Neurological Diseases

Question 1

What is the aetiology of Epilepsy?

Answer 1

Usually idiopathic

Genetic link suspected in medium sized dogs. e.g. border collie.

Question 2

What is the pathophysiology of Epilepsy?

Answer 2

Disruption of the coordination of neurological signals in the forebrain; Disordered electrical activities of brain cells. Imbalance in excitatory and inhibitory signals.
Can be partial (cats) or generalised (dogs) depending on how much of cerebrum is involved

Question 3

Name the 3 phases of epilepsy

Answer 3

Pre-ictal (uneasy), Ictal (tonic and clonic spasms) and Post-ictal (tired and disorientated)

Question 4

What is prolonged seizing known as?

Answer 4

Status epilepticus

Question 5

How is epilepsy diagnosed?

Answer 5

History and Clinical Signs (check no exposure to toxins)
Physical and Neuro exam
Blood test for infection, toxicity
Imaging - MRI/CT
CSF tap - look for tumours, wbcs, infectious agents

Question 6

What is the aetiology, pathophysiology, clinical signs and diagnosis of Wobbler’ syndrome?

Answer 6

Genetic component and Nutritional Role - Often large breed dogs.
Compression of spinal cord due to narrowed canal due to malformation of vertebrae in young dogs or degenerative changes in older dogs
CS = weak pelvic limbs, incoordination, wobbliness, neck pain
Diagnosis = myelography, imaging (MRI), neuro exam, CSF tap.