Morphometric descriptive report of scleral ossicle rings, by ultrasound and computed tomography, in three Testudines specimens / Relato descritivo morfobiométrico dos anéis de ossículos esclerais, por ultrassonografia e tomografia computadorizada, em três espécimes de Testudines

The scleral ossicle rings function has been related to mechanical protection, muscle fixation, support for eyeball shape and visual accommodation. There are few morphobiometric reports on these rings in different Testudines species, and we performed ultrasound (US) and computed tomography (CT) of the scleral ossicle rings in one green turtle (Chelonia mydas), one black-bellied slider (Trachemys dorbigni) and one red-footed tortoise (Chelonoidis carbonarius). The US and CT of the ossicle rings were performed for anatomical identification. The thickness, density, width, and diameters of each ring were measured. The US and CT of the scleral ossicle rings of three animals showed single and continuous circular structures, located in the anterior pole. These structures were easily observed in C. mydas, whose rings were the biggest, thickest and widest. The T. dorbigni CT presented decreased dimensions and the ossicles were the most difficult to identify. Bone density in the superior region was greater than in the inferior of each ring in all animals. Non-invasive imaging exams are good tools to study the anatomy of the ocular skeleton. The scleral ossicle rings of the three specimens presented general morphological similarities and CT enabled visualizing a greater number of details of the ring bone morphology.

Os anéis de ossículos esclerais têm sua função relacionada à proteção mecânica, fixação muscular, suporte para o formato do bulbo ocular e acomodação visual, contudo existem poucos relatos morfobiométricos sobre esses anéis em diferentes espécies de Testudines. Desta forma, foi realizada a avaliação morfobiométrica, por ultrassom (US) e tomografia computadorizada (TC), dos anéis de ossículos esclerais em uma tartaruga verde (Chelonia mydas), um tigre-d'água (Trachemys dorbigni) e um jabuti-piranga (Chelonoidis carbonarius). Foram realizadas US e TC dos anéis esclerais dos três animais para identificação anatômica, espessura, densidade, largura e diâmetros. A US e a TC dos três animais mostraram estruturas circulares únicas e contínuas, localizadas no polo anterior. Estas estruturas foram facilmente observadas na C. mydas, cujos anéis eram os maiores, mais espessos e mais largos. A TC da T. dorbigni apresentou dimensões reduzidas e os ossículos foram dificilmente identificados. A densidade óssea na região superior foi maior comparativamente a parte inferior de cada anel, em todos os animais. Exames de imagem não invasivos mostraram-se bons instrumentos para estudo do esqueleto escleral. Os anéis de ossículos esclerais dos três espécimes apresentaram semelhanças morfológicas gerais e a TC permitiu visualizar um maior número de detalhes da morfologia óssea do anel.

A new species of barred Sternopygus (Gymnotiformes: Sternopygidae) from the Orinoco River

A new species of Sternopygus is described from the Orinoco River of Venezuela using traditional methods of morphometrics and meristics, and micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) imaging for osteological analysis. The new species is readily separated from all congeners in having broad, vertical pigment bars that extend from the mid-dorsum to the ventral margin of the pterygiophores. A similar color pattern, characterized by subtle differences in the densities and sizes of chromatophores, is also present in juveniles of S. obtusirostris from the Amazon River, juveniles of S. sabaji from rivers of the Guiana Shield, and S. astrabes from clearwater and blackwater terra firme streams of lowlands around the Guiana Shield. The new species further differs from other congeners in the Orinoco basin by having a reduced humeral pigment blotch with poorly defined margins, a proportionally smaller head, a longer body cavity, a more slender body shape in lateral profile, and in having vertical pigment bars that extend ventrally to the pterygiophores (vs. pigment saddles not reaching the pterygiophores). The description of this species raises to three the number of Sternopygus species in the Orinoco basin, and to 11 the total number of Sternopygus species.(AU)

Se describe una nueva especie de Sternopygus del río Orinoco de Venezuela utilizando métodos tradicionales de morfometría y merística, y microtomografía computarizada (micro-CT) para análisis osteológico. La nueva especie se distingue fácilmente de todos los congéneres por tener barras de pigmento verticales anchas que se extienden desde la parte media del dorso hasta el margen ventral de los pterigióforos. Un patrón de color similar, caracterizado por diferencias sutiles en las densidades y tamaños de los cromatóforos, también está presente en juveniles de S. obtusirostris del río Amazonas, juveniles de S. sabaji de ríos del Escudo Guayanés y S. astrabes de aguas claras y arroyos de tierra firme de aguas negras de las tierras bajas alrededor del Escudo Guayanés. La nueva especie se diferencia aún más de otros congéneres en la cuenca del Orinoco por tener una mancha de pigmento humeral reducida con márgenes mal definidos, una cabeza proporcionalmente más pequeña, una cavidad corporal más larga, una forma corporal más delgada en el perfil lateral y por tener barras de pigmento verticales que extenderse ventralmente a los pterigióforos (frente a las monturas de pigmentos que no llegan a los pterigióforos). La descripción de esta especie eleva a tres el número de especies de Sternopygus en la cuenca del Orinoco y a 11 el número total de especies de Sternopygus.(AU)

Relation of fibrocartilaginous embolism and acute and non-compressive nucleus pulposus extrusion with imaging tests: case report / Relação de embolia fibrocartilaginosa e extrusão aguda e não-compressiva do núcleo pulposus com testes de imagem: relato de caso

Fibrocartilaginous embolism (FCEM) and acute, non-compressive nucleus pulposus extrusion (ANNPE) are non-compressive myelopathies that are difficult to differentiate. The definitive diagnosis is obtained only with histology, but the presumptive diagnosis is made through clinical signs and imaging tests. The aim of this study is to report the imaging tests performed for the diagnosis of a neurological clinical case and discuss the best diagnostic method. After attending the patient, complementary tests were requested. Radiography results showed no change. The computed tomography diagnostic impression indicated distal protrusion between C6-C7, T11-T12, T13-L1 followed by mild spinal cord compression defined by the presence of a ventral hyperattenuating region. Magnetic resonance (RMI), showed a slight T2W hypersignal, well delimited in the gray matter, lateralized to the right, over the cranial third of C7. Concluding that the magnetic resonance is the method that brought more information for the diagnosis, in which the others were not described medullary alterations pertinent to FCEM and ANNPE. With their fair prognosis, the absence of histological diagnosis of these diseases may be a limiting factor in this study and, in relation to the RMI alterations being very similar between FCEM and ANNPE it is not possible to diagnose fully accurately.

A embolia fibrocartilaginosa (EFC) e a extrusão aguda não compressiva do núcleo pulposo (EANCNP) são mielopatias não compressivas de difícil diferenciação. O diagnóstico definitivo é obtido apenas com a histologia, mas o diagnóstico presuntivo é feito por meio de sinais clínicos e exames de imagem. O objetivo deste trabalho é relatar os exames de imagem realizados para o diagnóstico de um caso clínico neurológico e discutir o melhor método diagnóstico. Após o atendimento do paciente, foram solicitados exames complementares. Os resultados da radiografia não mostraram nenhuma alteração. A impressão diagnóstica da tomografia computadorizada indicou protrusão distal entre C6-C7, T11-T12, T13-L1, seguida de leve compressão medular definida pela presença de região hiperatenuante ventral. À ressonância magnética (RM), apresentava discreto hipersinal em T2W, bem delimitado na substância cinzenta, lateralizado à direita, sobre o terço cranial de C7. Concluiu-se que a ressonância magnética é o método que mais trouxe informações para o diagnóstico, os demais métodos não foram descritos alterações medulares pertinentes à EFC e à EANCNP. Com seu prognóstico favorável, a ausência de diagnóstico histológico dessas doenças pode ser um fator limitante neste estudo. Em relação às alterações do RM serem muito semelhantes entre EFC e EANCNP, não é possível diagnosticar com total precisão.

Recurrent thyroid carcinoma in a dog - diagnosis by 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography

Background: Thyroid tumor is a common endocrine tumor that accounts for up to 3.8% of all tumors in dogs. Most of them are malignant and usually nonfunctional in dogs. 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (FDG-PET) is an imaging modality that detects intracellular accumulation of radioactive deoxyglucose administered in the body and is used in combination with computed tomography to provide functional information with exact anatomical localization. It is used in human medicine to detect residual or recurrent head and neck neoplasm after treatments, such as surgical resection. This report describes the first case of diagnosing recurrent thyroid carcinoma (TC) through FDG-PET in a dog. Case: A 9-year-old castrated male Maltese dog presented with a palpable mobile mass in the right ventral cervical region. Radiography and ultrasonography (US) showed a radiopaque mass adjacent to the trachea, and the right thyroid gland was enlarged on computed tomography. The surgically excised mass was encapsulated and measured to be 2.3 × 1.0 × 3.4 cm (width x length x height) in size. Histopathologically, the mass was diagnosed as differentiated follicular TC, and gross and vascular invasions were observed. To prevent recurrence, postoperative carboplatin chemotherapy was performed for 5 months. Two months after completion of chemotherapy, a nodule of approximately 7 mm in diameter was detected in the thyroidectomy bed by US. FDG-PET scanning was performed as an effective means of evaluating the malignancy, local recurrence, and metastasis of differentiated follicular TC. The nodule had the dimensions of 2.8 × 5.9 × 8.6 mm, a maximum standardized uptake value (SUV) of 8.49, and a mean SUV of 5.6. The results of FDG-PET suggested the recurrence of TC; therefore, the second chemotherapy protocol using toceranib was applied for 16 months. After initiation of the 2nd chemotherapy, follow-up examinations were conducted approximately every 4 months. On the 134th day, although the nodule was not palpated, its size was observed to have increased to 5.0 × 3.8 × 13.6 mm on cervical US on the 232nd day, showing heterogeneous and hypoechoic parenchyma. On the 405th day, the tumor was enlarged to a size of 13.4 × 12.9 × 22 mm and identified as a lobular, amorphous shape, and its heterogeneity was increased. Moreover, 2 pulmonary nodules with well-defined margins were found on radiography in the left caudal lung lobe (9 × 10 mm and 12 × 12 mm [width × length]); thus, lung metastasis was suspected. On the 536th day, anorexia and lethargy occurred, and the dog was lost to follow-up. Discussion: In the present case, local recurrence of TC was suspected based on cervical US. Although US was useful as a screening tool, additional examinations were necessary for evaluating local invasiveness, malignancy, and nodal/distant metastasis. FDG-PET can detect recurrence at an early stage because it can sense increased tumor metabolism through physiologic absorption of FDG, even before the beginning of anatomic change in the lesion. Therefore, FDG-PET can assist in treatment planning and provide better prognosis. In humans, focal FDG uptake and a high maximum SUV in the thyroid gland on FDG-PET were associated with a higher risk of cancer. Because there was no evidence of neoplasia except the thyroid lesion during the FDG-PET examination, the tumor showed an increasingly malignant pattern of the thyroid gland on US during the follow-up period, and the metastatic pulmonary nodules were identified on the 650th day after the thyroidectomy, the present case was diagnosed as recurrent TC. This report describes the use of FDG-PET for diagnosing local recurrence of TC, pointing to FDG-PET as a potential strategy to evaluate loco-regional recurrence and distant metastasis of TC.

Morphometric descriptive report of scleral ossicle rings, by ultrasound and computed tomography, in three Testudines specimens / Relato descritivo morfobiométrico dos anéis de ossículos esclerais, por ultrassonografia e tomografia computadorizada, em três espécimes de Testudines

ABSTRACT: The scleral ossicle rings function has been related to mechanical protection, muscle fixation, support for eyeball shape and visual accommodation. There are few morphobiometric reports on these rings in different Testudines species, and we performed ultrasound (US) and computed tomography (CT) of the scleral ossicle rings in one green turtle (Chelonia mydas), one black-bellied slider (Trachemys dorbigni) and one red-footed tortoise (Chelonoidis carbonarius). The US and CT of the ossicle rings were performed for anatomical identification. The thickness, density, width, and diameters of each ring were measured. The US and CT of the scleral ossicle rings of three animals showed single and continuous circular structures, located in the anterior pole. These structures were easily observed in C. mydas, whose rings were the biggest, thickest and widest. The T. dorbigni CT presented decreased dimensions and the ossicles were the most difficult to identify. Bone density in the superior region was greater than in the inferior of each ring in all animals. Non-invasive imaging exams are good tools to study the anatomy of the ocular skeleton. The scleral ossicle rings of the three specimens presented general morphological similarities and CT enabled visualizing a greater number of details of the ring bone morphology.

RESUMO: Os anéis de ossículos esclerais têm sua função relacionada à proteção mecânica, fixação muscular, suporte para o formato do bulbo ocular e acomodação visual, contudo existem poucos relatos morfobiométricos sobre esses anéis em diferentes espécies de Testudines. Desta forma, foi realizada a avaliação morfobiométrica, por ultrassom (US) e tomografia computadorizada (TC), dos anéis de ossículos esclerais em uma tartaruga verde (Chelonia mydas), um tigre-d'água (Trachemys dorbigni) e um jabuti-piranga (Chelonoidis carbonarius). Foram realizadas US e TC dos anéis esclerais dos três animais para identificação anatômica, espessura, densidade, largura e diâmetros. A US e a TC dos três animais mostraram estruturas circulares únicas e contínuas, localizadas no polo anterior. Estas estruturas foram facilmente observadas na C. mydas, cujos anéis eram os maiores, mais espessos e mais largos. A TC da T. dorbigni apresentou dimensões reduzidas e os ossículos foram dificilmente identificados. A densidade óssea na região superior foi maior comparativamente a parte inferior de cada anel, em todos os animais. Exames de imagem não invasivos mostraram-se bons instrumentos para estudo do esqueleto escleral. Os anéis de ossículos esclerais dos três espécimes apresentaram semelhanças morfológicas gerais e a TC permitiu visualizar um maior número de detalhes da morfologia óssea do anel.

Desvio angular tibial varo bilateral em dachshund: relato de caso / Angular deviation pes tibial varus in Dachshund: case report

Varos tibial é um desvio angular decorrente do fechamento precoce parcial da linha fisária de crescimento do osso, levando a um desalinhamento articular com apoio e sobrecarga anormais, causando, secundariamente, osteoartrite, claudicação, luxação de patela, dor e problemas articulares. Neste relato, uma cadela da raça dachshund foi diagnosticada com tal afecção bilateralmente. Foi observado um desvio de ambos os membros posteriores aos 6 meses de idade. A confirmação da deformidade varo foi feita por meio do exame radiográfico e, posteriormente, foi realizada a tomografia e estereolitografia para o planejamento da cirurgia para correção do desvio angular, utilizando a metodologia de correção para desvio angular, denominada de técnica do centro de rotação da angulação (CORA) fechada, removendo uma cunha do osso para a correção da deformidade. A cirurgia foi bem-sucedida, apresentando bons resultados conformacionais, evoluindo sem complicações.(AU)

Tibial pes varus is an angular deviation resulting from the early partial closure of the physeal line of bone growth, leading to joint misalignment with abnormal support and overload, secondarily causing osteoarthritis, claudication, patellar dislocation, pain, among other joint problems. In this report, a female Dachshund canine was diagnosed with this condition bilaterally in the tibias. It was observed a deviation of both hind limbs at 6 months of age. Confirmation of the varus deformity was made through radiographic examination, and later computed tomography and stereolithography were performed to plan the surgery to correct bilateral angular deviation of the tibia, using the angular deviation technique (CORA) closed, removing a wedge from the bone to correct the deviation angular. The surgery was successful, and the angular deviation was correctly corrected, presenting good results to the animal, without complications.(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.

Extensive emphysematous pyelonephritis in a nondiabetic female cat - treatment with unilateral nephroureterectomy

Background: Emphysematous pyelonephritis (EPN) is an acute, severe necrotizing infection of the renal parenchyma and surrounding tissues that results in gas formation in the kidney, collecting system, or surroundings. EPN is a rare condition in veterinary medicine and occurs most frequently in dogs with diabetes mellitus. Although the prognosis of medical management in animals is poor, the standardized treatment protocol according to EPN severity is unclear. This report describes the first case of a nondiabetic female cat with extensive EPN and good prognosis following direct nephroureterectomy (NU). Case: A 10-year-old spayed female cat presented with the chief complaint of an acute loss of weight within 1 week, vomiting, and disorientation including stumbling, discoordination, circling, wobbling, head tilting, and difficulties in standing. At presentation, the patient had a body condition score of 1/9 and weighed 2.6 kg. Blood examination revealed leukocytosis, anemia, and hypoproteinemia. Abdominal radiography revealed severely decreased serosal details. A massive gas silhouette observed in the peritoneal and retroperitoneal cavities, was diagnosed as abdominal free gas. Abdominal ultrasound showed an accumulation of moderately anechoic fluid mixed with gas and cyst-like capsules around the left kidney. Left partial ureteral obstruction and dilation were also observed. Computed tomography (CT) was performed without sedatives or anesthetic drugs. The findings showed severe inflammatory changes in the peritoneum and a loss of the normal inner structure in the left kidney. A pyelogram of the left kidney was not observed after injection of the contrast material. Diffuse fat stranding and free gas observed in the mesentery of the entire abdominal cavity and around the left kidney were considered septic peritonitis. Urinalysis revealed proteinuria and hematuria. Numerous neutrophils with rod-type bacteria were observed in the ascites. Following diagnostic examinations, the patient was diagnosed with extensive left EPN, including inflammatory ascites and abdominal free gas. Therefore, emergency NU of the nonfunctional left kidney and ruptured ureter and thorough abdominal lavage were conducted. Diffuse inflammation and a nephrolith were observed in the section of the harvested kidney. The nephrolith was composed of 100% calcium oxalate monohydrate. The realtime polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) test for feline infectious peritonitis (FIP) was negative. Escherichia coli was detected in the ascites, and antibiotic therapy was administered following the antibiotic sensitivity test. The histological findings from the left kidney and ureter included marked chronic inflammation and fibrosis. The patient was discharged 4 days after surgery. During the 8-month follow-up period, the patient's condition improved. Discussion: This was a unique case of EPN in a nondiabetic cat and the first reported case of EPN with a ruptured ureter, including abdominal free gas, inflammatory ascites, and peritonitis. This patient had a bacterial urinary tract infection with E. coli, which is the most frequently isolated pathogen in humans. This gas-forming bacteria produced a massive amount of gas and inflammation that were considered to have ruptured the urinary tract, so that the gas was released into the abdomen. This case corresponded to class 3B, with two risk factors according to the human EPN classification system. Direct NU and abdominal lavage were performed as emergency surgeries. The patient stabilized gradually and showed a good prognosis. Immediate surgical intervention is recommended in animal patients showing the extensive EPN stage.

Multilobular tumor of bone in bitches: clinical, histopathological, immunohistochemical and overall survival aspects

Background: Multilobular tumor of bone (MTB) is an unusual neoplasm with variable biologic behavior which originates primarily in bone tissues. Radiographs computed tomography (CT), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are useful in diagnoses and surgical planning. Tumor removal with wide surgical margins is the treatment of choice. Immunohistochemistry has been shown as an important tool in veterinary oncology to define therapeutic and prognostic decisions. The goal of this study was to report 2 distinct cases of multilobular tumor of bone, their Cox-2 and Mib-1 immunohistochemical profile and its impact on overall survival. Case: Two bitches were presented at the Oncology Department of the Veterinary Hospital in the Veterinary School of Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (UFMG). Both had a history of a progressive, painless, circumscribed, and firm facial mass. The 1st patient was a 8-year-old intact bitch mixed breed, weighing 50 kg, that presented a fast growing right infraorbital 3-cm mass, causing eye displacement. The 2nd patient was a 7-year-old spayed bitch Labrador retriever, weighing 28 kg, that presented a left temporal 8-cm mass. Neurologic examination of both bitches was normal. Skin over the nodules was strained, but with no ulceration. Radiographic exams of the head revealed lytic and proliferative bone reaction, with loss of cortical definition in both cases. These alterations were seen on the left zygomatic arch of the retrobulbar region, involving part of the mandible and of the nasal sinus lateral frontal bone in 1st patient, and on the right temporal process of the zygomatic bone in 2nd patient. The last one, also showed a granular solid mass with little contact with skull bones. Complete blood count, biochemistry profile, electrocardiogram, and 3-view thoracic radiographs were performed. Results were within normal ranges for the species and no signs of metastasis was seen on the radiographs. Location, size, and density of the mass, adjacent tissue compression, absence of cranial invasion, and lymph node size were rigorously evaluated with CT, allowing an individualized surgical planning to achieve complete mass removal and maintenance of the function of adjacent structures. Both animals were submitted to surgery. Both tumors were fixed on 10% neutral buffered formalin and sent to the Animal Pathology Department of UFMG for histopathological examination and margin assessment. Both tumors were diagnosed as grade I MTB. Tumor immunohistochemistry was performed to identify prognostic factors that could be used to better define therapeutic treatments and to try to clarify the discrepancy in disease progression between both tumors. The 1st patient expressed 20% of Mib-1 and was considered score 2 of Cox-2. The 2nd one expressed 5% of Mib-1 and was considered score 1 of Cox-2. Considering the diagnoses and histological characteristics of the tumors, it was decided for clinical follow-up of patients without additional therapeutic complementation. Even considering incomplete surgical margins in 2nd patient, adjuvant chemotherapy was not performed, due to low mitotic index and low histological grade. The 1st patient had an overall survival of 240 days, and death was due to recurrence and disease progression; and the 2nd did not show recurrence nor metastasis after 1200 days. Discussion: Proper and individualized surgical planning and histopathological evaluation are extremely important to guide treatment decisions. However, immunohistochemistry can be important in MTB cases, to help define which patients should be submitted to surgery alone and which patients could be benefited from adjuvant chemotherapy.

Canine intraventricular pneumocephalus: a case report / Pneumoencéfalo intraventricular em cão: relato de caso

Pneumocephalus is a well described disease; it is commonly diagnosed in humans, but the condition is rarely encountered in veterinary medicine. Computed tomography (CT) is the gold-standard diagnostic method for identifying this disease, and other methods (such as necropsy) are rarely described. In this report, we describe necropsy findings of a 10-month-old, mixed-breed dog with intraventricular pneumocephalus. The dog was referred to Laboratory of Animal Pathology of the Federal University of Uberlândia, Brazil, for necropsy after being diagnosed with pneumocephalus upon CT. In the examination, the brain had dilation of both lateral ventricles with empty spaces. Histopathology showed congestion and mineralization only near the lateral ventricles, leading to the diagnosis of pneumocephalus based on the macroscopic findings. The animal also showed sinusitis characterized by nasal discharge and neutrophilic infiltration of nasal sinuses. However, bacterial culture was not conclusive because of contamination of the sample. This is therefore an important report that shows necropsy findings of intraventricular pneumocephalus, which is a rare condition in dogs. By documenting the necropsy findings, we hope to help veterinary pathologists, including those with limited access to diagnostic imaging.

Pneumoencéfalo é uma condição bem descrita e comumente diagnosticada em humanos, mas raramente encontrada na medicina veterinária. A tomografia computadorizada (TC) é o método diagnóstico padrão-ouro para identificar tal alteração, e outros métodos (como a necropsia) raramente são descritos. Neste relato, são apresentados os achados de necropsia de um cão sem raça definida de 10 meses de idade com pneumoencéfalo intraventricular. O cão foi encaminhado ao Laboratório de Patologia Animal da Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Brasil, para necropsia após ser diagnosticado com pneumoencéfalo na TC. No exame, o cérebro apresentava dilatação de ambos os ventrículos laterais com espaços vazios; à histopatologia, foram observadas congestão e mineralização próximas aos ventrículos laterais. Com isso foi estabelecido o diagnóstico de pneumoencéfalo, com base nos achados macroscópicos. O animal também apresentou sinusite caracterizada por secreção nasal e infiltração neutrofílica dos seios nasais. No entanto, a cultura bacteriana não foi conclusiva devido à contaminação da amostra. Este é, portanto, um importante relato que mostra achados de necropsia de pneumoencéfalo intraventricular, que é uma condição rara em cães. Ao documentar os achados da necropsia, esperamos ajudar os patologistas veterinários, incluindo aqueles com acesso limitado a técnicas de diagnóstico por imagem.

Paniculite nodular com esteatonecrose subcutânea em Golden Retrivier: relato de caso / Nodular panniculitis with subcutaneous steatonecrosis in a Golden Retrivier: case report

Um paciente canino, da raça Golden Retriever, foi atendido em clínica veterinária particular, com uma extensa formação nodular cutânea em região ventro-lateral direita, com evolução de um ano. A lesão apresentava consistência mole e presença de nodulações sólidas e retilíneas no seu interior, entremeadas ao meio líquido. Foi realizada colheita do material, por meio de punção por aspiração com agulha fina e o resultado citopatológico foi inconclusivo para neoplasia. Não foram observadas alterações dignas de nota na ultrassonografia abdominal. Após a realização de tomografia computadorizada da formação cutânea, as imagens eram compatíveis com abscesso ou hematoma entre áreas de mineralização. O animal foi submetido ao procedimento cirúrgico para biópsia excisional, tendo como diagnóstico morfológico paniculite nodular estéril com esteatonecrose, processo de morte celular dos adipócitos. O procedimento cirúrgico foi considerado curativo, uma vez que após um ano não houve recidiva no local ou formação de outras nodulações cutâneas. Essa patologia é incomum em cães, principalmente da raça Golden Retrevier e em região abdominal do tecido subcutâneo. Embora sejam correlacionadas algumas hipóteses, a causa dessa patologia permanece idiopática.(AU)

Pneumocephalus and suppurative meningoencephalitis in a dog after craniofacial trauma

Background: Pneumocephalus is characterized by the presence of gas in the intracranial compartment, and it can be developed by trauma, craniofacial surgery or spontaneously. Clinical signs start within days or months after the injury and vary according to the site of involvement. Computed tomography is the ideal diagnostic tool, however skull radiography can also be used. Treatment varies according to the severity of the case, and it can be conservative or associated with surgical intervention in the most severe cases. The purpose of this report is to describe the case of a dog that developed pneumocephalus and suppurative meningoencephalitis after head trauma caused by a bite from another dog. Case: A 2-month-old bitch, mixed breed, with 3.2 kg, was referred to the Veterinary Hospital because it had been bitten on the head by another dog. Shortly after the incident, the animal showed no clinical signs. However, 2 days later, the bitch became depressed and in persistent lateral decubitus. A lesion with a crust of approximately 0.5 cm was found close to the occipital region, with bone irregularity on palpation. The animal was in lateral decubitus with muscular hypotonia, bilateral mydriasis unresponsive to light and stupor. Radiographic images showed parietal fracture and pneumocephalus. Based on the findings of physical and laboratorial exams, diagnosis of suppurative meningoencephalitis and pneumocephalus secondary to craniofacial trauma was established. Empirical broad-spectrum antimicrobial therapy was started in addition to mannitol, corticoids, and analgesics. The animal was referred for surgical debridement by trepanation, when samples were collected to bacterial culture, which was negative. Despites the care, the animal died 14 h after the surgical procedure. Histopathological examination of the frontal cortex was performed, being the histological changes compatible with suppurative meningoencephalitis. Discussion: Dog bites on the head and neck are particularly severe, and can create intracranial bleeding, disfigurement of the face, damage to peripheral structures or cranial fractures. In this report, through radiographic images, it was found that the patient had an intracerebral aerocele, since there was presence of gas in the intracranial compartment. This alteration should always be considered in animals with neurological alterations and a history of craniofacial trauma. The main neurological changes observed in the reported case were unresponsive to mydriasis and altered mental status 2 days after the trauma, and this delay in the onset of clinical signs is frequently reported in cases of pneumocephalus. Neutrophilia and leukocytosis observed can be justified by the suppurative meningoencephalitis, confirmed by the histopathological exam. Antimicrobial therapy should be started as soon as possible, and the choice must be based on their capacity to cross the blood-brain barrier and the broad spectrum. The administration of antibiotics before collecting the material for bacterial culture may explain the negative result of this test, so that it is not possible to determine whether the intracranial gas observed on the radiograph may have developed from the trauma or because of gas-producing bacteria. Head trauma can induce suppurative meningoencephalitis and pneumocephalus even in the absence of perforating wounds at the time of the consultation. The neurological signs can start days after the trauma. Besides the clinical and surgical treatments, the prognosis of any bacterial infection of the central nervous system is poor.

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.

Retrospective study on the incidence of cats and dogs' spinal injuries by computed tomographic scan. Part I: Cervical and Cervicothoracic / Estudo retrospectivo sobre incidência de injúrias em coluna vertebral de cães e gatos por meio de exame tomográfico. Parte I: Cervical e Cervicotorácica

Injuries involving the spine are frequent in dogs and knowledge of them is important to define the patient's treatment and prognosis. The objective of this retrospective study was to describe the epidemiological profile of animals and lesions in the cervical (C1-5) and cervicothoracic (C6-T2) spine diagnosed through tomographic examination. Compilation of computed tomography (CT) reports for the referred regions was carried out in a diagnostic center between 01/04/2017 and 30/04/2020, with or without contrast, from the clinical routine, in order to relate the most common lesions and their locations, as well as the species, breeds and ages most affected. A total of 1164 CT scans were performed in the period, 57.56% (n=670/1164) for the spine, with 89.7% (n=601/670) reports accessed, where both regions referred to here totaled 26.95% of the studies (n=162/601). Male mixed-breed dogs (MBD) showed the most lesions. For the cervical spine, the most identified lesion was disk extrusion and the site was C3-C4, while the mean age for lesions was 8.09±3.55 years. As for cervicothoracic, disk mineralization was more frequent and the mean age for lesions was 6.96±2.93 years. It was concluded that the spine is the main target of CT scans, that lesions related to the intervertebral disk were the main ones identified, and older MBD animals are the main ones affected.

As lesões envolvendo coluna vertebral são frequentes em animais de companhia, podendo ocorrer à nível vertebral, medula espinal, disco intervertebral, meninges ou raízes nervosas, e o conhecimento das mesmas é importante para definir o tratamento e prognóstico do animal. O objetivo desse estudo retrospectivo foi descrever o perfil epidemiológico dos animais e das lesões em coluna vertebral cervical (C1-5) e cervicotorácica (C6-T2) diagnosticadas por meio de exame tomográfico. Realizou-se a compilação de laudos de tomografias computadorizadas para as referidas regiões realizadas em centro diagnóstico comercial, entre 01/04/2017 a 30/04/2020, contrastadas e não-contrastadas, provenientes da rotina clínica, a fim de relacionar as lesões, raças e locais mais comuns. Foram realizados 1164 exames tomográficos no período avaliado, sendo 57,56% (n=670/1164) para a coluna, com 89,7% dos laudos acessados (n=601/670), sendo que as regiões cervical e cervicotorácica somaram 26,95% dos estudos (n=162/601). Em ambas regiões, os cães sem raça definida (SRD) machos foram os que mais demonstraram lesões. Para a coluna cervical, a lesão mais identificada foi extrusão de disco e o local mais afetado foi C3-C4, enquanto a média de idade para lesões foi 8,09±3,55 anos. Já para cervicotorácica, a mineralização de disco foi mais frequente e média de idade para ocorrência de lesões foi de 6,96±2,93 anos. Concluiu-se que a coluna vertebral foi o principal alvo de tomografias, as lesões relacionadas ao disco intervertebral foram as mais identificadas, sendo animais SRD com idade avançada os mais acometidos.

Retrospective study on the incidence of cats and dogs' spinal injuries by computed tomographic scan. Part II: Thoracolumbar and lumbosacral / Estudo retrospectivo sobre incidência de injúrias em coluna vertebral de cães e gatos por meio de exame tomográfico. Parte II: Toracolombar e Lombossacral

For vertebromedullary injuries, epidemiological knowledge is essential to guide the choice of the most effective diagnostic method. The objective of this retrospective study was to describe the epidemiological profile of animals and thoracolumbar and lumbosacral spine lesions diagnosed by computed tomography scan. A compilation of CT scan reports for the aforementioned regions performed in a comercial diagnostic center from 04/01/2017 to 04/30/2020, contrasted and non-contrasted, from routine, was performed in order to list the most common lesions and their locations, as well as the species, breeds and ages most affected. There were 1164 CT scans performed in the period evaluated, all of them in dogs, 57,56% (n=670) for the spine, with 89,7% reports accessed (n=601), where the regions mentioned here added up to 73,05% studies (n=439). In both regions, male French Bulldog dogs had the most injuries. For the thoracolumbar region, disk mineralization, followed by extrusion, were the most frequent injuries, while the site was T12-13 and the mean age 6,5±3,63 years old. In the lumbosacral, disk protrusion was most frequent, the most affected site was L7-S1 and age 6,65±3,79 years. It was concluded that the spine is the main target of CT scans, and that lesions related to the intervertebral disk were the main ones identified, with chondrodystrophic animals being more predisposed to injury.

Para lesões vertebromedulares é indispensável o conhecimento epidemiológico para direcionar a escolha do método diagnóstico mais eficaz. O objetivo desse estudo retrospectivo foi descrever o perfil epidemiológico dos animais e das lesões em coluna vertebral toracolombar e lombossacral diagnosticadas através de exame tomográfico. Realizou-se a compilação de laudos de tomografias computadorizadas para as referidas regiões realizadas em centro diagnóstico comercial, entre 01/04/2017 a 30/04/2020, contrastadas e não-contrastadas, provenientes da rotina, a fim de relacionar as lesões e seus locais de ocorrência, bem como a espécie, raças e idades mais comuns. Foram realizados 1164 exames tomográficos no período avaliado, sendo 57,56% (n=670) para a coluna, com 89,7% laudos acessados (n=601), nos quais as regiões toracolombar e lombossacral somaram 73,05% dos estudos (n=439). Em ambas as regiões, os cães Bulldog Francês machos foram os que mais apresentaram lesões. Para a região toracolombar, a mineralização de disco, seguida pela extrusão, foram as lesões mais frequentes, enquanto o local foi T12-13 e a média de idade 6,5±3,63 anos. Na lombossacral, a protusão de disco foi mais frequente, o local mais afetado foi L7-S1 e idade de 6,65±3,79 anos. Concluiu-se que a coluna vertebral é o principal alvo de tomografias, e que as lesões relacionadas ao disco intervertebral foram as principais identificadas, sendo os animais condrodistróficos mais predispostos a lesões.

Tumor Venéreo Transmissível (TVT) nasal com metástase óssea em um cão / Nasal transmissible venereal tumor (TVT) with bone metastasis in a dog

Background: Transmissible venereal tumor (TVT) is a highly contagious round cell neoplasm that affects dogs, and itis usually transmitted through coitus. The tumor is mainly located in the genital area; however, the neoplasm can also beextragenital, affecting the nose, mouth, and eyes, as well as the skin and superficial lymph nodes. Cytological examinationis the most commonly used method for definitive diagnosis due to its low cost and fast execution. Chemotherapy, radiotherapy, surgical resection, and other procedures such as cryosurgery are the possible treatment options. The objective ofthis report was to describe a case of extragenital TVT with nasal primary site and metastasis in the bone tissue in a dogtreated at a private veterinary hospital in the city of Belém, Pará, Brazil.Case: A 6-year-old male domiciliary Labrador Retriever dog, weighing 24.2 kg, received oncologic treatment in a privateveterinary hospital in the city of Belém, Pará, Brazil. The animal had a history of neoplastic disease, and he had undergoneTVT resection associated with chemotherapy treatment more than 3 years ago. The clinical examination revealed a volumeincrease in the periorbital region, left lateral ocular displacement, left nostril excessive epistaxis, recurrent sneezing, cough,and pain signs, and tumor metastasis was suspected. Complementary exams of oncological cytology, computed tomography(CT), hemogram, and serum biochemistry were requested for diagnosis and staging of the condition, and supportive therapywas prescribed. The cytological report showed a dense population of neoplastic round cells with characteristics of TVT. CTindicated the presence of a heterogeneous hypodense mass with irregular contours and partially defined limits, with slightuptake of the intravenously injected contrast medium that obliterated the nasal cavity, maxillary recess, nasopharyngealmeatus, frontal sinus, and sphenoid sinus on the left side...

Tumor Venéreo Transmissível (TVT) nasal com metástase óssea em um cão / Nasal transmissible venereal tumor (TVT) with bone metastasis in a dog

Background: Transmissible venereal tumor (TVT) is a highly contagious round cell neoplasm that affects dogs, and itis usually transmitted through coitus. The tumor is mainly located in the genital area; however, the neoplasm can also beextragenital, affecting the nose, mouth, and eyes, as well as the skin and superficial lymph nodes. Cytological examinationis the most commonly used method for definitive diagnosis due to its low cost and fast execution. Chemotherapy, radiotherapy, surgical resection, and other procedures such as cryosurgery are the possible treatment options. The objective ofthis report was to describe a case of extragenital TVT with nasal primary site and metastasis in the bone tissue in a dogtreated at a private veterinary hospital in the city of Belém, Pará, Brazil.Case: A 6-year-old male domiciliary Labrador Retriever dog, weighing 24.2 kg, received oncologic treatment in a privateveterinary hospital in the city of Belém, Pará, Brazil. The animal had a history of neoplastic disease, and he had undergoneTVT resection associated with chemotherapy treatment more than 3 years ago. The clinical examination revealed a volumeincrease in the periorbital region, left lateral ocular displacement, left nostril excessive epistaxis, recurrent sneezing, cough,and pain signs, and tumor metastasis was suspected. Complementary exams of oncological cytology, computed tomography(CT), hemogram, and serum biochemistry were requested for diagnosis and staging of the condition, and supportive therapywas prescribed. The cytological report showed a dense population of neoplastic round cells with characteristics of TVT. CTindicated the presence of a heterogeneous hypodense mass with irregular contours and partially defined limits, with slightuptake of the intravenously injected contrast medium that obliterated the nasal cavity, maxillary recess, nasopharyngealmeatus, frontal sinus, and sphenoid sinus on the left side...(AU)

Artéria subclávia direita aberrante em cão - aspectos clínicos e de imagem / Aberrant right subclavian artery in a dog - clinical and imaging aspects

Background: Aberrant right subclavian artery is only rarely observed in veterinary medicine. Some animals may present postprandial regurgitation and progressive weight loss, which is considered an incidental finding unrelated to clinical alterations. Advanced imaging techniques such as thoracic CT scan, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and contrast angiography are used for the accurate detection of lesions, anatomical changes and specific information about vascular rings. This paper describes the clinical changes, imaging exams and therapeutic approach in a female dog with megaesophagus induced by an aberrant right subclavian artery. Case: A 2-month-old female bull terrier, weighing 1.6 kg, with a history of regurgitation immediately or a few minutes after a meal, diarrhea, polyphagia, progressive emaciation and apathy for 45 days, was treated at a University Veterinary Hospital. The dog's physical examination revealed 7% dehydration and body condition score 1 (scale 1 to 5), but no cardiac or pulmonary alterations upon auscultation. The hematological analysis and renal and hepatic serum enzymes were within the normal range for the species. In view of the presumptive clinical diagnosis of vascular anomaly, suggested by the contrast X-ray examination, a chest tomography was performed, which revealed altered aortic arch shape and contours, and a posterior aneurysm in the area of abnormal connection of the right subclavian artery. The patient was released with a prescription for conservative dietary management for megaesophagus. Within two weeks, the patient returned with a report of a good response to the prescribed therapy, absence of vomiting and diarrhea, and an increase in body weight. Surgical correction was recommended, but has not been performed so far, but conservative treatment for megaesophagus was continued. No further episodes of regurgitation were identified during the nine-month follow-up period. Discussion: In the case reported here, the right subclavian artery is considered anatomically atypical because it arises directly from the aortic arch. This vascular anomaly passes on to the right pectoral limb, dorsal to the esophagus, contracting it in its dorsal aspect. It tends to affect purebred dogs, occurring more frequently in Irish setters, German shepherds and Labrador retrievers, although it has been described in other breeds such as the bull terrier documented here and mixed breed dogs. Vascular ring anomalies may not cause clinical changes in animals and represent only incidental findings, or they may lead to gastrointestinal changes resulting from esophageal stricture, contributing to megaesophagus and clinical signs of esophageal obstruction, especially in recently weaned puppies. Such alterations were observed in this case, with the dog presenting regurgitation, immediately or a few minutes after a meal, megaesophagus, diarrhea and progressive weight loss. A CT scan was performed to confirm the type and location of the vascular anomaly and diagnostic accuracy, as recommended in the literature. Dietary therapy is one of the approaches adopted for patients presenting with regurgitation resulting from megaesophagus secondary to vascular anomalies. The dog in this report responded well to the medical therapy; nevertheless, the treatment of choice to correct the esophageal obstruction caused by this anomaly is surgical sectioning of the aberrant vessel by right intercostal thoracotomy, given that the degree of esophageal dilation and dysfunction tends to increase over time. However, at this time, the animal's owner decided to suspend the recommended surgical procedure.

Evaluation of the degradation of two bioabsorbable interference screws: an in-vivo study in sheep

Purpose: To evaluate in-vivo degradation of two bioabsorbable interference screws. Methods: Twenty-two crossbred Santa Inês ewes were used. A poly-DL-lactide (PDLLA) screw (70%/30%) was inserted in the right pelvic limb, and a PDLLA screw (70%) + ß-tri-calcium phosphate (ß-TCP) (30%) in the left pelvic limb. Animals were euthanized at one, four, seven and a half and 18 months after surgery. Plain radiography, computed tomography (CT), microCT, and histological analysis were accomplished. Results: PDLLA screw was hypodense at all evaluation moments, but with progressive density increase along the central axis, whereas PDLLA/ß-TCP was initially hyperdense and progressively lost this characteristic. No adverse reactions were observed on histological evaluation. Conclusions: The inclusion of ß-TCP favors screw degradation since the PDLLA/ß-TCP screws evidenced a more intense degradation process than the PDLLA screws at the last evaluation. PDLLA screws showed higher bone production, evident around the screw thread, inside the lateral perforations, and in the central canal, whereas the PDLLA/ß-TCP screws presented less bone tissue at the implantation site.

Utilização da manufatura aditiva (impressão em 3d) no tratamento de osteossarcoma vertebral em cão submetido a vertebrectomia lombar: relato de caso

El osteosarcoma es una de las neoplasias óseas más comúnmente reportadas en medicina veterinaria, principalmente en perros de raza grande y gigante, siendo que la forma vertebral tiene importante escenario clínico presentando el 5% del total de reportes. Tiene un pronóstico desfavorable y un tiempo de supervivencia corto. La presentación clínica es variable y pueden observarse desde signos de dolor intenso hasta déficits neurológicos como resultado de la afectación medular progresiva. El diagnóstico puede realizarse mediante imágenes con radiografía o tomografía computarizada, y mediante análisis de laboratorio de citopatología o histopatología, siendo este último preferible para la clasificación del tumor. La resección parcial del tumor es una forma de tratamiento paliativo, indicada en algunos casos para aliviar temporalmente los signos clínicos relacionados con el dolor y los déficits neurológicos. Sin embargo, cuando hay posibilidad terapéutica, la escisión completa proporciona un mejor pronóstico y tiempo de supervivencia, principalmente cuando se asocia con quimioterapia o radioterapia. Mediante el procedimiento de la vertebrectomía, es necesaria la estabilización quirúrgica, que puede realizarse respetando los principios para la estabilización vertebral por traumatismo, siendo necesaria la colocación de un espaciador vertebral para evitar el colapso medular. Se han propu

Osteosarcoma is one of the most commonly reported bone neoplasms in veterinary medicine, especially in large and giant breed dogs, and the vertebral form has an important clinical scenario presenting 5% of the total reports. This has an unfavorable prognosis and a short survival time.  The clinical presentation is variable and signs of severe pain to neurological deficits can be observed as a result of progressive spinal cord involvement. The diagnosis can be made by imaging with radiography or computed tomography, and by laboratory analysis of cytopathology or histopathology, the latter being preferable for tumor classification. Partial tumor resection is a palliative form of treatment, indicated in some cases to temporarily relieve clinical signs related to pain and neurological deficits. However, when there is therapeutic possibility, complete excision provides better prognosis and survival time, especially when associated with chemotherapy or radiotherapy. Through the vertebrectomy procedure, surgical stabilization is necessary and can be performed following the principles for vertebral stabilization due to trauma, with the placement of a vertebral spacer being necessary to prevent spinal collapse. Several materials have been proposed for the manufacture of the spinal spacer. Additive manufacturing, also known as 3D printing, has transformed the concept of rapid pr

O osteossarcoma é uma das neoplasias ósseas mais comumente relatadas na medicina veterinária, principalmente em cães de raça grande e gigante, sendo que a forma vertebral possui importante cenário clínico apresentando 5% do total de relatos. Este possui um prognóstico desfavorável e tempo de sobrevida pequeno. A apresentação clínica é variável e podem ser observados sinais de dor intensa a déficits neurológicos em decorrência do envolvimento medular progressivo. O diagnóstico pode ser realizado por imagens através de radiografia ou tomografia computadorizada, e por análises laboratoriais de citopatologia ou histopatologia, sendo o último preferível para classificação de tumores. A ressecção tumoral parcial é uma forma paliativa de tratamento, indicada em alguns casos para aliviar temporariamente os sinais clínicos relacionados a dor e déficits neurológicos. Contudo, quando há possibilidade terapêutica, a excisão completa fornece melhor prognóstico e tempo de sobrevida, principalmente quando associada a quimioterapia ou radioterapia. Mediante procedimento de vertebrectomia, a estabilização cirúrgica é necessária, podendo ser realizada respeitando os princípios para estabilização vertebral por trauma, sendo necessário a colocação de um espaçador vertebral para evitar o colabamento medular. Diversos materiais foram propostos para a confecção do espaçador vertebral. A manufatura ad