Computed Tomographic Imaging of Bovine Hydrocephalus: A Descriptive Study

Abstract

16 slice CT study findings of calf hydrocephalus were reported. Five-day old female Jersey crossbred calf was presented for referral opinion with the history of head pressing and inability to stand for the past 2 days. Neurological examination revealed quadriparesis and poor mental status; pupillary light reflex and menace reflexes were normal. Quadriparesis and poor mental health were found during a neurological evaluation; however the pupillary light reflex and menace reflex both were normal. Routine blood test and radiograph showed normal results. Meningitis was the clinical diagnosis. Therefore, a skull Computed Tomographic (CT) investigation was intended to identify the lesion. Prior to CT procedure, the animal put into Ketamine stun while fasting. CT images were obtained using a Toshiba 16 slice CT scanner with a slice thickness of 1mm and settings of 120 kV and 160 mAs.  The CT images were reconstructed and interpreted, and it was discovered that the lateral ventricular area, height, and volume were all abnormal. These symptoms pointed to bilateral ventriculomegaly and hydrocephalus. In bovines, neurological diagnosis is always difficult; nevertheless this case study demonstrates how employing CT made neurological diagnosis simpler.