Disorder - Spina bifida occulta

Organ Systems Involved
Musculoskeletal

Alternative disorders described within LIDA

Spinal agenesis/dysgenesis; Dysraphism; Sacrococcygeal agenesis/scoliosis; Spina bifida; Spina bifida with raduschisis

Presenting Signs

Spina bifida is a group of diseases where the vertebral column does not properly fuse to form the normal protective bony encasement over the spinal cord. Spina bifida occulta is a mild form of this disease without signs of dysfunction of the nervous system. The spinal cord functions normally as there is no protrusion through the gap in the vertebral bones, unlike other spina bifida conditions. The small gap is covered by skin and hair, although the hair may grow in a different direction or a skin dimple may be present. As there are no obvious abnormalities in either the cat’s appearance or function of the spinal cord, spina bifida occulta is usually only discovered as an incidental finding when X-rays are taken for other reasons.

Cats at Risk

Pregnant queens with exposure to toxins or high levels of Vitamin A in their diet are more likely to produce offspring with this condition. This form is induced and does not have a hereditary basis.

Breeds Affected
Manx


PubMed References
Spina bifida occulta

Contributor
Susan Carr