Expression of adipokines and adipocytokines by epidural adipose tissue in cauda equina syndrome in dogs.

Background: Compression of epidural adipose tissue (EAT) within the scope of cauda equina syndrome (CES) could lead to an enhanced expression of inflammatory mediators, possibly contributing to pain amplification in dogs.

Objectives: To analyze expression of inflammatory adipo(-cyto)kines within the EAT of dogs with CES.

Animals: Client-owned dogs: 15 dogs with CES and 9 dogs euthanized for unrelated medical reasons (controls).