Syringohydromyelia · Hydromyelie · Spinal cord central canal dilation · Zentralkanalerweiterung · Hydrosyringomyelia
Hydromyelia is an abnormal widening of the central canal within the spinal cord, which is the fluid-filled tube running through the center of the spine. This occurs when cerebrospinal fluid, the protective liquid surrounding the brain and spinal cord, builds up and puts pressure on the surrounding nerve tissue. Over time, this pressure can cause progressive damage to the nervous system.
Symptoms typically appear in dogs between 1 and 4 years of age. Owners may notice signs of neck or head pain, coordination problems, muscle weakness, or 'phantom scratching' where the dog scratches at the air near its neck without making contact.
While the condition is lifelong and cannot be fully cured, it can be managed with daily pain medications or, in severe cases, complex neurosurgery. Depending on whether medical management or surgery is chosen, treatment costs typically range from €1,500 to €8,000.
More conditions affecting the Head / nervous system.
Estimated range of typical treatment cost. Actual cost depends on severity, clinic and region.