Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Life-threatening swallowing trouble in Cavalier King Charles fixed
By Graham, K J et al.·Published in Australian veterinary journal·2012·North Shore Veterinary Specialist Centre, United Kingdom·View original on PubMed →
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Original publication title: Resolution of life-threatening dysphagia caused by caudal occipital malformation syndrome following foramen magnum decompressive surgery.
- Species:
- dog
Plain-English summary
A Cavalier King Charles Spaniel suddenly had severe trouble swallowing, which was life-threatening due to pressure on the brainstem from a condition called caudal occipital malformation syndrome. The dog needed an emergency tracheostomy to help with breathing and was later treated with a surgery to relieve the pressure on the brain. After the surgery, the dog recovered well and no longer had swallowing difficulties. This case highlights the importance of recognizing this condition in breeds like Cavalier King Charles Spaniels when they show signs of dysphagia.
People also search for: Cavalier King Charles Spaniel swallowing problems · dog surgery for dysphagia · caudal occipital malformation syndrome treatment
Abstract
A Cavalier King Charles Spaniel was presented with acute onset, life-threatening dysphagia suspected to be secondary to medulla oblongata compression caused by caudal occipital malformation syndrome. The patient required urgent tracheostomy tube placement to remain stable and was subsequently cured of the presenting neurological deficits by foramen magnum decompressive surgery. Neurogenic dysphagia is a relatively common presenting sign in human Chiari malformation syndromes, but has not been described as a major clinical sign in veterinary patients. Caudal occipital malformation syndrome should be included in the differential diagnosis list for susceptible breeds presenting with dysphagia. Early recognition favours expeditious surgical intervention and a positive outcome in human patients, and this may also be the case in veterinary patients.
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Search related cases →Original publication on PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22827623/