Mission
Neurology Networks tries to offer broad exposure to various topics that may be presented on the veterinary neurology board exam.
Anomalous - Cerebellar anomalies
“Imaging diagnosis – cerebellar vermal hypoplasia in a Minature Schnauzer.”
Choi et al
Vet Radiol and Ultrasound: Vol 48, No2. 2007
3 mo MI Miniature Schnauzer with cerebellar signs (non-progressive for 1-2 months). The signs and imaging features remained unchanged 19 months later when euthanized. A fluid filled cavity in place of vermis was found to be hypoplasia (dramatically reduced Purkinje cells) rather than a cyst on necropsy.
Some key terms:
Dandy-Walker syndrome: cerebellar hypoplasia, caudal fossa cysts (from 4th ventricle), communicating hydrocephalus
Rhomboencephalosynapsis: congenital fusion of the cerebellar hemispheres, dentate nuclei, and superior peduncles with vermian agenesis. On MRI, the cerebellar hemispheres appear fused with an absent or very hypoplastic vermis, and transverse folia on the coronal views.
Joubert’s syndrome: hypoplasia or aplasia of the vermis. Clinically, humans can have transient episodic hyperpnea, ocluomotor abnormalities, ataxia, and variable degrees of mental retardation. MR images have a ‘‘molar tooth’’ brain stem, a ‘‘bat-wing’’ or ‘‘umbrella’’-shaped fourth ventricle, and a cleft vermis.
