9/24 - Forebrain Disease

Forebrain

The four signs: circling, central blindness opposite to the lesion, proprioceptive deficits/paresis opposite to the lesion, and obtunded/behavioral changes are associated with lesions in what CNS structure? Disease relates to an imbalance of dopamine systems here, especially the nigrostriatal system function.

Toward

Will circling in forebrain and vestibular disease cases be toward or away from the lesion?

Vestibular

Will circling in vestibular or forebrain disease involve leaning and head tilt to the same side as the circling? Additional signs like nystagmus can also occur.

Forebrain

Will circling in vestibular or forebrain disease not involve leaning, head tilt, or poor balance, only circling? Infarcts and gliomas can cause this.

Behavioral

What type of circling, as opposed to that in vestibular and forebrain disease, is a tendency of the animal from puppy/kitten stage upward? The animal can run/walk in a straight line, balance and jumping ability are normal, and they spin more when emotionally aroused or when starting an activity. There is usually a side preference and other behavioral problems may be seen such as tail chasing. It is stereotypical.

Antioxidants

Neuroprotection with supplementation of what drugs includes vitamin E, vitamin C, carotenoids, flavonoids, selenium, L-carnitine, lipoic acid, and essential fatty acids, and are found in many commercial diets and supplements? These and associated enzymes reduce in the aged brain. Subclinical deficits in vitamins E and C can increase risk for developing cognitive impairment, and supplementation protects against age-related neuronal impairments.

Medium

Neuroprotection with what-chain triglycerides (long, short, or medium) is helpful because these are metabolized to ketone bodies which serve as an alternative source of energy for neurons? In early stages of AD, brain glucose is reduced, so alternate energy sources increase neuronal metabolism and can help protect neurons. In cats they are usually unpalatable so are not useful.

Propentofylline

What drug is a neuroprotectant to treat cognitive decline, and increases the molecular signal molecule adenosine? This improves cerebral blood flow, and is given orally BID 30 minutes before food. It can take at least 4 weeks to start seeing positive effects. It is a glial cell modulator also, and stimulates astrocytes and depresses microglial cells. It is not licensed in cats.

Selegilene

What drug, also called L-deprenyl, is a drug that alters neurotransmission to treat cognitive decline? It is a monoamine oxidase inhibitor and increases both noraderenalin and dopamine. It is neuroprotective by increasing antioxidant enzyme activity and increasing nitric oxide to modulate cerebral blood flow and memory. It improves memory and longevity and is useful for cases of anxiety and social withdrawal. It is given orally SID in dogs and is not licensed in cats but can be given. It can take 4-8 weeks to start seeing a positive effect. Adverse effects include vomiting, diarrhea, restlessness, and repetitive movements.

Sundown

What syndrome, which is a sleep disorder associated with cognitive decline, can be treated with melatonin, tryptophan chews, pheromone therapy, creating a predictable routine, increasing daytime activity and interaction, and giving alprazolam?