Assessment and treatment of central nervous system abnormalities in the emergency patient.

Abstract

Disease of or injury to the central nervous system is a common rea-son for hospital admission on an emergency basis in veterinary medicine. Head injuries, seizures, and diseases that lead to intra-cranial hypertension frequently result in significant alteration of neurologic function. A thorough understanding of the pathophysiologic disturbances that occur during these conditions is para-mount for providing stabilizing emergent care. A detailed approach that focuses on meticulous physical evaluation, provision of timely and optimal stabilizing treatment, and continued monitoring can aid in improving outcomes in animals with signs and symptoms of neurologic disease or injury.