Craniocervical Morphometry in Pomeranians—Part II: Associations with Chiari-like Malformation and Syringomyelia

Abstract

Background: The aim of Part II of this two-part study is to describe and analyze the association of various aspects and measurements related to the morphometry of the skull and craniocervical region to CM/SM status of Pomeranians, by means of computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Methods: Prospectively, Pomeranians were included that underwent both CT and MRI studies of the head and cervicothoracic vertebral column. For those cases where qualitative classifications differed between observers, the experienced observer re-evaluated the studies and decided on a final classification that was used for further analysis. For quantitative measurements, the means of the observers’ measurements were used for analysis. Results: Among statistically significant differences in measurements, we found that dogs with SM had a significantly shorter clivus length based on both MRI (p = 0.01) and CT measurements (p = 0.01), and a significantly smaller caudal cranial fossa area based on both MRI (p = 0.02) and CT measurements (p = 0.02). Conclusions: Significant morphometrical differences were identified between dogs with or without CM/SM. The findings in this study add to those already described in other breeds and provide further insight into factors that may play a role in the pathogenesis of CM/SM in Pomeranians.