A case of a spinal epidural empyema in a six-week old alpaca cria

Abstract

Bandito, a six week old male alpaca cria, was presented to the Large Animal Hospital for an acute onset of progressive hind limb paresis. Imaging studies revealed a spinal epidural empyema, vertebral physitis, and paravertebral abscessation. Treatment included a right dorsal hemilaminectomy with spinal cord decompression, long term antibiotics, anti-inflammatories, and physical therapy. Post-operatively, motor function was regained although a severe kyphosis at L5-L6 developed.