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The next time you are presented with a scratching Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, as well as checking it for fleas and reaching for the auroscope, you might just need to refer it for an MRI scan. That was the message from neurology specialist Geoff Skerritt at North Western Laboratories latest bimonthly Clin Path Club meeting at Myerscough College. He was describing Arnold-Chiari Syndrome, a congenital condition that was first properly recognised in Cavaliers with the advent of Veterinary MRI scanning in the late 1990's. With over 150 cases documented in the last 4 years Mr Skerritt warned that it is a disease which may well have a high incidence in the breed. 

The condition arises from occipital dysplasia - a congenital malformation in the shape of the foramen magnum - that leads to partial herniation of the Cerebellum and a subsequent rise in CSF pressure. The condition has a gradual onset and dogs often present with symptoms of frantic scratching at their ears, head and shoulders. They may also exhibit episodes of collapse which, Mr Skerritt explained, is a consequence of the high CSF pressure being further increased by barking or excitement. As the condition progresses dogs may develop thoracic limb proprioceptive deficits and, in advanced cases, pelvic limb ataxia. 

Arnold-Chiari syndrome can only be diagnosed on MRI scan and Mr Skerritt demonstrated a range of scan findings from Cerebellar herniation and hydrocephalus through to syrinx formation (a CSF-filled cavity) in the spinal cord. Early cases respond well to medical treatment with intermittent diuretics but advanced or progressing cases need surgical intervention. The insertion of a silicon rubber shunt to drain excess fluid from the syrinx back into the subarachnoid space helps to control CSF pressure and brings a rapid resolution of the clinical signs. 

The meeting concluded with short presentations by local practitioner Stuart Ellis case of canine hypocalcaemic cataracts and by North Western Laboratories director Alistair Parker on their recent award of the UKAS ISO17025 accreditation - the first such award in the UK to a private veterinary laboratory. 

The Clin Path Club is free and open to all vets and vet nurses. The next meeting is on Thursday 10th January 2002 when dermatology specialist Sue Patterson will speak on "Making the most of your punch biopsies". For further information and to book a place please telephone Joanne Kenyon on 01253 899215 or visit the Clin Path Club page

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