ECC Neurological Assessment & Pathology Flashcards

Which sign would most strongly indicate cervical vertebral stenotic myelopathy (Wobbler Syndrome) in a horse?

Answer: Progressive symmetric ataxia worse in the hindlimbs

Wobbler Syndrome typically presents as progressive, symmetric ataxia that is more pronounced in the hindlimbs due to spinal cord compression.

A horse exhibiting head tilt, nystagmus, and circling is most likely affected by which condition?

Answer: Peripheral vestibular disease

Head tilt, nystagmus, and circling toward the affected side are classic signs of peripheral vestibular disease affecting the inner ear or CN VIII.

In equine chiropractic, a 'neurological subluxation complex' refers to:

Answer: Altered joint motion causing neurological interference

A neurological subluxation complex describes a vertebral motion segment with altered mechanics that creates neurological interference without necessarily causing fracture.

Which finding during neurological examination would be a contraindication to chiropractic adjustment in a horse?

Answer: Grade 1 ataxia with no imaging workup completed for a new case

Grade 1 ataxia in a new case without imaging is a relative contraindication because an undiagnosed compressive lesion could be worsened by adjustment.

The Schiff-Sherrington posture in a recumbent horse suggests a lesion at which spinal level?

Answer: Thoracolumbar junction (T2–L3)

Schiff-Sherrington posture (rigid forelimb extension with hindlimb paralysis) indicates a severe thoracolumbar spinal cord lesion releasing inhibitory interneurons to the forelimbs.

Stringhalt in horses is associated with dysfunction of which nervous system component?

Answer: Lower motor neuron (peripheral nerve) pathology

Stringhalt involves hyperflexion of the hindlimb and is associated with peripheral nerve (lower motor neuron) dysfunction, often linked to plant toxicity in Australia and the US.