Lissencephaly in an adult Australian Kelpie

A 6-year-old neutered male Australian Kelpie presented with a 2-year history of seizures. Neurological examination was consistent with a generalised prosencephalic lesion. Serum biochemical testing was performed in addition to magnetic resonance imaging of the brain and cerebrospinal fluid analysis. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed a reduction in the number of sulci and gyri in addition to cortical thickening, resulting in a diagnosis of lissencephaly. The dog was treated with anticonvulsants and follow-up information obtained from the referring veterinarian 11 months after diagnosis indicated that the dog had good seizure control.

This is the first report of lissencephaly in the Australian Kelpie and would suggest that some dogs with the condition can be managed with long-term anticonvulsant medication.