Hypertrophic phenotypic cardiomyopathy in an ocelot (Leopardus pardalis)

Background: Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy phenotype (HCM) is the most common cardiac disease in domestic cats but is rarely described in wild species. This phenotype is characterized by concentric hypertrophy of the left ventricle and may be of familial inheritance or secondary to other diseases such as hyperthyroidism, chronic kidney disease, systemic arterial hypertension, and hyperaldosteronism. HCM can cause diastolic and systolic dysfunction and may cause congestive heart failure in affected animals. The present work aims to describe the first report of cardiomyopathy of the hypertrophic phenotype in a specimen of Leopardus pardalis, kept under human care. Case: A 11-year-old female ocelot (Leopardus pardalis) kept under human care, during a preventive care visit, had hypertrophic cardiomyopathy phenotype detected by cardiological evaluation with echocardiogram and a murmur grade III/ VI could be detected on cardiac auscultation. This preventive care occurred under chemical restraint with ketamine [6 mg/kg, i.m] associates with midazolam [0.5 mg/kg, i.m] and other evaluations have been done like complete blood count (CBC), biochemistry (alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase, total proteins, albumin, albumin:globulin ratio, creatinine, urea, sodium, potassium, calcium, phosphorus, and globulin) and tyroid hormones [free tyroxine (T4) and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH)]. Medical management based on clopidogrel, and atenolol was administered for 3 months until the patient showed manifestations of congestive heart failure (CHF) 80 days later the initial evaluation. In this moment the patient presented with dyspnea, so a cardiological and laboratory evaluation was requested. On pulmonary auscultation crackling was identified, suggesting pulmonary edema and, on echocardiographic examination, some parameters had worsened. The CBC and biochemistry were all within reference ranges. Then, the beta-blocker was discontinued and replaced by pimobendan combined with furosemide as treatment of CHF, and the condition stabilized. After one year, the patient was re-evaluated and showed a slight improvement in the condition but still remained stable. Also, feline proBNP levels was tested (SNAP Feline proBNP® IDEXX) in this moment and it was increased. Discussion: The findings on echocardiography associated with the subjective evaluation associated with progressive worsening and clinical manifestation of CHF, as well as the response to treatment, even though there are no reference values for the species, reinforce the diagnosis. There is no evidence to suggest diseases that may contribute to secondary left ventricular hypertrophy. It is believed that pimobendan plays a key role in maintaining hemodynamic balance, since this has already been observed in other mammalian species. The use of beta blockers is commonly employed in domestic cats with HCM, and they have been prescribed in an attempt to promote greater ventricular relaxation, decrease left ventricular outflow obstruction, thus improving ventricular filling for maintenance of cardiac output. In view of the atrial enlargement and possible risk of thrombus formation, clopidogrel was prescribed, extrapolating what is known from domestic cats. It is reasonable to conclude that in this case, the cardiomyopathy behaved similarly to what is observed in domestic cats, both in its clinical evolution and in the means of diagnosis, and in its response to the therapy instituted.

Interatrial septal aneurysm associated with patent foramen ovale in a dog - case report / Aneurisma de septo interatrial associado a forame oval patente em cão - relato de caso

Atrial septal aneurysm (ASA) is a rare congenital deformity of variable clinical relevance, often reported in association with patent foramen ovale (PFO). Transthoracic Doppler echocardiography (TTE) is the first choice for diagnosis, but complementary techniques, such as microbubble contrast, should be used. Despite its importance, in Veterinary Medicine, there is little information related to the subject, and the present study is the second report of this condition in dogs. The objective was to report a case of ASA type IV LR associated with PFO in a Shar Pei bitch, diagnosed by a combined approach of transthoracic echocardiography backed by agitated saline solution (microbubbles). During clinical care, the owners reported episodes of seizures as their main complaint. Echocardiographic examination revealed a type 4 LR atrial septal aneurysm and left ventricular systolic dysfunction. The use of microbubble contrast showed right-to-left shunt, confirming PFO. The recommended treatment was medication. It was concluded that the rarity of ASA in dogs may be due to incomplete diagnoses and the transthoracic echocardiographic examination allows its analysis and classification. Furthermore, ASA can be found in animals with or without evidence of heart disease and it should be investigated in patients with neurological alterations.

O aneurisma do septo atrial (ASA) é uma rara deformidade congênita, de relevância clínica variável, frequentemente relatado em associação a forame oval patente (PFO). O ecodopplercardiograma transtorácico (TTE) é a primeira escolha para o diagnóstico, mas técnicas complementares, como o contraste por microbolhas, devem ser utilizadas. Apesar da importância, em medicina veterinária existe uma carência de informações relacionadas ao tema, sendo esse o segundo relato dessa condição em cão. Objetivou-se relatar um caso de ASA tipo IV LR, associado a PFO, em uma cadela Shar Pei, diagnosticado por uma abordagem combinada por ecodopplercardiograma transtorácico e costrastado com solução salina agitada (microbolhas). Ao atendimento clínico, os proprietários relataram, como queixa principal, episódios de crises convulsivas. O exame ecocardiográfico revelou aneurisma de septo atrial tipo 4 LR e disfunção sistólica em ventriculo esquerdo. A utilização de contraste por microbolhas constatou shunt direita-esquerda, confirmando PFO. O tratamento recomendado foi medicamentoso. Concluiu-se que a raridade do ASA em cães pode ser devido a diagnósticos incompletos, e o exame ecocardiográfico transtorácico permite sua análise e classificação. Ainda, ASA pode ser encontrado em animais com ou sem evidências de cardiopatia e sua investigação deve ser feita em pacientes com alterações neurológicas.

Uso da ultrassonografia Doppler colorido na reprodução de pequenos ruminantes / Use of color Doppler ultrasonography in the reproduction of small ruminants

A ultrassonografia (US) Doppler colorido fornece uma ferramenta não invasiva valiosa para detectar e monitorar mudanças dinâmicas na rede vascular e fluxo sanguíneo em vários órgãos e tecidos reprodutivos. Em apoio as biotécnicas da reprodução animal assistida, a US Doppler colorido tem mostrada alta eficiência no monitoramento funcional das estruturas ovarianas. A previsão de respostas ovarianas e produções embrionária em ovinos pela identificação de sinais Doppler na parede folicular já se mostrou eficiente. A aplicação da US Doppler colorido para a identificação da funcionalidade do tecido luteal é ainda maior, desde acompanhamentos fisiológicos e diagnósticos de disfunções luteais até ampla aplicação em conjunto as diferentes biotécnicas reprodutivas. Destaca-se em ovelhas e cabras, a aplicação comercial da US Doppler colorido para o diagnóstico de gestação precoce, de disfunções luteais, de determinação de respostas ovarianas em fêmeas doadoras e receptoras de embriões, para identificar efeitos luteotrófico de estratégias hormonais, e ainda para amparar as estratégias de ressincronização de estro.(AU)

Color Doppler ultrasonography (US) provides a valuable non-invasive tool for detecting and monitoring dynamic changes in the vascular network and blood flow in various reproductive organs and tissues. In support of assisted animal reproduction biotechniques, color Doppler US has shown high efficiency in the functional monitoring of ovarian structures. The prediction of ovarian responses and embryonic production in sheep by identifying Doppler signals in the follicular wall has already proved to be efficient. The application of color Doppler US for identifying the functionality of the luteal tissue is even greater, from physiological monitoring and diagnosis of luteal dysfunctions to wide application together with different reproductive biotechniques. It stands out in sheep and goats, the commercial application of color Doppler US for the diagnosis of early pregnancy, luteal dysfunctions, determination of ovarian responses in embryo donor and recipient females, to identify luteotrophic effects of hormonal strategies, and even to support estrus resynchronization strategies.(AU)

Rinoscopia como auxiliar no diagnóstico de criptococose felina: Relato de caso / Rhinoscopy as aid in the diagnosis of feline cryptococosis: case report

Criptococose é uma micose sistêmica não contagiosa que acomete, principalmente, felinos. O agente etiológico é uma levedura do gênero Cryptococcus sp., e a sua transmissão ocorre por via aerógena, com a inalação dos esporos que se alojam, principalmente, na cavidade nasal e pulmão. A forma nasal é a mais comum em felinos e as suas manifestações clínicas incluem edema nasofacial, eritema e secreção nasal. O diagnóstico pode ser realizado por meio de cultivo micológico, citologia, histologia e reação em cadeia polimerase. Neste artigo, é apresentado o relato de caso de um felino diagnosticado com criptococose, no qual o diagnóstico de triagem foi realizado por meio de rinoscopia. No atendimento inicial, o animal apresentava hiporexia, reflexo de deglutição constante, engasgos, odor acentuado em região nasal e crepitações pulmonares com evolução de três meses. O diagnóstico foi realizado com o emprego de rinoscopia, que identificou massa interna na região da mucosa nasofaríngea, com posterior biópsia e exame anatomopatológico. Após a confirmação diagnóstica, o paciente foi medicado com itraconazol 10 mg/kg SID, por 5 meses, e teve a resolução de todos os sinais clínicos apresentados. A criptococose deve ser considerada como diagnóstico, diferencial de alterações do sistema respiratório em felinos e a rinoscopia pode ser um recurso diagnóstico importante para auxiliar na conclusão e reconhecimento da enfermidade.(AU)

Cryptococcosis is a non-contagious systemic mycosis that primarily affects felines. Its etiological agent is a yeast of the genus Cryptococcus sp., and its transmission occurs through the air, by inhalation of spores that primarily lodge in the nasal cavity and lungs. The nasal form is the most common in felines and clinical manifestations include nasofacial edema, erythema and nasal discharge. Diagnosis can be made by means of mycological culture, cytology, histology and polymerase chain reaction. This article presents a case of a feline diagnosed with cryptococcosis, in which the screening diagnosis was performed by means of rhinoscopy. In the initial care, the animal presented hyporexia, constant swallowing reflex, choking, accentuated odor in the nasal region and pulmonary crackles with evolution of three months. The diagnosis was made using rhinoscopy, which identified an internal mass in the nasopharyngeal mucosa, and subsequent biopsy and anatomopathological examination. After diagnostic confirmation, the patient was medicated with itraconazole 10 mg/kg SID for 5 months and had resolution of all clinical signs presented. Cryptococcosis should be considered as a differential diagnosis of alterations in the respiratory system in cats and rhinoscopy can be an important diagnostic tool to assist in the conclusion and recognition of this disease.(AU)

Deslocamento dorsal de patela: relato de caso / Dorsal displacement of the patella: case report / Desplazamiento dorsal de la rótula: caso clínico

O deslocamento dorsal da patela, não é uma afecção incomum em potros e em animais que são estabulados e mantidos em repouso após uma temporada de exercícios. Existem vários fatores, que pode levar a esta situação, como membros posteriores retos, flacidez do músculo quadríceps femoral, dentre outras. Existem várias formas de tratamento para o deslocamento, como exercícios controlados, ferrageamento corretivo, provocar uma desmite do ligamento patelar medial, com soluções irritantes, ou com a técnica do splitting, e também pode ser realizada a desmotomia do ligamento patelar medial para correção do deslocamento. Diante disso, buscou-se realizar uma revisão bibliográfica que verse sobre a acurácia do exame clínico e os exames complementares tais com ultrassonografia e radiografias, pois o diagnóstico preciso é de suma importância, para que os objetivos clínicos sejam alcançados.

Dorsal displacement of the patella is not an uncommon condition in foals and in animals that are stabled and kept at rest after a season of exercise. There are several factors, which can lead to this situation, such as straight hind limbs, laxity of the quadriceps femoris muscle, among others. There are several forms of treatment for the dislocation, such as controlled exercises, corrective bracing, provoking a demitis of the medial patellar ligament, with irritant solutions, or with the splitting technique, and also a demotomy of the medial patellar ligament can be performed to correct the dislocation. Therefore, a literature review was carried out on the accuracy of the clinical examination and complementary tests such as ultrasound and radiography, as an accurate diagnosis is of utmost importance to achieve the clinical objectives.

El desplazamiento dorsal de la rótula no es una condición infrecuente en potros y en animales estabulados y mantenidos en reposo después de una temporada de ejercicio. Hay varios factores que pueden conducir a esta situación, como miembros posteriores rectos, laxitud del músculo cuádriceps femoral, entre otros. Existen varias formas de tratamiento para la luxación, como ejercicios controlados, ortesis correctoras, provocando una demitis del ligamento rotuliano medial, con soluciones irritantes, o con la técnica del splitting, y también se puede realizar una desmotomía del ligamento rotuliano medial para corregir la luxación. Por ello, se realizó una revisión bibliográfica sobre la exactitud del examen clínico y de las pruebas complementarias como la ecografía y la radiografía, ya que un diagnóstico preciso es de suma importancia para alcanzar los objetivos clínicos.

Hemangiosarcoma in the vastus lateralis musculature of a bitch - sonographic findings

Background: A 10-year-old spayed bitch with hip dysplasia was referred for periarticular ultrasound evaluation. A poorly marginated structure of mixed echogenicity, predominantly hypoechoic, with heterogeneous echotexture, was identified in the vastus lateralis muscle of the right pelvic limb with increased stiffness, assessed using acoustic radiation force impulse (ARFI) elastography, compared to that of the adjacent muscle tissues, and intense vascularization by pulsed Doppler and contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS). Guided biopsy was performed to confirm the diagnosis of hemangiosarcoma. The objective of this study was to describe B-mode ultrasound, CEUS, and ARFI findings of hemangiosarcoma in the vastus lateralis musculature of a bitch. Case: A 10-year-old spayed bitch Golden Retriever weighing 36 kg was evaluated for pelvic limb lameness. The patient presented with bilateral pain during hip extension. The primary diagnostic suspicion was degenerative joint disease and secondary hip dysplasia. The patient was referred for imaging evaluation of the hip joints (radiography and ultrasound) under anesthesia. Right lateral and ventrodorsal projections with the pelvic limbs extended were obtained to confirm the diagnosis. In the right pelvic limb, an amorphous hypoechoic structure with irregular contours and heterogeneous echotexture was observed in the vastus lateralis muscle. In ARFI elastography, it was possible to identify differences in tissue stiffness between healthy and compromised portions. Pulsed-wave Doppler evaluation demonstrated an arterial waveform pattern with a peak systolic velocity of 38.8 cm/s, end-diastolic velocity of 6.9 cm/s, pulsatility index of 1.76, and resistive index of 0.82. CEUS study identified a mean peak of 27.26 %, mean time to peak of 39.95 s, and mean transmission time of 49.96 s. The popliteal lymph node was hyperechoic and heterogeneous in B-mode. In ARFI elastography, the average stiffness was 2.52 m/s, and the CEUS obtained an average peak of 19.98%, average time to peak of 17.52 s, and mean transit time of 22.83 s. Doppler assessment revealed no clear vascularization in the lymph node. Thoracic radiography in 3 projections and abdominal ultrasonography were performed. Radiographic evidence of pulmonary nodules was not observed. On abdominal ultrasound evaluation, it was possible to identify changes in the spleen, which presented with splenomegaly, mixed echogenicity, and heterogeneous echotexture. The animal underwent ultrasound-guided muscle biopsy, which confirmed the presence of hemangiosarcoma in the muscle. The bitch was referred for splenectomy and lymphadenectomy of the right popliteal, which confirmed neoplastic involvement of the same neoplasm. Discussion: On B-mode ultrasound, the observed changes were similar to those in a report of hemangiosarcoma in the muscles of the chest wall in dogs, which contributed to the diagnosis. Although it was only one patient, ARFI elastography results suggest that muscle hemangiosarcoma tends to follow the same elastographic characteristics as malignant lesions in other tissues. Additionally, the popliteal lymph node had a stiffness suggestive of malignancy (mean 2.52 m/s) because it presented a similar result and greater elasticity of metastatic axillary lymph nodes in bitches (>2.5 m/s) and women (> 1.44 m/s) with breast tumor. With CEUS, it was possible to identify vascularization in the sentinel lymph node that was not visible by pulsed Doppler, and in muscle mass. The findings of this report provided relevant results on muscle hemangiosarcoma in a bitch and demonstrated that the information obtained with the association of imaging methods supported the malignancy criteria described in other studies.

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.

Thromboembolism in a bitch - diagnosis by infrared thermography

Background: Thermography is a noninvasive, non-contact, painless, and non-ionizing imaging technique that records cutaneous thermal patterns generated by infrared emission of the surface. The surface heat is closely related to dermal microcirculation. Thromboembolism is responsible for important changes in the thermal pattern of the body surface due to physical obstruction of blood flow, being the main complication in immune-mediated hemolytic anemia. The aim of this paper is to report a dog with thrombus in his left forelimb secondary to idiopathic hemolytic anemia, whose diagnostic screening was performed through infrared thermography. Case: A 9-year-old mixed breed bitch was referred to a veterinary hospital with a history of emesis, diarrhea and dark-colored urine for 2 days. The complete blood count showed hypochromic macrocytic anemia (hematocrit [HTC] 28%, reference: 37 to 55%) with the presence of nucleated erythrocyte (14/100 leukocytes, reference: 0 to 5/100 leukocytes), polychromasia and spherocytes. Leukocytosis (28,300 mm³, reference: 6,000 to 17,000 mm³) by neutrophilia with left deviation and toxic granulations was also present, in addition to hemoglobinuria at urine exam. Therefore, treatment for immune-mediated hemolytic anemia (IMHA) was instituted. After 2 days, the animal returned with acute functional impairment of the left forelimb. Physical examination revealed that the limb was cold, without pulse, proprioception, reflexes, and deep pain. New blood analyses revealed decreased hematocrit (HTC 17%, reference: 37 to 55%), and increased total leukocyte number (57,000 mm3, reference: 6,000 to 17,000 mm³). Infrared thermography revealed an important temperature difference between the limbs, with the affected limb temperature considerably lower (31.3ºC) when compared to the contralateral limb (35.0ºC). Thermography showed the site of the thrombus in the medial portion of the limb (cephalic vein), where the catheter had been placed for fluid therapy. Due to the severity of the condition, the bitch was submitted to amputation surgery, which occurred without complications. The patient had a good response to treatment, with decreased signs of hemolysis and hypercoagulability. The medications were slowly withdrawn, and the clinical discharge occurred after 4 weeks. Discussion: In humans, thermography has been widely used in the assessment of thrombotic diseases, contributing to diagnosis, localization, and prognosis. In veterinary medicine, however, the use of this tool in the diagnosis of thromboembolism is still rare. The difference of 3.7°C between the affected and contralateral limb was objectively verified using thermography. A minimum difference of 2.4°C between limbs has high sensitivity and specificity for diagnosing thromboembolism and occurs due to the reduction in local blood flow. In the present case this tool was essential for the anatomical location of the thrombus, which was in the middle third of the forearm, and allowed an adequate surgical planning. It is known that the main complication of IMHA is thromboembolism. Its predisposing factors include venous stasis, endothelial damage, and hypercoagulability, being exacerbated by cage confinement, decubitus and presence of a peripheral venous catheter. The reported case corroborates at least one of these factors since it had a peripheral venous catheter in the left forelimb, which later showed absence of pulse, spinal reflexes, pain and proprioception. The thermography showed to be an objective, rapid and non-invasive tool to diagnose and precisely locate the thrombus, which allowed for adequate treatment and surgical planning for the case. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report about use of thermography to diagnose thromboembolism secondary to immune-mediated hemolytic anemia in a dog.

Caudal vena cava thrombosis in cows

Background: Caudal vena cava thrombosis (CVCT) is a serious disease that affects cattle. Due to being commonly a fatal pathology, it causes economic losses for producers and national livestock. Thus, the present study describes the epidemiological, clinical, ultrasonographic imaging and pathological findings in 4 cattle with CVCT attended at the Veterinary Hospital (HV) of the Institute of Veterinary Medicine (IMV) of the Federal University of Pará (UFPA). Cases: The animals were crossbreds of the Gir x Holstein and Jersey x Holstein breeds, aged between 4 and 8 years old, raised in semi-extensive and intensive systems. The main clinical signs were pale mucous membranes, reluctance to move, markedly positive venous pulse, engorged jugular with positive stasis test, and serous to mucopurulent nasal exudation. The auscultation of the lung fields revealed tachypnea, silent areas, wheezing, and pleural friction, in addition to coughing, expiratory dyspnea, mouth breathing, and expiratory grunts. One animal had severe hemoptysis. The ultrasound examination performed on a bovine revealed a circular and dilated caudal vena cava in cross-section. Laboratory tests in 3 cattle revealed anemia, leukocytosis with neutrophil left shift, and increased liver enzymes. At necropsy, all cattle had thrombi in the hepatic segment of the caudal vena cava. In the lung, multiple abscesses and areas of parenchymal consolidation, crateriform areas, as well as thrombi in the arteries were observed. Pleural effusion and ascites were seen in all cattle. Clotted blood was seen in the trachea, bronchi, and on rumen contents of an animal. Histopathological alterations seen in the liver were centrilobular hepatocytes with frequent intensely eosinophilic cytoplasm, and pyknotic, karyorrhexic, or absent nuclei and cell borders barely distinguishable. In the lung were nodular and random formations, with a thick wall of mature connective tissue and a central area full of cellular debris, necrotic cells, and intact and degenerated neutrophils (abscesses). Discussion: The set of diagnostic tools that include epidemiology, clinical signs and clinical examinations, ultrasound, necropsy, and histopathology were efficient in the diagnosis of CVCT. The possible causes that led the animals to develop CVCT were diffuse septic pododermatitis in the medial nail of the right pelvic limb associated with traumatic reticuloabomasitis and liver abscesses. In 1 cow, it was not possible to establish the probable cause of CVCT, but for the other cattle in the present study, the probable causes are in agreement with studies that have shown that this disease can occur as a sequel to several septic conditions such as jugular phlebitis, mastitis, hoof rot, enteritis, pneumonia, traumatic reticulopericarditis, acidosis and rumen laminitis, as well as omphalophlebitis in calves. The tachypnea, serous to purulent nasal exudation, pulmonary wheezing, pleural friction, coughing, and expiratory dyspnea, usually with open mouth breathing and expiratory grunts evidenced in the animals of this study, occurred as a result of embolic abscess pneumonia. The presence of multiple lung abscesses, areas of parenchymal consolidation, crateriform foci, and thrombi in the pulmonary arteries and chronic suppurative pneumonia, found at necropsy of the animals in the present study, are related to the development of a thrombus in the caudal vena cava that detaches and embolizes and lodges in the pulmonary arteries. The histopathological findings in 1 cow are compatible with lesions found at necropsy and draw attention to embolic pneumonia and liver lesions, which, are related to thrombi in pulmonary arteries and abscesses formed from CVCT, as well as venous stasis exerted in the return circulation.

Radiological measures of patellofemoral alignment in healthy small-breed dogs: reference values and sex variability

Background: The evaluation of vertical kneecap position within the trochlear groove is essential for understanding the anatomical changes that may lead to canine patellar luxation. Unlike other important diagnostic imaging measurements (e.g. measures of pelvic limb alignment), no data on patellofemoral congruence parameters of canine stifles (congruence angle, linear axial patellar displacement, lateral patellofemoral angle, patellar tilt angle) are reported. The aim of this study was to present metric values of these parameters in healthy dogs from small breeds from both sexes in order to use them for identification of animals with increased risk for medial patellar luxation. Materials, Methods & Results: The study was performed on 44 stifle joints from 22 healthy dogs of both sexes from 4 small breeds (Pinscher, Pomeranian, Chihuahua and Yorkshire terrier). Inclusion criteria were negative patellar displacement and dancing patella tests after orthopaedic examination, lack of femoral and gluteal muscles asymmetry after palpation, lack of signs of long-term proprioceptive dysfunction, normal patellar and withdrawal reflexes after neurological examination. The translation of the patella in the axial plane was evaluated by means of congruence angle and axial linear patellar displacement. The rotation of the patella in the axial plane was evaluated through measurement of lateral patellofemoral angle and patellar tilt angle. Reference ranges of parameters were analysed in agreement with the guidelines of the American College of Veterinary Pathologists for the determination of reference intervals in veterinary species for sample sizes of 40-120 with non-Gaussian distribution - robust method, 95% confidence interval (CI) with 90 % CI for upper and lower reference limits. All measured patellofemoral congruence angles were negative. Their reference range was from -8.06o to -0.58o (median value -3o ). The axial patellar displacement was negligible, with values ranging from 0.1 to 0.8 mm. Lateral patellofemoral angles in all dogs were open to the lateral side (positive); the computed reference interval was from 21.61o to 41.80o (median 31.5o ). Patellar tilt angles ranged from 2o to 8o (median 5o ). A statistically significant difference between sexes was demonstrated for angles describing the rotation of the patella in the axial plane: the lateral patellofemoral angle (P = 0.0248) and the patellar tilt angle (P = 0.0004) were greater in stifles of male dogs. Discussion: This is the first study presenting reference values of parameters describing patellofemoral alignment in healthy dogs from small breeds on tangential radiographs. The values of one of most commonly measured parameters on tangential radiographs (the lateral patellofemoral angle) in stifles of small breed dogs were higher than values in humans, supposedly due to the specific joint anatomy. The patellar tilt angle is considered as more objective and not influenced by limb rotation. For the detection of patellar misalignment, the tilt angle was reported to be almost as specific as the congruence angle but more sensitive and more accurate. It is the most specific and sensitive parameter determining the direction of patellar luxation. In male dogs, the median lateral patellofemoral angle was greater than in females (P = 0.0248). Similar tendency was shown for patellar tilt angle that was also greater in male stifles (P = 0.0004). The reported statistically significant between-sex differences in lateral patellofemoral angle and patellar tilt angle with higher values of both angles in stifles of male dogs could be attributed to the better developed femoral muscles, in particular m. vastus medialis and m. sartorius, and to differences in trochlear groove and kneecap morphology. The presented reference intervals may be useful for early detection of subjects with increased risk to medial patellar luxation.

Diagnostic applicability of infrared thermography in the evaluation of canine mammary tumors / Aplicabilidade diagnóstica da termografia infravermelha na avaliação dos tumores mamários caninos

Mammary tumors have a high prevalence in bitches and women, and are related to high rates of morbidity and mortality. For the human species, thermography has stood out as a diagnostic tool for breast cancer. However, its clinical benefit in bitches remains unknown. Thus, the goal of the present study was to evaluate the diagnostic applicability of infrared thermography for canine mammary tumors, as well as to correlate tumor temperature with mitotic index and tumor volume. Thermographic and digital images of eight bitches with mammary neoplasms were captured. Thermograms were entered into the FLIR tools software and the temperature of 15 tumor and 15 healthy glands from the contralateral mammary chain was analyzed. There was no significant difference (p = 0.786) between the mean temperature of neoplastic (33.71°C ± 1.86) and healthy (33.54°C ± 1.59) glands. There was a negative and moderate correlation between tumor temperature and mitotic index (ρ = -0.52 p = 0.049). However, no correlation was detected between mammary temperature and tumor volume (p = 0.10). Although thermography allowed no distinction between neoplastic and healthy mammary glands in bitches, it may be promising to assess the proliferative rate of tumors. In addition, malignant neoplasms may be more often hypothermic than healthy tissue.(AU)

Os tumores mamários apresentam alta prevalência em cadelas e mulheres, sendo relacionados a elevadas taxas de morbidade e mortalidade. Para a espécie humana, a termografia tem se destacado como ferramenta diagnóstica do câncer de mama. Entretanto, o seu benefício clínico em cadelas permanece desconhecido. Assim, o objetivo do presente estudo foi ava-liar a aplicabilidade diagnóstica da termografia infravermelha para os tumores mamários caninos, bem como correlacionar a temperatura tumoral com o índice mitótico e volume tumoral. Foram capturadas imagens termográficas e digitais de oito cadelas com neoplasias mamárias. Os termogramas foram inseridos no software FLIR tools e analisou-se a temperatura de 15 mamas tumorais e 15 hígidas da cadeia mamária contralateral. Não houve diferença significativa (p = 0,786) entre a tempera-tura média das glândulas neoplásicas (33,71°C ± 1,86) e saudáveis (33,54°C ± 1,59). Houve correlação negativa e moderada entre a temperatura tumoral e índice mitótico (ρ = -0,52 p = 0,049). Entretanto, não foi observada correlação entre tempe-ratura e volume tumoral (p = 0,10). Apesar da termografia não ter permitido a diferenciação das mamas neoplásicas e saudá-veis de cadelas, ela pode ser uma forma promissora para avaliação da taxa proliferativa dos tumores. Além disso, as neoplasias malignas podem apresentar-se mais frequentemente hipotérmicas em relação ao tecido saudável.(AU)

Persistência do vítreo primário hiperplásico e catarata em cão / Persistence of hyperplastic primary vitreous and cataract in a dog

Background: Persistent hyperplastic primary vitreous is a rare ocular condition that is usually unilateral, formed when normal regression of the hyaloid vascular system does not occur. Diagnosis is possible through ultrasonography, by obtaining images that provide information and also serve as a differential diagnosis. Clinically the condition presents with signs of leukocoria, microphthalmia, and cataracts, and it can be further classified into 6 degrees according to the evolution. The objective of this work is to describe the case and treatment of a canine of the Pointer breed that presented opacity in both eyes, with diagnosis confirmed through ocular ultrasonography. Case: A 6-year-old male pointer dog, weighing 27 kg, was referred to the Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital of the Federal University of Santa Maria (UFRGS), Santa Maria, RS - Brazil with a history of blindness. According to the owner, the animal's right eye has always been "white", since it was a puppy and the left eye began to present the same characteristic a short time ago. On ophthalmological examination, neither eye showed signs of ocular discomfort, the Schirmer's tear test was within the range expected for the species, fluorescein and threat tests were negative, and a positive pupillary reflex was observed in the left eye. The right eye had total corneal opacity associated with a chronic lesion and the presence of pigment cells in the medial portion of the eyeball, the opacity making it impossible to visualize the other internal structures of the eyeball. The left eye presented lens opacity. In the ultrasound of the right eye, there were several alterations, the presence of a triangular-shaped hyperechogenic structure in the vitreous chamber, a decrease in the depth of the anterior chamber, and the presence of abnormality in the development of the lens. The findings are compatible with and confirmed the diagnosis of PHPV. In the left eye, the ultrasound images indicated hyperechogenicity of the posterior and anterior poles of the lens, findings compatible with cataracts. Through the animal's history, complete ophthalmic examination, and use of ocular ultrasonography, it was possible to diagnose and differentiate the causes of the white eye in the patient. The preoperative screening was continued with an electroretinography examination, which showed a satisfactory electrical response for the retina of the left eye and an unsatisfactory electrical response for the retina of the right eye. Phacoemulsification surgery was performed to remove the cataract in the left eye with intraocular lens implantation. The positive threat reflex returned in this eye, with a return of visual acuity. Discussion: Persistent hyperplastic tunica lentis and persistent hyperplastic primary vitreous (PHTVL/PHPV) are congenital anomalies caused by a failure to regress the fetal hyaloid vasculature. These conditions are not common, but occur sporadically in dogs. The PHPV classification can be classified into degrees, based on the morphological aspect of the lesion. Following this classification scheme, the PHPV of the animal in question refers to the 6th degree of evolution. The total opacity of the cornea in the right eye was associated with the presence of a hyperplastic primary vitreous and the leukocoria in the left eye was due to the presence of a mature cataract. The conclusion of the diagnosis was only possible through ocular ultrasonography, which is very useful to differentiate the causes of ocular opacity and leukocoria, in addition to allowing complete evaluation of the intraocular structures and being considered an essential exam to confirm the diagnosis of PHPV.

Método de punção guiada por ultrassom no diagnóstico de hematoma de barbela em bovino - relato de caso / Ultrasound-guided puncture method in the diagnosis of dewlap hematoma in bovine - case report / Método de punción por ultrasonidos en el diagnóstico del hematoma de papadas en bovinos - informe de uncaso

Injúrias relacionadas a interação animal/estrutura podem ser encontradas em sistema de confinamento Free-Stall. O hematoma de barbela pode estar relacionado a uma lesãoporcontato sofrido pelo animal com o tronco limitador da cama do Free-Stall no momentoemque ele deita para descansar. O objetivo do presente relato é descrever ummétododediagnóstico e tratamento utilizado em uma fêmea leiteira que apresentou aumento de volumelocalizado na região da barbela. Um bovino ½ HZ, fêmea, primípara, comaproximadamente60 dias em lactação (DEL), acomodada em sistema de confinamento Free-Stall e provenientede fazenda localizada no município de Lavras ­ MG apresentou aumento de volume na regiãoda barbela, sem mais nenhuma manifestação clínica. Durante o exame físico, identificou-seapresença de líquido na região edemaciada da barbela, próximo a região do peito. Foi realizadoexame ultrassonográfico e descartada a presença de pus. Com isso, foi feita uma punçãoguiada por ultrassom no local e confirmado a presença de sangue. Comesses resultados, confirmou-se o diagnóstico de hematoma e determinou-se a etiologia: lesão de contatodoanimal com o limitador da contenção da cama. Foi realizado o tratamento e houverecuperação significativa do animal. A punção guiada por ultrassomproporcionouaverificação da composição do líquido e comprovou a utilidade do exame ultrassonográfico, que foi de extrema importância para o relato.(AU)

Injuries related to animal/structure interaction can be found in Free-Stall confinement systems. The dewlap hematoma may be related to an injury caused by contact suffered by the animal with the restraint structure of the Free-Stall's liyng when it lies down to rest. The objectiveofthe present report is to describe a method of diagnosis and treatment used in a dairy cattle that presented an increase in volume located in the region of the dewlap. A primiparous female ½ HZ cow, with approximately 60 days in milk (DIM), accommodated in a Free-Stall confinement system and coming from a farm located in the municipality of Lavras - MG, presented an increase in volume in the dewlap region, without any further clinical manifestation. During the physical exam, the presence of fluid was identified in the swollenregion of the dewlap, close to the chest region. Ultrasound examination was performedandthe presence of pus was ruled out. Thus, an ultrasound-guided puncture was performedat thesite and the presence of blood was confirmed. With these results, the diagnosis of hematomawas confirmed and the etiology was determined: contact injury of the animal with the restraint structure of the lying. The treatment was carried out and there was a significant recoveryofthe animal. The ultrasound-guided puncture provided the verification of the liquidcomposition and proved the utility of the ultrasound examination, which was extremely important for this report.(AU)

En los sistemas de confinamiento Free-Stall pueden encontrarse lesiones relacionadas conlainteracción entre el animal y la estructura. El hematoma de la papada puede estar relacionadocon una lesión por contacto sufrida por el animal con el tronco limitador de la cama deFree-Stall al acostarse para descansar. El objetivo del presente informe es describir un métododediagnóstico y tratamiento utilizado en una hembra lechera que presentaba una inflamaciónlocalizada en la región de la papada. Un bovino ½ HZ, hembra, primípara, conaproximadamente 60 días de lactancia (DDL), alojada en un sistema de confinamientoFree-Stall y proveniente de una hacienda localizada en el municipio de Lavras - MGpresentóunaumento de volumen en la región de la papada, sin ninguna otra manifestaciónclínica. Durante el examen físico, se identificó la presencia de líquido en la región hinchadadelapapada, cerca de la región del pecho. Se realizó un examen ultrasonográfico y se descartólapresencia de pus. Con esto, se realizó una punción guiada por ultrasonido en el lugar yseconfirmó la presencia de sangre. Con estos resultados, se confirmó el diagnósticodehematoma y se determinó la etiología: lesión por contacto del animal con el limitador delacama. El tratamiento se llevó a cabo y hubo una recuperación significativa del animal. Lapunción guiada por ultrasonido permitió verificar la composición del fluido y demostrólautilidad del examen ultrasonográfico, que fue sumamente importante para el informe.(AU)

Influence of age and sex on bone development and athletic career longevity of Thoroughbred racehorses in Brazil - preliminary study / Influência do gênero e da idade no estágio de desenvolvimento ósseo e longevidade atlética de equinos da Raça Puro Sangue Inglês de corridas no Brasil - estudo preliminar

The impact of high-speed exercise on the musculoskeletal system of young racehorses has been extensively discussed because of concerns regarding animal health and welfare. This study investigated the correlation between age, degree of ossification of the distal radial epiphysis, sex, and career longevity of Thoroughbred racehorses in Brazil from 2012 to 2015. We performed a retrospective evaluation of 286 dorsopalmar radiographs of the left radiocarpal region of young horses and their racing performance. Distal radial epiphyseal closure was classified into three degrees: A, B, or C. Performance data included the number of races raced, athletic career length, and the number of races per month. The variables were subjected to regression analysis. At the time of radiographic examination, male horses were significantly older than females, and horses with epiphyseal closure degrees differed with age. Age at first race was 33.08±3.81 months, the average of races raced was 18.32±15.14 races, athletic career duration was 20.37±13.82 months, and the number of races raced per month was 0.93±0.46 races. Age influenced (P>0.001) the distal radial epiphyseal closure on racehorses, but sex did not (P=0.218 for males and P=0.275 for females). An inverse association was observed between age at the first race, the number of races raced per month, and athletic career duration. The frequency of race and the age at the first race influenced athletic career duration.

O impacto do exercício de alta velocidade no sistema musculoesquelético de cavalos de corrida jovens tem sido amplamente discutido devido a preocupações com a saúde e o bem-estar animal. Este estudo investigou a correlação entre idade, grau de ossificação da epífise radial distal, sexo e longevidade da carreira de cavalos Puro Sangue Inglês de corrida no Brasil de 2012 a 2015. Realizamos uma avaliação retrospectiva de 286 radiografias dorsopalmar da região radiocarpica esquerda de cavalos jovens e seu desempenho de corrida. O fechamento epifisário radial distal foi classificado em três graus decrescentes: A, B ou C. Os dados de desempenho incluíram o número de corridas disputadas, duração da carreira atlética e o número de corridas por mês. As variáveis foram submetidas à análise de regressão. No momento do exame radiográfico, os cavalos machos eram significativamente mais velhos que as fêmeas, e os cavalos com diferentes graus de fechamento epifisário diferiram com a idade. A idade na primeira corrida foi de 33,08±3,81 meses, a média de corridas disputadas foi de 18,32±15,14 corridas, a duração da carreira atlética foi de 20,37±13,82 meses e o número de corridas realizadas por mês foi de 0,93±0,46 corridas. A idade influenciou (P>0,001) o fechamento da epífise radial distal em cavalos de corrida, mas o sexo não (P=0,218 para machos e P=0,275 para fêmeas). Uma associação inversa foi observada entre a idade na primeira corrida, o número de corridas disputadas por mês e a duração da carreira atlética. A frequência de corrida e a idade na primeira corrida influenciaram a duração da carreira atlética.

B-mode and Doppler ultrasound of bitches' kidneys with mammary neoplasia submitted to adjuvant chemotherapy / Ultrassonografia modo-B e Doppler dos rins de cadelas com neoplasias mamárias submetidas à quimioterapia adjuvante

Mammary neoplasia represents the most frequently diagnosed type of neoplasia in bitches. Although surgical removal is the procedure of choice for therapeutic management, chemotherapy protocols appear as important allies and adjuvants. Despite the great advances that have occurred in the field of cancer therapy, the systemic repercussions of these drugs still impose important limitations on their use. In this sense, the development of increasingly targeted therapeutic protocols and preventive monitoring of patients represent important strategies to avoid possible complications - among them, Acute Kidney Injury (AKI). Routinely, ultrasound evaluation is used to identify morphological or metastatic variations in abdominal cavity organs. Acting complementary to the B-mode evaluation, Doppler mapping proves to be efficient in recognizing alterations in vascular hemodynamics. Therefore, the objective of the present study was to evaluate the use of B-mode and Doppler ultrasound to identify renal morphological and hemodynamic alterations in bitches with mammary neoplasia submitted to adjuvant chemotherapy protocols that associate gemcitabine with carboplatin. Thirteen bitches were included, without distinction of breed and between seven and 13 years of age. The animals were evaluated ultrasonographically at two different times during three consecutive chemotherapy cycles: before (T0) and one and a half hours after each cycle (T1), for 42 days. No morphological changes were observed in B-mode throughout the chemotherapy protocol. However, the Doppler velocimetry indices demonstrated statistical differences before (T0) and after (T1) the administration of the drugs. It was concluded that Doppler ultrasound could be used as a complementary method for monitoring the renal response of patients exposed to nephrotoxic drugs and potentially causing renal injury.

As neoplasias mamárias representam o tipo de neoplasma mais frequentemente diagnosticado em fêmeas da espécie canina. Embora a remoção cirúrgica seja o procedimento de eleição para a conduta terapêutica, os protocolos quimioterápicos aparecem como importantes aliados e adjuvantes. Apesar dos grandes avanços ocorridos na área da terapia oncológica, as repercussões sistêmicas destes fármacos ainda impõem importantes limitações ao seu uso. Neste sentido, o desenvolvimento de protocolos terapêuticos cada vez mais direcionados e o monitoramento preventivo dos pacientes representam estratégias importantes para evitar possíveis complicações - dentre elas, a injúria renal aguda (IRA). Rotineiramente, a avaliação ultrassonográfica é utilizada para identificação de variações morfológicas ou metastáticas em órgãos da cavidade abdominal. Atuando de forma complementar à avaliação em modo-B, o mapeamento Doppler mostra-se eficiente no reconhecimento de alterações na hemodinâmica vascular. Portanto, o objetivo do presente estudo foi avaliar a utilização da ultrassonografia modo-B e Doppler como método para identificação de alterações morfológicas e hemodinâmicas renais em cadelas com neoplasias mamárias submetidas a protocolos quimioterápicos adjuvantes que associam a gencitabina à carboplatina. Foram incluídas 13 fêmeas caninas, sem distinção quanto a raça e com idades entre sete e 13 anos. Os animais foram avaliados ultrassonograficamente em dois momentos distintos durante três ciclos quimioterápicos consecutivos: antes (T0) e uma hora e meia após a realização de cada ciclo (T1), totalizando 42 dias. Não foram observadas alterações morfológicas em modo-B ao longo do protocolo quimioterápico. Entretanto, os índices dopplervelocimétricos demonstraram diferenças estatísticas antes (T0) e após (T1) a administração dos fármacos. Concluiu-se que a ultrassonografia Doppler pode ser utilizada como método complementar para o monitoramento da resposta renal de pacientes expostos a fármacos nefrotóxicos e potencialmente causadores de injúrias renais.

Gastroesophageal foreign bodies in dogs - endoscopy and surgical removal

Background: Gastroesophageal foreign bodies (GFD) are commonly diagnosed in dogs and are considered an endoscopic emergency that, although not resulting in serious clinical sequelae or mortality, can compromise the health and well-being of the patient. The use of the digestive endoscopy for the diagnosis and treatment of GFD can be a valuable and viable alternative. There are cases of GFD in dogs for which the indicated treatment is surgery, which can be performed using minimally invasive or conventional techniques, associated or not with flexible endoscopy. The objective of this work is to describe 16 cases of GFD removal in dogs demonstrating the efficiency of upper digestive endoscopy. Cases: Of the 16 GFD cases, 63% (10/16) were male and 37% (6/16) female. Most aged under 1 year (63%), puppies (5/16) and juveniles (5/16). The patient with the lowest body weight was a miniature pinscher weighing 0.8 kg (Case 14) and the heaviest was an American Pit Bull Terrier weighing 28 kg (Case 11), the mean body weight of patients diagnosed with GFD was 10.2 ± 6.7 kg. Small and medium breeds were more affected, 44.7% (7/16) and 44.7% (7/16), respectively, and large breeds (Golden Retrievier and Bull Terrier), from cases 1 and 4, the least affected, 12.6% (2/16) of the cases. The 16 patients underwent a 12 h food fast and a 4 h water fast, as gastrointestinal emptying in these cases of GFD can be influenced by these foreign bodies. All underwent general inhalation anesthesia with monitoring of physiological parameters (temperature, heart rate, respiratory rate, oxygen saturation and blood pressure) before, during and after EGD, being positioned in left lateral decubitus. The 16 canine patients with suspected GFD underwent EGD for diagnostic confirmation and removal of foreign bodies. Five esophageal FB were diagnosed, 31% (5/16), and 11 gastric FB, 69% (11/16). The most frequently diagnosed foreign bodies were bone and tissue, 37.5% (6/16) and 31% (5/16). Other foreign bodies were materials such as plastics, metals, rubber, foam and stone. Of the 16 cases of GFD, EGD efficiently treated 88% (14/16) without the need for hospitalization, with only supportive treatment for the remission of complications caused by the presence of foreign bodies in the gastroesophageal tract. The main complications related to the presence of GFD were esophagitis in 25% (4/16) of cases, gastritis in 38% (6/16) and both alterations in 13% (2/16). Discussion: In this work, we can observe that more than a third of the clinical cases of treated dogs were diagnosed with GFD, demonstrating that these cases are common in the veterinary clinic. Most of these animals were males less than 1 year old. The improvement of learning in this category can lead these animals to exacerbated oral exploration of new objects. Most FBs were found in the stomach because they were of adequate size, consistency and shape for their passage through the esophagus, whereas esophageal FBs were all bone fragments of rigid consistency with diameters and sizes larger than the esophageal lumen. The interval between the ingestion of the object and the veterinary care can be decisive for the removal of the FB in the esophagus or stomach. Most gastric FBs removed were fabrics and plastics, flexible objects that can pass through the esophageal lumen more easily. Removal of GFD by endoscopy was performed with a high success rate, with only 2 cases being resolved by esophagostomy and gastrotomy. Flexible endoscopy proved to be an efficient technique for removing treated GFD, which can help remove FB during esophagotomy and be associated with rigid endoscopy. Patients recovered quickly and without complications, but it is important to emphasize that inadequate maneuvers and conducts can determine other outcomes. The use of endoscopy for GFD removal needs to be more popularized, as it can ensure better results for dogs treated with GFD.

Felinos portadores de cardiomiopatia fenótipo hipertrófica - eixo elétrico da onda P / Cats with hypertrophic phenotype cardiomyopathy - P-wave electrical axis

Background: Hypertrophic phenotype cardiomyopathy is the most common heart disease in cats. Although the echocardiogram is the gold standard test for diagnosing fHCM, patients with the disease may have electrocardiographic changes. Despite being reported in most 12-lead electrocardiograms, the P wave axis generally receives little attention when compared to other wave parameters. We performed a Doppler echocardiographic and electrocardiographic study in cats, in order to verify the presence of correlation between the electrical axis average P wave and the presence of fCMH, aiming to investigate the possibility of its aid in the early diagnosis of cardiac disorders. Materials, Methods & Results: One hundred cats of different breeds, ages, males and females were evaluated. Those animals with a history of previous disease other than hypertrophic cardiomyopathy were excluded from the study. The groups were formed after obtaining the results of the echocardiographic examination. Eight of the 100 cats did not allow echocardiographic evaluation, and the remaining 92 were divided into 2 groups (control group, n = 64 and heart disease group, n = 28) after the examination. Of these 92 animals, 28 cats had the hypertrophic cardiomyopathy phenotype. The electrocardiographic examination was performed after the allocation of animals into groups lasting 5 min with the recording of tracings for later interpretation. To calculate the axis of the P wave, leads D1 and D3 were used, measuring the amplitude of the P wave in these leads and calculating the resulting amplitude. All cats studied had mean electrical axis of the P wave within the normal range for the species (0º to 90º). Based on mean electrical axis P wave values, there was no significant difference between groups. The control group had a median of 63.7° with a maximum value of 80°, a minimum value of 60° and a mean of 65.1°. The fCMH group had a median of 68.7° with a maximum value of 85.3°, a minimum value of 56.3° and a mean of 68.8°. Of the fCMH group, 3 cats had increased P wave duration (50.33 ± 5.77 ms), suggesting left atrial overload, and 13 cats had increased QRS complex duration (66.30 ± 11.23 ms). Also, 18 cats (Control group: 11; fCMH group: 7) showed T wave amplitude greater than 25% of R, suggesting the presence of myocardial hypoxia and/or electrolyte disturbance. One cat had a prolonged PR interval (from the fCMH group). As for the QT interval, 6 cats had an interval < 120 (2 from the control group and 4 from the affected group) and 3 had an interval > 180 (1 from the control group and 2 from the affected group). The ST segment remained isoelectric in all segments. As for the mean electrical axis of the QRS complex, 5 cats (10.42%) had axis deviation to the right (control: 1; fCMH: 4) suggesting right ventricular overload; 7 cats (14.58%) had left axis deviation (control: 5; fCMH: 2), suggestive of left ventricular overload; and 36 cats (75%) had a normal mean electrical axis. Discussion: Based on the results obtained in the present study, it can be concluded that screening studies in asymptomatic felines should be increasingly implemented in the veterinary clinical routine, since the frequency found was high (30.44%) and that patients may remain asymptomatic for years until the development of signs. It should be concluded that there was no correlation between the mean electric axis of P-wave and the presence of subclinical phenotype hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. Therefore, more studies are needed, with felines at different stages of the disease, to evaluate whether this electrocardiographic measurement allows us to assist in its diagnosis, since it is a feasible measure in cats. Furthermore, it is concluded that the electrocardiogram should be used as an aid method in the diagnosis of the disease and not as a screening test.

Degeneração mixomatosa das válvulas atrioventriculares em cachorro-do-mato (Cerdocyon thous) - diagnóstico ecocardiográfico / Myxomatous degeneration of atrioventricular valves in a crab-eating fox (Cerdocyon thous) - echocardiography diagnosis

Background: The myxomatosis degeneration is a degenerative cardiac valve disease, with a higher incidence in maleand senile canids. The diagnosis is made by a doppler echocardiography exam. Although there are few reports on the occurrence of cardiopathies in wild dogs (Cerdocyon thous), some studies on their cardiological parameters can be found.Considering this, and knowing that the cardiopathies in wild canids are common post mortem findings, the objective of thisstudy is to describe the echocardiography diagnosis of a case of myxomatous degeneration of the atrioventricular valvesin 1 wild dog (Cerdocyon thous) living in captivity.Case: It was treated at the Diagnostic Imaging Department of the Veterinary Hospital of the Federal University of Mato Grosso(HOVET-UFMT), 1 wild dog (C. thous), male, living in captivity with approximately 10-year-old, directed by the Center ofMedicine and Research in Wild Animals of Cuiabá, to perform echocardiography exam. The patient was submitted to anesthesiafor proper examination, which was used Esaote® machine model MyLabFive VET with sector scan transducer (4.0 -7.5 MHz).The longitudinal, transverse and apical scan planes were obtained through left and right parasternal windows. The evaluation ofM mode exposed ejection fraction and shortening increased, of 81% and 47%, respectively, however it showed no increase insystolic and diastolic values of left ventricle, nor in right cavities on subjective evaluation. The relation between the left atrium(LA) and the aorta (Ao) remained normal, at 1.2 mm, with dimensions of 13.4 mm from the AO and 16.3 mm from LA, compatible with species parameters or domestic canines. The atrioventricular valves showed thickening and irregularities in their cusps,with great intensity in the left atrioventricular valve (LAV). The Doppler mode analysis revealed a turbulent systolic flow into the...

Sclerosing encapsulating peritonitis in a dog

Sclerosing encapsulating peritonitis (SEP) is a rare condition which consists of reactive fibrous tissue proliferation with mixed inflammatory infiltration within the abdominal cavity. The present report describes an additional case of SEP affecting a mixed-breed immature female dog presented with persistent vomiting, progressive weight loss, and ascites. Abdominal radiographic and ultrasonographic findings suggested abdominal neoformation resulting in gastric displacement, in addition ascitic fluid was evaluated and cytology showed large numbers of inflammatory effusion. An exploratory laparotomy was performed and were detected multiple thick peritoneal adhesions which restricted mobility of abdominal viscera. Biopsy specimens of these lesions were submitted for histopathological examination. Microscopically, the external serous surfaces of the abdominal organs were covered with dense fibrous connective tissue characterized by intense mature collagen deposition and moderate angiogenesis. The animal was euthanized due to poor prognosis and sent for necropsy. The clinical, imaging, gross and microscopic findings were compatible with SEP.(AU)

Echocardiographic diagnosis of interventricular septum defect with Eisenmenger syndrome in an adult dog - case report / Diagnóstico ecocardiográfico de defeito do septo interventricularcom agravo de síndrome de Eisenmenger em cão adulto ­ relato de caso

Interventricular septal defect (IVSD) is a congenital heart disease characterized by communication or non-closure of the interventricular septum in the embryonic or postnatal period, causing a failure in the separation between the systemic and pulmonary circulation. The severity of the hemodynamic consequences depends on the extent of the defect and the magnitude of the flow through it. Blood flow commonly occurs from left to right, because systemic vascular resistance is greater than pulmonary resistance. This report describes the echocardiographic findings in a 4-year-old male Poodle treated at the Veterinary Hospital with a history of exercise intolerance, cyanosis and episodes of syncope. On echocardiography, perimembranous IVSD was diagnosed with atrial and right ventricular dilatation, discontinuity of the interventricular septum in the subaortic region measuring approximately 5 mm. In the Doppler evaluation, reverse turbulent flow was evidenced, characterizing shunt from right to left (Eisenmenger syndrome). Despite preserved systolic function, abnormal relaxation was observed. Doppler echocardiography was a fundamental complementary imaging test for the diagnosis of this congenital heart disease since its suspicion is not commonly raised in adult patients. Doppler echocardiography allowed us to identify the defect, define its size and extension, determine the direction of blood flow as well as its hemodynamic consequences.(AU)

O defeito do septo interventricular (DSIV) é uma cardiopatia congênita caracterizada pela comunicação ou não fechamento do septo interventricular no período embrionário ou pós-natal, causando falha na separação entre a circulação sis-têmica e pulmonar. A gravidade das consequências hemodinâmicas depende da extensão do defeito e da magnitude do fluxo através dele. O fluxo sanguíneo comumente ocorre da esquerda para a direita, porque a resistência vascular sistêmica é maior do que a pulmonar. Este relato descreve os achados ecocardiográficos em um Poodle, macho, de 4 anos atendido no Hospital Veterinário com história de intolerância ao exercício, cianose e episódios de síncope. Ao ecocardiograma foi diagnosticado DSIV do tipo perimembranoso com dilatação atrial e ventricular direita, descontinuidade do septo interventricular em região subaórtica medindo aproximadamente 5 mm. Na avaliação Doppler, evidenciou-se fluxo turbulento reverso, caracterizando shunt da direita para a esquerda (síndrome de Eisenmenger). Apesar da função sistólica preservada, foi observado relaxamento anormal. A ecocardiografia Doppler foi um exame de imagem complementar fundamental para o diagnóstico dessa cardio-patia congênita, uma vez que sua suspeita não é comumente levantada em pacientes adultos. A ecocardiografia Doppler per-mitiu identificar o defeito, definir seu tamanho e extensão, determinar a direção do fluxo sanguíneo, bem como suas conse-quências hemodinâmicas.(AU)