Neurologic Disorders of the Foal

Neurologic disease of foals is a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge for veterinarians. Disease conditions such as neonatal encephalopathy are seen as well as developmental and congenital defects, bacterial infections, and trauma. Neonatal encephalopathy can be considered a “syndrome” with a variety of causes resulting in a similar clinical presentation. These causes can be categorized as maladaptation, hypoxic/ischemic encephalopathy, and metabolic abnormalities, all leading to signs of cerebral and brainstem disease. Spinal cord signs may occasionally be seen, bu t these signs are usually overshadowed by cerebral disease. Treatment in most cases involves supportive care and outcome is favorable in most cases.
Source: Veterinary Clinics of North America: Equine Practice - Category: Veterinary Research Authors: Source Type: research