A RETROSPECTIVE EVALUATION OF 51 CASES OF PERIPHERAL-NERVE SHEATH TUMORS IN THE DOG

Fifty-one cases of canine peripheral nerve sheath tumors were reviewed . Signalment, presenting clinical signs, duration of clinical signs, p hysical and neurological examination findings, results of diagnostic p rocedures, type of surgery performed, tumor location, relapse-free int ervals and survival times, and causes of death were evaluated Tumors w ere divided into three anatomical groups: tumors involving nerves dist al to the brachial or lumbosacral plexus (Peripheral Group), tumors in volving nerves of the brachial or lumbosacral plexus (Plexus Group), a nd tumors involving the vertebral canal (Root Group). The most common clinical findings were unilateral forelimb lameness and muscle atrophy . The most useful diagnostic tests were myelography and electromyograp hy. Although there was no significant difference, dogs in the Root Gro up tended to have shorter relapse-free intervals and survival times th an dogs in the Plexus Group. The overall prognosis for surgical manage ment of peripheral nerve sheath tumors is guarded to poor.