Neurological Cases- New Treatments IVMA 2011
Paula J Broadfoot DVM
Broadfoot Veterinary Clinic
Van Buren, AR
Neurological disease is very common in the United States. We have been seeing increasing numbers of
patents with serious neuro diseases in our practice, many of which have been treated suppressively, with steroids
and nonsteroidal's, with the result that they have become chronically ill, due to unresolved toxins trapped in the
tissues. Why is suppression so successful? Partially, because we tend to equate cessation or mitigation of
symptoms with cure, and by so doing we fail to see the movement of disease processes through the body, and
thus perceive progression of symptoms as random events instead of as patterns of suppression. In addition there is
a tremendous patient demand for the “quick fix”, as people are unwilling use takes the time that is required for true
healing.
Interestingly, however, of the 2500 treatments offered in conventional medicine only 13% are considered
beneficial to the patient; 23% are likely beneficial; 8% are a trade-off between benefits and harm; 6% are unlikely to
be beneficial; 4% are likely to be ineffective or even harmful, and a startling 45% have unknown effectiveness.
So we will explore another approach, via the use of Homotoxicology, by first exploring case history
presentation. When a patient is presented, there are pertinent questions to ask, which include:
1.
external influences 2. initial manifestation 3. Concomitant visceral symptoms 4. Impairment of general health
5. Reduction of mobility 6. Previous diseases 7. Previous vaccinations 8. Allergies 9. Surgeries 10. Dental
problems
11. Former treatments
12. Family history
For any disease process to occur, there first must be a trigger or set of triggers which can include such diverse
things as stress or emotional problems, chemicals (there are an estimated 87,000 new chemicals in the
environment, according to the EPA), and an ever increasing number of viruses and resistant bacterial forms. Dr.
Reckeweg, a German physician, recognized the evolution of disease and delineated this, in his Six Phase Table of
disease. Working from the data presented by Hans Selye, he described regulation phenomenon of T h1 & Th2
phases of Inflammation. This is a type of wave form, which, if physiologically correct, eventually has lower peaks
and valleys, until the body reaches a steady healing state.
This healing state is vastly impaired by the overuse of steroids and NonSteroidals. These drugs have serious
effects on mitochondria , brain tissue, insulin metabolism, gut and liver, insulin metabolism, Immune system and
matrix regulation. One of the more serious issues is the effect on the tight junctions of the gastrointestinal tract.
There are three layers of defense in the intestinal tract, The first is maintained by the probiotics which also
serve to digest food and create part of the mucosal barrier, the second layer is defined by the gut wall itself and the
tight junctions. The third layer is comprised of a tightly packed later of white blood cells. Any foreign particles which
breach the tight junctions set off an alarm within the white blood cell layer. Sterols increase the tight junctions
permeability, thereby increasing the load on the matrix. This in turn, creates a hepatic overload, requiring an
increased amount of work on the part of the liver to remove or neutralize the added toxicants, which is followed by
interstitial toxicity.
If we look at Nervous System as it relates to the Six Phase Table, we find the progress of disease for
the peripheral or central nervous system, ranging from neurasthenia, malaise, & exhaustion, in the excretion phase,
and headaches, dizziness, encephalitis, and meningitis, in the inflammatory phase. Cerebrosclerosis, TIAs,
dyslexia, convulsions, & migraine are found in the matrix phases, and more severe cellular disease manifest as
Parkinson's, epilepsy, cerebral ischemia, encephalomyelitis , dementia and Alzheimer's, then progressing
ultimately into the cancer phases of neuroma, glioma, glial sarcoma, and meningioma. Our goal ultimately, is to
intercept these diseases before they become cellular, while in the humoral or matrix phases. Therapies of interest
for Connective tissue regulation, include Thyroidea compositum, which regulates the matrix. Thalamus compositum
and Tonsilla compositum, help to regulate the adrenals. After several weeks, drainage can begin with the
components of the detox kit: Lymphomyosot, Berberis, and Nux Vomica Homaccord.
For various forms of neurologic inflammation, we can employ injections of Traumeel,& Gelsemium
Homaccord for head and neck pain, Spigelon for head pain, Spascupreel for spasms. NeuralgoRheum has been
immensely helpful for rheumatic pains, and we use it often for back/ disc issues. For the more chronic cases, we
often use Zeel & Discus compositum. These can be given as injections- in the manner of an autosanguis, in
trigger points, acupuncture points, or even sub-q. In addition, they can be given orally, along w/ therapies such as
Rhododendroneel, and Rheuma Heel (for cold wet weather neuralgia), or Colocynthis for lower back,. In addition,
there are topical preparations of Traumeel, Zeel and Lymphomyosot.
It is critical that we support mitochondrial function so that the body has enough energy to repair, by replacing
amino acids , supplementing vitamins B1,2, 5, 6 12, Mg, Mn, Ve, Biotin, Coenzyme Q10. We find needed help in
the form of the catalysts, such as Glyoxal, Coenzyme and Ubichinon. Other tissue regulation comes from
Molybdan, which is a mineral donor, and BHI Rendimax, which alleviates matrix acidity. A study has been done on
Coenzyme and Ubichinon “Homeopathic Treatment of Chronic and Degenerative Diseases Due to Disturbances in
Intermediary Metabolism” Biologische Medizin. Vol. 30, No. 1, 2001. pg. 20-23, which showed that in chronic
disorders with metabolic problems that 79% of patients experienced good to very good results. Ultimately, many
diseases have “mitochondriosis” as their base.
Our foray into the immune quadrant gives us possible remedies, from the supportive, such as Gripp Heel and
Engystol, to therapeutics for the immune dysfunction, like Galium Heel, Tonsilla compositum, &Catlaysts.
For toxic patients, we look to support from BHI Body Pure and Lymphomyosot, and add the
regenerative capacity of Hepar Compositum (liver), Solidago compositum (kidney, adrenals), and Pulsatilla
compositum. Catalysts are also critical here, particularly Glyoxal compositum. And we can use components of the
Detox kit to aid our movement of toxins.
In our practice we use a 10 week Organ Regeneration, consisting of Hepar/ Coenzyme/ Solidago/ Ubichinon/
Thyroidea (other compositae as indicated- e.g. Cerebrum comp, Placenta comp, Glyoxal). We give 10 tablets of
each. One tablet given daily, in a 5 day rotation. i.e. Hepar on Monday, Coenzyme on Tuesday, Solidago on
Wednesday, etc. Then, we do 2 Days of Detox kit bid- Saturday and Sunday, (preferably as an autosanguis)
Treatment possibilities in the degenerative quadrant, range from the supportive, such as Selenium homaccord,
Traumeel (which helps to regenerate the sulfide enzymes), and Galium- Heel. Tissue regeneration: from BHI
enzyme, Catalysts: Ubichinon, and Cerebrum compositum. Galium-Heel is a cellular cleanser, containing Betula
alba’s leaves which contain saponins, w/ diuretic properties. We also find Placenta compositum and Aesculus
comp as useful adjuncts to improve microvascular function, which by extension, accelerates healing of neural tissue
Also consider the use of Testis comp. & Ginseng comp as there are many revitalizing factors in these. I have used
them often!!
Acute Lumbar IVDD Case:
•
Tapper 4 yr old neutered, Long haired Dachshund, originally Seen by local veterinarian in Springfield,
MO. RX: Steroids for several days. Presented w/ ataxia, lumbar pain and hyperaesthesia, deep pain present .
His initial Treatment: Injection therapy: Traumeel, Discus comp, Spascupreel, Neuralgo Rheum IV, and
locally, just dorsal to region of hyperaesthesia . A Homotox take home Cocktail: Colocynthis/ Arnica/ Gelsemium
Ha/ Aesculus comp./ Traumeel Vetri-Disc one capsule bid, Stemplex one-half capsule at night, Pregnenolone
30 mg sid
•
Tapper’s response to therapy was good, and occurred w/in a few days. He had a mild relapse in
about 2 weeks, with overuse. I have also used this regimen successfully, in downer dogs with NO DEEP Pain, so
don’t give up on them! I often use Traumeel/ Lymphomyosot gel topically, with DMSO as an overpaint .
Cervical Disc Disease:
•
Cervical disc disease is a frequent disorder in dog, seen in small breeds, particularly
chondrodystrophics. Dachshunds, Beagles, Poodles, Spaniels, Shih Tzus, Pekingese, and Chihuahuas are most
often affected. Usually patients are older than 2 years with a mean of 6-7 years. Disc disease is rare in dogs less
than one year. There is no sex predilection. Doberman and other large breeds (e.g., Rottweiler) suffer from
cervical disc disease (Hansen type II disc degeneration) as part of the syndrome of caudal cervical
spondylomyelopathy (CCSM, wobbler syndrome)
•
Cervicogenic Case: Smiley 7 yr old neutered male. 8/14/06 Presented w/ history of a year long
episodic pain and discomfort, particularly when leashed. Symptoms: Initial episode- pain of cervical spinal area on
flexion. We suspected a trauma of unknown origin? This dog had been on Doxycycline long term, due to a
previous bout w/ Ehrlichiosis. T 101.8 CBC & Chem WNL. Pain was noted on flexion of neck. Our impression
of patient suggested a “headache and Rt ear was particularly sensitive.
•
Our Initial Therapy Engystol & Discus compositum mixed with Spigelon IV & Autosanguis. He was
sent home w/ Autosanguis cocktail: Traumeel/ Arnica/ Cimicifuga/ Gelsemium & given Spascupreel tablets as
needed.
•
Two weeks later, Smiley had a chiropractic exam, and was found to have pathology consistent w/ rads
in: C4-5, & L2-4, along w/ issues at the base of Sacrum w/ pelvic rotation. An adjustment improved Smiley’s
condition, in addition to homotox. Glycoflex II long term was prescribed, for ongoing support. To date, Smiley has
done well.
Spinal Cord Trauma
•
Spinal Cord Injuries. The normal architecture of spinal cord can be radically disrupted by injury, and
can result from contusion, compression, penetration or maceration of the spinal cord. The trauma results in cell
death- neurons, oligodendrocytes, astrocytes and precursor cells. Any resulting cavities and cysts may interrupt
descending and ascending axonal tracts, though circumferential white matter is often spared. Additional structure
and function are lost through active secondary processes (e.g., ongoing apoptosis of oligodendrocytes and loss of
myelin). Demyelinated axons are observed up to a decade in human SCI, and the extent to which these axons
survive unmyelinated or become remyelinated by central or peripheral myelin is being studied. Resident and
invading inflammatory cells (including neutrophils, microglia, macrophages and T cells) can have a range of
destructive and reparative roles. Injury results in glial scarring, which involves reactive astrocytes, glial progenitors,
microglia and macrophages, fibroblasts and Schwann cells. The scar is often oriented perpendicular to the
neuraxis and appears impenetrable & contains secreted and transmembrane molecular inhibitors of axon growth.
Progressive expansion of the injury across more than one segment (syringomyelia) can also occur over months or
years, sometimes proving fatal.
Lumbar IVDD Chronic Progressive Case:
•
Chase- spayed Australian Cattle Dog was presented initially in 9/03 with hind limb weakness, normal
temp, but with history of tick bite several days previously. Had become progressively more lethargic over past 3
days, with a tense abdomen & constipation.
•
CBC/ Chem- WNL Initial therapy: Doxycycline for probable Ehrlichiosis, Acetylator (VetriScience)
for gut re-regulation, and an enema to relieve the constipation. A homotox formula we fondly call “Grumpy Gut”
p.r.n. (Nux Vomica, Veratrum, Berberis, Podophyllum), was given for the GI issues. An initial response was seen,
but a relapse of hind limb weakness occurred within a month. One month follow up, on October 6, 2003, we found
persistence of the Hind limb weakness, with the Left hind leg “dragging” when ambulatory, Left popliteal lymph
node enlarged, pressure and abrasion sore on left hock. No other systemic signs were seen, and appetite and
attitude was normal. Rads revealed bony alterations in lumbar spine- osteophytes, bridging, IVDD
•
Therapy: Discus comp mixed w/ Traumeel as an injection. Cocktail: Traumeel/ Arnica/
Lymphomyosot + Echinacea comp forte
Pregnenolone 30 mg sid,
Glycoflex/ Arthrisoothe bid
Bandaged hocks to reduce trauma
October 10, 2003, as she was completely down, no deep pain bilaterally & Incontinent of urine and stool.
Muscle atrophy was becoming apparent, so she was referred to OSU for spinal myelogram, which was not done,
because the prognosis was very poor, according to the clinicians. The Neuro report showed: Bilateral patellar
reflexes 4+/4, Increased muscle tone of pelvic limbs, and Hyperreflexic panniculus reflex up to T-13
An aside: OSU wrote on the records that I had given, in additon to Doxycycline, an injection of steroid and a
script for Prednisolone. Maybe they thought Pregnenolone was a mis-spelling!
Chase- Ongoing Progress: 2months later she was using hind limbs, able to walk, but still dragging left hind
leg. She had a local lymph node swollen on that leg. 2 yrs. later- 10/05 was treated for trauma/ strain, which
occurred when she was chasing a ball! She has had some intermittent issues with urinary tract disease,
presumably d/t poor muscle tone of the lower body
OSU Ruleouts in this case were Hansen Type I IVDD, Fibrocartilaginous emboli, Neoplasia, Inflammation/
Trauma. Their Recommendation: Buy a cart.
This dog was still ambulatory, 8 yrs out.
Megaesophagus Case:
• Ginger Blue presented 11/8/05 4 yr old canine Beagle mix spayed, Slightly overweight, previous rescue
dog. Diagnosed elsewhere w/ megaesophagus , and had recently developed a “trismus” or involuntary unilateral
“grin” when stroked on the side of the neck.Exam also revealed an asymmetry of the neck, near juncture of neck
and shoulder- possibly a spasm, mass, or site of old injury. Non painful. Very Hyperaesthetic in lumbar region.
• R/O Lead poisoning, et.al., trauma, paraneoplastic syndromes
• Ginger Blue- Treatment: Placenta comp/ Coenzyme comp/ Neuro-injeel IV and local, adjacent to spinal
column Cocktail- Lymph/ Galium AS w/ Myelin Sheath nosode Tablets: Gastricumeel/ Spascupreel
• Ginger Blue’s response to therapy was very good, as regards the megaesophagus symptoms, the
involuntary facial grimacing, and the spinal asymmetry.
• 3/22/06 Presented for recheck & skin therapy for ongoing allergies
• Treatment: Hepar/ Cutis/ Coenzyme AS Detox / Gelsemium cocktail AS w/ Mucosa tablets 3X/ week.
Hepeel/ Enzyme tablets- one each at night
• Arabinogalactan powder for 30 days, SBGA/ Probiotics/ Enzymes/ GlutaDMG for long term use
Paralysis/ Paresis/ Cardio Case:
Little Bit 15 yr old Collie mix male 4/3/07 Presented for arthritis, weakness, Lethargy . Aged patient w/
Cardiovascular disease. Heartworm positive- many larvae, positive on HW Snap test.
•
Initial Therapy: Co Q10 @ 50-60 mg/ day, Avermectin @ 50 mcg/kg, Arthrisoothe or Glycoflex II for
arthritic symptoms
•
Cactus/ Cralonin/ Aurumheel/ Tanacetheel
•
Traumeel/ Arnica/ Lymphomyosot
•
Little Bit- 6 month followup: Paretic, completely down, weak in hind limbs. Incontinent of urine and
stool T 101 Bright and alert, compared to previous exam
•
Little Bit- TX: Traumeel/ Placenta comp IV, AS
Cocktail: Inflammation combo/ Aesculus
comp/Gelsemium Ha w/ Myelin Sheath nosode Pregnenolone 30 mg sid Continue Cardiac cocktail
•
Little Bit- May 08 This patient’s general condition, demeanor, and motor skills improved markedly, to
the point where he was a vastly different dog. He turned 16 the following April, and we eventually euthanized him,
but the owners are grateful for every day he was with them.
Resources
•
Practitioner’s Handbook of Homotoxicology
•
Biotherapeutic Index
•
Homotoxicology and Ground Regulation (Heine)
•
The Fundamentals of Homotoxicology (Herzberger)
•
Inflammation Means Healing (Van Brandt)
•
Introduction to Bioregulatory Medicine
(Smit, O’Byrne, et.al.)
Integrating Complementary Medicine into Veterinary Practice- Goldstein, Broadfoot, Palmquist,
Wen,Johnston, Fougere, Romans Wiley Blackwell
http://www.wiley.com/WileyCDA/WileyTitle/productCd-0813820200.html