Long-Term Management of Seizure Disorders Associated with Porencephalic Cysts in Two Cats

Porencephalic cysts are an unusual neurological disease characterized by congenital or acquired cavities within the cerebral hemisphere. Two domesticated, short-haired cats - an 11-month-old, castrated male and a 10-month-old, spayed female - presented with chronic seizure activity after adoption from the street. The seizure episodes were observed upon adoption and became progressively worse. PCR testing for infectious diseases yielded negative results in both cats. The female cat, however, was positive for the feline immunodeficiency virus antibody. In addition, magnetic resonance imaging of the brain demonstrated cystic cavitation within the right hemispheres in both cats. Long-term medical management with anticonvulsant medications was successful and resulted in no recorded complications.