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Methods for ECG Evaluation of Indicators of Cardiac Risk, and Susceptibility to Aconitine-induced Arrhythmias in Rats Following Status Epilepticus
Published on: April 5, 2011
Canine status epilepticus due to acute intoxication
R Zimmermann1, T A Steinberg, K Raith
1PD Dr. Andrea Fischer, Medizinische Kleintierklinik, Abteilung für Neurologie, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Veterinärstraße 13, 80539 München,
Tierarztliche Praxis. Ausgabe K, Kleintiere/Heimtiere
|January 5, 2012
Summary
Dogs experiencing status epilepticus (SE) from acute poisoning can survive and remain seizure-free with proper veterinary care. This study identified common and uncommon toxins causing SE in dogs, highlighting a high survival rate.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Neurology
- Toxicology
- Internal Medicine
Background:
- Status epilepticus (SE) in dogs can be a life-threatening emergency.
- Acute poisoning is a potential cause of SE in canine patients.
- Identifying the specific toxin is crucial for effective treatment and prognosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize the types of toxins causing SE in dogs.
- To describe the clinical presentation and outcomes of dogs with SE due to acute poisoning.
- To evaluate the survival rate and long-term prognosis for these cases.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective case series analysis of canine medical records.
- Inclusion criteria: dogs presenting with SE due to acute intoxication.
- Toxicological analysis, including gas chromatography/mass spectrometry, was performed where applicable.
Main Results:
- Fourteen dogs with SE from acute poisoning were identified.
- Detected toxins included carbofuran, crimidine, paraoxone, metaldehyde, strychnine, and diazinon; other cases involved zinc phosphide or metaldehyde.
- The survival rate was 85.7%, with no recurrence of seizures post-discharge after a median follow-up of 2.6 years.
Conclusions:
- Acute poisoning should be considered in dogs presenting with SE, even with an unremarkable history.
- Prompt and adequate management can lead to a high survival rate.
- Veterinarians should maintain awareness of both common and uncommon intoxicants.
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