Correlation of motor evoked potentials with magnetic resonance imaging and neurologic findings in Doberman Pinschers with and without signs of cervical spondylomyelopathy

Abstract

Results provided a reference range for MEPs in clinically normal Doberman Pinschers and indicated that cranial tibial muscle MEP latencies correlated well with both MRI and neurologic findings. Because of the high correlation between cranial tibial muscle MEP data and neurologic and MRI findings, MEP assessment could be considered as a screening tool in the management of dogs with spinal cord disease.

Transcranial magnetic motor evoked potentials in Great Danes with and without clinical signs of cervical spondylomyelopathy: Association with neurological findings and magnetic resonance imaging

“…We hypothesized that differences would be identified in the TMMEPs latencies between clinically normal and CSM-affected GDs, but no amplitude differences would be identified between groups, similar to what has been previously reported in a TMMEP study performed in Dobermans with and without CSM (da Costa et al, 2006). We also hypothesized that TMMEP latencies would be longer in the CSM-affected GDs with more severe clinical signs and SC compression.…”

“…In CSM-affected Doberman Pinschers, TMMEPs latencies were increased when compared to clinically normal Dobermans, and correlated with the severity of neurologic signs and MRI findings in affected dogs (da Costa et al, 2006; De Decker et al, 2011). Great Danes (GDs) are also frequently affected by CSM (da Costa, 2010).…”

“…The dogs were positioned in lateral recumbency. The technique of TMMEPs acquisition was based on previous studies (da Costa et al, 2006; De Decker et al, 2011). Transcranial magnetic stimulation was performed using a magnetic stimulator (Cadwell Sierra Wave, Cadwell Laboratories) and a 9.0 cm circular coil (Magstim, The Magstim Company) capable of producing a peak magnetic field of 2.0 Tesla at the coil surface.…”

“…The use of TMMEPs has been reported in horses and dogs with cervical SC disease (Nollet et al, 2002; Poma et al, 2002; da Costa et al, 2006; De Decker et al, 2011). In CSM-affected Doberman Pinschers, TMMEPs latencies were increased when compared to clinically normal Dobermans, and correlated with the severity of neurologic signs and MRI findings in affected dogs (da Costa et al, 2006; De Decker et al, 2011).…”

Morphologic and morphometric magnetic resonance imaging features of Doberman Pinschers with and without clinical signs of cervical spondylomyelopathy

“…The specific objective of the study of this report was to compare the morphologic and morphometric features of the cervical vertebral column of Doberman Pinschers with and without clinical signs of CSM via MR imaging. The study was part of a larger investigation of the morphologic and morphometric features, electrophysiologic findings, 30 diagnosis, and natural history of Doberman Pinschers with and without signs of CSM.…”