Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy Findings in Perro de Presa Canario Dogs with Spongy Degeneration of the Central Nervous System

Abstract

2-Month-old, three related Perro de Presa Canario dogs were evaluated for similar neurological symptoms like circling, head pressing, depressed mental status, hypermetria, and vocalization. On magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain, there were large, bilaterally symmetrical lesions with involvement of thalamus, and brainstem that were T2-and FLAIR-hyperintense and T1-iso/hypointense. There was no inclusion of cerebellum. Single-voxel spectroscopy acquisition was located in the thalamus where abnormalities were found in MR images. The results of magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) showed markedly decreased N-acetylaspartic acid value. Euthanasia was performed and lesions consistent with the canine spongy degeneration. Alteration in metabolites in the brain can be determined by MRS, which helps in diagnosing degeneration/leukodystrophy of the central nervous system in dogs.