VSA offers a dedicated neurology service, led by Dr Sam Khan, BVetMed, PhD, MRCVS.
Sam graduated from the Royal Veterinary College in the United Kingdom and completed his internship, PhD, and neurology residency at the University of Cambridge. His research background includes spinal cord injury, intervertebral disc disease, and immune mediated neurological disorders.
Neurological conditions can be complex and difficult to diagnose, and assessment by a neurologist can make a significant difference to outcomes.
Neurological conditions can present with a wide range of clinical signs including pain, weakness, seizures, altered behaviors and movement abnormalities and the close integration of this service across our specialist departments enables us to support the most complex neurological cases.
I strongly believe in patient-led, individualised care. Every patient and family is different, so I enjoy working with owners to understand what matters most to them and making decisions together about the best approach for their pet. I’m proud to be part of Veterinary Specialists Aotearoa and really value working alongside such a knowledgeable, supportive and compassionate team who always strive for the best outcome for our patients.
Advanced Electrodiagnostics
VSA has a new electrodiagnostic system enabling faster more accurate assessment of neuromuscular conditions.
This advanced technology supports nerve conduction studies, electromyography (EMG), and evoked potential testing, providing our specialists with valuable diagnostic information to assess nerve and muscle function. This enhanced capability allows VSA to deliver a more comprehensive and efficient diagnostic service for patients with suspected or confirmed neuromuscular disease.
Case study - Freddie
Freddie presented to our emergency team following a number of collapse-like episodes which were precipitated by excitement. He was subsequently referred to our Neurology Department, where he was assessed by our neurologist, Dr Sam Khan.
Following a thorough neurological examination and careful observation of Freddie’s episodes, Dr Khan was able to recognise a pattern consistent with narcolepsy.
Narcolepsy is a sleep disorder that can cause muscle weakness or collapse, often triggered by strong emotions such as excitement. Although it can look very alarming, the episodes are usually brief, and patients quickly return to normal.
A comprehensive range of investigations including bloods, liver function tests, infectious disease tests, CT and spinal tap was undertaken to exclude an underlying cause of Freddie’s episodes. All of Freddie’s results were within normal limits, helping to rule out a number of potential underlying causes.
Freddie was subsequently started on imipramine. Since beginning the treatment, Freddie has since done very well, allowing him to get back to enjoying life.
Freddie’s case highlights the importance of careful observation and thorough investigation when presented with unusual collapse-like episodes and demonstrates how recognising the less typical signs of neurological disorders can help lead to an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Getting a referral
To access our neurology service, contact your local vet, who can refer you to VSA.
For more information, visit the neurology services page or contact the team on 09 320 5645.