hypersexuality in a neutered male cat.

A new frameless optical neuronavigation system for brain biopsies in eight dogs S. Gutmann 1 , C. Tästensen 1 , I. Böttcher 1 , J. Dietzel 1 , T. Flegel 1 1 Department of Small Animal Medicine, University of Leipzig, Germany

Optical neuronavigation creates a virtual reality, so the surgeon can see the position of all instruments in relation to the head during the procedure in real-time.

The STORZ biopsy device consists of a computer workstation with special software, infrared camera, patient tracker and reflective instruments. Eight dogs with forebrain lesions diagnosed on MRI were sampled: For biopsy planning a 3D-MRI scan (T1/T2, 1 mm) of the entire patient's head was performed. Afterwards four pins were placed into the skull at following localizations: both zygomatic arches, paramedian over frontal sinus and occipital protuberance.

Then a CT scan of the skull was made. Both data sets were fused automatically. A patient tracker with reflective balls was attached to the skull using three self-tapping screws. The patient was registered by touching the patient tracker as well as the tip of each pin with a reflective instrument. Intracranial lesions were sampled free handed (2-4 samples) through a mini-burr hole of 3 mm diameter using a Sedan side-cutting needle with reflective balls. Diagnostic yield based on specific histopathological diagnosis was 100%. Biopsy samples indicated postictal edema (n = 1), inflammatory (n = 5, necrotizing encephalitis/ necrotizing leucencephalitis/meningoencephalitis unknown origin/ distemper virus encephalitis) or neoplastic (n = 2, oligodendroglioma) pathologies. Six dogs showed no neurological deterioration, one dog showed a mild temporary ataxia and one dog died after the biopsy procedure because of progression of a preexisting foramen magnum herniation.

The frameless optical neuronavigation system by STORZ is a relatively safe and effective tool to gain diagnostic brain biopsy samples in dogs.

[FP7] MYELO-CT imaging "seagull"-shaped, compressive material of hydrated signal intensity (hyperintense in T2-weighted images) immediately dorsal to the affected disc space. The intervertebral disc space is often narrowed, with an ill-defined dorsal annulus and a reduced nucleus pulposus signal. Recently, contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CE-CT) appearance of compressive HNPE has been described as a hypodense extradural compressive lesion with rim enhancement immediately dorsal to the intervertebral disc space, with a sensitivity of 91% and a specificity of 100%.

The aim of this case series collected between 2015 and 2019 is to retrospectively describe the myelo-CT findings in four dogs with gross surgical findings consistent with compressive HNPE (white or transparent water-like or gelatinous material). In all cases, the myelo-CT findings were similar to previously described MR including a focal extradural "seagull"-shaped compressive lesion dorsal to the annulus fibrosus combined with a narrowing of the affected intervertebral disc space. The extruded material tended to be hypodense in soft tissue window, although the presence of subarachnoid contrast might artefactually have contributed to this appearance.

These results suggest that myelo-CT could be a useful diagnostic tool for compressive HNPE when MR is not available, although a greater number of cases is required to draw solid conclusions.

Clinical presentation, MRI findings, histopathology and outcome in a cat with masticatory myositis A four-year-old, spayed female domestic short-haired cat was presented with acute facial swelling and waxing-and-waning bilateral exophthalmos for two weeks while treated with meloxicam and amoxicillin-clavulanic acid.

Bilateral asymmetric facial swelling, mild exophthalmos and third eyelid protrusion were detected on clinical examination. Hematology and serum biochemistry revealed eosinophilia and markedly elevated CK activity. MRI of the head revealed diffuse swelling of the temporalis, masseter and medial pterygoid muscles. These muscles were severely and heterogeneously hyperintense on T2-weighted and STIR images, compared to normal skeletal muscle. On post-contrast T1-weighted images they were strongly and heterogeneously enhancing and contained several irregular, non-contrast-enhancing areas. Fine needle cytology of the left temporal muscle revealed eosinophilic and macrophagic inflammation. Bacteriologic and fungal cultures were negative.

IgG and IgM for Toxoplasma gondii were compatible with previous exposure. A canine ELISA system against masticatory muscle type 2 M fibers was positive at 1:4000 (reference interval < 1:100). Histopathology of the left temporalis muscle revealed moderately severe multifocal myositis. Based on the diagnostic investigation, a diagnosis of immune-mediated masticatory myositis was made.

Treatment with tapering doses of prednisolone resulted in complete resolution of the presenting clinical signs. Five months following diagnosis, while on 0.4 mg/kg/day prednisolone, no relapse has occurred, the cat's serum 2 M antibody titre is negative and the serum CK activity is within reference range.

To the authors' knowledge, this is the first case report describing the MRI appearance and successful treatment of masticatory myositis in a cat.

[FP9]

3T MRI characteristics and functional outcome in dogs with severe spinal cord injury following thoracolumbar disc herniation N. D. Jeffery 1 , B. Boudreau 1 1 Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, Texas, USA Dogs that have lost 'deep pain perception' following acute thoracolumbar disc herniation have an uncertain prognosis for recovery. In this study we explored the relationship between pre-operative MRI features and recovery of ambulation in such 'deep pain negative' dogs following routine decompressive surgery plus extensive (4-vertebral length) durotomy.

Of 13 dogs for which we had the necessary data, 7 recovered to walk again and 6 did not (including one that developed progressive myelomalacia). The median length of the gap in CSF signal on the 'myelographic' midsagittal MR image was 4.75 vertebral lengths in dogs that recovered versus 8 in those that did not. The spinal cord of all dogs but one (that recovered) exhibited hyperintensity in the gray matter on transverse T2W and STIR images that extended for variable distances. In 4 dogs that did not recover there were also extensive regions of hypointensity in the gray matter and, in some individuals, the central canal, on many transverse T2W images; this pattern was not observed in any of the dogs that recovered to walk again.

MR imaging in this small sample of dogs with severe thoracolumbar spinal cord injury after disc extrusion suggests that regions of T2W hypointensity, suggestive of hemorrhagic necrosis or hematoma, in the gray matter or central canal are associated with a poor prognosis for recovery, even when treated by extensive durotomy. As suggested in previous studies a short gap in CSF columns on myelographic MR images suggests a good prognosis.

[FP10]

Median manubriotomy as a simple method to improve ventral access to C7, T1 and T2 vertebral bodies and corresponding intervertebral disc spaces I. Mateo 1 1 Hospital Veterinario Vetsia, Calle Galileo 3, Leganes, Madrid, Spain

The approach to the ventral aspect of caudal cervical and first thoracic vertebrae is hindered by the manubrium and the depth of the access.

The aim of the present study is the description of the technique used to improve access to C7, T1 and T2 vertebral bodies and corresponding intervertebral spaces, in 7 patients.

With the animals positioned in dorsal recumbency, a ventral midline incision was made from the mid-cervical area to the second sternebra.

The sternocephalicus muscles were divided to the manubrium and the superficial and deep pectoral muscles were disinserted from the manubrium with monopolar electrocautery. Subsequently a median manubriotomy was performed. Small Gelpi retractors were used to keep the manubrium open throughout the procedure, allowing visualization of deeper structures of caudal cervical spinal. Care was taken to avoid penetration to the pleural cavity and to respect the external jugular vein in its union with the brachiocephalic vein. With both sides of the manubrium retracted, an incision between sternohyoideus muscles was made to expose the trachea. Then, the approach to the ventral aspect of the cervical spine was continued in the standard manner. Gelpis Seletz retractors are recommended to retract longus colli muscles.

The procedure improved notably the visualization of the ventral aspect C7, T1 and T2 vertebral bodies, thus allowing a comfortable drilling for ventral slot (5 cases with disc extrusions or protrusions) or implant placement (2 cases). No patient suffered complications during or after the surgical procedure. There was no significant increase in perioperative pain.

[FP11]

Analysis of treatment and monitoring protocols of cytarabine arabinoside in canine patients Cytosine arabinoside (CA) is a chemotherapeutic used as an immunosuppressant or anti-neoplastic agent. It is useful in the treatment of diseases of the central nervous system based on its ability to cross the blood brain barrier. Side effects such as myelosuppression, GI disturbance, and hepatotoxicity have been reported. Therefore, it is critical to monitor patients that receive CA. The purpose of this study is to collect and compare data about CA treatment protocols in veterinary medicine.

Internal Medicine (ACVIM) neurology, oncology, and small animal medicine listservs were contacted and asked to fill out a 26-question online survey about the administration, monitoring, and side effects in dogs being treated with CA. Survey data was compared to retrospective record data of dogs treated with CA at the study institution.

Results from the survey indicate a significant difference in the dose utilized in treatment protocols (P < 0.01). Despite variation in dosage, results show a majority of veterinarians perform similar monitoring procedures prior to the first dose of CA. However, after completing the first dose, monitoring procedures varied significantly (P < 0.01).

Analysis of both the retrospective and survey data suggest that intravenous administration is associated with a higher risk for side effect development.

Based on these results, there is variation in CA treatment protocols amongst veterinarians. Additionally, route of administration may affect the side effects that are observed. Additional research is required to further investigate how route of administration can alter patient outcomes.

Clinical and MRI findings in two cats with globoid cell leukodystrophy A. S. Colverde 1 , C. Falzone 2 , T. Gagliardo 3 , G. The aim of the study was to describe neurological symptoms and MRI findings in two cats with histological confirmed Globoid Cell Leukodystrophy.

We considered cats with progressive neurological signs and MRI changes due to Globoid cell Leukodystrophy, as per histological confirmation.

Two not related male, 5-month-old cats, were referred for progressive neurological signs reflecting multifocal central nervous system involvement and characterized by intentional head tremor, paralysis with absence of deep pain perception on pelvic limbs and weaknessdysmetria with reduced flexor reflex on forelimbs; menace response was also bilaterally decreased.

MRI scans were performed with a 0,25 T-unit and included FSE T2 and T1 weighted sequences on sagittal and transverse planes; T1WI were repeated after intravenously paramagnetic contrast medium administration (0.1 mmol/kg gadolinium). Diffuse and irregular intramedullary T2-weighted hyperintensities were found on the thoracolumbar area; no obvious morphological and signal changes were detected on pre and post-contrast T1WI. In one patient mild cerebellar volume reduction was found.

CSF examination showed mild pleocytosis (13 cells/ul) and marked protein increase (300 mg/dL) in one patient and mild albuminocytologic dissociation in the second (protein: 62 mg/dL).

Due to the progression of the neurological signs, both patients were euthanized. Histological examination of the brain and spinal cord showed myelin loss and perivascular big macrophages containing PAS positive substance, compatible with Globoid Cells Leukodystrophy.

Globoid Cell Leukodystrophy should be considered as a differential diagnosis in young cats showing progressive multifocal neurological signs with predominant involvement of the spinal cord and irregulardiffuse T2 intramedullary hyperintensities on MRI exam. Last follow-up examinations of Th17-cells were comparable to the control group, preoperative Th17-cell-levels were decreased. Compared to healthy controls IL-17 measured in serum was significantly higher (P < 0.0001) in dogs with IVDH. However, there was no considerable difference between IL-17 levels in CSF amongst all groups (r Sp = 0.0482).

In conclusion, a high activity/usage or consumption of IL-17-producing-cells is suspected in acute IVDH. The decreased amount of Th17-cells recovers postoperatively. These findings may indicate an involvement of Th17-cells in the pathogenesis of IVDH and emphasize the importance of these cells in the interaction of pain and an immune reaction.

Investigation of a TH17 cell-mediated immune response in dogs with idiopathic epilepsy A. Knebel 1 , A. Kämpe 1 , R. Carlson 1 , K. Rohn 2 , A. Tipold 1 1 Department of Small Animal Medicine and Surgery, University of Veterinary Medicine, Hannover, Germany, 2 Institute for Biometry, Epidemiology and Information Processing (IBEI), Hannover, Germany Th17 cells and their proinflammatory cytokine interleukin-17 (IL-17) seem to be associated with the development of chronic inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. We investigated whether a Th17-cell mediated influence can be identified in some dogs with idiopathic epilepsy (IE).

Th17 cells were identified and quantified by flow cytometry in blood of dogs with IE (n = 57) and IL-17 was measured in CSF (n = 35) and serum samples (n = 33) using an ELISA. Ten healthy beagles formed the control group. Results were correlated with clinical parameters e.g. seizure frequency, seizure severity or response to treatment.

Th17 cells were also randomly controlled in dogs with IE in a follow up study. The study was conducted in accordance with the ethical guidelines of the University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover (experiment number 33.8-42 502-05-18A290).

Elevated levels of stimulated Th17 cells/μl were observed in ten dogs with IE (17.54%). There was a positive correlation between stimulated Th17 cells of dogs with IE and seizure severity (P = 0.0460). IL-17 levels in CSF and serum samples of dogs with IE were significantly increased compared to the control group. However only one correlation with clinical data or sampling time points could be observed: a negative correlation between IL-17 values in CSF samples and the amount of AEDs given to treat dogs with IE.

In conclusion, in single dogs with IE and severe seizures increased Th17 cell numbers were detected in blood. In these individual cases an autoimmune reaction against brain structures could be a potential cause for seizures and anti-inflammatory treatment could be indicated.

Clinical, magnetic resonance imaging and histologic findings of canine thoracolumbar discal cyst Eight dogs were included with 2 mixed large size breed dogs, 2 German Shepherds, 1 Labrador, 1 Pitt Bull, 1 Czechoslovakian Wolf dog, 1 Siberian Husky. The mean age at time of presentation was 8.5 years; 7 patients were male and one female. The neurological signs more often were severe and started acutely (<48 hours) in all but two dogs, that had a more subacute onset (3 to 7 days). MRI showed compressive thoracolumbar myelopathy due to a round to oval shaped epidural space-occupying lesion communicating with the intervertebral disc, iso/hypointense on T1WI and mostly hyperintense on T2WI, with a variable contrast-enhancing wall, highly suggestive of a cystic structure. Histology confirmed the cyst, showing a wall made of dense fibrous connective tissue and mainly chondroid cells. All dogs dramatically improved after surgery.

Despite rare, discal cysts should be considered amongst the differential diagnosis in dogs with acute thoracolumbar myelopathy and can be successfully surgically treated. We have retrospectively identified dogs with: (1) deficits involving more than 2 cranial nerves (CN) either motor, sensory or autonomic, based on clinical examination and EMG when available; (2) a monophasic disease course pattern of acute / sub-acute onset; and (3) exclusion of diseases affecting the brain parenchyma on advanced imaging.

Seven dogs (6 females, 1 male, aged 2-10 years old) were identified with 5-30 days histories of multiple cranial nerves deficits. Median number of CN involved was 4 (range 3-7). Five dogs were presented with dropped jaw, 5 dogs with facial weakness, 5 with peripheral vestibular signs and 3 dogs with bulbar signs. Deficits were asymmetric in 5 dogs. Brain imaging was normal in 4 dogs and contrast enhancement of one or more CN was seen in 3 dogs. Albuminocytological dissociation was noted on CSF analysis in 3 dogs and mononuclear pleocytosis in 1 dog. The outcome was fair to good in dogs without bulbar signs and more guarded in dogs with bulbar signs.

Polyneuritis cranialis had thus far only been described once in a dog and an immune-mediated disease was suspected. It might represent a subtype of acute canine polyradiculoneuritis. We would like to recruit further cases prospectively to look more closely at presence of antiglycolipid antibodies, response to intravenous immunoglobulins and outcome.

[FP18]

Prognostic value of early computed tomography in dogs after traumatic brain injury S. Wyatt 1 , C.Y. Lee 1 , M. Pivetta 1 , E. Beltran 1 1 Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, UK Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is associated with significant mortality and valid prognostic indicators for survival are limited in veterinary medicine. The study objective was to determine whether early CT findings are associated with short-term prognosis after TBI in dogs.

An electronic database was retrospectively searched for dogs with TBI which underwent CT imaging within 72 hours of injury; 49 dogs with TBI met the inclusion criteria for this study which was granted ethical permission by the study institution. CT findings were evaluated by three reviewers blinded to clinical presentation and were classified based on a modified advanced imaging system (MAIS) from grade I-VI. Seventeen dogs (34.7%) had abnormal brain parenchyma on CT. Midline shift was present in eight dogs (16.3%). There was a significantly worse prognosis associated with more extensive intraparenchymal injuries, midline shift, and brainstem lesions. There was also a significant association with MAIS grade and short-term prognosis. Eight dogs (16.3%) experienced PTS; dogs with higher MAIS were significantly more likely to suffer PTS.

CT is a valuable tool in predicting short-term prognosis following TBI in dogs and the MAIS may be useful for predicting survival to discharge and occurrence of PTS.

[FP19]

Magnetic resonance spectroscopy findings in a beagle dog with genetically confirmed Lafora disease N. Alisauskaite 1 , M. Dennler 2 , K. Beckmann 1 , N. Zölch 3 1 Neurology Service, Department of Small Animal Surgery, Vetsuisse-Faculty Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland, 2 Clinic for Diagnostic Imaging, Department of Diagnostics and Clinical Services, Vetsuisse-Faculty Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland, 3 Forensic Medicine and Imaging, Institute of Forensic Medicine, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland Lafora disease (LD) is an autosomal recessive degenerative disease primarily affecting the central nervous system in various species, including people and specific dog breeds, such as beagles. In beagles it is caused by mutation in NHLRC1 gene, leading to intracellular accumulation of polyglucosan bodies (Lafora bodies) primarily in the somatodentritic compartment. Cortical atrophy was demonstrated in humans and dogs in MR imaging. In humans, magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) of the brain reveals reduced N-acetyl-aspartate (NAA) relative to brain metabolites -creatine (Cre), choline (Cho) and myo-Inositol (mI), in patients suffering from LD compared to controls.

MRS findings in dogs suffering from LD are lacking.

A 6-year-old female beagle was presented with history of a single generalized tonic-clonic seizure and multiple episodes of reflex myoclonus. Neurological examination was unremarkable. 3-Tesla MRI and MRS with voxel positioning in the thalamus were performed and compared to 12 healthy beagles' results. Signal-to-noise ratio and full width at half maximum were comparable between investigated dog and controls.

MRI examination of the head and CSF analysis were unremarkable.

MRS revealed decreased levels of glutamate-glutamine complex (Glx), NAA and increased phosphoethanolamine (PE) relative to water and Cre compared to the value range in controls. Additionally, NAA/Cho ratio demonstrated the most pronounced difference compared to healthy beagles. Genetic test confirmed LD.

In this case MRS showed abnormalities with absent changes in conventional MRI. Reduced NAA reflects neuronal loss and is comparable to MRS findings in humans suffering from LD. Reduced Glx levels might be associated with antiepileptic drug administration.

[FP20]

A patient-specific 3D printed surgical guide to aid localization of the drilling site during transsphenoidal hypophysectomy in dogs comes with technical challenges due to the anatomy of the bone and presence of important blood vessels around the pituitary. The surgeon's landmarks to locate the sella turcica are the pterygoid hamular processes and shape of the sphenoid bone, but these remain imperfect. We thought of designing a patient-specific mold which would delineate the exact burring site into the sphenoid bone for correct and safe entry into the sella turcica.

To achieve this, we have dissected and obtained CT images of the head of two cadavers, designed guides for each anatomical specimen, 3D printed the skulls and fitted the guides, drilled the sphenoid bone, then finally checked with CT accuracy of our approach. The guide locks on the upper arcade molars. It extends caudally to meet the sphenoid bone where it takes the shape of a rectangular frame. The size and location of the drilling site, in the middle of the frame, is defined from reconstructed sagittal CT images where the sphenoid outer and inner cortices are visualized. For both anatomical specimens, entry into the sella turcica was possible.

We provide here proof-of-concept that a low profile 3D printed patient-specific guide can help successful entry into the sella turcica.

We believe that this guide could increase safety of hypophysectomy and reduce surgical time and surgeon's apprehension to damage important anatomical structures around the pituitary fossa. The technique could be extrapolated to cats with little difficulties. and nerve biopsies were compared. Age of onset was between 2 months and 9 years (mean 22.5 months). 8/11 patients showed neuromuscular signs only while 3/11 showed also CNS involvement.

Serology was performed in 9/11 with 6/9 showing titers >1:160. PCR on muscle samples detected N. caninum DNA in 8/11. Histopathology revealed inflammatory myopathy in 9/11, necrotizing myopathy in 2/11 and tachyzoites in 8/11. Nerve biopsies showed signs of neuropathy in 5/7. All three tests were performed in 9/11 with confirmation in 3/9 from all tests, 4/9 from two tests and 2/9 from one test. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case report describing the CT and MRI characteristics of the thoracolumbar vertebral column in an adult dog with presumed CH. Closure of the growth plates was noted on the images most likely as a consequence of the age of the dog and medical treatment. Multiple disc protrusions in juvenile-onset CH have been described previously in a mixed-breed dog and were considered to be due to the skeletal developmental abnormalities resulting in joint laxity and consequent vertebral instability. The NSE and GFAP concentrations in CSF and serum in the MG were significantly higher compared to the CG (P = 0.008 and P = 0.013, respectively). When a cut-off value of 250 ng/mL of NSE in the CSF and 150 ng/mL in the serum was used, a sensitivity of 75% and specificity of 100% for mortality at 3 months was observed in both tests.

When a cut-off value of 3.5 ng/mL of GFAP in CSF was stipulated for mortality at 3 months, 69% sensitivity and 100% specificity was observed.

In conclusion, NSE and GFAP are expressed in CSF and serum of healthy dogs and dogs with MUO, with a significant difference between both groups. Although results appear promising, large scale studies are necessary to confirm the presented findings. [P2]

Congenital sensorineural deafness in English setters in the UK: Prevalence and association with phenotype and sex Oliver Marsh 1 , Julia Freeman 1 , Jan Van Dijk 2 , Luisa De Risio 1 1 Animal Health Trust, Lanwades Park, Kentford, Newmarket CB8 7UU, UK, 2 Zoetis, Chester, UK

The purpose of this study was to estimate the prevalence of congenital sensorineural deafness (CSD) in the English Setter (ES) in the United Kingdom, and to determine whether any association between phenotype and CSD exists in this breed.

The study was approved by the institution's clinical research ethics committee. The hearing clinic database was searched for ES puppies aged 5-10 weeks presented as full litters undergoing brainstem auditory evoked response (BAER) testing for the purpose of CSD screening between 2000 and 2018. The age, sex, presence of patches at birth, coat color, iris color, hearing status and parental hearing status (based on BAER) of each puppy was recorded. Multivariate binary logistic regression was performed to determine the significance of these variables as predictors for the likelihood of puppies being unilaterally or bilaterally deaf.

Inclusion criteria were met for 447 ES puppies. The hearing status was bilaterally normal in 427 (95.5%) of puppies. The prevalence of unilateral and bilateral CSD was 3.6% and 0.9%, respectively. Female puppies were 3.3 times more likely to be deaf than males, and puppies with both parents of unknown hearing status were 4.6 times more likely to be deaf than puppies with at least one parent of known normal hearing status. None of the other variables investigated were found to be significantly associated with CSD.

The overall prevalence of CSD in this study population was 4.5%, with female puppies and those with two parents of unknown hearing status being at greatest risk.

[P3]

Partial lateral corpectomy in a cat with a T9-T10 Intervertebral disc protrusion K. Santifort 1 , F. Viehoff 1 , I. Schaafsma 1 1 Veterinary Referral Practice 'de Pietersberg', Pietersbergseweg 14, Oosterbeek 6862 BV, The Netherlands

Clinically relevant intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) is less commonly reported in cats than in dogs. However, as diagnostic imaging and surgical techniques are implemented more commonly in felines, there is an increasing body of evidence and experience to support choices in the treatment of feline IVDD cases.

A 12-year-old female neutered domestic shorthair cat was presented with chronic progressive ambulatory but severe paraparesis, ataxia and fecal/urinary incontinence. Neurological examination findings were consistent with a painful T3-L3 myelopathy. Radiographs and MRI revealed intervertebral disc protrusion (IVDP) at T9-T10 with overlying spinal cord T2-hyperintensity. Conservative management for 4 weeks did not result in improvement. A right partial lateral corpectomy at T9-T10 was performed through a lateral thoracotomy approach according to the description provided by Böttcher et al 2008. Post-operative care consisted of analgesia, physiotherapy and bladder management. Despite post-operative worsening of clinical signs, gradual recovery over the next 6 weeks resulted in an overall satisfactory outcome with residual mild ataxia and spastic monoparesis (right hind) and no urinary incontinence. Fecal incontinence remained, however, which is troublesome for the owners.

Clinically relevant IVDD at T2-T10 is uncommon. Feline T9-T10 IVDD has only been reported twice before. One case (IVDP) was managed surgically (laminectomy and fenestration -unsuccessful outcome) and one (suspected acute non-compressive nucleus pulposus extrusion) was managed conservatively (good outcome). This case report underlines the importance of consideration of decompressive surgery for feline cases of clinically relevant IVDD, in particular lateral corpectomy at sites were other techniques may not provide adequate surgical access.

[P4]

The use of C-reactive protein in canine discospondylitis G. J. Nye 1 , F.X. Liebel 1 , T.R. Harcourt-Brown 1 1 Small Animal Referral Hospital, Langford Vets, University of Bristol, Langford House, Langford BS40 5DU, Bristol, UK Serum C-reactive protein (CRP) is an acute phase protein (APP) used as an ancillary test in multiple canine inflammatory conditions, for example steroid-responsive meningitis-arteritis (SRMA) and may be more sensitive than hematological analysis at identifying inflammatory diseases. A retrospective analysis of dogs with discospondylitis was performed to identify cases where CRP was tested and where performed, a follow-up CRP following antibiotic treatment.

Fourteen dogs were identified with discospondylitis, confirmed on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computed tomography (CT); and a positive urine, blood or disc aspirate culture with a pre-treatment CRP. 12/14 dogs had an elevated CRP. 7/12 dogs with elevated CRP had a post-treatment CRP at 4-6 weeks and in all cases the CRP was normal. 1/7 dogs had a relapse of clinical signs despite this normal CRP. Of the 12 cases with elevated CRP, 6/12 had white blood cell changes. 10/14 dogs had pyrexia as a clinical sign; the two dogs with a normal CRP were also normothermic.

This study demonstrates that CRP can be normal in cases of canine discospondylitis, and that a future prospective study would be beneficial to assess CRP as a monitoring tool for response to treatment and aid with decision making with regards to cessation of antibiotic therapy. The one case of relapse suggests this might not be a reliable guide. 15 of 17 dogs underwent MRI as part of their diagnostic workup. All dogs showed contrast enhancement, and 3 dogs showed STIR hyperintensity in the absence of T2W hyperintensity. 53% of the dogs were treated with Dexamethasone, the remaining treated with Dexamethasone and a additional immunosuppressive agents. Of the dogs seen at follow up at 2 weeks, 7% showed no improvement, 33%

showed partial response and 60% complete resolution of signs. By 10 weeks, 30% had a partial response and 70% full resolution. Side effects were minimal.

In conclusion, we suggest dexamethasone is a suitable alternative corticosteroid to MMM treatment. STIR MRI sequences are useful in diagnosis.

[P6]

Epilepsy surgery: Cortical resection and hippocampectomy-in a cat with drug-resistant structural epilepsy The cat had been showed the right atrophic temporooccipital cortex and hippocampus, that might be caused by perinatal vascular accident, the right forebrain signs and recurrent focal epileptic seizures with or without evolving into generalized seizures that often clustered since 3-month-old. Seizures were comparatively controlled (about 1-2 seizures/3 months) by phenobarbital, zonisamide, diazepam, and gabapentin until 10-year-old, but were gradually being uncontrolled (2-3 seizures/months). To identify the epileptogenic zone, an epidural grid-electrode was placed on the right temporooccipital cortex chronically and electrocorticography (ECoG) was monitored for 18 days. As ECoG revealed that some spontaneous seizures onset from a certain area, cortical resection of that area was performed. After the operation, seizures were not observed for two months, but then seizures recurred. Therefore, the second operation was performed to remove the right additional cortex and atrophic right hippocampus, which showed spikes on the intraoperative ECoG. After the second operation, although epileptogenic spikes remained in the contralateral occipital lobes, the seizure frequency decreased to <1 seizure/3 months under treatment with antiepileptic drugs at the time of one year after surgery. There is no apparent adverse effect of surgery.

To our knowledge, this is the first case report of epilepsy surgery with electroclinical evidence in veterinary medicine. Along with the spread of advanced diagnostic and therapeutic modalities in veterinary neurosurgery, epilepsy surgery will be an alternative treatment option for drug-resistant epilepsy in cats and dogs.

[P7]

Expression of aquaporin 4 in normal canine brains Aquaporin 4 (AQP-4) is growing in recognition as a potential marker for cancer progression, differentiation and therapeutic intervention.

Limited information is available about AQP-4 expression in the canine brain, thus, investigations are necessary to establish a basis for future studies.

We analyzed immunohistochemical expression of AQP-4 in a retrospective series of 9 non-pathological canine brains classified in three groups: young, adult and senior. Formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded brain tissue sections were immunostained for AQP-4 as well as Glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) to additionally confirm the correlation between AQP-4-expressing cells and astrocytes. This is the first study to immunohistochemically describe AQP-4 distribution in normal canine brains of different age groups. The results

showed that APQ-4 expression is highly conserved between species.

A particular pattern was appreciated during the aging process. We hypothesize that the marked elevation of AQP-4 in the young group might be related to brain development, whereas the limited presence of AQP-4 in the senior group could be associated to a reduced compliance of water regulation, yet further studies are required.

Ethical permission was obtained for the study.

[P8]

Clinical, diagnostic imaging, surgical findings and long-term outcome in a cavalier king Charles spaniel with thoracolumbar caudal vertebral articular process hyperplasia [P9]

Sagittal craniosynostosis as underlying cause for unusual brain and skull morphology in boxers intradural-extramedullary was the most common location and intramedullary tumors were much less frequent than in our population.

[P11] Hematology and serum biochemistry including total T4 were normal.

Toxoplasma gondii and Neospora caninum serology titers were negative. Conscious electromyography of the levator nasolabialis and orbicularis oris muscles revealed spontaneous muscle activity in forms of multiplets with an intraburst frequency of 250 Hz, compatible with neuromyotonic discharges. The clinical signs ceased under general anesthesia. Nerve conduction study of the right facial nerve revealed lower amplitude, temporal dispersion and polyphasia compared to the contralateral. MRI of the head showed an enlarged contrast enhancing intratemporal portion of the right facial nerve. CSF cell count, cytology and protein were normal. PCR for infectious diseases on CSF was positive for Canine minute virus (Carnivore bocaparvovirus-1). Treatment with prednisolone at 0.5 mg/kg BID in the first four weeks led to a marked improvement of the clinical signs, without complete resolution. The follow-up is currently ongoing.

Focal myokimia can be the only presenting sign of facial neuropathy.

The role of Canine minute virus in neurological diseases deserves further investigations.

[P12]

Behavioral changes under levetiracetam treatment in dogs J. R. Erath 1 , J. Nessler 1 , F. Riese 1 , E. Hünerfauth 1 , K. Rohn 2 , A. Tipold 1 1 Department of Small Animal Medicine and Surgery, University of Veterinary Medicine, Hannover, Germany, 2 Institute for Biometry, Epidemiology and Information Processing, Hannover, Germany

In veterinary medicine Levetiracetam is a well-tolerated antiepileptic drug (AED) with only mild to moderate side effects. Behavioral changes are rare in animals. In contrast, in human medicine the impact of Levetiracetam on behavior was frequently described. Since in our clinic single canine patients with behavioral abnormalities after Levetiracetam application were observed, the current study should elucidate the occurrence of behavioral changes after administration of this AED in dogs.

Levetiracetam as monotherapy, add on treatment or pulse therapy were evaluated. The behavior of the dogs before and after Levetiracetam treatment was ascertained using validated questionnaires.

Forty-four dogs already developed changes in their behavior during the disease without Levetiracetam application. After Levetiracetam administration, these behavioral changes were intensified in 14/44 dogs and 4/44 dogs developed at least one additional behavioral abnormality in comparison to their behavioral state before treatment.

In 10/40 dogs without preexisting behavioral abnormalities, newly observed behavioral traits were noticed (eg, anxiety, aggression). The changes already occurred after the first application in 5 of these 10 dogs. Levetiracetam was administered as pulse (7/10) or long-term therapy (3/10). Behavioral changes were reversible in 5/10 dogs. 15 of all examined dogs developed positive behavioral changes under treatment (eg, increased energy).

In conclusion, positive and negative behavioral changes under Levetiracetam treatment occur in dogs. Pre-existing behavioral problems should be taken into account, when deciding for Levetiracetam treatment and potential intensifying or change in the dogs' behavior should be discussed with the owners.

[P13]

Surgical resection as unique treatment of a cerebellar poorly differentiated glioma without signs of relapse 18 months after surgery Gliomas are infiltrative nervous system tumors that often migrate along white matter tracts beyond the initial location, making complete surgical excision difficult, and decreasing life expectancy in affected patients.

A 13-year-old neutered female mongrel weighing 27 kg was presented with a chronic history of incoordination and generalized tonicclonic seizures for two months. A brain computed tomography (CT) scan showed an isoattenuating intra-axial lesion with homogeneous contrast enhancement in the left cerebellar hemisphere consistent with neoplasia, and secondary hypertensive hydrocephalus.

A left occipitotemporal craniectomy was performed and all macroscopic tumor tissue was removed with histopathological diagnosis, showed a dense population of small and medium cells with round to oval nuclei and loose chromatin, with infiltrative growth pattern, increased vascularization and 90% of cells with diffuse immunopositivity against Olig-2 but absent to GFAP. On the basis of these findings, the tumor was classified as a poorly differentiated glial neoplasia. A CT scan 13 months later failed to reveal tumor regrowth; however, a pituitary mass was detected. Eighteen months postsurgery the patient remained seizure-free on antiepileptic treatment with a complete resolution of the initial neurological signs but showed left pelvic limb lameness due to cranial cruciate ligament rupture and postural reaction deficits and lumbar discomfort due to a suspected degenerative lumbosacral stenosis. The dog died 18 months after surgery of pericardial effusion due to a cardiac mass. Post-mortem examination was not granted.

The described case report represents an atypical case of a caudal fossa glioma excision with an exceptionally long survival time.

[P14]

Myeloct findings in five dogs and one cat with presumptive syringohydromyelia M. P. Sorolla-Casanova 1 , A. Farré Mariné 1 , A. Luján Feliu-Pascual 1 1

The objective of this study is to describe the myeloCT findings in eight dogs and one cat with syringohydromyelia.

Cases where collected retrospectively from the clinical database between December 2016 and January 2019 with the inclusion criteria of having syringohydromyelia diagnosed by myeloCT. Images were reviewed with the diagnostic criteria from previously described MRI findings. Iodinated contrast media was injected in the lumbar subarachnoid space or cerebellomedullary cistern and a helical CT-scan was used. A dilation that did not correspond to the fine line of the centromedullary canal was considered syringohydromyelia.

Nine animals with myeloCT scans consistent with syringohydromyelia regardless of other concomitant diseases were included. All animals showed a linear intramedullary cavity of variable length (one vertebral body to entire spinal cord) and diameter (1-4,5 mm). The cavity was filled with iodinated contrast appearing as a uniform hyperattenuating signal with or without an increased diameter of the spinal cord. Neurological deterioration only occurred in the cat from fecal incontinence only to non-ambulatory paraparesis.

The gold standard for the diagnosis of syringohydromyelia in human medicine is MRI and CT is considered obsolete. We have described its appearance in myeloCT as an intramedullary cavity with characteristics similar to those described in MRI that is filled homogeneously with contrast after subarachnoid injection.

Despite the limited number of cases and the lack of a histopathological diagnosis as with previous MRI studies, the results of our study suggest that myeloCT may be useful for the diagnosis of syringohydromyelia when MRI is not available. A 6-year-old male entire American Staffordshire was referred with a four-month history of balance loss and collapsing episodes with extensor rigidity. Neurological examination showed right head tilt, cerebellar ataxia and postural delay in both left limbs, localizing the lesion to the left central vestibular system (paradoxical) and cerebellum. A brain computed tomography (CT) scan showed an hypoattenuating lesion with peripheral contrast enhancement in the fourth ventricle consistent with a congenital cystic, and secondary hydrocephalus. Treatment with prednisone 0.5 mg/kg BID was initiated but despite an initial improvement, neurologic signs recurred and a suboccipital craniectomy was performed two months after diagnosis. Once the cyst was drained, the capsule was carefully removed. The complete structure was submitted for histopathological study, which revealed a simple cubic to cylindrical epithelium with apical cilia surrounded by a loose fibrillar tissue consistent with an intraventricular ependymal cyst. The patient was discharged four days post-surgery with nystagmus but being able to walk with little assistance. Six months post-surgery the neurological exam is normal and the episodes of collapse and nystagmus have resolved.

To the authors' knowledge, this is the first intraventricular ependymal cyst successfully removed in a dog. Since resection appears complete, long-term resolution is expected. In the dog, this reflexes has been determined to be present in nearly all patients, the border has been mapped, and it has established diagnostic and prognostic value. While the neurophysiology of the CTR has been described in the cat, no study has evaluated the reflex clinically.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the presence of the CTR in a population of neurologically abnormal cats in regard to age, sex, breed, body condition score (BCS), neurolocalization, and mentation.

A retrospective medical record review was performed to identify cats with a history of neurologic disease undergoing a complete neurological assessment between 9/24/2012 and 3/20/2019. Ethical permission was not required for this retrospective study, as the animals involved were cases presenting to the veterinary teaching hospital.

A total of 182 cats were identified. CTR outcome (present, absent), signalment, neurolocalization, mentation, and diagnosis were recorded. The CTR was present in 118 cats (64.8%) and absent in 64 cats (35.2%). Statistical analysis revealed no association between CTR outcome and age, sex, breed, BCS, neurolocalization, or mentation. These findings call into question whether the CTR can be consistently and reliably elicited in the cat and, ultimately, whether continued inclusion of the CTR in the cat neurologic examination provides a benefit over the potential for patient stress and irritation. Fresh CSF-samples (n = 43) were divided in two aliquots (native; stored in TransFix-tubes) and examined within 30 minutes, on day 1 and 3 after withdrawal using microscopic leucocyte-count and morphologic cell-assessment. Furthermore, leukocyte-spiked CSF-samples (n = 20; native/stored in TransFix-tubes) were analyzed using flow cytometry on four consecutive days. Antibodies against CD3, CD4 and CD21 (lymphocyte-marker), CD11b (granulocyte-marker), CD14

(monocyte-marker) and CD45 (panleukocyte-marker) were used to differentiate the cell populations.

After storage in TransFix-tubes, the leukocytes could not be adequately stained with Türck's solution and differentiating erythrocytes and leukocytes in the cytometer was difficult. In addition, the cell morphology could not be sufficiently assessed because of shrunken leukocytes and indistinct cell nuclei. However, using flow cytometry, a higher cell count was measured in samples stored in TransFix-tubes compared to native samples. The antibodies against CD3, CD4, CD21, CD11b and CD45 showed a good binding capacity and thus enabled differentiation of cell populations. Nevertheless, after storage in TransFix-tubes, monocytes were no longer detectable using an antibody against CD14.

In conclusion, TransFix-tubes can be used for extended storage prior to flow cytometric analysis of CSF-samples for the differentiation of lymphocyte and granulocyte populations, but not of monocytes.

Microscopic leucocyte-count and morphological cell assessment cannot be performed in the described stored samples. A 13-year-old Springer Spaniel was referred for a sudden onset of compulsive behavior. The dog was previously diagnosed with pituitary-dependent hyperadrenocorticism and a pituitary adenoma was detected by CT. The neurological examination revealed an anxious and compulsive behavior, internal ophthalmoplegia and bilaterally reduced menace response, suggesting a rostral and middle cranial fossa neurolocalization. The brain MRI showed a rounded welldefined pituitary mass, T2w, FLAIR and GE-T2* heterogeneously hyperintense, T1w iso/hypointense and moderately contrast enhancing. Within the mass parenchyma, two focal well-defined areas were detectable, one was T2w and T1w hyperintense, FLAIR isointese, mildly contrast enhancing and showed a signal void artifact in the GE-T2* sequence, compatible with late subacute hemorrhage; the second was T2w hypointese, T1w, FLAIR and GE-T2* iso/hypointese and moderately enhancing compatible with acute hemorrhage. In the ADC map, generated from DWI sequence, the second lesion corresponded to a region of restricted water diffusion. After 24-hours the dog recovered, but mild internal ophthalmoplegia was still present.

To our knowledge, this is the first report describing MRI findings in a dog with PA. Neurologic signs in dogs with PA can be temporary and may improve. In cases of suspected PA, MRI is particularly useful for early detection of acute pituitary infarction and/or hemorrhage. Non-secretory MM is extremely rare in canine medicine and the presence of signs of thoraco-lumbar myelopathy multiple spinal cord compression due to myelomatous masses are unusual as well. In similar cases, CT gives the advantages to produce a full-body scanning with optimal visualization of bone lysis and spinal cord compressions.

[P23]

Acquired myasthenia gravis and myocarditis secondary to a thymoma in a dog Canine thymomas are associated with multiple paraneoplastic syndromes, amongst which myasthenia gravis is the most common.

Acquired myasthenia Gravis (MG) is an autoimmune disease characterized by the presence of antibodies against acetylcholine receptors (AChRs). AChRs antibodies are the most commonly formed, but the production of antistriational antibodies, binding to skeletal and cardiac muscle proteins has also been recorded both in humans and dogs. An association between the occurrence of antistriational antibodies and giant cell myocarditis (GCM) has been described in humans, where GCM concurrent to thymoma-associated MG is a well-recognized syndrome. Our purpose is to describe a case of a dog with thymomaassociated MG and myocarditis.

A 4-year-old mixed-breed dog was referred because of one-month history of exercise-induced weakness, hypersalivation and regurgita- and S100 were negative, favoring a diagnosis of poorly differentiated hemangiosarcoma.

In conclusion, primary epidural hemangiosarcoma with polyostotic vertebral extension and pulmonary metastatic disease should be considered as a differential for extradural neoplasia.

[P26] These features were interpreted as probable epidural hematoma.

Investigations into coagulopathy were negative. The mass was removed surgically. Histopathology was consistent with a round cell neoplasm and associated hemorrhage. Cytology of lymph node aspirates was consistent with lymphoma. Chemotherapy was initiated;

however, the dog did not respond to treatment and was euthanized 4 days later. This case report highlights the potential for neoplasia to be a cause of epidural hemorrhage in animals without coagulopathy.

[P28] Establishing the underlying diagnosis for cats presenting with vestibular disease from clinical features alone is difficult, however discrete features can be used to guide veterinary surgeons evaluating these cases.

[P30]

Cardiac troponin I levels in dogs with idiopathic epilepsy and status epilepticus To the best of our knowledge this is the first record of multiple cervical hemivertebra in dogs. The clinical relevance of these imaging findings remains uncertain. It can be hypothesized that changes in cervical biomechanics led to the described adjacent chronic intervertebral disc degeneration, protrusion and spinal cord compression.

[P32]

Probable sudden unexpected death in dogs with epilepsy In human medicine, the risk for SUDEP was estimated to be 7-12%.

pSUDEP occurs in a similar incidence rate as in human SUDEP and is not considered to be a rare condition in epileptic dogs.

[P33]

Successful management of chloralose-intoxication in three cats causing status epilepticus and myoclonus [P34]

Congenital meningocele with associated tension pneumocephalus in a 5 year-old greyhound To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case report of a traumatic OCF in a dog. The dog only presented with severe neck pain, as is described in human literature, however neurological deficits can be present in up to 20% of humans with OCF. Medical management can result in good outcomes in human patients, but a long period of strict rest and immobilization should be provided. Canine CNS GCTs are mainly identified within the suprasellar region in young to middle-aged dogs (range 1-6 years). Treatment protocols for human CNS GCT have consisted of chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or a combination of both. We present a partial response to treatment with vincristine and lomustine in a case of a intracranial germinoma.

A 4-year-old male mixed dog was presented for a two days history of bilateral mydriasis and acute blindness. Cranial computed tomography was performed, where a homogeneous, broad-based, slightly hyperattenuating extra-axial mass (2,0 cm DV x 3,5 cm LL x 3,6 cm RtCd) at the skull floor was detected. The mass showed homogeneous enhancement in postcontrast series. Presumptive diagnosis was an extraxial neoplasm (meningioma, lymphoma, ependymoma, granular and GCT). Due to financial issues chemotherapy was elected and vincristine (0,7 mg/m 2 ) was initially administered IV. One week later, mydriasis and blindness had disappeared, and the mass had decreased in volume (0,9 cm DV x 2,5 cm LL x 2,6 cm RtCd). An alternating protocol with vincristine and lomustine (60 mg /m 2 ) every 15 days was established. Three months later, the clinical signs reappeared and owners decided euthanasia. A germinoma was confirmed at necropsy.

To our knowledge, this is the first case of intracranial germinoma in a dog with chemotherapy partial response.

[P40]

Interrupted aortic arch as a vascular malformation in a cane corso dog causing cervical myelopathy In accordance with previous speculation in the literature, it is possible that the scoliosis in these dogs resulted from damage to neurons within the gray matter and subsequent asymmetrical loss of sensory input from neuromuscular spindles, altering muscle tone and causing the acute onset of signs.

These two cases present a previously unreported cause of acute onset, resolving cervical scoliosis in dogs. The characteristic findings in these dogs suggest that an acute onset of cervical scoliosis may be associated with a neuroanatomical localisation to the cranial cervical spinal cord gray matter, and that a diagnosis of inflammatory CNS disease should be considered. Presence of more severe neurologic deficits, as well as chronicity and severity of compressive lesion were associated with SCSC in dogs with CSM.

[P45]

Characterization of magnetic resonance imaging findings in dogs with osseous-associated cervical spondylomyelopathy (92 cases Fourteen dogs were included in the study. The mean age at first MC was 7.5 years. The MCs frequency varied from ten episodes daily to one every three months. In the majority of the cases MCs were multiple in a day and only in 2 dogs occurred occasionally. The duration varied from few second to 15-20 minutes.

Four dogs exhibited MCs without exercise, 8 when stressed or excited and for two dogs this information was not available. In 8 dogs these events were painful, while 6 dogs showed no pain.

The cause of MCs was hypocalcemia in 11 dogs (in 9 cases due to primary hypoparatiroidism). In 3 dogs the cause was not identified. Eleven dogs were treated with calcium, owner reported that they no longer showed MCs. In 3 dogs, MCs disappeared without therapy.

In conclusion our results suggest that MCs not always appear as painful events. The main cause of MCs in our dogs was hypocalcemia consequent to primary hypoparatiroidism.

[P49] Treatment of recurrent steroid responsive meningitis-arteritis in dogs using a combination of prednisolone and cytosine arabinoside We report four dogs where a combination of 3D-printed patientspecific drill guides, polyaxial locking (PAX) plates and novel tubing drill stops were used to attempt spinal stabilization. The instabilities were secondary to discospondylitis (one thoracic, one lumbo-sacral) or congenital malformation (one thoracic ventro-dorsal wedge vertebrae, one thoraco-lumbar hemi-vertebrae).

Computed tomography (CT) allowed planning of safe drill and screw trajectories and guide manufacture using computer-aided design (CAD) software. In the thoracic malformation case, CT of a 3D-print of the spine, with pre-contoured PAX plates in-situ, permitted CAD planning of safe trajectories intersecting plate holes and subsequent guide design. Desired screw length was measured on 3D models, and tubing drill stops used to halt the drill at the planned depth. The PAX system was used for stabilization.

Complete implementation was possible in three of four cases. On the lumbo-sacral case drilling and screw placement was successful; however, once distraction was achieved the screws did not intersect with the plate holes. Polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) was instead used for stabilization. This technique of spinal stabilization shows promise, increasing safety of screw placement and eliminating potential side-effects associated with PMMA.

[P51] Acute neurological signs in dogs with pyometra: 3 cases C. Maeso 1 , C. Morales 1 , P. Montoliu 1 1 Hospital Ars Veterinaria, Barcelona, Spain Encephalomyelitis associated to infectious diseases in other systems has been described in humans. We report 3 dogs that presented for neurologic signs and were diagnosed with pyometra.

A 7-year-old female Chihuahua was presented for focal seizures that appeared in clusters 3 days before presentation. Neurological exam disclosed depression and pelvic limb ataxia. Pyometra was detected on abdominal ultrasound (US). Ovariohysterectomy (OHE) was performed and 2 days later brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) disclosed a well-defined T2/FLAIR hyperintense lesion in the right hippocampus. Cerebrospinal fluid was normal. No additional seizures were observed after OHE.

A 6-year-old female Golden Retriever presented for acute left central vestibular signs. Brain MRI was normal. Abdominal US disclosed pyometra. OHE was performed, and progressive improvement of vestibular signs was observed during the following 15 days.

A 12-year-old female French Bulldog presented for acute onset of right circling, tetraparesis and ataxia. Pyometra was diagnosed on abdominal US. MRI disclosed subcortical white matter T2/FLAIR hyperintensity in the right frontal lobe. Anti-inflammatory doses of prednisolone were administered and tapered during 4 weeks. Progressive recovery of neurological signs was observed after OHE and no relapses were reported.

These 3 cases suggest a relationship between pyometra and acute onset of neurological signs, as other specific causes were ruled out and all dogs progressively improved after OHE without additional specific treatment.

Possible mechanisms include septic-associated encephalopathy (pro-inflammatory mediators causing neuronal dysfunction, altered blood-brain barrier and impairment of microvascular system), and para-infectious encephalopathy, an autoimmune demyelinating disorder associated to extraneural infections in humans. Strong predisposition has toy breed dogs such as Yorkshire terrier 37%, Chihuahua 28%, and Pomeranians 11%. According to the analysis of survival, Pugs 6.5% had the shortest lifespan (median 78 days).

The analyzed symptoms did not affect survival time. The pattern, size, and area of the MRI abnormalities also did not affect the life expectancy. The majority of animals received polytherapy, we did not find a significant difference between poly-and monotherapy. For the treatment mainly used drugs in combination, such as Methylprednisolone or Prednisolone, Azathioprine, Cyclosporine, Cytarabine. Azathioprine had a statistically significant effect on life expectancy (median 2222 days). Cyclosporine also had a strong effect on life expectancy although smaller than azathioprine (median 1001 days). Analysis of the combined use of these drugs showed the best results.

Overall, our results indicated that pugs have the shortest lifespan; azathioprine and cyclosporine are the most effective drugs for treating MUO either alone or in combination.

A qualitative exploration of owner decision-making and use of adjunctive treatments in the management of canine idiopathic epilepsy 

and veterinary-prescribed anti-epileptic drugs remain the mainstay of treatment. However, it is known that some owners choose to use alternative or adjunctive therapies. There has been little investigation into influences on owner decision-making regarding IE management.

This study aimed to explore the use of adjunctive therapies by owners of dogs with IE in the United Kingdom (UK).

Semi-structured interviews were conducted with UK-based owners of dogs with IE, whose diagnosis was consistent with a Tier I confidence level (International Veterinary Epilepsy Task Force 2015), or made following MRI. A purposive sampling frame was constructed to capture maximum variation of owner experiences. Interviews were transcribed and thematically analyzed to construct key themes. Ethical approval was granted by the Royal Veterinary College, UK.

Twenty-one interviews were conducted. Almost all owners used adjunctive management techniques, such as herbal remedies, dietary modification, or ocular compression, but few discussed these with their vet. Many expressed increased motivation to perform their own research following negative experiences in a veterinary consultation.

Fear of negative impacts of conventional medications, and desperation for seizure control, were additional motivators.

Undisclosed use of adjunctive treatments in IE management appears widespread. This research suggests that in order to promote veterinary involvement in decision-making, owners should be actively engaged in discussion regarding risks and benefits of adjunctive treatments. It also demonstrates the need for greater empathy with owners, many of whose lives are negatively emotionally and socially impacted by their dog having IE.

[P54]

Serological prevalence of toxoplasma GONDII and Neospora caninum in dogs with suspected tier 1 (or higher) idiopathic epilepsy in a UK referral population Previous titer guidelines were used to group dogs as exposed or having active infection for each protozoal disease, and a confidence interval of 95% of the proportion of dogs in each group was calculated.

1.9% (0.58-5%) of dogs were exposed (IFA titer >50) to N. Caninum and 0.97% (0.04-3.7%) were classed as active infection (IFA titer ≥800). 6.7% (4.0-11.1%) were exposed (IgG > 1:50) to T. Gondii and 0.48% (<0.01-2.9%) were classed as active infection (IgG >1:400 and/or IgM >1:64). Follow up data was obtained through telephone conversation with referring veterinarians. None of the exposed dogs had repeated serology and none of them developed new neurological signs which could be explained by a multifocal lesion within the cen- There is little evidence from our study population that the 'active' dogs progressed to encephalomyelitis and thus the distinction used between active infection and exposure may not be relevant in this study. We conclude from this extremely low prevalence, that not measuring antibody titer levels for T. Gondii and/or N. caninum in dogs fitting tier 1 definitions for idiopathic epilepsy, carries a low risk of missing a diagnosis of protozoal encephalitis. Intradural disc extrusion (IIDE) is defined as intervertebral disc nucleus pulposus displacement into the dural sac and is considered rare with a prevalence of 0.5% in dogs. Identification of IIDE pre-operatively is challenging as the diagnostic imaging characteristics are difficult to distinguish from simple disc extrusion. Diagnosis is typically suspected intraoperatively when less than expected amount of extruded disc material is found, after identification of an abnormal appearance of the dura, and confirmed following durotomy. This case report describes an 11-year-old male neutered dachshund presented on two occasions five months apart with history of acute onset progressive ambulatory paraparesis. At each visit high-field MRI and site-specific hemilaminectomy and durotomy were performed with removed intradural material confirmed as extruded nucleus pulposus on histopathology.

High-field T2W images revealed a single focal mildly (60-65%) compressive intradural extramedullary hyperintense lesion initially on the left at L2-L3 and at second presentation at L3-L4 on the right. The lesions could not be identified as intradural in location pre-operatively despite the use of high-field MRI imaging. This patient was hypothesized to have a predisposition for intradural disc herniation due to suspected chronic adhesions of the ventral dural sac and the dorsal longitudinal ligament and anulus fibrosis.

This report highlights that IIDE may occur in the same patient more than once. IIDE should be suspected on MRI if a focal compressive intradural extramedullary hyperintense lesion is found, or intraoperatively when less than the expected amount of disc material is found or when focal dural discoloration is present. To the author's knowledge, this is the first report describing the MRI findings in a dog with widespread lymphoma affecting the optic chiasma and optic nerves. Dogs with peripheral or central vestibular disease that had undergone magnetic resonance imaging of the head and CSF analysis were included in this retrospective study. After reviewing the medical records, included dogs (n = 102), with presumed central (n = 53) or peripheral (n = 49) vestibular signs were divided into one of the following groups: idiopathic vestibular disease, meningoencephalitis of unknown origin (MUO), brain neoplasia, ischemic infarct, intracranial empyema, metronidazole toxicity, otitis media/interna and neoplasia affecting the middle/inner ear. CSF result were recorded, which included total nucleated cell count (TNCC), total protein (TP) and cytology.

Sensitivity of TNCC to predict central vestibular syndrome was 50.9% with a specificity of 87.8% whereas TP had a sensitivity and specificity of 61.2%. TNCC was significantly influenced by the underlying diagnosis (P < 0.001). Dogs with intracranial empyema were more likely to have an increased TNCC compared to dogs with MUO (P = 0.030) and idiopathic vestibular syndrome (P = <0.001). Dogs with MUO were more likely to have increased TNCC than dogs with idiopathic vestibular syndrome (P = 0.003). Dogs with brain neoplasia and intracranial empyema were significantly more likely to have an increased TP level than dogs with ischemic infarct (P = 0.010, P = 0.044).

This study suggests that CSF analysis can provide clinically useful information in dogs with central vestibular syndrome, suspected intracranial empyema and MUO.

[P59] Persistent urinary retention due to a severe generalized tetanus in a cat treated successfully with sphincterotomy C. Tästensen 1 , S. Buchheim 1 , A. Steinmetz 1 , S. Gutmann 1 1 Department of Small Animal Medicine, University of Leipzig, Germany

Cats are more resistant to tetanus than other species. However, when infection occurs, cats more frequently develop the local form of tetanus. In this case report a cat with severe generalized tetanus and a complication of persistent urinary retention is described.

A four-year-old, male, domestic shorthair cat was presented in lateral recumbency with rigidity in all four limbs. The left forelimb showed a large infected wound with exposed parts of the radius and ulna. The patient received wound revision with osteostixis after infection was under control, tetanus antitoxin, antibiotics (metronidazole, amoxicillin-clavulanic acid), sedatives (medetomidine, butorphanol), muscle relaxants (diazepam, methocarbamol, magnesium) and analgetics (buprenorphine, meloxicam). Supportive care included nutrition through a PEG-tube and bladder emptying through an indwelling catheter. Daily wound management was necessary. After seven days of treatment the cat's status improved increasingly. Voluntary movement returned, the cat was able to walk three weeks after presentation.

During hospitalization the cat developed complications including hyperthermia, bradycardia, bacterial cystitis and anemia due to chronic mycoplasma infection, so doxycycline was added. The cat had fully recovered except for persistent urinary retention. Further three weeks of treatment (alfuzosin, myocholine, diazepam, repeated catheterization) showed no improvement. Therefore sphincterotomy of the bladder neck and proximal urethra was performed. The catheter was left seven more days. Nine days after sphincterotomy the cat was able to urinate independently and was discharged eight weeks after presentation.

To the authors´knowledge, this is the first report of persistent urinary retention due to a generalized tetanus successfully treated with sphincterotomy.

[P60]

Recurrence of clinical signs after surgery for intervertebral disk extrusion in French bulldogs This study suggests a high rate of recurrence of clinical signs after surgery for IVDE in FBs. These results can potentially be explained by breed-specific factors, the fact that dogs with both cervical and thoracolumbar IVDE were included and that prophylactic fenestrations were not routinely performed. Lesions affecting the lower motor neurons or muscles of bilateral thoracic limbs were suspected; inflammatory, infectious and neoplastic conditions were considered.

Complete blood count and serum biochemistry revealed a neutrophilic leucocytosis and marked hypoalbuminemia. MRI of the cervical vertebral column and brachial plexi were obtained, revealing a focal illdefined tubular thickening in the region of the left brachial plexus and diffuse edema of bilateral cervical, thoracic and axillary soft tissue structures. Infectious disease testing was negative and no evidence of primary or metastatic neoplasia was found on thoracic CT and abdominal ultrasonography. An immune-mediated condition was considered the primary differential.

Rapidly escalating analgesia was initially required to control the marked hyperesthesia. Following four days of medical treatment with amoxicillin/clavulanate and corticosteroids, neurological examination was normal with no evidence of hyperesthesia. A tapering protocol of prednisolone over 6 months was implemented and 3 months following completion of this protocol the patient was clinically normal with no evidence of recurrence.

Bilateral dysfunction of brachial plexus is uncommon in the canine population. To the authors' knowledge; this is the third case of bilateral brachial plexus neuritis reported in dogs and the first to achieve complete resolution.

Use of high-definition video telescope for treatment of brain tumors in 6 cases N. Martínez Gallarte 1 , S. Ródenas González 1,2 1 Resonancia Magnetica Veterinaria, Sevilla, Spain, 2 Service of Neurology and Neurosurgery of Animal Bluecare, Mijas (Málaga), Spain

The use of high-definition video-telescopes with an additional lighting system (VITOM) has been sporadically reported in veterinary medicine in spinal surgery. To the author's knowledge the use of VITOM in intracranial surgery has only been described in animals in one study of transphenoidal surgery.

The aims of these case series are: to evaluate the use of the VITOM system in a population of dogs and cats with brain tumors that underwent intracranial surgery, to compare surgical findings and surgical risks with a group of five cases that underwent similar intracranial procedures with no VITOM.

Six cases (2 cats and 4 dogs) assisted by VITOM were included: a cat with skull neoplasia (osteochondroma) affecting the frontotemporal bone and caudal fossa, 1 cat with fronto/temporal meningioma, 2 dogs with olfactory/frontal meningioma, and 2 dogs with fronto-temporal neoplasia (meningioma, glioma).

Control group (5 animals However, these diseases have very different prognosis and treatment.

The use of advanced magnetic resonance techniques, such as diffusion-weighted imaging and perfusion-weighted imaging could be utilized to improve our ability to diagnose these three different diseases. Here we report a case of an adult cat that had a progressive clinical history to obtundation. Conventional MRI suggested a cerebral abscess but cyst and neoplasia could not be reliably ruled out.

Diffusion-weighted imaging showed a highly restrictive diffusivity within the mass-lesion. Dynamic susceptibility contrast imaging revealed an absence in relative cerebral blood volume in the entirety of the mass. These additional sequences significantly increased the confidence in determining the imaging diagnosis of a cerebral abscess.

Congenital caudal fossa asymmetry in dogs: Estimation of prevalence and description of the affected population A total of 3012 dogs underwent a full MRI study of the head. CCFA was reported in 125 patients. The prevalence of CCFA was 4.2% (95% confidence interval 3.5%, 4.9%; n = 125/3012) over 9 years.

The median age at presentation was 6 years (interquartile range 3 to 8 years). Brachycephalic breeds represented 47.2% of the population, with the most commonly represented breeds being Boxers (15.2%) and French bulldogs (9.6%). In the majority (78.4%) of cases the neurological signs at time of MRI were consistent with a forebrain neurolocalization rather than a caudal fossa neurolocalization. In the remaining 21.6% of cases a primary lesion was identified to explain the neurological signs.

CCFA is an uncommon malformation which can be identified in dogs undergoing MRI of the brain. In this study the presenting neurological signs were not associated with the presence of CCFA. For this reason CCFA is likely to be an incidental finding and other causes for the neurological signs should be investigated. A 6-month-old female shorthair cat was referred for a chronic history (2 months) of adipsia, changes in behavior and ataxia. Complete bloodwork (including FIV/FeLV) only revealed severe hypernatremia.

Serum bile acid levels, somatomedin C, thyroxine, cortisol and plasma/ urine organic amino acids were normal. Brain MRI revealed bilateral symmetrical lesions at the level of the caudate, thalamic, and mesencephalic nuclei suggesting a metabolic/toxic/nutritional disease.

Results of CSF analysis including PCR for Toxoplasma and Coronavirus were normal. Treatment with vitamins B1/B12 did not result in improvement of clinical signs. Three months later the cat was euthanatized because of worsening of neurological signs.

Post mortem evaluation revealed multifocal bilateral symmetrical lesions in gray matter of the cerebral and cerebellar cortices, and basal, thalamic and mesencephalic nuclei. In the neocortex, the lesional pattern presented a laminar distribution, characterized by a spongiotic aspect of the neuropil (loose of neuronal bodies) associated to a prominent astrocytic and microglia response with marked capillary proliferation. This lesional pattern together with the age of the animal was consistent with a congenital metabolic disease affecting mainly neurons (mitochondrial disease).

To the authors' knowledge this is the first report of multifocal necrotizing poliencephalopathy resembling mitochondrial encephalopathy associated with adipsia in a cat. This report suggests that MRI examination should be considered in the diagnosis of adipsia and hypernatremia in young cats. Six dogs, 4-8 y.o. (mean 6,2, median 6,5), 5-18 kg (mean 9,3, median 7), were qualified for the study. All animals were directed to the decompressive spinal surgery due to the intervertebral disc herniation (IVDH) (3xC2-3, Th11-12, L3-L4, L4-L5). DTI was performed with a 1,5 Tesla magnetic resonance scanner (Philips, Ingenia) directly before and 7 to 10 days after the surgery. Two DTI parameters: fractional anisotropy (FA) and apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) were measured in three places: 1. compression sites, 2. one segment cranially and 3. one segment caudally from the spinal cord injury (SCI). The neurological status (Sharp and Wheeler 2005 score) before and after surgery was compared. The collected values were subjected to statistical analysis.

The neurological status improved from the paresis grade 2 or 3, one or two points higher in all cases. ADC values measured at the SCI increased after the procedure compared to the pre-operative values (P = 0,037). Conversely, caudal from SCI, ADC values after surgery decreased (P = 0,005). The ADC value at the cranial to lesion site, as far as all three FA measurement values did not significantly changed.

Findings suggest that DTI is a reliable tool for the canine spinal cord condition assessment, as ADC parameters positively correlated with a clinical assessment. DTI values measurements may provide more objective spinal cord status assessment.

[P71]

Multifocal nephroblastoma in a 7-month-old female golden retriever. A 7-month-old female Golden Retriever was presented due to a sudden onset of non-ambulatory paraparesis. One day before presentation, the owner noticed difficulties in the pelvic limbs when walking and in getting up. No improvement was achieved after initial treatment with meloxicam and glucocorticoids given by the referring veterinarian.

Neurological examination revealed paraplegia, questionable deep pain perception, absent proprioception and reduced flexor reflexes in the pelvic limbs. Neuroanatomical localisation was L4-S3 spinal cord segment.

Intervertebral disc extrusion, spinal cord infarct, neoplasm and congenital malformation were considered as differential diagnoses and MRI, CT and CSF examination were performed.

MRI showed multiple T1w-and T2w-hypointense, contrast-enhancing, intradural-extramedullar structures at the level of L3 vertebral body, found as well as in spleen, kidneys, subcutaneous fatty tissue and intra-abdominally without clear allocation. CT was performed and showed additional lesions in the left nasal cavity, liver, mediastinal and abdominal lymph nodes. CSF revealed increased protein of 1.53 g/L and TNCC of 24/μl (72% mononuclear cells, 28% highly segmented neutrophils). Tru-cut-biopsies of kidney and spleen were sent for immunohistochemic investigation. Nephroblastoma was confirmed as the result.

Considering the severity of symptoms and poor prognosis, the owners decided for euthanasia. A full post mortem investigation was declined by the owner. Six dogs and one cat were enrolled in this study. In 3/7 cases SEE was secondary to a previous disk surgery. In 3/7 cases the origin of the SEE was undetermined and 1/7 due to a foreign body. Bacteria isolated from purulent material collected at surgery were Pseudomona spp. (4), E coli, Staphylococcus intermedius and Enterococcus spp., with different ranges of sensitivity to antibiotics. Neurological signs ranged from paraplegia with deep pain perception to ambulatory paresis. Pain was present in all cases. Four patients underwent spinal MRI and 3 spinal CT. In 6/7 patients, stabilization was achieved with pins and methacrylate and in one patient with a locked plate. Successful outcome was achieved in 6/7 patients (6 months follow up). One dog was euthanatized because of worsening of clinical signs.

Results of this study suggest that patients with SEE with suspected or proven instability and spinal cord compression have good prognosis with early surgical intervention with decompressive surgery and associated stabilization and long-term antibiotic administration.

[P73]

Evaluation of a radiographic diagnostic method for canine atlantoaxial instability This retrospective study aimed to establish a radiographic diagnostic method for canine atlantoaxial instability (AAI).

Firstly, six parameters regarding distance between atlas and axis on extension and flexion lateral radiographs were evaluated. Only certain small breeds were included. All parameters were compared between radiographs of 10 MRI-diagnosed AAI dogs and 30 MRI-excluded AAI dogs to select parameters with better diagnostic value. Secondly, the diagnostic performance of different combinations of selected parameters were analyzed. Based on the positive likelihood ratio (LR), each measurement was given a score. The total score of the combination of selected parameters were analyzed, to determine the combination with highest area under curve, named as AAI diagnostic system.

Thirdly, this diagnostic system was evaluated by using the radiographs of dogs in previous analysis, 10 dogs with clinical diagnosis of AAI, and 10 more MRI-excluded AAI dogs.

According to the area under curve, three parameters showed acceptable to outstanding discrimination in both extension and flexion radiographs. Furthermore, the combination of distance of atlantoaxial joint and distance between cranial border of atlas and cranial border of axis in both extension and flexion radiographs showed the best diagnostic performance. Further analysis for this diagnostic system revealed the optimal cut-off point was 6.5. When the total score is 7, its LR+ was >10, indicating AAI. When the total score is 4, its LR-was <0.1, ruling out AAI.

This study established a radiographic-based AAI diagnostic method, which can be used as an objective diagnostic tool for certain breeds. Primary and secondary intracranial neoplasias were diagnosed in 86.67% and 13.33% of patients, respectively. Gliomas (42,92%) were the most common primary neoplasia in our population, and grade III oligodendroglioma (22.5%) was the most frequently diagnosed.

Meningiomas (31.25%) were the second more common primary tumors. Secondary neoplasias were identified in 13.33% of patients, and carcinomas (37.5%) were the most prevalent tumors.

French bulldogs (60.31%), and meningioma in crossbreds (43.39%).

The most common location was supratentorial (83.05%), followed by infratentorial (8.89%) and multifocal (8.05%).

Primary neoplasias are more common than secondary brain neoplasias as reported in previous studies, but in our population, gliomas and not meningiomas are the most common primary intracranial neoplasms.

The high prevalence of gliomas can presumably be caused by the increasing popularity of French bulldogs in our country.

[P75]

Investigation of relation between increased intracranial pressure and MRI findings in dogs with brain glioma N. Tanaka 1,2 , D. Ito 1 , C. Ishikawa 1 , N. Sekiguchi 1 , M. Kitagawa 1 1 School of Veterinary Medicine, Nihon University, Kameino, Fujisawa, Kanagawa, Japan, 2 Grace animal hospital, Ogikubo, Suginamiku, Tokyo, Japan

Increased intracranial pressure (ICP) is noteworthy finding and necessary information for treatment in cases with brain tumor. Because direct measurement of ICP would be invasive, suggestive methods to estimate ICP such as neurological signs and/or MRI findings had been reported. These non-invasive methods might give helpful idea of actual ICP, however there is no previous reports which compared with actual ICP. Therefore the purpose of this retrospective study is to compare actual ICP and MRI findings with neurological signs.

Ten brachycephalic dogs which were presented to Animal Medical Center at Nihon University and histopathologically diagnosed/ suspected were included. All dogs underwent MRI and craniotomy for excision of brain tumor. Before craniotomy, ICP were measured using ICP sensor kit. On MRI, twenty one findings which were thought to be relating with increased ICP were evaluated and compared with measured ICP in each dog.

In five dogs, ICP was over 20 mmHg (mean 33.2) and those in remaining five dogs was under 10 mmHg (mean 4.8). Significant differences on MRI findings between dogs with elevated and normal ICP were caudal transtentorial herniation, deformation of interthalamic adhesion, straight/flattened shape of rostral cerebellar contour, effacement of the cerebral sulci and syringohydromyelia.

It has been reported that caudal transtentorial herniation, deformation of interthalamic adhesion, effacement of the cerebral sulci and syringomyelia might be findings of increased ICP, similar to our study. Therefore these MRI findings plus neurological symptoms including depressed consciousness and anisocoria would be reliable signs of increased ICP.

[P76]

Cobblestone malformation (lissencephaly type II) in a CAT; clinical, magnetic resonance imaging and histopathological findings S. Rodenas 1 , E. Blasco 2 , S. Moya 1 , M. Pumarola 2 1 Service of Neurology and Neurosurgery of Referral Hospital Animal Bluecare, Mijas (Málaga), Spain, 2 Unit of Murine and Comparative Pathology, Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona. Barcelona, Spain Neuronal migration disorders have been sporadically reported in cats. Cobblestone brain malformations (lissencephaly type II) are due to neuroglial overmigration into the arachnoid space resulting in the formation of an extracortical neuroglial layer. A large number of structural proteins have been implicated in this malformation in humans.

This report describes the clinical signs, MRI image and neuropathological findings of this disorder in a young cat. In humans beings, this malformation has been associated with hydrocephalus, hypoplasia of the cerebellum, brain stem and corpus callosum.

A 9-months-old female shorthair cat was referred for a 3-months history of behavioral changes and epileptic seizures. Neurological examination was consistent with a prosencephalic lesion. Complete bloodwork including FeLV/FIV, CSF analysis and PCR for Toxoplasma and Coronavirus did not reveal abnormalities. Brain MRI revealed mild hydrocephalus and hypoplasia of the corpus callosum.

There was worsening of neurological signs and the animal was euthanatized.

Postmortem examination revealed grossly a generalized, bilateral and symmetrical disorganization of the cerebral cortex which adopted and irregular appearance reminiscent of a cobblestone street. The cerebral cortex showed a highly disorganized structure (areas with no recognizable lamination). In affected areas small breeches in the pial-glial limitans were present, with neuroglial tissue extending over the surface of the brain forming a type of rind. The cerebellar cortex had a moderate disorganization of its layered cortex. All these findings were confirmed by immunohistochemical techniques.

To the authors' knowledge this is the first report of cobblestone brain malformation in a cat.

Clinical presentation, clinical findings, treatment and outcome in two cats with suspected paroxysmal dyskinesia-dystonia C. Maeso 1 , Morales C 1 1 Service of Neurology and Neurosurgery of Ars Veterinaria Hospital, Barcelona, Spain

Paroxysmal dyskinesia-dystonia (PDD) are a group of hyperkinetic movement disorders well described in human and dogs. It is a heterogeneous group of disorders and little is known about these pathologies. The purpose of this case report is to describe clinical presentation, findings, and outcome of PDD in two cats.

A 1-year-old, neutered female domestic short-haired cat and a 2-yearold, neutered female sphynx cat were enrolled in this study. Both cats had self-limiting episodes similar to focal epileptic seizure, consistent with dystonic movements mainly in forelimbs, incoordination, preserved consciousness, and absence of autonomic signs, with a duration between 1-5 minutes. Physical and neurological examination, and diagnostic tests revealed no abnormalities (cell blood count, biochemistry, abdominal and cardiac ultrasound, magnetic resonance and cerebrospinal fluid analysis). Presumed diagnoses of PDD were made. Treatment in both cases consisted in a diet change, and in both cats, an improvement of frequency of these episodes were achieved.

Another 2 cats were diagnosed as having PDD. They are not included because of concomitant disorders or lack of follow-up, however, they did not improve with phenobarbital treatment.

In the authors knowledge, PDD are not described in cats. Therefore, this is the first case report describing PDD in cats. Moreover, this study emphasizes the importance of recognizing PDD in cats presenting with apparent focal seizure. As in dogs, a change in diet could be recommended as the initial option in some cases. Further studies with more cases are necessary to define and understand this wide group of disorders in deep. This is the first report of a feline intraventricular cystic lesion. Differential diagnosis includes a choroid plexus cyst, arachnoid diverticula, cystic midline brain malformation, or an epidermoid cyst. Only two canine cases of intraventricular choroid plexus cysts have been reported and treatment consensus has not been currently reached. As expected, our case suggests that endoscopic-guided drainage on its own is not an adequate treatment for long-term management. Only one dog suffering from MO has been previously described, which was diagnosed with neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis. Another dog was reported with opsoclonus of presumed idiopathic origin. The dog presented here showed involuntary eye movements consistent with MO, absence of diagnostic abnormalities and spontaneous resolution. This case supports that idiopathic abnormal saccadic oscillations may occur in dogs with spontaneous recovery after 2-3 weeks.

[P80]

Presumptive primary intradural adenocarcinoma in a cat M. Gago 1 , J. Tabanez 1 , R. Fernandes 1 , J. Rose 1,2 , C. Rusbridge 1,3 , C. Driver 1,2 1 Fitzpatrick Referrals Ltd., Eashing, Godalming, Surrey, GU7 2QQ, UK, 2 Lumbry Park Veterinary Specialists, Selborne Road, Alton, Hampshire, GU34 3HL, UK, 3 Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Surrey School of Veterinary Medicine, UK

The aim of our report is to describe the presentation, treatment and survival time of a cat with a presumptive primary intradural adenocarcinoma.

A 10-year-old male neutered Russian Blue cat was presented with a 2 month history of right pelvic limb monoparesis that progressed to non-ambulatory paraparesis.

Spinal MRI revealed a well-demarcated, compressive intradural lesion that was isointense on T2-weighted and T1-weighted sequences, at the level of T1. There was diffuse marked contrast enhancement post-gadolinium administration. A dorsal C7-T2 laminectomy and durotomy were performed and the mass resected with a good dissection plane. Histopathology was consistent with an adenocarcinoma which is typically an invasive, metastatic neoplasm in cats, with the presence of fine apical cilia originating a suspicion of pulmonary primary neoplasm.

Intradural extramedullary tumors are commonly either peripheral nerve sheath tumors (neurofibromas or schwanomas) or meningiomas.

Full body CT with contrast did not identify an additional primary location (lungs, thyroid and anal glands). Biopsies of the nasal cavity and fine needle aspiration of the spleen and liver were unremarkable.

Follow-up evaluation was performed at 3 and 14 months, revealed subtle ataxia with functional improvement. In humans with spinal metastatic carcinoma, 13.4% have unknown primary sites and survival is associated with aggressiveness and presence of visceral metastasis.

To the authors' knowledge, this is the first report of an intra-dural extramedullary adenocarcinoma in a cat with unidentifiable primary site.

[P81]

Atypical presentation of polyneuropathy secondary to leishmania infantum in a dog A 4-year-old male Yorkshire Terrier was referred for a 6-month history of weight loss, bilateral temporalis muscle atrophy, and 4 days history of inability to close the mouth. Neurological examination was consistent with bilateral trigeminal bilateral neuropathy.

Complete bloodwork, thoracic radiographs and abdominal ultrasound did not reveal abnormalities. Brain magnetic resonance and Cerebrospinal fluid analysis did not reveal significant abnormalities. A presumptive diagnosis of idiopathic trigeminal neuropathy was made, and the dog was discharged with nutritional supportive treatment.

Two weeks later, clinical signs progressed to a flaccid non-ambulatory tetraparesis with absent spinal reflexes, suggesting diffuse neuromuscular dysfunction. Initial treatment with anti-inflammatory prednisone was initiated without improvement of clinical signs. Blood and urine analysis revealed increased BUN, severe hypergammaglobulinemia, and proteinuria. High positive level of antibodies for LI was detected in ELISA assay. Treatment with meglumine antimoniate and allopurinol was initiated. One month later, the dog was clinically normal and blood analysis did not reveal abnormalities.

This case report shows an unusual neurological presentation of polyneuropathy secondary to LI infection, with cranial and spinal nerves involvement, with a successful outcome only after the indicated treatment for LI.

[P82]

Comparison of magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography for evaluation of meningomyelitis of unknown origin in dogs Clinicians must be aware that histology may fail in differentiating benign from malignant neoplastic osseous lesions, and therefore osteoid osteoma and osteoblastoma must be considered, especially in young dogs.

[P84] C-reactive protein as a prognostic indicator in canine intervertebral disc extrusion C. Atkins 1 , P. Freeman 1 1 Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK Canine intervertebral disc extrusion (IVDE) is being increasingly recognized as a potential model for human disc herniation. In humans, systemic C-reactive protein (CRP) levels have been positively associated with pain severity and poorer post-operative outcomes. There are limited prognostic indicators of return to normal function in canine IVDE, with pre-operative neurological status being still the most reliable.

Cases of surgically managed cervical, thoracolumbar or lumbosacral IVDE seen at Queens Veterinary School Hospital, University of Cambridge between 2013-2018, with recorded pre-operative CRP serum levels and follow-up data including time to clinical recovery were identified. All dogs with a co-morbidity which could affect serum CRP were excluded. Neurological status at presentation and discharge was recorded, along with post-operative time to recovery of micturition and ambulation. 37 dogs were identified for inclusion in the study. 35% had a cervical location, 51% thoracolumbar and 14% lumbosacral. 57% of these dogs were classified as non-ambulatory, and 24% were plegic and unable to urinate. Serum CRP levels ranged from <2.2 mg/L to 13.2 mg/L (median = <2.2 mg/L). Ten dogs had serum CRP levels above the threshold level for measurement of <2.2 mg/L. No significant correlation was found between pre-operative serum CRP levels and pre-operative neurological status or return of urinary continence.

However, dogs with higher pre-operative CRP values took significantly longer to regain ambulation (P = 0.0397).

Further prospective studies are indicated to assess any potential relationship between pre-operative CRP level and post-operative return to normal function, as well as severity and persistence of pain.

[P85] Suspect vernet syndrome: A case report Two Labrador Retrievers, a German Shepherd and a Newfoundland dog were enrolled. All patients were male with a median age of 11.5 months. Clinical signs included progressive dullness, ambulatory tetraparesis and ataxia with the front legs most affected. The MRI studies revealed a markedly dilated ventricular system with a pronounced filling of the 4th ventricle, syringohydromyelia and ventricular CSF flow artifacts.

One dog was treated with prednisone and omeprazole and was euthanized 3 days after the diagnosis. Three dogs had a ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt placed. One dog improved initially but was euthanized 3 months later because of shunt complications. Two dogs are alive after 19 and 81 months with minimal clinical signs. All dogs with VP shunt placement had at least one VP shunt related complication.

The cause of generalized hydrocephalus in these young large-breed male dogs remains speculative but an idiopathic occlusion of the lateral apertures is strongly suspected. VP shunt placement appears to be the best treatment option. Dogs with VP shunt placement showed a volume reduction of the ventricular system, most significantly in the 4th ventricle with persistence of the syringohydromyelia without showing clinical signs for this condition. Craniocervical junction abnormalities, including atlantoaxial instability, commonly affect toy breed dogs. In contrast, this type of malformation is rarely described in cats.

The aim of this study was to present diagnostic imaging findings in a 6-year old domestic shorthair cat presented with a moderate neck pain and spinal ataxia that occurred following a mild traumatic event.

There were proprioceptive deficits in all four limbs, but more pronounced on the right side. Spinal reflexes were normal in the front limbs and hind limbs. The deficits indicated a C1-C5 neuroanatomical localisation and the patient underwent both the CT and MRI scans.

The first imaging finding was a bipartite atlas, with a 3.1 mm cleft in the midline and the right side of the dorsal arch. The C1 vertebra was shifted cranially and wedged into the foramen magnum causing compression of the neural tissue with vasomotor edema at the Atlantaoccipital junction. Moreover, the cerebellomedullary cistern was not visible on CT and MRI scans. The second malformation affected the odontoid of the axis, which was not normally fused with the body of C2 but was rather attached to it via fibrotic tissue (syndesmosis).

There was severe atlantoaxial subluxation and the axis was inclined cranially into the cleft of the C1 dorsal arch.

Combined anomalies of both the occipital-cervical and atlantoaxial segments are relatively uncommon, especially in cats, and usually manifested by a more severe and persistent neurologic injury. This study suggested that MST may be a treatment option for epileptic dogs.

[P94]

Intercortical and intracortical volumetry assessment in correlation with EEG findings in dogs with idiopathic epilepsy: Preliminary results Six mesocephalic dogs (one Alaskan Malamute, one Hungarian Vizsla and four mixed breed) with diagnosed idiopathic epilepsy were included in the study. The diagnosis was made in accordance with the IVETF recommendations. The age of the seizure onset varied from 12-60 months (mean: 39, median: 48). MRI examination was performed according to IVETF protocol for epilepsy patients on 1,5 T Philips Ingenia. Volumetric analysis of the cortex was made on T1-W 3D sequence in the transverse plane using the program Alteris-OsiriX v. 5.8. The lobes were measured and assessed for the asymmetry intercortically (between the dogs) and intracortically (between the lobes). In all dogs an EEG examination was performed, and all pathological discharges localization were recorded. Analysis of the result led to the correlation assessment between the functional epileptic focus and structural changes in brain lobes.

Asymmetric ratio (cut-off point 6%) was found in three patients (50%): frontal and occipital in one case and frontal and temporal in two cases. There was no correlation found with EEG changes, where discharges were from the C3 lead in two dogs and in C4 lead in one dog. In the remaining subjects, no asymmetric ratio > 6% was demonstrated in the intracortical, nor intercortical measurements. Interictal EEG did not reveal any paroxysmal (epileptoid) discharges, or other pathological activity. In two cases (60, 84 months old) MR of the head revealed thalamus lesion. Both dogs first onset of head tremor symptoms appeared in the age over 60 months. In one of those dogs histopathology of the brain revealed oligodendroglioma grade III.

Upon the results analysis the brain imaging in dogs with idiopathic head tremors should be advised before diagnosis, in order to exclude the intracranial changes, especially in older dogs, with symptoms onset above the age of 60 months. Due to lack of EEG epileptoid discharges, the syndrome does not seem to be epilepsy origin related.

[P96]

Case report of a dog with necrotizing limbic encephalitis A10-year-old male Parson Jack Russell Terrier presented with a 4-week history of self-mutilating behavior following a T12-T13 corpectomy for intervertebral disc protrusion. Postural reactions and spinal reflexes were unremarkable however superficial nociception was absent in both pelvic limbs.

Right pelvic limb radiographs showed absence of the ungal process of digit III and IV, and distal phalanx of digit III as consequence of mutilation. Spinal MRI revealed changes consistent with chronic spinal cord injury (T2WI intramedullary hyperintensity lateralized to the rightside) at the corpectomy site with minimal spinal stenosis. Sensory and motor nerve function studies of the tibial and peroneal nerves were unremarkable. Skin, muscle and nerve histology revealed demyelinating sensory neuropathy of the saphenous nerve with involvement of dermal and possibly epidermal nerve fibers. Mild inflammatory changes were present on the biceps femoris and tibialis cranialis muscles, and saphenous nerve. The patient had mild improvement with pregabalin (5 mg/kg, TID) and topiramate (10 mg/kg, TID) for one month; however complete resolution of the clinical signs was noticed on a 7-month follow-up with amantadine (3 mg/kg, SID) and nutraceuticals including L-carnitine (100 mg/kg/day).

Self-mutilating behavior was presumed to be secondary to paresthesia combined with abnormal sensation resulting in indifference to pain.

Self-mutilating behavior post compressive spinal cord injury or consequence of a demyelinating sensory neuropathy were considered the main differential diagnosis and may represent a rare complication in dogs undergoing spinal surgery.

[P100]

Whole genome sequencing and rare variant association study in familial spontaneous epileptic cats FSECs. Multiple testing correction was conducted. Ethical approval for this study was obtained.

Ten unique variants were found and evaluated. The allele frequency distribution of HELB variant was significantly different between FSECs with spontaneous seizures and cats without spontaneous seizures that were derived from the FSEC colony and relatively genetically related colony.

The genotype distribution of HELB variant was also statistically significant.

Although complex genetic factors are considered to result in epileptogenesis in FSEC and we cannot exclude the possibility that this rare mutant variant was positively enriched due to the high consanguineous background rate, the variant found in the current study might be potential susceptibility alleles for causing spontaneous seizures in FSEC, a genetic isolated population. Further studies are needed to validate the pathogenicity and its association of epilepsy. Alpha-chloralose is an active substance used as rodenticide. It acts in partially inhibitory and partially excitatory on the central nervous system and has a decreasing effect on thermoregulation. Bait is usually layered out during the cold season to maximize the effect of induced hypothermia.

We present three domestic shorthair cats that were referred to our clinic between October and December 2018. All cats were known to be excellent mice hunter. One was witnessed eating mice that eventually died through ingested bait containing alpha-chloralose. The other two cats were highly suspected for alpha-chloralose intoxication due to clinical signs. All cats were presented in a comatose state, accompanied by severe hypothermia and generalized cluster seizures.

Initial diagnostic tests including complete blood count, blood chemistry, coagulation profile and blood gas analysis did not reveal any relevant abnormalities in any of the cats. Two cats got thoracic radiographs taken which were also unremarkable.

All cats went to the ICU, receiving intravenous fluid therapy, diazepam (0, 5-1,1 mg/kg when needed) and levetiracetam (20 mg/kg TID).

Additionally, each cage was equipped with a heating mat and infrared lamp. Two patients recovered completely within few days and discharged without further medication. Both remained seizure-free until today. The third cat, which was witnessed eating intoxicated mice, died twelve hours after ingestion due to cardiac arrest.

This case series is one of the few with witnessed ingestion of alphachloralose and a fatal end for one of the patients. Prior studies showed a mortality rate of only 6,5%.

[P103]

Central osteoblastoma of the second thoracic vertebra in a cat Osteoblastoma of a cervical vertebra has been previously described in one cat. We present the first report of a central osteoblastoma of the second thoracic vertebra (Th2) in a cat. The aims of this study were to report the clinical presentation, imaging findings, treatment and outcome of cats with thoracic vertebral canal stenosis (TVCS).

Cases were retrospectively identified based on MRI and clinical findings consistent with a diagnosis of TVCS. For each patient we identified ten breed, age and gender matched controls with CT imaging for reasons unrelated to neurological disease. For each cat vertebral canal height was determined at three levels for each thoracic vertebra.

British Shorthairs were over-represented when compared to the hospital population. Median age at presentation was 9 years. All cats presented for a chronic, progressive, painful, ambulatory, T3-L3 myelopathy.

Five cats were treated conservatively, three surgically and one was euthanized. All cats treated surgically demonstrated clinical improvement or stabilization. Of the conservatively treated cats, two deteriorated, one remained stable and one improved. Mild intervertebral disk herniation or ligamentum flavum hypertrophy was observed in all cats.

Hypertrophy of articular processes or dorsal lamina was not observed in any cat. Compared to controls, affected cats had a lower vertebral canal height at multiple thoracic vertebral levels, being most prominent for British Shorthairs and Domestic Shorthairs (P < 0.05). Unaffected British Shorthairs had a lower thoracic vertebral canal height at multiple levels compared to control Domestic Shorthairs (P < 0.05).

TVCS should be considered as a differential diagnosis in older cats presenting with a progressive, painful T3-L3 myelopathy. Feline TVCS might be caused by relative vertebral canal stenosis in which the spinal cord cannot tolerate mild spinal cord compression.

[P105]

Surgical intervention on an anaplastic oligodendroglioma by ultrasonic aspiration J. Dietzel 1 , I. Böttcher 1 , T. Flegel 1 1 Department of Small Animal Medicine, University of Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany Intracranial neoplasms are the most common reason for acute onset of epileptic seizures in older dogs, with oligodendrogliomas being frequently observed in French bulldogs.

This case report presents a six-year-old male French bulldog, with acute occurring cluster seizures and MRI diagnosis of an intracranial mass involving the right cerebral hemisphere. The mass measured 19x19x20 mm at that time. Brain biopsy was performed and histopathological examination revealed an anaplastic oligodendroglioma.

Despite the poor prognosis, the owners opted for surgical intervention.

We performed a right sided rostrotentorial craniotomy under optic navigation control (frameless optical neuronavigation system, Karl Storz). Tumor resection was performed by ultrasonic aspiration [P106]

Peri-ictal MRI abnormalities in the hippocampus and cingulate gyri in five dogs with epileptic seizures CSF analysis was unremarkable in three dogs and abnormal in two dogs (mild mononuclear pleocytosis; WBC 11/ul and 7/ul; increased protein with 47 mg/dL and 51 mg/dL). All dogs initially showed variable neurological deficits (obtunded mentation, pacing, mildly decreased conscious proprioception, decreased menace). The deficits were lateralized in the dog with asymmetrical MRI features. All dogs were treated with anticonvulsant therapy and two dogs had a single anti-inflammatory dose of corticosteroid. All dogs were neurologically normal at the time of discharge or after two weeks of anticonvulsant therapy. Follow-up MRI after 12 weeks was available in one dog and showed complete resolution of the changes. All dogs were neurologically normal at long-term follow up (4 weeks-2 years). This is the first study to describe peri-ictal hyperintensities of the hippocampus and cingulate gyri. Knowledge of this distribution is important to differentiate from epileptogenic structural lesions.

[P107]

A beagle brain's multimodal imaging with MRI, CT, cryosectioning and 3-dimensional modeling In order to visualize a canine brain with multimodal imaging and enhanced detailedness we made a comparative neuroanatomical study.

A two-year-old female Beagle dog was scanned ante-and post mortem with CT and MRI. Arteries were filled with red polyurethane resin through the common carotid arteries post mortem (all procedures were approved in PEI/001/956-4/2013). Followed by freezing to −80 C, a neurocranial block was made and was embedded into a water-gelatin-mix. Using a special milling device and a Nikon D800 DSLR camera we obtained high-resolution (300 dpi, 24-bit color, 7360x4912 pixel) cryosections with 100 μm layer thickness. The RGB-images were post-processed in Adobe Photoshop CS3, and images from CT, MRI and cryosectioning were imported into Amira 6.0 software. Image volumes were co-registered, then segmentation of different structures were carried out. Finally, surface models were created and refined using Amira and Meshmixer.

Cryosectioning resulted 1112 RGB-images in high-detail (pixel size was only 19.5x19.5 μm). Co-registration in Amira with CT and T1-and T2-weighted MRI-series made it possible to visualize the structures in any arbitrary plane, allowing direct comparison between different imaging modalities. Segmentation and 3D surface modeling of the arteries, veins, brain and skull was also performed. This altogether gave a unique possibility to show the canine brain's macro-anatomical structures and compare with the result of the diagnostic imaging techniques.

In conclusion, images produced by this method could be the base of multimodal comparative canine brain atlas, and the upgraded technique of the cryomacrotomization could be used for future similar studies.

[P108]

Surgical treatment of Atlanto-axial subluxation using 3D-printed patient-specific drill guides for placement of transpedicular screws in 12 dogs Twelve consecutive cases were included. Modified Frankel score was 3 in 5/12 (42%) dogs and 4 in 7/12 (58%) on presentation. All dogs underwent pre-and post-operative CT scans. Of 61 bicortical screws placed, 57/61 (93%) were graded 1 and 4/61 (7%) were graded 2a.

Post-operative CT revealed good alignment of C1 and C2 in all planes.

Reversible perioperative adverse events were described in 5/12 (42%) dogs. Two out of twelve (17%) of dogs were euthanized shorty after discharge for conditions unlikely directly related to the surgical procedure performed. At short-term follow up (18 to 50 days after surgery) 8/10 dogs (80%) had improved neurological status. For the remaining 2/10 (20%) neurological status remained unchanged. All dogs were reported ambulatory and comfortable at telephone follow-up (median 405 days post-surgery, range 180-780 days).

In conclusion this technique is accurate and safe in dogs with atlantoaxial subluxation, with improved neurological status resulting in 10/12 dogs.

[P109]

What do people want to know about canine and feline epilepsy? Looking for answers using GOOGLE trends M. Plonek 1,2 1 Centre for Experimental Diagnostics and Biomedical Innovations, Wroclaw University of Environmental and Life Sciences, Wroclaw, Poland, 2 Ranzijn Dierenarts via Flexvet, Veterinary Clinic, Zaandam, the Netherlands Google is currently the most popular search engine and enables fast and easy access to health-related information. Google Trends is a useful tool that allows the analysis and graphing of Google searches in various countries over time.

The aim of this study was to evaluate and interpret worldwide web search queries related to canine and feline seizures and epilepsy in English-speaking countries over the course of a five-year period and determine related topic searches.

Searched terms included "dog seizure", "dog epilepsy", "cat seizure"

and "cat epilepsy". The results were retrieved as a number of relative normalized search volume numbers (RNSN) on a 100 point scale.

"Dog epilepsy" was the most searched term. There was an increasing trend of this search over time (2014 mean 42 RNSN vs 2019 mean 72 RNSN). A breakout of related topics (>5000% RNSN) included "cannabidiol drug", "dog seizure aftermath" and "dog seizure triggers".

In each studied year, the search for this term peaked between the 23rd-31st December (>58 RNSN).

In cats, the term "cat seizure" was less popular and remained at a steady search trend (2014 mean 51 RNSN vs 2019 mean 55 RNSN).

Breakout related topics included "euthanasia" and "cat seizure while sleeping". Peak periods for this search (>69 RNSN) were observed in July, October and December.

Studies assess Google search trends may enhance our understanding of the demand for information concerning specific aspects of animal seizures and epilepsy. The processing of such data may help veterinarians meet these information needs.

[P110] [P112]

Hypersexuality responsive to phenobarbital in a neutered male DSH cat Attempts to treat hypersexuality as a behavioral issue, UTI (coamoxyclav), pain (meloxicam) and anxiety (diazepam) were unsuccessful. Thus, phenobarbital was prescribed in a low dose (1 mg/kg,PO, q12h) which eliminated the episodes of hypersexuality without sedating. Phenobarbital withdrawal resulted in hypersexuality re-establishment. One-year later the cat remained episode-free on phenobarbital. This is the first report to present a presumptive TLE characterized by hypersexuality in a neutered male cat.

A new frameless optical neuronavigation system for brain biopsies in eight dogs The STORZ biopsy device consists of a computer workstation with special software, infrared camera, patient tracker and reflective instruments. Eight dogs with forebrain lesions diagnosed on MRI were sampled: For biopsy planning a 3D-MRI scan (T1/T2, 1 mm) of the entire patient's head was performed. Afterwards four pins were placed into the skull at following localizations: both zygomatic arches, paramedian over frontal sinus and occipital protuberance. Then a CT scan of the skull was made. Both data sets were fused automatically. A patient tracker with reflective balls was attached to the skull using three selftapping screws. The patient was registered by touching the patient tracker as well as the tip of each pin with a reflective instrument.

Intracranial lesions were sampled free handed (2-4 samples) through a mini-burr hole of 3 mm diameter using a Sedan side-cutting needle with reflective balls. Diagnostic yield based on specific histopathological diagnosis was 100%. Biopsy samples indicated postictal edema (n = 1), inflammatory (n = 5, necrotizing encephalitis/ necrotizing leucencephalitis/ meningoencephalitis unknown origin/ distemper virus encephalitis) or neoplastic (n = 2, oligodendroglioma) pathologies. Six dogs showed no neurological deterioration, one dog showed a mild temporary ataxia and one dog died after the biopsy procedure because of progression of a pre-existing foramen magnum herniation.

The frameless optical neuronavigation system by STORZ is a relatively safe and effective tool to gain diagnostic brain biopsy samples in dogs. appearance of compressive HNPE has been described as a hypodense extradural compressive lesion with rim enhancement immediately dorsal to the intervertebral disc space, with a sensitivity of 91% and a specificity of 100%.

The aim of this case series collected between 2015 and 2019 is to retrospectively describe the myelo-CT findings in four dogs with gross surgical findings consistent with compressive HNPE (white or transparent water-like or gelatinous material). In all cases, the myelo-CT findings were similar to previously described MR including a focal extradural "seagull"-shaped compressive lesion dorsal to the annulus fibrosus combined with a narrowing of the affected intervertebral disc space. The extruded material tended to be hypodense in soft tissue window, although the presence of subarachnoid contrast might artefactually have contributed to this appearance.

These results suggest that myelo-CT could be a useful diagnostic tool for compressive HNPE when MR is not available, although a greater number of cases is required to draw solid conclusions.

Clinical presentation, MRI findings, histopathology and outcome in a cat with masticatory myositis M. Armellini 1 , L. Sánchez 1 , A. Lorek 1 , G. D. Shelton 2 , L. De Risio 1 1 Animal Health Trust, Small Animal Clinic, Lanwades Park, Kentford, Suffolk, 2 University of California, San Diego, Department of Pathology, Comparative Neuromusclar Laboratory/Biomedical Sciences A four-year-old, spayed female domestic short-haired cat was presented with acute facial swelling and waxing-and-waning bilateral exophthalmos for two weeks while treated with meloxicam and amoxicillin-clavulanic acid.

Bilateral asymmetric facial swelling, mild exophthalmos and third eyelid protrusion were detected on clinical examination. Hematology and serum biochemistry revealed eosinophilia and markedly elevated CK activity. MRI of the head revealed diffuse swelling of the temporalis, masseter and medial pterygoid muscles. These muscles were severely and heterogeneously hyperintense on T2-weighted and STIR images, compared to normal skeletal muscle. On post-contrast T1-weighted images they were strongly and heterogeneously enhancing and contained several irregular, non-contrast-enhancing areas. Fine needle cytology of the left temporal muscle revealed eosinophilic and macrophagic inflammation. Bacteriologic and fungal cultures were negative.

IgG and IgM for Toxoplasma gondii were compatible with previous exposure. A canine ELISA system against masticatory muscle type 2 M fibers was positive at 1:4000 (reference interval < 1:100). Histopathology of the left temporalis muscle revealed moderately severe multifocal myositis. Based on the diagnostic investigation, a diagnosis of immune-mediated masticatory myositis was made.

Treatment with tapering doses of prednisolone resulted in complete resolution of the presenting clinical signs. Five months following diagnosis, while on 0.4 mg/kg/day prednisolone, no relapse has occurred, the cat's serum 2 M antibody titre is negative and the serum CK activity is within reference range.

To the authors' knowledge, this is the first case report describing the MRI appearance and successful treatment of masticatory myositis in a cat.

[P116]

3T MRI characteristics and functional outcome in dogs with severe spinal cord injury following thoracolumbar disc herniation Of 13 dogs for which we had the necessary data, 7 recovered to walk again and 6 did not (including one that developed progressive myelomalacia). The median length of the gap in CSF signal on the 'myelographic' midsagittal MR image was 4.75 vertebral lengths in dogs that recovered versus 8 in those that did not. The spinal cord of all dogs but one (that recovered) exhibited hyperintensity in the gray matter on transverse T2W and STIR images that extended for variable distances. In 4 dogs that did not recover there were also extensive regions of hypointensity in the gray matter and, in some individuals, the central canal, on many transverse T2W images; this pattern was not observed in any of the dogs that recovered to walk again.

MR imaging in this small sample of dogs with severe thoracolumbar spinal cord injury after disc extrusion suggests that regions of T2W hypointensity, suggestive of hemorrhagic necrosis or hematoma, in the gray matter or central canal are associated with a poor prognosis for recovery, even when treated by extensive durotomy. As suggested in previous studies a short gap in CSF columns on myelographic MR images suggests a good prognosis.

[P117]

Median manubriotomy as a simple method to improve ventral access to C7, T1 and T2 vertebral bodies and corresponding intervertebral disc spaces I. Mateo 1 1 Hospital Veterinario Vetsia, Calle Galileo 3, Leganes, Madrid Spain

The approach to the ventral aspect of caudal cervical and first thoracic vertebrae is hindered by the manubrium and the depth of the access.

The aim of the present study is the description of the technique used to improve access to C7, T1 and T2 vertebral bodies and corresponding intervertebral spaces, in 7 patients.

With the animals positioned in dorsal recumbency, a ventral midline incision was made from the mid-cervical area to the second sternebra.

The sternocephalicus muscles were divided to the manubrium and the superficial and deep pectoral muscles were disinserted from the manubrium with monopolar electrocautery. Subsequently a median manubriotomy was performed. Small Gelpi retractors were used to keep the manubrium open throughout the procedure, allowing visualization of deeper structures of caudal cervical spinal. Care was taken to avoid penetration to the pleural cavity and to respect the external jugular vein in its union with the brachiocephalic vein. With both sides of the manubrium retracted, an incision between sternohyoideus muscles was made to expose the trachea. Then, the approach to the ventral aspect of the cervical spine was continued in the standard manner. Gelpis Seletz retractors are recommended to retract longus colli muscles.

The procedure improved notably the visualization of the ventral aspect C7, T1 and T2 vertebral bodies, thus allowing a comfortable drilling for ventral slot (5 cases with disc extrusions or protrusions) or implant placement (2 cases). No patient suffered complications during or after the surgical procedure. There was no significant increase in perioperative pain. Cytosine arabinoside (CA) is a chemotherapeutic used as an immunosuppressant or anti-neoplastic agent. It is useful in the treatment of diseases of the central nervous system based on its ability to cross the blood brain barrier. Side effects such as myelosuppression, GI disturbance, and hepatotoxicity have been reported. Therefore, it is critical to monitor patients that receive CA. The purpose of this study is to collect and compare data about CA treatment protocols in veterinary medicine.

Diplomates and candidates of the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine (ACVIM) neurology, oncology, and small animal medicine listservs were contacted and asked to fill out a 26-question online survey about the administration, monitoring, and side effects in dogs being treated with CA. Survey data was compared to retrospective record data of dogs treated with CA at the study institution.

Results from the survey indicate a significant difference in the dose utilized in treatment protocols (P < 0.01). Despite variation in dosage, results show a majority of veterinarians perform similar monitoring procedures prior to the first dose of CA. However, after completing the first dose, monitoring procedures varied significantly (P < 0.01).

Analysis of both the retrospective and survey data suggest that intravenous administration is associated with a higher risk for side effect development.

Based on these results, there is variation in CA treatment protocols amongst veterinarians. Additionally, route of administration may affect the side effects that are observed. Additional research is required to further investigate how route of administration can alter patient outcomes.

Clinical and MRI findings in two cats with globoid cell leukodystrophy The aim of the study was to describe neurological symptoms and MRI findings in two cats with histological confirmed Globoid Cell Leukodystrophy.

We considered cats with progressive neurological signs and MRI changes due to Globoid cell Leukodystrophy, as per histological confirmation.

Two not related male, 5-month-old cats, were referred for progressive neurological signs reflecting multifocal central nervous system involvement and characterized by intentional head tremor, paralysis with absence of deep pain perception on pelvic limbs and weaknessdysmetria with reduced flexor reflex on forelimbs; menace response was also bilaterally decreased.

MRI scans were performed with a 0,25 T-unit and included FSE T2 and T1 weighted sequences on sagittal and transverse planes; T1WI were repeated after intravenously paramagnetic contrast medium administration (0.1 mmol/kg gadolinium). Diffuse and irregular intramedullary T2-weighted hyperintensities were found on the thoracolumbar area; no obvious morphological and signal changes were detected on pre and post-contrast T1WI. In one patient mild cerebellar volume reduction was found.

CSF examination showed mild pleocytosis (13 cells/ul) and marked protein increase (300 mg/dL) in one patient and mild albuminocytologic dissociation in the second (protein: 62 mg/dL).

Due to the progression of the neurological signs, both patients were euthanized. Histological examination of the brain and spinal cord showed myelin loss and perivascular big macrophages containing PAS positive substance, compatible with Globoid Cells

Leukodystrophy.

Globoid Cell Leukodystrophy should be considered as a differential diagnosis in young cats showing progressive multifocal neurological signs with predominant involvement of the spinal cord and irregulardiffuse T2 intramedullary hyperintensities on MRI exam.

[P120]

Evaluation of the involvement of TH17-cells in the pathogenesis of canine spinal cord injury A. Kämpe 1 , A. Knebel 1 , R. Carlson 1 , K. Rohn 2 , A. Tipold 1 1 Department of Small Animal Medicine and Surgery, University of Veterinary Medicine, Hannover, Germany, 2 Department of Biometry, Epidemiology and Information Processing, University of Veterinary Medicine, Hannover, Germany

Interleukin-17(IL-17) producing helper-T-cells (Th17-cells) play a central role in protection against infections and in autoimmune diseases.

However, the involvement of Th17-cells is also discussed in the pathogenesis of pain and in secondary inflammatory reactions.

To investigate a possible role of the adaptive immune system in the pathophysiology of intervertebral disc herniation (IVDH) and spinal cord injury (SCI), we analyzed the influence of Th17-cells in blood and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of sixty-two dogs suffering from IVDH and examined, if Th17-cells might have an effect on the course of this disease. Isolated lymphocytes were analyzed after stimulation by using multicolor flow cytometry to measure the amount of Th17-cells.

Serum and CSF samples were analyzed by Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (ELISA) simultaneously. Highly significant differences (P < 0.0001) could be determined between three sampling time points: preoperative, postoperative after clinical improvement and after six months and in comparison to the healthy control group (animal experiment number: 33.8-42 502-05-18A290).

Last follow-up examinations of Th17-cells were comparable to the control group, preoperative Th17-cell-levels were decreased. Compared to healthy controls IL-17 measured in serum was significantly higher (P < 0.0001) in dogs with IVDH. However, there was no considerable difference between IL-17 levels in CSF amongst all groups (r Sp = 0.0482).

In conclusion, a high activity/usage or consumption of IL-17-producing-cells is suspected in acute IVDH. The decreased amount of Th17-cells recovers postoperatively. These findings may indicate an involvement of Th17-cells in the pathogenesis of IVDH and emphasize the importance of these cells in the interaction of pain and an immune reaction.

[P121]

Investigation of a TH17 cell-mediated immune response in dogs with idiopathic epilepsy A. Knebel 1 , A. Kämpe 1 , R. Carlson 1 , K. Rohn 2 , A. Tipold 1 1 Department of Small Animal Medicine and Surgery, University of Veterinary Medicine, Hannover, Germany, 2 Institute for Biometry, Epidemiology and Information Processing (IBEI), Hannover, Germany Th17 cells and their proinflammatory cytokine interleukin-17 seem to be associated with the development of chronic inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. We investigated whether a Th17-cell mediated influence can be identified in some dogs with idiopathic epilepsy (IE).

Th17 cells were identified and quantified by flow cytometry in blood of dogs with IE (n = 57) and IL-17 was measured in CSF (n = 35) and serum samples (n = 33) using an ELISA. Ten healthy beagles formed the control group. Results were correlated with clinical parameters for example, seizure frequency, seizure severity or response to treatment.

Th17 cells were also randomly controlled in dogs with IE in a follow up study. The study was conducted in accordance with the ethical guidelines of the University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover (experiment number 33.8-42 502-05-18A290).

Elevated levels of stimulated Th17 cells/μL were observed in ten dogs with IE (17.54%). There was a positive correlation between stimulated Th17 cells of dogs with IE and seizure severity (P = 0.0460). IL-17 levels in CSF and serum samples of dogs with IE were significantly increased compared to the control group. However only one correlation with clinical data or sampling time points could be observed: a negative correlation between IL-17 values in CSF samples and the amount of AEDs given to treat dogs with IE.

In conclusion, in single dogs with IE and severe seizures increased Th17 cell numbers were detected in blood. In these individual cases an autoimmune reaction against brain structures could be a potential cause for seizures and anti-inflammatory treatment could be indicated.

Clinical, magnetic resonance imaging and histologic findings of canine thoracolumbar discal cyst E. Fiorentino, N. Gasparinetti, C. Falzone Diagnostica Piccoli Animali srl, Zugliano (VI), Italy Several types of extramedullary cysts have been reported in dogs; discal cysts remained poorly described and not fully proven in veterinary medicine. The purpose of this prospective study was to report clinical, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) features and histologic findings of thoracolumbar discal cysts in dogs.

Medical records and MRI of dogs presented from 2014 and 2019 with compressive myelopathy due to thoracolumbar cystic lesions communicating with the intervertebral disc were reviewed. All dogs should have had a neurologic examination, an MRI exam suggestive of discal cyst, surgical removal and histological confirmation of the cyst.

Eight dogs were included with 2 mixed large size breed dogs, 2 German Shepherds, 1 Labrador, 1 Pitt Bull, 1 Czechoslovakian Wolf dog, 1 Siberian Husky. The mean age at time of presentation was 8.5 years; 7 patients were male and one female. The neurological signs more often were severe and started acutely (<48 hours) in all but two dogs, that had a more subacute onset (3 to 7 days). MRI showed compressive thoracolumbar myelopathy due to a round to oval shaped epidural space-occupying lesion communicating with the intervertebral disc, iso/hypointense on T1WI and mostly hyperintense on T2WI, with a variable contrast-enhancing wall, highly suggestive of a cystic structure. Histology confirmed the cyst, showing a wall made of dense fibrous connective tissue and mainly chondroid cells. All dogs dramatically improved after surgery.

Despite rare, discal cysts should be considered amongst the differential diagnosis in dogs with acute thoracolumbar myelopathy and can be successfully surgically treated. cord. Phase-contrast magnetic resonance imaging (PC-MRI) is a noninvasive method to measure CSF flow velocity and to detect abnormalities in flow pattern. There is a lack of data on CSF flow velocity and pattern in dogs. Aim of this study is to measure CSF flow in a group of healthy dogs to evaluate the normal CSF flow. In this prospective study six adult healthy Beagle dogs were examined in a 3 Tesla magnetic resonance imaging system. CSF flow velocity was measured perpendicular to the flow at the level of the mesencephalic aqueduct, foramen magnum and at level of C1-C2 in transverse orientation. Ethical approval for the study was obtained.

CSF flow was detected bidirectional in all three locations and displayed as biphasic waveforms. Mean peak flow velocity in cm/s at the mesencephalic aqueduct was 0.92 (range 0.51-2.01), at the foramen magnum 1.84 (range 0.89-2.73) (ventral subarachnoid space) and 1.17 (dorsal subarachnoid space; range 0.75-1.8). At the cervical spine, the mean velocity measured ventral to the spinal cord was 2.03 (range 1.1-3.0) and dorsal to the spinal cord 1.27 (range 0.96-1.82). In conclusion, 2D phase contrast magnetic resonance imaging is a feasible technique to measure CSF flow velocity in dogs. We acquired data in healthy dogs to compare them to patients with intracranial and spinal pathologies.

[P124]

Polyneuritis cranialis: Subtype of acute canine polyradiculoneuritis? We have retrospectively identified dogs with: (1) deficits involving more than 2 cranial nerves (CN) either motor, sensory or autonomic, based on clinical examination and EMG when available; (2) a monophasic disease course pattern of acute / sub-acute onset; and (3) exclusion of diseases affecting the brain parenchyma on advanced imaging.

Seven dogs (6 females, 1 male, aged 2-10 years old) were identified with 5-30 days histories of multiple cranial nerves deficits. Median number of CN involved was 4 (range 3-7). Five dogs were presented with dropped jaw, 5 dogs with facial weakness, 5 with peripheral vestibular signs and 3 dogs with bulbar signs. Deficits were asymmetric in 5 dogs. Brain imaging was normal in 4 dogs and contrast enhancement of one or more CN was seen in 3 dogs. Albuminocytological dissociation was noted on CSF analysis in 3 dogs and mononuclear pleocytosis in 1 dog. The outcome was fair to good in dogs without bulbar signs and more guarded in dogs with bulbar signs.

Polyneuritis cranialis had thus far only been described once in a dog and an immune-mediated disease was suspected. It might represent a subtype of acute canine polyradiculoneuritis. We would like to recruit further cases prospectively to look more closely at presence of antiglycolipid antibodies, response to intravenous immunoglobulins and outcome.

[P125]

Prognostic value of early computed tomography in dogs after traumatic brain injury S. Wyatt 1 , C.Y. Lee 1 , M. Pivetta 1 , E. Beltran 1 1 Royal Veterinary College, Hatfield, UK Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is associated with significant mortality and valid prognostic indicators for survival are limited in veterinary medicine. The study objective was to determine whether early CT findings are associated with short-term prognosis after TBI in dogs.

An electronic database was retrospectively searched for dogs with TBI which underwent CT imaging within 72 hours of injury; 49 dogs with TBI met the inclusion criteria for this study which was granted ethical permission by the study institution. CT findings were evaluated by three reviewers blinded to clinical presentation and were classified based on a modified advanced imaging system (MAIS) from grade I-VI.

Other imaging characteristics recorded included presence of midline shift, percentage parenchyma involved, and presence of skull fractures. Outcome measures included survival to discharge and occurrence of post-traumatic seizures (PTS).

Seventeen dogs (34.7%) had abnormal brain parenchyma on CT. Midline shift was present in eight dogs (16.3%). There was a significantly worse prognosis associated with more extensive intraparenchymal injuries, midline shift, and brainstem lesions. There was also a significant association with MAIS grade and short-term prognosis. Eight dogs (16.3%) experienced PTS; dogs with higher MAIS were significantly more likely to suffer PTS.

CT is a valuable tool in predicting short-term prognosis following TBI in dogs and the MAIS may be useful for predicting survival to discharge and occurrence of PTS.

[P126]

Magnetic resonance spectroscopy findings in a beagle dog with genetically confirmed Lafora disease N. Alisauskaite 1 , M. Dennler 2 , K. Beckmann 1 , N. Zölch 3 1 Neurology Service, Department of Small Animal Surgery, Vetsuisse-Faculty Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland, 2 Clinic for Diagnostic Imaging, Department of Diagnostics and Clinical Services, Vetsuisse-Faculty Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland, 3 Forensic Medicine and Imaging, Institute of Forensic Medicine, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland Lafora disease (LD) is an autosomal recessive degenerative disease primarily affecting the central nervous system in various species, including people and specific dog breeds, such as beagles. In beagles it is caused by mutation in NHLRC1 gene, leading to intracellular accumulation of polyglucosan bodies (Lafora bodies) primarily in the somatodentritic compartment. Cortical atrophy was demonstrated in humans and dogs in MR imaging. In humans, magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) of the brain reveals reduced N-acetyl-aspartate (NAA) relative to brain metabolites -creatine (Cre), choline (Cho) and myo-Inositol (mI), in patients suffering from LD compared to controls.

MRS findings in dogs suffering from LD are lacking.

A 6-year-old female beagle was presented with history of a single generalized tonic-clonic seizure and multiple episodes of reflex myoclonus. Neurological examination was unremarkable. 3-Tesla MRI and MRS with voxel positioning in the thalamus were performed and compared to 12 healthy beagles' results. Signal-to-noise ratio and full width at half maximum were comparable between investigated dog and controls.

MRI examination of the head and CSF analysis were unremarkable.

MRS revealed decreased levels of glutamate-glutamine complex (Glx), NAA and increased phosphoethanolamine (PE) relative to water and Cre compared to the value range in controls. Additionally, NAA/Cho ratio demonstrated the most pronounced difference compared to healthy beagles. Genetic test confirmed LD.

In this case MRS showed abnormalities with absent changes in conventional MRI. Reduced NAA reflects neuronal loss and is comparable to MRS findings in humans suffering from LD. Reduced Glx levels might be associated with antiepileptic drug administration.

[P127]

A patient-specific 3D printed surgical guide to aid localization of the drilling site during transsphenoidal hypophysectomy in dogs Trans-sphenoidal hypophysectomy in dogs is increasingly recognized as a viable surgical treatment for Cushing's disease. However, it comes with technical challenges due to the anatomy of the bone and presence of important blood vessels around the pituitary. The surgeon's landmarks to locate the sella turcica are the pterygoid hamular processes and shape of the sphenoid bone, but these remain imperfect. We thought of designing a patient-specific mold which would delineate the exact burring site into the sphenoid bone for correct and safe entry into the sella turcica.

To achieve this, we have dissected and obtained CT images of the head of two cadavers, designed guides for each anatomical specimen, 3D printed the skulls and fitted the guides, drilled the sphenoid bone, then finally checked with CT accuracy of our approach. The guide locks on the upper arcade molars. It extends caudally to meet the sphenoid bone where it takes the shape of a rectangular frame. The size and location of the drilling site, in the middle of the frame, is defined from reconstructed sagittal CT images where the sphenoid outer and inner cortices are visualized. For both anatomical specimens, entry into the sella turcica was possible.

We provide here proof-of-concept that a low profile 3D printed patient-specific guide can help successful entry into the sella turcica.

We believe that this guide could increase safety of hypophysectomy and reduce surgical time and surgeon's apprehension to damage important anatomical structures around the pituitary fossa. The technique could be extrapolated to cats with little difficulties. Infestation taking place in the nervous system can involve brain, spinal cord, nerve roots, peripheral nerves and muscles. Antemortem diagnosis can be difficult and delay negatively reflects on the final outcome. Here we retrospectively compare the diagnostic utility of different tests in dogs with clinical signs of neuromuscular neosporosis. 11 cases of confirmed N. caninum infection were reviewed. Diagnostic modalities comprising serology, PCR and histopathology of muscle and nerve biopsies were compared. Age of onset was between 2 months and 9 years (mean 22.5 months). 8/11 patients showed neuromuscular signs only while 3/11 showed also CNS involvement.

Serology was performed in 9/11 with 6/9 showing titers >1:160. PCR on muscle samples detected N. caninum DNA in 8/11. Histopathology revealed inflammatory myopathy in 9/11, necrotizing myopathy in 2/11 and tachyzoites in 8/11. Nerve biopsies showed signs of neuropathy in 5/7. All three tests were performed in 9/11 with confirmation in 3/9 from all tests, 4/9 from two tests and 2/9 from one test. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case report describing the CT and MRI characteristics of the thoracolumbar vertebral column in an adult dog with presumed CH. Closure of the growth plates was noted on the images most likely as a consequence of the age of the dog and medical treatment. Multiple disc protrusions in juvenile-onset CH have been described previously in a mixed-breed dog and were considered to be due to the skeletal developmental abnormalities resulting in joint laxity and consequent vertebral instability. The NSE and GFAP concentrations in CSF and serum in the MG were significantly higher compared to the CG (P = 0.008 and P = 0.013, respectively). When a cut-off value of 250 ng/mL of NSE in the CSF and 150 ng/mL in the serum was used, a sensitivity of 75% and specificity of 100% for mortality at 3 months was observed in both tests.

When a cut-off value of 3.5 ng/mL of GFAP in CSF was stipulated for mortality at 3 months, 69% sensitivity and 100% specificity was observed.

In conclusion, NSE and GFAP are expressed in CSF and serum of healthy dogs and dogs with MUO, with a significant difference between both groups. Although results appear promising, large scale studies are necessary to confirm the presented findings.

[P132] Automated in vivo MR morphometry for detection of agedependent brain changes in the course of glaucoma in DBA/2J mice M. Fiedorowicz 1 , M. Wełniak-Kami nska 1 , J. Orzeł 1,2 , P. Bogorodzki 1,2 , P. Grieb 1 1 Mossakowski Medical Research Centre, Polish Academy of Sciences, Warsaw, Poland, 2 Faculty of Electronics and Information Technology, Warsaw University of Technology, Poland

Magnetic resonance imaging enables fast acquisition of high resolution images of the brain. These images can be processed automatically to accurately evaluate a number of brain structures. Moreover, this approach allows tracking of changes of brain morphology in the same individuals enabling tracing of developing pathologies. This approach was used to track glaucoma-related brain pathology in DBA/2 J mice that spontaneously develop glaucoma and in control animals to differentiate these changes from 'normal' aging.

Brain morphology was evaluated in DBA/2 J, DBA/2 J-Gpnmb+/SjJ and C57Bl/6 female mice aged 3, 6, 9, 12 and 15 months. The animals were anesthetized with isoflurane (4% in oxygen -induction, 1.5-2% -maintenance) and placed in 7 T small animal-dedicated magnetic resonance tomograph (BioSpec 70/30USR; Bruker BioSpin, Ettlingen, Germany).

High resolution structural imaging was performed with TurboRARE T2 sequence. Data were preprocessed with N4 intensity non-uniformity correction algorithm implemented in Slicer 3D and processed using SPM software and custom-made MATLAB scripts. For the volumetric analysis we employed National University of Singapore in vivo mouse brain electronic atlas. Study was approved by the local ethics committee.

Significant differences were noted in the brain volumes of the tested strains. Significant differences were noted for several cortical structures, in particular visual and auditory cortex. Relative visual cortex volume declined in DBA/2 J mice in an age-dependent manner.

Automated atlas-based morphometry allowed detection of early signs of neurodegeneration in the murine model of glaucoma. It is a useful tool for in vivo evaluation of brain morphology and tracking of pathological changes.

Kiviranta 10 , R. Cappello 11 , K. Matiasek 1 , M. Rosati 1 1 Section of Clinical and Comparative Neuropathology

Gluten related disorders (GRDs) are a spectrum of clinically diverse entities with ingestion of gluten as common trigger. Serological tests used to confirm GRDs rely on detection of anti-gliadin antibodies (AGA) and transglutaminase-2 antibodies (TG2). Border terriers with paroxysmal gluten-sensitive dyskinesia (PGSD) and non-coeliac gluten sensitivity (NCGS) have been recently described but GRDs with neuromuscular manifestations in the breed has not been reported so far.An 11 years old, male Border Terrier was referred because of para- [P129]Multimodal diagnostic approach for the improvement of diagnostic accuracy of canine neuromuscular neosporosis