Question 1

How many neurology questions are on the NAVLE?

Accepted Answer

Neurology questions appear across multiple species categories on the NAVLE, typically accounting for roughly 15–25 questions in total across the exam. Because they span every species block, mastering neurolocalization pays dividends throughout the entire test.

Question 2

What is the most important neurological concept to know for the NAVLE?

Accepted Answer

The single most tested concept is the UMN vs LMN distinction. Knowing whether a lesion is upper or lower motor neuron — based on reflex tone, muscle mass, and gait quality — immediately narrows the lesion location and the differential diagnosis list.

Question 3

What is the neurolocalization algorithm for the NAVLE?

Accepted Answer

Work from the head caudally: Forebrain (seizures, altered mentation, contralateral deficits) ? Brainstem (cranial nerve deficits plus long-tract signs, altered consciousness) ? Cerebellum (dysmetria, intention tremor, NO weakness) ? C1–C5 (UMN all 4 limbs) ? C6–T2 (LMN thoracic limbs, UMN pelvic limbs, Horner's) ? T3–L3 (UMN pelvic limbs only, normal thoracic limbs) ? L4–S3 (LMN pelvic limbs, perineal reflex loss).

Question 4

How do you distinguish peripheral from central vestibular disease on the NAVLE?

Accepted Answer

Both cause head tilt, nystagmus, and ataxia falling toward the side of the lesion. Peripheral (CN VIII or middle/inner ear) typically shows horizontal nystagmus that does not change with head position and no proprioceptive deficits. Central (brainstem) may show vertical or positional nystagmus, cranial nerve deficits beyond CN VIII, and postural reaction deficits. Old dog vestibular syndrome is peripheral and idiopathic with an excellent prognosis.

Question 5

What is the first-line treatment for status epilepticus in dogs and cats?

Accepted Answer

Diazepam (IV, IO, or rectal) is first-line for acute seizure termination. If seizures continue, phenobarbital IV is the next step. Levetiracetam is increasingly used as an adjunct or alternative, especially when phenobarbital is contraindicated. Any continuous seizure lasting more than 5 minutes or repeated seizures without return to baseline consciousness constitutes status epilepticus requiring emergency treatment.

Question 6

What causes EPM in horses and how is it diagnosed?

Accepted Answer

Equine protozoal myeloencephalitis (EPM) is caused by Sarcocystis neurona, acquired by ingesting opossum-contaminated feed or water. Diagnosis combines clinical signs (asymmetric ataxia and weakness, often with cranial nerve involvement) with CSF or serum SAG antibody testing. Treatment is with ponazuril or diclazuril. A negative serum titer makes EPM less likely but does not rule it out.

Question 7

What differentiates tetanus from botulism on the NAVLE?

Accepted Answer

Both are caused by Clostridium toxins but produce opposite motor signs. Tetanus toxin (tetanospasmin) blocks inhibitory glycine interneurons, causing spastic paralysis — risus sardonicus, trismus, and flehmen posture in horses. Botulism toxin blocks acetylcholine release at the neuromuscular junction, causing flaccid LMN paralysis with progressive weakness. Botulism is rapidly fatal without antitoxin; tetanus is treated with penicillin, antitoxin, and muscle relaxants.

NAVLE Neurology High-Yield Guide: Nervous System Questions Decoded

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Everything you need to pass the NAVLE

NAVLE Neurology High-Yield Guide: Nervous System Questions Decoded

Create a free account to keep reading

Everything you need to pass the NAVLE

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