DISCOSPONDYLITIS IN A 7-MONTH-OLD FRENCH BULLDOG: A CASE REPORT

A 7-month-old, intact, male French bulldog presented for paraplegia for two days, and persistent fever and diarrhea for seven days. Complete blood count and biochemical profiles were within normal limits. Radiography and computed tomography (CT) revealed destructive endplate lesions between T11 and T12. Surgery of intervertebral disc (IVD) curettage was performed because the dog was beginning to lose deep pain perception. Staphylococcus epidermis was isolated from blood culture and specimens of the IVD. After surgery, intravenous and oral antibiotics were continued for three weeks. The dog regained ambulatory status one month after surgery. Diagnosis of discospondylitis of T11 and T12 was confirmed according to CT and positive bacteria culture. To our knowledge, this case is the youngest dog confirmed with discospondylitis managed successfully, and the first case report of discospondylitis in a French bulldog. Aggressive surgical treatment is highly recommended in young dogs with rapidly progressive neurologic deficits from discospondylitis.