Featured Cavalier is one of our case studies suffering from syringomyelia, randomly linked from a selection. © owner
Feartured Cavalier is Isabelle with her pups

Description

Syringomyelia is a disorder caused by a congenital malformation of the occipital bone of the skull. In essence, the skull is too small for the brain. This causes the higher pressure in the brain, which causes the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) flow to be "backed up" and not flow well. This causes hydrocephalus which is enlargement and dilation of the ventricles of the brain. It also causes the cerebellum to be pushed out the foramen magnum (the hole in the skull through which the spinal cord comes off the brain) which is referred to as herniation of the cerebellum. Eventually, the pressure buildup causes fluid filled pockets called syrinxes to form within the spinal cord. This damages the nerves of the spinal cord which causes the symptoms.

Symptoms

Scratching at the neck/shoulders/ears particularly when excited e.g. on the lead {contact is not usually made with the skin} NB: it's now thought that less than 50% of affected dogs do scratch;neck pain; hypersensitivity to grooming, being touched etc; head tilt and head turn; scoliosis; weakness and in-coordination of the limbs; seizures; changes in peripheral vision and facial palsy.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis can be strongly suspected on a clinical basis, meaning based on the presence of the typical symptoms. Definitive diagnosis is based on MRI.

Affected Breeds

To date, dogs of the following breeds have been diagnosed with Syringomyelia: Boston Terrier, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Chihuahua, French Bulldog, Griffon Bruxellois, King Charles Spaniel, Maltese Terrier, Pomeranian, Staffordshire Bull Terrier and Yorkshire Terrier

Breeding Advice

The CKCS Club advise that to reduce the incidence of MVD, the dog or bitch to be used for breeding should be at least 2 ½ years old with a clear heart, with parents with clear heart certificates issued at 5 years of age or older. As symptoms of Syringomyelia usually show by 3 years of age, it is recommended to delay breeding until then, also taking into account the status of relatives. If possible, dogs and bitches should be MRI scanned. This will determine if they have the malformation, BUT even if they are "clear", they can still be carriers. At present this is the best that you can do to ensure healthy pups.

Resources:

Web sites:

Support Group :

Further Information:

UK low cost MRI Scheme:

Similar schemes in the USA - for example:

DNA Collection Program

Our aim is to provide a comprehensive, integrated collection of Cavalier King Charles Spaniel DNA for the benefit of the dogs, owners, breeders and to provide insight into human disease. Surplus blood from a health check would be stored for future studies on the health of the breed. The current studies include syringomyelia (SM), mitral valve disease (MVD) and Epilepsy. Details of the UK collection can be found on the UK Cavalier Club web site.

Nicki Hughes 16th February 2005