Topic 41 - Examination of the nervous system (history, materials and methods, general considerations). Flashcards
Examination methods for nervous system:
- History!! very important in nervous cases
- Inspection
- Palpation: first without causing pain, then to find the pain
Additional examination for nervous examination:
X-ray
CT, MRI
Electromyography
Electroencephalography
Laboratory examinations
Questions to ask for in “history”:
- What is the problem/symptoms?
- When did it start?
- Constant or periodic?
- Did it change in time?
- Environmental conditions
- vaccination status
parameters to observe when inspecting the animal:
- First without the dog moving: body posture, head position, eye position and movement, consciousness
- Then when the dog is moving: walk, turn and sit + stand
Palpation paramters for nervous examination:
symmetry
muscle atrophy
crepitation
fracture
Check the postural reactions, spinal reflexes and cranial nerves
Check the sensitivity of skin and mucous membranes
What is the goal of a physical examination of the nervous system?
To locate the problem
If it is neurologic, orthopaedic, toxic
Minimal necessary instruments you need for a nervous system examination?
Reflex hammer
Penlight
Arterial clamp, needle
When is X-ray done in case of nervous system examination?
Often done as the first thing, but often it is not enough
What is myelography in case of nervous system examination?
Special X-ray procedure
- Contrast agent is injected into the subarachnoid space
The goal is to demonstrate compression of the spinal cord
Indications for CT for nervous system:
brain or other structures of the
head, spine, thoracic imaging
Can also be done with contrast
What is electroencephalography?
surface recording of the electrical activity of the cerebral
hemispheres
What is electromyography?
records the electrical activity of muscles
Abnormal head positions:
- Head tilt
- Lateral head tilting
- Extended (opisthotonus)
- Weakness (paresis) of neck muscles
- Neck pain
