Diagnostic Tails

Focus on real-life stories of pets and animals where imaging saved the day, highlighting the importance of accurate diagnostics. Dive into different technologies like nuclear scintigraphy, MRIs, and CT scans for various animals. Each episode offers insights into the world of veterinary imaging, sharing stories, breakthroughs, and advancements in imaging techniques.

Diagnostic Tails is a business podcast hosted by Unknown Host, with 21 episodes on record and a Required Pod Score of 80. PitchCentric scores this show on Booking Probability, Listen Score, and live audience signals refreshed every 24 hours.

Unknown Host hosts Diagnostic Tails, a business show with 21 episodes published.

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  Episode #20

  Seizing the Diagnosis: CSF Clues and Brain Views with Dr. Rich

  Jul 29, 202646 minS1

  In this episode of Diagnostic Tails , hosts Dr. Amy Armentrout and Dr. Lon Hays are joined by board-certified veterinary neurologist Dr. Jennifer Rich to explore how advanced imaging and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis work together to diagnose complex neurologic diseases. Through real clinical cases, Dr. Rich explains why an MRI often provides only part of the picture and how a spinal tap can uncover inflammation, infection, and other microscopic changes that imaging alone cannot detect. She also shares a remarkable case in which MRI and CSF analysis identified a treatable middle ear infection that had spread to the brain - saving a dog that otherwise may have been mistakenly treated for a brain tumor. The conversation also covers seizure workups, neurologic localization, when advanced imaging is warranted, and how collaboration between general practitioners, neurologists, radiologists, and pet owners leads to better outcomes for patients. This episode is designed for veterinarians who want a practical approach to neurologic diagnostics and for anyone interested in understanding how advanced imaging can change the course of treatment in patients with neurologic disease. You'll Learn: Why MRI and CSF analysis provide complementary diagnostic information When a spinal tap is recommended during a neurologic workup How MRI can distinguish treatable diseases from life-threatening conditions When seizures warrant advanced imaging and referral The basics of neurologic localization in general practice How to differentiate seizures from other neurologic events Why collaboration between veterinarians and specialists improves patient care How concierge neurology is creating new options for veterinarians and pet owners Timestamps (audio): 00:00 - MRI and Spinal Tap Changed Everything 00:18 - Podcast Welcome and Hosts 01:26 - Meet Neurologist Dr. Jennifer Rich 02:28 - Why Add a Spinal Tap 04:30 - Safety and Timing Tips 06:56 - Dry Taps and Technique 08:05 - Case Otogenic Meningitis 12:48 - Treatable Neuro Conditions 14:21 - Seizure Workup Guidelines 19:25 - Consults and VIP Neurology 23:34 - How to Contact Dr Rich 25:15 - Localizing Lesions for Imaging 27:05 - Neurolocalization Basics 30:19 - Reflexes vs Pain Feeling 32:13 - Movement Disorder Not Seizures 35:51 - When Seizures Need ER 37:12 - Clinic Banter Break 38:18 - Raising Service Dog Floyd 42:20 - Teamwork and Burnout 45:12 - Wrap Up and Resources Key Takeaways: MRI and CSF analysis work together to provide a more complete neurologic diagnosis, revealing both structural and cellular disease. Performing a spinal tap during the initial MRI can avoid a second anesthetic event while providing valuable diagnostic information. Advanced imaging can distinguish treatable conditions from diseases that may appear terminal based on clinical signs alone. Careful neurologic localization and a thorough history help determine the most appropriate imaging study and improve diagnostic efficiency. Not every collapse or convulsive episode is a seizure - recognizing movement disorders and other neurologic conditions leads to more appropriate treatment. Early referral and advanced diagnostics can significantly improve outcomes for patients with neurologic disease. Strong collaboration between general practitioners, imaging specialists, neurologists, and pet owners ensures patients receive the most informed care possible. Connect With Dr. Rich: https://www.virtualvetneurology.com/ Animal Imaging Veterinary Radiology Specialists https://animalimaging.net/ (972) 869-2180 info@animalimaging.net Facebook https://www.facebook.com/AnimalImaging/ Linked In https://www.linkedin.com/company/animalimaging Instagram https://www.instagram.com/animalimaging/?hl=en

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  Episode #19

  Shunt Hunters: Nuclear Clues and CT Views

  Jul 1, 202627 minS1

  In this episode of Diagnostic Tails , hosts Dr. Amy Armentrout and Dr. Lon Hays take a closer look at one of the most common congenital vascular abnormalities seen in small animal practice: portosystemic shunts. They discuss what shunts are, why they occur, and how they impact a pet's growth, metabolism, and neurological function. The conversation walks through the diagnostic process, from suspicious bloodwork and bile acid testing to advanced imaging with nuclear scintigraphy and CT angiography. Dr. Hays explains how imaging helps determine not only whether a shunt is present, but also its location and severity — critical information for surgical planning and long-term management. They also cover anesthesia considerations, treatment options, and why many of these patients can go on to live healthy lives when diagnosed and treated appropriately. This episode is designed for veterinarians, veterinary students, and pet owners who want to better understand how advanced imaging helps diagnose and manage these complex but often treatable conditions. You'll Learn: What a portosystemic shunt is and how it affects the body Common breeds and clinical signs associated with congenital shunts How bloodwork and bile acid testing help identify suspect cases The role of nuclear scintigraphy in confirming shunt presence Why CT angiography is often the preferred tool for localization and surgical planning Special anesthesia considerations for shunt patients The differences between medical management and surgical correction How advanced imaging improves diagnostic confidence and treatment outcomes Timestamps: 00:00 - Welcome to Diagnostic Tales 00:32 - Meet the Hosts 00:57 - Episode Focus: Shunts 01:21 - What Is a Shunt? 02:57 - Breeds and Shunt Types 03:42 - Clinical Clues and Labwork 04:18 - Bile Acids Testing 05:27 - Scintigraphy Explained 07:07 - CT Angio for Localization 08:45 - Anesthesia and Breath Holds 11:25 - Surgery vs Medical Management 13:57 - Why CT Beats Ultrasound 14:47 - CT Value and Other Uses 16:22 - Shunt Anesthesia Protocols 19:18 - 3D Recon and 3D Printing Future 20:05 - Rotary Phones and Party Lines 22:40 - Tail End Tip: Hard Conversations 26:04 - Wrap Up and Thanks Key Takeaways: Portosystemic shunts allow blood to bypass the liver, preventing normal detoxification and metabolism Small-breed dogs, particularly Yorkshire Terriers, are commonly affected by congenital shunts Elevated bile acids are often the first clue that a shunt may be present Nuclear scintigraphy can confirm the presence and severity of a shunt, while CT precisely identifies its location Advanced imaging plays a critical role in determining the best treatment approach Surgical correction offers an excellent prognosis for many patients Careful anesthetic management is essential because shunt patients metabolize drugs differently Early diagnosis and intervention can significantly improve quality of life and long-term outcomes Whether you're investigating a poorly growing puppy, unexplained neurologic episodes, or abnormal bile acids, this episode reinforces one core idea: the right imaging study can turn a confusing clinical picture into a clear treatment plan. Animal Imaging Veterinary Radiology Specialists https://animalimaging.net/ (972) 869-2180 info@animalimaging.net Facebook https://www.facebook.com/AnimalImaging/ Linked In https://www.linkedin.com/company/animalimaging Instagram https://www.instagram.com/animalimaging/?hl=en

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  Episode #18

  Scrubs, Skills, and Staying Power

  Jun 3, 202634 minS1

  <p>In this episode of Diagnostic Tails, hosts Dr. Amy Armentrout and Dr. Lon Hays are joined by relief technician Bryce Morgan to discuss the evolving role of veterinary technicians and the importance of building sustainable, supportive veterinary teams.</p><p>Drawing from Bryce’s experience working across multiple practices and states, the conversation explores technician utilization, continuing education, anesthesia training, workplace culture, and the growing demand for relief support in veterinary medicine.</p><p>They also discuss how communication, trust, and professional growth opportunities directly impact patient care, team retention, and long-term success within veterinary practices.</p><p>This ep...

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  Episode #17

  Scope and Tails: Inside Small Animal Endoscopy

  May 13, 202626 minS1

  <p>In this episode of Diagnostic Tails, hosts Dr. Amy Armentrout and Dr. Lon Hays introduce the role of endoscopy in veterinary medicine and how it expands diagnostic and treatment options for referring veterinarians. Joined by technician Mia, they share insights from a recent hands-on training course and what this new capability means for patient care.</p><p>They break down how endoscopy allows for minimally invasive foreign body removal, targeted biopsies, and more efficient diagnostics — often under a single anesthetic event. The conversation also highlights the importance of teamwork between veterinarians and technicians, especially when performing advanced procedures.</p><p>...

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  Episode #16

  Byte-Sized Tails

  Apr 17, 202635 minS1

  <p>In this episode of Diagnostic Tails, hosts Dr. Amy Armentrout and Dr. Lon Hays explore how technology is impacting modern veterinary practice — from cybersecurity and data protection to the growing role of artificial intelligence.</p><p>They break down the real risks practices face today, including ransomware, data loss, and privacy concerns, while also highlighting how AI is already improving efficiency in areas like medical records, communication, and workflow.</p><p>This episode is designed for veterinarians and practice owners who want a clear, practical understanding of how to protect their practice and thoughtfully integrate new technology.</p><p>Yo...

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