Epilepsy is a syndrome where there are recurrent seizures. It ca be
caused by an inherited functional problem of the brain (idiopathic
epilepsy) or can be the result of trauma to the brain that causes
residual brain damage (acquired epilepsy).
Most seizure disorders on cats have an underlying cause, such as
tumours, inflammation or metabolic disease.
What is the most commpn form of
Epilepsy?
Idiopathic epilepsy is the most common form for dogs. Affected dogs
will have repeated episodes of seizures with no demonstrable cause.
In between seizures, the dogs are normal or may go through a phase
where they are a little quiet or vague. This vagueness usually does
not last long, but can be different for each individual. With
idiopathic epilepsy the onset of seizures usually starts between 6
and 3 years of age. In most breeds, the younger the age of onset,
the more difficult the seizures are to control. For acquired
epilepsy, the time of onset is usually between 6 months and 3 years
after the causing event. Sometimes is it is impossible to determine
the cause.
The seizures generally seen with idiopathic epilepsy are usually
about 1-2 minutes duration and are called tonic-clonic, where
muscles contract and relax. Some dogs may have a more generalised
type of seizure where they have uncontrollable trembling or muscle
rigidity. Seizures due to idiopathic epilepsy recur at regular
intervals, with weeks or months inbetween. As the dogs age, seizures
can occur more frequently or can occur in groups or clusters.
How is Epilepsy diagnosed and treated?
A physical and neurological examination, along with the results of a
complete blood count and general health screen blood results are
normal in animals with idiopathic epilepsy. Further testing, such as
cerebro-spinal fluid (CSF) analysis or radiographs may be indicated
if there are any abnormalities detected on routine tests or if the
disorder seems to be progressing.
Anticonvulsant therapy is the only treatment for idiopathic or
acquired epilepsy. Sometimes treatment does not eliminate the
seizures altogether, but decreases their severity, duration and
increases the time inbetween seizures. Prior to anticonvulsant
therapy, other causes of seizures do need to be ruled out, these can
include meningitis, metabolic diseases such as hyper- and hypo-adrenocorticism,
diabetes and even heart disease can cause fainting episodes similar
to mild seizures.
