ABSTRACT
CLINICAL EXAMINATION OF THE CENTRAL NERVOUS SYSTEM It is important to perform a complete clinical examination in order that important clinical signs are not overlooked. Rectal temperature is not an useful guide to infectious conditions of the CNS, as most diseases are afebrile. Early cases of neonatal bacterial meningitis, which are obtunded at veterinary examination (341), may present with a normal rectal temperature. Conversely, muscle activity and seizure activity later in the clinical course (342) may raise the rectal temperature. Respiratory function may be influenced considerably by acid-base disturbances. Digestive tract dysfunction may be influenced by fluid and acid-base disturbances associated with cranial nerve (CN) V and VII deficits, which cause loss of saliva as observed in listeriosis.
