Diagnostic utility of computed tomography imaging in foals: 10 cases (2008–2010)

Abstract

SummaryDespite an increasing number of case reports published using computed tomography (CT) in foals only limited data on its diagnostic utility are available. Medical and imaging records of 10 foals that had a CT examination between May 2008 and December 2010 were retrieved and studied. Three out of 10 cases were examined for orthopaedic problems, 3 were referred for medical disorders, 3 for both orthopaedic and medical problems, and one case was presented for a follow-up of an abdominal mass. In this series CT was an accurate diagnostic tool in identifying abscesses, osteomyelitis, arthritis, physitis and fractures, bone ossification defects, intracranial haematomas and sinusitis. An indication for the best medical and/or surgical approach was obtained.

Arthroscopic approach and intra‐articular anatomy of the equine atlanto‐occipital joint

“…A‐O diseases are becoming more frequently diagnosed as cross‐sectional imaging becomes more accessible . Recent case reports have documented septic disease of the A‐O region in foals and in one 3‐year‐old horse . Pathology was identified ultrasonographically, with MRI, or with CT .…”

“…Recent case reports have documented septic disease of the A‐O region in foals and in one 3‐year‐old horse . Pathology was identified ultrasonographically, with MRI, or with CT . Findings included osteomyelitis of the occipital condyles or the dorsal aspect of the joint, septic arthritis, and periarticular abscessation .…”

“…The equine atlanto‐occipital (A‐O) joint may be affected by congenital, developmental, degenerative, traumatic, and septic disease processes. Pathologic conditions include A‐O and occipitoatlantoaxial malformations, instability and subluxation, osteochondrosis, osteoarthritis, fracture, septic arthritis and osteomyelitis of hematogenous origin or secondary to extension, and fistulation from guttural pouch mycosis . Symptoms of A‐O joint disease include overextended head and neck posture, stiffness, localized pain and swelling, apprehension to handling of the poll area, riding problems, and ataxia …”

Equine laryngeal dysplasia as a cause of acute respiratory distress in a neonatal foal

“…Magnetic resonance and computed tomography imaging can be used to provide additional information and permit accurate ante mortem diagnosis of laryngeal dysplasia (Garrett et al . ; Barba and Lepage ; Barakzai ). Transverse computed tomography at the level of the muscular processes of the arytenoid cartilage shows abnormal dorsal extension of the laminae of the thyroid cartilage on the affected side whereas with 3‐dimensional reconstruction computed tomography images, it is possible to visualise a wide space between the cricoid and thyroid cartilages on the affected side.…”

Septic epiphysitis and sequestrum formation in the glenoid of the scapula in a five‐month‐old foal diagnosed by computed tomography

“…The diagnostic utility of CT imaging in foals has been assessed13 and it has been advocated for early detection of osteomyelitis because of its excellent sensitivity for detecting changes in bone density 15. Bone lysis can vary from a lack of definition to complete radiolucency, if osteomyelitis is advanced.…”