Adrenal glands of Chinchilla lanigera - study of anatomical features with computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging

Background: Since chinchilla (Chinchilla lanigera) is frequently used as a laboratory animal, satisfactory data about the imaging anatomical appearance of its adrenal glands, such as their anatomical location and closeness with other abdominal soft tissue and vessels, are important. The aim of this study to determine anatomical features of the chinchilla adrenal gland's using computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging. Materials, Methods & Results: We used 12 chinchillas (6 males and 6 females), aged 18 months. The animals were in supine recumbency when contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT) was performed. Transverse, sagittal and dorsal images of the adrenal glands were obtained with iodinated contrast medium, and 3D reconstruction of the obtained images was applied. The craniocaudal (CrCc - length), dorsoventral (DV - height) and lateromedial (LM - width) diameters were measured using an electronic calliper. Magnetic resonance imaging was performed, and coronal T1-weighted images were obtained. The transverse CT anatomical image at the level of the 3rd lumbar vertebra demonstrated the location of the both adrenal glands in accordance with the grey-white scale's variation. The right adrenal gland was hypo-attenuated and elliptic compared to the right kidney and in close contact to it and to the caudal vena cava. The left adrenal gland was oval and at a distance to the abdominal aorta. The dorsal MRI anatomical study of the chinchilla's abdominal organs at a distance of 10 mm from the spine and in a T1-weighted sequence showed that both adrenal glands were retroperitoneal organs. Discussion: Post-contrasted CT defined the topography of both glands. The right adrenal gland has an oval shape and is cranially situated to the left gland, whose shape is cylindrical and elongated. The LM diameter of the right gland is higher than that measured in the left gland. Both DV and CrCc diameters of the right gland are lower compared to those of the left gland. The right adrenal gland is in close contact to the caudal vena cava, the right kidney and the liver, and the left adrenal gland is in a distance to the abdominal aorta. The right adrenal gland was close to the caudal vena cava and the right kidney and medially to the left kidney. The successful comparative analysis of the images in 3D reconstruction and post-contrast CT in 2D allowed us to conclude that 3D reconstruction is suitable to obtain detailed information in a summary form regarding the closeness of the glands and their shape, mainly because the results are in a real time and highly comprehensive. Our data are in in agreement with previous findings about the advantages of 3D reconstruction. The research algorithm applied was based on the dorsal visualization of the glands in T1-weighted sequence, achieving a comprehensive and high-quality MRI imaging of the examined organs in chinchillas. Both adrenal glands were retroperitoneal organs and with low signal. The dorsal MRI anatomical study of the chinchilla's abdominal organs at a distance of 10 mm from the spine and in a T1-weighted sequence showed the whole profile of the right and left glands and the cranial position of the right gland to the left one, the close contact between the right gland and the kidney and the distance between the left gland and the left kidney. The MRI results are detailed and comprehensive for interpretation. In conclusion, the results of the present study are comprehensive, detailed and with high resolution. We present data for the anatomical relationships of the studied organs, their shape and macrometric parameters, concluding that the above mentioned modalities are very important tools for studying the chinchilla's adrenal glands to create a morphological base, which is necessary to investigate specific diseases.

Sistematização e descrição da vascularização arterial da área páleo-palial na superfície do cérebro de chinchila (Chinchilla lanigera) / Systematization and description of arterial vascularization of the paleopallia area on the brain surface of chinchilla (Chinchilla lanigera)

Background: Chinchilla (Chinchilla lanigera) is a small rodent that in recent years has been increasingly used as a laboratory animal by different researchers. Brain irrigation is the object of study by several authors, being chinchilla classifiedas a vertebrobasillary animal, that is, it does not depend on the internal carotid artery to originate its cerebral arterialvascularization. Thus, the objective of this study was to systematize and describe the branches of the rostral, middle andcaudal cerebral arteries that vascularized the paleopallia area of the chinchilla.Materials, Methods & Results: Thirty Chinchilla lanigera brains were used in this study, 17 females and 13 adult malesfrom farms in the municipalities of Viamão and Santa Maria in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. The animals wereheparinized, with 5000 IU / animal, and after 30 min were sacrificed with 8 mL / 2.5% sodium thiopental animal, bothintraperitoneally. The thoracic cavity was opened, the cardiac apex sectioned and the aortic arch was cannulated throughthe left ventricle. The arterial system was flushed with 0.9% cooled saline, 100mL / animal and then filled with 603 latexstained red with specific dye. The skin was recessed and a bone window opened in the cranial vault. Thus the pieces werefixed in 20% formaldehyde for seven days and after this period, the brain with a cervical spinal cord segment was removedand ventral schematic drawings of all preparations were prepared. The Veterinary Anatomical Nomina (2017) was usedto name the cerebral arteries and their branches and for the statistical analysis of the results, the percentage calculationwas applied. Brain irrigation in the chinchilla was supplied by the basilar artery, which was formed by anastomosis of theterminal branches of the right and left vertebral arteries, in the most caudal portion of the oblong medulla. The paleopalliaareas corresponded to the olfactory trine, lateral brain fossa, piriform lobe...

Sistematização e descrição da vascularização arterial da área páleo-palial na superfície do cérebro de chinchila (Chinchilla lanigera) / Systematization and description of arterial vascularization of the paleopallia area on the brain surface of chinchilla (Chinchilla lanigera)

Background: Chinchilla (Chinchilla lanigera) is a small rodent that in recent years has been increasingly used as a laboratory animal by different researchers. Brain irrigation is the object of study by several authors, being chinchilla classifiedas a vertebrobasillary animal, that is, it does not depend on the internal carotid artery to originate its cerebral arterialvascularization. Thus, the objective of this study was to systematize and describe the branches of the rostral, middle andcaudal cerebral arteries that vascularized the paleopallia area of the chinchilla.Materials, Methods & Results: Thirty Chinchilla lanigera brains were used in this study, 17 females and 13 adult malesfrom farms in the municipalities of Viamão and Santa Maria in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. The animals wereheparinized, with 5000 IU / animal, and after 30 min were sacrificed with 8 mL / 2.5% sodium thiopental animal, bothintraperitoneally. The thoracic cavity was opened, the cardiac apex sectioned and the aortic arch was cannulated throughthe left ventricle. The arterial system was flushed with 0.9% cooled saline, 100mL / animal and then filled with 603 latexstained red with specific dye. The skin was recessed and a bone window opened in the cranial vault. Thus the pieces werefixed in 20% formaldehyde for seven days and after this period, the brain with a cervical spinal cord segment was removedand ventral schematic drawings of all preparations were prepared. The Veterinary Anatomical Nomina (2017) was usedto name the cerebral arteries and their branches and for the statistical analysis of the results, the percentage calculationwas applied. Brain irrigation in the chinchilla was supplied by the basilar artery, which was formed by anastomosis of theterminal branches of the right and left vertebral arteries, in the most caudal portion of the oblong medulla. The paleopalliaareas corresponded to the olfactory trine, lateral brain fossa, piriform lobe...(AU)

Bloqueios dos nervos ciático e femoral guiado por neuroestimulador em Chinchilla lanigera submetida a osteossíntese de tíbia / Nerve stimulator-guided ciatic and femoral nerve block during tibial osteosynthesis in Chinchilla lanigera

Background: Nociceptive stimulation in orthopedic surgery requires effective pain management to ensure trans andpostoperative patient comfort. Several techniques can be used for this, and multimodal analgesia protocols such as guidedlocoregional blocks provide a balanced effect, as they enable the use of low-dose anesthetics and offer rapid recovery. Thebenefits of specific nerve blocks in domestic animals are well known; however, there are few reports that have ascertainedtheir safety in wild species. This report is aimed at describing the successful use of neurolocalizer-guided sciatic andfemoral nerve blocks during tibial osteosyntheses in a chinchilla.Case: A 9-month-old chinchilla weighing 0.56 kg was referred for surgery for proximal and mid-diaphyseal tibia fracturesresulting from trauma. Following preanesthetic evaluation, the animal received intramuscular dexmedetomidine (15 µgkg1) as preanesthetic medication. Sedation was apparent after 15 min and was verified by a decreased activity, the animalallowing manipulation, absence of the eyelid and righting reflexes, and limb movement after clamping removal of limbafter clamping. After achieving sedation, anesthesia was induced and maintained with sevoflurane (FiO2 = 1.0), suppliedthrough a nasoral mask. Sciatic and femoral nerve blocks were performed with the aid of a neurostimulator. A needle wasinserted into the femoral triangle, cranial to the femoral artery, and into the depression between the sciatic tuberosity andthe greater femoral trochanter. The neurostimulator was set at a pulse frequency of 1 Hz, pulse duration of 0.1 ms andinitial current of 0.6 mA. The needle was advanced toward the nerves until muscle contractions were observed, and thecurrent was gradually reduced until contractions were manifested at a minimum current...

Bloqueios dos nervos ciático e femoral guiado por neuroestimulador em Chinchilla lanigera submetida a osteossíntese de tíbia / Nerve stimulator-guided ciatic and femoral nerve block during tibial osteosynthesis in Chinchilla lanigera

Background: Nociceptive stimulation in orthopedic surgery requires effective pain management to ensure trans andpostoperative patient comfort. Several techniques can be used for this, and multimodal analgesia protocols such as guidedlocoregional blocks provide a balanced effect, as they enable the use of low-dose anesthetics and offer rapid recovery. Thebenefits of specific nerve blocks in domestic animals are well known; however, there are few reports that have ascertainedtheir safety in wild species. This report is aimed at describing the successful use of neurolocalizer-guided sciatic andfemoral nerve blocks during tibial osteosyntheses in a chinchilla.Case: A 9-month-old chinchilla weighing 0.56 kg was referred for surgery for proximal and mid-diaphyseal tibia fracturesresulting from trauma. Following preanesthetic evaluation, the animal received intramuscular dexmedetomidine (15 µgkg1) as preanesthetic medication. Sedation was apparent after 15 min and was verified by a decreased activity, the animalallowing manipulation, absence of the eyelid and righting reflexes, and limb movement after clamping removal of limbafter clamping. After achieving sedation, anesthesia was induced and maintained with sevoflurane (FiO2 = 1.0), suppliedthrough a nasoral mask. Sciatic and femoral nerve blocks were performed with the aid of a neurostimulator. A needle wasinserted into the femoral triangle, cranial to the femoral artery, and into the depression between the sciatic tuberosity andthe greater femoral trochanter. The neurostimulator was set at a pulse frequency of 1 Hz, pulse duration of 0.1 ms andinitial current of 0.6 mA. The needle was advanced toward the nerves until muscle contractions were observed, and thecurrent was gradually reduced until contractions were manifested at a minimum current...(AU)

Anatomical and imagistic aspects of the aortic arch in Chinchilla lanigera

Background: The investigation on the cardiocirculatory system in chinchilla has become increasingly important due to the use of the species in experimental medicine (toxicology, pathology, parasitology etc.). Even though initially this species was regarded with a strict economic interest, in the last period, chinchillas have become an increasingly-encountered patient in veterinary clinics and hospitals. Another aspect is the use of the species in medical research, as experimental model or in parasitology. The present study tackles a combined anatomical and radiological (angiographical) study to accurately describe the vascular anatomy of the initial part of the aortic arch (Arcus aortae).Materials, Methods & Results: The anatomical distribution of collaterals detached from arcus aorticus (brachiocephalic trunk and subclavian arteries) are highlighted in this paper. To do that, the classical stratigraphic anatomical investigation, followed by the radiological study with the help of the contrast substance injected into the vascular bed were used in combination. Several Chinchilla lanigera female carcasses, obtained from a private commercial farming unit in Cluj county, Romania were used for this study. Ten carcasses were used for the anatomical study, being injected into the vascular bed with a mixture of latex and acrylic dye, fixated into formaldehyde 5% and later dissected, while the other ten carcasses were injected at the level of the aortic arch with Visipaque 320 contrast substance and subjected to the angiographical procedure.The anatomical investigation was carried after an initial 5 day-fixation period, while the angiographic procedure was initiated using the TEMCO Grx-01 device and the Veterinary Digital Imaging System® as digital imaging processing software. This combined study shows the differential mode of emergence of the subclavian and carotid arteries in this species.[...]

Anatomical and imagistic aspects of the aortic arch in Chinchilla lanigera

Background: The investigation on the cardiocirculatory system in chinchilla has become increasingly important due to the use of the species in experimental medicine (toxicology, pathology, parasitology etc.). Even though initially this species was regarded with a strict economic interest, in the last period, chinchillas have become an increasingly-encountered patient in veterinary clinics and hospitals. Another aspect is the use of the species in medical research, as experimental model or in parasitology. The present study tackles a combined anatomical and radiological (angiographical) study to accurately describe the vascular anatomy of the initial part of the aortic arch (Arcus aortae).Materials, Methods & Results: The anatomical distribution of collaterals detached from arcus aorticus (brachiocephalic trunk and subclavian arteries) are highlighted in this paper. To do that, the classical stratigraphic anatomical investigation, followed by the radiological study with the help of the contrast substance injected into the vascular bed were used in combination. Several Chinchilla lanigera female carcasses, obtained from a private commercial farming unit in Cluj county, Romania were used for this study. Ten carcasses were used for the anatomical study, being injected into the vascular bed with a mixture of latex and acrylic dye, fixated into formaldehyde 5% and later dissected, while the other ten carcasses were injected at the level of the aortic arch with Visipaque 320 contrast substance and subjected to the angiographical procedure.The anatomical investigation was carried after an initial 5 day-fixation period, while the angiographic procedure was initiated using the TEMCO Grx-01 device and the Veterinary Digital Imaging System® as digital imaging processing software. This combined study shows the differential mode of emergence of the subclavian and carotid arteries in this species.[...](AU)

Assessment of intraocular pressure in chinchillas of different age groups using rebound tonometry / Pressão intraocular em chinchilas de diferentes faixas etárias utilizando tonômetro de rebote

The aim of this research was to measure the intraocular pressure (IOP) of normal chinchilla eyes using the rebound tonometer. A further aim was to assess whether there were differences in the values of intraocular pressure in relation to animals age, gender and time of day. Thirty-six chinchillas were divided into three groups of 12 chinchillas each, by age: Group I (2-6-month-old), Group II (20 and 34 months) and Group III (37 and 135 months). Ophthalmic examination was performed previously by Schirmer tear test, slit lamp biomicroscopy, indirect ophthalmoscopy and fluorescein test in all chinchillas. Three measurements of intraocular pressure were assessed on the same day (7, 12 and 19h). Tonometry was performed on both eyes using the rebound tonometer after calibration in "p" mode. Statistical analysis was performed with SigmaPlot for Windows. The mean IOP for groups I, II and III were 2.47±0.581mmHg, 2.47±0.581mmHg and 2.51±0.531mmHg, respectively. No significant differences were reported between age and IOP and no significant differences were reported between the time of day and IOP. The IOP in chinchillas did not differ significantly between genders or ages of the animals, and did not change with time of day.(AU)

Objetivou-se aferir a pressão intraocular (PIO) em olhos saudáveis de chinchilas usando o tonômetro de rebote. Além disso, pretende-se verificar se existem diferenças nos valores de pressão intraocular em relação à idade e ao sexo dos animais e o período do dia. Trinta e seis chinchilas foram divididas em três grupos com 12 animais cada, considerando as idades, designados por GI (2-6 meses), GII (20-34 meses) e GIII (37-135 meses). Previamente, foi realizado exame oftalmológico, incluindo teste da lágrima de Schirmer, biomicroscopia com lâmpada de fenda, oftalmoscopia indireta e teste de fluoresceína em todas as chinchilas. Foram realizadas três aferições da pressão intraocular num mesmo dia (7, 12 e 19 horas). A tonometria foi realizada em ambos os olhos, usando o tonômetro de rebote calibrado no modo "p". Análise estatística foi realizada com o programa SigmaPlot para Windows a fim de analisar os dados. A média da PIO para o G I, G II e G III foi de 2,47±0,581mmHg, 2,47±0,581mmHg e G III de 2,51±0,531mmHg, respectivamente. Não houve diferenças significativas entre a idade e a PIO e não houve diferenças significativas entre as horas do dia e a PIO. Os valores da PIO em chinchilas não sofreram alterações decorrentes do sexo e da idade dos animais e não foram significativamente diferentes em distintas horas do dia.(AU)

Protozoários intestinais em chinchilas (Chinchilla lanigera) criadas em cativeiro, na região serrana do estado do Espírito Santo, Brasil / Intestinal protozoan in chinchillas (Chinchilla lanigera) created in captivity, the region serrana of state ofEspirito Santo, Brazil

Chinchilla lanigera é um roedor proveniente do Chile e sua domesticação foi inicialmenteestabelecida para fins comercias objetivada na produção de peles e carnes. Dentre as doenças parasitárias queacometem tais animais, as protozooses mostram-se mais prevalentes causando sérios problemas clínicos esanitários. O objetivo do presente estudo foi verificar a ocorrência de Giardia spp.,Eimeria spp., eCryptosporidium spp. em chinchilas provenientes de uma criação comercial localizada no município de AfonsoCláudio, Espírito Santo, Brasil. Para isto, foram coletadas fezes de cem chinchilas sendo estas submetidas aosmétodos de Faust para detecção de cistos de Giardia spp., método de Sheather para visualização de oocistosesporulados de Eimeria spp.e ao método de coloração de Ziehl-Neelsen, para detecção de oocistos esporuladosde Cryptosporidium spp. As amostras foram acondicionadas a 5oC até o seu processamento laboratorial. Afrequência de cada protozoose foi determinada a partir do quociente estabelecido entre o número de casospositivos e número total de animais e os resultados foram expressos como variação percentual (%). As leiturasobtidas de cada técnica coproparasitológica foram realizadas em duplicata. Após o processamento das amostrasfecais, frequências de infecção de 38% (38/100) para Giardia spp., 19% (19/100) para Cryptosporidium spp. ede apenas 8% (8/100) para Eimeria spp. foram demonstradas. O Teste Exato de Fisher aplicado aos dadosrevelou haver diferença significativa nas freqüências de cistos de Giardia spp., oocistos esporulados deCryptosporidium spp. e oocistos esporulados de Eimeria spp. em relação as variáveis idade (p = 0,47) e sexo (p= 0,07)

Chinchilla lanigera is a rodent from Chile and its domestication was initially establishedobjectified for commercial purposes for fur and meat. Among the parasitic diseases that affect these animals,protozoa show up most prevalent cause serious clinical and health problems. The aim of this study was to verifythe occurrence of Giardia spp., Eimeria spp. and Cryptosporidium spp. in chinchillas from a commercialestablishment in the municipality of Afonso Claudio, Espirito Santo, Brazil. For this, one hundred chinchillasfeces were collected and subjected to Faust these methods for detecting Giardia spp., Sheather method forviewing sporulated oocysts of Eimeria spp. and Ziehl-Neelsen staining method for the detection of sporulatedoocysts of Cryptosporidium spp. The samples were stored at 5°C until its laboratory processing. The frequencyof each protozoan infection was determined from the ratio established between the number of positive cases andtotal number of animals and the results were expressed as percent change (%). The readings obtained from eachcoproparasitológica technique were performed in duplicate. After processing of stool samples, 38% infectionfrequency (38/100) for Giardia spp., 19% (19/100) for Cryptosporidium and only 8% (8/100) to Eimeria spp.were demonstrated. The Fisher's exact test applied to the data revealed significant differences in the frequenciesof cysts of Giardia spp., oocysts of Cryptosporidium spp. and oocysts of Eimeria spp. regarding the variable age(p = 0.47) and sex (p = 0.07)

Protozoários intestinais em chinchilas (Chinchilla lanigera) criadas em cativeiro, na região serrana do estado do Espírito Santo, Brasil / Intestinal protozoan in chinchillas (Chinchilla lanigera) created in captivity, the region serrana of state ofEspirito Santo, Brazil

Chinchilla lanigera é um roedor proveniente do Chile e sua domesticação foi inicialmenteestabelecida para fins comercias objetivada na produção de peles e carnes. Dentre as doenças parasitárias queacometem tais animais, as protozooses mostram-se mais prevalentes causando sérios problemas clínicos esanitários. O objetivo do presente estudo foi verificar a ocorrência de Giardia spp.,Eimeria spp., eCryptosporidium spp. em chinchilas provenientes de uma criação comercial localizada no município de AfonsoCláudio, Espírito Santo, Brasil. Para isto, foram coletadas fezes de cem chinchilas sendo estas submetidas aosmétodos de Faust para detecção de cistos de Giardia spp., método de Sheather para visualização de oocistosesporulados de Eimeria spp.e ao método de coloração de Ziehl-Neelsen, para detecção de oocistos esporuladosde Cryptosporidium spp. As amostras foram acondicionadas a 5oC até o seu processamento laboratorial. Afrequência de cada protozoose foi determinada a partir do quociente estabelecido entre o número de casospositivos e número total de animais e os resultados foram expressos como variação percentual (%). As leiturasobtidas de cada técnica coproparasitológica foram realizadas em duplicata. Após o processamento das amostrasfecais, frequências de infecção de 38% (38/100) para Giardia spp., 19% (19/100) para Cryptosporidium spp. ede apenas 8% (8/100) para Eimeria spp. foram demonstradas. O Teste Exato de Fisher aplicado aos dadosrevelou haver diferença significativa nas freqüências de cistos de Giardia spp., oocistos esporulados deCryptosporidium spp. e oocistos esporulados de Eimeria spp. em relação as variáveis idade (p = 0,47) e sexo (p= 0,07)(AU)

Chinchilla lanigera is a rodent from Chile and its domestication was initially establishedobjectified for commercial purposes for fur and meat. Among the parasitic diseases that affect these animals,protozoa show up most prevalent cause serious clinical and health problems. The aim of this study was to verifythe occurrence of Giardia spp., Eimeria spp. and Cryptosporidium spp. in chinchillas from a commercialestablishment in the municipality of Afonso Claudio, Espirito Santo, Brazil. For this, one hundred chinchillasfeces were collected and subjected to Faust these methods for detecting Giardia spp., Sheather method forviewing sporulated oocysts of Eimeria spp. and Ziehl-Neelsen staining method for the detection of sporulatedoocysts of Cryptosporidium spp. The samples were stored at 5°C until its laboratory processing. The frequencyof each protozoan infection was determined from the ratio established between the number of positive cases andtotal number of animals and the results were expressed as percent change (%). The readings obtained from eachcoproparasitológica technique were performed in duplicate. After processing of stool samples, 38% infectionfrequency (38/100) for Giardia spp., 19% (19/100) for Cryptosporidium and only 8% (8/100) to Eimeria spp.were demonstrated. The Fisher's exact test applied to the data revealed significant differences in the frequenciesof cysts of Giardia spp., oocysts of Cryptosporidium spp. and oocysts of Eimeria spp. regarding the variable age(p = 0.47) and sex (p = 0.07)(AU)

Ringworm by Microsporum canis in long-tailed chinchilla (Chinchilla lanigera) / Dermatofitose por Microsporum canis em Chinchila (Chinchilla lanigera)

Long-tailed chinchillas are rodents popularly bred as pets for being a docile animal; however, inthe natural environment, it is a critically endangered species. This study reports the occurrence of ringworm inChinchilla lanigera. A female specimen presenting an alopecia-oval lesion on the left cheek was send for clinicalcare. On examination, the lesion was positive for the Wood test and on the hematological evaluation, and in themycological assessment was performed and Microsporum canis was isolated after 10 days of incubation onSabouraud Dextrose Agar. The animal was treated with topical solution of chlorhexidine and iodopovedine,hydrocortisone ointment and terbinafine cream. Ringworm is an uncommon infection in rodents and M. canis isa commensal fungus of the skin of dogs, being a parasite primarily zoophilic but can cause injury to humans.Ringworms are uncommon in rodents, being attributed in this report to stress associated to indirect contact withcanine material contaminated with the fungus

Chinchilas são roedores popularmente criados como animais de estimação por ser um animal dócil,porém em ambiente natural é uma espécie criticamente ameaçada de extinção. O presente artigo relata aocorrência de dermatofitose em Chinchilla lanigera. Uma fêmea foi encaminhada para atendimento clínicoapresentando uma lesão alopécica-ovalada em face esquerda. No exame clínico a lesão era positiva para o testede Wood e na avaliação micológica sendo isolado Microsporum canis após 10 dias de incubação em AgarSabouraud-Dextrose. O animal foi tratado com solução tópica de clorexidine e iodopovidona, pomada dehidrocortisona e creme de terbinafina. Dermatofitose é uma infecção incomum em roedores e atribuiu-se asalterações deste relato a estresse associado ao contato indireto com material cutâneo canino contaminado com o fungo

Ringworm by Microsporum canis in long-tailed chinchilla (Chinchilla lanigera) / Dermatofitose por Microsporum canis em Chinchila (Chinchilla lanigera)

Long-tailed chinchillas are rodents popularly bred as pets for being a docile animal; however, inthe natural environment, it is a critically endangered species. This study reports the occurrence of ringworm inChinchilla lanigera. A female specimen presenting an alopecia-oval lesion on the left cheek was send for clinicalcare. On examination, the lesion was positive for the Wood test and on the hematological evaluation, and in themycological assessment was performed and Microsporum canis was isolated after 10 days of incubation onSabouraud Dextrose Agar. The animal was treated with topical solution of chlorhexidine and iodopovedine,hydrocortisone ointment and terbinafine cream. Ringworm is an uncommon infection in rodents and M. canis isa commensal fungus of the skin of dogs, being a parasite primarily zoophilic but can cause injury to humans.Ringworms are uncommon in rodents, being attributed in this report to stress associated to indirect contact withcanine material contaminated with the fungus(AU)

Chinchilas são roedores popularmente criados como animais de estimação por ser um animal dócil,porém em ambiente natural é uma espécie criticamente ameaçada de extinção. O presente artigo relata aocorrência de dermatofitose em Chinchilla lanigera. Uma fêmea foi encaminhada para atendimento clínicoapresentando uma lesão alopécica-ovalada em face esquerda. No exame clínico a lesão era positiva para o testede Wood e na avaliação micológica sendo isolado Microsporum canis após 10 dias de incubação em AgarSabouraud-Dextrose. O animal foi tratado com solução tópica de clorexidine e iodopovidona, pomada dehidrocortisona e creme de terbinafina. Dermatofitose é uma infecção incomum em roedores e atribuiu-se asalterações deste relato a estresse associado ao contato indireto com material cutâneo canino contaminado com o fungo(AU)

Conjuntivite bacteriana secundária à doença dentária em chinchilas (Chinchilla lanigera)

Three cases of bacterial conjunctivitis associated with severe dental disease in chinchillas are described. All affected chinchillas had a history of weight loss, ptyalism, and epiphora which progressed to suppurative ocular exsudation. At necropsy incisor and molar teeth revealed marked elongation of the clinical crown and overgrowth of the dental apexes resulting in deformation of the tear ducts. Histologically, there was neutrophilic infiltrate in the conjunctiva and eyelid skin. Microbiological culture carried out in samples from the ocular exsudate yielded Staphylococcus coagulase-positive. Compression of the lacrimal duct by dental overgrowth compromised tear draining and resulting in epiphora. This is a major predisposing factor inducing bacterial ocular infection in chinchillas.

São relatados três casos de conjuntivite bacteriana associada à doença dentária grave em chinchilas. Todas as chinchilas afetadas tinham histórico de emagrecimento, hipersalivação e epífora, que progrediu para exsudação ocular purulenta. Durante a necropsia, foi constatado marcado alongamento da coroa clínica dos incisivos e molares, e crescimento do ápice dentário, causando deformação óssea e compressão do canal lacrimal. Histologicamente, observou-se infiltrado de neutrófilos na conjuntiva e pálpebras. Cultivo microbiológico do exsudato ocular revelou crescimento de Staphylococcus coagulase-positiva . Uma compressão do canal lacrimal pelo crescimento dentário excessivo impediu a drenagem das lágrimas, resultando em epífora. Esse é um importante fator predisponente para infecção bacteriana ocular em chinchilas.

Conjuntivite bacteriana secundária à doença dentária em chinchilas (Chinchilla lanigera)

Three cases of bacterial conjunctivitis associated with severe dental disease in chinchillas are described. All affected chinchillas had a history of weight loss, ptyalism, and epiphora which progressed to suppurative ocular exsudation. At necropsy incisor and molar teeth revealed marked elongation of the clinical crown and overgrowth of the dental apexes resulting in deformation of the tear ducts. Histologically, there was neutrophilic infiltrate in the conjunctiva and eyelid skin. Microbiological culture carried out in samples from the ocular exsudate yielded Staphylococcus coagulase-positive. Compression of the lacrimal duct by dental overgrowth compromised tear draining and resulting in epiphora. This is a major predisposing factor inducing bacterial ocular infection in chinchillas.

São relatados três casos de conjuntivite bacteriana associada à doença dentária grave em chinchilas. Todas as chinchilas afetadas tinham histórico de emagrecimento, hipersalivação e epífora, que progrediu para exsudação ocular purulenta. Durante a necropsia, foi constatado marcado alongamento da coroa clínica dos incisivos e molares, e crescimento do ápice dentário, causando deformação óssea e compressão do canal lacrimal. Histologicamente, observou-se infiltrado de neutrófilos na conjuntiva e pálpebras. Cultivo microbiológico do exsudato ocular revelou crescimento de Staphylococcus coagulase-positiva . Uma compressão do canal lacrimal pelo crescimento dentário excessivo impediu a drenagem das lágrimas, resultando em epífora. Esse é um importante fator predisponente para infecção bacteriana ocular em chinchilas.

Doenças de chinchilas (Chinchilla lanigera) / Diseases of chinchilla (Chinchilla lanigera)

As doenças de chinchilas foram estudadas através da avaliação de laudos de necropsia entre janeiro de 1997 e dezembro de 2011. Em 202 chinchilas necropsiadas, 189 (93,5%) tiveram o diagnóstico determinado, e 13 (6,5%) tiveram diagnóstico inconclusivo, por ausência de lesões ou autólise acentuada. Dentre as 202 chinchilas computadas, 162 eram fêmeas (80%), 37 eram machos (18%), e em quatro chinchilas (2%) o sexo não foi anotado. As chinchilas tinham entre um dia a 12 anos de idade. As doenças foram agrupadas nas seguintes categorias: doenças inflamatórias, doenças causadas por intoxicações, doenças causadas por agentes físicos, doenças metabólicas, doenças parasitárias, doenças degenerativas, distúrbios circulatórios, neoplasmas, distúrbios do desenvolvimento e "outros distúrbios". As doenças inflamatórias foram as mais prevalentes (52 casos [25,7%]) e foram representadas por casos de gastrite (10 casos), listeriose (5 casos), septicemia (5 casos), broncopneumonia bacteriana (4 casos), enterite necrosante (4 casos), piometra (4 casos), diarreia com isolamento de Proteus sp. (3 casos), abscessos subcutâneos e em linfonodos (2 casos), endometrite (2 casos), otite (2 casos), pielonefrite (2 casos), abscesso do ligamento redondo do fígado (1 caso), pneumonia fibrinosa (1 caso), pneumonia intersticial (1 caso), hepatite e colecistite com isolamento de Salmonella sp. (1 caso), histiocitose pulmonar (1 caso), miosite linfo-histiocítica (1 caso) e um caso de dermatofitose (Trichopyton metagrophytes). O segundo grupo de doenças mais prevalentes foram as intoxicações (22,3%), representado por 45 casos de intoxicação por salinomicina. As doenças causadas por agentes físicos (21 casos [10,4%]) incluíam casos de traumas causados por outros animais (8 casos), automutilação após injeção intramuscular (8 casos), prolapso de reto (3 casos) e parto distócico (2 casos). A categoria de doenças metabólicas foi representada por 16 casos (7,9%) de lipidose hepática. As doenças parasitárias (8 casos [4%]) consistiram em infestação por pulga (4 casos), piolho (3 casos) e giardíase (1 caso). Doenças degenerativas (4 casos [2,5%]) incluíam insuficiência renal crônica (2 casos), necrose aleatória de hepatócitos (1 caso) e necrose muscular de origem desconhecida (1 caso). Os distúrbios circulatórios incluíram dois casos (0,99%) de insuficiência cardíaca congestiva. Neoplasmas foram representados por dois casos (0,99%) de adenocarcinoma gástrico. Um caso de atresia ani, associado a ausência do trato reprodutor, intestino grosso e rins policíticos representou a categoria de distúrbios do desenvolvimento (0,5%). Algumas doenças não se enquadraram nas categorias acima e foram enquadradas em "outros distúrbios" (38 casos [18,8%]). Nesta categoria, doenças dentárias foi o distúrbio mais comum, diagnosticado em 9% (18 de 202) de todas as chinchilas examinadas. Seguido por casos de hipertermia (14 casos), dois casos de anemia, dois casos de metaplasia de células adiposas do córtex da adrenal, e dois casos de mucometra.(AU)

Diseases of chinchilla were studied through the review of necropsy reports of 202 postmortem examinations carried out in this species from January 1997 to December 2011. One hundred and eighty nine of these necropsies (93.5%) had a conclusive diagnosis and in 13 (6.5%) a conclusive diagnosis was not reached due either absence of lesions or advanced autolysis. One hundred and sixty two (80%) of the necropsied chinchilla were females and 37 (18%) were males and the sex was not recorded in four cases (2%). Ages of necropsied chinchillas varied from one day to 12-years-old. The encountered diseases were grouped in the following categories: inflammatory diseases, diseases caused by intoxications, diseases caused by physical agents, metabolic diseases, parasitism, degenerative diseases, circulatory disturbances, developmental disorders and "other disorders". Inflammatory diseases were the most prevalent (52 cases [25.7%]) and included gastritis (10 cases), necrotizing enteritis (6 cases), listeriosis (5 cases), septicemia (5 cases), bacterial bronchopneumonia (4 cases), pyometra (4 cases), diarrhea associated with Proteus sp. (3 cases), subcutaneous and lymph node abscesses (2 cases), endometritis (2 cases), otitis (2 cases), pyelonephritis (2 cases), abscesses in hepatic the round ligament (1 cases), fibrinous pneumonia (1 case), interstitial pneumonia (1 case), hepatitis and cholecystitis associated with Salmonella sp. (1 case), pulmonary histiocytosis (1 case), and dermatophytosis by Trichopyton metagrophytes (1 case). The second most prevalent group of diseases was that caused by intoxications (22,3% of the cases) including 45 cases of intoxication by salinomycin. Diseases caused by physical agents (21 cases [10.4%]) included trauma cases caused by other animals (8 cases), self mutilation secondary to intramuscular injection (8 cases), rectal prolapsed (3 cases) and dystocia (2 cases). Metabolic diseases were represented by 16 cases (7.9%) of hepatic lipidosis. Parasitic diseases were represented by 8 cases (4%) flea (4 cases) lice (3 cases) infestations and one case o giardiasis. Degenerative diseases (4 cases or 2,5%) included two cases of chronic renal failure, one case of scattered hepatocellular necrosis and one case of muscle necrosis of unknown origin. Circulatory disturbances included two cases (0.99%) of congestive heart failure. Neoplasms were represented by two cases (0.99%) of gastric adenocarcinoma. Developmental disorders included one (0,5%) case of atresia ani associated with polycystic kidneys and absence of reproductive tract and large intestine. Thirty eight cases (18.8%) did not fit in any of the above categories and were placed as "other disorders". In this category dental disease was the most commonly (8 cases or 9%) diagnosed disorder, followed by 14 cases (6,9%) of hyperthermia, tow cases of anemia, two cases of fat metaplasia of adrenal cortex and two cases of mucometra.(AU)

Doenças de chinchilas (Chinchilla lanigera) / Diseases of chinchilla (Chinchilla lanigera)

As doenças de chinchilas foram estudadas através da avaliação de laudos de necropsia entre janeiro de 1997 e dezembro de 2011. Em 202 chinchilas necropsiadas, 189 (93,5%) tiveram o diagnóstico determinado, e 13 (6,5%) tiveram diagnóstico inconclusivo, por ausência de lesões ou autólise acentuada. Dentre as 202 chinchilas computadas, 162 eram fêmeas (80%), 37 eram machos (18%), e em quatro chinchilas (2%) o sexo não foi anotado. As chinchilas tinham entre um dia a 12 anos de idade. As doenças foram agrupadas nas seguintes categorias: doenças inflamatórias, doenças causadas por intoxicações, doenças causadas por agentes físicos, doenças metabólicas, doenças parasitárias, doenças degenerativas, distúrbios circulatórios, neoplasmas, distúrbios do desenvolvimento e "outros distúrbios". As doenças inflamatórias foram as mais prevalentes (52 casos [25,7%]) e foram representadas por casos de gastrite (10 casos), listeriose (5 casos), septicemia (5 casos), broncopneumonia bacteriana (4 casos), enterite necrosante (4 casos), piometra (4 casos), diarreia com isolamento de Proteus sp. (3 casos), abscessos subcutâneos e em linfonodos (2 casos), endometrite (2 casos), otite (2 casos), pielonefrite (2 casos), abscesso do ligamento redondo do fígado (1 caso), pneumonia fibrinosa (1 caso), pneumonia intersticial (1 caso), hepatite e colecistite com isolamento de Salmonella sp. (1 caso), histiocitose pulmonar (1 caso), miosite linfo-histiocítica (1 caso) e um caso de dermatofitose (Trichopyton metagrophytes). O segundo grupo de doenças mais prevalentes foram as intoxicações (22,3%), representado por 45 casos de intoxicação por salinomicina. As doenças causadas por agentes físicos (21 casos [10,4%]) incluíam casos de traumas causados por outros animais (8 casos), automutilação após injeção intramuscular (8 casos), prolapso de reto (3 casos) e parto distócico (2 casos). A categoria de doenças metabólicas foi representada por 16 casos (7,9%) de lipidose hepática. As doenças parasitárias (8 casos [4%]) consistiram em infestação por pulga (4 casos), piolho (3 casos) e giardíase (1 caso). Doenças degenerativas (4 casos [2,5%]) incluíam insuficiência renal crônica (2 casos), necrose aleatória de hepatócitos (1 caso) e necrose muscular de origem desconhecida (1 caso). Os distúrbios circulatórios incluíram dois casos (0,99%) de insuficiência cardíaca congestiva. Neoplasmas foram representados por dois casos (0,99%) de adenocarcinoma gástrico. Um caso de atresia ani, associado a ausência do trato reprodutor, intestino grosso e rins policíticos representou a categoria de distúrbios do desenvolvimento (0,5%). Algumas doenças não se enquadraram nas categorias acima e foram enquadradas em "outros distúrbios" (38 casos [18,8%]). Nesta categoria, doenças dentárias foi o distúrbio mais comum, diagnosticado em 9% (18 de 202) de todas as chinchilas examinadas. Seguido por casos de hipertermia (14 casos), dois casos de anemia, dois casos de metaplasia de células adiposas do córtex da adrenal, e dois casos de mucometra.(AU)

Diseases of chinchilla were studied through the review of necropsy reports of 202 postmortem examinations carried out in this species from January 1997 to December 2011. One hundred and eighty nine of these necropsies (93.5%) had a conclusive diagnosis and in 13 (6.5%) a conclusive diagnosis was not reached due either absence of lesions or advanced autolysis. One hundred and sixty two (80%) of the necropsied chinchilla were females and 37 (18%) were males and the sex was not recorded in four cases (2%). Ages of necropsied chinchillas varied from one day to 12-years-old. The encountered diseases were grouped in the following categories: inflammatory diseases, diseases caused by intoxications, diseases caused by physical agents, metabolic diseases, parasitism, degenerative diseases, circulatory disturbances, developmental disorders and "other disorders". Inflammatory diseases were the most prevalent (52 cases [25.7%]) and included gastritis (10 cases), necrotizing enteritis (6 cases), listeriosis (5 cases), septicemia (5 cases), bacterial bronchopneumonia (4 cases), pyometra (4 cases), diarrhea associated with Proteus sp. (3 cases), subcutaneous and lymph node abscesses (2 cases), endometritis (2 cases), otitis (2 cases), pyelonephritis (2 cases), abscesses in hepatic the round ligament (1 cases), fibrinous pneumonia (1 case), interstitial pneumonia (1 case), hepatitis and cholecystitis associated with Salmonella sp. (1 case), pulmonary histiocytosis (1 case), and dermatophytosis by Trichopyton metagrophytes (1 case). The second most prevalent group of diseases was that caused by intoxications (22,3% of the cases) including 45 cases of intoxication by salinomycin. Diseases caused by physical agents (21 cases [10.4%]) included trauma cases caused by other animals (8 cases), self mutilation secondary to intramuscular injection (8 cases), rectal prolapsed (3 cases) and dystocia (2 cases). Metabolic diseases were represented by 16 cases (7.9%) of hepatic lipidosis. Parasitic diseases were represented by 8 cases (4%) flea (4 cases) lice (3 cases) infestations and one case o giardiasis. Degenerative diseases (4 cases or 2,5%) included two cases of chronic renal failure, one case of scattered hepatocellular necrosis and one case of muscle necrosis of unknown origin. Circulatory disturbances included two cases (0.99%) of congestive heart failure. Neoplasms were represented by two cases (0.99%) of gastric adenocarcinoma. Developmental disorders included one (0,5%) case of atresia ani associated with polycystic kidneys and absence of reproductive tract and large intestine. Thirty eight cases (18.8%) did not fit in any of the above categories and were placed as "other disorders". In this category dental disease was the most commonly (8 cases or 9%) diagnosed disorder, followed by 14 cases (6,9%) of hyperthermia, tow cases of anemia, two cases of fat metaplasia of adrenal cortex and two cases of mucometra.(AU)

Surtos de intoxicação por salinomicina em chinchilas (Chinchilla lanigera) / Outbreaks of salinomycin toxicosis in Chinchillas (Chinchilla lanigera)

Quatro surtos de intoxicação por salinomicina são descrito em chinchilas de três municípios do Estado do Rio Grande do Sul. Uma semana após a ingestão de ração contendo 37 ppm de salinomicina, aproximadamente duas mil chinchilas de quatro fazendas expostas diminuíram o consumo da ração. Quatrocentos e vinte sete chinchilas demonstraram apatia. Dessas, duzentos e setenta e sete desenvolveram decúbito esternal e lateral, dispneia e coma, seguidos de morte. As primeiras mortes ocorreram oito dias após a ingestão da ração. A evolução dos sinais clínicos até a morte ou eutanásia foi de 2-5 dias. Os exames bioquímicos do soro sanguíneo em quatro chinchilas revelaram níveis aumentados da alanina aminotransferase, aspartato transaminase, fosfatase alcalina, creatina cinase, glicose, triglicerídeos e colesterol total. Quarenta e cinco chinchilas foram submetidas à necropsia. Os achados macroscópicos consistiam de marcada lipidose hepática em todas as chinchilas necropsiadas; fetos em estado de decomposição em doze chinchilas que estavam prenhes. Microscopicamente, múltiplas fibras musculares esqueléticas estavam hipereosinofílicas, tumefeitas e com perda das estriações. Nas chinchilas que sobreviveram por mais dias era possível observar segmentos fragmentados de miofibras afetadas (necrose flocular) e regeneração de miofibras. No fígado foi observada marcada degeneração gordurosa. Não foram observadas anormalidades microscópicas nos demais órgãos analisados. Análises à procura de aflatoxinas, resíduos de pesticidas e isolamento bacteriano foram negativos. A análise da ração por cromatografia líquida revelou 37ppm de salinomicina na ração. A ração suspeita foi administrada a 12 chinchilas, três das quais (25 por cento) morreram apresentando lesões semelhantes às observadas nas chinchilas com a doença natural. O diagnóstico de intoxicação por salinomicina foi baseado na epidemiologia, lesões histológicas características e na presença de salinomicina na ração administrada nas quatro criações envolvidas.(AU)

Four outbreaks of ionophore toxicosis are described in chinchillas from four commercial farms located in three municipalities in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, southern Brazil. Approximately 2,000 chinchillas showed decrease in food intake one week after start ingesting a ration containing 37 ppm of salinomycin. Four hundred and twenty seven chinchillas showed apathy. Of those 277 develop sternal and lateral recumbence, dyspnea and coma followed by death. First deaths occurred eight days after the start on the salinomycin containing ration; clinical course was 2-5 days. Serum chemistry carried out in four chinchillas revealed increased levels of alanine transaminase, aspartate transaminase, alkaline phosphatase, creatinenin kinase, glucose, triglicerids and total cholesterol. Forty five affected chinchillas were necropsied; consistent necropsy findings were marked hepatic lipidosis; additionally twelve pregnant chinchillas had dead decomposing fetuses. Microscopically skeletal muscles had multifocally swollen hypereosinophilic myofibers with loss of cross striations. In those chinchillas that survived longer than a few days, microscopic features in the skeletal muscle included segmental fragmentation of dead fibers (floccular necrosis) and myofiber regeneration. Marked fatty degeneration was observed in the livers of all affected chinchillas. No microscopic changes were observed in other organs. Chemical analysis in the feed consumed by the chinchillas did not detect aflatoxins or pesticides residues; bacterial culture performed in samples of liver and intestinal contents from necropsied chinchillas yielded no significant bacterial growth. Analysis by thin layer chromatography performed in the ration consumed by the chinchillas detected 37 ppm of salinomycin. The suspected ration was fed to 12 chinchillas three of which (25 percent) died with similar lesions to those observed in the natural cases. The diagnosis of salinomycin toxicosis was based in the epidemiology, histology of the lesions, on the detection of significant amounts of salinomycin in the ration used to feed the chinchillas in the four involved farms and on the reproduction of disease by feeding the suspected ration to susceptible chinchillas.(AU)

Necrotizing enteritis associated with Clostridium perfringensType B in chinchillas (Chinchilla lanigera) / Enterite necrosante associado a infecção por Clostridium perfringenstipo B em chinchilas (Chinchilla lanigera)

Four 3-4 month-old chinchillas (Chinchilla lanigera) from a commercial flock of 395 chinchillas, were found dead with evidence of previous diarrhea and prolapsed rectum. A fifth 8 month-old chinchilla died 8 hours after being found recumbent, apathetic, diarrheic and with a prolapsed rectum. Two chinchillas were necropsied and observed gross lesions consisted of extensive hemorrhagic enteritis, mild pulmonary edema and enlarged and yellow liver; this latter finding was particularly prominent in the chinchilla presenting longer clinical course. Histologically there was necrotizing enteritis associated with abundant bacterial rods aggregates in the intestinal surface epithelium and within the lamina propria. In the lungs there were small amounts of pink proteinaceous material (edema) in the interstitium and marked vacuolar hepatocellullar degeneration (lipidosis) in the liver. Anaerobic cultures from the intestinal contents of one of the affected chinchillas yielded Clostridium perfringens. Genotyping of this C. perfringens isolate was achieved by multiplex polymerase chain reaction (mPCR) as C. perfringenstype B due to detection of alpha, beta and epsilon-toxin genes. These findings suggest C. perfringens type B as an important cause of sudden or acute death in chinchillas.(AU)

Quatro chinchilas (Chinchilla lanigera) com 3-4 meses de idade, pertencentes a um criadouro comercial com 395 chinchilas, foram encontradas mortas com evidências de diarreia prévia e prolapso de reto. Uma quinta chinchila, de oito meses de idade, foi encontrada em decúbito, apática, com diarreia e prolopaso de reto, e morreu após oito horas. Duas chinchilas foram submetidas à necropsia. As lesões macroscópicas consistiam de extensa enterite hemorrágica, moderado edema pulmonar e fígado pálido e aumentado de volume; este achado foi particularmente proeminente na chinchila que apresentou curso clínico mais longo. Histologicamente foi observado enterite necrosante associada a numerosos agregados bacterianos na superfície epitelial com invasão da lâmina própria. Nos pulmões foi observada pequena quantidade de material proteináceo róseo amorfo (edema) no interstício e marcada degeneração hepatocelular vacuolar (lipidose). Cultura anaeróbica do conteúdo intestinal de uma chinchila afetada revelou crescimento de Clostridium perfringens. A genotipificação de C. perfringensisolado, realizada por reação em cadeia de polymerase multiplex(mPCR), revelou C. perfringenstipo B pela detecção das tóxinas alfa, beta e épisilon. Estes achados sugerem que infecção por C. perfringenstipo B é uma importante causa de morte súbita ou aguda em chinchilas.(AU)

Aspectos morfológicos, morfométricos e topográficos do aparelho digestório de Chinchilla Lanigera / Morphological, morphometric and topographical description of the digestive tract in Chinchilla lanigera

O objetivo deste estudo foi o de descrever os aspectos morfológicos e topográficos do Aparelho Digestório (AD) de chinchilas mediante a dissecação de 10 animais. Os segmentos do AD foram coletados e demarcados, seguido de análise volumétrica dos órgãos cavitários, através de injeção de solução salina a 60°C, além da mensuração dos comprimentos dos órgãos tubulares. Nos órgãos parenquimatosos realizou-se a sua pesagem. Durante a análise da disposição dos órgãos, evisceração e medição, observou-se que a cavidade oral é característica de roedores, as glândulas salivares são semelhantes às de lagomorfos e órgãos como esôfago, estômago, duodeno, cólon transverso, fígado, pâncreas e baço apresentam-se dispostos de forma semelhante ao descrito nas outras espécies. Já o jejuno e o cólon descendente foram evidenciados muito extensos e dispostos de forma ondulatória, suspensos no teto da cavidade abdominal. O íleo assemelhou-se ao descrito as outras espécies, porém sua disposição topográfica é da direita para esquerda, direcionando-se ao ceco, o qual constitui-se de duas porções distintas e bem desenvolvidas. Ambas as partes encontram-se localizadas à esquerda do plano mediano. O cólon ascendente dispõe-se de forma bastante particular, ocorrendo a presença de uma alça dupla que realiza um “looping” junto ao fígado. Uma característica relevante foi evidenciada ao comparar-se o reto de machos e fêmeas, onde nos machos o comprimento é maior. De posse dos resultados concluímos que apesar da chinchila ser um roedor, há características próprias da espécie e também outras que assemelham-se aos lagomorfos, constituindo uma relação entre essas ordens. (AU)

The aim of this study was to describe the morphological and topographic aspects of the chinchillas digestive apparatus (DA) through dissection of 10 animals. We collected the DA segments and made the volumetric analysis of cavitary organs through injection of saline solution at 60°C, and measuring of the tubular organs. The parenchymal organs were weighed. During analysis of the position of organs, evisceration and measuring, was observed that the oral cavity is typical of rodents, the salivary glands are similar to lagomorphs and organs as esophagus, stomach, duodenum, transversal colon, liver, pancreas and spleen were disposed in similar way to described to other species. On the other hand, jejunum and descending colon were found to be very long and disposed on a wavy way, hanging from the roof of the abdominal cavity. The ileum was found to be similar to other species, but its disposition topographic is from the right to the left, heading to cecum, which is made of two well developed distinct portions. Both portions are located to the left of the median plane. Ascending colon is disposed in a very particular way, in which we observe a double loop which makes a circle at the liver. A relevant characteristic was in evidence comparing the rectum of males and females: males' is longer. Based on these data we conclude that despite the fact that chinchillas are rodents, they have particular characteristics of their own, and other characteristics similar to lagomorphs, being then a connection between these orders. (AU)

Anestesia epidural em Chinchilla lanigera – relato de caso / Epidural anesthesia in Chinchilla lanigera – case report / Anestesia epidural en Chinchilla lanigera – reporte de un caso

As chinchilas são mamíferos de pequeno porte da ordem Rodentia e da família Chinchillidae. A espécie Chinchilla lanigera é a mais comum nos criadouros, e indivíduos dessa espécie são muito utilizados como animais de estimação. O trauma ortopédico em pequenos roedores é frequentemente resultado de acidentes residenciais, como queda de objetos, fechamento de portas e pisoteio por parte de outros animais. Os primeiros socorros consistem em controlar o estado de colapso, as alterações respiratórias, os distúrbios abdominais e as hemorragias. Este trabalho relata o protocolo anestésico elaborado para um exemplar de Chinchilla lanigera submetido à cirurgia de amputação de membro pélvico após fratura exposta de fêmur. O protocolo utilizando anestesia epidural mostrou-se seguro, pois permitiu estabilidade dos parâmetros fisiológicos, rápida recuperação e ausência de dor nos períodos trans e pós-operatório.

Chinchillas are small mammals of the order Rodentia and family Chinchillidae. The species Chinchilla lanigera is the most commonly bred; individuals of this species are often used as pets. Orthopedic trauma in small rodents often results from domestic accidents such as falling objects, slamming doors and trampling by other animals. First aid consists in controlling the state of collapse, respiratory changes, abdominal disorders and bleeding. This study reports the anesthetic protocol developed for a Chinchilla lanigera undergoing an amputation surgery of the pelvic member due to an exposed fracture of the femur. The protocol used epidural anesthesia and proved to be safe, as it allowed stabilization of the physiological parameters, rapid recovery and absence of pain trans- and postoperatively.

Las chinchillas son pequeños mamíferos del orden Rodentia y familia Chinchillidae. En los criaderos la especie más común es la Chinchilla lanigera que suele ser la más utilizada como animales de compañía. El trauma ortopédico en pequeños roedores se suele producir por accidentes residenciales, como la caída de objetos, cierre de puertas y pisotones provocados por otros animales. Los primeros auxilios consisten en controlar el estado de colapso, las alteraciones respiratorias, disturbios abdominales y los procesos hemorrágicos. Este trabajo relata el protocolo anestésico para un ejemplar de Chinchilla lanigera en la que se realizó una amputación de miembro posterior, debido a una fractura expuesta de fémur. El protocolo mediante la utilización de anestesia epidural fue seguro, manteniendo estables los parámetros fisiológicos, con rápida recuperación y ausencia de dolor tanto en el intra, como el post operatorio.