Dysplasia of occipital in dog breed pinscher

case report

Abstract

Occipital Dysplasia is a morfological, congenital and rare alteration in dogs. Often asymptomatic, it consists of the dorsal enlargement of the foramen magnum, which presents an abnormal, varying in shape and size. Studies suggest that this malformation is related to the breeding of dogs with consanguinity and small breeds. The present work reports the case of a female canine, pinscher breed, presenting na increase of volume in the cervical region C1 and C2, tremors in pelvic limbs, locomotion deficit, staggered ataxia and proprioception deficit. The animal was diagnosed with occipital dysplasia and, together with this malformation, presented hydrocephalus and atlanto-axial instability, characterizing the clinical signs as a neurological syndrome with brain and spinal cord signals in the cervical region. Radiographical exams of skull and cervical spine of the the atlanto-occipital joint concluded the diagnosis. Treatment with acetozolamide and prednisone for 15 days, had as main objectives the control of pain and the reduction of cerebrospinal fluid production, which promoted the clinical improvement seen in the patient. The present report aimed to publish this case so that more veterinarians have access to it and knowledge of this malformation, thus instituting the correct treatment of these patients and offering them a better quality of life.