Syringomyelia/Chiari malformation

Question 1

Chiari malformation - prevalence

Answer 1

• very common (almost ubiquitous) finding in Cavalier King Charles Spaniels

Question 2

What is Chiari malformation?

Answer 2

• a mismatch in size of the cerebellum and the bony cavity within which it sits
• this result in potential cerebellar herniation through the foramen magnum with compression of the adjacent brain stem

Question 3

Chiari malformation - correlation between CS & imaging changes

Answer 3

• not all cases with imaging changes show CS
• the severity of CS doesn’t correlate with the degree of CS

Question 4

Syringomyelia - what is it? what is it also known as?

Answer 4

• sometimes termed: syringohydromyelia
• is secondary dilation of the central canal of the spinal cord

Question 5

CS of CM/SM

Answer 5

• can be associated with apparent intermittent spontaneous episodes of pain or ‘air scratching’
• scoliosis
• pain
• weakness & postural deficits
• often don’t show CS

Question 6

Tx / medical management

Answer 6

• usually a balance of analgesia (gabapentin) and other drugs which may reduce CSF production (omeprazole, cimetidine (corticosteroids))
• can try acupuncture & hydrotherapy