Congenital renal hypoplasia and contralateral kidney failure in a giant otter (Pteronura brasiliensis) ex situ in Southeastern Brazil

Renal hypoplasia is incomplete development of the kidneys, in which fewer than normal numbers of nephrons are present at birth. This report is the first of these conditions in mustelids. A female adult giant otter (Pteronura brasiliensis), ex situ, presented clinically an unusual behavior with prostration, anorexia, hiding in the shelter, ataxia, paraparesis, and death in a clinical course of one day. At the postmortem exam, the left kidney was markedly enlarged and pale and the right kidney was severely reduced and had mild to moderate capsular thickening. Histologically, the left kidney had mineralization, proliferation of fibrous connective tissue and a mild neutrophilic infiltrate. The right kidney presented a reduced number of glomeruli, tubular atrophy and an increase in fibrous connective tissue, which were findings compatible with congenital kidney hypoplasia. Due the clinical condition of the animal, gross and microscopic findings, the cause of death was established as kidney failure induced by renal hypoplasia.(AU)

Incidência de malformações congênitas em cães neonatos provenientes de canis de Belo Horizonte e região metropolitana ­ Minas Gerais, Brasil / Incidence of congenital malformations in neonatal dogs from kennels from Belo Horizonte and metropolitan region ­ Minas Gerais, Brazil

As malformações ou defeitos congênitos são alterações estruturais ou funcionais de órgãos e estruturas presentes ao nascimento. Essas alterações têm um grande impacto sobre a mortalidade e viabilidade neonatal e nem sempre são investigadas a fundo. O presente estudo descreve a incidência de malformações congênitas em cães neonatos provenientes de canis da cidade de Belo Horizonte e região metropolitana ­ Minas Gerais, Brasil. No total, foram avaliadas 170 ninhadas com 745 neonatos e as malformações foram presentes em 21% (36/170) delas. Dos 745 neonatos, 6,4% (48/745) possuíam algum tipo de defeito congênito. Foram descritos 13 tipos de malformações, registradas em 50% (6/12) das 12 raças avaliadas. Das matrizes, 6% (11/170) apresentavam infecção por hemoparasitas, 2% (3/170) possuíam dermatopatias não diagnosticadas e 3% (5/170) estavam com suspeita de hemoparasitoses, mas não foram testadas. A exposição materna a agentes teratogênicos aconteceu em 3,5% (6/170) dos casos. Todos os casos de malformações foram diagnosticados em cães de raças puras, fortalecendo a hipótese de causas genéticas.(AU)

Congenital malformations or defects are functional or structural alterations of organs and structures present at birth. These abnormalities have a major impact on neonatal mortality and viability and aren't always thoroughly investigated. The present study described the incidence of congenital malformations in canine neonates originated from kennels from Belo Horizonte and metropolitan region ­ Minas Gerais, Brazil. In total, 170 litters with 745 neonates were evaluated and malformations were observed in 21% (36/170) of them. From 745 evaluated neonates, 6% (48/745) had one or more congenital defects. 13 types of malformations were described, registered in 50¨% (6/12) of the 12 evaluated breeds. 6% (11/170) of the bitches were infected by hemoparasites, 2% (3/170) had undiagnosed skin diseases and 3% (5/170) had suspicion of hemoparasitosis but weren't tested. Maternal exposure to teratogenic agents happened in 3,5% (6/170) of the cases. All malformation cases happened in pure dog breeds, strengthening the hypothesis of genetic origins.(AU)

Presumptive diagnosis of spina bifida in canine patient / Diagnóstico presuntivo de espinha bífida em paciente canino / Diagnóstico presuntivo de espina bífida en un paciente canino

The aim of this report is to describe a presumptive diagnosis of spina bifida in a mixed breed dog, due to previous diagnostic inconsistencies. Spina bifida is an uncommon congenital anomaly characterized by poor bone formation due to incomplete closure orthe absence of the dorsal arch of the vertebral structure during the process of embryogenesis. Animals with this condition may have difficulties in the locomotion process, which constantly threatens the quality and survival of those affected. Spina bifidacan present itself in four different forms and degrees. A 5-month-old mixed breed dog was assisted at a veterinary clinic in Conselheiro Lafaiete/MG with difficulties in the locomotion process and previous diagnostic inconsistencies in other veterinary services. On physical examination, he had kyphosis in the thoracic region and decreased proprioceptive capacity in the hind limbs. After radiographs were taken, morphological thoracic alterations were observed in the segment between the T5 to T9 vertebrae, with duplicated spinous processes and a decrease in the dimensions of the intervertebral space. The radiographic examination suggested presumptive evidence of thoracic spina bifida due to the unavailability of the tutor to perform more sensitive exams such as tomography and magnetic resonance. Therefore, drugs for pain and neuropathic control such as gabapentin and pregabalin were prescribed, at different times, until new recommendations, which have shown therapeutic efficacy to the patient. Currently, the patient uses a wheelchair adapted for locomotion due to the loss of movement of the hind limbs, in addition to weekly physical therapy follow-up and acupuncture sessions.(AU)

O objetivo do presente relato é descrever um diagnóstico presuntivo de espinha bífida em um cão sem raça definida, mediante inconsistências diagnósticas prévias. A espinha bífida é uma anomalia congênita incomum, caracterizada pela má formação óssea mediante o fechamento incompleto ou a inexistência do arco dorsal da estrutura vertebral durante o processo de embriogênese. Os animais portadores dessa condição podem apresentar principalmentedificuldades no processo de locomoção, o que ameaça constantemente a qualidade e a sobrevida dos afetados. A espinha bífida pode se apresentar de quatro diferentes formas e em graus variados. Um cão sem raça definida de 5 meses foi atendido em uma clínicaveterinária em Conselheiro Lafaeite/MG com dificuldades no processo de locomoção e inconsistências diagnósticas prévias em outros serviços veterinários. No exame físico, ele apresentava cifose em região torácica e diminuição da capacidade proprioceptiva nos membros posteriores. Após a realização de radiografias, foram observadas alterações morfológicas torácicas no segmento entre as vértebras T5 a T9, com processos espinhosos duplicados e decréscimo nas dimensões do espaço intervertebral. O exame radiográfico sugeriu evidências presuntivas de espinha bífida torácica, em virtude da indisponibilidade financeira da tutora para a realização de exames mais sensíveis como tomografia e ressonância. Diante dos sinais clínicos e exames apresentados, prescreveu-se fármacos para controle álgico e neuropático como gabapentina e pregabalina, em momentos distintos, até novas recomendações, sendo que estes demonstraram eficácia terapêutica ao paciente. Atualmente, o paciente faz uso de cadeirinha adaptada para locomoção devido à perda da movimentação dos membros posteriores, além do acompanhamento fisioterápico semanal e sessões de acupuntura.(AU)

El objetivo de este informe es describir un diagnóstico presuntivo de espina bífida en un perro sin raza definida, debido a inconsistencias diagnósticas previas. La espina bífida es una anomalía congénita poco frecuente caracterizada por una mala formación ósea debido a un cierre incompleto o la ausencia del arco dorsal de la estructura vertebral durante el proceso de embriogénesis. Los animales con esta condición pueden tener dificultades en el proceso de locomoción, lo que amenaza constantemente la calidad y supervivencia de los afectados. La espina bífida puede presentarse en cuatro formas diferentes y en diversos grados. Un perro mestizo de 5 meses de edad fue atendido en una clínica veterinaria en Conselheiro Lafaiete/MG con dificultades en el proceso de locomoción e inconsistencias diagnósticas previas en otros servicios veterinarios. Al examen físico presentaba cifosis en región torácica y disminución de la capacidad propioceptiva en miembros posteriores. Después de la toma de radiografías, se observaron alteraciones morfológicas torácicas en el segmento entre las vértebras T5 a T9, con procesos espinosos duplicados y disminución de las dimensiones del espacio intervertebral. El examen radiográfico sugirió evidencia presuntiva de espina bífida torácica debido a la falta de disponibilidad del tutor para realizar exámenes más sensibles como tomografía y resonancia magnética. Por ello, fármacos para el control del dolor y neuropático como la gabapentina y la pregabalina fueron prescritos, en diferentes momentos, hasta nuevas recomendaciones, que han demostrado eficacia terapéutica al paciente. Actualmente el paciente utiliza una silla de ruedas adaptada para la locomoción debido a la pérdida de movimiento de los miembros posteriores, además de seguimiento semanal de fisioterapia y sesiones de acupuntura.(AU)

Diagnóstico ultrassonográfico intrauterino de cardiomegalia fetal em felino / Intrauterine ultrasound diagnosis of fetal cardiomegaly in a feline

A ultrassonografia é um dos principais métodos de diagnóstico gestacional, no qual se realiza: biometria, monitoramento de batimentos e organogênese, detecção de anormalidades e avaliação da circulação sanguínea materno-fetal. Nesse quesito, o diagnóstico ultrassonográfico intrauterino de anormalidades fetais vem adquirindo espaço com o desenvolvimento de equipamentos mais avançados, tendo potencial para se tornar uma ferramenta de triagem para tal. Baseado na escassez observada nesse aspecto, visa-se relatar o diagnóstico ultrassonográfico intrauterino de uma alteração fetal em uma felina gestante. Foi atendida uma felina da raça persa, 3 anos, com histórico de monta natural há 40 dias. Na ultrassonografia visibilizou-se quatro fetos vivos com aproximadamente 38 dias. Uma segunda avaliação ultrassonográfica ocorreu após 12 dias, notando-se um feto com cardiomegalia, oscilação da frequência cardíaca e sofrimento fetal, enquanto os demais fetos apresentavam-se dentro da normalidade. O terceiro exame foi feito após quatro dias, visibilizando ausência de batimento cardíaco e presença de líquido em espaço pleural no feto em questão, confirmando o óbito. O parto natural ocorreu após uma semana, com nascimento de três filhotes vivos e um natimorto. Ao exame necroscópico do natimorto, confirmou-se cardiomegalia generalizada. Conclui-se que a ultrassonografia é um método padrão-ouro para diagnóstico de anormalidades fetais, permitindo planejar o parto e interceder de maneira precoce conforme a situação. Assim, esse trabalho enriquece a literatura com maiores informações relacionadas a malformações fetais observadas antes do parto, contribuindo assim com as condutas obstétricas em pequenos animais.(AU)

Ultrasonography is one of the main methods of gestational diagnosis, in which it performs: biometry, monitoring of beats and organogenesis, detection of abnormalities and evaluation of maternal-fetal blood circulation. In this regard, intrauterine sonographic diagnosis of fetal abnormalities has been gaining space with the development of more advanced equipment, and has the potential to become a screening tool for this purpose. Based on the scarcity observed in this aspect, this study aimsto report the intrauterine ultrasound diagnosis of a fetal abnormality in a pregnant feline. The patient was a 3-year-old Persian female with a history of natural mounting for 40 days. At ultrasonography, four live fetuses were visualized at approximately38 days of age. Asecond ultrasonographic evaluation was performed after 12 days, and one fetus with cardiomegaly, heart rate oscillation and fetal distress was observed, while the other fetuses were within normal limits. The third scan was performed after four days, showing absence of heartbeat and presence of fluid in the pleural space in the fetus in question, confirming the death. Natural delivery occurred after one week, with the birth of three live pups and one stillborn. At necroscopic examination of the stillborn, generalized cardiomegaly was confirmed. We conclude that ultrasonography is a gold standard method for diagnosing fetal abnormalities, allowing birth planning and early intervention according to the situation. Thus, this study enriches theliterature with more information related to fetal malformations observed before delivery, thus contributing to obstetric management in small animals.(AU)

Hérnia diafragmática peritôniopericárdica congênita em uma gata / Congenital peritoniopericardial diaphragmatic hernia in a female kitten

Background: Peritoneopericardial diaphragmatic hernia is a rare pathogenesis of congenital origin, which occurs due to a failure in the communication between the diaphragm and the pericardium during embryogenesis. Symptoms may be non-existent or non-specific, depending on the herniated organ involved and, in most cases, the diagnosis is incidental. Regarding the most indicated treatment, there are still divergences in the literature concerning the indication of conservative or surgical treatment. This study reports the case of a feline peritoneopericardial hernia, for which surgical correction was the treatment of choice. Case: A 3-month-old female kitten, no defined racial pattern, was referred to the Veterinary Hospital of the Federal Rural University of Pernambuco for treatment of a peritoneopericardial diaphragmatic hernia. This condition was diagnosed through radiographic examination after the patient having been submitted to pediatric castration and presented anesthetic complications in the transsurgery. Blood count, biochemical profile and Doppler echocardiogram were performed, which showed no significant changes. To obtain a better study and surgical planning, computed tomography was performed to observe the heart located cranially in the pericardial cavity. Caudally to the heart, hepatic parenchyma located in the pericardial cavity was observed; and hepatic vessels presenting slightly enlarged dimensions. These tomographic findings suggested peritoneopericardial diaphragmatic hernia; being the liver present in the pericardial cavity and signs of congestion in the hepatic parenchyma. Due to the likelihood of future worsening of the hernia, surgical correction was performed, with an abdominal midline incision in the preumbilical region to reposition the liver to its normal anatomy, followed by diaphragm reconstitution through a herniorrhaphy. After the surgical procedure, the patient was referred for observation in internment and, after 15 days, the skin sutures were removed. Complete correction of the hernial defect was observed on radiography performed 30 days after the surgical procedure. However, the examination showed the presence of deviation/ deformity in the topography of the sternum and costal cartilages, with slight cardiac displacement to the right hemithorax, suggesting the presence of pectus excavatum. Discussion: Peritoneopericardial diaphragmatic hernia is considered rare and, despite being one of the most common causes of congenital pericardial anomaly in felines, it has a low prevalence ranging from 0.06% to 1.45%. They are usually diagnosed from two years of age, with prevalence for older animals. However, due to having presented anesthetic changes, the patient of this case report could be diagnosed early. Among the most common organs that migrate to the thoracic cavity, the liver is the most commonly observed, which is also the hernia content of the present report. Peritoneopericardial hernia is often diagnosed through radiography and ultrasound, and these imaging tests proved to be sufficient for the diagnosis in this report. However, computed tomography was important for providing a better study of case and for the adoption of median celiotomy as a treatment. Associations with other malformations are described in the literature, with pectus excavatum being the most common and also observed in this report. Peritoneopericardial diaphragmatic hernia is a rare anomaly, rarely reported in the literature and with divergences regarding its treatment. The adoption of early surgical treatment performed in this report showed satisfactory evolution and the possibility of a favorable prognosis.

Congenital extrahepatic portosystemic deviation of gastric vein with azygos in a bitch

Background: Portosystemic shunt (PSS), an alteration commonly found in toy dogs, is caused by an anastomosis between the systemic and portal circulation, interfering with the metabolism of several toxins. It can be of congenital or acquired origin and is classified as intra- or extrahepatic. Clinical signs include the gastrointestinal tract, nervous system, and urinary system according to the fraction of the shunt. It is diagnosed by several imaging tests and exploratory laparotomy. Therapy involves drug therapy and/or surgical correction of the anomalous vessels. Thus, the aim is to present an unusual case of extrahepatic cPSS originating from the left gastric vein and insertion into the azygos vein. Case: A 2-year-old female toy poodle, spayed, weighing 2.7 kg was treated with a history of recurrent cystitis and neurological signs such as focal seizures, ataxia, tremors, blindness, lethargy, head pressing, and compulsive gait. Complementary tests revealed normochromic microcytic anemia, neutrophilia-induced leukocytosis, monocytosis, and lymphopenia. Biochemical analysis revealed hypoproteinemia due to hypoglobulinemia, an increase in alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, and gamma-glutamyl transferase, and a decrease in urea. In the urinalysis, ammonium biurate crystals were detected, and Doppler ultrasound revealed microhepathy and the presence of an anomalous gastrosplenic vein inserted into the azygos vein, a finding compatible with the congenital extrahepatic PSS. Abdominal tomography confirmed vascular deviation with a sinuous path originating from the left gastric and splenic veins, inserting into the azygos vein, measuring approximately 5.95 cm in length. Cranial tomography revealed changes consistent with hepatic encephalopathy. Drug therapy was performed with hydration, liver chow, lactulose, probiotics, metronidazole, S-adenosyl-L-methionine, and ursodeoxycholic acid, and after 15 days, surgery was performed to place a 3.5 mm ameroid constrictor ring for gradual occlusion of the anomalous vessel. The animal recovered well, and a control abdominal ultrasound was repeated 30 days after the procedure, noting that the constrictor had not yet fully occluded the deviation. Doppler imaging revealed a favorable evolution with an increase in the diameter of the portal vein in the hepatopetal direction. The patient was followed-up for a year and had a normal and healthy life. Discussion: Extrahepatic PSS is frequently diagnosed in purebred and toy dogs, commonly occurring between the portal vein and one of its tributaries, with a lower frequency of anomalous vessels between the azygos veins, as in the present report. The patient's age and clinical signs were compatible with the disease, in addition to ammonia biurate crystals and hematological and biochemical alterations. The neurological clinical signs observed were compatible with hepatic encephalopathy secondary to congenital PSS. The imaging examinations facilitated the identification of the extrahepatic vascular anomaly, with the tomography being more accurate and helping in proper surgical planning. Clinical treatment should be performed for presurgical stabilization, and occlusion can be performed by placing cellophane bands or an ameroid constrictor, which is the technique of choice for congenital PSS, as it allows for slow constriction to avoid acute portal hypertension, as in this case, emphasizing that anesthesia in animals with portosystemic shunts must be performed with care.

Distiquíases em gatos / Distichiasis in cats

Background: Distichiasis is a disease that is rare in cats, but very common in dogs. The term distichiasis may be controversial when used in the feline species, given that they do not possess true cilia, but rudimentary hair along the superior palpebra. The patients may be asymptomatic, though some show signs of ocular discomfort and ulcerative keratitis. The diagnosis is reached through an ophthalmological exam, and the treatment consists of the removal of the cilium with or without its hair follicle. With this work, we aim to report a series of cases of distichiasis in cats, as it is an uncommon anomaly, and has the potential to cause ocular discomfort in cats. Cases: Two mobile services of veterinary ophthalmology, one in the federal district of Brasília (DF) and the other in the municipality of Valinhos (SP), attended to 9 cats over a period of 5 years (2018 to 2022). The cats (n = 9) attended are of an undefined breed with ages varying from 10 months to 9 years, with an average of 3.9-year-old. The number of distichiasis presented by the animals was classified according to their quantity, being categorized as a mild grade when there was a single cilium, moderate grade when there were 2 to 4 cilia, and severe grade when there were more than 5 cilia. The highest incidence of distichiasis in this study was in males (78%) while females accounted for (22%) of the cases. The clinical changes reported by the owners consisted of signs of ocular discomfort (photophobia, blepharospasm, and periocular itching), ocular discharge and ocular redness. In the ophthalmological evaluations, blepharospasm (22%), serous to mucosal secretion (56%), chemosis (22%), mild (44%) to moderate (11%) conjunctival hyperemia, and ulcerative keratitis (22%) were observed. Distichiasis was more frequent affecting both eyes (56%), while in only (44%) of cases it affected the left eye only. The highest occurrence of cilia was identified in the upper palpebra (78%). Distichiasis was found more often in the temporal palpebral portion (78%), and in 2 patients the identification was more challenging since these cilia lack pigmentation. Single cilium affected (44%) of patients, while 5 cats had multiple distichiasis (56%). A total of 29% of the cats had a mild grade, whereas 14% had a moderated grade, and 57% had a severe grade. The treatments performed consisted of manual epilation (ME) and electroepilation (EE). ME was carried out in 56% of the cats, with relapses occurring in 80% of the patients, while 44% of the cats submitted to EE had a relapse in 20% of the cases. Discussion: Distichiasis is an inherited disorder very frequent in dogs, but considered uncommon in cats. Its causative factor is still unknown, as is its mode of inheritance. In distichiasis therapy, epilation, electroepilation, electrolysis, diode laser, cryotherapy and surgical palpebral resection techniques are referred to as procedures. Among the treatments used in this study, we observed a lower incidence of relapse with the electroepilation technique, which proved to be a viable and successful therapeutic modality. This series of cases shows that perhaps this disorder is much more frequent than what has been reported in the literature, being sometimes underdiagnosed and consequently underreported. Therefore, distichiasis in cats should be considered as a differential diagnosis in patients with clinical signs of ocular discomfort and ulcerative keratitis.

Pelger-Huёt anomaly in a bitch Basenji

Background: Pelger-Huët anomaly (PHA) is characterized by morphological changes in all granulocytes, being more evident in neutrophils. Granulocytic function in these animals remains unchanged. Hereditary form of PHA should be differentiated from pseudo-PHA,a condition acquired from infections and/or inflammation conditions. Recognition of PHA is important to avoid misleading leukogram interpretation, since hyposegmentation of neutrophils can be confused with left shift, making it necessary to carry out diagnostic tests and treatment for the disease that is generating the deviation. The objective of this case report was to demonstrate the importance of laboratory diagnosis in PHA. Case: A 11-month-old bitch Basenji, was presented to perform preoperative evaluation for elective ovariosalpingohisterectomy at Veterinary Hospital (HUVET) of the Universidade Federal Fluminense (UFF). Tutor reported that animal was healthy, vaccination status was current, had deworming protocol applied and had not made use of medications recently. Animal presented normophagy, normodipsia, normuria and normochezia. Upon physical examination, animal was alert consciousness level, with adequate hydration, hyperemic oral mucosa, a less than 2 s capillary perfusion time, normal lymph nodes (submandibular, pre-scapular, inguinal and popliteal), rectal temperature of 39.2°C, heart rate of 160 beats per minute and respiratory rate of 60 movements per minute, possibly due to the animal's agitated state. Abdominal palpation showed no changes. Physical examination presented no alterations. Preoperative exams included complete blood count (CBC) and biochemistry profile (ALT, AP, glucose, creatinine, urea, total proteins and fractions). Samples were sent to Hospital's Veterinary Clinical Pathology Laboratory (LABHUVET/UFF) for analysis. CBC was performed using automatic method. Blood smears were stained with hematological stain and then a cytomorphological evaluation was performed. The first CBC revealed 23% of neutrophils with nuclear hyposegmentation and 44% of neutrophils were bands. A follow up was performed after 9 months, and a Complete Blood Count was performed again in which 12% of neutrophils showed nuclear hyposegmentation with mature chromatin pattern, 40% of neutrophils were bands, 1% of meta-myelotcytes neutrophils, 1% of myelocytes neutrophils and, also, eosinophils with nuclear hyposegmentation. Animal was healthy, and had no alterations on physical examination suggesting a diagnosis of PHA. Discussion: Recognition of PHA is important to avoid misleading leukogram interpretation, since neutrophils hyposegmentation can be confused with left shift, which is considered severe with poor prognosis, making it necessary to carry out diagnostic tests and treatment for the disease that is generating the deviation. The diagnosis of PHA was considered by the shape of the leukocytes nuclei, without evidence of inflammatory disease, during the patient follow up. Therefore, this anomaly should be considered as a differential diagnosis of left shift, thus avoiding unnecessary clinical and therapeutic procedures. Guidance in face of this hereditary hematological syndrome is important. The responsible guardian of the animal must not allow it to act as a breeder in order to interrupt possible transmission of this anomaly to offspring, because there is a fatal form when it comes to homozygotes.

Hidropsia fetal em dois filhotes da raça Buldogue Inglês / Fetal hydrops in two English Bulldog puppies

A hidropsia fetal é uma anomalia congênita, caracterizada pelo acúmulo excessivo de fluidos no espaço extravascular do feto, sendo denominada anasarca, quando o excesso de fluidos ocorre de forma generalizada, causando edema no tecido subcutâneo. Dessa forma, o aumento exagerado no tamanho do feto é esperado, podendo resultar em uma distocia obstrutiva, durante o parto. Os cães da raça Buldogue são mais susceptíveis a essa enfermidade, devido às características braquicefálicas; portanto, deve-se redobrar os cuidados durante a gestação, como utilizar a ultrassonografia para avaliar periodicamente os fetos, com o objetivo de preservar a saúde, tanto da gestante, quanto dos fetos. Vale evidenciar que, geralmente, essa enfermidade possui prognóstico de reservado a grave. Este presente trabalho relata o parto de uma cadela de 3 anos de idade, da raça Buldogue Inglês, que deu entrada em uma clínica veterinária, na cidade de Ourinhos/SP, com aproximadamente 62 dias de gestação, fruto de inseminação artificial, estando em trabalho de parto há aproximadamente 5 horas. A partir da realização dos exames físico e ultrassonográfico, foi observado que dois dos seis fetos apresentavam edema generalizado, estavam sem reflexos e com batimentos cardíacos diminuídos e abafados. A paciente foi submetida a cesariana de emergência. Os filhotes hidrópicos vieram a óbito, após tentativa de tratamento. Diante do exposto, conclui-se que a utilização da ultrassonografia deve ser priorizada, não apenas para diagnóstico, mas para acompanhamento da evolução da gestação e dos fetos, permitindo a visibilização de possíveis fetos hidrópicos e o agendamento da cesariana, procedimento cirúrgico mais indicado na presença dessa anomalia fetal.

Fetal hydrops is a congenital anomaly characterized by excessive accumulation of fluids in the extravascular space of the fetus, being called anasarca when excess fluid occurs in a generalized way, causing edema in the subcutaneous tissue. Thus, an exaggerated increase in the size of the fetus is expected, which may result in obstructive dystocia during birth. Bulldog dogs are more susceptible to this disease due to their brachycephalic characteristics; therefore, care should be redoubled during pregnancy, such as using ultrasound to periodically evaluate the fetuses to preserve the health of both pregnant and fetuses. It is worth noting that this disease usually has a reserved to severe prognosis. This present work reports the birth of a 3-year-old female English Bulldog that was admitted at a veterinary clinic in the city of Ourinhos/SP, with approximately 62 days of gestation, as a result of artificial insemination, being in labor for approximately 5 hours. From the physical and ultrasound examinations, it was observed that two of the six fetuses had generalized edema, had no reflexes, and presented reduced and muffled heartbeats. The patient underwent an emergency cesarean section. The hydropic puppies s died after an attempted treatment. Thus, it is concluded that the use of ultrasound should be prioritized not only for diagnosis, but for monitoring pregnancy evolution and fetuses, allowing the visualization of possible hydropic fetuses and scheduling of the cesarean section, which is the most indicated surgical procedure in the presence of this fetal anomaly.

Agenesia renal unilateral em gatinha / Unilateral renal agenesis in kitten

Background: The kidneys are a pair of organs that maintain homeostasis, and perform hormonal and excretory functions; the functional unit of the kidney is the nephron. Approximately 2% of cats are born with some structural or functional anomaly, which occurs during fetal development. Unilateral renal agenesis is a rare congenital anomaly in felines, where the cat has only one kidney. This can lead to a series of dysfunctions, with clinical signs, especially when the contralateral organ does not adequately compensate, since there is more than one concomitant congenital disease like kidney dysplasia, which is the abnormal formation of the kidney structures. This study aimed to report the case of a kitten diagnosed with unilateral renal agenesis; the clinical signs, diagnosis, and treatment. Case: A 2-month-old mixed breed female kitten, weighing 0.5 kg, was attended in a veterinary clinic with emesis, hyporexia, hypodipsia, normuria, and diarrhea. Upon physical examination, dehydration, hyperthermia, and renomegaly by abdominal palpation were observed. Complementary examinations such as serum urea and creatinine estimation, abdominal ultrasound, and excretory urography, were requested, and the results include hemoglobin (9 g/dL), mean corpuscular volume (26%), normocytic normochromic anemia, urea (312 mg/dL), and creatinine (3.5 mg/dL). The abdominal ultrasound showed renomegaly on the left kidney and the absence of the right kidney. The above results and excretory urography help to confirm the diagnosis of unilateral renal agenesis and suggested renal dysplasia. The patient was hospitalized to stabilize her condition. The treatment is symptomatic and supportive and aims to increase the patient’s quality of life. Treatment with metoclopramide, erythropoietin, fluid therapy with ringer’s lactate solution, and renal therapeutic feed was prescribed. After 4 days of hospitalization and treatment, the serum creatinine was within normal...

Correção de deformidade flexural da articulação metacarpofalangeana em uma bezerra / Correction of flexural deformity of the metacarpophalangeal joint in a calf

Background: The congenital flexural deformity is common in cattle, often affecting the metacarpophalangeal joint of thethoracic limbs. The deformity may be mild, moderate, or severe, and the therapy depends on the limb’s degree of flexionand the affected joint. In severe deformities, tenotomy of the flexor tendons and desmotomy of the suspensor ligament isrecommended. However, this surgical technique may not be sufficient to promote limb extension, and other interventionsmay be necessary. Thus, the purpose of this report is to describe a technique to correct severe flexural deformities of themetacarpophalangeal joint in calves.Case: A 3-month-old, female, Dutch-bred calf weighing 46 kg was referred for treatment of congenital flexural deformity.On attendance, the patient presented severe deformity in the right thoracic limb and mild in the left thoracic limb both at theheight of the metacarpophalangeal joints. During palpation it was possible to notice that the flexor tendons were contractedin both limbs. Radiographic exams were performed to rule out the presence of other diseases, confirming the diagnosis offlexural deformity. The patient was referred to surgery to correct the anatomical anomaly. The animal was submitted to general anesthesia and placed in right lateral decubitus. In the left thoracic limb, an incision was made in the medial region ofthe metacarpal bone, the tissues were divulsioned until the superficial digital and deep digital flexor tendons were exposed;these structures were sectioned with a scalpel, and the limb was extended, returning to the standard anatomical position. Inthe right thoracic limb, the same procedure was performed, but during the limb extension test, we observed that the limbremained flexed, we then followed with a second incision and section of the deep...

Métodos de diagnóstico relacionados à doença renal policística em felinos: revisão de literatura / Diagnostic methods related to polycystic kidney disease in cats: literature review

A doença renal policística felina (DRP), comumente conhecida como PKD (Polycystic Kidney Disease), é uma enfermidade de caráter hereditário, congênita autossômica dominante, que se caracteriza pelo desenvolvimento de cistos renais com crescimento progressivo. Esses cistos também podem ser encontrados no pâncreas, fígado e baço, com tamanhos variados. É mais comumente diagnosticada em gatos, principalmente na raça persa ou mestiços, sem distinção por sexo e cor da pelagem. Os sinais clínicos variam de acordo com o comprometimento do parênquima renal e o diagnóstico precoce é significativo, para retirar pacientes acometidos da reprodução, evitando a disseminação da doença, visto que não há um tratamento específico.(AU)

The feline polycystic kidney disease, commonly known as PKD (Polycystic Kidney Disease) is a disease of hereditary character, congenital autosomal dominant character, which is characterized by the development of kidney cysts with progressive growth. These cysts can also be found in the pancreas, liver, and spleen, with varying sizes. It is most commonly diagnosed in cats, mainly in the Persian breed or mixed-breeds, without distinction for sex or coat color. The clinical signs vary according to the involvement of the renal parenchyma and early diagnosis is significant, to remove affected patients from breeding, avoiding the spread of the disease, since there is no specific treatment.(AU)

Bovinos xifópagos na linha de abate na Amazônia Oriental, Brasil / Xifópagus cattle in a slaughter line in Eastern Amazon, Brazil

Este estudo reporta um caso de gêmeos xifópagos (thoracopagus) identificados em um frigorífico no Sudeste paraense. Durante as linhas de inspeção do abate, identificou-se um dos animais com gestação gemelar avançada, sendo que os fetos encontravam-se unidos pela cavidade torácica. Aos fetos com esse tipo de duplicidade dá-se o nome de gêmeos siameses ou xifópagos. Tal condição é uma alteração congênita rara de etiologia muitas vezes considerada indefinida, podendo ser resultado de defeitos genéticos, de agentes infecciosos ou de fatores ambientais. Os fetos apresentaram morfologia homogênea e simétrica, compondo dois indivíduos equivalentes, ambos machos. O relato de anomalias, como a identificada nos fetos, permite monitorar a ocorrência de casos semelhantes, além de identificar e relatar possíveis defeitos hereditários nos bovinos.

This study reports a case of xiphopagus twins (thoracopagus) identified in a slaughterhouse in southeast Pará. During the slaughter inspection line, one of the animals was identified with advanced twin pregnancy and the fetuses were united by the thoracic cavity. Fetuses with this type of duplicity are called Siamese or Xiphopagus. This condition is a rare congenital alteration often considered of undefined etiology, and may be the result of and genetic defects, infectious agents, or environmental factors. The fetuses presented homogeneous and symmetrical morphology and were two equivalent individuals, both males. The report of anomalies, such as the one identified in the fetuses, allows monitoring the occurrence of similar cases, in addition to identifying and reporting possible hereditary defects in cattle.

Onfalocele em bezerro neonato / Omphalocele in neonate calf

Background: An omphalocele is a rare congenital malformation characterized by the protrusion of the abdominal contentsthrough the base of the umbilical cord. A defect in the midline of the abdomen results in the abdominal contents beingcovered by a membranous sac near the umbilical cord, which ultimately results in the failure of the abdominal organs toreturn to the abdominal cavity in the early gestational stages and the development of an omphalocele. This study aimed toaddress the diagnosis, medical-surgical management, and treatment for an omphalocele in a newborn calf.Case: A 2-day-old male Red Angus calf, weighing 35 kg, was referred to the HVU-UFSM. According to the owner, theanimal was born via normal delivery, had ingested milk, was alert, and had an enlarged pendulous abdomen at the umbilicus. Physical examination did not show any changes in vital functions; however, intestinal stasis was observed. Anin-depth examination revealed the presence of a round mass of tissue approximately 15 cm in diameter that was fillingthe remnant of the umbilical cord. This structure was covered by a thin, slightly dried membrane that isolated the contentsfrom the external environment. On palpation, the mass was firm and non-reducible, and an omphalocele was suspected.Given the severity of the condition, the animal immediately underwent an emergency surgical procedure to correct thecongenital defect. The surgery involved placing the intestinal loops that were present inside the sac in the abdominal cavity. At the end of the procedure, the animal was placed in a quadrupedal position to better assess omphalocele reduction.Postoperatively, the following medications were administered: a single dose of an analgesic along with a dipyrone andhyoscine-based antispasmodic (25 mg/kg, IM), an enrofloxacin-based antibiotic (2.5 mg/kg, IM) once a day for 7 days...

Onfalocele em bezerro neonato / Omphalocele in neonate calf

Background: An omphalocele is a rare congenital malformation characterized by the protrusion of the abdominal contentsthrough the base of the umbilical cord. A defect in the midline of the abdomen results in the abdominal contents beingcovered by a membranous sac near the umbilical cord, which ultimately results in the failure of the abdominal organs toreturn to the abdominal cavity in the early gestational stages and the development of an omphalocele. This study aimed toaddress the diagnosis, medical-surgical management, and treatment for an omphalocele in a newborn calf.Case: A 2-day-old male Red Angus calf, weighing 35 kg, was referred to the HVU-UFSM. According to the owner, theanimal was born via normal delivery, had ingested milk, was alert, and had an enlarged pendulous abdomen at the umbilicus. Physical examination did not show any changes in vital functions; however, intestinal stasis was observed. Anin-depth examination revealed the presence of a round mass of tissue approximately 15 cm in diameter that was fillingthe remnant of the umbilical cord. This structure was covered by a thin, slightly dried membrane that isolated the contentsfrom the external environment. On palpation, the mass was firm and non-reducible, and an omphalocele was suspected.Given the severity of the condition, the animal immediately underwent an emergency surgical procedure to correct thecongenital defect. The surgery involved placing the intestinal loops that were present inside the sac in the abdominal cavity. At the end of the procedure, the animal was placed in a quadrupedal position to better assess omphalocele reduction.Postoperatively, the following medications were administered: a single dose of an analgesic along with a dipyrone andhyoscine-based antispasmodic (25 mg/kg, IM), an enrofloxacin-based antibiotic (2.5 mg/kg, IM) once a day for 7 days...(AU)

First record of leucism in the polychromatic Amazon tree boa, Corallus hortulana (Serpentes, Boidae) of South America / Primeiro registro de leucismo em suaçuboia, Corallus hortulana (Serpentes, Boidae) uma espécie policromática da América do Sul

Snakes have a wide variety of color patterns that can be related to specific ecological and physiological functions. However, genetic mutations can lead to the appearance of anomalous color patterns, which can directly interfere with the fitness of individuals. Leucism is a chromatic anomaly characterized by the almost total absence of epidermal and dermal chromatophores that produce the color. Corallus hortulana is an arboreal snake with nocturnal habits, widely distributed throughout South America, with a wide range of color patterns, known as polychromatism. Here we report the first case of leucism in Corallus hortulana and discuss the potential ecological implications of this anomaly in this species.(AU)

As cobras possuem uma grande variedade de padrões de coloração que podem estar relacionadas a funções ecológicas e fisiológicas específicas. No entanto, mutações genéticas podem levar ao aparecimento de padrões de coloração anômalos que podem interferir diretamente na fitness do indivíduo. O leucismo é uma anomalia cromática caracterizada pela ausência quase total de cromatóforos epidérmicos e dérmicos que produzem a cor. Corallus hortulana é uma serpente arborícola de hábitos noturnos, amplamente distribuída pela América do Sul, com grande variação de padrões de cor, conhecida como policromatismo. Aqui nós relatamos o primeiro caso de leucismo em Corallus hortulana e discutimos as potenciais implicações ecológicas desta anomalia para a espécie.(AU)

Spontaneous pre-axial polydactyly in Swiss mice / Polidactilia pré-axial espontânea em camundongos Swiss

ABSTRACT: Spontaneous polydactyly has been described in several species, but only one report about it in Swiss mice. The aim of the current study was to report the spontaneous occurrence of pre-axial polydactyly in Swiss mice. Clinical examination showed one extra toe laterally to the first digit, in the plantar region, alopecia in the back, altered face growth anatomy and changed perineal region anatomy. Pre-axial polydactyly in the tibial side, fused metatarsals and Y-shaped free phalanges were evidenced in the radiographic images. Pre-axial polydactyly observed in the plantar region differed from that in reports on albino Swiss mice with post-axial polydactyly (Po/Po+) phenotype featured by one extra toe in the ulnar side of one, or both, front limbs, which is the dominant feature. The observed findings highlight the importance of both clinical examinations and close attention by professionals involved in rodents' breeding on physical changes resulting from different causes, including the genetic ones, since they reveal mutations and, sometimes, new biomodels.

RESUMO: A polidactilia espontânea foi descrita em várias espécies, mas há apenas um relato em camundongos Swiss. O objetivo do presente estudo foi relatar uma ocorrência de polidactilia pré-axial em camundongos Swiss. O exame clínico revelou um dedo extra lateralmente ao primeiro dedo na região plantar, alopecia dorsal, anatomias facial e da região perineal alteradas. Nas imagens radiográficas foram evidenciados polidactilia pré-axial no lado tibial, metatarsos fundidos e falanges livres em forma de Y. A polidactilia pré-axial observada diferiu do relato existente de polidactilia pós-axial (Po/Po+) caracterizado por um dedo extra no lado ulnar de um ou ambos os membros anteriores e de característica dominante. Os achados observados destacam a importância dos exames clínicos e da atenção cuidadosa dos profissionais envolvidos na criação de roedores sobre as alterações físicas decorrentes de diferentes causas, inclusive as genéticas, em revelar mutações e, às vezes, novos biomodelos.

Pulmonary choristoma in a new-born calf with multiple cranial and nervous malformations / Coristoma pulmonar em um bezerro recém-nascido com múltiplas malformações cranianas e neurológicas

Multiple congenital malformations can occur concomitantly in several species since the anomaly in one organ may lead directly to the malformation of another. Additionally, the etiology is not always clarified. Choristoma refers to an ectopic tissue that is histologically normal in an abnormal location. A case of pulmonary and nodal choristoma associated with cranioschisis, hydrocephalus, and syringomyelia in a new-born calf is reported here. Clinically, the calf had a mass in the frontal region of the head associated with local bone deformation. At necropsy, there was cranioschisis in the junction of the frontal bones and a 14 × 10 × 7 cm mass, grossly consistent with well-differentiated pulmonary tissue covered by skin, covering the opening between the frontal bones, and extending into the cranial cavity, leading to local cerebral compression. With the pulmonary choristoma, there was a well-differentiated lymphoid tissue. Additionally, in the central nervous system, there was severe hydrocephalus involving lateral ventricles and multiple areas of syringomyelia in the spinal cord.

Múltiplas malformações congênitas podem ocorrer concomitantemente em diversas espécies, uma vez que a anomalia em um órgão pode diretamente acarretar a malformação de outro. Ainda, a etiologia envolvida nem sempre é identificada. Coristomas são caracterizados por tecido ectópico histologicamente normal em uma localização anômala. Um caso de coristoma pulmonar e nodal associado a craniosquise, hidrocefalia e siringomielia em um bezerro recém-nascido é descrito neste trabalho. Clinicamente, o bezerro apresentava uma massa na região frontal da cabeça associada a deformação óssea local. No exame de necropsia, havia craniosquise na junção dos ossos frontais e tecido pulmonar bem diferenciado recoberto por pele, medindo 14 x 10 x 7 cm, recobrindo a abertura entre os ossos frontais e adentrando a cavidade craniana, acarretando o achatamento do córtex cerebral adjacente. Juntamente com o tecido pulmonar, havia um nódulo composto por tecido linfoide bem diferenciado. Adicionalmente, no sistema nervoso central, havia hidrocefalia severa envolvendo os ventrículos laterais e múltiplas áreas de siringomielia na medula espinhal.

Monocephalus dipygus dibrachius em cadela Shih Tzu / Monocephalus dipygus dibrachius in a Shih Tzu bitch

Background: Congenital anomalies are structural, functional, or metabolic defects caused by a combination of environmental, genetic, or even iatrogenic factors. Genetic defects, which can be inherited, are more common in purebred dogs. Teratogenic factors such as radiation, toxins, chemical agents, infectious diseases, mechanical influences, drugs given to the mother, and nutrition can affect the litter during gestational development. The incomplete division of a fertilized egg results in monozygotic, conjoined or Siamese twins, which are animals with complete or incomplete duplications. This paper reports on an adult bitch with monocephalus dipygus dibrachius and the surgical procedures. Case: A 2-year-old female Shih Tzu weighing 5 kg was admitted to a veterinary clinic, presenting with swelling and myiasis near the anus and several development disorders, characterized by 2 pelvises, 2 anuses, 2 vulvas, 2 forelimbs and 6 hindlimbs. Her physiological parameters were otherwise normal. Only the dog's myiasis was treated at this time due to the owner's financial straits. After 5 months, the owner brought the bitch back to the veterinary clinic because the animal presented with fecaloma in 1 of the anuses. Radiography revealed numerous alterations: seven lumbar vertebrae with marked vertebral axis deviation, reduced disc space, as well as ankylosis and fused ventral spondylosis at L6 and L7. Two pelvises fused medially by the wings of the ileum, with slight deviation and thinning of pelvic bones. Four hip joints and medial joints with pelvic avulsion and bone remnants of the pelvic limbs. Acetabular tearing slightly flattened femoral head and thickened femoral neck. Caudal vertebrae and vertebral axis located in left pelvis. Left lateral patella inserted in the trochlear groove and lateral dislocation of right patella. Right patellofemoral joint with smooth surface, preserved intra-articular density and cranial displacement of the tibia relative to the femoral condyles (cranial cruciate ligament rupture). An ultrasound analysis revealed 2 bladders. Two months later surgery was performed due to recurrent complications. During laparotomy 2 uteruses, 2 bladders and bifurcation of the intestine were observed. Ovariosalpingohysterectomy was performed in both uterus and enterectomy of the problematic intestinal portion. After 2 days of the surgery, blood transfusion was performed. After 2 days of the transfusion, there was extravasation of yellow fluid from the surgical cut and abdominal palpation was indicative of bladder rupture, so the patient was sent to emergency surgery. Unilateral nephrectomy and ureterectomy, and ruptured bladder cystectomy were performed. The dog remained hospitalized for 24 days after surgery, before it was released. Discussion: The classification of conjoined twins is based on the location of the junction and the number of limbs. Monocephalus dipygus dibrachius was diagnosed based on the fact that the dog had 1 skull, 2 thoracic limbs and 4 pelvic limbs, as well as the corresponding genitourinary and gastrointestinal tract alterations. Imaging scans are extremely important for a proper diagnosis to ensure appropriate surgery planning. The bitch was the result of inbreeding between a male dog and its offspring, which probably contributed to this malformation. There are very few reports of surviving adult conjoined animals, and even fewer descriptions of successful surgical treatments. To the best of knowledge of the authors, there are no previous reports of a surviving adult dog suffering from this malformation.

Efeitos da consanguinidade em rebanho de bubalinos no pantanal Mato-Grossense / Effects of inbreeding in bubaline herds in the pantanal Mato-Grossense / Efectos de la consanguinidad en rebaño de búfalos en el pantanal Mato-Grossense

A consanguinidade é uma realidade na criação de bubalinos no Brasil, devido ao número pequeno de animais no rebanho, e principalmente a falta de escrituração zootécnica e seleção genética da espécie. Isso faz com que exista muita endogamia e como consequência aparecem as anomalias congênitas, que associadas às condições ambientais resultam em animais com problemas de pele, baixo desenvolvimento, baixa produção e sanidade deficitária. O presente estudo demonstrou os efeitos de um manejo cuja persistência de um touro por período de 8 anos gerou progênie com despigmentação, culminando com alterações dermatológicas e baixo desenvolvimento em alguns animais de um rebanho, sendo estas: albinismo acentuado, albinismo parcial -cabeça e peitoral e fotossensibilização, na qual todos eram menos desenvolvidos se comparados aos pais não consanguíneos. A alta incidência de raios solares na região do Pantanal Mato-Grossense potencializou queimaduras cutâneas e desgaste desses animais. Com objetivo de eliminar os genes defeituosos, os animais foram descartados e um novo touro foi introduzido.(AU)

IInbreeding is a reality in buffalo breeding in Brazil, due to the small number of animals in the herd, and mainly the lack of zootechnical bookkeeping and genetic selection of the species. This means that there is a lot of inbreeding and, as a consequence, congenital anomalies appear, which, associated with environmental conditions, result in animals with skin problems, poor development, low production and poor health. The present study demonstrated the effects of a management whose persistence of a bull for a period of 8 years generated progeny with depigmentation, culminating with dermatological alterations and low development in some animals of a herd, namely: accentuated albinism, partial albinism -head and pectoral and photosensitization, in which all were less developed compared to non-consanguineous parents. The high incidence of solar rays in the Pantanal Mato-Grossense region potentiated skin burns and wear of these animals. In order to eliminate the defective genes, the animals were discarded anda new bull was introduced.(AU)

La consanguinidad es una realidad en la cría de búfalos en Brasil,debido al pequeño número de animales en el rebaño, y principalmente la falta de contabilidad zootécnica y de selección de genética de la especie. Esto provoca la existencia de mucha endogamia y como consecuencia aparecen las anomalías congénitas, que asociadas a las condiciones ambientales resultan en animales con problemas de piel, bajo desarrollo, baja producción y salud. El presente estudio demostró los efectos de un manejo donde la persistencia de un toro por un periodo de 8 años generó progenie con despigmentación, culminando en alteraciones dermatológicas en un rebaño de 35 animales, siendo de los afectados: despigmentación severa, albinismo parcial -cabeza y pecho y fotosensibilización, en los que todos fueron menos desarrollados si se comparan con los padres no consanguíneos. La alta incidencia de los rayos solares en la región del Pantanal Mato-Grossense colaboró con las quemaduras y el desgaste de estos animales. Con el objetivo de eliminar los genes defectuosos, los animales fueron descartados y se introdujo un nuevo toro.(AU)