Disorder - Myelocele

Organ Systems Involved
Nervous/sensory

Alternative disorders described within LIDA

Spinal bifida; Sacral dysgenesis

Presenting Signs

Cats with myelocele have a segment of their spinal cord exposed, i.e. there is no skin overlying the cord. This arises because the spinal cord is formed incompletely, and the vertebral bone overlying that portion of the spinal cord is also incomplete. This is called spinal bifida. The most common location of this disorder is at the sacrum (lower back)/pelvis or at the tail bone. The consequence of this is abnormal nerve supply to regions such as the terminal urinary and intestinal tract. The abnormalities vary depending on the severity of the defect. Problems may include incoordination or paralysis of the hind legs, dribbling of urine or faeces, a distended abdomen, constipation and dilated intestines. The signs usually steadily become worse after birth and the cat may become paraplegic or partially disabled.

Cats at Risk

Closely related cats

Breeds Affected
Devon Rex
Japanese Bobtail
Manx


PubMed References
Myelocele

Contributor
Xutian Liang