Hydrocephalus in Dogs

Hydrocephalus in Dogs

By: Dr. John McDonnell

Section: Information In-depth

Hydrocephalus is a neurological disease in which there is excessive accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) within the ventricular system of the brain. The fluid in the brain (CSF) is normally formed in the brain. It bathes, protects, and circulates through the ventricular system within the brain and the coverings and is then absorbed into the circulatory system.

The production of CSF has an active and passive component; absorption is only a passive process. When the absorption of CSF is blocked or excessive fluid is produced, the volume of CSF increases. The increased CSF volume puts pressure on the brain, forcing it against the skull, damaging or destroying the tissues.

Symptoms of excess CSF volume vary with the cause, the age at presentation, the brain tissue being compromised, and the degree of tissue damage. In young animals, CSF can accumulate in the brain causing the fontanel (soft spot) to bulge.

The bones of the skull are soft and can be enlarged due to the increased volume and pressure leading to a dome shaped cranium. The eye position within in the eye socket may be abnormally deviated where the white portion of the eye (sclera) is visible in both eyes towards the nose.

Causes

  • Canine distemper
  • Parvovirus
  • Parainfluenza virus
  • Bacterial meningitis
  • Aberrant parasitic migration
  • Fungal encephalitis
  • Ependymoma
  • Choroid plexus papilloma
  • Meningioma
  • Pharyngioma
  • Epidermoid & dermoid cysts
            
    The most common cause of hydrocephalus in young animals is congenital defect. Toy breeds have the highest incidence. Some commonly affected breeds include:

  • Chihuahua
  • Maltese
  • Yorkshire terriers
  • English bulldogs
  • American bulldogs
  • Lhasa Apso
  • Pomeranian
  • Toy poodles

     
    Printable Version
     
    Have a Pet Question?
    Send Your Pet Question to Dr. Jon
    and His Staff of Veterinarians Ask Dr. Jon
    Dr. Jon's Newsletter
    Yes! Send Me the Latest Health Information, Pet Tips, Pet Stories and more...
     
     

    Related Articles

    • 1 Seizure Disorders

      A seizure (convulsion) is a series of involuntary contractions of the voluntary muscles, abnormal sensations, abnormal behaviors or some combination of these events. Seizures are symptoms – they are not...

      Read MoreRead More
  • Related Articles
    • 1 Seizure Disorders

      A seizure (convulsion) is a series of involuntary contractions of the voluntary muscles, abnormal sensations, abnormal behaviors or some combination of these events. Seizures are symptoms – they are not...

      Read MoreRead More
     

    Over 10,000 Veterinarian Approved Articles

    Related Articles
    • 1 Seizure Disorders

      A seizure (convulsion) is a series of involuntary contractions of the voluntary muscles, abnormal sensations, abnormal behaviors or some combination of these events. Seizures are symptoms – they are not...

      Read MoreRead More
    Advertisement
    Advertisement