23(3 DISEASES OF THE NERVOUS SYSTEM 



the pupils and sometimes vomiting. These symptoms of excitement 

 rarely last very long, and generally disappear quickly; although in rare 

 instances, they may last some time without leaving any trace on the gen- 

 eral system. They may, however, alternate with periods of apparent rest 

 to recur again in a short time. The writer has observed this in cases of 

 apoplexy of the brain. In this condition there is dulness, unsteady gait 

 and if there is entire stupor, stertorous respiration is apt to be present 

 with this last symptom. It is doubtful in such cases, if we have to deal 

 with actual hypcrsemia; more likely, a more of less serious alteration in 

 the brain. 



Therapeutics. — Bleeding, as a rule, is contraindicated on account of 

 the debilitated condition of most dogs when they develop hyperaemia. 

 We would, however, recommend enemas (soap and water) and purgatives 

 with quick action, such as sulphate of magnesium in large dcses, senna 

 leaves, or castor oil. Cold compresses (ice bags) around the head are also 

 useful, while violent purgatives such as croton oil, are not advisable, as 

 they excite the animal, produce great irritation and generally do more 

 harm than good. The animal should be put in a cool room and kept as 

 quiet as possible, avoiding excitement or heat and also feed the animal 

 very light. In cases where marked symptoms show themselves, an 

 injection of morphine is generally indicated. 



Anaemia of the Brain. 



Etiology. — The most common cause of anaemia of the brain, is im- 

 poverished blood, acute hemorrhage, prolonged debilitating disease, or 

 from some obstruction of the arterial system, such as tumors, hemor- 

 rhages, or inflammatory exudations within the skull; also compression of 

 the carotid arteries by emphysema, and in some instances from contrac- 

 tion of the small arteries of the brain, caused by excitement. Chronic 

 anaemia of the brain may be caused by the presence of intercranial tumors, 

 or hemorrhage, chronic hydrocephalus pachj'^meningitis. 



Pathological Anatomy. — The white substance in rare instances has a 

 few bloody points. As a rule, however, the brain appears on section dull 

 white, the gray matter being unusually bright, without any trace of col- 

 oration. The meninges and coverings of the brain may possess their nor- 

 mal quantity of blood, even in intense anaemia. 



Clinical Symptoms. — Acute anaemia, especially when it has been 

 caused by hemorrhages, is indicated by a small, weak pulse, dilatation of 

 the pupils and a coldness of the extremities, with attacks of dizziness, and 

 loss of conciousness. Convulsions are rarely present in chronic anaemia 

 of the brain, and very often stupidit}', (luivering of the muscles, great 



