Fibrocartilaginous Embolism (FCE)(FCE)
Also known as: Fibrocartilaginous Embolism · FCEM · Fibrokartilaginöse Embolie · Rückenmarksinfarkt · Fibrocartilaginous embolic myelopathy · …
Overview
What it is
Fibrocartilaginous embolic myelopathy (FCE) is a sudden blockage of blood flow to the spinal cord. It occurs when a tiny piece of cartilage from an intervertebral disc enters the bloodstream and clogs a spinal blood vessel. This deprives the surrounding nerve tissue of oxygen, leading to rapid tissue damage.
How it presents
Owners will typically notice a sudden, painless weakness or paralysis in one or more legs, often occurring during or right after vigorous exercise. This condition most commonly affects young to middle-aged dogs, particularly medium to large breeds.
Treatment
While there is no surgical cure, the condition is treatable with immediate supportive care and intensive physiotherapy to help the dog regain mobility. Treatment is typically a one-time rehabilitative effort rather than a lifelong progressive therapy, with costs ranging from 1,500 to 5,000 EUR for diagnostics like an MRI and rehabilitation.
How it's tested
Hüftgelenksdysplasie-Auswertung (HD-Röntgen) nach FCI(HD-FCI)
Primary testRadiographRöntgenaufnahme der Hüftgelenke unter Sedation, ausgewertet nach FCI-Standard (A-E). Standardpflicht bei den meisten VDH-Zuchtvereinen.
Issuing body: FCI
Result scheme: HD-FCI
Affected breeds
Treatment cost
Estimated range of typical treatment cost. Actual cost depends on severity, clinic and region.
Frequently asked
What is Fibrocartilaginous Embolism (FCE)?
Fibrocartilaginous embolic myelopathy (FCE) is a sudden blockage of blood flow to the spinal cord. It occurs when a tiny piece of cartilage from an intervertebral disc enters the bloodstream and clogs a spinal blood vessel. This deprives the surrounding nerve tissue of oxygen, leading to rapid tissue damage.
How is Fibrocartilaginous Embolism (FCE) tested?
Tests currently in our database: Hüftgelenksdysplasie-Auswertung (HD-Röntgen) nach FCI.
Which breeds are most affected?
This condition isn't tied to a specific breed in our database.