Complex partial seizures. Behavioral epilepsy

One of the most frustrating problems for veterinarians is the animal with a recurring behavioral disorder that is apparently a seizure disorder. Similar human disorders have been shown to be caused, in most cases, by organic disease in the cerebrum. There are reports in the veterinary literature that appear to support the same theory; however, there is no well-designed study with adequate animal numbers that proves the syndromes to be the same as in human medicine. It is clear that much research needs to be done. Diagnostic work up should be done meticulously, with emphasis on looking for intracranial disease. Treatment with phenobarbital is recommended to control the seizures, although the results will be variable.