ACVIM delivers a consensus statement on managing status epilepticus and cluster seizures in dogs and cats.
Seizure emergencies, encompassing status epilepticus (SE) and cluster seizures (CS), pose significant challenges in veterinary medicine. These disorders exhibit complex pathophysiology, rapid drug resistance, and a self-sustaining nature, leading to high morbidity and mortality rates in affected dogs and cats. Addressing the pressing need for standardized treatment approaches, a panel of specialists, formed by the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine, endeavored to establish evidence-based guidelines for the management of seizure emergencies.
Closing the Knowledge Gap
The lack of official guidelines has contributed to considerable variations in the treatment of seizure emergencies, leaving veterinarians to navigate these critical situations with limited consensus. Recognizing the urgency of this issue, a panel of five specialists embarked on a mission to consolidate existing evidence and establish consensus clinical recommendations for the management of SE and CS in dogs and cats.
Evidence-Based Approach
The panel’s methodology involved a comprehensive review of peer-reviewed literature, drawing upon veterinary pharmacokinetic studies, basic research, and insights from human medicine. While the majority of evidence centered around first-line management, particularly the use of benzodiazepines through various administration routes, there was a notable scarcity of data regarding the management of seizure emergencies in cats compared to dogs.
Key Recommendations
- Disease management consensus emphasized the importance of an early, rapid, and stage-based treatment approach, with interventions ideally possessing moderate to high recommendations from the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine (ACVIM).
- The guidelines advocate for a multifaceted approach to successful seizure emergency management. This involves not only the prompt and stage-based administration of interventions but also addresses the pathophysiological obstacles that may lead to drug resistance.
- The guidelines underscore the significance of managing complications and investigating underlying causes associated with seizure emergencies.
Clinical Relevance and Future Perspectives
These evidence-based guidelines can result in better outcomes as far as seizure emergency management in veterinary medicine is concerned. By adopting a structured and informed approach, veterinarians can now navigate these challenging situations with greater confidence. More information regarding these guidelines can be found here.
As veterinary professionals continue to grapple with seizure emergencies, these guidelines provide a solid foundation for improving the well-being of canine and feline patients.
