2015 ACVIM Forum Research Abstract Program

No differences were noted between the affected and control dogs with respect to the presence of syringohydromyelia, hydrocephalus and Chiari-like malformation. Significant differences between control and affected dogs were noted with respect to presence of a dens, apical ligament, and transverse ligament. The presence of cord signal intensity was associated with affected status, as was increased AA joint cavity size and percentage crosssectional cord compression at the level of the dens and mid-body C2. No associations were found between cord compression, appearance of the dens or cord signal intensity and neurologic grade of affected dogs. There was an association between the presence of cord signal intensity and increased joint cavity size. There was no association between dens appearance and cord signal intensity. Dens abnormalities were associated with greater subluxation distance and odontoid ligament absence was associated with increased joint cavity size.