Neurology is the branch of medicine dealing with the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves. Common disorders seen by neurologists include seizures, brain tumors, meningitis, inflamed nerves, herniated discs, age related cognitive dysfunction, and congenital problems. MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) and electrodiagnostic testing are common diagnostic tools. Our Neurology service has many studies involving these and other disorders as well as new treatment options, so please check back often to see if your pet may qualify to enroll in one of our studies.
*NEW (6/2/23) - Dogs with MUE (Meningitis of Unknown Etiology) of the Brain
This study is to evaluate cyclosporine vs leflunomide (plus prednisone) as treatments for MUE. Dog will be enrolled after their diagnosis is confirmed. The study will pay for the medication up the the first recheck at 6 weeks and the recheck CSF tap and anesthesia at 6 weeks. Owners will be responsible for the remainder of the costs.
If interested, please contact UW Neurology at 608-263-7600 or neurology@vetmed.wisc.edu.
Feline Cognitive Dysfunction + Biomarkers
FCD Biomarker Flyer
This part is no longer enrolling as of 6/14/2023
The first part of this study is measuring a specific biomarker to see if it is relevant to cats with cognitive dysfunction. We are recruiting 85 cats, aged 12 years and over. These cats will have a neurologic and ophthalmic exam along with samples collected for blood pressure, complete blood count, chemistry, T4, biomarker, and urinalysis, all FREE! There is a behavior questionnaire we will need filled out about your cat. This will all be done at a single visit. Cats can have any pre-existing health condition except brain tumors.
For more information or to enroll your cat, please contact Amy Elbe, CVT, LAT at 608-890-3484.
We are still enrolling post-mortem cats!
Feline Cognitive Dysfunction Flyer - Post-Mortem
Feline CDF Post-Mortem Consent
Feline_cognitive_decline_survey
The goal of our research is to understand the brain and cognitive changes that occur in our ever-growing geriatric and aging cat population. By studying these changes, we are hoping to be able to optimize diagnostic and treatment options available for cats with signs consistent with feline cognitive dysfunction. There is NO COST to participate in this study.
We are looking for any cat over 12 years of age that is being euthanized for any reason. They will need to come to UW Veterinary Care for euthanasia. If you agree to have your cat participate in this study, then before euthanasia, a neurologic exam, ophthalmic exam, non-invasive blood pressure, bloodwork (under sedation), and a questionnaire regarding your cat's behavior will be performed. However, if your cat becomes stressed or anxious during any of that testing, that portion of the study will not be completed. After euthanasia, samples of brain tissue will be collected. Private or communal cremation may be elected after the necropsy.
For more information regarding this study, please contact Dr. Starr Cameron or Amy Elbe, CVT, LAT at 608-890-3484.
DOGs with BRAIN TUMORS
Canine Brain Tumor PET-MRI Flyer
The Small Animal Neurology Service and Diagnostic Imaging Service are enrolling canine patients with brain tumors in a study evaluating the use of PET-MRI for identifying and diagnosing cancers in dogs.
This study will provide better understanding of this imaging tool in dogs with brain tumors. Findings from this study may provide veterinary medicine the ability to tell the difference between certain brain tumor types and help determine how aggressive tumors are.
Following completion of the PET-MRI, you will receive a credit of $1000 on your medical account.
For more information regarding this study, please contact Dr. Samantha Loeber, Dr. Kate Jones, or Amy Elbe, CVT, LAT at (608) 890-3484.