Hydrocephalus is a condition in which there is an excess of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) that has leaked inside the skull, leading to brain swelling and increased pressure in the skull. It is also known as "water on the brain". There are two main types of hydrocephalus in dogs: congenital (present at birth) and acquired. Congenital hydrocephalus is a birth defect most often associated with a dome-shaped skull, a large fontanel ("soft spot") on top of the skull, and eyes that appear to gaze downward. Affected dogs may not have any obvious clinical signs, especially when they are very young. Small, miniature, and toy breeds seem to be more affected, including the Boston Terrier, Chihuahua, English Bulldog, Manchester Terrier, Pekingese, Toy French Poodle, and Yorkshire Terrier.
Symptoms of hydrocephalus in dogs can vary depending on the specific cause and area of the brain thats affected. Some dogs may not show any symptoms, while others may experience:
- Difficulty training and decreased awareness or lack of response to stimuli
- Visual deficits, often blindness
- Abnormal gaze (eyes fixed down and away)
- Seizures
- Head pressing
- Large, dome-shaped head, often with congenital hydrocephalus and with open fontanelles (the soft spot on the top of the skull)
- Brain dysfunction
- Abnormal behavior - inappropriate vocalization, over excitability, drowsiness, circling
- Gait abnormalities
- Increased intracranial pressure, often leading to stupor or coma
Diagnosis of hydrocephalus in dogs involves a physical examination, neurological examination, and imaging tests such as X-rays, CT scans, or MRI scans. Treatment of hydrocephalus involves addressing the underlying cause. In the acute or early phases of hydrocephalus, treatment is directed toward reducing CSF production and inflammation by using corticosteroids (steroids, such as cortisone or prednisone) . In more severe or chronic cases, anti-seizure medications will be needed, and drugs such as furosemide, acetazolamide, and omeprazole may benefit affected dogs. Surgery may also be an option, such as the placement of a shunt to drain excess fluid from the brain.
In summary, hydrocephalus in dogs is a condition where there is an excess of cerebrospinal fluid that has leaked inside the skull, leading to brain swelling and increased pressure in the skull. It can be congenital or acquired and is more common in small, miniature, and toy breeds. Symptoms can var...
