Features for Evaluating Source Localization Effectiveness in Sound Maps from Acoustic Cameras.

Acoustic cameras (ACs) have become very popular in the last decade as an increasing number of applications in environmental acoustics are observed, which are mainly used to display the points of greatest noise emission of one or more sound sources. The results obtained are not yet certifiable because the beamforming algorithms or hardware behave differently under different measurement conditions, but at present, not enough studies have been dedicated to clarify the issues. The present study aims to provide a methodology to extract analytical features from sound maps obtained with ACs, which are generally only visual information. Based on the inputs obtained through a specific measurement campaign carried out with an AC and a known sound source in free field conditions, the present work elaborated a methodology for gathering the coordinates of the maximum emission point on screen, its distance from the real position of the source and the uncertainty associated with this position. The results obtained with the proposed method can be compared, thus acting as a basis for future comparison studies among calculations made with different beamforming algorithms or data gathered with different ACs in all real case scenarios. The method can be applicable to any other sector interested in gathering data from intensity maps not related to sound.

Susceptibility artifact morphology is more conspicuous on susceptibility-weighted imaging compared to T2* gradient echo sequences in the brains of dogs and cats with suspected intracranial disease.

Susceptibility-weighted imaging (SWI) has been found to be more reliable in the detection of vessels and blood products than T2*-weighted gradient echo (GE) in several human brain diseases. In veterinary medicine, published information on the diagnostic usefulness of SWI is lacking. The aim of this retrospective observational study was to investigate the value of SWI compared to T2*-weighted GE images in a population of dogs and cats with presumed, MRI-based diagnoses grouped as neoplastic (27), cerebrovascular (14), inflammatory (14), head trauma (5), other pathologies (4), or that were normal (36). Areas of signal void (ASV) were assessed based on shape, distribution, number, and conspicuity. Presence of ASV was found in 31 T2*-weighted GE and 40 SWI sequences; the conspicuity of lesions increased in 92.5% of cases with SWI. A 44.7% increase in the number of cerebral microbleeds (CMBs) was identified within the population using SWI (110) compared to T2*-weighted GE (76). Linear ASV presumed to be abnormal vascular structures, as are reported in humans, were identified in 12 T2*-weighted GE and 19 SWI sequences. In presumed brain tumors, abnormal vascular structures were detected in 11 of 27 (40.7%) cases on T2*-weighted GE and in 16 of 27 (59.3%) cases on SWI, likely representing tumor neovascularization; amorphous ASV interpreted as presumed hemorrhages on T2*-weighted GE were diagnosed as vessels on SWI in five of 27 (18.5%) cases. Since SWI shows ASV more conspicuously than T2*-weighted GE, the authors advocate the use of SWI in veterinary patients.

Magnetic resonance imaging features of presumed intracerebral hemorrhages in dogs show a significant association between apparent diffusion coefficient peripheral layer and estimated bleeding age and commonly exhibit a T2 blackout effect.

In humans, intracranial hematomas commonly exhibit a T2 blackout effect (BOE) with diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) and apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) maps. Published descriptions of comparable findings in dogs with intracerebral hemorrhages are lacking. Aims of this retrospective observational study were to describe the appearance of presumed intracerebral hemorrhages (PICHs) in DWI regardless of the underlying etiology and presence of T2 blackout effect (T2 BOE) in dogs and to test potential associations with DWI and ADC findings versus the estimated age of the hemorrhage. Magnetic resonance imaging studies of dogs with presumed PICHs based on the combined evaluation of T2*W gradient echo and/or susceptibility-weighted imaging, T1W and T2W images were enrolled. The age of the hemorrhage was estimated according to published criteria based on T1W and T2W sequences. The association between the age of the hemorrhage and the appearance of each finding (stratified or mixed), their signal intensities in DWI/ADC and the presence of the T2 BOE, was evaluated. A total of 35 PICHs were included: 13 of them were stratified and 22 had a mixed aspect. Only the ADC appearance of the peripheral layer in stratified PICHs was significantly associated with estimated age of the hemorrhage (p = .033), being hypointense in all hyperacute cases and hypo-/isointense in acute cases. The T2 BOE was present in 29/35 PICHs. The DWI sequences showed limited utility to date PICHs in this study population. As in humans, the T2 BOE was commonly seen in DWI and ADC maps of dogs with PICHs.

MRI and CT features of a disc herniation through a fractured lumbar vertebra causing lumbar spinal cord compression in a dog.

A 5-year-old intact male Saint Bernard was presented for paraparesis following a fall down the stairs. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed a chronic fragmentation of the dorsocaudal aspect of the second lumbar vertebral body (L2). Material migrated from the L2 to L3 intervertebral space through the fractured caudal vertebral endplate into the vertebral body and reached the vertebral canal, resulting in a severe extradural compressive myelopathy. Computed tomography confirmed the vertebral fragmentation. Histology of surgically removed compressive material revealed fibrocartilaginous material. The uncommon route of the extruded disc material through a fractured vertebral body makes this case of traumatic disc extrusion unusual.

Traffic Flow Detection Using Camera Images and Machine Learning Methods in ITS for Noise Map and Action Plan Optimization.

Noise maps and action plans represent the main tools in the fight against citizens' exposure to noise, especially that produced by road traffic. The present and the future in smart traffic control is represented by Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS), which however have not yet been sufficiently studied as possible noise-mitigation tools. However, ITS dedicated to traffic control rely on models and input data that are like those required for road traffic noise mapping. The present work developed an instrumentation based on low-cost cameras and a vehicle recognition and counting methodology using modern machine learning techniques, compliant with the requirements of the CNOSSOS-EU noise assessment model. The instrumentation and methodology could be integrated with existing ITS for traffic control in order to design an integrated method, which could also provide updated data over time for noise maps and action plans. The test was carried out as a follow up of the L.I.S.T. Port project, where an ITS was installed for road traffic management in the Italian port city of Piombino. The acoustic efficacy of the installation is evaluated by looking at the difference in the acoustic impact on the population before and after the ITS installation by means of the distribution of noise exposure, the evaluation of Gden and Gnight, and the calculation of the number of highly annoyed and sleep-disturbed citizens. Finally, it is shown how the ITS system represents a valid solution to be integrated with targeted and more specific sound mitigation, such as the laying of low-emission asphalts.

Malignant Nerve Sheath Tumor of the Hypoglossal Nerve in a Maltese Dog.

A 4 yr old male Maltese dog presented with a 1 wk history of intermittent neck pain and progressive difficulty walking. Neurologic evaluation was consistent with a left-sided brainstem lesion. On oral examination, left lingual hemiatrophy was evident suggesting hypoglossal nerve involvement. A dumbbell-shaped extra-axial mass in the left side of the caudal fossa extending extracranially through the hypoglossal canal was detected by MRI. At postmortem histologic examination, the hypoglossal nerve was diffusely infiltrated by fusiform neoplastic cells arranged in Antoni A and Antoni B patterns. This is the first description of a malignant nerve sheath tumor selectively involving the hypoglossal nerve in a dog.

Vertebral vascular canal dysplasia in French and English Bulldogs: Clinical, CT, and MRI characteristics and prevalence.

The authors have observed a vertebral anomaly in French and English Bulldogs and termed this anomaly "vertebral vascular canal dysplasia (VVCD)." No previously published descriptions of this anomaly were found. The aims of this retrospective, multi-institutional, observational study were to (1) describe the clinical, CT, and MRI characteristics of VVCD, and (2) estimate the prevalence and describe the characteristics of VVCD in a group of French and English Bulldogs. For descriptions of the anomaly, medical records and imaging studies of nine clinical cases with VVCD from several countries were reviewed. For estimation of prevalence, imaging studies of French and English Bulldogs from the United Kingdom (UK) and Italy were reviewed. All clinical case dogs had ≥5 thoracic vertebrae with VVCD affecting >50% of vertebral body height (VBH). The prevalence of VVCD involving ≥1 thoracic vertebra in the UK population (CT identified) of English Bulldogs and French Bulldogs was, respectively, 83.3% (30/36) and 68.3% (28/41). English Bulldogs had significantly more thoracic vertebrae with VVCD than French Bulldogs (P = < 0.01). The prevalence of VVCD in ≥1 thoracic vertebra in the Italian population (MRI identified) of English Bulldogs and French Bulldogs was, respectively, 21.7% (5/23) and 6.6% (7/106). Vertebral vascular canal dysplasia was observed in normal as well as in malformed vertebrae (e.g., hemivertebrae). Findings from the current study introduced descriptions of VVCD that can be used as background for future studies.

Can MRI differentiate between ring-enhancing gliomas and intra-axial abscesses?

Gliomas of the brain may appear as expansile ring-enhancing masses in MRI studies, mimicking the appearance of intra-axial abscesses. The aims of this study were to compare the MRI features of ring-enhancing gliomas and intra-axial brain abscesses in dogs and cats and to identify the characteristics that might help differentiate them. For this multicenter, retrospective, and observational study, the inclusion criteria were as follows: (a) a definitive diagnosis of glioma or abscess based on cytological or histopathological examination following CSF collection or surgical biopsy/necropsy, respectively; (b) MRI study performed with a high- or low-field MRI scanner, including a same plane T1W pre- and postcontrast, a T2W and a T2 FLAIR sequence in at least one plane. If available, delayed T1W postcontrast, T2*W GE, DWI/ADC, and SWI sequences were also evaluated. Sixteen patients were diagnosed with ring-enhancing gliomas, and 15 were diagnosed with intra-axial abscesses. A homogenous signal on T1W (P = 0.049) and T2W (P = 0.042) sequences, a T2W (P = 0.005) or T2*W GE (P = 0.046) peripheral hypointense halo, and an even enhancing capsule (P = 0.002) were significantly associated with brain abscesses. A progressive central enhancement on delayed T1W postcontrast sequences was correlated with ring-enhancing gliomas (P = 0.009). The combination of the following features was suggestive of brain abscess: homogeneous T1W or T2W signal intensity, a T2W or T2*W GE peripheral hypointense halo and an evenly enhancing capsule. Central progression of enhancement on delayed T1W postcontrast sequences was suggestive of glioma.

Clinical, MRI, and Histopathological Features of Hypothalamic Neuronal Hamartoma in a Young Vizsla.

Human hypothalamic neuronal hamartomas are rare, nonprogressive, congenital malformations of the hypothalamus that do not expand or metastasize to other locations. A 1 yr old female vizsla was presented for progressive intracranial multifocal neurological signs present since adoption at 3 mo of age. MRI of the brain showed an ill-defined, intra-axial, space-occupying, nonenhancing lesion located in the ventral middle cranial fossa. Histopathological examination was consistent with hypothalamic neuronal hamartoma. This is the first report describing clinical, imaging, and histopathological features of a hypothalamic neuronal hamartoma in a dog. These findings are compared with their human counterparts.

Perilesional photobiomodulation therapy and physical rehabilitation in post-operative recovery of dogs surgically treated for thoracolumbar disk extrusion.

BACKGROUND: Recent studies have reported contrasting results of the effects of laser therapy on post-operative intervertebral disk herniation, with a lack of evidence-based advantages of this modality within a rehabilitation protocol. The aim of this study was to report the clinical effects of photobiomodulation therapy within a post-operative rehabilitation protocol in dogs submitted to surgery for thoracolumbar disk extrusion. Twenty-four dogs were included in the study (12 dogs treated with laser therapy and rehabilitation protocol and 12 dogs treated with same rehabilitation protocol but without laser therapy). RESULTS: All dogs treated with laser therapy showed improved neurological status (Modified Frankel Score more than 3 within 30 days of physiotherapy starting) if deep nociception on admission was maintained (P = 0.04). However, Kaplan-Meier analysis did not show any statistical difference in time to regain ambulatory ability, although there was a tendency for a shorter mean time of 14.2 ± 8.55 days in the laser group versus 24 ± 18.49 days in the no laser group. CONCLUSIONS: The use of laser therapy in the post-operative rehabilitation of dogs affected by intervertebral disc extrusion and submitted to surgery for spinal decompression could help improve their neurological status.

Comparison of the efficacy of two ventilatory strategies in improving arterial oxygen tension and content in anaesthetized sheep.

OBJECTIVE: To compare F-shunt and oxygen content indices in sheep ventilated with a positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) of 5 cmH2O alone or preceded by a stepwise alveolar recruitment manoeuvre (ARM). STUDY DESIGN: Randomized crossover design. ANIMALS: A total of six nonpregnant Brogna ewes weighing 34-47 kg, undergoing thoracolumbar magnetic resonance scan. METHODS: In medetomidine-sedated sheep, anaesthesia was induced with propofol and maintained with isoflurane 1.1% ± 0.1% and an inspired oxygen fraction (FiO2) of 0.4. Animals were placed in left lateral recumbency and, after 10 minutes of spontaneous breathing, mechanically ventilated with 5 cmH2O of PEEP with (group ARM) or without (group PEEP) a stepwise recruitment manoeuvre. Maintaining a fixed driving pressure of 15 cmH2O, PEEP was increased from 0 to 20 cmH2O every 3 minutes in 5 cmH2O increments. In each sheep, arterial blood samples were collected to measure arterial gases and to calculate F-shunt, PaO2/alveolar oxygen partial pressure (PAO2) and PaO2/FIO2 during spontaneous breathing before mechanical ventilation (T0), after 20 minutes of ventilation (T20) and during spontaneous breathing at extubation (Text). RESULTS: Both ventilatory strategies improved the arterial oxygen content although four animals in group PEEP showed oxygen content compatible with hypoxia compared with group ARM. F-shunt values were not statistically different at any time point in sheep that underwent only PEEP ventilation while they decreased at T20 and Text compared with T0 in group ARM. At extubation F-shunt was statistically lower in sheep that underwent an ARM. Mechanical ventilation improved PaO2/PAO2 and PaO2/FIO2 but they did not differ between groups. CONCLUSIONS: and clinical relevance The stepwise ARM evaluated in this study improved oxygenation indices and decreased F-shunt. This effect was maintained at extubation compared with sheep that were ventilated with only PEEP 5 cmH2O.

Auto-Allo Graft Parallel Juxtaposition for Improved Neuroregeneration in Peripheral Nerve Reconstruction Based on Acellular Nerve Allografts.

INTRODUCTION: Nerve repair poses a significant surgical challenge, and much research on this topic for improvement in reconstruction of segmental defects is ongoing. The aims of the study were to reconfirm the accuracy and safety of a previously described nerve decellularization method on a larger experimental population of rabbits, as well as on human nerves, and to establish in vivo the efficacy of a new-concept mixed graft, comprising autologous and acellular nerve allograft components within the same graft. METHODS: Acellular nerve allografts were implanted into tibial nerve defects of 5 rabbits (group A), autografts were implanted, representing the criterion standard, in other 5 animals (group B), and the innovative technique was used in the remaining 5 (group C). Twelve weeks postoperatively, nerve conduction evaluations were performed; animals were euthanatized, and grafts were harvested and morphologically, histomorphometrically, and immunohistochemically analyzed. Eventually, a preliminary in vitro validation of the decellularization method was performed on human nerves from a cadaver. RESULTS: No clinical adverse effect was revealed during all the experimental times. No tissue reaction was observed, and in all groups, regenerated fascicles and bundles were shown by histology. However, both histology and histomorphometry demonstrated a better regenerative efficiency in group C. The morphological evaluation of the human nerve treated with the novel method showed complete decellularization. CONCLUSION: The microsurgical combined model demonstrated a better neuroregeneration than did pure autografts and acellular nerve allografts. The decellularization method seemed effective also on human nerves. Deeper investigations are necessary to further validate and transfer this new encouraging protocol to the clinical arena.

A methodological approach for deep learning to distinguish between meningiomas and gliomas on canine MR-images.

BACKGROUND: Distinguishing between meningeal-based and intra-axial lesions by means of magnetic resonance (MR) imaging findings may occasionally be challenging. Meningiomas and gliomas account for most of the total primary brain neoplasms in dogs, and differentiating between these two forms is mandatory in choosing the correct therapy. The aims of the present study are: 1) to determine the accuracy of a deep convolutional neural network (CNN, GoogleNet) in discriminating between meningiomas and gliomas in pre- and post-contrast T1 images and T2 images; 2) to develop an image classifier, based on the combination of CNN and MRI sequence displaying the highest accuracy, to predict whether a lesion is a meningioma or a glioma. RESULTS: Eighty cases with a final diagnosis of meningioma (n = 56) and glioma (n = 24) from two different institutions were included in the study. A pre-trained CNN was retrained on our data through a process called transfer learning. To evaluate CNN accuracy in the different imaging sequences, the dataset was divided into a training, a validation and a test set. The accuracy of the CNN was calculated on the test set. The combination between post-contrast T1 images and CNN was chosen in developing the image classifier (trCNN). Ten images from challenging cases were excluded from the database in order to test trCNN accuracy; the trCNN was trained on the remainder of the dataset of post-contrast T1 images, and correctly classified all the selected images. To compensate for the imbalance between meningiomas and gliomas in the dataset, the Matthews correlation coefficient (MCC) was also calculated. The trCNN showed an accuracy of 94% (MCC = 0.88) on post-contrast T1 images, 91% (MCC = 0.81) on pre-contrast T1-images and 90% (MCC = 0.8) on T2 images. CONCLUSIONS: The developed trCNN could be a reliable tool in distinguishing between different meningiomas and gliomas from MR images.

Dorsal midbrain syndrome associated with persistent neck extension: Clinical and diagnostic imaging findings in 2 dogs.

Two young dogs were evaluated for an acute onset of abnormal head posture and eye movement. Neurological examination was characterized mostly by permanent neck extension, abnormalities of pupils, and eye movement. A mesencephalic mass lesion was detected on magnetic resonance imaging in both cases. Neurophysiological pathways likely responsible for this peculiar clinical presentation are discussed.

Syndrome du mésencéphale dorsal associé à une extension du cou persistante : résultats de l'évaluation clinique et de l'imagerie diagnostique chez 2 chiens. Deux jeunes chiens ont été évalués suite à l'apparition soudaine d'une posture de tête et d'un mouvement des yeux anormaux. Un examen neurologique a été caractérisé surtout par une extension permanente du cou, des anomalies des pupilles et un mouvement des yeux. Une masse mésencéphalique a été détectée à l'imagerie par résonance magnétique dans les deux cas. Les voies neurophysiologiques, qui étaient probablement responsables de cette présentation clinique, sont discutées.(Traduit par Isabelle Vallières).

The transpedicular approach for the study of intervertebral disc regeneration strategies: in vivo characterization.

PURPOSE: To characterize in vivo the transpedicular approach (TA) as an alternative route to study intervertebral disc (IVD) regeneration strategies in a sheep model. METHODS: 48 IVD of 12 sheep were used. TA was performed under fluoroscopy, followed by nucleotomy (2-mm shaver resector). A polyurethane scaffold was used to repair the end-plate. X-ray and MRI images were acquired pre-, intra- and post-operatively (1, 3, 6 months). Complications were recorded. RESULTS: TA was feasible in all animals; nucleus pulposus (NP) from L1 to L5 was accessible. Nucleotomy followed by end-plate repair was achieved. Loss of NP signal intensity was shown in MRI images of the nucleotomy group. CONCLUSIONS: TA is feasible in vivo, repeatable after only a short learning period and safely performed without significant morbidity. This animal model allows the study of IVD degeneration physiopathology and investigation of IVD regeneration techniques in vivo.

Primary diffuse leptomeningeal gliomatosis in 2 dogs.

Clinical, neuroimaging, and neuropathological findings of 2 cases of canine primary diffuse leptomeningeal gliomatosis are described. Magnetic resonance imaging and histopathological examination of the brain revealed diffuse leptomeningeal alterations with no parenchymal involvement. These cases share many similarities with the same disease in humans.

Gliomatose leptoméningée diffuse primaire chez 2 chiens. Les constatations cliniques ainsi que les résultats de la neuroimagerie et de la neuropathologie de 2 cas de gliomatose leptoméningée diffuse primaire sont décrits. L'imagerie par résonance magnétique et l'examen histopathologique du cerveau ont révélé des altérations leptoméningées sans atteinte parenchymateuse. Ces cas partagent beaucoup de similitudes avec la même maladie chez les humains.(Traduit par Isabelle Vallières).

Prevalence, MRI findings, and clinical features of lumbosacral intervertebral disc protrusion in French Bulldogs diagnosed with acute thoracic or lumbar intervertebral disc extrusion.

Introduction: Intervertebral disc protrusion (IVDP) is a neurological disorder commonly observed at the lumbosacral junction of old, medium-to-large breeds, non-chondrodystrophic dogs. Although uncommon, lumbosacral IVDP can also be seen in chondrodystrophic dogs, among them French Bulldogs (FBs) and could be associated with congenital vertebral malformations in this breed. This study aims to evaluate the prevalence, clinical features, and MRI characteristics of lumbosacral IVDP and congenital vertebral malformations in FBs diagnosed with thoracic or lumbar intervertebral disc extrusion (IVDE) and to evaluate the possible interference of the neurologic deficits related to chronic IVDP on neurological examination. Materials and methods: This is a single-center, retrospective case series. A search for FBs diagnosed with IVDE affecting the thoracic or lumbar regions is done on the database of the AniCura I Portoni Rossi Veterinary Hospital (Zola Predosa, Bologna, Italy). Eligible dogs have a complete medical report and a high-field MRI of the lumbosacral junction. MRIs of the lumbosacral junction are evaluated to determine the position of IVDP, cranial intervertebral foraminal stenosis, and signs of nerve root involvement. Radiographs, when available, are reviewed to identify the presence of lumbosacral congenital vertebral malformations. Results: Eighty FBs are included in the study. The prevalence of lumbosacral IVDP among FBs is 91.3%. Among FBs with lumbosacral IVDP, 45.0% show concurrent cranial intervertebral foraminal stenosis, 28.8% exhibit concurrent nerve root involvement, 56.2% appear to be asymptomatic for lumbosacral changes, while 15.1% manifest a decreased or absent withdrawal reflex as a supposed consequence of chronic lumbosacral IVDP. Congenital vertebral malformations are detected in 10 dogs. Conclusion: The results of this study support the hypothesis that lumbosacral IVDP is frequent in FBs presenting with thoracic or lumbar IVDE. In over half the dogs lumbosacral IVDP appears to be asymptomatic; however, in other cases, chronic lumbosacral IVDP seems to cause neurological deficits that may lead to erroneous localization of acute IVDE, representing a confounding factor for clinicians.

Case report: Sacral agenesis in two boxer dogs: clinical presentation, diagnostic investigations, and outcome.

Two boxer dogs from the same litter were presented at 3 months of age for urinary and fecal incontinence. Both dogs had an abnormal tail consisting of a small stump, an atonic anal sphincter, and absent perineal reflex and sensation. Neurological evaluation was indicative of a lesion of the cauda equina or sacral spinal cord. Radiology and CT scan of the spine displayed similar findings in the two dogs that were indicative of sacral agenesis. Indeed, they had 6 lumbar vertebrae followed by a lumbosacral transitional vertebra, lacking a complete spinous process, and a hypoplastic vertebra carrying 2 hypoplastic sacral transverse processes as the only remnant of the sacral bone. Caudal vertebrae were absent in one of the dogs. On MRI, one dog had a dural sac occupying the entire spinal canal and ending in a subfascial fat structure. In the other dog, the dural sac finished in an extracanalar, subfascial, well-defined cystic structure, communicating with the subarachnoid space, and consistent with a meningocele. Sacral agenesis-that is the partial or complete absence of the sacral bones-is a neural tube defect occasionally reported in humans with spina bifida occulta. Sacral agenesis has been described in human and veterinary medicine in association with conditions such as caudal regression syndrome, perosomus elumbis, and Currarino syndrome. These neural tube defects are caused by genetic and/or environmental factors. Despite thorough genetic investigation, no candidate variants in genes with known functional impact on bone development or sacral development could be found in the affected dogs. To the best of the authors' knowledge, this is the first report describing similar sacral agenesis in two related boxer dogs.

Are postnatal traumatic events an underestimated cause of porencephalic lesions in dogs and cats?

Introduction: Porencephaly is defined as a fluid-filled cavity of variable size in the brain cortex. It is regarded as a congenital condition and is typically considered a developmental or an encephaloclastic defect. Our hypothesis is that postnatal traumatic events in the first few months of life may represent a cause of canine and feline porencephaly that is more common than generally suspected. The aims of this study were to retrospectively investigate porencephaly in a large population of dogs and cats, detect MRI features that might be useful to differentiate postnatal acquired traumatic forms from congenital/perinatal porencephaly, and define the prevalence of seizure activity in porencephalic patients. Materials and methods: This is a double-center, descriptive, retrospective case series. Databases were searched for cases within a 17-year time span that involve dogs and cats with an MRI-based diagnosis of cerebral cavitary lesions. Animals were included if a complete signalment and an exhaustive MRI of the brain were available. Besides the porencephalic lesions, MRIs of the head were reviewed to detect concomitant musculoskeletal abnormalities. Results: Thirty-two cases involving nine cats and twenty-three dogs were selected. Of all the cases, 21.9% were aged six years or older at the time of diagnosis. All patients in which the neuroanatomical localization was available showed clinical signs of a prosencephalic disorder. Epileptic seizures were observed in 71.8% of cases. A single porencephalic cavity was found in 78.1% of cases. The most affected cerebral lobe was the parietal lobe (n = 20). The defects involved both the grey and white matter in 78.1% of cases. Twenty cases showed concomitant musculoskeletal abnormalities overlying the porencephalic cavities. Fourteen of twenty cases showed evidence of fractures, of which thirteen showed depression of the calvarium and twelve masticatory muscle abnormalities. Of these, seven of fourteen had a history consistent with a head trauma in the first period of life. Conclusion: The recognition of skull fractures and muscular abnormalities closely associated with the porencephalic cavity may support a diagnosis of a postnatal traumatic origin of porencephaly. Therefore, this study highlights the importance of evaluating musculoskeletal structures in the MRIs of the heads of porencephalic cases.

Prevalence of idiopathic epilepsy and structural epilepsy in 74 Boxer dogs in a referral hospital.

The prevalence of idiopathic epilepsy and structural epilepsy in Boxer dogs is unknown. The aim of this retrospective study was to evaluate the prevalence of structural and idiopathic epilepsy in the Boxer population. A total of 74 Boxer dogs were included in the study from the database of one referral hospital and the following were recorded: signalment, history, clinical findings and results of advanced diagnostic imaging. Five dogs (6.8%) were diagnosed with idiopathic epilepsy, of which one was in the <6 months age group, three were in the 6-72 months age group and one was in the >72 months age group. Sixty-nine dogs (93.2%) were diagnosed with structural epilepsy. Sixty-six had a suspected intracranial neoplasia: Eight were in the 6-72 months age group and represent 66.7% of the dogs in that age group. The other fifty-eight were in the >72 months age group and represent 96.7% of the dogs in that age group. In our Boxer population, 81.8% of the patients had a suspected intra-axial tumor and 22.7% of dogs with an intracranial pathology nevertheless had a normal neurological examination. In conclusion, in the majority of boxer patients the cause of epilepsy is a suspected intracranial neoplasia regardless of the age at presentation. Considering the finding in this study of a low prevalence of presumed idiopathic epilepsy in the Boxer breed, it is recommended that patients who satisfy Tier I confidence level of the "International Veterinary Epilepsy Task Force" (IVETF) also undergo an MRI study of the brain.