Chiari-like malformation (CM) and syringomyelia (SM)(CM/SM)
Also known as: Chiari-like Malformation · Syringomyelia · Occipital Hypoplasia · Caudal Occipital Malformation Syndrome · COMS · …
Overview
What it is
Chiari-like malformation is a structural neurological condition where the back of the skull is too small for the brain, forcing the lower part of the brain into the spinal canal. This displacement blocks the normal flow of cerebrospinal fluid, the protective liquid surrounding the brain and spine. Over time, the blocked fluid builds up and forms painful, fluid-filled cavities called syrinxes within the spinal cord, a secondary condition known as syringomyelia.
How it presents
Symptoms typically appear between 6 months and 4 years of age. Owners may notice extreme sensitivity to touch around the neck and head, whimpering, and a characteristic compulsive scratching at the neck area without making skin contact, often called 'air guitar' scratching.
Treatment
While the condition is incurable, it can be managed with lifelong pain medication or a complex surgical procedure to decompress the skull. Treatment costs typically range from 3,000 to 12,000 EUR depending on whether surgery or long-term medical management is chosen.
How it's tested
Hüftgelenksdysplasie-Auswertung (HD-Röntgen) nach FCI(HD-FCI)
Primary testRadiographRöntgenaufnahme der Hüftgelenke unter Sedation, ausgewertet nach FCI-Standard (A-E). Standardpflicht bei den meisten VDH-Zuchtvereinen.
Issuing body: FCI
Result scheme: HD-FCI
Magnetresonanztomographie (MRT) für CM/SM(MRT (CM/SM))
Primary testClinical examDie Magnetresonanztomographie (MRT) des Gehirns und der Halswirbelsäule ist der Goldstandard zur Diagnose von Chiari-like Malformation und Syringomyelie beim Hund.
Issuing body: vet
Result scheme: Clear/Carrier/Affected
Affected breeds
9 of 9 breeds
Mandatory testBiewer TerrierMandated by Verband Deutscher Kleinhundezüchter e.V.
Mandatory testBrabant Griffon
Mandatory testPrague RatterMandated by Verband Deutscher Kleinhundezüchter e.V.
RecommendedBelgian Griffon
RecommendedBrussels Griffon
RecommendedCavalier King Charles Spaniel
RecommendedChihuahua
RecommendedPetit Brabançon
OptionalCavapoochon
Treatment cost
Estimated range of typical treatment cost. Actual cost depends on severity, clinic and region.
Frequently asked
What is Chiari-like malformation (CM) and syringomyelia (SM)?
Chiari-like malformation is a structural neurological condition where the back of the skull is too small for the brain, forcing the lower part of the brain into the spinal canal. This displacement blocks the normal flow of cerebrospinal fluid, the protective liquid surrounding the brain and spine. Over time, the blocked fluid builds up and forms painful, fluid-filled cavities called syrinxes within the spinal cord, a secondary condition known as syringomyelia.
How is Chiari-like malformation (CM) and syringomyelia (SM) tested?
Tests currently in our database: Hüftgelenksdysplasie-Auswertung (HD-Röntgen) nach FCI, Magnetresonanztomographie (MRT) für CM/SM.
Which breeds are most affected?
Most commonly affected: Biewer Terrier, Brabant Griffon, Prague Ratter, Belgian Griffon, Brussels Griffon, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Chihuahua, Petit Brabançon.