necropsy_frieda

Interpretation of necropsy report:

The major finding on necropsy is that of extensive intervertebral disc disease and spondylosis involving most of the thoracic and lumbar spine.  This is most likely the cause of the moderately reduced muscling in the hind limbs.  There is also evidence of severe chronic megacolon and mega ileum, which could be a result of compression of the spinal cord due to effects of intervertebral disc disease, but cannot be definitively identified as the cause of the megacolon.  There is no specific cause of the megacolon evident on the exam.

There is a benign cancer of the skin (cutaneous cavernous hemangioma) on the left rear foot, but no malignant processes noted.

In addition to the chronic megacolon and mega ileum, there was one chronic small intestinal (duodenal) ulcer.  There was generalized fibrosis of the colon, likely a secondary change from the megacolon condition.

The diagnosis of nodular cortical hyperplasia of the left adrenal gland is an incidental age-related finding, as are the findings of serosal uterine cysts, cutaneous hemangioma, and most of the microscopic findings included in the report. 

There is no mention in the report of any arthritis in joints other than that noted in the spine.  There is no evidence of primary disease in the cardiovascular system, liver or pancreas, endocrine system, immune system, eyes or neurological system.