Electrophysiology in neuromuscular disease

Electrophysiological evaluation is the cornerstone of the diagnostic work-up for animals with peripheral nerve, muscle, or neuromuscular junction disease. It provides invaluable information about the severity, distribution, and character of the disease process occurring in a patient. With recent advances in the field of veterinary electrodiagnosis, we are far more able do provide detailed, useful information about neuromuscular disease in small animals, which will eventually lead to a better understanding of pathophysiology and thus, appropriate changes. This article is designed to provide insight into the importance and limitations of the various testing procedures now available in veterinary electrophysiology and to provide the reader with an understanding of the theory behind each of these procedures. This article also provides a guideline for the interpretation and clinical significance of each of the available tests.