A Board-certified Veterinary Neurologist is an individual that has graduated from veterinary school with a doctorate in veterinary medicine (DVM), but has gone on to complete additional specialized training in the field of Veterinary Neurology.
Veterinary Neurology pertains to conditions affecting the brain, spinal cord, muscles, and nerves of animals.
Examples of problems Board-certified Veterinary Neurologists are presented with include animals with difficulty using their legs (paralysis and/or weakness), spinal pain, abnormal gaits, seizures, unusual episodic events, behavioral changes, head tilt and balance issues, and tremors just to name a few.
The more common specialized tests utilized by a Board-certified Veterinary Neurologist include:
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
- Computed Tomography (CT, cat scan)
- Myelograms
- Spinal fluid analysis (spinal tap)
- Electrodiagnostics
- Muscle/nerve biopsy
The direct involvement of a Board-certified Veterinary Neurologist when these tests are performed is helpful in providing an expedited diagnosis and treatment plan.