Changes over time in craniocerebral morphology and syringomyelia in cavalier King Charles spaniels with Chiari-like malformation

Publication date 8th November 2012
Authors Colin J Driver, Luisa De Risio, Sarah Hamilton, Clare Rusbridge, Ruth Dennis, Imelda M McGonnell, Holger A Volk

Objective

i) determine if syringomyelia progresses with time ii) determine if features of craniocrebral morphology previously associated with CM are progressive

Results

The maximal syrinx width, height of the foramen magnum, length of cerebellar herniation and caudal cranial fossa volume increased over time. Ventricular and caudal fossa parenchymal volumes were not significantly different between scans.

Conclusion

The results of this study suggest that syringomyelia progresses with time. Increased caudal cranial fossa volume may be associated with active resorption of the supraoccipital bone, which has previously been found in histology specimens from adult CKCS. We hypothesise that active resorption of the supraoccipital bone occurs due to pressure from the cerebellum. These findings have important implications for our understanding of the pathogenesis and variable natural clinical progression of CM and syringomyelia in CKCS.