Why do brachycephalic have distended lateral ventricles?

Vet Record 2020

January 11, 2025

Daniela Farke, Francesca Dörn, Sebastian Schaub, et al.

Background:
The study investigates cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) flow dynamics in the mesencephalic aqueduct of dogs using 2D cine phase-contrast MRI. Brachycephalic dogs frequently exhibit ventriculomegaly and internal hydrocephalus, yet the pathophysiological relationships remain unclear. The study aims to evaluate differences in CSF flow dynamics across dogs with normal ventricular spaces, ventriculomegaly, and internal hydrocephalus.

Methods:
The study included 51 dogs divided into three groups:

-Group 1: Brachycephalic dogs with ventriculomegaly or internal hydrocephalus.
-Group 2: Brachycephalic dogs with normal ventricles.
-Group 3: Meso-/dolichocephalic dogs with normal ventricles.

MRI scans were conducted using phase-contrast imaging to measure CSF flow velocities (Vrost and Vcaud) and volumes (Volrost and Volcaud). Data analysis was performed with software tools, and statistical tests, including ANCOVA and Bonferroni corrections, assessed intergroup differences.

Results:
Dogs with ventriculomegaly and internal hydrocephalus showed significantly higher rostral (Vrost) and caudal (Vcaud) flow velocities than controls:

-Group 1 Vrost: 4.32 cm/s vs. Group 2: 1.99 cm/s and Group 3: 1.85 cm/s.
-Group 1 Vcaud: -6.1 cm/s vs. Group 2: -2.91 cm/s and Group 3: -2.46 cm/s. Group 1 also exhibited increased Volcaud compared to controls, indicating impaired drainage of CSF, contributing to ventricular distension.

Limitations:
The study was limited by variability in brachycephaly severity across breeds and groups, which may have influenced the results.
The use of anesthesia and the supine position during MRI might not fully reflect natural conditions.
The small sample size restricted intra-breed comparisons.

Conclusions:
CSF flow abnormalities, including increased velocities and volumes, were identified in brachycephalic dogs with ventriculomegaly and hydrocephalus. These findings suggest the need for repeated MRI monitoring in at-risk dogs to track potential progression of ventricular distension.

A T2-weighted sagittal image (A) and a phase-contrast image in the transversal plane (B) of a 2-year-old French Bulldog from group 2. The T2-
weighted MRI (A) demonstrates the level of the mesencephalic aqueduct (lines and circle) at which further phase-contrast images were obtained in the transverse plane (B). The region of interest is pointed out within the phase-contrast image (arrow).

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