Dermoid sinus type VI associated with spina bifida and tethered cord syndrome in a French Bulldog. (March 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Kopke, Matthew A.; Jack, Malcolm W.; Baltzer, Wendy I.; Wightman, Paul F.; Gal, Arnon
• Is Part Of: Journal of veterinary diagnostic investigation. Volume 31:Number 2(2019:Mar.)
• Page Start: 294
• Page End: 297
• Publication Date: 2019-03
• Subjects: Dermoid sinus type VI -- French Bulldogs -- spina bifida -- tethered cord syndrome; Veterinary medicine -- Diagnosis -- Periodicals; 636.0896075
• DOI: 10.1177/1040638719827626
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1040-6387

Abstract

A 4-mo-old French bulldog was presented with acute onset pain and reluctance to move. A tubular structure arising in the dorsal thoracic midline and extending from a cutaneous orifice into deeper tissues was palpated on physical examination. Computed tomography with sinography revealed a dermoid sinus associated with spina bifida at the level of T3-T4. On surgical exploration, the dermoid sinus was found to communicate with the dura. Histology confirmed the diagnosis and classification as a type VI dermoid sinus. The pain response and hyperesthesia were suspected to be the result of tethered cord syndrome. Complete resolution of clinical signs was appreciated post-surgery, with the patient still free of clinical signs 3 mo later.