Spinal Tap Results

Got a call from the neurologist’s assistant today stating that Stella’s CSF tap (Cerebrospinal Fluid) results were normal; no meningitis or other viral infection.  We were told there was an abnormality but that it is linked to Stella’s protruding discs as the neurologist indicated would probably happen.  I asked the assistant how we are going to proceed going forward and she said we would need to speak with the neurologist on Monday as she is off today.  For now, we are to keep Stella on the Gabapentin 100mg until further notice.  We informed the assistant that we are giving Stella Gabapentin twice a day as opposed to the prescribed three times a day due to our schedule and the fact that two of the doses would be fairly close together.  She confirmed with us that it is better to give the doses only twice a day rather than have two of the doses be only a few hours apart.

Meanwhile we have noticed the Gabapentin is making Stella fairly loopy.  She seems disoriented and has not been as animated.

Later in the day I called our regular vet to get her opinion on treatment options.  Dr. A said she wants to defer all of Stella’s neurologic care to the neurologist.  Once the neuro has the treatment course that is right for Stella she, our regular vet, will maintain the treatment from that point with medication dispensing, follow-up bloodwork, etc.

We will speak with the neurologist on Monday (7/1) and find out the treatment course and suspected diagnosis.