Abnormalities of the brainstem auditory response of the dog associated with equilibrium deficit and seizure

The brainstem auditory evoked response (BAER) was recorded from 20 dogs, 10 exhibiting vestibular deficit, and 10 presented with a history of seizures. Two dogs exhibited both types of signs. Abnormalities of the BAER, prolonged interwave latency, were seen in 8 of the 10 animals with vestibular problems, and in 7 of the 10 animals with seizure history. Several different diagnosis were associated with BAER abnormalities in both groups of animals. In 55.5% of the cases exhibiting abnormalities of the BAER, postmortem evidence of brainstem pathology was not detected. The electroencephalogram (EEG) was normal in three instances of abnormalities of the BAER. The BAER was normal in three dogs with abnormalities of the EEG. The BAER is presented as a useful diagnostic tool for brain lesions in animals with vestibular deficit and seizure history, but appears most useful when used in conjuction with the EEG. Correlations of abnormalities of the BAER and clinical course of disease are discussed.Publication No. 1707, School of Veterinary Medicine, Auburn University, AL 36849