HEMORRAGIC PROGESSIVE MYELOMALCIA IN DOGS – REVIEW

Abstract

Hemorrhagic progressive myelomalacia (HPM) is a condition in which acute ischemic or progressive necrosis of the spinal cord parenchyma occurs, leading to posterior necrosis of the spinal cord with a fatal outcome for the affected animal. It can occur due to spinal cord trauma, suppurative infection, neoplasms and fibrocartilaginous embolism, however, its highest incidence occurs in animals with intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) Hansen type I, where there is an extrusion of the nucleus pulposus towards the spinal cord with a hyperacute appearance, which culminates in irreversible neurological damage compatible with the affected region. The observed signs started with acute paraplegia and increased spinal reflexes in the pelvic limbs, after 48 to 72 hours, the paraplegia becomes flaccid. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the main imaging test used for diagnosing spinal cord injury, but radiography is not necessary because fractures and dislocations can be identified through it. Euthanasia is the process indicated for the animal with MHP due to the suffering caused by the condition that leads the animal to death due to respiratory paralysis. Thus, the objective of this review is to present the mechanisms related to progressive hemorrhagic myelomalacia, its triggering factors and the evolution of the clinical condition.