Fibrocartilaginous embolic myelopathy (FCE) is a condition in dogs where a blood clot, or emboli, forms in the blood vessels of the spinal cord, leading to impaired function and eventual atrophy of the affected area. While the exact cause of FCE is not fully understood, it is believed to be primarily the result of spinal cord injury.
Spinal cord injuries in dogs can occur due to a variety of reasons, including trauma, such as falls, car accidents, or rough play, as well as degenerative conditions like intervertebral disc disease. When the spinal cord is injured, it can lead to the rupture or displacement of the intervertebral disc, which is the soft cushion between the bones of the spine. This can result in compression or damage to the blood vessels supplying the spinal cord, leading to the formation of blood clots.
The presence of blood clots in the spinal cord disrupts the blood flow and oxygen supply to the affected area, causing tissue damage and subsequent atrophy. The emboli themselves are composed of fibrocartilaginous material, which is a type of connective tissue found in the intervertebral discs. When the disc material becomes dislodged and enters the blood vessels, it can block the flow of blood and cause further damage to the spinal cord.
It’s important to note that while FCE is commonly associated with spinal cord injuries, not all injuries result in the development of blood clots in the spinal cord. The exact reasons why some dogs develop FCE while others do not are still not entirely known. It is believed that individual variations in blood vessel anatomy, as well as the specific circumstances surrounding the injury, may play a role in determining the likelihood of clot formation.
In my experience as a veterinarian, I have encountered cases of FCE in dogs that have suffered from various types of spinal injuries. One memorable case involved a young Labrador Retriever who had a high-speed collision with a tree while playing fetch. The impact caused severe trauma to the spine, resulting in the formation of blood clots and subsequent paralysis.
It is worth noting that FCE is not a common condition in dogs and is generally considered a rare occurrence. The majority of dogs who experience spinal cord injuries do not develop blood clots in the spinal cord. However, when FCE does occur, it can have significant consequences for the affected dog’s mobility and overall quality of life.
To summarize, the cause of blood clots on a dog’s spine, specifically in cases of fibrocartilaginous embolic myelopathy, is typically a result of a spinal cord injury. Trauma or degenerative conditions can lead to the displacement of intervertebral disc material, which can block blood vessels and cause the formation of blood clots. While the exact reasons for clot formation in some dogs and not others are not fully understood, individual variations in blood vessel anatomy and the specific circumstances of the injury may contribute to their development.