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Chiari-Like Malformation in Dogs

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The Chiari Malformations

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Abstract

The Chiari I malformation in humans and Chiari-like malformation in dogs (CLM) is a condition in which the cerebellum descends out of the foramen magnum affecting normal cerebral spinal fluid (CSF) flow. It is considered to be a developmental abnormality and is commonly confused with many other conditions. Chiari-like malformation in dogs affected approximately 85 % of Cavalier King Charles Spaniels evaluated, as reported in the most recent studies. The specific cause has not been determined; however, because of an abnormal shape or reduced skull size in the caudal occipital region, part of the cerebellum is forced through the foramen magnum, altering CSF flow patterns. Changes in CSF dynamics result in an abnormal accumulation of fluid within the substance of the spinal cord called a “syrinx.” The diagnosis of CLM in dogs and Chiari type I in humans can only be confirmed by MRI which is essential for determining the cause of syringomyelia. Current concepts in the diagnosis and treatment of Chiari-like malformation in dogs will be discussed.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Surgery, Long Island Veterinary Specialists, 163 South Service Rd., Plainview, NY, 11803, USA

    Dominic J. Marino DVM, Dip. ACVS, Dip. ACCT, CCRP

  2. Department of Neurology/Neurosurgery, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, 14853, USA

    Curtis W. Dewey DVM, MS, Dip., ACVS, ACVIM (neurology)

Authors
  1. Dominic J. Marino DVM, Dip. ACVS, Dip. ACCT, CCRP
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  2. Curtis W. Dewey DVM, MS, Dip., ACVS, ACVIM (neurology)
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Correspondence to Dominic J. Marino DVM, Dip. ACVS, Dip. ACCT, CCRP .

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Editors and Affiliations

  1. Children's Hospital of Alabama, 7th Ave S 1600, Birmingham, 35233-1711, Alabama, USA

    R. Shane Tubbs

  2. The Children's Hospital of Alabama, 7th Ave S 1600, Birmingham, 35233-1711, Alabama, USA

    W. Jerry Oakes

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Marino, D.J., Dewey, C.W. (2013). Chiari-Like Malformation in Dogs. In: Tubbs, R., Oakes, W. (eds) The Chiari Malformations. Springer, New York, NY. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4614-6369-6_11

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4614-6369-6_11

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