Epileptoid Cramping Syndrome
Episodic hypertonicity is characterized by paroxysms of muscular hypertonicity, usually precipitated by excitement or exercise. The disease is believed to be inherited as a recessive trait. The underlying mechanism for these episodes is thought to be the result of decreased central serotonin effects.
Age of Onset: Any age can be affected (average 2-3 years)
Sex Predisposition: Any sex of animal can be affected
Clinical Course:
Clinical signs are often intermittent and non-progressive. Episodes of hypertonicity are often triggered by excitement, stress, and exercise. Dogs typically do not lose consciousness during episodes and signs resolve within 10 minutes. Between episodes dogs are neurologically normal.
Clinical signs are often intermittent and non-progressive. Episodes of hypertonicity are often triggered by excitement, stress, and exercise. Dogs typically do not lose consciousness during episodes and signs resolve within 10 minutes. Between episodes dogs are neurologically normal.
Clinical Signs:
Movement
Generalized spasticity or hindlimb spasticity
Episodic kyphotic posture
Goose-stepping gait
Hypertonicity of one or multiple
Falling and curling into a ball
Ventroflexion of the tail
Cranial Nerves
Focal facial muscle contraction
Special Functions (e.g. respiration; urination)
Apnea during episodes
Other:
Mild gastrointestinal upset (vomiting, diarrhea, borborygmi)
Movement
Generalized spasticity or hindlimb spasticity
Episodic kyphotic posture
Goose-stepping gait
Hypertonicity of one or multiple
Falling and curling into a ball
Ventroflexion of the tail
Cranial Nerves
Focal facial muscle contraction
Special Functions (e.g. respiration; urination)
Apnea during episodes
Other:
Mild gastrointestinal upset (vomiting, diarrhea, borborygmi)
Diffuse neuromuscular
Unknown
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