Veterian Key

2 The neurological examination Examination of nervous system function is achieved by observation, palpation and inducing reflexes and responses. The following section will explain the significance of the tests and…

3 Localizing lesions William of Occam (died circa 1350) pioneered the KISS (‘Keep It Simple, Stupid!’) approach to problem-solving with his philosophical principle that the fewest possible assumptions are to…

47 Ataxia Spinal ataxia INITIAL PRESENTATION In spinal cord disease, the ascending proprioceptive tracts may be affected before the descending motor tracts resulting in ataxia as the presenting sign. Damage…

72 Scratching INTRODUCTION Biting, scratching, chewing and auto-amputation of digits are rare but can occur with sensory neuropathies (Fig. 72.1). Cauda equina compression in dogs may result in self-mutilation of…

63 Tetanus INTRODUCTION Tetanus is the disease produced by the Clostridium tetani toxin tetanospasmin within the CNS where it prevents inhibitory interneurons from releasing glycine and GABA. Uninhibited continuous muscular…

41 UMN Intervertebral disc disease INITIAL PRESENTATION • Pain • Proprioception deficits • Paresis/paralysis. INTRODUCTION The anulus fibrosis of the intervertebral disc may rupture or bulge, and compress the adjacent…

56 Collapse INTRODUCTION Sudden onset of collapse is a common presenting sign in small animal practice but not all such animals are afflicted with neurological disease. Physical examination, haematology and…

75 Leaks, dribbles urine INTRODUCTION Leaking or dribbling urine is a passive action and urine is found where the animal has been sitting or lying and may occur as the…

70 Meningitis of large breed dogs INITIAL PRESENTATION Acute onset of neck pain, fever, lethargy, reluctance to walk, and a stiff gait. SIGNALMENT A 1-year, 3-month-old male golden retriever dog….

52 Lameness Nerve root tumours INITIAL PRESENTATION Tumours of the peripheral nerve sheath such as schwannomas are slow-growing and typically present as a chronic persistent forelimb lameness lasting months for…