Shake, Rattle and Roll: Understanding Seizure Complexities

Karen Kline, DVM, MS, DACVIM

Dr. Karen Kline is currently performing a hybrid role between VCA Northwest Veterinary Specialists and Washington State University of College of Veterinary Medicine. Previously, she was a Neurologist at Veterinary Specialty Center of Seattle from 2008 to 2019 and Medical Director at Veterinary Specialty Center of Seattle from 2013 through 2018 respectively. She received her DVM degree from the The Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine in 1989 and completed a rotating internship at the Animal Medical Center in New York City in 1990. She stayed at AMC and completed her neurology residency in 1993 and stayed on a year as staff neurologist until 1994. In 1994, she became board certified in veterinary neurology through the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine that same year. From 1995 through 2008, Dr. Kline was an associate professor of neurology and neurosurgery at Iowa State College of Veterinary Medicine. While there she obtained her Master of Science degree in veterinary pathology and completed her thesis on Immunohistochemical Differentiation of Canine Inflammatory and Infectious diseases. She has published multiple journal articles, has been an author in several veterinary textbooks and has spoken at local, national and international meetings. She obtained her certification in veterinary acupuncture in 2000. Her special interests are neurosurgery, inflammatory and infectious central nervous system diseases and spinal cord injury and therapeutics. Dr. Kline has always enjoyed the Pacific Northwest and enjoys spending her free time with her husband, and dog extraordinaire, Voodie.

Overview:

This lecture will discuss the pathophysiology of seizures as well as the appropriate steps for attaining an accurate history, physical and neurologic examination and therapeutic steps for the canine and feline seizure patient. This will be presented with the doctor and nursing team in mind.

List of items to be discussed:

1) History taking

2) Physical and Neurologic examination findings

3) Discussion of anti-convulsants

4) Testing strategies and methods

5) Emergent care of the seizuring patient

Learning Objectives:

The attendee will gain an understanding of the pathophysiology of seizures
The attendee will gain an understanding of the physical and neurologic examination of the seizure patient
The attendee will gain an understanding of common anti-convulsant drugs
The attendee will gain an understanding of the emergent care of seizures

This course is RACE-approved for 1.0 continuing education credits hours in jurisdictions that accept RACE-approval.

This activity is sponsored by PRN