Dermoid sinus is a congenital neural tube defect seen primarily in Rhodesian Ridgebacks, though it can occur in other breeds. It’s essentially a tube-like structure, or sinus, that extends from the skin towards the spinal cord. Think of it like a tunnel that shouldn’t be there.
During fetal development, the neural tube, which eventually forms the brain and spinal cord, closes. In some Rhodesian Ridgebacks, this closure is incomplete, leaving a small pit or opening on the dorsal midline (the back, along the ridge). This opening can then extend downwards, forming the sinus.
The severity of dermoid sinus varies. Some sinuses are shallow pits that don’t connect to anything significant. Others can extend all the way to the spinal cord, potentially causing serious complications. These more severe sinuses can create a direct pathway for bacteria to travel from the skin surface into the spinal cord, leading to infections like meningitis or myelitis (inflammation of the spinal cord). These infections can be life-threatening.
There are typically four different types of dermoid sinus classified by severity and the degree to which they connect with deeper structures:
- Type I: A shallow pit that ends blindly under the skin.
- Type II: A sinus that ends in a blind sac, but deeper than Type I.
- Type III: A sinus that connects to the spinal dura mater (the outer membrane surrounding the spinal cord).
- Type IV: A sinus that penetrates the dura and connects directly to the spinal cord itself.
Diagnosis usually involves a thorough physical examination. A veterinarian will look for a pit, dimple, or tuft of hair along the dog’s dorsal midline, particularly in the neck and back. They may try to gently probe the area to determine the depth and direction of the sinus. Imaging techniques like MRI or ultrasound can be used to further investigate the sinus and its connection to the spinal cord, particularly if surgery is being considered.
The treatment for dermoid sinus is surgical removal. The entire sinus tract must be carefully excised to prevent recurrence. It’s crucial to remove all of the sinus lining to eliminate the potential for infection. The surgery is delicate, especially if the sinus is connected to the spinal cord, and should be performed by a skilled veterinary surgeon experienced in this procedure.
Because dermoid sinus is considered a hereditary condition, responsible breeders screen their dogs and avoid breeding affected individuals. Genetic testing is available to help identify carriers and affected dogs. Early detection and surgical removal are crucial for managing dermoid sinus and preventing serious complications, allowing affected Rhodesian Ridgebacks to live long and healthy lives.
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