Malformações congênitas em ovinos - surto causado por Mimosa tenuiflora / Congenital malformationsin sheep - outbreak caused by Mimosa tenuiflora

Background: Congenital malformations are anomalies, structural or functional, that occur during the embryonic or fetal phase. There are several causes, one of which is the ingestion of toxic plants. Considering the importance of native toxic plants in the Central Backlands of Ceará state - Brazil, this paper reports cases of congenital malformations in sheep due to ingestion of Mimosa tenuiflora. Cases: Cases of abortion and malformations in sheep, were monitored in a rural property in the municipality of Piquet Carneiro with 20 ruminants (15 sheep and 5 cows) raised on a semi-intensive regime. The animals grazed during the day and were supplemented with corn, having unrestricted access to dam water. On its margins, there was a large amount of jurema preta (Mimosa tenuiflora), which the owner reported that the sheep consumed daily. The owner was unaware of the toxicity of M. tenuiflora but reported that cases of malformations had already occurred on his property some time ago. In an interval of approximately 12 days, 3 sheep miscarriage fetuses with multiple malformations. Malformed fetuses were referred for anatomopathological examination at the Animal Pathology Laboratory of the Veterinary Hospital of Federal University of Campina Grande (UFCG), Campus Patos, Paraíba, Brazil. The fetuses were necropsied and tissue samples of the nervous system and organs from the thoracic and abdominal cavities were collected, fixed in 10% neutral buffered formalin, routinely processed for histopathology, included in paraffin, cut into 3 µm sections and stained with hematoxylin and eosin (HE). At necropsies were observed permanent contracture of the thoracic limb joints (arthrogryposis), particularly at the radio-carpal joints; incomplete medial fusion of the palatal bone, with communication between the oral and nasal cavities (palatoschisis); hypoplasia of the mandibular bone (micrognathia); unilateral hypoplasia of the incisive bone with discontinuity of the upper lip (cheiloschisis); unilateral hypoplasia of the eyeball (microphthalmia); lateral curvature of the cervical spine (scoliosis); and chest deformity characterized by ventral protrusion of the sternum and ribs (Pectus carinatum). At the histopathological evaluation of the tissues, no alterations were observed. Discussion: The diagnosis was based on the epidemiological, clinical, and anatomopathological findings. The semi-intensive management system applied on the property predisposed the sheep to ingestion of M. tenuiflora, which grows abundantly on the property and throughout the Central Backlands of Ceará, Brazil, with a high rate of geographical coverage. Despite that, most rural producers, especially subsistence farmers, are unaware of the toxic and teratogenic properties of the plant. In the northeastern, where there are long periods of drought coupled with forage shortages, poisoning by M. tenuiflora is a common cause of malformation and mortality in lambs. Therefore, it is necessary to adopt preventive measures in herds, such as raising awareness among producers about the toxic potential of some native plants and the practice of producing and supplying silage to animals, so that native toxic plants are not the only food source during the scarcity period.

A dicephalus calf: anatomical, pathological and radiographic aspects

Congenital malformations are morphofunctional abnormalities of tissues and organs that can occur during embryonic or fetal development in all animal species. Among these, dicephalus is characterized by the development of an individual with two heads and two necks, due to the total duplication of facial, cranial, and brain structures. Reports of dicephalus in cattle are scarce and do not normally emphasize radiographic and bone anatomy characteristics. The objective was to describe a case of a stillborn dicephalus calf. The duplication of the head, brain, neck, and two thoracic vertebral columns, isolated from each other, with 13 vertebrae each was verified radiographically. There were 13 pairs of ribs, the ones on the right side articulated with the thoracic spine on the right and the left ones with the spine on the left. Caudally at T13, there was only one lumbar spine, sacral and coccygeal. In the ventrodorsal projection, L1, L2, L3, and L6 had the shape of a butterfly (suggestive of hemivertebrae). At necropsy, in addition to craniocervical and spinal morphological changes, collapsed lungs, duplication of the heart with anastomosis between the aortic arches of the hearts, and duplication of the upper digestive tract were observed. Additionally, there was arthrogryposis of the pelvic limbs. Corpse maceration, followed by the skeletal assembly, showed the bone changes previously observed and confirmed the suspicion of hemivertebrae.

A dicephalus calf: anatomical, pathological and radiographic aspects

Congenital malformations are morphofunctional abnormalities of tissues and organs that can occur during embryonic or fetal development in all animal species. Among these, dicephalus is characterized by the development of an individual with two heads and two necks, due to the total duplication of facial, cranial, and brain structures. Reports of dicephalus in cattle are scarce and do not normally emphasize radiographic and bone anatomy characteristics. The objective was to describe a case of a stillborn dicephalus calf. The duplication of the head, brain, neck, and two thoracic vertebral columns, isolated from each other, with 13 vertebrae each was verified radiographically. There were 13 pairs of ribs, the ones on the right side articulated with the thoracic spine on the right and the left ones with the spine on the left. Caudally at T13, there was only one lumbar spine, sacral and coccygeal. In the ventrodorsal projection, L1, L2, L3, and L6 had the shape of a butterfly (suggestive of hemivertebrae). At necropsy, in addition to craniocervical and spinal morphological changes, collapsed lungs, duplication of the heart with anastomosis between the aortic arches of the hearts, and duplication of the upper digestive tract were observed. Additionally, there was arthrogryposis of the pelvic limbs. Corpse maceration, followed by the skeletal assembly, showed the bone changes previously observed and confirmed the suspicion of hemivertebrae.(AU)

Arthrogryposis multiplex congenita in Aberdeen Angus cattle in Uruguay / Artrogripose múltipla congênita em bovinos Aberdeen Angus no Uruguai

Arthrogryposis multiplex congenita is reported for the first time in the Aberdeen Angus (AA) breed in Uruguay. In a commercial herd of 30 purebred Aberdeen Angus cows, two calves with severe musculoskeletal malformations died at birth. The cows had been inseminated using semen imported from Argentina from one elite AA sire only. At necropsy, one calf showed severe muscular atrophy, arthrogryposis affecting all four limbs and the spine, kyphoscoliosis and torticollis. Histopathology showed muscular atrophy with marked fiber size variation and abundant fibroadipose fibers. The central nervous system only showed congestion and edema due to dystocia, whereas the peripheral nerves and the number of motor neurons in the spinal appeared normal. DNA analysis confirmed arthrogryposis multiplex congenita. It is concluded that disease in Aberdeen Angus cattle is due to failure in the neuromuscular junction.(AU)

Artrogripose múltipla congênita é relatada pela primeira vez em bovinos Aberdeen Angus (AA) no Uruguai. Num rebanho comercial de 30 vacas a Aberdeen Angus, dois bezerros com graves malformações musculoesqueléticas morreram logo após o nascimento. As vacas foram inseminadas utilizando sêmen importado da Argentina, de apenas um touro de elite de AA. Na necropsia, um dos bezerros apresentava atrofia muscular grave, artrogripose afetando todos os quatro membros e a coluna vertebral, cifoscoliose e torcicolo. A histopatologia demonstrou atrofia muscular com acentuadas variações no tamanho das fibras e abundantes fibras fibroadiposas. O sistema nervoso central apresentava apenas congestão e edema devido à distocia, enquanto os nervos periféricos e o número de neurônios motores na medula espinhal pareciam normais. A análise de DNA confirmou artrogripose múltipla congênita. Concluiu-se que a doença em bovinos Aberdeen Angus se deve a falha na junção neuromuscular.(AU)

Arthrogryposis multiplex congenita in Aberdeen Angus cattle in Uruguay / Artrogripose múltipla congênita em bovinos Aberdeen Angus no Uruguai

Arthrogryposis multiplex congenita is reported for the first time in the Aberdeen Angus (AA) breed in Uruguay. In a commercial herd of 30 purebred Aberdeen Angus cows, two calves with severe musculoskeletal malformations died at birth. The cows had been inseminated using semen imported from Argentina from one elite AA sire only. At necropsy, one calf showed severe muscular atrophy, arthrogryposis affecting all four limbs and the spine, kyphoscoliosis and torticollis. Histopathology showed muscular atrophy with marked fiber size variation and abundant fibroadipose fibers. The central nervous system only showed congestion and edema due to dystocia, whereas the peripheral nerves and the number of motor neurons in the spinal appeared normal. DNA analysis confirmed arthrogryposis multiplex congenita. It is concluded that disease in Aberdeen Angus cattle is due to failure in the neuromuscular junction.(AU)

Artrogripose múltipla congênita é relatada pela primeira vez em bovinos Aberdeen Angus (AA) no Uruguai. Num rebanho comercial de 30 vacas a Aberdeen Angus, dois bezerros com graves malformações musculoesqueléticas morreram logo após o nascimento. As vacas foram inseminadas utilizando sêmen importado da Argentina, de apenas um touro de elite de AA. Na necropsia, um dos bezerros apresentava atrofia muscular grave, artrogripose afetando todos os quatro membros e a coluna vertebral, cifoscoliose e torcicolo. A histopatologia demonstrou atrofia muscular com acentuadas variações no tamanho das fibras e abundantes fibras fibroadiposas. O sistema nervoso central apresentava apenas congestão e edema devido à distocia, enquanto os nervos periféricos e o número de neurônios motores na medula espinhal pareciam normais. A análise de DNA confirmou artrogripose múltipla congênita. Concluiu-se que a doença em bovinos Aberdeen Angus se deve a falha na junção neuromuscular.(AU)

Hipoplasia pulmonar associada à ascite e hidrotórax em um suíno neonato / Pulmonary hypoplasia associated with ascites and hydrothorax in a newborn pig

Background: Pulmonary hypoplasia is characterized by incomplete development of the lungs, owing to congenital defectsor the action of toxic substances. Moreover, it has rarely been described in pigs. Ascites or hydroperitoneum is characterized by the presence of fluid inside the abdominal cavity and does not generally cause changes in the abdominal organs.However, hydrothorax, characterized by the presence of fluid within the thoracic cavity, is responsible for the compressionof thoracic organs and consequent heart and respiratory failure. This study aims to describe a case of congenital pulmonaryhypoplasia associated with ascites and hydrothorax in a newborn pig.Case: A male neonate Landrace pig that died shortly after delivery was presented for necropsy with increased abdominalvolume and bilateral extension of the pelvic limbs. The pig belonged to a litter of 13 piglets, four of which died shortlyafter birth. The rest of the piglets were poorly developed, but only one was presented for necropsy. Significant externalchanges, along with permanent distension, interpreted as arthrogriposis, were observed in the pelvic limbs. The skin of theventral abdominal region was thin, with evidence of all blood vessels, interpreted as telangectasis. An internal examination revealed the presence of a slightly yellowish liquid in the thoracic and abdominal cavities, interpreted as hydrothoraxand ascites, respectively. The lungs were reduced in size, indicating pulmonary hypoplasia. The liver had rounded edges,which were dark red and firm, with an irregular surface. Significant microscopic findings were observed in the lungs,which were divided by fibrous connective tissue and showed evidence of small and atrophied alveoli. Furthermore, connective tissue was observed around the peribronchiolar regions and underdeveloped cartilage around the airways. The liver...

Hipoplasia pulmonar associada à ascite e hidrotórax em um suíno neonato / Pulmonary hypoplasia associated with ascites and hydrothorax in a newborn pig

Background: Pulmonary hypoplasia is characterized by incomplete development of the lungs, owing to congenital defectsor the action of toxic substances. Moreover, it has rarely been described in pigs. Ascites or hydroperitoneum is characterized by the presence of fluid inside the abdominal cavity and does not generally cause changes in the abdominal organs.However, hydrothorax, characterized by the presence of fluid within the thoracic cavity, is responsible for the compressionof thoracic organs and consequent heart and respiratory failure. This study aims to describe a case of congenital pulmonaryhypoplasia associated with ascites and hydrothorax in a newborn pig.Case: A male neonate Landrace pig that died shortly after delivery was presented for necropsy with increased abdominalvolume and bilateral extension of the pelvic limbs. The pig belonged to a litter of 13 piglets, four of which died shortlyafter birth. The rest of the piglets were poorly developed, but only one was presented for necropsy. Significant externalchanges, along with permanent distension, interpreted as arthrogriposis, were observed in the pelvic limbs. The skin of theventral abdominal region was thin, with evidence of all blood vessels, interpreted as telangectasis. An internal examination revealed the presence of a slightly yellowish liquid in the thoracic and abdominal cavities, interpreted as hydrothoraxand ascites, respectively. The lungs were reduced in size, indicating pulmonary hypoplasia. The liver had rounded edges,which were dark red and firm, with an irregular surface. Significant microscopic findings were observed in the lungs,which were divided by fibrous connective tissue and showed evidence of small and atrophied alveoli. Furthermore, connective tissue was observed around the peribronchiolar regions and underdeveloped cartilage around the airways. The liver...(AU)

Congenital abnormalities and arthrogryposis in newly born lambs in Al Muthanna province Iraq. Suspicion of Akabane virus infection / Anormalidades congênitas e artrogripose em cordeiros recém-nascidos na província de Al Muthanna, Iraque. Suspeita de infecção pelo vírus Akabane

Akabane virus, a member of the Orthobunyavirus genus in the family Bunyaviridae, causes congenital abnormalities and arthrogryposis with hydrocephalus or hydroencephaly in ruminants. This study intends to describe the clinical signs, gross and histopathological features seen in 25 affected lambs in an outbreak of congenital arthrogryposis with hydrocephalus or hydranencephaly in Al-Muthanna governorate, Iraq after a large number of stillbirths and musculoskeletal deformities from October 2017 to May 2018. Skeletal muscle hypoplasia was seen in the limbs of the affected lambs accompanied with severe arthrogryposis and gross visible brain malformations. In addition, fetal mummifications, stillbirths, and dead lambs were also seen. The most histopathological features in muscle fibers were degenerative lesions and absences of cross-striation accompanied with mild infiltration of neutrophils and mononuclear cells in severely affected lambs. The meninges of affected lambs revealed fused membranes with focal areas of fibrous thickenings and necrotic debris. In conclusion, according to clinical signs, gross and histopathological investigations, Akabane virus, a member of the Orthobunyavirus genus in the family Bunyaviridae, causes congenital abnormalities and arthrogryposis with hydrocephalus or hydroencephaly in ruminants and could be the cause of this outbreak, although future studies must be performed to confirm the etiology of this outbreak. Moreover, other causes of hydrocephalus or cerebellar malformation, such as Schmallenberg virus, bluetongue virus and border disease virus and teratogenic plants that lead to arthrogryposis, have to be investigated. Also, the authorities should take prevention and control measurements to stop the replication of arthropod vectors.(AU)

O presente trabalho descreve os sinais clínicos, as lesões macroscópicas e os aspectos histológicos observados em 25 cordeiros acometidos em um surto de artrogripose congênita com hidrocéfalo ou hidrocefalia registrado no Iraque, governadoria Al-Muthama após a ocorrência de nascimentos prematuros e deformidades músculo-esqueléticas no período compreendido entre outubro de 2017 e maio de 2018. A hipoplasia músculo-esquelética foi observada nos membros dos cordeiros afetados, acompanhada de severa artrogripose e malformações cerebrais, grosseiras visíveis, além de mumificações fetais, nascimentos prematuros e morte de cordeiros. Os principais aspectos histopatológicos nas fibras musculares foram lesões degenerativas e ausências da estriação cruzada acompanhada de leve infiltração de neutrófilos e células mononucleares dos cordeiros severamente afetados. As meninges dos cordeiros afetados apresentaram fusão de membranas com áreas focais de espessamento fibroso e debris necróticos. O vírus Akabane, um membro do gênero Orthobunyavirus, da família Bunyaviridae, causa anormalidades congênitas e artrogripose com hidrocéfalo e hidrocefalia em ruminantes e poderá vir a ser a causa do presente surto. Os autores recomendam a realização de novos estudos com investigações epidemiológicas e isolamento do agente causal. Contudo, outras causas de hidrocéfalo ou malformações cerebrais como as determinadas pelo vírus Schmallenberg, vírus da língua azul e vírus da doença de border, bem como de plantas teratogênicas que determinam a artrogripose, também deverão ser investigadas. As autoridades sanitárias deverão tomar medidas de prevenção e controle para bloquear a replicação do vírus em artrópodes vetores.(AU)

Congenital abnormalities and arthrogryposis in newly born lambs in Al Muthanna province Iraq. Suspicion of Akabane virus infection / Anormalidades congênitas e artrogripose em cordeiros recém-nascidos na província de Al Muthanna, Iraque. Suspeita de infecção pelo vírus Akabane

Akabane virus, a member of the Orthobunyavirus genus in the family Bunyaviridae, causes congenital abnormalities and arthrogryposis with hydrocephalus or hydroencephaly in ruminants. Tis study intends to describe the clinical signs, gross and histopathological features seen in 25 afected lambs in an outbreak of congenital arthrogryposis with hydrocephalus or hydranencephaly in Al-Muthanna governorate, Iraq afer a large number of stillbirths and musculoskeletal deformities from October 2017 to May 2018. Skeletal muscle hypoplasia was seen in the limbs of the afected lambs accompanied with severe arthrogryposis and gross visible brain malformations. In addition, fetal mummifcations, stillbirths, and dead lambs were also seen. Te most histopathological features in muscle fbers were degenerative lesions and absences of cross-striation accompanied with mild infltration of neutrophils and mononuclear cells in severely afected lambs. Te meninges of afected lambs revealed fused membranes with focal areas of fbrous thickenings and necrotic debris. In conclusion, according to clinical signs, gross and histopathological investigations, Akabane virus, a member of the Orthobunyavirus genus in the family Bunyaviridae, causes congenital abnormalities and arthrogryposis with hydrocephalus or hydroencephaly in ruminants and could be the cause of this outbreak, although future studies must be pe

O presente trabalho descreve os sinais clínicos, as lesões macroscópicas e os aspectos histológicos observados em 25 cordeiros acometidos em um surto de artrogripose congênita com hidrocéfalo ou hidrocefalia registrado no Iraque, governadoria Al-Muthama após a ocorrência de nascimentos prematuros e deformidades músculo-esqueléticas no período compreendido entre outubro de 2017 e maio de 2018. A hipoplasia músculo-esquelética foi observada nos membros dos cordeiros afetados, acompanhada de severa artrogripose e malformações cerebrais, grosseiras visíveis, além de mumifcações fetais, nascimentos prematuros e morte de cordeiros. Os principais aspectos histopatológicos nas fbras musculares foram lesões degenerativas e ausências da estriação cruzada acompanhada de leve infltração de neutróflos e células mononucleares dos cordeiros severamente afetados. As meninges dos cordeiros afetados apresentaram fusão de membranas com áreas focais de espessamento fbroso e debris necróticos. O vírus Akabane, um membro do gênero Orthobunyavirus, da família Bunyaviridae, causa anormalidades congênitas e artrogripose com hidrocéfalo e hidrocefalia em ruminantes e poderá vir a ser a causa do presente surto. Os autores recomendam a realização de novos estudos com investigações epidemiológicas e isolamento do agente causal. Contudo, outras causas de hidrocéfalo ou malformações cerebrais como a

Osseous malformation in calves and its relationship with ingestion of apple pomace in pregnant cows / Malformações ósseas em bezerros e sua relação com a ingestão de bagaço de maçã por vacas prenhes

Three outbreaks of osseous malformation in claves born of cows fed apple pomace throughout pregnancy are described. This study was carried out from historical surveys on properties where apple pomace was used in cattle feeding. The outbreaks occurred in the municipalities of Lages, Santa Catarina state, from 2007 to 2012, and Ipê, Rio Grande do Sul state, from 2011 to 2012. These calves presented bone deformity characterized mainly by arthrogryposis and chondrodysplasia of the anterior limbs. At necropsy, the observed changes were restricted to bending and thickening of the anterior limbs and skull. Microscopically, a disorganized, irregular, misaligned hypertrophic zone was observed in the humeral-radio-ulnar joints, in addition to absence of growth zone, thin bone trabeculae, and closed epiphyseal growth plate.(AU)

Descrevem-se 3 surtos de malformações ósseas em bezerros, nascidos de vacas prenhes alimentadas com bagaço de maçã. Estudos foram realizados a partir de levantamento de históricos em propriedades onde bagaço de maçã foi utilizado na alimentação de bovinos. Os surtos ocorreram nos municípios de Lages em Santa Catarina, de 2007 a 2012, e Ipê em Rio Grande do Sul, de 2011 a 2012. Dentre 20 e 69,2% dos bezerros apresentavam deformidade de membros, caracterizada principalmente por membros anteriores curvos e curtos. Na necropsia as alterações observadas restringiam-se ao encurvamento e engrossamento dos membros e do crânio. Microscopicamente nas articulações úmero-radio-ulnar, foi observado zona hipertrófica desorganizada, irregular e sem alinhamento, além de ausência da zona de crescimento e trabéculas ósseas finas e placa epifisária fechada.(AU)

Osseous malformation in calves and its relationship with ingestion of apple pomace in pregnant cows / Malformações ósseas em bezerros e sua relação com a ingestão de bagaço de maçã por vacas prenhes

Three outbreaks of osseous malformation in claves born of cows fed apple pomace throughout pregnancy are described. This study was carried out from historical surveys on properties where apple pomace was used in cattle feeding. The outbreaks occurred in the municipalities of Lages, Santa Catarina state, from 2007 to 2012, and Ipê, Rio Grande do Sul state, from 2011 to 2012. These calves presented bone deformity characterized mainly by arthrogryposis and chondrodysplasia of the anterior limbs. At necropsy, the observed changes were restricted to bending and thickening of the anterior limbs and skull. Microscopically, a disorganized, irregular, misaligned hypertrophic zone was observed in the humeral-radio-ulnar joints, in addition to absence of growth zone, thin bone trabeculae, and closed epiphyseal growth plate.(AU)

Descrevem-se 3 surtos de malformações ósseas em bezerros, nascidos de vacas prenhes alimentadas com bagaço de maçã. Estudos foram realizados a partir de levantamento de históricos em propriedades onde bagaço de maçã foi utilizado na alimentação de bovinos. Os surtos ocorreram nos municípios de Lages em Santa Catarina, de 2007 a 2012, e Ipê em Rio Grande do Sul, de 2011 a 2012. Dentre 20 e 69,2% dos bezerros apresentavam deformidade de membros, caracterizada principalmente por membros anteriores curvos e curtos. Na necropsia as alterações observadas restringiam-se ao encurvamento e engrossamento dos membros e do crânio. Microscopicamente nas articulações úmero-radio-ulnar, foi observado zona hipertrófica desorganizada, irregular e sem alinhamento, além de ausência da zona de crescimento e trabéculas ósseas finas e placa epifisária fechada.(AU)

Abortos, malformações congênitas e falhas reprodutivas espontâneas em caprinos causados na intoxicação pelas folhas da catingueira, Poincianella pyramidalis (sin. Caesalpinia pyramidalis)

ABSTRACT: The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of the leaves of the tree Poincianella pyramidalis (Tul.) L.P. Queiroz as a spontaneous cause of abortion, malformation and reproductive failure in goat herds in the Brazilian semiarid region. Epidemiological investigations, clinical evaluation of goats affected by malformation and necropsy of aborted fetuses was carried out on 12 farms located in the municipalities of Gurjão and Soledade, state of Paraíba, and on a farm located at the municipality of Pau dos Ferros, state of Rio Grande do Norte. The study considered only the farms where occurred predominantly P. pyramidalis among teratogenic plants. On the farm located in the municipality of Pau dos Ferros the occurrence of frequent abortion and birth of malformed goats, affecting 90% of pregnant goats, was observed. On the 12 farms belonging to the municipalities of Gurjão and Soledade, spontaneous cases of embryonic mortality, abortion and malformation occurred in 257 goats (41.1% of goats). Arthrogryposis was the main congenital malformation observed. Necropsy and histopathological exams of four fetuses and their placentas did not detect the presence of infectious agents. The cases of embryonic mortality, abortion and malformation were predominantly concentrated during the seasons of the year when pasture was scarce, but P. pyramidalis was available, due to the occurrence of pre-seasonal rains, which did not allow the pasture to germinate but P. pyramidalis to regrowth. The findings of this study confirm that this plant significantly interferes in the reproductive efficiency of semi-arid goat herds.

RESUMO: O objetivo deste estudo foi investigar os efeitos de folhas da espécie arbórea Poincianella pyramidalis (Tul.) L.P. Queiroz como causa espontânea de abortos, malformações e falhas reprodutivas em rebanhos caprinos no semiárido brasileiro. Foram realizadas investigações epidemiológicas, avaliações clínicas de caprinos acometidos por malformações e necropsias de fetos abortados em 12 propriedades localizadas nos municípios de Gurjão e Soledade, na Paraíba, e no município de Pau dos Ferros, Rio Grande do Norte. O estudo considerou apenas as propriedades que tinham basicamente a presença de P. pyramidalis entre as plantas teratogênicas. Na propriedade localizada no município de Pau dos Ferros foi verificada a ocorrência de grande número de abortos e o nascimento de cabritos malformados, acometendo 90% das cabras gestantes. Nas 12 propriedades pertencentes aos municípios de Gurjão e Soledade na Paraíba os casos espontâneos de mortalidade embrionária, abortos e malformações acometeram 257 cabras (41,1% das cabras dos rebanhos). A artrogripose foi a principal malformação congênita observada. Exames de necropsia e histopatológico de quatro fetos acompanhados das placentas não constataram a presença de agentes infecciosos. Os casos de perda embrionária, abortos e malformações foram concentrados predominantemente nas épocas do ano em que a pastagem estava escassa, mas havia disponibilidade de P. pyramidalis nas propriedades, devido à ocorrência das chuvas da pré-estação, que não permitiu a germinação de pasto, mas a rebrotação de P. pyramidalis. Os achados desse estudo comprovam que esta planta interfere consideravelmente na eficiência reprodutiva dos rebanhos caprinos do Semiárido.

Abortos, malformações congênitas e falhas reprodutivas espontâneas em caprinos causados na intoxicação pelas folhas da catingueira, Poincianella pyramidalis (sin. Caesalpinia pyramidalis) / Spontaneous abortion, congenital malformation and reproductive losses in goats due to poisoning by the leaves of Poincianella pyramidalis (syn. Caesalpinia pyramidalis)

O objetivo deste estudo foi investigar os efeitos de folhas da espécie arbórea Poincianella pyramidalis (Tul.) L.P. Queiroz como causa espontânea de abortos, malformações e falhas reprodutivas em rebanhos caprinos no semiárido brasileiro. Foram realizadas investigações epidemiológicas, avaliações clínicas de caprinos acometidos por malformações e necropsias de fetos abortados em 12 propriedades localizadas nos municípios de Gurjão e Soledade, na Paraíba, e no município de Pau dos Ferros, Rio Grande do Norte. O estudo considerou apenas as propriedades que tinham basicamente a presença de P. pyramidalis entre as plantas teratogênicas. Na propriedade localizada no município de Pau dos Ferros foi verificada a ocorrência de grande número de abortos e o nascimento de cabritos malformados, acometendo 90% das cabras gestantes. Nas 12 propriedades pertencentes aos municípios de Gurjão e Soledade na Paraíba os casos espontâneos de mortalidade embrionária, abortos e malformações acometeram 257 cabras (41,1% das cabras dos rebanhos). A artrogripose foi a principal malformação congênita observada. Exames de necropsia e histopatológico de quatro fetos acompanhados das placentas não constataram a presença de agentes infecciosos. Os casos de perda embrionária, abortos e malformações foram concentrados predominantemente nas épocas do ano em que a pastagem estava escassa, mas havia disponibilidade de P. pyramidalis nas propriedades, devido à ocorrência das chuvas da pré-estação, que não permitiu a germinação de pasto, mas a rebrotação de P. pyramidalis. Os achados desse estudo comprovam que esta planta interfere consideravelmente na eficiência reprodutiva dos rebanhos caprinos do Semiárido.(AU)

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of the leaves of the tree Poincianella pyramidalis (Tul.) L.P. Queiroz as a spontaneous cause of abortion, malformation and reproductive failure in goat herds in the Brazilian semiarid region. Epidemiological investigations, clinical evaluation of goats affected by malformation and necropsy of aborted fetuses was carried out on 12 farms located in the municipalities of Gurjão and Soledade, state of Paraíba, and on a farm located at the municipality of Pau dos Ferros, state of Rio Grande do Norte. The study considered only the farms where occurred predominantly P. pyramidalis among teratogenic plants. On the farm located in the municipality of Pau dos Ferros the occurrence of frequent abortion and birth of malformed goats, affecting 90% of pregnant goats, was observed. On the 12 farms belonging to the municipalities of Gurjão and Soledade, spontaneous cases of embryonic mortality, abortion and malformation occurred in 257 goats (41.1% of goats). Arthrogryposis was the main congenital malformation observed. Necropsy and histopathological exams of four fetuses and their placentas did not detect the presence of infectious agents. The cases of embryonic mortality, abortion and malformation were predominantly concentrated during the seasons of the year when pasture was scarce, but P. pyramidalis was available, due to the occurrence of pre-seasonal rains, which did not allow the pasture to germinate but P. pyramidalis to regrowth. The findings of this study confirm that this plant significantly interferes in the reproductive efficiency of semi-arid goat herds.(AU)

Abortos, malformações congênitas e falhas reprodutivas espontâneas em caprinos causados na intoxicação pelas folhas da catingueira, Poincianella pyramidalis (sin. Caesalpinia pyramidalis) / Spontaneous abortion, congenital malformation and reproductive losses in goats due to poisoning by the leaves of Poincianella pyramidalis (syn. Caesalpinia pyramidalis)

O objetivo deste estudo foi investigar os efeitos de folhas da espécie arbórea Poincianella pyramidalis (Tul.) L.P. Queiroz como causa espontânea de abortos, malformações e falhas reprodutivas em rebanhos caprinos no semiárido brasileiro. Foram realizadas investigações epidemiológicas, avaliações clínicas de caprinos acometidos por malformações e necropsias de fetos abortados em 12 propriedades localizadas nos municípios de Gurjão e Soledade, na Paraíba, e no município de Pau dos Ferros, Rio Grande do Norte. O estudo considerou apenas as propriedades que tinham basicamente a presença de P. pyramidalis entre as plantas teratogênicas. Na propriedade localizada no município de Pau dos Ferros foi verificada a ocorrência de grande número de abortos e o nascimento de cabritos malformados, acometendo 90% das cabras gestantes. Nas 12 propriedades pertencentes aos municípios de Gurjão e Soledade na Paraíba os casos espontâneos de mortalidade embrionária, abortos e malformações acometeram 257 cabras (41,1% das cabras dos rebanhos). A artrogripose foi a principal malformação congênita observada. Exames de necropsia e histopatológico de quatro fetos acompanhados das placentas não constataram a presença de agentes infecciosos. Os casos de perda embrionária, abortos e malformações foram concentrados predominantemente nas épocas do ano em que a pastagem estava escassa, mas havia disponibilidade de P. pyramidalis nas propriedades, devido à ocorrência das chuvas da pré-estação, que não permitiu a germinação de pasto, mas a rebrotação de P. pyramidalis. Os achados desse estudo comprovam que esta planta interfere consideravelmente na eficiência reprodutiva dos rebanhos caprinos do Semiárido.(AU)

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of the leaves of the tree Poincianella pyramidalis (Tul.) L.P. Queiroz as a spontaneous cause of abortion, malformation and reproductive failure in goat herds in the Brazilian semiarid region. Epidemiological investigations, clinical evaluation of goats affected by malformation and necropsy of aborted fetuses was carried out on 12 farms located in the municipalities of Gurjão and Soledade, state of Paraíba, and on a farm located at the municipality of Pau dos Ferros, state of Rio Grande do Norte. The study considered only the farms where occurred predominantly P. pyramidalis among teratogenic plants. On the farm located in the municipality of Pau dos Ferros the occurrence of frequent abortion and birth of malformed goats, affecting 90% of pregnant goats, was observed. On the 12 farms belonging to the municipalities of Gurjão and Soledade, spontaneous cases of embryonic mortality, abortion and malformation occurred in 257 goats (41.1% of goats). Arthrogryposis was the main congenital malformation observed. Necropsy and histopathological exams of four fetuses and their placentas did not detect the presence of infectious agents. The cases of embryonic mortality, abortion and malformation were predominantly concentrated during the seasons of the year when pasture was scarce, but P. pyramidalis was available, due to the occurrence of pre-seasonal rains, which did not allow the pasture to germinate but P. pyramidalis to regrowth. The findings of this study confirm that this plant significantly interferes in the reproductive efficiency of semi-arid goat herds.(AU)

Zika virus congenital syndrome: experimental models and clinical aspects

Viral infections have long been the cause of severe diseases to humans, increasing morbidity and mortality rates worldwide, either in rich or poor countries. Yellow fever virus, H1N1 virus, HIV, dengue virus, hepatitis B and C are well known threats to human health, being responsible for many million deaths annually, associated to a huge economic and social cost. In this context, a recently introduced flavivirus in South America, called Zika virus (ZIKV), led the WHO to declare in February 1st 2016 a warning on Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC). ZIKV is an arbovirus of the Flaviviridae family firstly isolated from sentinels Rhesus sp. monkeys at the Ziika forest in Uganda, Africa, in 1947. Lately, the virus has well adapted to the worldwide spread Aedes aegypti mosquito, the vector for DENV, CHIKV, YFV and many others. At first, it was not considered a threat to human health, but everything changed when a skyrocketing number of babies born with microcephaly and adults with Guillain-Barré syndrome were reported, mainly in northeastern Brazil. It is now well established that the virus is responsible for the so called congenital Zika syndrome (CZS), whose most dramatic features are microcephaly, arthrogryposis and ocular damage. Thus, in this review, we provide a brief discussion of these main clinical aspects of the CZS, correlating them with the experimental animal models described so far.(AU)

Zika virus congenital syndrome: experimental models and clinical aspects

Viral infections have long been the cause of severe diseases to humans, increasing morbidity and mortality rates worldwide, either in rich or poor countries. Yellow fever virus, H1N1 virus, HIV, dengue virus, hepatitis B and C are well known threats to human health, being responsible for many million deaths annually, associated to a huge economic and social cost. In this context, a recently introduced flavivirus in South America, called Zika virus (ZIKV), led the WHO to declare in February 1st 2016 a warning on Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC). ZIKV is an arbovirus of the Flaviviridae family firstly isolated from sentinels Rhesus sp. monkeys at the Ziika forest in Uganda, Africa, in 1947. Lately, the virus has well adapted to the worldwide spread Aedes aegypti mosquito, the vector for DENV, CHIKV, YFV and many others. At first, it was not considered a threat to human health, but everything changed when a skyrocketing number of babies born with microcephaly and adults with Guillain-Barré syndrome were reported, mainly in northeastern Brazil. It is now well established that the virus is responsible for the so called congenital Zika syndrome (CZS), whose most dramatic features are microcephaly, arthrogryposis and ocular damage. Thus, in this review, we provide a brief discussion of these main clinical aspects of the CZS, correlating them with the experimental animal models described so far.(AU)

Congenital multiple arthrogryposis in bovine / Artrogripose congênita múltipla em bovino

This report describes an anal atresia, anatomical urethra alteration (slightly caudal to the udder), thickened joints, and changes in the pelvis in a newborn Holstein cow. Visualization of the final portion of the rectum was not possible by perineal access and laparotomy through the right flank was performed in order for abdominal exploration and colostomy attempt. During the surgical procedure visceral rupture and malformations incompatible with life were observed, so surgeons opted for euthanasia and necropsy. Alterations were confirmed in the genitourinary and gastrointestinal tract. The non-formation of the anus caused dilation of the distal portion of the rectum with fecal content retention, which was drained to the body of the uterus, with the presence of meconium. This amount of anatomical and clinical changes were diagnosed as congenital multiple arthrogryposis.(AU)

Este relato de caso descreve atresia anal, alteração anatômica da uretra (inserida caudalmente ao úbere), articulações espessadas e alterações na pelve em um neonato bovino da raça Holandesa. A visualização da porção final do reto não foi possível pelo acesso perineal, e laparotomia através do flanco direito foi feita para exploração abdominal e realização da colostomia. Durante o procedimento cirúrgico, foram observadas ruptura visceral e malformações incompatíveis com a vida, então os cirurgiões optaram pela eutanásia e necropsia. Alterações foram confirmadas nos tratos geniturinário e gastrointestinal. A não formação do ânus causou dilatação da porção distal do reto com retenção fecal, desviando ao corpo do útero, o qual possibilitou a entrada de mecônio nesse compartimento, além de outras alterações devido à ingestão e alteração no trânsito gastrointestinal. Essa quantidade de alterações anatômicas e clínicas foi diagnosticada como artrogripose congênita múltipla.(AU)

Congenital multiple arthrogryposis in bovine / Artrogripose congênita múltipla em bovino

This report describes an anal atresia, anatomical urethra alteration (slightly caudal to the udder), thickened joints, and changes in the pelvis in a newborn Holstein cow. Visualization of the final portion of the rectum was not possible by perineal access and laparotomy through the right flank was performed in order for abdominal exploration and colostomy attempt. During the surgical procedure visceral rupture and malformations incompatible with life were observed, so surgeons opted for euthanasia and necropsy. Alterations were confirmed in the genitourinary and gastrointestinal tract. The non-formation of the anus caused dilation of the distal portion of the rectum with fecal content retention, which was drained to the body of the uterus, with the presence of meconium. This amount of anatomical and clinical changes were diagnosed as congenital multiple arthrogryposis.(AU)

Este relato de caso descreve atresia anal, alteração anatômica da uretra (inserida caudalmente ao úbere), articulações espessadas e alterações na pelve em um neonato bovino da raça Holandesa. A visualização da porção final do reto não foi possível pelo acesso perineal, e laparotomia através do flanco direito foi feita para exploração abdominal e realização da colostomia. Durante o procedimento cirúrgico, foram observadas ruptura visceral e malformações incompatíveis com a vida, então os cirurgiões optaram pela eutanásia e necropsia. Alterações foram confirmadas nos tratos geniturinário e gastrointestinal. A não formação do ânus causou dilatação da porção distal do reto com retenção fecal, desviando ao corpo do útero, o qual possibilitou a entrada de mecônio nesse compartimento, além de outras alterações devido à ingestão e alteração no trânsito gastrointestinal. Essa quantidade de alterações anatômicas e clínicas foi diagnosticada como artrogripose congênita múltipla.(AU)

Zika virus congenital syndrome: experimental models and clinical aspects

Abstract Viral infections have long been the cause of severe diseases to humans, increasing morbidity and mortality rates worldwide, either in rich or poor countries. Yellow fever virus, H1N1 virus, HIV, dengue virus, hepatitis B and C are well known threats to human health, being responsible for many million deaths annually, associated to a huge economic and social cost. In this context, a recently introduced flavivirus in South America, called Zika virus (ZIKV), led the WHO to declare in February 1st 2016 a warning on Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC). ZIKV is an arbovirus of the Flaviviridae family firstly isolated from sentinels Rhesus sp. monkeys at the Ziika forest in Uganda, Africa, in 1947. Lately, the virus has well adapted to the worldwide spread Aedes aegypti mosquito, the vector for DENV, CHIKV, YFV and many others. At first, it was not considered a threat to human health, but everything changed when a skyrocketing number of babies born with microcephaly and adults with Guillain-Barré syndrome were reported, mainly in northeastern Brazil. It is now well established that the virus is responsible for the so called congenital Zika syndrome (CZS), whose most dramatic features are microcephaly, arthrogryposis and ocular damage. Thus, in this review, we provide a brief discussion of these main clinical aspects of the CZS, correlating them with the experimental animal models described so far.

Malformações em pequenos ruminantes no semiárido da Bahia: aspectos epidemiológicos, clínico-patológicos e radiológicos / Malformations in small ruminants in the semi-arid region of Bahia: epidemiological, clinical-pathological and radiological aspects

O objetivo do presente trabalho é descrever os principais aspectos epidemiológicos, clínico-patológicos e radiológicos de malformações em pequenos ruminantes no semiárido do estado da Bahia. Foram realizadas visitas técnicas em 41 propriedades rurais no município de Uauá, Bahia, e em cada uma delas foi aplicado um questionário epidemiológico. Adicionalmente, quando se observavam casos de malformações, os animais eram avaliados vivos ou mortos. Foram necropsiados oito animais (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 e 8), e dois (7 e 8) foram submetidos a exame radiográfico. Sobre a alimentação do rebanho, 40 (97,56%) produtores rurais relataram o livre acesso de seus animais à vegetação nativa. Em relação à presença de Mimosa tenuiflora, 5 (12,2%) informaram que os animais tinham acesso à planta, 15 (36,6 %) disseram que tinham pouco contato, enquanto que 21 (51,2 %) relataram que não havia nenhum contato com a planta, pois essa espécie não estava presente em número relevante na região. Vinte e cinco dos 41 proprietários (60,98%) relataram o consumo de Poincianella pyramidalis. Foi constatado ainda que na maioria das propriedades havia muitas áreas invadidas por P. pyramidalis (80-90% da vegetação). As principais anormalidades relatadas pelos entrevistados em 36 propriedades foram artrogripose (87,80%), agnatia [22 (53,66%)], desvio lateral da mandíbula [11 (26,82%)], escoliose [6 (14,63%)], micrognatia [6 (14,63%)], fenda palatina [4 (9,75%)], crânio aumentado de tamanho [4 (9,75%)], microftalmia [2 (4,88%)], braquignatismo [1 (2,43%)], exoftalmia [1 (2,43%)] e deformidades múltiplas no crânio [1 (2,43%)]. No exame clínico de 13 animais com malformações, as principais alterações foram artrogripose bilateral dos membros torácicos (6/13); queilosquise (2/13); micrognatia (1/13) e má oclusão dentária (1/13). Considerando que algumas dessas malformações foram reproduzidas experimentalmente em caprinos pode-se sugerir P. pyramidalis como mais uma planta teratogênica para ruminantes no Nordeste do Brasil.(AU)

The aim of this paper is to describe the epidemiological, clinical-pathological and radiological aspects of malformations in small ruminants in the semi-arid state of Bahia. Technical visits were carried out in 41 rural properties in the city of Uauá, Bahia, and in each of them, an epidemiological questionnaire was applied. In addition, when malformations were observed, the animals were evaluated alive or dead. Eight animals (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 and 8) were necropsied, and two (7 and 8) were submitted to radiographic examination. Regarding the feeding of the herd, 40 (97.56%) farmers reported the free access of their animals to the native vegetation. Regarding the presence of Mimosa tenuiflora, 5 (12.2%) said that the animals had access to the plant, 15 (36.6%) was informed they had little contact, while 21 (51.2%) reported that there was no contact with the plant, because this species were not present in a relevant number in the region. Twenty five out of 41 owners (60.98%) reported the consumption of Poincianella pyramidalis. It was also verified that in the majority of the properties there were many areas invaded by P. pyramidalis (80-90% of the vegetation). The main abnormalities reported by the interviewees on 36 properties were arthrogryposis (87.80%), agnatia [22 (53.66%)], lateral deviation of the mandible [11 (26.82%)], scoliosis [6 (14.63%)], micrognathia [6 (14.63%)], cleft palate [4 (9.75%)], skull enlarged in size [4 (9.75%)], microphthalmia [2 (4.88%)], braquignatism [1 (2.43%)], exophthalmia [1 (2.43%)] and, multiple deformities in the skull [1 (2.43%)]. In the clinical examination of 13 animals with malformations, the main alterations were bilateral arthrogryposis of the thoracic limbs (6/13); cleft lip (2/13); micrognathia (1/13) and dental malocclusion (1/13). Considering that some of these malformations were reproduced experimentally in goats, it is possible to suggest P. pyramidalis as another teratogenic plant for ruminants in Northeast Brazil.(AU)