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Paresis in all four limbs.
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About.com Video (MRI)
video
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About.com Videos: Botulism
Please Note: The About.com health videos describe topics specific to the human patient, not the veterinary patient (e.g. number of vertebrae in the spine, details about diagnostic testing, etc.). However, these videos are being linked because they do present good overviews of certain topics applicable to veterinary neurology. All the About.com health video links are listed in the Links section of the vetneuro.com website. -If necessary, enlarge new window by dragging bottom right corner. ►click here to watch video-link provided by: www.about.com
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About.com Videos: Computed Tomography
Please Note: The About.com health videos describe topics specific to the human patient, not the veterinary patient (e.g. number of vertebrae in the spine, details about diagnostic testing, etc.). However, these videos are being linked because they do present good overviews of certain topics applicable to veterinary neurology. All the About.com health video links are listed in the Links section of the vetneuro.com website. -If necessary, enlarge new window by dragging bottom right corner. ►click here to watch video-link provided by: www.about.com
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About.com Videos: Corticosteroids
Please Note: The About.com health videos describe topics specific to the human patient, not the veterinary patient (e.g. number of vertebrae in the spine, details about diagnostic testing, etc.). However, these videos are being linked because they do present good overviews of certain topics applicable to veterinary neurology. All the About.com health video links are listed in the Links section of the vetneuro.com website. -If necessary, enlarge new window by dragging bottom right corner. ►click here to watch video-link provided by: www.about.com
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About.com Videos: Deafness
Please Note: The About.com health videos describe topics specific to the human patient, not the veterinary patient (e.g. number of vertebrae in the spine, details about diagnostic testing, etc.). However, these videos are being linked because they do present good overviews of certain topics applicable to veterinary neurology. All the About.com health video links are listed in the Links section of the vetneuro.com website. -If necessary, enlarge new window by dragging bottom right corner. ►click here to watch video-link provided by: www.about.com
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About.com Videos: Diabetic Neuropathy
Please Note: The About.com health videos describe topics specific to the human patient, not the veterinary patient (e.g. number of vertebrae in the spine, details about diagnostic testing, etc.). However, these videos are being linked because they do present good overviews of certain topics applicable to veterinary neurology. All the About.com health video links are listed in the Links section of the vetneuro.com website. -If necessary, enlarge new window by dragging bottom right corner. ►click here to watch video-link provided by: www.about.com
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About.com Videos: Diagnostic Testing
Please Note: The About.com health videos describe topics specific to the human patient, not the veterinary patient (e.g. number of vertebrae in the spine, details about diagnostic testing, etc.). However, these videos are being linked because they do present good overviews of certain topics applicable to veterinary neurology. All the About.com health video links are listed in the Links section of the vetneuro.com website. -If necessary, enlarge new window by dragging bottom right corner. ►click here to watch video-link provided by: www.about.com
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About.com Videos: Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG)
Please Note: The About.com health videos describe topics specific to the human patient, not the veterinary patient (e.g. number of vertebrae in the spine, details about diagnostic testing, etc.). However, these videos are being linked because they do present good overviews of certain topics applicable to veterinary neurology. All the About.com health video links are listed in the Links section of the vetneuro.com website. -If necessary, enlarge new window by dragging bottom right corner. ►click here to watch video-link provided by: www.about.com
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About.com Videos: Electrodiagnostics
Please Note: The About.com health videos describe topics specific to the human patient, not the veterinary patient (e.g. number of vertebrae in the spine, details about diagnostic testing, etc.). However, these videos are being linked because they do present good overviews of certain topics applicable to veterinary neurology. All the About.com health video links are listed in the Links section of the vetneuro.com website. -If necessary, enlarge new window by dragging bottom right corner. ►click here to watch video-link provided by: www.about.com
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About.com Videos: Epilepsy
Please Note: The About.com health videos describe topics specific to the human patient, not the veterinary patient (e.g. number of vertebrae in the spine, details about diagnostic testing, etc.). However, these videos are being linked because they do present good overviews of certain topics applicable to veterinary neurology. All the About.com health video links are listed in the Links section of the vetneuro.com website. -If necessary, enlarge new window by dragging bottom right corner. ►click here to watch video-link provided by: www.about.com
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About.com Videos: Heart
Please Note: The About.com health videos describe topics specific to the human patient, not the veterinary patient (e.g. number of vertebrae in the spine, details about diagnostic testing, etc.). However, these videos are being linked because they do present good overviews of certain topics applicable to veterinary neurology. All the About.com health video links are listed in the Links section of the vetneuro.com website. -If necessary, enlarge new window by dragging bottom right corner. ►click here to watch video-link provided by: www.about.com
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About.com Videos: Heart (Valves)
Please Note: The About.com health videos describe topics specific to the human patient, not the veterinary patient (e.g. number of vertebrae in the spine, details about diagnostic testing, etc.). However, these videos are being linked because they do present good overviews of certain topics applicable to veterinary neurology. All the About.com health video links are listed in the Links section of the vetneuro.com website. -If necessary, enlarge new window by dragging bottom right corner. ►click here to watch video-link provided by: www.about.com
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About.com Videos: Lungs
Please Note: The About.com health videos describe topics specific to the human patient, not the veterinary patient (e.g. number of vertebrae in the spine, details about diagnostic testing, etc.). However, these videos are being linked because they do present good overviews of certain topics applicable to veterinary neurology. All the About.com health video links are listed in the Links section of the vetneuro.com website. -If necessary, enlarge new window by dragging bottom right corner. ►click here to watch video-link provided by: www.about.com
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About.com Videos: Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
Please Note: The About.com health videos describe topics specific to the human patient, not the veterinary patient (e.g. number of vertebrae in the spine, details about diagnostic testing, etc.). However, these videos are being linked because they do present good overviews of certain topics applicable to veterinary neurology. All the About.com health video links are listed in the Links section of the vetneuro.com website. -If necessary, enlarge new window by dragging bottom right corner. ►click here to watch video-link provided by: www.about.com
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About.com Videos: Meningits
Please Note: The About.com health videos describe topics specific to the human patient, not the veterinary patient (e.g. number of vertebrae in the spine, details about diagnostic testing, etc.). However, these videos are being linked because they do present good overviews of certain topics applicable to veterinary neurology. All the About.com health video links are listed in the Links section of the vetneuro.com website. -If necessary, enlarge new window by dragging bottom right corner. ►click here to watch video-link provided by: www.about.com
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About.com Videos: Myelography
Please Note: The About.com health videos describe topics specific to the human patient, not the veterinary patient (e.g. number of vertebrae in the spine, details about diagnostic testing, etc.). However, these videos are being linked because they do present good overviews of certain topics applicable to veterinary neurology. All the About.com health video links are listed in the Links section of the vetneuro.com website. -If necessary, enlarge new window by dragging bottom right corner. ►click here to watch video-link provided by: www.about.com
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About.com Videos: Spinal Tap
Please Note: The About.com health videos describe topics specific to the human patient, not the veterinary patient (e.g. number of vertebrae in the spine, details about diagnostic testing, etc.). However, these videos are being linked because they do present good overviews of certain topics applicable to veterinary neurology. All the About.com health video links are listed in the Links section of the vetneuro.com website. -If necessary, enlarge new window by dragging bottom right corner. ►click here to watch video-link provided by: www.about.com
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About.com Videos: Stenosis
Please Note: The About.com health videos describe topics specific to the human patient, not the veterinary patient (e.g. number of vertebrae in the spine, details about diagnostic testing, etc.). However, these videos are being linked because they do present good overviews of certain topics applicable to veterinary neurology. All the About.com health video links are listed in the Links section of the vetneuro.com website. -If necessary, enlarge new window by dragging bottom right corner. ►click here to watch video-link provided by: www.about.com
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About.com Videos: Stroke
Please Note: The About.com health videos describe topics specific to the human patient, not the veterinary patient (e.g. number of vertebrae in the spine, details about diagnostic testing, etc.). However, these videos are being linked because they do present good overviews of certain topics applicable to veterinary neurology. All the About.com health video links are listed in the Links section of the vetneuro.com website. -If necessary, enlarge new window by dragging bottom right corner. ►click here to watch video-link provided by: www.about.com
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About.com Videos: Thrombus
Please Note: The About.com health videos describe topics specific to the human patient, not the veterinary patient (e.g. number of vertebrae in the spine, details about diagnostic testing, etc.). However, these videos are being linked because they do present good overviews of certain topics applicable to veterinary neurology. All the About.com health video links are listed in the Links section of the vetneuro.com website. -If necessary, enlarge new window by dragging bottom right corner. ►click here to watch video-link provided by: www.about.com
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About.com Videos: x-rays
Please Note: The About.com health videos describe topics specific to the human patient, not the veterinary patient (e.g. number of vertebrae in the spine, details about diagnostic testing, etc.). However, these videos are being linked because they do present good overviews of certain topics applicable to veterinary neurology. All the About.com health video links are listed in the Links section of the vetneuro.com website. -If necessary, enlarge new window by dragging bottom right corner. ►click here to watch video-link provided by: www.about.com
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abducens nerve
Cranial nerve VI; motor neuron controlling the lateral rectus muscles (lateral eye movement) and retractor bulbi muscles (retraction of the eyeball).
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abiotrophy
Premature degeneration of tissues or organs potentially leading to loss of function; applied especially to hereditary diseases of late onset.
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absence seizure
A generalized seizure characterized by a brief loss of conciousness with a specific EEG pattern; uncommon in animals.
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acetylcholine (Ach)
A cholinergic neurotransmitter in the central and autonomic nervous systems; it has many functions, including playing an important role in memory and as a stimulatory neurotransmitter which causes muscles to contract when released from nerves.
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acoustic neuroma
A benign tumor of the myelin forming cells, called Schwann cells, of the vestibulocochlear nerve resulting in hearing loss.
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action potential
The electrical signal which rapidly propagates along the axon of nerve cells as well as over the surface of some muscle and glandular cells and leads to stimulation of desired effect. It is the result of a change in flow of ions across the membrane due to voltage-activated ion channels.
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acute
Having a rapid onset and relatively severe course.
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adenocarcinoma
Malignant tumor derived from glandular tissue.
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adrenal gland
One of the pair of endocrine organs located near the cranial pole of the kidneys. Each is composed of two parts, an outer cortex and an inner medulla. It is primarily involved in production of stress hormones such as cortisol and epinephrine.
►click here to learn more-link provided by: www.merckvetmanual.com
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adrenaline
See epinephrine.
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adrenergic
Activated by, characteristic of, or secreting epinephrine or related substances, particularly referring to the sympathetic nerve fibers that liberate norepinephrine at a synapse when stimulated by a nerve impulse.
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afferent
Sensory pathway proceeding toward the central nervous system from the peripheral receptor organs.
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agent analyzer
A medical device used to measure the inspired and end tidal anesthetic agent (e.g. isoflurane, sevoflurane) concentration of the blood. Infrared light at a particular wavelength is shone through a gas sample and the absorption is proportional to the anesthetic vapor concentration. The end tidal level is very close to the arterial level and it reflects the depth at which a patient is anesthetized.
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albumin
A protein in the blood produced by the liver which is responsible for the maintenance of osmotic (water) pressure in the blood; binds to large molecules in the blood and serves to transport them. Measuring serum albumin levels is a common test in a chemistry panel.
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analgesia
Absence of pain to noxious stimulation.
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anesthesia
Loss of feeling or sensation. Anesthesia is induced and maintained to permit procedures that could be painful (e.g. surgery) and/or to prevent patient movement.
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aneurysm
A sac formed by the weakening and dilation of the wall of an artery, a vein, or the heart.
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anhidrosis
Absence of sweating.
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anisocoria
Unequal pupil size.
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annulus fibrosus
The tough outer fibrous layer which surrounds the nucleus pulposus of the intervertebral disk.
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anomaly
Significant deviation from the normal standard.
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anosmia
Lack of the sense of smell.
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anoxia
Decrease or absence of oxygen to tissue.
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anterior
Toward the the head or front of a structure.
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antibody
A protein produced by the body’s immune system in response to a foreign body (antigen). Each antibody binds specifically with the antigen that triggered its formation and its function is to fight off infection by inactivating the antigen.
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anticonvulsant
An agent which prevents or arrests seizures.
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antigen
Any foreign substance, usually a protein, that stimulates the body’s immune system to produce antibodies. The name antigen reflects its role in the immune response – antibody generating.
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aortic thromboembolism
See thromboembolism.
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apnea
Cessation of breathing.
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arachnoid cyst
A cyst containing cerebrospinal fluid and an outer layer of arachnoidal cells that may develop in this membrane of the brain or spinal cord.
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areflexia
Lack of reflex action.
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arrhythmia
Any variation of the heart's regular rhythmic beating.
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arteritis
Inflammation of an artery.
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arthritis
Inflammation of the joints. See degenerative joint disease.
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arthrogryposis
Persistent flexion of joint(s).
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aspergillosis
Disease caused by any one of the fungal species of the genus Aspergillus and marked by inflammatory granulomatous lesions in the skin, ear, orbit, nasal sinuses, lungs, and sometimes in the bone and nervous tissue.
►click here to learn more-link provided by: www.merckvetmanual.com
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aspiration pneumonia
Difficulty breathing or impaired ventilation due to aspiration (the sucking in of food particles or fluids into the lungs); may or may not be associated with infection (secondary).
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astrocyte
A star-shaped neuroglial cell that plays an important role in neuronal homeostasis and function.
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ataxia
Lack of coordination; usually due to disease of the cerebellum, sensory pathways or vestibular apparatus.
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atlantoaxial
Pertaining to the atlas and the axis: the first and second cervical vertebrae, respectively.
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atlantoaxial subluxation
Partial dislocation caused by instability of the first cervical vertebra (the atlas) and second cervical vertebra (the axis). The lack of stability causes compression of the spinal cord that results in pain and/or paralysis. This condition can be caused by trauma in any dog, but is more often seen as either a congenital or developmental malformation in small breeds.
►click here to learn more-link provided by: University of Pennsylvania, School of Veterinary Medicine
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atonia
Lacking normal muscle tone or strength.
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atrophy
A partial or complete wasting away of a part of the body.
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autoimmune disease
The immune system fails to recognize some part of the body’s cells and tissues, and attacks this unknown part. Autoimmune disease is a subset of immune-mediated disease.
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autonomic
Pertaining to the autonomic nervous system, which controls bodily functions that are not under conscious control (e.g., heartbeat, breathing, sweating).
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avulsion
The tearing away of a part of a structure.
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axon
Long, slender projection from the neuronal cell body that is specialized for the conduction of information encoded in the form of action potentials.
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axonal degeneration
A degenerative process involving the axon and its myelin sheath.
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bacteria
A microscopic single-celled organism lacking a nucleus or any membrane-bound organelles and classified in the kingdom Procaryotae. Although most bacteria are rendered harmless by the body’s immune system or beneficial, some bacteria are infectious and can cause disease.
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benign
Not malignant; does not invade nearby tissue or spread to other parts of the body.
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blastoma
A neoplasm composed of embryonic cells.
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blastomycosis
Disease caused by the fungus, Blastomyces dermatididis. The disease usually results in respiratory infection but can infect other areas such as the eyes, skin, reproductive tract, bones, and central nervous system.
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blindness
Inability to see; can be due to opthalmologic or neurological disorders. Cortical blindness is caused by damage to the visual area of the brain's occipital lobe.
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blood
The fluid that flows through the circulatory system (i.e. heart, arteries, capillaries, and veins) delivering oxygen and nutrients to the body's cells. The main components of blood are plasma (liquid), erythrocytes (red blood cells), leukocytes (white blood cells) and thrombocytes (platelets). A laboratory test, called a complete blood count (CBC), determines the number and type of blood cells present and a blood chemistry panel determines the quantities of various other substances in the plasma.
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blood glucose test
A common test in a chemistry panel which measures the amount of glucose (a type of sugar) in the blood. The test can check for diabetes or hypoglycemia.
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blood pressure monitor
Purpose: Automatic non-invasive measurement of the force exerted by circulating blood on the walls of arteries. Adequate blood pressure is essential to maintain the blood supply and function of vital organs. Measurement of blood pressure is therefore a key part of the monitoring of patients during anaesthesia and critical care. How Works: A single cuff is applied to the patients leg, and the machine inflates it to a level assumed to be greater than systolic pressure (i.e. peak arterial pressure when the ventricles contract). The cuff is deflated gradually. A sensor then measures the tiny oscillations in the pressure of the cuff caused by the pulse. Systolic is taken to be when the pulsations start, mean pressure (i.e. average arterial pressure throughout cardiac cycle) is when they are maximal, and diastolic (i.e. lowest arterial pressure during resting phase) is when they disappear.
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blood-brain barrier (BBB)
A specialized system of capillary endothelial cells as well as certain processes from astrocytes that strictly limits transport into the brain through both physical (tight junctions) and metabolic (enzymes) barriers. Certain microscopic objects (e.g. bacteria, toxins, etc.) are restricted while others essential for brain function (e.g. oxygen, glucose) are allowed to pass.
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botulism
A type of food poisoning caused by a pre-formed neurotoxin (botulin) produced by the growth of the microogranism Clostridium botulinum generally found in improperly canned or preserved foods.
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brachial
Relating to the arm.
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brachial plexus
A collection of nerves in the axilla region (arm pit) which originate from the spinal cord and give rise to the individual nerves that supply the forelimbs.
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bradycardia
Slower than normal heart rate.
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brainstem auditory-evoked response (BAER) test
A test using electrodiagnostic equipment to screen for deafness and evaluate brainstem function.
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brominism
Poisoning caused by the overuse of bromine or a bromine compound (e.g. potassium bromide) marked by such neurological signs as mental dullness, drowsiness, unsteady gait, and skin lesions; also call bromide toxicity or bromism.
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brucellosis
An infectious disease of dogs caused by a bacteria (Brucella canis) primarily affecting the reproductive system.
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bulbar
Pertaining to a rounded mass (bulb); involving the medulla oblongata.
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bulla
A large vessicle; the bony portion of the middle ear.
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calcified disk
An intervertebral disk whose soft, gelatinous center (nucleus pulposus) has hardened and mineralized due to degeneration; see intervertebral disk disease.
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cancer
A tumor whose cells, unlike benign tumor cells, continue to divide uncontrollably, invade normal tissue, and can spread (metastasize) to other parts of the body through the bloodstream and lymphatic system; divided into three broad categories: carcinoma, sarcoma and lymphoma.
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capnograph
Purpose: Instrument used to measure the carbon dioxide (CO2) concentration in exhaled breath and rate of breathing. It is a real time objective assessment of the effectiveness of breathing by directly reflecting the elimination of CO2 by the lungs to an anesthesia device. Indirectly, it reflects the production of CO2 by tissues and the circulatory transport of CO2 to the lungs. How Works: Measures the absorption of infrared light, which is absorbed particularly well by gases of molecules that contain at least two dissimlar atoms, such as carbon dioxide. The amount of infrared radiation absorbed is proportional to the number of CO2 molecules present in a chamber. Carbon dioxide concentration is measured continuously throughout the respiratory cycle to give a graph of expiratory CO2 plotted against time. When expired CO2 is related to expired volume rather than time, the area beneath the curve represents the volume of CO2 in the breath, and thus over the course of a minute, this method can yield the CO2 minute elimination, an important measure of metabolism. If breathing stops, the CO2 monitor will immediately flat line, whereas the pulse oximeter will appear normal for several minutes. Example of Uses: - detemine adequacy of ventilation
- confirm esophageal intubation and endotracheal tube placement
- indicate disconnection from ventilator
- confirm elimination of CO2 from anesthesia circuit and ventilator
- determine respiratory patterns, pulomonary perfusion, alveolar ventilation
- CO2 is also a vasodilator and high levels could further increase intracranial pressure in neurologic patients who already have high intracranial pressure (due to tumor, inflammation, etc.).
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carcinoma
Malignant neoplasia composed of epithelial cells.
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cataplexy
Sudden onset of muscular weakness, often triggered by an emotional stimulus and resulting in falls to the floor; associated with narcolepsy.
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cauda equina syndrome
See lumbosacral stenosis.
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caudal fossa
Cavity in the back part of the skull containing the brainstem and cerebellum.
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caudal occipital malformation syndrome (COMS)
Condition where part of the the cerebellum descends through an opening at the base of the skull, putting pressure on both the cerebellum and spinal cord. Normal cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) flow is disrupted and extreme pressure gradients result in fluid accumulations (hydromyelia and/or syringomyelia) within the spinal cord. Also called Chiari-like malformation.
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cell body
A region of a neuron which contains most of the cytoplasm, the nucleus, and other organelles. It relays impulses from the dendrites to the axon.
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central cord syndrome
Spinal cord injury syndrome associated with damage to the central portion of the spinal cord. It is characterized by bilateral weakness of distal and proximal muscles in the legs, bladder dysfunction, and a variable degree of sensory loss below the level of injury.
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central nervous system (CNS)
The brain and spinal cord. In vertebrates, the brain is protected by the skull and the spinal cord is protected by vertebrae and both are covered by meninges.
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cephalic
Relating to the head.
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cerebellar abiotrophy
A disease resulting in premature degeneration of the cells in the cerebellum and leading to balance and coordination problems; likely caused by a metabolic defect.
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cerebellar hypoplasia
A congenital disorder where the cerebellum does not form or mature normally before birth, causing signs related to poor balance and incoordination.
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cerebellitis
Inflammation of the cerebellum.
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cerebellomedullary cistern
The opening in the subarachnoid space of the brain created by a separation of the arachnoid and pia mater. This large space is filled with cerebrospinal fluid and located between the cerebellum and medulla. This is where the needle is inserted and cerebrospinal fluid withdrawn during a cervical spinal tap.
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cerebral hemisphere
Symmetrical right and left halves of the cerebrum divided by the longitudinal fissure and falx cerebri.
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cerebral sinuses
See dural venous sinuses.
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cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)
The fluid flowing within the ventricular system that surrounds, cushions, and nourishes the brain and spinal cord. It is formed continuously by the choroid plexus in the ventricles, and is reabsorbed into the blood by the arachnoid villi at approximately the same rate at which it is produced; Examination of CSF for the presence of abnormal or excessive numbers of cells and protein content is an important source of information about the nervous system. ►Learn about CSF Analysis at the VNC
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cervical
Pertaining to the neck; dogs and cats have 7 cervical vertebrae.
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cervical disk disease
See intervertebral disk disease.
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cervical spondylomyelopathy
See wobbler syndrome.
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chemistry panel
A laboratory test to evaluate the general health of a patient by looking at several areas or parts of the blood (e.g. electrolytes). The test is performed on serum.
►click here to learn more-link provided by: www.peteducation.com
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Chiari-like malformation
See caudal occipital malformation syndrome.
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cholinergic
Relating to nerve cells or fibers that employ choline (acetylcholine) as their neurotransmitter, i.e. the parasympathetic nerve endings.
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chronic
Persisting over a long period of time.
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circling
Compulsively walking in a circle; can be a sign of forebrain or vestibular disease.
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cisterna
A cavity or sac serving as a reservoir for fluid such as lymph or cerebrospinal fluid.
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clonic seizure
Generalized seizure characterized by jerking movements on both sides of the body.
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clonus
A series of involuntary muscular contractions due to sudden stretching of the muscle.
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coccyx
The last bones of the vertebral column below the sacrum; the tail.
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cochlea
Structure in the inner ear that converts sound pressure impulses into electrical impulses which are passed on to the brain via the auditory part of the vestibulocochlear nerve.
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coma
State of unresponsiveness to both environment and noxious stimuli.
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complex partial seizure
A partial seizure that primarily manifests as inappropriate, uncontrolled behavior. Some examples are fly biting, screaming, tail chasing and abnormal aggression (rage). These seizures possibly involve the limbic system and may also be called psychomotor seizures.
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compulsive behavior
Repetitive behavior (e.g. animal chasing its tail) often due to neurological disease of the forebrain or a behavioral disorder such as obsessive compulsive disorder.
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computed tomography (CT)
X-ray procedure that uses a computer to produce a detailed picture of a cross section of the body; also called CAT (Computed Axial Tomography) scan.
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concussion
Traumatic closed head injury that results in temporary impairment of neurological function, e.g., transient loss of consciousness.
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congenital
Referring to conditions that are present at birth, regardless of their causation.
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contracture
Inability to move a joint due to a permanent rigidity or contraction of a muscle.
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convulsions
Repeated muscle contraction and relaxation resulting in the body shaking rapidly and uncontrollaby.
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coonhound paralysis
See idiopathic polyradiculoneuritis.
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coronal
As related to a plane of view, see dorsal.
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cortical
Referring to the cerebral cortex, the outermost layer of the cerebrum.
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cranial
Pertaining to the cranium, or to the skull.
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cranial nerve nuclei
Collection of neurons in the brainstem that form synapses associated with one or more cranial nerves. Lesions of the cranial nerve nuclei can lead to signs resembling those associated with the particlular cranial nerve. All the nuclei, except that which supplies the trochlear nerve (CN IV), supply nerves to to the same side of the body.
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cranial sinuses
See dural venous sinuses.
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craniectomy
Surgical removal of a section of bone from the skull for the purpose of operating on the underlying tissues or relieving intracranial pressure, in which the bone is not replaced at the end of the procedure.
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craniotomy
Surgical removal of a section of bone from the skull for the purpose of operating on the underlying tissues, in which the bone is replaced at the end of the procedure.
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Cushing's disease
A condition characterized by abnormally increased activity of the cortex of the adrenal gland resulting in overproduction of steroid hormones; also called hyperadrenocorticism.
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cyanotic
Characterized by bluish discoloration of skin and mucous membranes due to significantly reduced amount of hemoglobin in the blood.
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cyst
A closed sac having a distinct membrane and division on the nearby tissue. It may contain air, fluids, or semi-solid material. Once formed, the cyst will remain in the tissue permanently and can be removed by surgery and by taking medication that will dissolve the "sac".
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dancing Doberman disease
A neuromuscular disease of Doberman Pinschers; affected dogs may alternately flex and extend both pelvic limbs in a dance-like fashion.
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deafness
Inability to hear.
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degeneration
The change of tissue from a higher to lower, less functionally active form.
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degenerative myelopathy
A progressive disease of the spinal cord resulting in ataxia and paresis of the limbs; similar to multiple sclerosis in humans in that they both destroy myelin fibers in the spinal cord.
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dendrite
Receiving portion of the neuron.
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denervation
Loss of nerve supply.
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dermatitis
Inflammation of the skin having many causes such as direct contact with an irritating substance, an allergic reaction, bacterial infection or malnutrition. Signs include redness, itching, and sometimes, blistering.
►click here to learn more-link provided by: www.merckvetmanual.com
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dermatome
The area of skin supplied with afferent nerve fibers by a single dorsal spinal root.
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diabetes
Condition caused by insulin deficiency or dysfunction resulting in increased glucose in the blood.
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DICOM
Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine; the standard software format used to process, store, print, and transmit (and exchange) medical imaging information.
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disease
An abnormal condition which impairs bodily function.
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disk
See intervertebral disk.
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distal
Away from the point of attachment or origin.
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distal polyneuropathy
Disease of dogs characterized by degeneration of the distal axons of peripheral nerves.
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distemper, feline
See feline panleukopenia virus.
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diverticulum
Small outpouching from the main part of a tubular organ or structure.
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dopamine
A neurotransmitter in the brain that regulates movement, emotion, motivation, and the feeling of pleasure; the precursor of norepinephrine.
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doppler
Purpose: Medical instrument which uses reflected sound waves (i.e. ultrasound) to evaluate blood as it flows through a blood vessel. How Works: A transducer is passed lightly over the skin above a blood vessel which sends and receives sound waves that are amplified through a microphone. The sound waves bounce off solid objects, including blood cells. The movement of blood cells causes a change in pitch of the reflected sound waves. Information from the reflected sound waves can be processed by a computer to provide graphs or pictures that represent the flow of blood through the blood vessels.
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dropped jaw
See trigeminal neuritis.
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dural venous sinuses
Venous channels found between layers of dura mater in the brain. They receive blood (from internal and external veins of the brain) and cerebrospinal fluid (from the subarachnoid space via the arachnoid villa) which ultimately empty into the internal jugular vein; also called dural sinuses, cerebral sinuses, and cranial sinuses.
►click here to learn more-link provided by: University of Minnesota, College of Veterinary Medicine
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dysautonomia
Disease of the autonomic nervous system.
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dysosmia
Decreased or abnormal sense of smell.
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dysphagia
Difficulty in prehension (getting food into the mouth), chewing and swallowing.
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ear
Part of the auditory and vestibular systems, it detects sound and helps to maintain balance. It is composed of three main parts: the outer ear (pinna, ear canal, surface of ear drum), middle ear, and inner ear (cochlea, vestibule, and semicircular canals). ►click here to learn more-link provided by: www.peteducation.com
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ectoderm
The outermost of the three primary germ layers of the embryo which ultimately develops into the nervous system (neuroectoderm).
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edema
The presence of extra amounts of fluid in the intercellular tissue space; swelling. It may be localized due to venous or lymphatic obstruction or increased vascular permeability or it could be systemic due to heart failure or kidney disease.
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efferent
Pathway originating from the central nervous system toward the peripheral end organs, i.e., away from one structure, towards another.
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electrocardiograph (ECG or EKG)
A medical instrument used to assess cardiac function by measuring the electrical activity of the heart. With each heartbeat, an electrical signal spreads from the top of the heart to the bottom. As it travels, the signal causes the heart to contract and pump blood and sets the rhythm of the heartbeat. The process repeats with each new heartbeat. ECG detects these signals with electrodes that are placed on the body. It shows how fast the heart is beating, whether the rhythm of the heartbeat is steady or irregular, and the strength and timing of electrical signals as they pass through each part of the heart.
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electrodiagnostics
Medical techniques used to record responses to electrical stimulation; used to diagnose and evaluate conditions affecting the neuromuscular, muscular, or nervous systems.
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electroencephalography (EEG)
The recording of the electrical potentials emanating spontaneously from nerve cells in the brain.
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electromagnetic (EM) radiation
A self-propagating wave in space with electric and magnetic components. These components oscillate at right angles to each other and to the direction of propagation, and are in phase with each other. Electromagnetic radiation is classified into types according to the frequency of the wave. These types include, in order of increasing frequency: radio waves, microwaves, terahertz radiation, infrared radiation, visible light, ultraviolet radiation, X-rays and gamma rays. EM radiation carries energy and momentum, which may be imparted when it interacts with matter. The waves with the higher frequency have shorter wavelengths and higher energy.
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electromyography (EMG)
The recording of the electrical activity in skeletal muscle.
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embolus
A clot or other type of material (e.g. air, tumor cells, bacteria) carried by the blood in a blood vessel and forced into a smaller blood vessel resulting in an obstruction in circulation.
►click here to learn more-link provided by: www.merckvetmanual.com
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encephalomyelitis
Inflammation of the brain and spinal cord.
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encephalopathy
Any disease of the brain.
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endothelium
The layer of epithelial cells that lines internal body structures such as the heart cavities, blood and lymph vessels, and some glands.
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enhancement
An increased ability to see certain tissues after the injection of contrast material in the blood stream during imaging procedures, e.g. X-ray, CT or MRI.
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enophthalmos
Posterior displacement of the eyeball into the bony orbit.
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epilepsy
Chronic brain disorder of various etiologies (i.e. causes or origins of the disease) characterized by recurrent unprovoked seizures.
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epinephrine
A hormone synthesized in the adrenal medulla and released into the bloodstream during fight-or-flight response: stimulates muscle contraction of arteries and capillaries, increases blood pressure, stimulates the heart muscle, accelerates the heart rate, and increases cardiac output; also called adrenaline.
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epiphysis cerebri
See pineal gland.
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epithelium
The covering of internal and external surfaces of the body including the lining of vessels and other small cavities. One of the 4 primary tissues (connective, muscular, and nerve) of the body and grouped into 3 types (squamous, cuboidal and columnar).
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evoked potentials
Procedures which record the brain’s activity in response to the stimulation of specific sensory pathways (e.g. auditory, visual, general sensory).
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fasciculation
Spontaneous firing of an axon resulting in a visible twitch of all the muscle fibers it contacts; indicative of denervation.
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feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV)
A retrovirus that infects cats; similar to human immunodeficiency virus (HIV, the virus that causes AIDS), it attacks the immune system and as a result, the cat is more susceptible to infections that do not typically affect healthy cats.
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feline infectious peritonitis (FIP)
Highly contagious disease affecting cats caused by a coronavirus (so called because of the crown or halo appearance under a microscope). Peritonitis is inflammation of the peritoneum. The virus is shed through saliva and feces.
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feline nonsuppurative meningoencephalomyelitis
An inflammatory disease of the meninges, brain, and spinal cord (i.e. the central nervous system) in cats; also called staggering disease.
►click here to learn more-link provided by: www.merckvetmanual.com
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fiber
fiber: long, threadlike structure. fibrous: any substance containing fibers. fibrosis: (1) the normal formation of fibrous tissue (2) the excessive growth of fibrous tissue in a repair or reactive process. fibrotic: pertaining to fibrosis.
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fibrillation
Spontaneous firing of a single muscle fiber not visable to the naked eye, indicative of denervation or irritable (i.e. inflammatory) myopathy; seen electrographically as a brief action potential with initial positive (down) wave followed by negative (up) wave.
►click here to learn more-link provided by: www.veterinarypartner.com
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fibrocartilaginous embolism (FCE)
The sudden blocking of blood flow to the spinal cord due to the lodging of fibrocartilage (believed to have originated from an intervertebral disk) in a blood vessel; occasionally results in ischemia and infarction of the spinal cord.
►click here to learn more-link provided by: www.veterinarypartner.com
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focal seizure
A nonclinical spontaneous discharge of a small group of neurons in the cerebral cortex which can only be seen on an EEG. It is unlike a partial seizure which is observed clinically.
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fontanel
A soft spot; skin and membrane covered spaces remaining at the junction of the sutures, especially between the frontal and parietal bones, in the incompletely covered skull of the fetus or neonate. The fontanel usually closes after birth but in hydrocephalus, it may remain open.
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foramen magnum
Large opening at the base of the skull through which the spinal cord and vertebral arteries pass from the vertebral canal into the cranial cavity.
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fungus
A kingdom of multicellular lower plants lacking chlorophyll, e.g. mold, mildew, yeast, mushrooms. The fungus body normally consists of filamentous strands called mycelium and reproduces through dispersal of spores. ►click here to learn more-link provided by: www.merckvetmanual.com
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gait
Manner or style of walking.
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generalized seizure
Seizure that affects both cerebral hemispheres simultaneously and causes unconsciousness at the outset. There are two types: absence/petit mal or tonic-clonic/grand mal.
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genu
"Kneelike" bend in the anterior part of the corpus callosum.
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geriatric vestibular syndrome
Disorder characterized by acute onset of vestibular signs (e.g. difficulty walking, incoordination, head tilt) occuring in older dogs. There is no apparent cause but spontaneously resolves in ~ 10-14 days.
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graft
Healthy skin, bone, or other tissue taken from one part of the body to replace diseased or injured tissue removed from another part of the body.
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grand mal seizure
See tonic-clonic seizure.
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granuloma
Focal collection of inflammatory cells (usually macrophages) that typically arise in response to infection or immune stimulation in an attempt to isolate ("wall off") an irritant when unable to remove it; likely having an immune-mediated origin.
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head pressing
Persistent pushing with the head against a fixed object; often a sign of brain disease.
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head tilt
Viewing from the front, the head appears tilted to one side; often a sign of vestibular disease.
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heavy metal toxicity
Metallic elements with high atomic weights; a common hazardous waste; can damage organisms at low concentrations and tends to accumulate in the food chain, e.g. lead, iron.
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hemangiosarcoma
Cancer formed by proliferation of endothelial and fibrobastic (connective) tissue, typically involving highly vascular organs such as the spleen or liver.
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hematocrit (HCT)
See packed cell volume (PCV).
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hemifacial spasm
Persistent contraction of the facial muscles on one side; often due to chronic disease of the facial nerve.
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hemiparesis
Partial loss of voluntary movement in the limbs on one side of the body.
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hemiplegia
Complete loss of voluntary movement in the limbs on one side of the body.
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hemorrhage
Profuse loss of blood from a ruptured blood vessel; bleeding.
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hepatic microvascular dysplasia
Condition caused by the undervelopment or absense of the microscopic vessels within the liver; leads to liver atrophy and the inability to process toxins or make necessary proteins; also called portal atresia.
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hepatoencephalopathy
A metabolic disorder affecting the brain that develops as a result of liver disease.
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herniation
The protrusion of an organ or other structure through the outer covering of a membrane, muscle, or bone; for example, the protrusion of the center (nucleus pulposus) through the outer covering (annulus fibrosus) of an intervertebral disk; see intervertebral disk disease.
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histoplasmosis
A disease caused by a type of fungus, Histoplasma capsulatum.
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hydrocephalus
Literally means "water on the brain"; increase in the size of ventricles and amount of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in the brain. There are numerous causes, including congenital birth defect, brain tumor, and brain injury. - Communicating hydrocephalus is caused by a lack of CSF absorption.
- Non-communicating hydrocephalus is caused by a blockage of CSF flow.
- Hydrocephalus ex vacuo is caused by an apparent increase in ventricular size due to loss of ancilliary brain tissue.
►click here to learn more-link provided by: www.petplace.com
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hydromyelia
Condition marked by dilation of the central canal of the spinal cord often occurring in conjunction with syringomyelia.
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hyperadrenocorticism
See Cushing’s disease.
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hyperesthesia
Increased sensitivity to painful stimulation.
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hypermetria
Voluntary muscular movement that results in overreaching of the intended goal; often resulting in high-stepping.
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hyperreflexia
Increase in the size or strength of a reflex.
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hyperthermia
Body temperature that is abnormally high.
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hypertonia
Increase in muscle tone; often resulting in extension of the limbs.
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hypertropia
An eye with strabismus that deviates up.
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hypophysis
see pituitary gland.
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hypoplasia
Incomplete or underdevelopment of an organ or tissue.
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hyporeflexia
Decrease in the size or strength of a reflex.
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hypothyroidism
Impaired production and secretion of the thyroid hormones resulting in a decreased metabolic rate.
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hypotonia
Decrease in muscle tone.
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hypotropia
An eye with strabismus that deviates down.
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hypoxia
Reduction in the supply of oxygen to the brain or other vital organs.
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ictus
The actual seizure event.
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idiopathic
Occuring without known cause; in the context of epilepsy, indicates cases in which no lesion is present and a genetic cause is presumed.
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idiopathic polyradiculoneuritis
Condition of unknown cause, characterized by inflammation of the nerves and nerve roots; also called coonhound paralysis. ►click here to learn more-link provided by: www.petplace.com
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immune-mediated disease
Condition which results from abnormal activity of the body's immune system; autoimmune disease is a subset of immune-mediated disease.
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immune-mediated meningoencephalitis
Inflammation of the brain and meninges resulting from abnormal activity of the body’s immune system.
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incontinence
Inability to control urination and defecation.
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infarct
An area of tissue damage due to ischemia resulting from obstruction of circulation commonly by a thrombus or embolus.
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infection
Invasion and multiplication of microorganisms in body tissues which may result in cellular injury due to competitive metabolism, toxins, intracellular replication, or antigen-antibody response.
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inflammation
A localized protective response elicited by injury or destruction of tissues, which serves to destroy, dilute, or wall off both the injurous agent and the injured tissue. The five cardinal signs of inflammation include: - redness (rubor)
- swelling (tumor)
- heat (calor)
- pain (dolor)
- loss of function (functio laesa)
►click here to learn more-link provided by: www.merckvetmanual.com
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inner ear
Part of the ear involved in hearing and balance. It is composed of the semicircular canals (control balance), vestibule, and the cochlea (amplify sound).
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innervation
The distribution or supply of nerves to a part.
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interneuron
Neuron that receives input from one neuron and projects to another neuron within the spinal cord, allowing a greater degree of complexity of movement control.
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intervertebral disk disease
Condition affecting the spine, in which a tear in the outer, fibrous ring (annulus fibrosus) of an intervertebral disk allows the soft, central portion (nucleus pulposus) to bulge out. This tear in the disk ring may result in the pressurized contents striking and compressing the spinal cord, causing pain and/or paresis. The disease progresses when persistent compression damages neurons and blood vessels causing the release of inflammatory chemical mediators and decreasing blood flow to the spinal cord resulting in severe pain. Type I disk disease occurs with a total rupture of the dorsal part of the annulus and extrusion of the nucleus pulposus into the spinal canal. Type II disk disease occurs with a bulging of the annulus fibrosis into the spinal canal.
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intracranial pressure
Pressure in the skull exerted by the brain, cerebrospinal fluid, and the cerebral blood supply.
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intrathecal space
Within a sheath; an intrathecal injection goes through the theca of the spinal cord and into the subarachnoid space.
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intravenous (IV)
Within a vein.
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ion
An atom with a positive (cation) or negative (anion) charge due to the loss or gain of one or more electrons.
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ionizing radiation
Any radiation (e.g. X-rays) capable of displacing electrons from atoms or molecules, thereby producing (positively) charged particles or ions. At high doses, ionizing radiation increases chemical activity inside cells and can lead to health risks, including cancer.
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ionophore
Any molecule that increases the permeability of a cell membrane to a specific ion; usually synthesized by microorganisms, some ionophores are used as antibiotics and/or as growth enhancing feed additives for certain food animals such as cattle; overdose and misuse may cause myopathy.
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ipsilateral
Located on the same side of the body.
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ischemia
Impairment of tissue function due to a reduction in blood supply relative to metabolic demand.
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knuckling
Flexing or buckling on lower limb joints when supporting weight.
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kyphosis
An abnormal flexion primarily of the thoracolumbar vertebrae; can result in "hunchback" appearance.
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lameness
Decreased ability or desire to bear weight on a limb due to pain or mechanical restriction of joint movement.
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Larmor frequency
The frequency or rate of precession of the nuclear magnetic moment (spins) and is proportional to the magnetic field strength. Radio waves of the Larmor frequency are used to produce radiofrequency (RF) pulses in MRI.
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laryngeal paralysis
A condition in which the nerves and muscles that move the cartilage of the larynx cease to function causing difficulty breathing and swallowing.
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larynx
Organ in the neck which protects the trachea and involved in sound production. The larynx houses the vocal folds, and is situated just below where the tract of the pharynx splits into the trachea and the esophagus.
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lateral
To the side of midline of the body or structure.
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lead poisoning
A condition caused by increased lead blood levels that may cause irreversible neurological damage as well as kidney disease, cardiovascular effects, and reproductive toxicity.
►click here to learn more-link provided by: www.merckvetmanual.com
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liver
Organ which plays major role in metabolism and has a number of functions in the body, including glycogen storage, decomposition of red blood cells, plasma protein synthesis, and detoxification of blood.
►click here to learn more-link provided by: www.peteducation.com
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lordosis
Abnormal extension of the vertebral column, especially in the thoracolumbar region; can result in "dropped-back" appearance.
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lower motor neuron
Peripheral motor neurons whose cell bodies lie in the ventral gray columns of the spinal cord and whose terminations are in skeletal muscles.
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lumbar
The part of the back between the thorax and pelvis; dogs and cats have 7 lumbar vertebrae.
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lumbosacral spine
The lumbar and sacral part of the spine.
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lumbosacral stenosis
Narrowing of the spinal canal causing the intervertebral disk between the most caudal lumbar vertebra and the sacrum to bulge and compress the nerve roots (they resemble the tail of a horse) which occupy the canal below the spinal cord; compression could lead to signs such as back pain, paresis; also called cauda equina syndrome.
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luxation
Dislocation of an anatomical structure, e.g. vertebrae, eye lens, patella (i.e. kneecap).
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lyme disease
See borreliosis.
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magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
A noninvasive, non-x-ray diagnostic procedure based on magnetic fields of hydrogen atoms within the body. A magnet linked to a computer is used to create images of the body’s internal tissues and organs.
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malignant
Refers to cells or tumors growing progressively and in an uncontrolled fashion. Such growths may spread to and disrupt nearby normal tissue or reach distant sites via the bloodstream.
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malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor (MPNST)
A type of soft tissue sarcoma that develops in the cells that form a protective sheath (covering) around peripheral nerves, which are the nerves that are outside of the central nervous system.
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mandibular paralysis
See trigeminal neuritis.
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medial
Toward the midline of the body or structure.
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medulloblastoma
A cerebellar tumor composed of neuroepithelial cells.
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megaesophagus
Interruption of the reflexes that cause contraction and relaxation of the esophageal muscles resulting in dilation and loss of tone of the espophagus.
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megalencephaly
Abnormally large, heavy, and usually malfunctioning brain; thought to be related to a disturbance in the regulation of cell reproduction or proliferation.
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melanoma
A cancer arising from the pigment cells of the skin.
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meningitis
Inflammation of the meninges.
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meningoencephalitis
Inlammation of the brain and meninges.
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mesencephalic aqueduct
See cerebral aqueduct.
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metabolic
Relating to metabolism, the sum of the chemical processes in a cell or in the body that are necessary to sustain life; includes creating energy by breaking down substances (e.g. oxygen, food) and using energy to synthesize substances (e.g. proteins, fats, sugars), called catabolism and anabolism, repectively.
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metastasis
The transfer of disease from one part of the body to another part that is not directly related to it; characteristic of many malignant tumors.
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metronidazole toxicity
Idiosyncratic reaction to this common antibiotic that can result in neurological signs, particularly those associated to the vestibular system.
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microorganism
Minute living organisms such as bacteria, rickettsiae, viruses, fungi, yeasts, and protozoa.
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middle ear
Portion of the ear that transfers sound from the eardrum to the inner ear.
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miosis
Abnormally small pupil.
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monoparesis
Paresis of one limb.
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monoplegia
Paralysis of one limb.
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motoneuron
See motor neuron.
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motor nerve
A nerve originating from motor neurons supplying muscle or other target organs.
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motor neuron
A nerve cell that conducts action potentials away from the central nervous system and innervates effector organs (muscle and glands); it forms the ventral roots of the spinal nerves; also called an efferent neuron or motoneuron.
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motor unit
Composed of the motor neuron → axon → muscle fibers.
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muscular dystrophy
A group of congenital muscle diseases in which muscle fibers are unusually susceptible to damage and become progressively weaker. The most common types of muscular dystrophies are due to a genetic deficiency of the muscle protein dystrophin.
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myasthenia gravis
An autoimmune disease that affects the neuromuscular junction, interrupting the communication between nerve and muscle, thereby causing muscle weakness.
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myelin
The lipid substance coating the axons of certain neurons; formed by neuroglial cells: oligodendrocytes and Schwann cells; enables action potentials to travel faster while using less energy.
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myelitis
Inflammation of the spinal cord.
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myelography
Diagnostic procedure in which contrast material is injected into the spinal subarachnoid space allowing visualization of the spinal cord and nerve roots.
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myelopathy
Any disease affecting the spinal cord.
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myoclonus
A brief, involuntary twitching (contracting) of a muscle or group of muscles.
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myoneural junction
See neuromuscular junction.
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myopathy
Non-specific term for any disease affecting muscle (usually skeletal muscle) which causes muscles to become weak or wasted.
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myositis
Inflammation of a muscle, especially a voluntary muscle (i.e. skeletal muscle), characterized by pain, weakness and sometimes spasm in the affected area.
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myotonia
Decreased ability to relax muscles after contraction which can be a specific form of myopathy.
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narcolepsy
Condition marked by loss of muscle tone (and possibly uncontrollable desire to sleep or by sudden attacks of sleep) occurring at intervals.
►click her to learn more-link provided by: www.petplace.com
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necrosis
Death of cells or tissue.
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necrotizing meningoencephalitis
Inflammation and necrosis of the brain and spinal cord.
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neoplasm
New growth of benign or malignant tissue; see tumor.
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nerve
Enclosed, cable-like bundle of axons.
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nerve conduction velocity (NCV) study
A procedure used to measure the adequacy of conduction of a nerve impulse, thereby detecting nerve disorders (e.g. neuropathies) or nerve injuries.
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nerve plexus
A network of intersecting nerves.
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nerve sheath
The connective tissue surrounding nerves and composed of fibrous tissue (and myelin); provides strength, shape, and increases conduction ability of the nerves.
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nervous system
The organ system (along with the endocrine system) which coordinates the adjustments and reactions of the body to internal and environmental conditions; composed of the central (brain and spinal cord) and peripheral (all other neural elements) nervous systems.
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neural plate
Ectodermal tissue on the dorsal surface of the embryo that forms the neural tube which develops into the central nervous system.
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neural tube
Embryonic brain and spinal cord.
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neuralgia
Pain that originates from nerve irritation usually involving specific nerves such as the trigeminal nerve.
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neuritis
Inflammation of a nerve or group of nerves, characterized by pain, loss of reflexes, and atrophy of the affected muscles.
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neurology
The study of the nervous system; medical specialty dealing with the nervous system and the diseases affecting it.
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neuroma
A swelling of a nerve; may be benign or malignant.
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neuromuscular junction
Junction (synapse) between the terminal end of a motor neuron and a muscle fiber; also called myoneural junction.
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neuromyopathy
Disorder of the nerves and muscles (including the heart); may be focal or generalized.
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neuron
Any of the conducting cells of the nervous system; grouped into 3 classes (sensory, interneuron and motor).
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neuronopathy
Any disease affecting nerve cells (neurons).
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neurotransmitter
Chemical substance (norepinephrine, acetylcholine, dopamine, etc.) that transmits electrical impulses between neurons; released from the axon terminal of a presynaptic neuron when excited and travels across the synaptic cleft to either excite or inhibit the target cell.
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norepinephrine
A neurohormone (released by adrenergic nerves) and also a neurotransmitter (of adrenergic neurons); it is synthesized from dopamine in the adrenal medulla and is a precursor to epinephrine; part of fight-or-flight response: increases heart rate, triggers the release of glucose, and increases blood flow to skeletal muscle.
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nucleus pulposus
Center of the intervertebral disk.
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nutrition
The sum of the processes inovolved in taking in and utilizing food; poor diet or ability to properly process nutritious substances can lead to disease.
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nystagmus
Oscillation or trembling of the eyeballs in response to head movement; may be involuntary and rhythmic with certain diseases, especially those involving the vestibular system.
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oblique
A plane that is neither perpendicular (sagittal) nor horizontal (dorsal); slanted.
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occipital bone
The bone at the back of the skull.
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otitis media/interna
Inflammation of the middle (otitis media) and inner (otitis interna) ears, commonly caused by bacterial infection.
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palsy
Paralysis of a muscle group usually from dysfunction of a specific nerve, e.g., facial nerve=Bell's palsy.
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papilloma
A branching benign tumor derived from epithelium (e.g. wart).
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paramagnetic
A substance that is attracted by a magnet and assumes a position parallel to the magnetic force but does not become permanently magnetized.
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paraparesis
Paresis of both legs (usually refers to the back legs).
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paraplegia
Paralysis of both legs (usually refers to the back legs).
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parasite
An organism which lives upon or within another living organism at whose expense it obtains some advantage.
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parenchyma
The functional tissue or cells of an organ or gland, as distinguished from supporting or connective tissue.
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paresis
Reduced motor function in a body part; reduced ability to activate motor neurons.
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partial seizure
A seizure that starts in a single specific region of the brain and can sometimes be a precursor to other types of seizures. There are two types: simple and complex.
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pathologist
A doctor who interprets and diagnoses the changes in body tissues caused by disease.
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pathology
The study of disease.
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peripheral neuropathy
See neuropathy.
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peritoneum
The smooth membrane which lines part of the abdominal cavity and some of the internal organs it contains.
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petit mal seizure
See absence seizure.
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photon
Small particle that carries electromagnetic radiation of all wavelengths; has zero mass.
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pineal gland
A small, endocrine gland attached by a stalk to the dorsal wall of the third ventricle of the cerebrum where the two thalamic bodies join; it produces melatonin which plays a role in circadian rhythm (i.e. the 24-hour cycle in the processes plants, animals, fungi, and cyanobacteria); it is also called epiphysis cerebri.
►click here to learn more (press>brainstem)-link provided by: University of Pennsylvania, School of Veterinary Medicine
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plasma
The blood's liquid medium; composed of 92% water and 8% proteins (including clotting factors, e.g. fibrin) and trace amounts of other materials.
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plexus
A network of nerves, blood vessels, or lymphatic tissue.
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polyarthritis
Inflammation of more than one joint usually due to an immune-mediated disorder.
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polymyositis
Systemic, noninfectious, possibly immune-mediated, inflammatory muscle disorder. It may be acute or chronic and progressive. Clinical signs include depression, lethargy, weakness, weight loss, lameness, myalgia, and muscle atrophy.
►click here to learn more-link provided by: www.merckvetmanual.com
►click here to learn more-link provided by: University of Pennsylvania, School of Veterinary Medicine
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polyneuritis
Inflammation of many nerves at once, often immune-mediated.
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polyp
An abnormal growth protruding from a mucus membrane.
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polyradiculoneuritis
Inflammation of peripheral nerves and spinal nerve roots. A common form of this condition is coonhound paralysis.
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portosystemic shunt
An abnormal blood vessel that bypasses the liver causing blood to be circulated through the body without being cleared of toxins and other metabolic by-products.
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positive sharp wave
Abnormal spontaneous muscle activity seen on electromyography in association with denervation or irritable myopathy consisting of long action potentials with initial positive (down) wave followed by a wide negative (up) wave.
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posterior
Toward the tail or end of a structure; in veterinary medicine, only used when referring to the eye and the extremeties.
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postictal
Period of time immediately following a seizure, characterized by signs such as altered behavior and vision and/or hearing deficits.
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precession
The spin of protons around the axis of a magnet.
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precursor
A substance from which another substance is formed, e.g. dopamine is a precursor to epinephrine and norepinephrine.
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preganglionic
Situated proximal to a ganglion; often used to describe autonomic nerve fibers in such a location.
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preictal
Period of time immediately before a seizure, during which a change in behavior may occur.
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prognosis
The prospect for recovery from a disease based on the signs and nature of the case.
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proprioception
Ability to sense relative position and movement of limbs.
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protozoa
Simplest type of organism in the animal kingdom; unicellular eukaryotic (have nucleus) organisms that range in size from submicroscopic to macroscopic; most are free-living but many are parasitic.
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proximal
Toward the point of attachment or origin.
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psychomotor seizure
See complex seizure.
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ptosis
Drooping of the upper eyelid often from paralysis of the oculomotor nerve or from sympathetic innervation.
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pulse oximeter
Purpose: Instrument used to measure the arterial oxygen saturation of hemoglobin and pulse rate. Oxygen saturation is the average amount of oxygen bound to each hemoblobin molecule. Each erythrocyte (red blood cell) contains millions of hemoglobin molecules and one molecule of hemoglobin can carry up to 4 molecules of oxygen (which is then 100% saturated with oxygen). This is an indicator of how well the cardio-respiratory system is working together to get oxygen delivered to all parts of the body.
How Works: Shines two different wavelengths of light (red and infrared) through a thin piece of tissue, e.g. tongue. The absorption of light at the different wavelengths by hemoglobin differs depending on the degree of oxygenation of hemoglobin. The percentage saturation is given as a digital readout together with an audible signal varying in pitch depending on oxygen saturation. The light signal following transmission through the tissues has a pulsatile component, resulting from the expansion and contraction of the arterial blood vessels with each heartbeat. This can be distinguished by the microprocessor from the non-pulsatile component resulting from venous, capillary and tissue light absorption. Where flow is sluggish (e.g. hypovolemia or vasoconstriction) the pulse oximeter may be unable to function.
Example of Uses: Detect hypoxia before a patient becomes clinically cyanotic.
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pupillary light response (PLR)
Contraction of the pupil on exposure of the retina to light; dependent on proper functioning of the optic and oculomotor nerves.
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pus
A whitish or yellowish, viscous liquid, inflammatory product composed of leukocytes (i.e. white blood cells) and fluid. An accumulation of pus in an enclosed space is called an abscess.
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quadriplegia
See tetraplegia.
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rabies
Infectious disease of the central nervous system caused by a virus from the family Rhabdoviridae; classified as an RNA virus because its genetic material is composed of ribonucleic acid (RNA).
►click here to learn more-link provided by: www.merckvetmanual.com
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radiation therapy
The use of high energy rays (e.g. x-rays, gamma rays) administered externally or radioactive substances (e.g. cesium, iridium, iodine) administered internally to destroy cancer cells; often used in conjunction with chemotherapy and/or surgery.
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radio waves
Electromagnetic waves of relatively low frequency.
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radiofrequency (RF) pulses
A pulse of radio waves at the Larmor frequency used to change the orientation of hydrogen protons; used during MRI scans.
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radiography
The use of x-rays to obtain images of internal body structures.
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reflex
An involuntary response to a stimulus.
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reflex arc
The simplest pathway of central nervous system control, involving a sensory neuron, motor neuron, and usually an interneuron.
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retina
Light-sensitive neuronal layer lining the back of the eye that sends impulses through the optic nerve that are translated into a visual image; part of the central nervous system. ►click here to learn more-link provided by: www.peteducation.com
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retrobulbar
Behind the globe of the eye.
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retrovirus
A virus that makes a DNA copy from its RNA and inserts it into an infected cell's DNA; an RNA virus from the family Retroviridae. Retroviruses are species specific and are fragile, being easily inactivated by ultraviolet light, heat, detergents, and drying. They can cause many diseases, including some cancers and AIDS.
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rickettsia
A parasitic bacteria occurring in the lumen of the gut in lice, fleas, ticks, and mites, by which they are transmitted to animals.
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rostral
Toward the head or nose.
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sacrum
Triangular-shaped bone composed of three fused vertebrae located caudal to the lowest lumbar vertebrae; strengthens and secures the pelvis.
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sagittal sulcus
See longtitudinal fissure.
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sarcoma
Malignant neoplasia growing from connective tissue (cartilage, fat, blood vessels, muscle or bone).
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Schwann cell
Form of neuroglial cell of the peripheral nervous system responsible for the synthesis and maintenance of the myelin sheath that insulates axons.
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seizure
A discrete event due to sudden, transient neuronal discharge that disturbs the brain’s normal electrical activity and causes a temporary change in behavior, consciousness, bodily movements or sensation. A seizure can have any one to three phases: preictal, ictus, and/or postictal. Seizures are the main symptoms of epilepsy, but can be caused by a wide variety of conditions.
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semicircular canals
Three half-circular, interconnected tubes in the inner ear that measure the body's orientation. This information is used by the vestibular system to maintain balance.
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sensory nerve
A nerve composed of sensory nerve fibers.
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sensory neuron
A nerve cell that conducts action potentials from sensory organs about changes in the external or internal environments toward the central nervous system; also called an afferent neuron.
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serum
The fluid that is left after whole blood is allowed to clot; also defined as plasma that lacks fibrinogen or any other clotting factors.
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sharp wave
EEG pattern consisting of a transient electrical discharge with a pointed peak and a duration of 70-200 milliseconds that stands out from ongoing background activity; has a strong association with epilepsy.
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shock
Condition where the tissues in the body do not receive enough oxygen and nutrients to allow the cells to function due to an acute derangement of circulatory control or loss of circulating fluid. This can ultimately lead to cellular death and progress to organ failure, whole body failure and then death.
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sign
An indication of the existence of a disease that is perceptible to an examining veterinarian; it is objective evidence, as opposed to the subjective sensations (symptoms) of the patient.
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simple partial seizure
A partial seizure that is primarily due to abnormal motor discharges and may appear as head/body turning, facial/muscle twitches, limb flexion or episodic tremors.
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small dog encephalitis
Immune-mediated disease causing severe inflammation of the brain; believed to be breed specific: common to Yorkshire Terriers, Maltese, and Chihuahuas.
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somatic nervous system
Division of the peripheral nervous system which carries messages to the muscles that move the skeleton either voluntary or by reflex; both the somatic and autonomic nervous systems utilize motor neurons.
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spike
EEG pattern consisting of a transient electrical discharge with a pointed peak and a duration of less than 70 milliseconds that stands out from ongoing background activity; has a strong association with epilepsy.
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spike-and-wave complex
Generalized synchronous pattern seen on EEG, consisting of a sharply contoured fast wave followed by a slow wave; seen in generalized epilepsy which is characterized by tonic-clonic seizures.
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spina bifida
A developmental anomaly characterized by defective closure of the vertebral arch; the spinal cord and/or meninges may or may not protrude through the defect.
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spinal canal
The space that houses the spinal cord throughout the length of the spinal column and provides openings for the exit of paired spinal nerves from the spinal cord; also called the vertebral canal.
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spinal cord
Part of the central nervous system, a column of nervous tissue that runs from the base of the skull down the back. It is surrounded by three protective membranes (i.e. meninges) and is enclosed within vertebrae that compose the spine. It carries most of the messages between the brain and the rest of the body. ►click here to learn more-link provided by: University of Minnesota, College of Veterinary Medicine
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spinal infarct
Sometimes called a spinal "stroke", a spinal cord infarction occurs when one of the three major arteries that supply blood to the spinal cord is blocked. Therefore, the spinal cord is deprived of oxygen, resulting in injury and destruction of the nerve fibers. The resulting disability depends on where the spinal cord was injured and the extent of the blockage. Everything below the occlusion will be affected.
►click here to learn more-link provided by: University of Pennsylvania, School of Veterinary Medicine
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spinal tap
A procedure in which a needle is inserted into the subarachnoid space and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is withdrawn; a cisternal tap is performed in the upper cervical area called the cerebellomedullary cistern and a lumbar tap is performed in the patient's lower back region.
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splenium
Thickened caudal border of the corpus callosum.
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spondylosis deformans
Noninflammatory condition associated with degeneration of the annulus fibrosus of the intervertebral disk leading to the formation of bony spurs and bridges at the intervertebral spaces along the ventral spine. The ossification is frequently present in the caudal thoracic and caudal lumbar vertebrae. Spondlylosis does not cause degeneration of the center (nucleus pulposus) of the disk or disk protrusion and rarely causes any neurological signs; occasionally it can cause spinal pain.
►click here to learn more-link provided by: University of Pennsylvania, School of Veterinary Medicine
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staggering disease
See feline nonsuppurative meningoencephalomyelitis.
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status epilepticus
Medical emergency generally considered to be more than 7 minutes of either continuous seizure activity or two or more sequential seizures without full recovery of consciousness in between them.
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stenosis
Narrowing or stricture of a duct or canal.
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storage diseases
Metabolic disorders characterized by the accumulation of certain substances in various tissues in abnormal amounts; two commonly reported in veterinary medicine are lysosomal and glycogen storage disease.
►click here to learn more-link provided by: www.petplace.com
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stroke
Sudden loss of neurological function caused by a blockage or rupture of a blood vessel to the brain or spinal cord; includes infarction and hemorrhage subtypes.
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strychnine poisoning
Caused by a chemical found in Strychnos (a genus of tropical trees) that results in excitation of all parts of the central nervous system by blocking postsynaptic inhibition of neural impulses.
►click here to learn more-link provided by: www.merckvetmanual.com
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stupor
Condition of unresponsiveness from which the patient can only be aroused by vigorous and repeated stimuli; once stimulus ceases, patient lapses back into unresponsiveness.
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subcortical
Portion of the brain immediately below the cerebral cortex.
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subluxation
An incomplete or partial luxation; partial dislocation.
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suppurative
Producing pus.
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suture
Fibrous joint between bones of the skull which allows very little movement.
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sylvian aqueduct
See cerebral aqueduct.
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symptom
Any sensation or change in bodily function that is experienced by a patient and is associated with a particular disease; it is subjective evidence, as opposed to objective indicators (signs) that a doctor finds upon examination.
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synapse
The junction between neurons and their target cells at which an impulse is transmitted by either electrical or chemical means; the two cells are separated by a small gap called the synaptic cleft.
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syncope
Temporary loss of consciousness (fainting) that results from inadequate blood supply to the brain.
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syndrome
A condition based on a set of signs/symtpoms that occur together.
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syrinx
A divirticulum that forms in the spinal cord due to obstruction of the normal flow of cerebrospinal fluid.
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tesla
Unit of measurement that determines the strength of a magnet. The magnets used in MRI for general medical purposes are predominantly between 1.0-1.5 tesla and up to 3.0 for certain specialty uses.
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tetanus
An acute, often fatal disease caused by the toxin of the bacteria Clostridium tetani, which typically infects the body through a deep wound; characterized by spasmodic contraction of voluntary muscles, especially those of the neck and jaw; primarily affects the spinal cord but could have local form (e.g. one limb).
►click here to learn more-link provided by: www.veterinarypartner.com
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tetraparesis
Paresis in all four limbs.
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tetraplegia
Paralysis in all four limbs.
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thiamine deficiency
Syndrome associated with vascular injury and nerve damage caused by inadequate dietary intake of thiamine, a component of vitamin B1.
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thorax
The chest; dogs and cats have 13 thoracic vertebrae.
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thromboembolism
Formation in a blood vessel of a clot (thrombus) that breaks loose and is carried by the blood stream to plug another vessel. The clot may plug a vessel in the lungs (pulmonary embolism), brain (stroke), gastrointestinal tract, kidneys, or leg. ►click here to learn more-link provided by: www.petplace.com
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thrombus
A blood clot that forms in a vessel.
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tick paralysis
The loss of muscle function due to a bite from a tick; the tick secretes a neurotoxin that inhibits communication between cells at the neuromuscular junction. ►click here to learn more-link provided by: www.merckvetmanual.com
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tonic seizure
Generalized seizure that involves stiffening of the entire body.
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tonic-clonic seizure
Generalized seizure characterized by initial contraction of the muscles (tonic phase), which may involve tongue biting and urinary incontinence, followed by rhythmic muscle contractions (clonic phase); also called grand mal seizure.
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toxin
A substance produced by a plant, animal, or bacteria that causes disease in other organisms; a poison.
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trauma
An injury that is physically (or emotionally) inflicted.
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tremor
Involuntary, often rhythmic, oscillatory movements about a fixed point due to alternating or synchronous contractions of agonist (i.e. the prime mover) and antagonist (i.e. the opposition to the agonist) muscles.
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trismus
Inability to open mouth, usually due to spasm of the jaw muscles.
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ultrasonic
Sounds with frequencies above 20,000 Hz.
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ultrasonic aspirator
An apparatus commonly used in human neurosurgery to remove tissue; the tip ultrasonically vibrates at about 25KHz to break up tissue which is removed by an attached piece that provides irrigation and suction.
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upper motor neuron
A neuron that is part of the motor nerve pathway that orignates in the brain and terminates at a peripheral motor neuron; damage to this pathway releases the peripheral nerve from central control, often causing exaggerated responses.
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valley fever
See coccidiodomycosis.
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vascular
Pertaining to blood vessels.
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ventilator
An automatic mechanical device designed to provide all or part of the work the body must produce to move gas into and out of the lungs for patients who are unable to breathe (e.g. during general anesthesia) or have difficulty breathing. During general anesthesia, a tube is placed in the patient's windpipe (process called intubation) and connected to the ventilator to supply air to the lungs. In an anesthesia circuit the bag/bellows on the ventilator are used to determine the size/pressure and rate of breaths and can easily be adjusted depending on patient status.
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ventral
Denoting a position toward the front or underside.
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vertebral canal
See spinal canal.
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vertebral column
See spine.
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vertebral osteomyelitis
Inflammation of the vertebra, without concurrent disk infection, usually caused by either a bacteria or fungus.
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vestibular apparatus
The portions of the inner ear (vestibule and three semicircular canals) that work, as part of the vestibular system, with the brain to maintain the body’s orientation in space, balance, and posture.
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vestibular system
The vestibular system senses the position of the head and body in space, in relation to gravity and movement. Maintains balance and coordinates eye movements with movement of the head. The receptors for the vestibular system are located in the inner ear, adjacent to the hearing receptors. Vestibular information is transmitted from the innear ear via the vestibulocochlear nerve to the lower portion of the brain where it is processed by the brainstem and cerebellum.
►click here to learn more-link provided by: University of Minnesota, College of Veterinary Medicine
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virus
A virus is a minute infectious agent (about 100 times smaller than bacteria) that cannot be seen under a light microscope. They lack independent metabolism, are only able to replicate within the host cell, carry either DNA or RNA as their genetic material, and are protected by a protein coat. The body's immune system is usually able to eliminate harmful viruses and vaccines provide immunity to a particular viral infection. Antibiotics have no effect on viruses but antiviral medications suppress replication.
►click here to learn more-link provided by: www.merckvetmanual.com
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weakness
The decrease in strength of one or more muscles.
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white dog shaker syndrome
Disorder causing full body tremors due to inflammation of the cerebellum; common in small, young dogs such as Maltese and West Highland White Terrier. Also called idiopathic cerebellitis.
►click here to learn more-link provided by: www.petplace.com
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whole blood
Blood that has not been modified except for the addition of an anticoagulant and normally used in transfusions.
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x-rays
Form of electromagnetic radiation that has a higher energy and lower wavelength than visible light; they can be generated by accelerating electrons at a metal target creating photons (form of energry) that are able to penetrate most substances. X-rays are used in radiography to produce images of internal body structures on a photographic plate; tissues with higher density (e.g. bone) more readily absorb x-ray photons than tissues with lower density (e.g. soft tissue).
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yeast
A unicellular fungus; most are rounded and reproduce asexually by budding; some forms may become multicellular by forming strings of buds (e.g. mold).
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Z About.com Videos
Term test 3
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ZAbout.com-Botulism
About.com Videos Please Note: The About.com health videos were intended to describe topics specific to the human patient, not the veterinary patient (e.g. number of vertebrae in the spine, details about diagnostic testing, etc.). However, these videos are being linked because they do present good overviews of certain topics applicable to veterinary neurology. All the About.com health video links are listed in the Links section of the vetneuro.com website.
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