Clinical Application of Diagnostic Imaging of Chiari-Like Malformation and Syringomyelia

Chiari-like malformation (CM) and syringomyelia (SM) is a frequent diagnosis in predisposed brachycephalic toy breeds since increased availability of MRI. However, the relevance of that MRI diagnosis has been questioned as CM, defined as identification of a cerebellar herniation, is ubiquitous in some breeds and SM can be asymptomatic. This article reviews the current knowledge of neuroanatomical changes in symptomatic CM and SM and diagnostic imaging modalities used for the clinical diagnosis of CM-pain or myelopathy related to SM. Although often compared to Chiari type I malformation in humans, canine CM-pain and SM is more comparable to complex craniosynostosis syndromes (i.e., premature fusion of multiple skull sutures) characterized by a short skull (cranial) base, rostrotentorial crowding with rostral forebrain flattening, small, and ventrally orientated olfactory bulbs, displacement of the neural tissue to give increased height of the cranium and further reduction of the functional caudotentorial space with hindbrain herniation. MRI may further reveal changes suggesting raised intracranial pressure such as loss of sulci definition in conjunction with ventriculomegaly. In addition to these brachycephalic changes, dogs with SM are more likely to have craniocervical junction abnormalities including rostral displacement of the axis and atlas with increased odontoid angulation causing craniospinal junction deformation and medulla oblongata elevation. Symptomatic SM is diagnosed on the basis of signs of myelopathy and presence of a large syrinx that is consistent with the neuro-localization. The imaging protocol should establish the longitudinal and transverse extent of the spinal cord involvement by the syrinx. Phantom scratching and cervicotorticollis are associated with large mid-cervical syringes that extend to the superficial dorsal horn. If the cause of CSF channel disruption and syringomyelia is not revealed by anatomical MRI then other imaging modalities may be appropriate with radiography or CT for any associated vertebral abnormalities.

Introduction

Chiari-like malformation (CM) is a complex skull and craniocervical junction disorder associated with brachycephaly with skull base shortening, low volume caudal fossa and rostrotentorial, caudotentorial and craniospinal crowding. For a detailed written and visual description of the morphogenesis see the review by Knowler et al. (1). The condition has been marred in controversy since the first description, not least by what to call it (2). The eponymic term refers to the first detailed pathological description by Hans Chiari of an analogous human condition (3). The veterinary label, chosen in a round table discussion (2, 4) was considered less restrictive than an anatomical description (for example hindbrain herniation or occipital hypoplasia), which may have proved simplistic or inaccurate in the future. This prediction was true, and over the last two decades our understanding of the complex morphology has deepened and most realize that this condition is more than a cerebellar foramen magnum herniation. As a MRI description, CM should be considered an umbrella term, as the bony and parenchymal changes between and within individuals in each breed are different but have a common tendency toward pain associated with CM and the development of syringomyelia (SM). As such, and with the common feature of being associated with brachycephaly, it was recently proposed that the disorder might be better described as a brachycephalic obstructive cerebrospinal (CSF) channel syndrome (BOCCS) with similarities to brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS) (1).

The analogous disease in humans was considered to be Chiari type I malformation, defined traditionally as a MRI finding of caudal displacement of the cerebellar tonsils inferior to the plane of the foramen magnum by at least 3 mm. However, like the canine disease, this description is problematic especially as there can be symptomatic disease and SM with smaller herniation (termed Chiari type 0). In an attempt to categorize the variations in humans there are now seven recognized types: 0, 1, 1.5, 2, 3, 3.5, and 4 (3–6). However, the distinction between types is challenging especially when the etiology is multifactorial and increasingly there is a call in human medicine that cerebellar tonsil herniation/Chiari malformation should be considered a radiographic sign and the focus of the diagnostic investigation should be to determine the cause of that herniation for example shallow posterior fossa (7), craniosynostosis (8), inherited disorders of connective tissue (9), spinal cord tethering (10), intracranial hypertension (11), or intracranial hypotension (12).

CM is one of the most common causes of SM in the dog which is characterized by the development of cavities in the spinal cord containing a fluid similar to CSF (13, 14) however SM can develop after any obstruction to CSF channels and has been reported in a variety of disorders ranging from acquired cerebellar herniation secondary to intracranial masses (15–18) to spinal arachnoid diverticulum (19, 20) and spinal cord tethering (21). The terminology of SM is equally confused, with some veterinary papers referring to syringohydromyelia or hydrosyringomyelia. These historical terms have been mostly discarded in human medicine (4). Equally confusing is if and when the term hydromyelia is applied. The term syringomyelia was first used by Charles-Prosper Ollivier d'Angers (1796–1845) deriving the term from the Greek “syringe” meaning tube or pipe, and “myelio” referring to the spinal marrow (22, 23). The term hydroamyelus was coined by Schüppel in 1865 to describe a dilatation of the central canal (24). In 1875, and after describing spinal cord cavities apparently separate from the central canal and surrounded by gliosis, Simon proposed that hydromyelia be used to describe central canal dilation and distension and that the term syringomyelia be reserved to describe cavities and cystic conditions independent of the central canal (25, 26). In 1876, Leyden concluded that hydromyelia and SM were identical conditions (26, 27) but Kahler and Pick made the observation that a hydromyelia is lined by ependyma whereas glial cells form the wall of SM cavities and recommended keeping a distinction between hydromyelia and SM (26, 28). However, it is difficult to distinguish between hydromyelia and SM, by radiological, clinical, or pathological means and consequently some used the combined terms syringohydromyelia or hydrosyringomyelia, to describe a cavity which is partially lined by ependymal but which also extends into the spinal cord substance (29). Thus, some clinicians argue that the term syringomyelia should only apply to a glia lined cavity separate from the central canal, that hydromyelia be reserved for central canal dilation, still lined by ependyma and that the term syringohydromyelia is correct for a cavity involving a dilated central canal that is partially lined by ependyma. However, post mortem and experimental studies have suggested that the ependyma is disrupted following only minor central canal dilatation and that all syringomyelic cavities are connected to the central canal at some level of the spinal cord (4, 30–32) therefore nowadays the simpler and original term syringomyelia is used by the majority (4). In veterinary medicine a central canal dilatation is defined as a dilatation and distension of the spinal cord with a transverse diameter <2 mm (33).

Identifying a cerebellar herniation and SM on MRI is relatively straightforward and has been defined by the British Veterinary Association and UK Kennel Club with a Health Scheme for breeding dogs based on a grading system for CM, SM, and the maximum transverse diameter of the syrinx if present (33). However, the grading for CM is simplistic and only based on the degree of cerebellar herniation. The diagnosis of symptomatic CM and SM can be challenging in some breeds such as the Cavalier King Charles spaniel (CKCS) because CM, as defined by the BVA/KC Health Scheme is ubiquitous, and SM is prevalent but may be asymptomatic (34, 35). Increasingly it has become apparent that CM alone, like the analogous human condition, can have significant impact on welfare and quality of life (36, 37). Previously we used a MRI morphometric mapping approach to define CM pain and symptomatic SM in the CKCS, Griffon Bruxellois, Chihuahua, and Affenpincher (38–40) and these traits were linked to genomic regions (41, 42). However, translating this research technique to the clinic is challenging as it involves time consuming measurements and there is no objective measure of disease presence/ risk to offspring. Consequently development of a machine learning approach and computer analysis is recommended but development of this will take considerable resources (43, 44). This article serves to review the current knowledge base and provide guidelines to the clinician for the diagnostic imaging of CM-pain and symptomatic SM.

Current Understanding of the Morphological Changes in Canine CM and SM

Many studies, mostly in the CKCS or Griffon Bruxellois, have assessed features of skull and cervical vertebral morphology in relationship to the presence or absence of SM. Not all studies had good control groups, especially the earlier ones. As SM occurs secondary to CM and is more likely in older dogs (34, 35, 45, 46), it is important that the SM-clear cohort consists of dogs MRI scanned when older and typically aged 4 years or more. Equally it is important to accurately phenotype symptomatic dogs which can be challenging as the most common clinical sign is pain which is subjective and in the dog overly reliant on owner reporting (39, 47, 48).

Table 1 summarizes the existing knowledge in relationship to the skull, Table 2 the craniocervical junction and cervical changes, Table 3 the neuro-parenchymal changes and Table 4 the syrinx changes.

TABLE 1

Table 1. Pathogenesis of Chiari-like malformation and syringomyelia: summary of the existing knowledge base—skull changes.

TABLE 2

Table 2. Pathogenesis of Chiari-like malformation and syringomyelia: summary of the existing knowledge base—craniocervical junction and cervical changes.

TABLE 3

Table 3. Pathogenesis of Chiari-like malformation and syringomyelia: summary of the existing knowledge base—neuroparenchymal changes.

TABLE 4

Table 4. Pathogenesis of Chiari-like malformation and syringomyelia: summary of the existing knowledge base—syrinx features.

Summary of Existing Knowledge of the Morphological Changes in Canine CM and SM

The key feature of canine CM is craniosynostosis of particularly the spheno-occipital synchondrosis. However, premature closure of the spheno-occipital and intersphenoidal synchondrosis define the canine brachycephalic skull (1, 49) and CM does not occur in all brachycephalic dogs. Therefore, CM is a more complex disorder and likely involves other premature suture closure (especially the lamboid) or other causes of insufficient cranium. The skull insufficiency results in rostrotentorial crowding which further reduces the functional caudotentorial space and causes hindbrain herniation. It is complicated by craniocervical junction deformation including change in angulation of the dens and increased proximity of the atlas to the skull and loss of the cisterna magna. Loss of the cisterna magna or other alteration in the CSF volume will affect the compliance of the CNS (90). In addition some predisposed breeds such as the CKCS have comparatively big brains (69, 71, 91). The pathogenesis of SM associated with CM is undetermined but is predisposed by two phenotypes (or combination); the first by extreme brachycephaly and the second by craniocervical junction deformation (39). This may be influenced by poor venous drainage, intracranial hypertension, changes in CNS compliance and conformational features of the spinal canal. Although CM is considered a naturally occurring model of adult Chiari type 1 malformation it is much closer to the hindbrain herniation seen with complex craniosynostosis such as Crouzon's syndrome (92).

Diagnostic Imaging of CM and SM

Radiographs

Radiographs are not recommended for the investigation of CM and SM. However, if they have been obtained, for example by the general practitioner in the work-up for cervical pain, then there may be features that are suggestive of CM and SM such as flattened supraoccipital bone and close proximity of the atlas to the skull (Figures 1, 2). In the instance of severe SM there may be widening of the cervical spinal canal and remodeling and scalloping of the vertebrae due to increased intraspinal pressure (93) (Figure 2). Dynamic (flexion and extension) atlantoaxial radiographs may be indicted to assess stability of the atlantoaxial joint especially if a foramen magnum decompression is planned (Figure 3).

FIGURE 1

Figure 1. Lateral skull and cranial cervical spinal radiographs in a Griffon Bruxellois with MRI confirmed severe CM and SM (A), a normal Griffon Bruxellois (B), and an Australian terrier (C). The head is in extension as the space between the dorsal atlas and the occiput increases with flexion. A red arrow is placed between the occiput and the dorsal tubercle of the atlas for each dog. The atlas is considerably closer to the skull in the SM affected dog.

FIGURE 2

Figure 2. Lateral skull and cranial cervical spinal radiographs of a 6 year old female Griffon Bruxellois presented with tetraparesis and following MRI diagnosed with symptomatic CM and SM. The skull has rostro-cranial doming and a “copper beaten” appearance due to convolutional markings relating to the gyri and presumed raised intracranial pressure. The supraoccipital bone is flattened (blue arrow) and the occipital crest is small (red arrow). A large cervical syrinx has resulting in widening of the cervical spinal canal with thinning and scalloping of the vertebrae (yellow arrow). A MRI confirmed CM, SM, and ventriculomegaly. The maximum width of the syrinx in the cervical spinal cord in a transverse section at the level of C2 was 8 mm.

FIGURE 3

Figure 3. Diagnostic imaging from a 5 year female CKCS presented with lethargy, ataxia, cervicotorticollis, and phantom scratching and following MRI diagnosed with symptomatic CM and SM. (A) T2-weighted mid-sagittal MRI of the brain and cranial cervical spinal cord. (B) T2- weighted mid sagittal MRI of the hindbrain and spine from C1 to T10. (C) Lateral skull and cervical spinal radiograph flexed at the atlantoaxial joint. (D) Lateral skull and cervical spinal radiograph extended at the atlantoaxial joint. (E) CT reformatted in the sagittal plane of the skull and cervical spine. MRI imaging (A,B) confirmed CM and SM with a large mid cervical SM involving the superficial dorsal horn thus explaining the cervicotorticollis and phantom scratching (insert). MRI also suggested atlantoaxial instability with spinal cord compression by the odontoid peg. Atlantoaxial instability was confirmed by a dynamic radiographic study (C,D). The CT was obtained for pre-surgical planning. The dorsal displacement of the odontoid peg (asterisk) and dorsal opening (arrow) between the atlas and axis can be appreciated (Siemens Magnetom Symphony, A Tim System, 1.5 T, Erlangen, Germany; Toshiba Aquilion Prime 160 slice, Otawara, Japan).

Ultrasound

In veterinary medicine ultrasound does not feature in management of CM and SM as it does in human medicine, where 3D ultrasound it is used intraoperatively to tailor a foramen magnum decompression and optimize re-establishment of CSF flow (94, 95). Ultrasonography of the atlanto-occipital junction has been described, proving it is possible to discern the cerebellar herniation (96). Hypothetically, ultrasound guidance could prove a useful aid for placement of a shunt into a syrinx or ventricle via a laminectomy or craniectomy.

Computed Tomography (CT)

CT should be performed if a vertebral malformation is suspected in association with SM especially if implanted surgical fixation is likely and to facilitate planning of this procedure (Figure 3). Most descriptions of CT in the investigation of CM and SM have been to answer a research hypothesis or question (51, 59, 60, 63, 97). Although CT has limited value in assessing CM and SM other than confirming a cerebellar herniation (98) and defining craniocervical junction abnormalities (63), hypothetically it could play a future role in health screening pedigree dogs assuming accurate morphometric analysis/machine learning can be translated from MRI studies and especially if risk of future disease could be predicted (99).

Myelography

Myelography and CT myelography can be used to investigate SM secondary to arachnoid diverticulae and webs/bands (100, 101) and CT myelography is the procedure of choice in the investigation of idiopathic SM if anatomical or cine MRI techniques are not available or have not revealed the cause of the CSF channel obstruction (102, 103). In veterinary medicine the most common application of CT myelography is when MRI is inappropriate because of metal implants and the owner wants to pursue further surgical management. An arachnoid web/band is indicated by a (often dorsal) flow block indicating CSF obstruction in combination with displacement or change in spinal cord caliber (Figure 4). An arachnoid diverticulae is a CSF containing space, lined by arachnoid mater which communicates with the subarachnoid space via a narrow “neck” enlarging via a one-way valve effect. With myelography the diverticulae will fill with contrast (101, 103, 104). Intrathecal contrast medium injections are more challenging when the spinal subarachnoid space is narrowed as a consequence of SM and should be undertaken by an experienced operator. CT myelography is not indicated in the investigation of SM secondary to CM.

FIGURE 4

Figure 4. Use of CT myelography to investigate arachnoid adhesions in in a 10 year old female Pug dog presented with signs of a thoracic myelopathy and that had previous surgical management for spinal arachnoid diverticulum and vertebral instability. Six months previous this dog had previously been managed surgically for a spinal arachnoid diverticulum (red arrow) with associated spinal cord edema/presyrinx (yellow arrow) at the level of T9/T10. She had been presented originally with a 2 year progressive history of myelopathy and the arachnoid diverticulum was considered associated with vertebral instability. Surgical management included marsupialization of the arachnoid diverticulum and spinal stabilization with Interface Pins (IMEX Veterinary Inc, Long View Texas) and Simplex-tobramycin bone cement (Howmedica, Limerick, Ireland). After an initial improvement the dog deteriorated and the metal implant precluded repeat MRI. CT myelography was performed from a lumbar injection. There is a reduced flow of contrast cranially (green arrow) and block to flow of the contrast material on the left side (blue arrow) and transverse images suggest adhesions between the spinal cord tissue and laminectomy site confirmed at surgery (pink arrow). (A) T2-weighted mid-sagittal MRI of the spinal cord from T6 to L1. There is a focal area of spinal cord edema (presyrinx) at the level of T9/T10 (red arrow). (B) Transverse 3D-CISS image at the level of T9/T10. There is a focal dilatation of the subarachnoid space at T9/T10 (yellow arrow). (C) Dorsal 3D-CISS image at the level of T7 to T13 demonstrating spinal cord edema (presyrinx) at the level of T9/T10 (red arrow) and suspected arachnoid diverticulum cranial to it (yellow arrow). (D) Midsagittal computed tomographic myelography from T6 to L2; there is reduced flow of iodinated contrast material cranial to T9 (green arrow). (E) transverse computed tomographic myelopathy at the level of T9. There is an adhesion between the spinal cord and laminectomy site (pink arrow). (F) Dorsal computed tomographic myelography from T6 to L2; there is a block of iodinated contrast material cranial to T9 (blue arrow) (Siemens Magnetom Symphony, A Tim System, 1.5 T, Erlangen, Germany; Toshiba Aquilion Prime 160 slice, Otawara, Japan). Image acknowledgment Dr Anna Tauro and Dr Colin Driver, Fitzpatrick Referrals.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

MRI is undoubtedly the modality of choice to investigate CM and/or SM. On making a diagnosis of CM/SM there are six aims for the clinician.

1) To assess and document the anatomical changes (Figure 5, Supplementary Figure 1).

2) To determine the cause of the SM. SM is an acquired disease which occurs secondary to CSF channel disruption therefore the aim of MRI is to determine the site of that obstruction. Typically disruption at the craniocervical junction due to CM results in syrinx development in the cranial cervical region (85).

3) To determine the full extent of disease, for example the caudal extent of the syrinx in the event of holocord SM (85).

4) Eliminate other potential causes of the clinical presentation and neurological localization, for example intervertebral disc disease as an alternative explanation for spinal pain.

5) Assess whether the radiological findings are consistent with the neurological localization and severity, for example forebrain signs such as seizures or cranial nerve deficits such as facial nerve paralysis cannot be explained by SM which is a spinal cord disease.

6) To determine if other diagnostic modalities are recommended, for example CT to characterize bony abnormalities that might need surgical stabilization and therefore planning.

FIGURE 5

Figure 5. Suggested interpretation of MRI for diagnosis of CM pain and symptomatic SM—the authors' method. With the exception of the basic scoring by the CMSM health scheme (33), there is no objective measure for the diagnosis of CM pain. The diagnosis is made by exclusion and the weight of clinical and MRI evidence. Not all dogs will have all the features. The diagnosis of symptomatic SM is more objective reflecting the size and neuro-localization. For the supporting scientific justification see Tables 1–4 however this method is also based on the authors own observations and interpretations of which the reader should take account.

MRI Protocols to Investigate CM and SM

Diagnostic MRI evaluation of CM and SM should include imaging of brain and spinal cord in at least two orientations and include protocols to produce static T1-weighted and T2-weighted sequences (102). Sagittal and transverse imaging of the brain including the craniocervical junction is essential to evaluate the rostrotentorial and caudotentorial overcrowding, CSF spaces and any compromise of the craniospinal junction. Spinal MRI establishes the presence, maximum width on transverse images, dorsal horn involvement and longitudinal extent of the syrinx/presyrinx (Table 5 and Supplementary File 1). It is recommended that at the time of scanning that the microchip or tattoo number (confirmed by the veterinary surgeon) is included on the DICOM images in addition to the Kennel Club registration number if the dog is registered. This is to permit submission to an official CMSM health scheme should the owner request it (33).

TABLE 5

Table 5. Diagnostic imaging protocols for investigation of CM and SM.

Protocols will vary between low and high field machines because of the difference in anatomical definition. T2-weighted sequences will be preferred for high field machines and T1-weighted sequences for low field machines. However, at least one region of the spinal cord, typically a sagittal sequence of the cervical region, that includes both T1 and T2-weighting is essential to determine that the signal characteristics of the fluid filled cavity is identical to CSF and to eliminate other causes of hyperintensity on T2-weighted images for example edema associated with meningoencephalomyelitis of unknown origin. As a general rule, measurements of the width of CSF spaces are considered more accurate on T1-weighted images, however T2 weighted images are more sensitive to the presence of excessive fluid within the neural tissue and in particular presyrinx (presyringomyelia) which may eventually form a syrinx (102, 105). Limited “low cost” imaging of CM or SM with a 3-sequence protocol of the hindbrain and cranial cervical spinal cord is offered by some institutions for dog breeders that wish to screen their breeding stock (33, 106), however this minimal protocol does not provide information about the brain or syrinx involvement of the thoracic and lumbar regions and is not recommended for the dog presented to a veterinarian for a diagnostic work of suspected CM or SM. Factors that influence the ability to make an accurate assessment of CM and SM are detailed in Table 6.

TABLE 6

Table 6. Factors that influence the ability of make an accurate assessment of CM and SM on MRI.

T2 Fluid-attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR) imaging of the brain is a sequence which uses an inversion pulse and long echo time to suppress normal CSF signal on a heavily T2-weighted image. Pathology is suggested by high signal against background of normal signal from the brain and low or zero signal from the CSF (119). A FLAIR is not an essential part of CMSM protocol but is indicated in the assessment of acute hydrocephalus to demonstrate periventricular interstitial edema and to aid identification of any causative or associated lesion (120). FLAIR sequences are also indicated if meningoencephalomyelitis is suspected (121).

Paramagnetic contrast enhancement may be indicated especially if (i) there is evidence of a mass; (ii) if the cause of the CSF channel obstruction is not apparent; (iii) there is a presyrinx and need to eliminate other causes of spinal cord edema. Spinal intramedullary tumors may be cystic and it is important to distinguish these from SM (122, 123).

If the cause of CSF channel disruption is not apparent, then balanced steady-state free precession sequences (bSSFP) such as FIESTA (Fast Imaging Employing Steady-state Acquisition) or 3D-CISS (Three-Dimensional Constructive Interference in steady state) should be employed to improve detection of arachnoid webs and diverticulae (109, 124). These are a three dimensional gradient echo sequence that produces high contrast between the CSF and structures within the subarachnoid space. They have less flow void artifact associated with turbulent CSF and allow higher detection rates of arachnoid webs and other adhesions (102, 125) (Figure 6) and for low field MRI where obtaining good signal-to-noise and spatial resolution is a challenge, it is recommended that a bSSFP sequence be included in any protocol that evaluates the CSF channels (or disruption of) (109). Half-Fourier acquisition single-shot turbo spin-echo (HASTE) sequences are heavily T2W sequences that produced a myelographic effect and can be obtained in a very short time. They are also described as being useful to detect arachnoid diverticulae (126). However, the trade-off for such short imaging times is lower spatial resolution and T2 blurring artifact.

FIGURE 6

Figure 6. Use of bSSFP (3D CISS) to identify a spinal cord adhesion in an 18 month old male Pug dog presented with signs of cervical myelopathy. This dog had previously been managed surgically for a spinal arachnoid diverticulum at the level of C2/C3 (age 5 months). (A) T2-weighted mid-sagittal MRI of the hind brain and cervical spinal cord (B) mid-sagittal 3D-CISS image at the level of C2–C4. There is a syrinx between C3 and C7 (asterisk). The 3D-CISS image highlights the likely cause of this syrinx as an adhesion between the spinal cord and laminectomy site (arrow) (Siemens Magnetom Symphony, A Tim System, 1.5 T, Erlangen, Germany).

MRI flow studies are an integral part of the diagnostic work up of CM and SM in human patients (14, 102) and for review of the clinical application for SM, arachnoid webs and the subarachnoid space see Li et al. (104). Standard MRI sequences of the brain and spinal cord assume that the tissue is static with movement only occurring in blood vessels and CSF and the aim is to achieve higher spatial and contrast resolution typically at the expense of temporal resolution. This results in motion-related blurring of non-static structures (104). Cine MRI uses cardiac gating using electrocardiogram or pulse oximetry. Phase-contrast cine MRI (Figure 7) measures pulsatile CSF motion influenced by the cardiac cycle and can measure both CSF and syrinx fluid velocities in a defined area of interest (102, 127). By contrast cine bSSFP allows appreciation of the movement of the central nervous system and structures within the subarachnoid space. The data for a single slice is acquired multiple times over the cardiac cycle with each single image corresponding to single point in that cycle (termed a cardiac phase). All the images are then viewed sequentially as a cine loop (104). Phase contrast cine MRI is used to localize CSF channel obstruction, to demonstrate improvement (or lack thereof) post operatively and also has a role in prognostication. Syrinx fluid movement, as detected by phase contrast cine MRI, is associated with progressive neurological signs whereas lack of syrinx fluid movement is associated with no or stable neurological signs (102, 128). However, it does not allow visualization of arachnoid membranes and so in humans, and for investigation of idiopathic SM, Phase contrast cine MRI is used to localize the area of flow abnormalities/obstruction and cine bSSFP is used to define the arachnoid webs or bands (104).

FIGURE 7

Figure 7. Phase contrast cine MRI of the brain and cervical spinal cord in normal (A) and a CMSM affected CKCS (B). Left systole, right diastole. Compared to normal (A), the SM affected (B) has little caudal flow in the dorsal cervical subarachnoid space (yellow arrows) and by contrast high velocity flow in the ventral cervical subarachnoid space (red arrows). There is pulsatile flow in the syrinx at the level of C2/C3 (asterisk) and fluid entering the medulla parenchyma (green arrows) (Siemens Symphony Tim system, 1.5 T, Enlangen Germany).

In veterinary medicine, phase contrast cine MRI has been used to investigate CSF flow (80) and cine bSSFP used to investigate cerebellar movement (76) (Table 3) but its application as a diagnostic tool has yet to be realized.

To make a diagnosis of symptomatic CM and or SM the diagnostic imaging should be related to the clinical history and examination findings.

Diagnosis of CM-Pain

CM-pain is a difficult diagnosis because the clinical signs are non-specific and/or have alternative explanations but should be considered in a predisposed breed presenting with a signs suggesting pain such as; a history of vocalization described as without obvious trigger, when shifting position when recumbent and when being lifted under the sternum to a height; spinal pain; head and ear rubbing or scratching; refusal or difficulty jumping or doing stairs; exercise intolerance/reduced activity; sleep disruption; or behavioral change described as becoming more anxious, aggressive, or withdrawn (48). Morphometric studies found CM pain was associated with increasing brachycephaly with shortening of the skull base with rostrotentorial overcrowding resulting in rostral flattening of the forebrain, reduction and ventral displacement of the olfactory bulbs and increased height of the cranium, especially in the occipital region (39). There may be changes suggesting obstruction of CSF channels including reduction in the cranial and spinal subarachnoid space in addition to ventriculomegaly of all ventricles and cisterns except the cisterna magna which is often reduced (Figure 7). The craniocervical changes are less pronounced than in SM affected dogs and indeed this feature is hypothesized to protect this cohort from developing SM (39). Ultimately the diagnosis must be made by ruling out other causes of pain in combination with consistent clinical and MRI findings. A guide is suggested in Figures 5, 8.

FIGURE 8

Figure 8. Morphometric changes in CMSM. Mid-sagittal T2-weighted brain MRI of three CKCS: normal (A), CM-pain affected (B), and SM-affected (C). The left column compares the CSF spaces. There is effacement of the cranial subarachnoid spaces evidenced by reduced definition of the sulci filled with high signal CSF in affected dogs (B,C). A Red asterisk highlights the cruciate sulcus for comparison. In addition there is ventriculomegaly with dilatation of the lateral ventricle (purple asterisk), third ventricle and quadrigeminal cistern (green asterisk) and fourth ventricle (aqua asterisk). The right column compares the neuro-anatomical changes and also the direction in which the neuroparenchyma has been deformed and crowded by the bony restrictions. Compared to the normal CKCS (A), the affected CKCS (B,C) are more brachycephalic with shortening of the basicranium and prephenoid bone (orange shading) with reduced and more ventrally orientated olfactory bulbs (green shading). The rostral forebrain is flattened in (B,C) and the rostrotentorial neuroparenchyma is displaced dorsocaudally giving increased height to the cranium particularly in (B). This reduces the functional caudotentorial space contributing to the hindbrain herniation. The atlas is closer to the skull and supraocciptal bone is flattened, particularly in (C), the SM-affected dog which also has a reduction of the occipital crest (orange asterisk). In addition to the brachycephaly, the SM affected dog has further compromise of the craniocervical junction by a cervical flexure and acute angulation of the odontoid peg resulting in kinking/ elevation of the craniospinal junction. The syrinx is indicated by the dark blue asterisk (Siemens Magnetom Symphony, A Tim System, 1.5 T, Erlangen, Germany).

Diagnosis of Symptomatic SM

The diagnosis of SM implies a fluid filled cavity related to disturbance of CSF flow, spinal cord tethering or intramedullary tumor; it is not an appropriate description for myelomalacia or cystic lesions (14). SM can be asymptomatic (34) and when interpreting MRI, an assessment should be made as to whether the location and severity of the syrinx would account for the signs. Signs of an “active” and filling syrinx include fluid signal-void sign within the syrinx cavity indicating pulsatile or turbulent flow, hypothesized to be a cause of syrinx propagation (117) (Figure 9).

FIGURE 9

Figure 9. Progression of SM. Diagnostic Imaging of a female CKCS at 8 months old (A,B) and 3 years old (C,D). The CKCS was originally presented with signs of pain. When represented at 3 years of age, the signs of pain were no longer controlled by medication and she had mild thoracic limb hypermetria, tetraparesis, and pelvic limb ataxia. T2-weighted mid-sagittal MRI of the brain and cranial cervical spinal cord in a CM and SM affected CKCS (A) 8 months, (C) 3 years old T2-weighted mid-sagittal MRI of the vertebral column from T7 to Cy1 (B) 8 months, (D) 3 years old. (A,B) Imaging indicated risk of progressive SM with loss of the cranial subarachnoid space and effacement of the cranial sulci (blue asterisks), fluid signal-void sign within the syrinx suggesting pulsatile or turbulent flow (green arrow) and a pre-syrinx (oedema) and central canal dilatation in the caudal thoracic spinal cord (red arrow). (C,D) The syrinx has progressed to holocord SM (red asterisk). Although conclusions cannot be drawn without pressure measurements, it is interesting that MRI signs that can suggest elevated intra-cranial pressure (129) and fluid surging and pulsation within the syrinx (117) are diminished with an appreciably greater cranial subarachnoid space indicated by high signal CSF within the sulci (blue asterisks) and less fluid signal-void sign within the syrinx (Siemens Magnetom Symphony, A Tim System, 1.5 T, Erlangen, Germany).

In addition an active and filling syrinx is expansive within the spinal cord and generally has an asymmetrical shape on transverse images. By contrast a quiescent syrinx is centrally located, elliptical on sagittal images and symmetrical, usually circular on transverse images and results in little or no change to the outline of the spinal cord (87, 130). Symptomatic SM results in a myelopathy and therefore is suggested by sensory and motor signs that localize to the level of the spinal cord affected by the syrinx. However, gait disturbances may be surprisingly mild even with extensive SM. The dog in Figure 9 was presented with a mild pelvic limb ataxia, thoracic limb hypermetria and tetraparesis and was considered by the owner to have a normal exercise tolerance. If the clinical signs are disproportionate to the extent of the syrinx, other differentials should be explored for example degenerative myelopathy related to superoxide dismutase-1 mutation as a cause of pelvic limb paresis (48, 131). The maximum width of the syrinx on transverse images should be assessed; myelopathic signs in CKCS are associated with a syrinx transverse width of 4 mm or more whereas phantom scratching and cervicotorticollis/scoliosis are associated with extension of the syrinx into the superficial dorsal horn ipsilateral to the phantom scratching side and/or contralateral to the head tilt (48, 87). Phantom scratching is associated with extension to the superficial dorsal horn ipsilateral to the scratching side in the C3-C6 spinal cord segments (corresponding to C2-C5 vertebrae) (88). A guide is suggested in Figures 5, 8.

Conclusion

Diagnosis of CM-pain is made by appropriate clinical signs in addition to MRI brain findings of a brachycephaly with rostrotentorial crowding including rostral flattening, olfactory bulb reduction and rotation, increased height of the cranium with reduction of the functional caudotentorial space and hindbrain herniation. There may also be changes suggesting raised intracranial pressure such as loss of sulci definition with ventriculomegaly. The cisterna magna is reduced. In addition to these brachycephalic changes, dogs with SM are more likely to have craniocervical junction abnormalities including rostral displacement of the axis and atlas with increased odontoid angulation causing craniospinal deformation and medullary oblongata elevation. Symptomatic SM is diagnosed on the basis of signs of myelopathy and presence of a large syrinx that is consistent with the neuro-localization. The imaging protocol should establish the longitudinal and transverse extent of the syrinx. If the cause of CSF channel disruption is not revealed by anatomical MRI then other imaging techniques such as bSSFP sequences may be appropriate.

Author Contributions

CR: concept and original draft. FS: editing and reviewing draft. SK: graphics, editing, and reviewing draft.

Conflict of Interest Statement

The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest.

Acknowledgments

The authors wish to acknowledge the considerable skill and dedication of the radiography and neurology teams at Fitzpatrick Referrals.

Supplementary Material

The Supplementary Material for this article can be found online at: https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fvets.2018.00280/full#supplementary-material

Supplementary Table 1. MRI parameters for a CM and SM specific protocol on a 1.5T machine.

Supplementary Figure 1. Duplicate of Figure 5 with a higher resolution.

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