Evaluation of intervertebral disk degeneration in chondrodystrophic and nonchondrodystrophic dogs by use of Pfirrmann grading of images obtained with low-field magnetic resonance imaging

Authors:
  • EAEdoardo Auriemma
    Edoardo Auriemma
  • SWSaffiera Wijsman
    Saffiera Wijsman
  • GVGeorge Voorhout
    George Voorhout
  • RHRagnvi Hagman
    Ragnvi Hagman
  • ALAnne-Sofie Lagerstedt
    Anne-Sofie Lagerstedt
  • HHHerman A. W. Hazewinkel
    Herman A. W. Hazewinkel
  • BMBjörn P. Meij
    Björn P. Meij
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Abstract
Objective—To assess whether the Pfirrmann system for grading lumbar intervertebral disk (IVD) degeneration in humans can also be used in dogs. Animals—202 dogs. Procedures—Magnetic resonance imaging was used to obtain images of vertebral segments from dogs, which were reviewed separately by 3 observers who graded the extent of degeneration in each visible IVD by use of the Pfirrmann classification system used for grading lumbar IVD degeneration in humans. Grading was validated against 2 factors associated with the extent of disk degeneration: type of dog (chondrodystrophic or nonchondrodystrophic breeds) and age. Results—Interobserver and intraobserver agreement for Pfirrmann grading of IVD degeneration were good (κ scores, 0.81 to 0.93). An increase in the extent of disk degeneration was positively correlated with increases in age and with chondrodystrophic breed. Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—The Pfirrmann system was reliably used to grade IVD degeneration in dogs of various breeds and ages. An increase in the extent of IVD degeneration was positively correlated with increases in age and with chondrodystrophic-type dogs.

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