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Syringohydromyelia in Cavalier King Charles spaniels
C Rusbridge1, J E MacSweeny, J V Davies
1Stone Lion Veterinary Center, London, England.
Journal of the American Animal Hospital Association
|February 10, 2000
Summary
Syringohydromyelia in Cavalier King Charles spaniels is linked to foramen magnum overcrowding and occipital bone malformations. Treatment with anti-inflammatory drugs showed partial improvement in clinical signs like scratching and pain.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Neurology
- Comparative Pathology
Background:
- Syringohydromyelia is a condition characterized by fluid-filled cavities within the spinal cord.
- Foramen magnum overcrowding can lead to neurological deficits in dogs.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe syringohydromyelia secondary to foramen magnum overcrowding in Cavalier King Charles spaniels.
- To correlate clinical signs with magnetic resonance imaging findings.
- To evaluate treatment outcomes.
Main Methods:
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was used to diagnose syringohydromyelia in seven Cavalier King Charles spaniels.
- Clinical signs were documented and analyzed.
- Dogs were treated with corticosteroids or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.
Main Results:
- All seven dogs presented with clinical signs consistent with central spinal cord lesions.
- Common signs included persistent scratching, neck/limb pain, and lower motor neuron deficits.
- MRI revealed syringohydromyelia secondary to foramen magnum overcrowding, likely due to occipital bone malformation and cerebellar herniation.
Conclusions:
- Foramen magnum overcrowding and associated occipital bone malformations are implicated in the pathogenesis of syringohydromyelia in this breed.
- While anti-inflammatory treatment offered partial relief, complete resolution of clinical signs was not achieved.
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