Syringomyelia SM

In today's article, we'll discuss a relatively new disease in veterinary medicine, yet one that's incredibly important. It's syringomyelia ( MS ), also known as spinal cord hydrops . This condition involves the appearance of cavities or spaces filled with cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in the neural tissue that makes up the spinal cord. This most commonly affects the cervical spinal cord, located directly adjacent to the brain.

The most common symptom

One of the most common symptoms of MS in dogs is a scratching-like movement of the limbs performed in the air near the neck. This is why the condition is sometimes called " neck scratcher's disease ." The most common group of MS patients are Cavalier King Charles Spaniels , whose posterior half of the skull, the posterior fossa, is usually too small to accommodate the cerebellum without obstruction.

What breeds are most commonly affected by SM?

MS can be observed in miniature dog breeds such as Pomeranians, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Griffons, Chihuahuas, French Bulldogs, Bichons, Bull Terriers, Maltese, Miniature Dachshunds, Papillons, Toy Poodles and Miniature Poodles.

It's important to remember that not only the dog breeds mentioned above are at risk of developing syringohydromyelia. Some experts believe that any dog ​​may be at risk, as its causes are not fully understood and may be genetic or stem from other factors, such as trauma or infection.

Causes

MS can be caused by problems with the cerebellum or its swelling. Pressure on the hindbrain structures can cause cerebellar herniation, leading to neurological symptoms . Cerebellar herniation also causes problems with cerebrospinal fluid flow, which can lead to cavities in the spinal cord parenchyma or dilation of the central canal of the spinal cord.

MS is a rare disease in most breeds, but for unknown reasons, it is common among Cavalier King Charles Spaniels. Studies have estimated that up to 95% of this breed may suffer from MS . One of the two primary causes of MS in this breed is the presence of Arnold-Chiari malformation. You can read about this malformation in our previous articles.

It's important to remember that not all patients develop the disease into a symptomatic form. Arnold-Chiari malformation refers to conditions such as hypoplasia or dysplasia . It's also worth noting that little is known about MS , and this disease requires further research and improved diagnosis.

Symptoms

Therefore, if your dog exhibits any symptoms, such as difficulty moving, limb tremors, headaches, or difficulty urinating or defecating, a thorough diagnosis is essential. Consult your veterinarian and utilize imaging tests such as a computed tomography (CT) scan or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

If a diagnosis of syringohydromyelia is confirmed, various treatment options are available, including surgery, pharmacology, behavioral therapy, and physical therapy. However, early diagnosis is crucial. The earlier the disease is detected, the greater the chances of improving the dog's quality of life and implementing effective therapy.

Conclusions

The conclusion is clear: diagnosing syringohydromyelia remains a significant challenge for veterinarians and requires further research. However, it's important to remember that responsibility for the health and well-being of our pets rests in our own hands, so it's important to regularly monitor our dogs' behavior and not ignore any alarming symptoms.

Inheritance

It's worth noting that syringohydromyelia is a complex hereditary condition, and its inheritance is not fully understood. Research indicates that the disease is approximately 70-80% genetically determined, with the remaining 20-30% attributed to environmental factors. Therefore, even if a breeder adheres to the breeding program, there is no guarantee that their animals will not develop syringohydromyelia.

In the case of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel breed, it's also worth noting that this disease becomes more serious with each generation, and the first symptoms appear earlier in the animals. Therefore, adhering to the breeding program and avoiding crossbreeding with the gene responsible for the disease is crucial to reduce the risk of developing full-blown syringohydromyelia in puppies.