Background: Compression of epidural adipose tissue (EAT) within the scope of cauda equina syndrome (CES) could lead to an enhanced expression of inflammatory mediators, possibly contributing to pain amplification in dogs. Objectives:To analyze expression of inflammatory adipo(-cyto)kines within the EAT of dogs with CES.Animals: Client-owned dogs: 15 dogs with CES and 9 dogs euthanized for unrelated medical reasons (controls).Methods: Prospective, experimental study. Epidural adipose tissue and subcutaneous adipose tissue were collected during dorsal laminectomy and used for real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Tissue explants were cultured for measurements of inflammation-induced release of cytokines.Results: Results show a CES-associated upregulation of the cytokines tumor necrosis