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modalities will likely enhance our understanding of OAAM and other cervical vertebral pathologies (Sleutjens et al. 2014). While muscular anomalies were only identified post-mortem, advanced imaging will play an important role in determining the role of the neck musculature in future cases of OAAM.
Conclusions
The preceding case report is an extremely helpful addition to the body of scientific literature available on OAAM. This is an unusual presentation of OAAM with respect to both breed and age. The malformations described in this mare do not fit neatly into the four types of OAAM that are presently described. Previous reports of this disease have not described anomalies in the neck musculature either. Many congenital equine diseases seem to follow familial patterns. However, these problems have the potential to affect horses of any breed. In this case, it is possible that the genes responsible for OAAM in Arabians have dispersed into the gene pool of other breeds. The diversity of known OAAM configurations might exist because of the presence or interaction of multiple genes or even the influence of environmental factors. The case presented by Br€
unisholz et al. (2019) expands our understanding
of this disease and will serve as a useful reference for future accounts of OAAM. The incorporation of advanced imaging into this case’s diagnostic work-up interestingly demonstrated the malformation and its effect on the spinal cord antemortem and, as such, aided in the decision-making process of case management. Advanced diagnostic imaging, such as computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging, should be used whenever possible if OAAMis suspected. This case report is also a helpful reminder of the value of
completing a thorough and objective evaluation. As stated already, this case is an example of an unusual presentation of an uncommon disease. This horse presented for suspected musculoskeletal disease; by approaching the horse’s problems logically and systematically, the clinicians achieved a tricky, but accurate, diagnosis.
Author’s declaration of interests No conflicts of interest have been declared.
Ethical animal research
No animals were used in preparation of content of this manuscript.
Source of funding None.
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