Chiari-Like Malformation and Syringomyelia in a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Abstract

Introduction: Bobby, a 51/2-year-old neutered male Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, weighing 11.11 kg with an up-to-date vaccination and deworming status was referred and presented to the veterinary referral hospital with a chronic history of air licking, chasing shadows, auditory and neurologic deficits.

Objective: This paper aims to highlight the clinical presentation, diagnosis and management of Chiari-like syndrome and syringomyelia.

Methods: Neurological examination, revealed the presence of neck pain on full lateroflexion, vocalisation and hyperesthesia. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain and spinal cord, as well as cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) tap, were done. Based on the MRI images, Chiari-like malformation (CLM) and early syringomyelia at the level of C2 and C3 were diagnosed.

Findings and management: There were no evidence of lesions causing compression of the spinal cord on the sagittal images. A dry tap was obtained from cisternal CSF tap. Gabapentin and Omeprazole prescribed and significant improvements in clinical signs were observed within two weeks of treatment. Vocalisation and hindlimb ataxia were absent. While phantom scratching had reduced in frequency. Bobby is currently on a long term gabapentin and omeprazole medication and recuperating well.

Conclusion: The diagnosis of CLM is important in brachycephalic dogs that show neurologic signs as it is a progressive neurological disease especially when associated with syringomyelia. Early detection and medical management of CLM allows the slowing of progression or deterioration of syringomyelia that can lead to paralysis and eventually death.