SEIZURES IN DOGS .1. CLASSIFICATION, SYMPTOMS AND DIAGNOSIS

Seizures may be caused by extracerebral, intracerebral or idiopathic diseases, which lead to metabolic and/or functional changes of the brain. Additional neurological deficits including signs of cerebral dysfunction such as decreased postural reactions or blindness, may be seen. Seizures may be divided clinically in either focal or generalized types. In the dog the idiopathic epilepsy with Grand-mal seizures is the most common cause for seizure disorders. The work-up includes signalement, history, clinical and neurological examination. Ancillary investigations include analysis of blood, urine, cerebrospinal fluid and electroencephalography. In some patients radiograpy, ultrasound and computed tomography may be necessary. The results enable the clinician to rule out or rule in the differential diagnosis and to assess the final diagnosis.