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Neurological Page
Neurological Problems
Seizures can be seen in any dog, any breed. They can be a life threatening condition if they are frequent, prolonged, or severe. Seizures are frequently the result of an underlying condition, and the determination of that underlying condition and correction/treatment of that condition is most paramount. When NO underlying condition can be located for the seizures through extensive testing, once all other causes are ruled out, the diagnosis of Idiopathic Epilepsy is made and the seizures themselves become the primary focus of treatment/control for the life of the dog.
Seizures exist in many forms and severity. They can range from head bobbing, fly snapping, repetitive movements, single or multiple limb twitching, facial twitching, and sudden abnormal personality changes including aggression. The most severe, Grand Mal Seizures, manifest with total body twitching and unconsciousness. This most severe type of seizure is life threatening in itself, and treatment must be immediate to stop these seizures and then locate an underlying cause.
Underlying conditions that can cause seizures are brain tumor, hydrocephalus, brain injury (concussion or contusion), encephalitis, meningitis, strokes, and brain hemorrhage. Metabolic conditions that can cause seizures are thyroid malfunction, blood glucose imbalances, liver and kidney failure. Ingestion/absorption of toxins can result in seizures, and these include chemicals, medications, herbicides, and pesticides. Infectious disease that can cause seizures, Rabies, Distemper, Lyme Disease, Ehrlichiosis, among others. Allergic reactions to vaccinations have been demonstrated to cause seizures and death with extreme reactions.
Once severe seizures are controlled, the search for an underlying cause is undertaken. Starting with a complete neurological and physical exam, tests would include, but not be limited to, complete blood count, liver, kidney, thyroid function tests, blood toxin screening, brain x-ray, EEG, MRI or CAT Scan, and Spinal Fluid analysis. The examiner will need a detailed history of the activities of the dog, food, shots, pesticide application/treatment, travel, and any recent stressful events, within seven days prior to the seizure activity developing. Whenever possible a neurological specialist is recommended.
When all of the above conditions have been ruled out for the cause of the seizure activity, Idiopathic Epilepsy is diagnosed. This is familial, and felt to be an inherited syndrome. Mode of inheritance is felt to be different in different breeds, with some being recessive, and some dominant. IF your dog is diagnosed with Idiopathic Epilepsy, please refer to the University of Missouri research program for inclusion into their study.
More detailed Epilepsy information here.