Neurogenic thoracic outlet syndrome secondary to an unilateral cervical rib in a poodle mix.

Consider cervical ribs in dogs with refractory thoracic limb lameness and neck pain.

This case report describes a 2-year-old spayed female poodle mix presenting with persistent intermittent right thoracic limb lameness and pain unresponsive to oral analgesics and anti-inflammatory medications. Physical examination localized discomfort to the right shoulder and cervical region. Standard orthopedic radiographs of the right shoulder were unremarkable, prompting advanced imaging. Magnetic resonance imaging of the right brachial plexus identified an anomalous bone structure at the thoracic inlet, confirmed by cervical radiographs. Surgical exploration revealed a vestigial rib extending from the right first rib that was compressing adjacent axillary nerves. The rib was successfully removed via partial costectomy. This case represents a rare documentation of neurogenic thoracic outlet syndrome secondary to a cervical rib in canine patients. The authors emphasize that while uncommon, this condition should be included in the differential diagnosis for dogs presenting with concurrent neck pain and refractory thoracic limb lameness, particularly when conventional orthopedic investigations prove unrevealing.

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