|  | 
Epilepsy refers to a seizure disturbance that is not associated with an active, underlying disease process in the brain. The condition can be congenital and idiopathic (unknown cause), or acquired. Congenital conditions, which usually exist at birth, are normally evident before three to five years of age. Acquired epilepsy can occur at any age, especially if associated with trauma or other brain injury (e.g. stroke). In an older dog there are other considerations for seizures, including metabolic problems, hormonal imbalance, and infectious, inflammatory, or cancerous conditions of the brain. Epilepsy is usually a clinical diagnosis; other conditions must be excluded, as there is no simple test that verifies epilepsy.
Idiopathic epilepsy is the most common cause of seizures in dogs. Dogs suffering from this condition are normal between seizures, and no specific underlying cause can be determined. Idiopathic epilepsy is inherited in breeds such as the German shepherd, beagle, dachshund, Keeshond, and Belgian Tervuren. However, all breeds, including mixed-breeds and cats, can have epilepsy.
If epileptic seizures are occurring more than every four to six weeks, lasting longer than one to two minutes, or occurring in multiples (clusters), then treatment is indicated. Phenobarbital is the drug most frequently prescribed. It is inexpensive, relatively safe when used with appropriate monitoring, and effective as a single agent in about 80 percent of epileptic patients. Typical side effects include increased thirst, urination, and appetite, as well as sedation and incoordination. Some of the side effects may subside as the body adjusts to chronic administration of the barbiturate drug. The drug must be used consistently, and at appropriate levels, to be helpful. Levels in the blood stream can be measured to minimize the chance of toxicity and maximize optimal results.
Sometimes the use of an additional medication called potassium bromide is helpful in dogs with poorly controlled seizures. It generally works well with phenobarbital in controlling seizures, or it may be used alone in dogs that do not tolerate phenobarbital.
If there is no underlying brain disorder, and the dog responds well to treatment, then the dog may lead a relatively normal life. Seizures rarely cause death. Unfortunately, some patients are euthanized because of difficulty with seizure control and the profound emotional impact the seizing pet can have on the household.
If a dog does not respond well to prescribed treatments and/or begins to display other neurological signs between seizures, then you may need to speak with your veterinarian about possible referral to a veterinary specialist in neurology or internal medicine who may offer additional diagnostic or treatment options. |