There is a well described syndrome of epilepsy in young Arabian foals of Egyptian lineage. Seizures are usually noticed by 2 months of age (range of 2 days through 6 months), are generalized, and usually lasts for less than a minute, although some may last up to 5 minutes. Post-ictal (post-seizure) signs are marked and include dullness, loss of interest in the mare and no interest in feeding, and blindness. The blindness is typically the last sign to resolve and may persist for hours, days or even weeks. Affected foals respond positively to anti-seizure medication for a minimum of 3 months. Untreated foals also may grow out of the problem by around a year of age, although they are susceptible to seizure-related injuries and possibly long-term behaviour problems. Recently a genetic link was identified.
An affected foal with short-term blindness after seizures
Tags: Foals; Neurology