Fraser McConnell

Bio: Fraser McConnell is an academic researcher from University of Liverpool. The author has contributed to research in topics: Magnetic resonance imaging & Myelopathy. The author has an hindex of 12, co-authored 22 publications receiving 437 citations. Previous affiliations of Fraser McConnell include Animal Health Trust.

Association of clinical and magnetic resonance imaging findings with outcome in dogs with presumptive acute noncompressive nucleus pulposus extrusion: 42 cases (2000–2007)

Abstract: Objective—To assess associations of severity of neurologic signs (neurologic score), involvement of an intumescence, and findings of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with interval to recovery and outcome in dogs with presumptive acute noncompressive nucleus pulposus extrusions. Design—Retrospective case series. Animals—42 dogs with presumptive acute noncompressive nucleus pulposus extrusions. Procedures—Medical records and magnetic resonance (MR) images of dogs evaluated from 2000 through 2007 were reviewed. Inclusion criteria were acute onset of nonprogressive myelopathy following trauma or strenuous exercise, MRI of the spine performed within 7 days after onset, MRI findings consistent with acute noncompressive nucleus pulposus extrusions, and complete medical records and follow-up. Results—Clinical neuroanatomic localization of lesions was to the C1-C5 (n = 6), C6-T2 (6), T3-L3 (28), and L4-S3 (2) spinal cord segments. Median neurologic score was 3.5. Median duration of follow-up was 804 days (range, 3...

Magnetic resonance imaging findings and clinical associations in 52 dogs with suspected ischemic myelopathy.

Abstract: Background: The magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) features of ischemic myelopathy have been described in the human literature and in a small number of cases in the veterinary literature. Hypothesis: The aims of this study were to identify associations among MRI findings, timing of imaging, and presenting neurologic deficits in a large series of dogs with a presumptive diagnosis of ischemic myelopathy. Animals and Methods: The medical records and MR images of dogs with a presumptive diagnosis of ischemic myelopathy (2000–2006) were reviewed retrospectively. Inclusion criteria were acute onset of nonprogressive and nonpainful myelopathy, 1.5-tesla MRI of the spine performed within 7 days of onset, and complete medical records and follow-up information. Presumptive diagnosis was based on history, as well as clinical, MRI, and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) findings. The extent of the lesion on MRI was assessed as the following: (1) the ratio between the length of the hyperintense area on sagittal T2-weighted images and the length of C6 or L2 vertebral body, and (2) the maximal cross-sectional area of the hyperintense area on transverse T2-weighted images as a percentage of cross-sectional area of the spinal cord. Results: Fifty-two dogs met the inclusion criteria. MRI findings were abnormal in 41 dogs and normal in 11 dogs. The presence of MRI abnormalities was not significantly associated with the timing of imaging (P= .3) but was associated with ambulatory status on presentation (P= .04). Severity of signs on presentation was associated with extent of the lesion on MRI (P= .02). Conclusion and Clinical Importance: The severity of signs on presentation is associated with the presence and the extent of the lesion on MRI.

Magnetic resonance imaging features of spinal epidural empyema in five dogs.

Abstract: Spinal epidural empyema is defined an accumulation of purulent material in the epidural space of the vertebral canal. Spinal epidural empyema should be considered as a differential diagnosis in dogs with pyrexia, spinal pain, and rapidly progressing myelopathy. Magnetic resonance (MR) imaging is the imaging test of choice in humans. Here, we describe the MR imaging features of five dogs with confirmed spinal epidural empyema. The epidural lesions appeared as high or mixed signal masses in T2-weighted (T2W) images. Increased signal within the spinal cord gray matter at the site of the lesion was detected in T2W images in all dogs. Two patterns of enhancement were detected on postcontrast T1-weighted (T1W) images. Mild to moderate peripheral enhancement was seen in three dogs and a diffuse pattern of enhancement was seen in one. Discospondylitis was identified in three dogs on T1W postcontrast images. Decompressive spinal surgery was performed in all dogs. Bacteria isolated from the abnormal epidural tissue were Enterobacter cloacae, coagulase-positive Staphylococci, Pasteurella multocida, and Escherichia coli. In one dog bacteria were not isolated. These MR imaging features, along with appropriate clinical signs, can allow prompt diagnosis and appropriate treatment planning.

Magnetic resonance imaging features of discospondylitis in dogs.

Abstract: The diagnosis of discospondylitis is based mainly on diagnostic imaging and laboratory results. Herein, we describe the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings in 13 dogs with confirmed discospondylitis. In total there were 17 sites of discospondylitis. Eleven (81.1%) of the dogs had spinal pain for >3 weeks and a variable degree of neurologic signs. Two dogs had spinal pain and ataxia for 4 days. Radiographs were available in nine of the dogs. In MR images there was always involvement of two adjacent vertebral endplates and the associated disk. The involved endplates and adjacent marrow were T1-hypointense with hyperintensity in short tau inversion recovery (STIR) images in all dogs, and all dogs also had contrast enhancement of endplates and paravertebral tissues. The intervertebral disks were hyperintense in T2W and STIR images and characterized by contrast enhancement in 15 sites (88.2%). Endplate erosion was present in 15 sites (88.2%) and was associated with T2-hypointense bone marrow adjacent to it. In two sites (11.8%) endplate erosion was not MR images or radiographically. The vertebral bone marrow in these sites was T2-hyperintense. Epidural extension was conspicuous in postcontrast images at 15 sites (88.2%). Spinal cord compression was present at 15 sites (88.2%), and all affected dogs had neurologic signs. Subluxation was present in two sites (11.8%). MRI shows characteristic features of discospondylitis, and it allows the recognition of the exact location and extension (to the epidural space and paravertebral soft tissues) of the infection. Furthermore, MRI increases lesion conspicuity in early discospondylitis that may not be visualized by radiography.

Emerging canine angiostrongylosis in northern England: five fatal cases.

Abstract: Angiostrongylus vasorum is a metastrongylid nematode parasite that resides in the pulmonary arteries and right ventricle of dogs and other canids Since its discovery in France in 1866 by Baillet ([Rosen and others 1970][1]), A vasorum has been reported in dogs in Europe (Denmark, France, Germany,

Canine and feline cardiopulmonary parasitic nematodes in Europe: emerging and underestimated

Abstract: Cardiopulmonary nematodes of dogs and cats cause parasitic diseases of central relevance in current veterinary practice. In the recent past the distribution of canine and feline heartworms and lungworms has increased in various geographical areas, including Europe. This is true especially for the metastrongyloids Aelurostrongylus abstrusus, Angiostrongylus vasorum and Crenosoma vulpis, the filarioid Dirofilaria immitis and the trichuroid Eucoleus aerophilus (syn. Capillaria aerophila). The reasons of this emergence are little known but many drivers such as global warming, changes in vector epidemiology and movements in animal populations, may be taken into account. The purpose of this article is to review the knowledge of the most important heartworm and lungworm infections of dogs and cats in Europe. In particular recent advances in epidemiology, clinical and control are described and discussed.

Intervertebral disk degeneration in dogs: consequences, diagnosis, treatment, and future directions.

Abstract: Evidence of intervertebral disk degeneration (IVDD) is extremely common in dogs, and its prevalence increases with age. It has many important consequences because degeneration of the intervertebral disks often is a prelude to disk herniation, which can injure the spinal cord, spinal nerves, or both. This review summarizes the advances in diagnosis and treatment of IVDD that have been made since the 1950s when the first detailed description of the degenerative changes was published. It also discusses new approaches to treatment of the associated spinal cord injury and new methods by which to classify injury severity that are currently under development.

Canine angiostrongylosis: an emerging disease in Europe

Abstract: Objective – The aim of this article is to review Angiostrongylus vasorum infection in dogs, including the life cycle, signalment, clinical signs, diagnosis, and treatment. Apparent changes in the epidemiology of this unique parasite are considered, alongside information available regarding its recent geographic spread. Etiology – A. vasorum is a metastrongyloid parasite capable of causing an array of clinical problems in dogs, including cardiorespiratory, coagulopathic, and neurologic signs. Currently, the parasite has a worldwide distribution; however, it usually arises in small pockets of enzootic foci. Recent reports suggest a changing distribution of this parasite, which has renewed interest in its epidemiology and in the risk of expansion to new areas including mainland North America. Diagnosis – A definitive diagnosis of angiostrongylosis is usually made using the modified Baermann technique either using feces or tracheobronchial secretions; however, this review also discusses novel methods such as serologic and molecular techniques. Therapy – Once a diagnosis of angiostrongylosis is made, prompt treatment should follow with anthelmintic drugs (such as moxidectin/imidacloprid, milbemycin oxime, or fenbendazole) and supportive care dependent upon the patient's clinical signs. Currently, there is no proven prophylactic regime. Prognosis – The prognosis appears to be very dependent upon the severity of clinical signs at presentation. A. vasorum can be fatal and death may be sudden. However, if a prompt diagnosis is made and appropriate treatment is administered complete clinical resolution is possible.