3: Paroxysmal Disorders

Question 1

Mechanism of narcolepsy/cataplexy:

Answer 1

Orexin dysfunction (receptor problem or orexin deficiency)

Question 2

Cataplectic attack:

Answer 2

sudden and complete atonia

Question 3

Diagnostic findings of narcolepsy/cataplexy:

Answer 3

EEG shows low amp, fast waves

Question 4

Presentation of behavioral disorders as paroxysmal events:

Answer 4

Continuous pacing, licking, lip smacking, tail chasing, etc
Animal normal between episodes
No alteration in consciousness

Question 5

Mechanisms of transient vestibular attacks:

Answer 5

Systemic hypertension, hypothyroidism (may be ischemic), otitis media/interna, cerebellar malf

Question 6

Examples of Paroxysmal Dyskinesias:

Answer 6

Cramp/Hypertonicity in Scottish Terriers
Gluten Sensitive Dyskinesia
Chinook Seizures

Question 7

Presentation of Scottie Cramp:

Answer 7

Stiffness, bunny hopping, triggered by stress/excitement etc

Question 8

Signalment of idiopathic head tremor:

Answer 8

Bostons, bulldogs, boxers, dobeys
Onset <4y