Conditions list revision Flashcards
Describe the aetiology of Chronic renal failure
Persistent loss of kindney function over time commonly seen in geriatric cats
Briefly explain the pathophysiology of CRF
The kidney is unable to filter nitrogenous waste from the blood leading to uraemia
Deterioration in renal function causes pH and electrolyte imbalance (potassium and phosphate)
Describe clinical signs that may be seen in this patient and explain the reason for each sign - CRF
Polyuria
Polydipsia
Weight loss
Oral ulcers
Dehydration
Select TWO diagnostic techniques available for the diagnosis of this condition and describe each technique - CRF
What are the rationales for choosing these techniques? CRF
Urine specific gravity - assess urine concentrating ability, non invasive, quick and simple to perform
Blood biochemisty - simple and quick to perform, elevations can indicate CKD however as there are other causes further tests usually performed in addition to confirm the diagnosis (such as urinalysis to determine USG)
Describe the aetiology of Diabetes Mellitus
TYPE 1; β cells have been destroyed and can no longer synthesise insulin adequately.
TYPE 2 reduced ability to respond to insulin
Briefly explain the pathophysiology of Diabetes Mellitus
Absolute or relative insulin deficiency
Reduced tissue utilisation of glucose
Leads to hyperglycaemia in bloodstream
And low glucose levels in cells
Renal threshold for glucose exceeded»_space; glycosuria
Eventually fats are broken down as cells cant access glucose
This can lead to ketosis
Describe clinical signs that may be seen in this patient and explain the reason for each sign - diabetes mellitus
Polyphagia
Polyuria
Plydipsia
Glycosuria
Select TWO diagnostic techniques available for the diagnosis of this condition and
describe each technique - diabetes mellitus
What are the rationales for choosing these techniques? Diabetes mellitus
Single blood glucose assay – simple and quick to obtain, relatively low cost, provides accurate reading of glucose levels in blood at the time of sampling
Urinalysis – glucose and ketones – non-invasive, easy and cheap to carry out, Detection of ketones highlights if gluconeogenesis is occurring
Describe the aetiology of dialated cardiomyopathy
Thinning of myocardium results in a decreased ability of the heart to generate pressure to pump blood through the vascular system, factors including nutritional, infectious, and genetic predisposition have been implicated, commonly large and giant breeds dogs, sometimes occurs in cats
Briefly explain the pathophysiology of dilated cardiomyopathy
DCM is characterized bydilation of the ventricles with ventricular wall thinning, ventricular and atrial enlargement, and systolic and diastolic dysfunction
Describe THREE clinical signs that may be seen in this patient and explain the reason for each sign - dilated cardiomyopathy
collapse or fainting
decreased appetite
weight loss
swollenbelly
depressed attitude or quiet and not interactive
sudden death
Select TWO diagnostic techniques available for the diagnosis of this condition and
Describe each technique & Explain the rationale for the selection of that technique
- dilated cardiomyopathy
radiography is accessible in first opinion practice but has limitations when it comes to providing information about the shape and size and function of structures inside the heart. Lung fields can be evaluated at the same time to ascertain if there is concurrent respiratory disease as well as detect pulmonary oedema
Ultrasonography can be carried out on conscious patients most of the time and can provide information regarding the architecture of valves, ventricular muscle thickness and chamber size and function ( but it does require a certain level of operator skill. )
Clinical signs of acquired heart disease may be similar when the disease reaches its terminal stages for all conditions. A cardiac murmur may be present in all 3 conditions although the precise nature of the murmur can vary.
Describe the aetiology of Exocrine pancreatic insuffciency (EPI)
Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI) isthe inability to produce sufficient pancreatic enzymes needed to digest fats, carbohydrates, and proteins.
Briefly explain the pathophysiology of EPI
Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency is caused by decreased production of digestive enzymes by the pancreas.
Describe clinical signs that may be seen in a dog suffering from EPI
polyphagia, weight loss, and loose stools.
Select TWO diagnostic techniques available for the diagnosis of this condition and
Describe each technique & Explain the rationale for the selection of that technique
EPI
History and clinical signs (though signs common to many other intestinal problems)
Faecal examination revealing large amounts of undigested fat in faeces
Serum Trypsin-like immunoreactivity – looking for low levels to confirm disease, external lab test, confirms diagnosis
Describe the aetiology of Epilepsy
Neurological condition arising from disruption of forebrain function
Idiopathic epilepsy is the most common- cause unknown but genetic link suspected in a number of breeds including Border Collies, Hungarian Visla and Labradors
Briefly explain the pathophysiology of Epilepsy
Disordered electrical activity of the brain cells – imbalance in excitatory and inhibitory signals
tonic clonic seziures
Partial or generalised
Generalised – dogs
Partial – cats
Three phases
Pre-ictal
Ictal
Post-ictal
Prolonged seizing – status epilepticus (more than 5 mins)
Describe clinical signs that may be seen in this patient and explain the reason for each sign - Epilepsy
Period prior to seizure
Feels uneasy
Altered behaviour pattern
Anxious and restless
Episode of fitting
Collapse and unconsciousness
Action varies animal to animal
Clonic paddling spasms or tonic spasms
Spasms of jaw muscles
Vocalisation
Incontinence
Recovery period
Extreme tiredness
Hunger
Ataxia
Compulsive walking
Dazed
May last several hours
Select TWO diagnostic techniques available for the diagnosis of this condition and
Describe each technique & Explain the rationale for the selection of that technique.
- Epilepsy
History and clinical signs are very important and accompanied by a physical and neurological exam may lead the VS to diagnosis
Blood testing may be carried out to rule out other causes – infection, toxicity, glucose, uraemia
MRI and/or CT – advanced imaging may help to visualise lesions in the CNS, requires GA.sedation
CSF tap – usually performed under sedation/GA and evaluated for presence of inflammatory cells etc., external lab or referral
Describe the aetiology of Feline leukaemia virus (FeLV)
Retrovirus from the oncornavirus (cancer causing) group
Incubation period: Months to years
Transmission- Excreted in saliva or transplancental
Direct - grooming, bites
The primary differential diagnosis for FeLV is FIV
Briefly explain the pathophysiology FeLV
Transmission - Direct contact with infected feline through saliva, body fluids, urine and faeces
Virus replicates in the lymphoid tissue and enters lymphocytes and monocytes
Transported around the body where it then eventually enters the bone marrow
In some cats, persistent infection with the virus can lead to immune suppression, neoplasia or anaemia
Outcome is variable – depends on many factors, including cats immune response
Describe clinical signs that may be seen in this patient and explain the reason for each sign - FeLV
Immunosuppression
Recurrent infections
Anaemia
Tumour development eg lymphoma, leukaemias
Lethargy
Diarrhoea
Guarded diagnosis, most die within 3-4yrs of diagnosis
Select TWO diagnostic techniques available for the diagnosis of this condition and
Describe each technique & Explain the rationale for the selection of that technique - FeLV
SNAP ELISA for serum antigen, patient side rapid result, in a healthy patient any positive test should be repeated in 12 weeks! (may rid themselves of virus)
PCR – isolation of viral genetic material to confirm where the ELISA result is questionable, sent to external lab
Virus isolation – not commonly done gets sent to external lab
Describe the aetiology of Feline Upper Respiratory Disease (FURD)
Aetiology: Can be caused by a number of agents:
Feline Herpesvirus type 1 (FHV-1)
Feline Calicivirus (FCV)
Bordetella bronchiseptica
Chlamydophila felis
Briefly explain the pathophysiology of FURD
Transmission -
Transmission:
Direct contact with an infected animal
Inhalation/aerosol – spread by sneezing
Indirect contact with contaminated fomites
FHV-1 persists for approx. 18 hours in the environment. FCV 1 persist for a week
Most FHV-1 patients become carriers, with intermittent shedding after stressful episodes (1-10 days)
Some cats become FCV carriers (most stop within a year) and excrete the virus continually via oro-nasal secretions
Replicates in the tissues of the upper respiratory tract and ocular systems -> epithelial necrosis
Irritation to the pharynx, larynx and trachea
Rare signs: reproductive and dermatological signs
Secondary bacterial infections common as result of damage
Describe clinical signs that may be seen in this patient and explain the reason for each sign FURD
Anorexia
Pyrexia
Depression
Sneezing
Conjunctivitis
Hypersalivation
Select TWO diagnostic techniques available for the diagnosis of this condition and
Describe each technique & Explain the rationale for the selection of that technique
FURD
Often based on history (unvaccinated) and clinical signs
Swab taken from oropharyngeal area to isolate causative agents (may be negative in carrier cats)
Describe the aetiology of Gastric Dilatation and Volvulus (GDV)
Not completely understood
Large breed dogs, deep chested dogs commonly effected.
Great Danes, Weimaraner’s, St Bernard and English Setters .
Some increased incidence if relatives have had GDV.
Fed once daily or history of recent large meal.
Exercise immediately before or after feeding. (Possible associated with dry food)
Briefly explain the pathophysiology of GDV
Stomach dilates and rotates into a twisted position where upon gas cannot escape.
Distension of the stomach fills the abdominal cavity putting pressure on the caudal vena cava and disrupting venous return to the heart.
Pressure on diaphragm may compromise breathing leading to poor ventilation and damage to body tissues.
Necrosis of gastric wall/splenic tissue can occur due to distruptioon of blood supply to these areas
Describe clinical signs that may be seen in this patient and explain the reason for each sign GDV
Restlessness
Retching
Anterior abdominal swelling*
Dyspnoea
Collapse
Shock
Death
*note that in very large breeds swelling of the stomach may not be obvious as the stomach lies under the ribs
Select TWO diagnostic techniques available for the diagnosis of this condition and
Describe each technique & Explain the rationale for the selection of that technique GDV
Based on presenting signs and a high index of suspicion in large deep chested dogs
History and clincial signs
Tympany of abdomen
X-rays to confirm existance of bloat and may be suggestive of torsion
Nature and extent confirmed at surgery
Describe the aetiology of Hyperthyroidism
Functional thyroid tumour
Usually benign adenomatous hyperplasia (rarely cancerous) of the thyroid gland
May affect one or both lobes (also ectopic tissue)
Inciting cause theorised but unknown
Briefly explain the pathophysiology of Hyperthiroidsm
Affected gland overproduces thyroxine
This leads to a hypermetabolic state
As thyroxine affects a number of body tissues there are a wide range of clinical signs seen
Complications such as hypertension and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy may occur
Describe clinical signs that may be seen in this patient and explain the reason for each sign - Hyperthyroidism
Polyphagia
Weight loss
Hyperactive/aggressive or restless
Tachycardia
Vomiting and diarrhoea
Poor coat/unkempt
Polydipsia
Select TWO diagnostic techniques available for the diagnosis of this condition and
describe each technique & Explain the rationale for the selection of that technique.
- Hyperthyriodism
History and clinical signs including physical examination which may confirm a goitre
Blood test – high T4 levels confirm diagnosis, can be done in practice
Scintigraphy – imaging using radioisotopes, referral required, can help identify ectopic thyroid tissue too
Evaluation of cardiac function eg. Ultrasound is recommended in case of concurrent HCM
Describe the aetiology of Hyperadrenocorticism
Also termed Cushing’s Syndrome/Disease
Increased blood cortisol levels
Middle-aged to older dogs, rare in cats
Aetiology;
Caused by either
Pituitary tumour – increased production of ACTH (most common)
Adrenal tumour – direct increase of cortisol
Both lead to increased serum cortisol
Briefly explain the pathophysiology of Hyperadrenocorticism
Overactive tissue in pituitary or adrenal gland leads to increased production of cortisol
High levels of cortisol lead to hyperglycaemia and inhibit ADH – leading to PUPD
High cortisol also causes protein catabolism leading to muscle wasting and poor wound healing
Cortisol affects hair growth and distribution of fat
Describe clinical signs that may be seen in this patient and explain the reason for each sign - Hyperadrenocorticism
Polyuria
Polydipsia
Weight loss
Alopecia (flanks)
Pot bellied
Hepatomegaly
Muscle weakness
Panting
Thinning of the skin
Select TWO diagnostic techniques available for the diagnosis of this condition and describe each technique & Explain the rationale for the selection of that technique.
Hyperadrenocorticism
Imaging – ultrasonography of abdomen or MRI/CT to establish presence of renal or pituitary mass
History and clinical signs may be suggestive (particularly where a range of signs are present) however due to nature of disease diagnosis should be performed prior to starting treatment
ACTH stimulation test –blood at 0 and 1hrs, inj with acth after first blood sample, short stay for patient, generally used for therapeutic monitoring rather than initial diagnosis, sensitive test but not specific
Describe the aetiology of Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
Common in cats
Feline Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM) is a condition that causes the muscular walls of a cat’s heart to thicken, decreasing the heart’s efficiency and sometimes creating symptoms in other parts of the body
Briefly explain the pathophysiology of Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) is a condition affecting the left ventricle. The walls of the ventricle become thick and stiff, interfeing with the relaxation of the heart, the entricles cant fill properly with blood therefore only a small amount of blood is available to pump forward. This results in decreased cardiac output.
Describe clinical signs that may be seen in this patient and explain the reason for each sign - Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
Dyspnoea and tachypnoea
Tachycardia and a gallop rhythm
Heart murmer
Select TWO diagnostic techniques available for the diagnosis of this condition and describe each technique & Explain the rationale for the selection of that technique. - Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
Echocardiography, blood tests for hyperthyroidism and renal function
Describe the aetiology of IMHA (Immune Mediated Haemolytic Anaemia)
IMHA is a disease where the body’s immine system destroys its own RBC.
This leads to anaemia and poor oxygen delivery to multiple organs such as the kidneys, liver and brain.
Dogs and cats are effected by this condition
Briefly explain the pathophysiology of Immune Mediated Haemolytic Anaemia
IMHA in dogs and cats can be triggered by different factors including infectious organisms, tumours and even drugs.
Can be idiopathic
Describe clinical signs that may be seen in this patient and explain the reason for each sign - Immune Mediated Haemolytic Anaemia
Can have mild symptoms like lethargy
Yellow tinge in eyes, mouth or skin this is due to staining of the mucous membranes with bilirubin whihc gets released into the circulation when large numbers of RBCs are destroyed
Select TWO diagnostic techniques available for the diagnosis of this condition and describe each technique & Explain the rationale for the selection of that technique.
Immune Mediated Haemolytic Anaemia (IMHA)
Clinical signs, blood tests and examination of a blood smear
X-rays and abdominal ultrasound can check for infectious organisms
Describe the aetiology of Keratoconjunctivitis sicca
KCS also known as dry eye is a reduction in aquenous tear production from the lacrimal and third eyelid gland results in an overproduction of mucus as an attempt to keep the cornea moist
Briefly explain the pathophysiology of Keratoconjuctiviris sicca
Condition is most commonly immune mediated but may also br caused by drug toxicity
Describe clinical signs that may be seen in this patient and explain the reason for each sign - Keratoconjunctivitis sicca
Vascularisation and ulceration
Recurrent conjunctivitis
Mucoid discharge on and around the surface of the eye
Select TWO diagnostic techniques available for the diagnosis of this condition and describe each technique & Explain the rationale for the selection of that technique.
- Keratoconjunctivitis sicca
A schirmer tear test will show insuffcient tear production this test should be repeated
Describe the aetiology of Laryngeal paralysis
Common cause of dyspnoea in older large-breed dogs, it is a diease which causes difficulty breathing
Briefly explain the pathophysiology of Laryngeal Paralysis
The muscles that hold the larynx open during inspiration become paralysed and the larynx collapses as the dog tries to breathe in
Describe clinical signs that may be seen in this patient and explain the reason for each sign - Laryngeal paralysis
Marked dsponea, stridor (audible whistling noise) on inspiration
Cyanosis and hyperthermia
Select TWO diagnostic techniques available for the diagnosis of this condition and describe each technique & Explain the rationale for the selection of that technique.
- Laryngeal paralysis
Clinical history and physical examination
Laryngoscopy under a light plane of anaesthesia is confirmatory
Describe the aetiology of a Mast Cell Tumour
Neoplasia affecting the histiocytes (Mast cells)
Certain breeds are predisposed
Different grades of tumour from benign to highly malignant
Briefly explain the pathophysiology of a Mast Cell Tumour
Mast cells undergo malignant transformation, behaviour varies between grades
Degranulation of mast cells in the tumour can lead to systemic signs
Often skin tumours
Describe clinical signs that may be seen in this patient and explain the reason for each sign - Mast Cell Tumour
Some can occur in the subcutaneous layer
Higher grade masses/histamine release have association with swelling, inflammation and ulceration
Select TWO diagnostic techniques available for the diagnosis of this condition and describe each technique & Explain the rationale for the selection of that technique.
- Mast Cell Tumour
Biopsy - assess grade can be incisional or excisiomal
Detection of mets by either radiography with CT or MRI
Evaluation of local lymph nodes to assist with grading
Describe the aetiology of Mitral Valve disease
The mitral valve undergoes degnerative change, thickening and becoming floppier. Can be inherited or genetic in some breeds. Can be associated with a heart murmer and more commonly seen in older smaller breed dogs
Briefly explain the pathophysiology of mitral valve disease
Changes to the mitral valve results in the valve leaking, producing a murmer and making harder for the heart to pump blood round the body. Condition usually worsens and can eventually lead to heart failure
Describe clinical signs that may be seen in this patient and explain the reason for each sign - mitral valve diease
Collapse/fainting
Coughing
Heart murmer
Weight loss
Select TWO diagnostic techniques available for the diagnosis of this condition and describe each technique & Explain the rationale for the selection of that technique. - Mitral valve disease
ECG to evaluate heart rhythm
Blood pressure checks to show if heart muscle is under pressue
X-rays to show if there is any fluid in the lungs as this is a common complcation of heart disease and to show if the patinets hearthas changed in size
Describe the aetiology of osteoarthiritis
Common cause of lameness
Can develop as a result of underlyinig deformity or trauma eg cruciate rupture, fracture etc
Briefly explain the pathophysiology of osteoarthirits
Characterised by degenaration of articular cartilage often assiciated with the formation of new bone at joint surface, may have a gradual onset but may also occur acutely
Osteoarthiritis can be a primart disease of joint cartilage but it is often more secondary to abnormla stresses on joints
Describe clinical signs that may be seen in this patient and explain the reason for each sign - osteoarthiritis
Stiffness/lameness which is worse after rest, more commonly seen is dogs
Reluctant to jump up/climb
Reduced ROM of affected joiny
Alteration to gait
Muscle atrophy in affected limb(S)
Describe the aetiology of osteosarcoma
Primary malignant neoplasm of bone tissue
Large breeds are most commonly affected as well as middle aged/older dogs
Briefly explain the pathophysiology of an osteosarcoma
Osteocyres undergo maliganant tranformation leading to the formation of swelling or boney growth and destruction of bone architectrue
Damage to bone tissue may lead to weak bones and pathological fracture
Metastasis often occurs
Usually found in the metaphysis of long bones
Describe clinical signs that may be seen in this patient and explain the reason for each sign - Osteosarcoma
Lameness, due to pain/deformity of limb
Swelling of site, due to infiltration of eoplastic tissue
Pathological fracture, due to weaking of the bone
Coughing, may be seen due to secondary spread
Select TWO diagnostic techniques available for the diagnosis of this condition and describe each technique & Explain the rationale for the selection of that technique.
- Osteosarcoma
Biopsy, provides difinitive diagnosis
radiography, limbs and bones and x-ray lung fields to check for metasatis which may be suggestive of osteosarcs however not difinitive
MRI/CT for the above reasons but may need refferal
Describe the aetiology of Pancreatitis
Often idiopathic but can be linked to:
A high fat diet
Some druges, eg. corticisterioids
Can occur secondary to trauma or certain toxins
Acute in dogs
Chronic in cats - Irritable Bowel Disease, can lead to EPI or diabetes mellitus
Briefly explain the pathophysiology of pancreatitis
1) Pancreatic enzymes are activated prematurely within the pancrease or are unable to exit into the duodenum
2) The presence of these enzymes within pancreatic tissue results in auto-digestion of the pancreatic tissue
3)This process causes inflammation and nercrosis of pancreas
Describe clinical signs that may be seen in this patient and explain the reason for each sign - pancreatitis
Acute - anterior abdominal pain (praying position), omiting, depression, shock, pyrexia, dehydration, anorexia
Chronic - more vague and variable
Select TWO diagnostic techniques available for the diagnosis of this condition and describe each technique & Explain the rationale for the selection of that technique
- pancreatitis
1) History, clinical signs and clinical examination
2) CPL test for dogs, FPL for cats
- blood tests measure serum pancreatic lipse which indicates pancreatic damage
3) Trypin - like immunoreactivity (TH), amylase, lipase and blood tests
- this is less specific in cats
Describe the aetiology of parvovirus
CPV-2 common strain
Can be harboured by cats, affects weaned, puppies 8-12 weeks or unvaccinated adults
Transmission- Indirect contact with contaminatined faeces/environment
Direct contact with an animal
Briefly explain the pathophysiology of parvovirus
Affects the rapidly dividing cells in the gut wall and lymphiod tissue e.g bone marrow - this supresses immune response
Multiplies in small intestine crypt lining cells - destroys lining so can’t absorb nutrients
Sever cases - severe comprimie of intesting resulting in bacterial invasion into the bloodsteam
Describe clinical signs that may be seen in this patient and explain the reason for each sign - parvovirus
depression, anorexia, severe weight loss, dehydration, haemorrhage, shock of endotoxis cross gut wall
Select TWO diagnostic techniques available for the diagnosis of this condition and describe each technique & Explain the rationale for the selection of that technique.
- Parvovirus
History andClinical signs
Faecal tesitng, ELISA detectd CPV-2 antigen, some flase negatives
Faecal PCR detects CPV-2 DNA
Post mortem
Serum anitibody
Describe the aetiology of a pyometra
Bacterial infection of the uterus, often involving E.coli
Common in unspayed older bitches who have had several seasons
May have history of hormone therapy for mismating/heat suppression
Briefly explain the pathophysiology of a pyometra
Cystic changes in the uterus, CEH - cystic endometral hyperplasisa and bacterial infection occuring during the oestrous phase
Open cervix allows entry of bacteria into the uterus
Large accumulation of pus due to immune respone of phagocytes
Bacterial toxins enter the bloodstream leading to toxaemia
Describe clinical signs that may be seen in this patient and explain the reason for each sign - pyometra
Vomiting, pyrexia, anorexia, depression, vaginal discharge- mucopurulent, distended abdomen
Select TWO diagnostic techniques available for the diagnosis of this condition and describe each technique & Explain the rationale for the selection of that technique. - Pyometra
History post season and clinical signs
Dischrage and evidence of enlarged abdomen
Radiography - can indicate enlarged uterus
Ultrasoun - confirms presence of distended uterus and visualisation of uterin lining
Bloods - haematology leucocyte cound indicates infection
Describe the aetiology of tracheal collapse
Exact cause is unclear
Combination of - genetics, nutrition, allergic triggers
Briefly explain the pathophysiology of tracheal collapse
Teacheal cartilage is weakened or incompletely formed
Unable to maintian a patent trachea
During inspiratio, cervical portion of trachea collapses leading to airway obstruction
Thoracic portion collapses during expiration
Describe clinical signs that may be seen in this patient and explain the reason for each sign - tracheal collapse
Coughing at exercise
Geese honk
Respiratory disress
Concurrent disease, heart, cushings, other respiratory disease
Select TWO diagnostic techniques available for the diagnosis of this condition and describe each technique & Explain the rationale for the selection of that technique.- tracheal collapse
1) History and clinical signs
2) Consider breed
3) Endoscopy (Broncoscopy) of trachea - graded on severity
4) Chest radiography however less reliable
Describe the aetiology of urolithiasis/feline lower urinary tract disease
idiopathic cystitis
urolithiasis (stones)
crystals (ureathral plug)
infecton - very rare
muti cat household, stress can trigger
underactive, overweight, neutered cats
Briefly explain the pathophysiology of urolithiasis/feline lower urinary tract disease
1) Irratation/inflammation of the bladder wall, urethra, may result in recurrent cystitis
2) Urolithis/ urethral plags may cayse urinary obstructuon- complete obstruction is an emergency
3) Trauma damage may result in bladder wall dysfunction or rupture of the urinary tract
Inability to void urine leads to azotaemia and can be associated with accute renal failure
Describe THREE clinical signs that may be seen in this patient and explain the reason for each sign urolithiasis/feline lower urinary tract disease
cystitis, pollakuria, dysuria, haematuria
pain
blockage, oliguria, anuria
incontinece
varying frequency/volume of urine
licking external genitalia
anorexia and dyhyrdation
depression
Select TWO diagnostic techniques available for the diagnosis of this condition and describe each technique & Explain the rationale for the selection of that technique.
urolithiasis/feline lower urinary tract disease
1) History and clincical signs
2) observation micturition
3) Neuro examinaion
4) Urinalysis and bloods
5) Radiography and ultrasound
Describe the aetiology of wobblers
Complex- some genetic compoment
Large dog breeds predisposed - great danes and dobermans
Nutrional factors may play a role - protien
Briefly explain the pathophysiology of wobblers
Narrowing of the cervical vertebral canal due to developmental abnormalites of vertabrae (young dogs)
Degenarative changes can occur in older dogs leading to narrowing of the cervical vertebral canal
Narrowed canal impinges upon the spinal cord causing compression and thus resulting in a neurological deficit
Describe THREE clinical signs that may be seen in this patient and explain the reason for each sign - wobblers
Inco-ordinated gait - ataxia
Pelvic limbs wear, may scruff nails
Look wobbly,
Neck pain
May lead to paralysis
Grading scale
Select TWO diagnostic techniques available for the diagnosis of this condition and describe each technique & Explain the rationale for the selection of that technique. - Wobblers
History and clinical signs may lead to suspicion particularly in affected breeds
physical examination - full neurological exam
Radiography and mylography, CSF analysis and MRI would provide difnitive diagnosis
Select TWO diagnostic techniques available for the diagnosis of this condition and describe each technique & Explain the rationale for the selection of that technique - Osteoarthiritis
Physical examinaton orientated towards affected joint or joints, palpating the limbs and joints to assess for painful respon, thicking of the joint capsule, accumulation of joint fluid (effusion) or sometimes muscle atrophy
MRI can provide information regarding soft tissue structures (and CT is good for assessing bone structural changes in joints with more complex anatomy such as elbow, carpi or tarsi
