Congenital scoliosis in a quarter horse filly.

The study presents a case of congenital scoliosis in a 4-week old Quarter Horse filly, diagnosed with the help of radiographs and computed tomography which revealed an underdevelopment of several thoracic vertebrae resulting in scoliosis of the thoracic vertebral column and deviation of the left and right chest wall including associated ribs.

Case Presentation

• The research revolves around a 4-week old Quarter Horse filly who was brought in for evaluation due to an abnormal gait and a noticeable lateral deviation of the cervical spine. This deviation is essentially a bend in the neck area of the spine, immediately suggesting the possibility of a spinal abnormality.

Physical Examination and Diagnosis

• The initial physical examination of the filly revealed noticeable abnormalities which led to further diagnostic procedures. Radiographs and computed tomography (CT) scan of the horse’s thoracic vertebral column were performed. These are imaging techniques used to provide detailed pictures of areas inside the body.
• The resulting radiographic and CT scans revealed hypoplasia of several thoracic vertebral bodies. Hypoplasia refers to the underdevelopment or incomplete development of a tissue or organ. In this case, the filly’s thoracic vertebrae – the section of the spine connected to the ribs – were underdeveloped.
• This hypoplasia resulted in scoliosis of the thoracic vertebral column. Scoliosis is a medical condition where the spine develops a sideways curve, usually in the shape of an “S” or “C”. Here, the sideways curvature was observed in the ravine region of the horse’s spine.
• The underdevelopment of the thoracic vertebral bodies also caused a deviation of the left and right hemithoraces and associated ribs. Hemithoraces refer to the two lateral parts of the thorax, which house the lungs. In the filly’s case, both sides of the thorax were deviated or displaced from the standard alignment.

Conclusion

• The study concluded that the diagnostic tools used provided an accurate description of the vertebral malformations resulting in scoliosis in this foal. This case contributes to veterinary literature as it presents how radiography and CT can be useful tools in diagnosing scoliosis, especially in animals where it is not common. It further emphasizes the need for immediate attention in case of visible physical abnormality in newborn horses.