Radiological Diagnosis of Thoracolumbar Disc Disease in Dachshunds: A Case Study from Akwa Ibom State

Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) of the thoracolumbar region is a frequently encountered neurological condition in chondrodystrophic dog breeds, particularly Dachshunds. This study presents a descriptive case series of thoracolumbar IVDD diagnosed radiologically in Dachshunds examined at a veterinary clinic in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, within Nigeria's South South geopolitical zone, over an 18-month period from January 2023 to June 2024. Fourteen Dachshunds presenting with acute or chronic signs of thoracolumbar pain and neurological deficits were enrolled. Spinal radiographic assessment using ventrodorsal and lateral projections was performed in all cases. Additional myelographic contrast studies were performed in seven cases to confirm compression site and severity. IVDD was confirmed in all fourteen patients, with T11-T13 and L1-L3 being the most frequently affected intervertebral spaces. Mineralized disc material was radiographically visible in 11 of 14 cases. Neurological grading correlated with radiographic severity in 79% of cases. Conservative management with cage rest and methylprednisolone therapy was effective in grade I and II cases, while surgical referral was recommended for grades III to V. The study highlights the diagnostic limitations of plain radiography in detecting soft disc herniations and advocates for the integration of myelography and ultimately MRI capabilities into veterinary neurological services in South South Nigeria. Keywords: intervertebral disc disease, Dachshund, thoracolumbar radiography, Akwa Ibom, spinal surgery.