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Hydrocephalus
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Hydrocephalus
Race Foster, DVM
Marty Smith, DVM
Drs. Foster & Smith, Inc.
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Hydrocephalus can occur as a congenital condition
as well as a result of trauma or a
brain tumor, for instance. Hydrocephalus is a condition in which excessive
fluid is
found within and around the brain. The body may form too much fluid
or, as occurs
in most cases, the fluid that is produced cannot drain from the central
nervous
system as it normally does. Within the brain are fluid-filled spaces
called ventricles.
In a hydrocephalic dog, the ventricles fill with too much fluid. They
become swollen,
and the increased pressure damages and/or prevents development of
brain tissue.
Toy breeds such as Maltese, Yorkshire Terriers, Pomeranians and Chihuahuas
are
commonly affected. Hydrocephalus occurs in other breeds as well.
What are the symptoms?
Typically, hydrocephalus is first diagnosed when the dog is young,
usually less than
four months of age. The head takes on a dome-shaped appearance and
the skull
bones at the top of the head fail to close. A soft spot may be noticed
on the top of
the head. This is termed an 'open fontanel.' The affected dog may
be blind, have
seizures or have an altered gait. Hydrocephalic dogs are commonly
mentally dull
and have a limited ability to learn. Different levels of severity
exist.
What are the risks?
The hydrocephalic dog typically has a very limited life span. Severity
differs, but few
dogs with this condition live to be over two years of age.
What is the management?
Most cases go untreated. Veterinary neurologists can be consulted
and occasionally
the excess fluid can be drained. Sometimes lifelong treatment with
prednisone and
Lasix is tried. With surgery or medical treatment, however, the dog
will rarely live a
normal life. Treatment is often unsuccessful and expensive. Hydrocephalus
is a
congenital disease and dogs with this condition should be removed
from any
breeding program.
© 2004 Drs. Foster & Smith, Inc.
Reprinted as a courtesy and with permission from PetEducation.com
(http://www.PetEducation.com)
On-line store at http://www.DrsFosterSmith.com
Free pet supply catalog: 1-800-323-4208
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