An update on spinal arachnoid diverticula in dogs and cats

Spinal arachnoid diverticula (SAD) are an uncommon neurological condition in dogs and rare in cats. SAD is characterized by a focal subarachnoid dilation that causes compression on the spinal cord. The clinical presentation in dogs and cats is similar, with non-painful, generally progressive paresis and proprioceptive ataxia. New magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) sequences not only facilitate the diagnosis but also provide further details about the spinal cord parenchyma. Surgical treatment seems to be the most successful treatment option in the literature for both species. Yet, there are scarce reports of medical treatment attempted in dogs and none in cats. In this review, it is aimed to provide an update on feline and canine SAD with emphasis on pathophysiology, clinical presentation, diagnostic imaging findings, available treatment options and associated outcome. Lastly, it is also aimed to provide a framework for new research, identifying relevant areas for further investigation.