Schiff–Sherrington phenomenon in a cat with complete spinal cord transection from traumatic dorsocranial luxation of the second lumbar vertebra

Veterinary Medicine and Science, 2023 · DOI: 10.1002/vms3.1308 · Published: September 1, 2023

Simple Explanation

The Schiff–Sherrington phenomenon (SSP) is a neurological condition characterized by specific symptoms following severe spinal cord injuries. This report describes a case of SSP in a cat after a traumatic accident. SSP typically involves rigid extension of the forelimbs, hyperextension of the neck, and paralysis of the hindlimbs. The cat in this report exhibited these signs shortly after being hit by a vehicle. This case is notable because SSP is rarely observed in cats outside of experimental settings. The report helps to broaden the understanding of neurological conditions in feline patients.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

One stray female domestic shorthair cat

Evidence Level

Case Report

Key Findings

1
The cat exhibited symmetrical forelimb extensor rigidity, neck hyperextension, and hindlimb paraplegia within 30 minutes of a motor vehicle accident, indicative of SSP.
2
Post-mortem examination revealed complete transection of the spinal cord due to traumatic dorsocranial luxation of the second lumbar vertebra.
3
Other potential causes, such as decerebrate or decerebellate rigidity, were ruled out through neurological examination and post-mortem findings.

Research Summary

This case report details an occurrence of Schiff–Sherrington phenomenon (SSP) in a cat following a motor vehicle accident that resulted in complete spinal cord transection. The cat presented with typical SSP signs: forelimb extensor rigidity, neck hyperextension, and hindlimb paraplegia. Diagnostic imaging and post-mortem examination confirmed the spinal cord injury and ruled out other neurological conditions. This is a rare naturally occurring case of SSP in a cat, adding to the limited existing literature on feline spinal cord injuries and neurological presentations.

Practical Implications

Diagnostic Awareness

Veterinarians should consider SSP in cats presenting with acute hindlimb paralysis and forelimb rigidity, even though it is rare.

Comparative Neurology

Further research is needed to understand why SSP is less common in cats compared to dogs, potentially involving differences in neural pathways.

Treatment strategies

Prompt diagnosis and supportive care are crucial in managing spinal cord injuries and associated neurological phenomena like SSP.

Study Limitations

1
Single case report limits generalizability.
2
Post-mortem examination limited by freeze-thaw artifacts.
3
Lack of neurophysiological data in cats compared to dogs hinders understanding of species-specific differences in SSP.

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