Oxytocin Content of the Cerebrospinal Fluid of Dogs and Its Relationship to Pain Induced by Spinal Cord Compression

Objectives —To determine whether oxytocin exists in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of dogs and whether the amount of oxytocin in the CSF of dogs with neck or back pain caused by spinal cord compression is significantly different than that in the CSF of clinically normal dogs. Study Design —Prospective controlled study. Animal Population —A total of 15 purpose‐bred beagles and 17 client‐owned dogs. Methods —CSF was collected by needle puncture of the cerebellar medullary cistern after induction of general anesthesia. Oxytocin levels within the samples were determined through radioimmunoassay. Results —Dogs with spinal cord compression had significantly more oxytocin in their CSF than the clinically normal dogs (13.76 ± 2.0 pg/mL and 3.61 ± 0.63 pg/mL, respectively; P < .0001). Dogs with chronic signs (>7 days) had significantly more oxytocin in their CSF than dogs with acute signs (<7 days) (21.60 ± 0.86 pg/mL and 6.80 ± 0.81 pg/mL, respectively; P < .0001). Both acutely and chronically affected dogs had significantly more oxytocin in their CSF than the controls ( P < .005 and P < .0001 respectively). Conclusions —Dogs with neck and back pain caused by spinal cord compression have significantly more oxytocin in their CSF than clinically normal dogs. Dogs with chronic clinical signs have significantly more oxytocin in their CSF than dogs with acute clinical signs. Clinical Relevance —In humans, intrathecal injection of oxytocin is effective in treating low back pain for up to 5 hours. Intrathecal oxytocin may be a logical choice for perioperative analgesia in dogs undergoing myelography because the intrathecal space is accessed for injection of contrast agent.