Doberman Research Articles

Plasma fatty acid concentrations in Boxers and Doberman Pinschers

To compare plasma fatty acid concentrations and the relationships of fatty acids to arrhythmias in Boxers versus Doberman Pinschers. 38 Boxers and 13 Doberman Pinschers. Boxers and Doberman Pinschers evaluated via Holter recording and for which a blood sample was available were included. Echocardiograms were performed in 49 of 51 dogs. The number of ventricular premature complexes (VPCs)/24 h was counted and fatty acids analyzed. Plasma fatty acid concentrations and VPCs/24 h, as well as correlations between the 2 variables, were compared between the 2 breeds. Compared with the Doberman Pinschers, Boxers had significantly higher plasma concentrations of gamma-linolenic acid but lower concentrations of arachidonic acid. Total n-6 fatty acids and total polyunsaturated fatty acid concentrations were higher in Doberman Pinschers. There were significant, but weak, positive correlations between VPCs and oleic acid, total n-3 fatty acids, and total n-9 fatty acids in Boxers but not in Doberman Pinschers. Data suggested that plasma fatty acid concentrations may differ between Boxers and Doberman Pinschers and that the relationship between fatty acid concentrations and VPCs may be different between these 2 breeds.

Bicortical Implant Insertion in Caudal Cervical Spondylomyelopathy: A Computed Tomography Simulation in Affected Doberman Pinschers

To evaluate the safety of the angle of insertion of bicortical implants in Doberman Pinschers affected by caudal cervical spondylomyelopathy (CCSM) using simulation on computed tomography (CT) images. Doberman Pinschers (n=9) with dynamic spinal compression attributed to CCSM. Dogs had CT evaluation of the cervical vertebral column. Digital images were used to evaluate the safety of bicortical implant insertion from the midline at 30, 35, and 40 degrees inclination by drawing a line simulating implant position. Correct surgical positioning of dogs was evaluated by measuring the degree of rotation of the spine along the longitudinal axis. Insertion of an implant at 30, 35, and 40 degrees inclination was considered safe in 42%, 59%, and 67% of selected sites. Rotation of the spine from 9 degrees counter clockwise to 10 degrees clockwise along the longitudinal axis occurred in 53% of the areas considered. These results suggest that bicortical implants in the caudal cervical area in Doberman Pinschers affected by CCSM carry a high risk of vertebral canal and intervertebral foramina violation. Bicortical implants inserted at 30 and 35 degrees in the caudal cervical area in Doberman Pinschers affected by CCSM carry a high risk of vertebral canal and intervertebral foramina violation. CT planning for individual dogs can facilitate selection of the appropriate insertion plane and vertebral column rotation needs to be considered in surgical planning.

Isolation, characterization and genetic analysis of canine GATA4 gene in a family of Doberman Pinschers with an atrial septal defect

GATA4 is expressed early in the developing heart where it plays a key role in regulating the expression of genes encoding myocardial contractile proteins. Gene mutations in the human GATA4 have been implicated in various congenital heart defects (CHD), including atrial septal defect (ASD). Although ASD is the third most common CHD in humans, it is generally rare in dogs and cats. There is also no obvious predilection for ASD in dogs and cats, based on sex or breed. However, among dogs, the incidence rate of ASD is relatively high in Samoyeds and Doberman Pinschers, where its inheritance and genetic aetiology are not well understood. In this study, we identified and investigated the genetic aetiology of an ASD affected family in a pure breed dog population. Although the GATA4 gene was screened, we did not find any mutations that would result in the alteration of the coding sequence and hence, the predicted GATA4 structure and function. Although the aetiology of ASD is multifactorial, our findings indicate that GATA4 may not be responsible for the ASD in the dogs used in this study. However, this does not eliminate GATA4 as a candidate for ASD in other dog breeds.

Localization of Non-Factor VIII Sequence Involved in the Factor VIII Gene Inversion in Hemophilia A Dogs.

There is a common gene inversion at the telomere of the canine X chromosome in which factor VIII intron 22 DNA recombines with homologous sequence outside the gene. This mutation disrupts factor VIII synthesis and causes severe hemophilia A in dogs, analogous to a common inversion seen in humans (Lozier et al, PNAS 2002 99:12991–6). This mutation appears to be the only spontaneous gene inversion in an animal that replicates a corresponding disease of humans. The coding region for canine factor VIII spans approximately 146 kb and is found at the telomere of the X chromosome between bases 126,063,525 and 125,917,394 in the canine genome project, version 46.2d. Much of the canine factor VIII intron 22 remains unsequenced and the presence of F8A (the putative site of recombination in the factor VIII gene) in this region is inferred from PCR and Southern blot analysis of BAC clones that encompass this region. We have therefore focused on localizing the non-factor VIII site of the recombination and have found its essential elements in sequence located telomeric (upstream) to the canine factor VIII coding start site. We have used the boxer canine genome sequence (version 46.2d) as a template and reference for sequence analysis of BAC clone 291M9 (from normal Doberman pinscher genomic DNA library RPCI-81). Comparison of >100,000 bp of sequence common to the boxer and Doberman in this region showed >99% identity between the two breeds as expected. The BAC clone 291M9 was previously shown by DNA fiber FISH to be the region outside the factor VIII gene that participates in the gene inversion. This clone contains both F8A sequence (the putative site of recombination) as well as the sequence (ch8) that replaces the last four exons of the factor VIII transcript in hemophilia A dogs after the inversion. F8A sequence found in the Doberman BAC clone 291M9 matches sequence starting at nucleotide 126,317,916, in the boxer canine genome project (from RPCI-82 boxer BAC clone XX-145E20). This is outside the factor VIII gene, and approximately 400,000,000 base pairs upstream/telomeric to F8A found within the factor VIII gene. Approximately 20 kb from F8A is ch8, the sequence spliced into the abnormal hemophilia A factor VIII mRNA. The 7.5 kb region where the F8A sequence is found is extremely rich in guanosine and cytosine nucleotides (73% GC content) and has at least six putative CpG islands (as identified by the EMBOSS CpG analysis software (http://www.ebi.ac.uk/emboss/cpgplot/). This is consistent with the finding that F8A gene sequences outside the human factor VIII gene are found in CpG islands. There may be additional copies of the canine F8A sequence in or near this region (as is the case for the human genome), since gaps remain in this region of the known genomic sequence. The high GC content and highly repetitive nature makes sequence analysis and assembly problematic. These properties are consistent with DNA that is susceptible to homologous recombination and gene inversion as is seen with hemophilia in dogs and man. [Display omitted]

Hypocretin/Orexin: A Molecular Link Between Sleep, Energy Regulation, and Pleasure

Hypocretin (Hcrt) is a neurotransmitter of the dorsal and lateral hypothalamus that regulates sleep, appetite, and energy consumption. Recent evidence indicates that it is also involved in pleasure/reward-seeking. Mutation of the Hcrt-receptor gene causes narcolepsy in canines, and Hcrt knockout mice exhibit narcolepsy-like symptoms. Human narcoleptics do not commonly have mutations in the ligand or receptor but do have degeneration of Hcrt-containing neurons, possibly through an autoimmune mechanism. When Hcrt neurons degenerate in mice, hypophagia and obesity are observed, symptoms that are also present in some human narcoleptics. This article reviews the recent literature with regard to the many functions of this single molecule. The authors suggest that eating habits and impulsivity may be topics worth exploring in the evaluation of narcoleptic patients.

Blanket and flank sucking in Doberman Pinschers

To evaluate blanket and flank sucking and any association with pica in Doberman Pinschers. Survey and case-control study. 153 Doberman Pinschers (77 dogs with blanket or flank sucking and 76 unaffected dogs). Owners of Doberman Pinschers with blanket sucking, flank sucking, or both were surveyed regarding the age of onset, triggers, frequency, duration, interruptability, and associated medical and behavioral consequences. A putative association of blanket sucking and flank sucking with pica was examined by comparison of affected dogs with unaffected dogs. Apart from the difference in the object of oral activity between blanket and flank suckers, age of onset was the only variable that differed between dogs with the 2 conditions. Dogs with blanket or flank sucking had a higher prevalence of pica than the unaffected population. Blanket and flank sucking are apparently related conditions that can occur with sufficient intensity to cause medical sequelae. These nonnutritive suckling behaviors share similarities with other canine compulsive disorders and are associated with pica. Veterinarians should advise owners that flank and blanket sucking are abnormal, potentially harmful behaviors in dogs. Treatment should be considered for severely affected dogs or when flank or blanket sucking is associated with medical problems.

A Prospective Genetic Evaluation of Familial Dilated Cardiomyopathy in the Doberman Pinscher

Background: The Doberman Pinscher is one of the most common breeds of dogs to develop dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), a primary heart muscle disorder characterized by myocardial dysfunction, cardiac arrhythmias, and congestive heart failure. In the Doberman Pinscher, the disease is typically adult onset, and a familial etiology has been suggested. Hypothesis: DCM in the Doberman Pinscher, is a familial disease linked to a specific genetic marker. Animals: The study comprised an extended family of Doberman Pinschers with a history of DCM. Methods: Participating dogs were prospectively evaluated over an 8‐year period. Phenotype of participating dogs was determined by annual echocardiography and ambulatory electrocardiography, and the pedigree was evaluated to determine a specific mode of inheritance. Three hundred seventy‐two microsatellite markers were selected and genotyped to cover the 38 autosomal chromosomes. Phenotyping, genotyping, and pedigree information was entered into a database, and parametric, 2‐point analysis was performed. Markers were considered to be linked to the development of DCM if the logarithm of odds LOD score was ±3.0. Results: An autosomal dominant mode of inheritance was defined by the appearance of the disease in multiple generations, equal gender representation (P = .973) and male‐to‐male transmission. A maximum LOD score of 1.31 was obtained for 1 marker on chromosome 20, a score not high enough to be associated with DCM. Conclusion: DCM in the Doberman Pinscher is a familial disease inherited as an autosomal dominant trait. The causative gene(s) responsible for this condition remain unresolved. Association studies by means of array technology may provide new insights into gene identification.

First report of an unclassifiedDemodexmite causing demodicosis in a Venezuelan dog

For the first time in Venezuela, a case of canine demodicosis apparently caused by a simultaneous infection with an unclassified Demodex and Demodex canis has been observed. The most severely affected area of the dog involved, a 3-month-old male Doberman Pinscher, was the head, particularly the peri-orbital skin. Skin samples of the affected areas were taken and evaluated by both light and scanning electron microscopy. The mites of the unclassified Demodex were smaller than those of D. canis and appeared relatively stout. In the skin scrapings, D. canis outnumbered the unclassified Demodex by a ratio of 30:1, making it unclear if the unclassified Demodex is pathogenic to dogs. A combination of superficial and deep skin scrapings, from a suspected case of demodicosis, may help to reveal other infestations of the unclassified Demodex that would otherwise be masked by concurrent infections with D. canis.

Successful treatment of severe salt intoxication in a dog

AbstractObjective: To report successful treatment of severe salt intoxication and hypernatremia in a dog.Case summary: A 5‐year‐old intact female Doberman Pinscher was admitted to the intensive care unit with a history of seizures and coma. The owner had administered approximately 100 g of cooking salt to induce vomiting following ingestion of a nontoxic dose (10 g) of chocolate. Upon admission, the dog was comatose with intermittent seizures and vomiting. Diagnostic tests confirmed salt intoxication (Na: 200 mEq/L, Cl: 180 mEq/L) and metabolic acidosis (pH: 7.18; pCO2: 39 mmHg; HCO3: 14.3 mmol/L). Immediate treatment included intravenous fluid therapy, an anticonvulsant, antiemetic, diuretic, low molecular weight heparin, and supplemental oxygen. A fluid therapy protocol was initiated to decrease serum sodium concentration by approximately 2 mEq/L/hr. After 24 hours of intensive care, the patient regained consciousness and volume and acid‐base abnormalities improved. The patient developed a variety of abnormal clinical signs as a result of the severe hypernatremia. After 5 days of treatment, the serum sodium concentration returned to the established reference range. The patient recovered completely in 10 days.New information provided: Severe hypernatremia due to salt ingestion is a rare condition in dogs. All dogs in previous case reports of salt intoxication have died. This case report is the first to report survival of a dog with severe salt intoxication.

One-year clinical and magnetic resonance imaging follow-up of Doberman Pinschers with cervical spondylomyelopathy treated medically or surgically

To evaluate progression of clinical signs and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings in dogs with cervical spondylomyelopathy (wobbler syndrome) treated medically or surgically. Prospective cohort study. 12 Doberman Pinschers. Neurologic examinations and MRI were performed before medical (n = 9) or surgical treatment (ventral slot, 3) and a minimum of 12 months later. Mean follow-up time was 14.5 months. Clinically, 2 dogs improved after surgical treatment and 5 improved after medical treatment. Magnetic resonance imaging of surgically treated dogs revealed adequate spinal cord decompression. Spinal cord signal changes were seen in 2 dogs before surgery, both of which had new signal changes at the same and adjacent sites during follow-up examination. One dog treated surgically developed 3 new areas of spinal cord compression. In the medically treated dogs, the severity of spinal cord compression at the time of follow-up examination was unchanged in 4 dogs, worse in 2 dogs, and improved in 3 dogs, but spinal cord atrophy was observed on transverse images. Four medically treated dogs had changes in spinal cord signal initially, but none developed new signal changes or compressions. Medical and surgical treatment improved or stabilized the clinical condition of most dogs. Surgical treatment appeared to hasten the development of additional areas of spinal cord compression and lesions in dogs with preoperative cord changes; however, the clinical importance of these changes was not determined. The progression of pathologic MRI abnormalities was notably less in medically treated dogs, compared with surgically treated dogs.

Studies on Clinico-Etio-Epidemiology of Vomition in Dogs

The present study of etio-epidemiology of vomition in dogs was carried out amongst the dogs presented at Veterinary Clinical Complex, AAU, Anand. A total of 50 cases of vomiting dogs were selected for this study. Investigation of etiological factors associated with vomition revealed that 50.00% vomiting cases were due to dietary abnormalities, 24.00% due to Parvo viral infection, 10.00% due to parasitic infestation, 8.00% renal disorders, 6.00% due to hepatic disorders, and 2.00% due to pyometra. The epidemiological parameters like sex, breed, and age were recorded. During the sex-wise incidence of vomition was found more in male (64.00 %) than in female (36.00 %) dogs. The breed-wise incidence of vomition was recorded highest (32.00 %)in Mongrel, followed by Labrador Retriever (28.00 %), Spitz (12.00 %), Doberman Pinscher (8.00 %), German Shepherd (10.00 %), Great Dane 4%, Beagle (2.00 %), Lasa Aphso (2.00 %), and Pug (2.00 %) . The age-wise incidence of vomition was recorded higher (58.00%) in 0-6 months age group, followed by (24%) in 7 months to 3 years age group and (18%) in 3-8 years age group. Clinical examination revealed dehydration, dullness, congested to anemic mucus membranes, inappetence to anorexia, tachycardia, melaena, haematemesis, diarrhea, and clear lungs. On abdominal palpation, there was mild pain in dogs affected with renal and hepatic disorders.

Breed‐specific pro‐inflammatory cytokine production as a predisposing factor for susceptibility to sepsis in the dog

AbstractObjective: To determine whether 2 dog breeds with a high risk for parvoviral enteritis, a disease associated with sepsis, produce stronger pro‐inflammatory cytokine responses to a stimulus than dogs with a lower risk.Design: Blinded comparison.Setting: University outpatient clinic.Animals: Healthy, unrelated, purebred Doberman Pinschers (n=10) and Rottweilers (n=9) with age‐matched mixed‐breed dogs (n=7).Interventions: Heparinized, whole‐blood samples were collected from each dog and incubated for 6 hours with lipopolysaccharide. Plasma was collected, and bioassays were used to determine the concentrations of TNF‐α and IL‐6. The mean values obtained from the high‐risk breeds were compared with the mean obtained from the mixed‐breeds.Measurements and main results: The mean TNF‐α production from dogs with a high risk for parvoviral enteritis (1321±161 pg/mL; Doberman Pinscher and Rottweiler) was greater (P<0.05) than that from lower risk, mixed‐breed dogs (674±186 pg/mL). There were no differences in TNF‐α levels between Doberman (1128±247 pg/mL) and Rottweiler (1563±pg/mL) breeds or between any breeds with regard to IL‐6 production.Conclusions: The magnitude of TNF‐α production by peripheral blood monocytes was the greatest in the dogs with breed‐related risk for parvoviral enteritis. However, additional studies are needed to prove a causal relationship between high TNF and predilection for parvoviral enteritis. Regardless, breed appears to be a predisposing factor for variations in cytokine production that could impact the host response to infection and other inflammatory insults.

IMAGING DIAGNOSIS — INTRACRANIAL EPIDERMOID CYST IN A DOBERMAN PINSCHER

A 4-year-old Doberman Pinscher was evaluated for chronic progressive central vestibular disease and aggressiveness. A cyst-like lesion was identified in the region of the left cerebellopontine angle. The lesion was hypointense on T1-weighted and hyperintense on T2-weighted images. Differentials included an epidermoid or dermoid cyst, cystic neoplasm, and brain abscess. Hyperintensity on subsequent fluid-attenuated inversion recovery images excluded an arachnoid cyst. The histopathologic diagnosis was epidermoid cyst within the fourth ventricle.

A Prospective Genetic Evaluation of Familial Dilated Cardiomyopathy in the Doberman Pinscher

The Doberman Pinscher is one of the most common breeds of dogs to develop dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), a primary heart muscle disorder characterized by myocardial dysfunction, cardiac arrhythmias, and congestive heart failure. In the Doberman Pinscher, the disease is typically adult onset, and a familial etiology has been suggested. DCM in the Doberman Pinscher, is a familial disease linked to a specific genetic marker. The study comprised an extended family of Doberman Pinschers with a history of DCM. Participating dogs were prospectively evaluated over an 8-year period. Phenotype of participating dogs was determined by annual echocardiography and ambulatory electrocardiography, and the pedigree was evaluated to determine a specific mode of inheritance. Three hundred seventy-two microsatellite markers were selected and genotyped to cover the 38 autosomal chromosomes. Phenotyping, genotyping, and pedigree information was entered into a database, and parametric, 2-point analysis was performed. Markers were considered to be linked to the development of DCM if the logarithm of odds LOD score was >/= 3.0. An autosomal dominant mode of inheritance was defined by the appearance of the disease in multiple generations, equal gender representation (P = .973) and male-to-male transmission. A maximum LOD score of 1.31 was obtained for I marker on chromosome 20, a score not high enough to be associated with DCM. DCM in the Doberman Pinscher is a familial disease inherited as an autosomal dominant trait. The causative gene(s) responsible for this condition remain unresolved. Association studies by means of array technology may provide new insights into gene identification.

Assessment of Diastolic Function by Doppler Echocardiography in Normal Doberman Pinschers and Doberman Pinschers with Dilated Cardiomyopathy

Assessment of diastolic function in patients with dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) has the potential to add valuable information regarding hemodynamics, disease severity, and prognosis. The purpose of this study was to determine transmitral flow (TMF), isovolumic relaxation time (IVRT), pulmonary venous flow (PVF), flow propagation velocity (Vp), and mitral annular velocities by tissue Doppler in Doberman Pinschers with and without DCM. It was anticipated that normal and DCM Dobermans would differ with respect to these parameters, and that associations with time to congestive heart failure (CHF) or death would be found. Thirty client-owned Doberman Pinschers (10 each of normal, occult DCM, and overt DCM) were studied. Each dog underwent echocardiography with or without thoracic radiography (to confirm CHF) for classification as normal or DCM-affected, followed by collection of echocardiographic diastolic parameters. The group with occult DCM exhibited features of pseudonormal TMF, reduced systolic to diastolic PVF ratio, and reduced Vp. Shorter early TMF deceleration time (DTE) was associated with shorter time to CHF or sudden death. The group with overt DCM exhibited restrictive TMF, blunted systolic PVF, and reduced early and late diastolic mitral annular velocities. Doberman Pinschers showed evidence of moderate and severe diastolic dysfunction in occult and overt DCM, respectively. Short DTE may be a useful predictor of onset of CHF or sudden death.

Assessment of Diastolic Function by Doppler Echocardiography in Normal Doberman Pinschers and Doberman Pinschers with Dilated Cardiomyopathy

Background: Assessment of diastolic function in patients with dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) has the potential to add valuable information regarding hemodynamics, disease severity, and prognosis. The purpose of this study was to determine transmitral flow (TMF), isovolumic relaxation time (IVRT), pulmonary venous flow (PVF), flow propagation velocity (Vp), and mitral annular velocities by tissue Doppler in Doberman Pinschers with and without DCM. Hypothesis: It was anticipated that normal and DCM Dobermans would differ with respect to these parameters, and that associations with time to congestive heart failure (CHF) or death would be found. Animals: Thirty client‐owned Doberman Pinschers (10 each of normal, occult DCM, and overt DCM) were studied. Methods: Each dog underwent echocardiography with or without thoracic radiography (to confirm CHF) for classification as normal or DCM‐affected, followed by collection of echocardiographic diastolic parameters. Results: The group with occult DCM exhibited features of pseudonormal TMF, reduced systolic to diastolic PVF ratio, and reduced Vp. Shorter early TMF deceleration time (DTE) was associated with shorter time to CHF or sudden death. The group with overt DCM exhibited restrictive TMF, blunted systolic PVF, and reduced early and late diastolic mitral annular velocities. Conclusions and Clinical Importance: Doberman Pinschers showed evidence of moderate and severe diastolic dysfunction in occult and overt DCM, respectively. Short DTE may be a useful predictor of onset of CHF or sudden death.

Radiographic and clinical features of carpal varus associated with chronic sprain of the lateral collateral ligament complex in 10 dogs

Lameness associated with carpal varus deformity was recognised in 10 dogs, eight of which were Dobermann Pinschers. The dogs had a mean age of seven years and nine months. Carpal varus was usually bilateral with concurrent carpal hyperflexion and pronation. Carpal varus was present prior to the onset of lameness in four cases. With stress radiography the median angle of varus deviation in all carpi was 14.6 degrees , and an increase in the size of the ulnar /ulnar carpal bone joint space was seen in six of the seven dogs. Radiographic changes included: enthesophyte formation at the proximolateral aspect of metacarpal V, periarticular soft tissue swelling, especially lateral, bone proliferation at the carpometacarpal joint I and enthesophyte formation at metacarpophalangeal joint V. Four dogs were admitted for problems other than carpal varus and lameness was not treated. Five dogs were treated with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, but lameness was not completely resolved and became exacerbated with exercise. One dog was successfully treated by pancarpal arthrodesis.

IMAGING DIAGNOSIS—URINARY OBSTRUCTION SECONDARY TO PROSTATIC LYMPHOMA IN A YOUNG DOG

A 3-year old, intact male Doberman pinscher was examined at the Foster Hospital for Small Animals at Tufts University for a 2-week history of stranguria, dyschezia, and weight loss. Ultrasonographically, there was bilateral hydronephrosis, right-sided hydroureter, hepatosplenomegaly, symmetric mild prostatomegaly, and a distended urinary bladder. Fine needle aspirates and biopsies of the prostate yielded a diagnosis of lymphoma. Lymphoma is a rare cause of prostatomegaly in the dog. Sonographic findings are nonspecific; fine needle aspirates or biopsies are needed to ascertain the diagnosis.

COMPARISON OF MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING AND MYELOGRAPHY IN 18 DOBERMAN PINSCHER DOGS WITH CERVICAL SPONDYLOMYELOPATHY

Eighteen Doberman pinscher dogs with clinical signs of cervical spondylomyelopathy (wobbler syndrome) underwent cervical myelography and magnetic resonance (MR) imaging. Cervical myelography was performed using iohexol, followed by lateral and ventrodorsal radiographs. Traction myelography was performed using a cervical harness exerting 9 kg of linear traction. MR imaging was performed in sagittal, transverse, and dorsal planes using a 1.5 T magnet with the spine in neutral and traction positions. Three reviewers independently evaluated the myelographic and MR images to determine the most extensive lesion and whether the lesion was static or dynamic. All reviewers agreed with the location of the most extensive lesion on MR images (100%), while the agreement using myelography was 83%. The myelogram and MR imaging findings agreed in the identification of the affected site in 13-16 dogs depending on the reviewer. MR imaging provided additional information on lesion location because it allowed direct examination of the spinal cord diameter and parenchyma. Spinal cord signal changes were seen in 10 dogs. Depending on the reviewer, two to four dogs had their lesions classified as dynamic on myelography but static on MR images. Myelography markedly underscored the severity of the spinal cord compression in two dogs, and failed to identify the cause of the signs in another. The results of this study indicated that, although myelography can identify the location of the lesion in most patients, MR imaging appears to be more accurate in predicting the site, severity, and nature of the spinal cord compression.

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

To establish the reference ranges for motor evoked potential (MEP) latency and amplitude in clinically normal Doberman Pinschers, compare the MEPs of Doberman Pinschers with and without clinical signs of cervical spondylomyelopathy (CSM; wobbler syndrome), and determine whether MEP data correlate with neurologic or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings. 16 clinically normal and 16 CSM-affected Doberman Pinschers. Dogs were classified according to their neurologic deficits. After sedation with acepromazine and hydromorphone, transcranial magnetic MEPs were assessed in each dog; latencies and amplitudes were recorded from the extensor carpi radialis and cranial tibial muscles. Magnetic resonance imaging was performed to evaluate the presence and severity of spinal cord compression. Significant differences in cranial tibial muscle MEP latencies and amplitudes were detected between clinically normal and CSM-affected dogs. No differences in the extensor carpi radialis MEP were detected between groups. There was a significant correlation (r = 0.776) between the cranial tibial muscle MEP latencies and neurologic findings. Significant correlations were also found between MRI findings and the cranial tibial muscle MEP latencies (r = 0.757) and amplitudes (r = -0.453). 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.