What is Episodic Falling Syndrome?
This disease causes episodes of spastic muscle contraction in response to stress, excitement, or exercise. EFS is caused by deficiency of a protein called brevican, which has a role in controlling the speed and rate at which specific neurons in the brain and spinal cord fire. Loss of brevican leads to abnormal bursts of neuronal activity, leading to the downstream effect of spastic muscle contraction.
About Episodic Falling Syndrome
When signs & symptoms develop in affected dogs Signs first appear in puppies.
How vets diagnose this condition Genetic testing, blood work, neurological tests, and clinical signs can be used to diagnose this condition.
How this condition is treated
Affected dogs usually recover within an hour of an episode, though the stiff limbs and gait may persist for several hours. However, they may overheat during an episode due to the uncontrollable muscle contractions, which could be life threatening. Medications are available to help control symptoms.
Actions to take if your dog is affected
This disease causes episodes of spastic muscle contraction in response to stress, excitement, or exercise. EFS is caused by deficiency of a protein called brevican, which has a role in controlling the speed and rate at which specific neurons in the brain and spinal cord fire. Loss of brevican leads to abnormal bursts of neuronal activity, leading to the downstream effect of spastic muscle contraction.
About Episodic Falling Syndrome
When signs & symptoms develop in affected dogs Signs first appear in puppies.
How vets diagnose this condition Genetic testing, blood work, neurological tests, and clinical signs can be used to diagnose this condition.
How this condition is treated
Affected dogs usually recover within an hour of an episode, though the stiff limbs and gait may persist for several hours. However, they may overheat during an episode due to the uncontrollable muscle contractions, which could be life threatening. Medications are available to help control symptoms.
Actions to take if your dog is affected
- Minimizing exposure to typical triggers may help reduce clinical signs. Please follow the recommendations from your veterinarian.
Karen Dennehy & Natalija Zeljic
Small World Puppies (Taurunum Angels Kennel)
Small World Puppies (Taurunum Angels Kennel)