Anatomical description of the ventral and dorsal cervical rootlets in rats: A microsurgical study

Purpose: To describe the anatomical aspects of the cervical rootlets and to quantify the number of rootlets that compose C1 to T1. Methods: Twenty male rats were used in this study. The dorsal rootlets from C1 to T1 were analyzed. To study the ventral rootlets, the posterior root avulsion was performed using a microhook, allowing exposure of the ventral roots through manipulation of the denticulate ligament and arachnoid mater. The parameters analyzed were the number of ventral and dorsal rootlets by side and level. Results: The formation of the respective spinal nerve was observed in the spinal roots the union of the ventral and dorsal roots. In four animals the C1 spinal root had no dorsal and/or ventral contribution. There is no normal pattern of numerical normality of the dorsal and ventral rootlets. The average number of fascicles per root was 4.08, with a slight superiority on the left side. There was a slight superiority of the dorsal rootlets compared to the ventral rootlets. Conclusions: This investigation was the first to study cervical rootlets in rats. In 20% of the sample studied, the dorsal root of C1 was absent mainly on the left side. There is a nonlinear numerical increase from C1 to T1 in the rootlets. There is a numerical predominance of cervical fascicles on the left side, confronting several studies related to the functional predominance of right laterality, requiring new studies that correlate these variables.

Polymyositis associated with brainstem signs in a dog

Background: Polymyositis is a generalized inflammatory myopathy which can lead to rhabdomyolysis. This affection may have several origins, including degenerative, metabolic, autoimmune, infectious, inflammatory, ischemic, traumatic, by drug use, induced by toxins and also of idiopathic origin. Diagnosis is made with seric dosage, electrodiagnostic tests and muscle biopsy. Lesions in the rostral oblong medulla may affect the central vestibular system, and there may be signs such as opisthotonos, nystagmus, and strabismus. The aim of this report is to describe a case of a mixed breed dog with manifestation of polymyositis associated with brainstem signs of probable idiopathic origin. Case: A 5-year-old mixed breed male dog was attended with opisthotonos episodes for 2 days, and pelvic limbs extension and thoracic limbs flexion that lasted 10 to 20 min at intervals of approximately 1 h. The animal was anorexic and had also presented one episode of emesis. Upon neurological examination, ventromedial strabismus and Horner's syndrome was observed on the right side, besides vertical nystagmus, flaccid tetraparesis and absence of proprioception in the four limbs. Biochemical analyses revealed creatine kinase (CK) increased (2,433.9 UI/L - reference: 1.5-28.4 UI/L), and urinalysis showed dark color and presence of occult blood without, however, erythrocyturia. Electrocardiogram (ECG) showed QS wave and deviation of the electrical axis. Treatment with prednisolone (1 mg/kg, BID), phenobarbital (2 mg/kg, BID), maropitant citrate (1 mg/kg in 2 doses), and crystalloid fluid therapy (50 mL/kg/day) were prescribed. On the 4th day, the dog was more active and feeding without a tube, so it recommended keep the treatment at home. On the 10th day, the animal had proprioception present on the 4 limbs and normorexia. Biochemical analyses and urinalysis showed no alterations, but normochromic normochromic anemia with thrombocytopenia and leukocytosis by neutrophilia showed in blood count exam. PCR to Ehrlichia canis, Hepatozoon sp., and Babesia canis resulted negative. On the 15th day, blood count, biochemical analyses and urinalysis showed no alterations. Neurological examination revealed only positional vertical nystagmus. which remained as a sequel. Discussion: Polymyositis may be accompanied by rhabdomyolysis, characterized by acute muscle necrosis, increased CK and myoglobinuria. The animal had polymyositis of acute onset, with myoglobinuria and elevated CK values, whose presentation included myalgia and muscle weakness. In humans, polymyositis is accompanied by changes in electrocardiographic tracing without clinical alterations. In dogs, the first report that showed cardiac involvement was compatible with myocarditis. The changes in ECG in the present case was attributed to failure in myocardial electrical conduction. The patient also showed signs of brainstem and central vestibular system injuries. Stress myopathy, intoxication, snakebite, infectious, and metabolic diseases were discarded leading to a clinical suspicion as idiopathic origin. Similar to a published case, the patient of this report received symptomatic and supportive treatment, being discharged from the hospital 20 days after the onset of clinical signs. Thus, polymyositis may be accompanied by signs indicative of brainstem injury. Patients with rhabdomyolysis require intense monitoring due to the high risk of developing acute renal failure. Since no causative agent was identified, symptomatic treatment combined with the prevention of possible complications were fundamental for the maintenance of the animal's life.

Neuroprotection and immunomodulation by dimethyl fumarate and a heterologous fibrin biopolymer after ventral root avulsion and reimplantation

Background: Ventral root avulsion (VRA) is an experimental approach in which there is an abrupt separation of the motor roots from the surface of the spinal cord. As a result, most of the axotomized motoneurons degenerate by the second week after injury, and the significant loss of synapses and increased glial reaction triggers a chronic inflammatory state. Pharmacological treatment associated with root reimplantation is thought to overcome the degenerative effects of VRA. Therefore, treatment with dimethyl fumarate (DMF), a drug with neuroprotective and immunomodulatory effects, in combination with a heterologous fibrin sealant/biopolymer (FS), a biological glue, may improve the regenerative response. Methods: Adult female Lewis rats were subjected to VRA of L4-L6 roots followed by reimplantation and daily treatment with DMF for four weeks. Survival times were evaluated 1, 4 or 12 weeks after surgery. Neuronal survival assessed by Nissl staining, glial reactivity (anti-GFAP for astrocytes and anti-Iba-1 for microglia) and synapse preservation (anti-VGLUT1 for glutamatergic inputs and anti-GAD65 for GABAergic inputs) evaluated by immunofluorescence, gene expression (pro- and anti-inflammatory molecules) and motor function recovery were measured. Results: Treatment with DMF at a dose of 15 mg/kg was found to be neuroprotective and immunomodulatory because it preserved motoneurons and synapses and decreased astrogliosis and microglial reactions, as well as downregulated the expression of pro-inflammatory gene transcripts. Conclusion: The pharmacological benefit was further enhanced when associated with root reimplantation with FS, in which animals recovered at least 50% of motor function, showing the efficacy of employing multiple regenerative approaches following spinal cord root injury.(AU)

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

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

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

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

Myelography in calves: a comparative study between the contrast agents iopamidol and iohexol / Mielografia em bezerros: estudo comparativo entre os meios de contrastes iopamidol e ioexol

Due to the scarcity of myelogenous studies in cattle, the present study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and distribution of iopamidol and iohexol contrast agents in calves, in order to determine guidelines for obtaining diagnostic radiographs of spinal cord disorders in these animals. Ten healthy Holstein calves, seven days to two months of age, were divided into two groups, according to the contrast medium applied. Myelographic studies of the spine were performed with the calves in lateral recumbency, with radiographs repeated 20 times during a two-hour period. On the radiographs, the contrast medium was analyzed for opacity, detail of the image, distension of the medullary canal, and progression of the contrast line. After seven days, the myelographic studies were repeated, with the contrast media exchanged between the groups. There were no significant differences in the quality of the images and speed of the spinal column filling between the two contrast media. Furthermore, the best quality radiographic images were obtained six to eight minutes after injection of the contrast in the cervical spinal segment, 80 minutes in the thoracic, and 20 minutes in the lumbar, sacral, and cauda equina segments.(AU)

Devido à escassez de estudos mielográficos em bovinos e relatos de complicações no procedimento, o presente estudo teve por objetivo avaliar a eficácia e a distribuição dos meios de contraste iopamidol e ioexol em bezerros, a fim de nortear a melhor conduta para o diagnóstico de afecções vertebrais e medulares nesses animais. Foram utilizados 10 bezerros Holandeses, hígidos, com idade entre sete dias e dois meses, distribuídos em dois grupos, conforme o meio de contraste aplicado. O estudo mielográfico da coluna vertebral foi realizado na posição laterolateral, repetido em 20 momentos, durante o período de duas horas. Nas radiografias, analisou-se o meio de contraste quanto à opacidade, detalhes da imagem, distensão do canal medular e progressão da linha de contraste. Após sete dias, foi realizado o segundo período experimental, que compreendeu a troca do meio de contraste dentro de cada grupo. Não houve diferenças significativas em relação à qualidade da imagem e à velocidade do preenchimento da coluna medular entre os dois meios de contraste. A partir da administração dos meios de contraste, a obtenção de imagens radiográficas de melhor qualidade deu-se após seis a oito minutos no segmento medular cervical, 80 minutos no torácico e 20 minutos nos segmentos lombar, sacral e cauda equina.(AU)

Myelography in calves: a comparative study between the contrast agents iopamidol and iohexol / Mielografia em bezerros: estudo comparativo entre os meios de contrastes iopamidol e ioexol

Due to the scarcity of myelogenous studies in cattle, the present study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and distribution of iopamidol and iohexol contrast agents in calves, in order to determine guidelines for obtaining diagnostic radiographs of spinal cord disorders in these animals. Ten healthy Holstein calves, seven days to two months of age, were divided into two groups, according to the contrast medium applied. Myelographic studies of the spine were performed with the calves in lateral recumbency, with radiographs repeated 20 times during a two-hour period. On the radiographs, the contrast medium was analyzed for opacity, detail of the image, distension of the medullary canal, and progression of the contrast line. After seven days, the myelographic studies were repeated, with the contrast media exchanged between the groups. There were no significant differences in the quality of the images and speed of the spinal column filling between the two contrast media. Furthermore, the best quality radiographic images were obtained six to eight minutes after injection of the contrast in the cervical spinal segment, 80 minutes in the thoracic, and 20 minutes in the lumbar, sacral, and cauda equina segments.(AU)

Devido à escassez de estudos mielográficos em bovinos e relatos de complicações no procedimento, o presente estudo teve por objetivo avaliar a eficácia e a distribuição dos meios de contraste iopamidol e ioexol em bezerros, a fim de nortear a melhor conduta para o diagnóstico de afecções vertebrais e medulares nesses animais. Foram utilizados 10 bezerros Holandeses, hígidos, com idade entre sete dias e dois meses, distribuídos em dois grupos, conforme o meio de contraste aplicado. O estudo mielográfico da coluna vertebral foi realizado na posição laterolateral, repetido em 20 momentos, durante o período de duas horas. Nas radiografias, analisou-se o meio de contraste quanto à opacidade, detalhes da imagem, distensão do canal medular e progressão da linha de contraste. Após sete dias, foi realizado o segundo período experimental, que compreendeu a troca do meio de contraste dentro de cada grupo. Não houve diferenças significativas em relação à qualidade da imagem e à velocidade do preenchimento da coluna medular entre os dois meios de contraste. A partir da administração dos meios de contraste, a obtenção de imagens radiográficas de melhor qualidade deu-se após seis a oito minutos no segmento medular cervical, 80 minutos no torácico e 20 minutos nos segmentos lombar, sacral e cauda equina.(AU)

Anatomy of the spinal cord of Alouatta belzebul

The genus Alouatta hosts species popularly known as red-handed howler, presenting wide geographic distribution and being found in several biomes. The objective was describe the anatomy of spinal cord of Alouatta belzebul specimens, focusing on the topography of medullary cone, stressing the cervical and lumbar intumescences and cauda equina, to provide anatomical data and compare it with other species to assist in anesthetic and surgical procedures. Four animals were received for scientific research, post mortem, from the fauna rescue program of Hydroelectric Plant of Belo Monte, Pará, and they were fixed in 10% formaldehyde solution. Structures such as the medullary cone, cervical and lumbar intumescence, and cauda equina were photographed (Sony α200-10.2 mpx). After thawing, we measured the specimens and observed a size of 80 to 82 cm from head to toe. After the skin and musculature were removed, it was observed that the spine of all specimens presented 7 cervical, 13 thoracic, 5 lumbar and 3 fused sacral vertebrae. The spinal cord was exposed after the removal of vertebral arches, it has 22 cm length in all animals, presenting the cervical intumescence between C3 and C6 vertebrae, with average of 2.2 cm and lumbar intumescence between T11 and T12 vertebrae, with average of 1.65 cm. The medullary cone is located between T12 and L1 vertebrae, with average of 1.5 cm, and the cauda equina between L1 and S3, with an average of 15 cm. This study has an important role as the basis for epidural anesthesia in the species.

Anatomy of the spinal cord of Alouatta belzebul

The genus Alouatta hosts species popularly known as red-handed howler, presenting wide geographic distribution and being found in several biomes. The objective was describe the anatomy of spinal cord of Alouatta belzebul specimens, focusing on the topography of medullary cone, stressing the cervical and lumbar intumescences and cauda equina, to provide anatomical data and compare it with other species to assist in anesthetic and surgical procedures. Four animals were received for scientific research, post mortem, from the fauna rescue program of Hydroelectric Plant of Belo Monte, Pará, and they were fixed in 10% formaldehyde solution. Structures such as the medullary cone, cervical and lumbar intumescence, and cauda equina were photographed (Sony α200-10.2 mpx). After thawing, we measured the specimens and observed a size of 80 to 82 cm from head to toe. After the skin and musculature were removed, it was observed that the spine of all specimens presented 7 cervical, 13 thoracic, 5 lumbar and 3 fused sacral vertebrae. The spinal cord was exposed after the removal of vertebral arches, it has 22 cm length in all animals, presenting the cervical intumescence between C3 and C6 vertebrae, with average of 2.2 cm and lumbar intumescence between T11 and T12 vertebrae, with average of 1.65 cm. The medullary cone is located between T12 and L1 vertebrae, with average of 1.5 cm, and the cauda equina between L1 and S3, with an average of 15 cm. This study has an important role as the basis for epidural anesthesia in the species.(AU)

Placement of vertebral screws for spinal stabilization and distraction in a dog with disc-associate cervical spondylomyelopathy: case report / Uso de parafusos vertebrais para distração e estabilização espinhal em um cão com espondilomielopatia cervical disco-associada: relato de caso

A 10-year-old male Rottweiler was evaluated for a 2-month history of recurrent forelimb weakness. Neurologic examination revealed proprioceptive ataxia, tetraparesis and moderate cervical pain. Disk-associated cervical spondylomyelopathy (CSM) with static lesion at C3-4 was diagnosed based on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The dog was surgically treated by a ventral slot procedure and distraction-stabilization of the vertebral bodies through insertion of vertebral screws with transverse connective bars. The patient had favorable clinical outcome. Neurologic assessment performed 120 days after surgery showed absence of neurologic defects. Radiographic assessment performed at the same time indicated adequate spinal cord decompression although vertebral fusion was not achieved. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first case of distraction-stabilization with vertebral (pedicle) screws to treat CSM in a dog. The treatment was well tolerated with no complications and excellent outcome and can be a viable option for this condition.(AU)

Um cão, macho, adulto, Rotweiller de 10 anos de idade, foi atendido com histórico de claudicação do membro torácico esquerdo com evolução para fraqueza havia aproximadamente dois meses. Ao exame neurológico, observou-se ataxia proprioceptiva nos quatro membros e dor cervical moderada. Mediante ressonância magnética, espondilomielopatia cervical disco-associada com a característica estática da compressão C3-C4 foi diagnosticada. Realizou-se cirurgia descompressiva por meio de slot ventral e estabilização-distração com o uso de parafusos vertebrais e barras conectoras. O paciente apresentou evolução clínica favorável do quadro. A evolução foi progressiva e, no último retorno, 120 dias após a cirurgia, não apresentou nenhum déficit neurológico ou sinal de falha do implante nas imagens radiográficas; no entanto, não foi evidenciada fusão vertebral. Pelo conhecimento dos autores, esse é o primeiro relato de EMC disco-associada tratada por distração e estabilização com parafusos vertebrais (pediculares) em um cão. A fixação espinhal por meio do uso de parafusos vertebrais foi uma alternativa viável no caso apresentado.(AU)

Placement of vertebral screws for spinal stabilization and distraction in a dog with disc-associate cervical spondylomyelopathy: case report / Uso de parafusos vertebrais para distração e estabilização espinhal em um cão com espondilomielopatia cervical disco-associada: relato de caso

A 10-year-old male Rottweiler was evaluated for a 2-month history of recurrent forelimb weakness. Neurologic examination revealed proprioceptive ataxia, tetraparesis and moderate cervical pain. Disk-associated cervical spondylomyelopathy (CSM) with static lesion at C3-4 was diagnosed based on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The dog was surgically treated by a ventral slot procedure and distraction-stabilization of the vertebral bodies through insertion of vertebral screws with transverse connective bars. The patient had favorable clinical outcome. Neurologic assessment performed 120 days after surgery showed absence of neurologic defects. Radiographic assessment performed at the same time indicated adequate spinal cord decompression although vertebral fusion was not achieved. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first case of distraction-stabilization with vertebral (pedicle) screws to treat CSM in a dog. The treatment was well tolerated with no complications and excellent outcome and can be a viable option for this condition.(AU)

Um cão, macho, adulto, Rotweiller de 10 anos de idade, foi atendido com histórico de claudicação do membro torácico esquerdo com evolução para fraqueza havia aproximadamente dois meses. Ao exame neurológico, observou-se ataxia proprioceptiva nos quatro membros e dor cervical moderada. Mediante ressonância magnética, espondilomielopatia cervical disco-associada com a característica estática da compressão C3-C4 foi diagnosticada. Realizou-se cirurgia descompressiva por meio de slot ventral e estabilização-distração com o uso de parafusos vertebrais e barras conectoras. O paciente apresentou evolução clínica favorável do quadro. A evolução foi progressiva e, no último retorno, 120 dias após a cirurgia, não apresentou nenhum déficit neurológico ou sinal de falha do implante nas imagens radiográficas; no entanto, não foi evidenciada fusão vertebral. Pelo conhecimento dos autores, esse é o primeiro relato de EMC disco-associada tratada por distração e estabilização com parafusos vertebrais (pediculares) em um cão. A fixação espinhal por meio do uso de parafusos vertebrais foi uma alternativa viável no caso apresentado.(AU)

Spinal neoplasm in dogs

Background: Various diseases can cause spinal cord disorders in dogs including neoplasia of the nervous system, which are more common in mature and older animals. Some breeds, as brachycephalics, are more predisposed for certain types of tumors. Spinal neoplasia can be categorized as primary or secondary tumors, and still can be grouped in extradural, intradural/extramedullary or intramedullary. The aim of this study was to investigate the signalment, neurological syndrome, type and source of the mass, presence of metastases, and clinical outcomes in 28 dogs diagnosed with spinal tumors. Materials, Methods & Results: This study included 28 dogs, and in 20 cases, spinal neoplasia was confirmed by necropsy, biopsy, histopathology, and immunohistochemistry. In the other eight animals, the presumptive diagnosis was based on clinical and neurological signs and by observing changes in plain radiographs of the spine, chest radiographs, and myelography. The location of the lesion was established as cervical, cervicothoracic, thoracolumbar, or lumbosacral, and the lesion was determined to be multifocal when clinical signs appeared in more than one location. Spinal cord injury was additionally classified as unilateral, bilateral, symmetrical, or asymmetrical. The following complementary examinations were performed based on the clinical suspicion, indications, and availability of the [...](AU)

Spinal neoplasm in dogs

Background: Various diseases can cause spinal cord disorders in dogs including neoplasia of the nervous system, which are more common in mature and older animals. Some breeds, as brachycephalics, are more predisposed for certain types of tumors. Spinal neoplasia can be categorized as primary or secondary tumors, and still can be grouped in extradural, intradural/extramedullary or intramedullary. The aim of this study was to investigate the signalment, neurological syndrome, type and source of the mass, presence of metastases, and clinical outcomes in 28 dogs diagnosed with spinal tumors. Materials, Methods & Results: This study included 28 dogs, and in 20 cases, spinal neoplasia was confirmed by necropsy, biopsy, histopathology, and immunohistochemistry. In the other eight animals, the presumptive diagnosis was based on clinical and neurological signs and by observing changes in plain radiographs of the spine, chest radiographs, and myelography. The location of the lesion was established as cervical, cervicothoracic, thoracolumbar, or lumbosacral, and the lesion was determined to be multifocal when clinical signs appeared in more than one location. Spinal cord injury was additionally classified as unilateral, bilateral, symmetrical, or asymmetrical. The following complementary examinations were performed based on the clinical suspicion, indications, and availability of the [...]

Granulomatous leptomeningitis in a goat associated with infection by Cryptococcus neoformans

A case of granulomatous leptomeningitis caused by Cryptococcus neoformans is described in a 2-year-old mixed-breed, female goat which presented acute neurological signs including ataxia, nystagmus, bilateral blindness, opisthotonus, hyperesthesia, and spastic paresis of forelimbs. Granulomatous inflammation was detected in the pia arachnoid covering the frontal, parietal and occipital lobes of the telencephalon; cerebellum, thalamus, mesencephalon, pons, medulla, and cervical and thoracolumbar segments of the spinal cord. Yeast-like organisms with morphology compatible with Cryptococcus spp. were observed. A 350 base pair sequence was amplified from DNA extracted from the formalin fixed paraffin embedded (FFPE) tissue. The amplified sequence matched 100% Cryptococcus neoformans. It is suggested that cryptococcal meningitis should be included in the differential diagnosis list of goat diseases with neurological signs such as ataxia, opisthotonus, nystagmus, hyperesthesia and spastic paresis.

Granulomatous leptomeningitis in a goat associated with infection by Cryptococcus neoformans

A case of granulomatous leptomeningitis caused by Cryptococcus neoformans is described in a 2-year-old mixed-breed, female goat which presented acute neurological signs including ataxia, nystagmus, bilateral blindness, opisthotonus, hyperesthesia, and spastic paresis of forelimbs. Granulomatous inflammation was detected in the pia arachnoid covering the frontal, parietal and occipital lobes of the telencephalon; cerebellum, thalamus, mesencephalon, pons, medulla, and cervical and thoracolumbar segments of the spinal cord. Yeast-like organisms with morphology compatible with Cryptococcus spp. were observed. A 350 base pair sequence was amplified from DNA extracted from the formalin fixed paraffin embedded (FFPE) tissue. The amplified sequence matched 100% Cryptococcus neoformans. It is suggested that cryptococcal meningitis should be included in the differential diagnosis list of goat diseases with neurological signs such as ataxia, opisthotonus, nystagmus, hyperesthesia and spastic paresis.(AU)

Toxoplasmosis: morphological and morphometric evaluation of spinal cord neurons from nonsymptomatic seropositive dogs / Toxoplasmose: avaliação morfológica e morfométrica dos neurônios da medula espinhal de cães soropositivos assintomáticos

The aim of this work was to analyze the neuron morphology and morphometry of cervical, thoracic and lumbar areas of nonsymptomatic seropositive dogs spinal cord for toxoplasmosis. Twenty indefinite-breed adult dogs were used; ten dogs were healthy, with negative serology for toxoplasmosis, and were used as the control group (group 1), and ten dogs were nonsymptomatic but seropositive for toxoplasmosis (group 2).  After the microtomy, with interval of 100 micrometers (µm), the histological 5-µm-thick cuts were dyed by hematoxylin-eosin and Masson"s trichrome techniques. The glass slides were analyzed under light microscope to examine the neuron morphology. The parameters considered for the morphometric analysis were area, perimeter, maximum diameter, minimum diameter and shape factor of cytoplasm and nucleus of neuron. The results were statistically analyzed by Students t test at 5% probability level. The morphological characteristics between the two groups were similar and according to literature. The morphometric results showed that there were changes in neurons size and structure, and increase and loss of star shape were noticed in seropositive animals. The results suggest that the neurons of these dogs, yet nonsymptomatic, can have lost their conductor function.

Este trabalho objetivou analisar a morfologia e a morfometria dos neurônios das regiões cervical, torácica e lombar da medula espinhal de cães assintomáticos soropositivos para toxoplasmose. Utilizaram-se 20 cães sem raça definida, adultos, sendo dez cães hígidos, com sorologia negativa, utilizados como controle (grupo 1) e dez cães assintomáticos mas soropositivos para toxoplasmose (grupo 2). Após microtomia semi-seriada, com intervalos de 100 micrômetros (µm), os cortes histológicos de medula espinhal, à espessura de 5 µm, foram corados pelas técnicas da hematoxilina-eosina e do tricrômico de Masson. As lâminas foram analisadas à microscopia de luz para verificar a morfologia dos neurônios. Para o estudo morfométrico, os parâmetros analisados foram: área, perímetro, diâmetro máximo, diâmetro mínimo e fator de forma do citoplasma e núcleo dos neurônios. Os resultados obtidos foram analisados estatisticamente, mediante o teste t de Student ao nível de 5% de probabilidade. As características morfológicas entre os dois grupos foram semelhantes e em conformidade com a literatura. Os resultados morfométricos demonstraram que há alteração no tamanho e estrutura dos neurônios, com aumento e perda do formato estrelado nos animais soropositivos. Os resultados sugerem que os neurônios destes cães, ainda que assintomáticos, possam ter perdido sua função condutora.

Toxoplasmosis: morphological and morphometric evaluation of spinal cord neurons from nonsymptomatic seropositive dogs / Toxoplasmose: avaliação morfológica e morfométrica dos neurônios da medula espinhal de cães soropositivos assintomáticos

The aim of this work was to analyze the neuron morphology and morphometry of cervical, thoracic and lumbar areas of nonsymptomatic seropositive dogs spinal cord for toxoplasmosis. Twenty indefinite-breed adult dogs were used; ten dogs were healthy, with negative serology for toxoplasmosis, and were used as the control group (group 1), and ten dogs were nonsymptomatic but seropositive for toxoplasmosis (group 2).  After the microtomy, with interval of 100 micrometers (µm), the histological 5-µm-thick cuts were dyed by hematoxylin-eosin and Masson"s trichrome techniques. The glass slides were analyzed under light microscope to examine the neuron morphology. The parameters considered for the morphometric analysis were area, perimeter, maximum diameter, minimum diameter and shape factor of cytoplasm and nucleus of neuron. The results were statistically analyzed by Students t test at 5% probability level. The morphological characteristics between the two groups were similar and according to literature. The morphometric results showed that there were changes in neurons size and structure, and increase and loss of star shape were noticed in seropositive animals. The results suggest that the neurons of these dogs, yet nonsymptomatic, can have lost their conductor function.(AU)

Este trabalho objetivou analisar a morfologia e a morfometria dos neurônios das regiões cervical, torácica e lombar da medula espinhal de cães assintomáticos soropositivos para toxoplasmose. Utilizaram-se 20 cães sem raça definida, adultos, sendo dez cães hígidos, com sorologia negativa, utilizados como controle (grupo 1) e dez cães assintomáticos mas soropositivos para toxoplasmose (grupo 2). Após microtomia semi-seriada, com intervalos de 100 micrômetros (µm), os cortes histológicos de medula espinhal, à espessura de 5 µm, foram corados pelas técnicas da hematoxilina-eosina e do tricrômico de Masson. As lâminas foram analisadas à microscopia de luz para verificar a morfologia dos neurônios. Para o estudo morfométrico, os parâmetros analisados foram: área, perímetro, diâmetro máximo, diâmetro mínimo e fator de forma do citoplasma e núcleo dos neurônios. Os resultados obtidos foram analisados estatisticamente, mediante o teste t de Student ao nível de 5% de probabilidade. As características morfológicas entre os dois grupos foram semelhantes e em conformidade com a literatura. Os resultados morfométricos demonstraram que há alteração no tamanho e estrutura dos neurônios, com aumento e perda do formato estrelado nos animais soropositivos. Os resultados sugerem que os neurônios destes cães, ainda que assintomáticos, possam ter perdido sua função condutora.(AU)

Topografia vertebromedular de irara (Eira barbara Linnaeus, 1758) / Topographic anatomy of spinal cord in tayra (Eira barbara Linnaeus, 1758)

Um cadáver macho, adulto de irara (Eira barbara) foi cedido pelo Centro de Triagem de Animais Silvestres (Cetas), localizado em Salvador/Bahia, ao Setor de Anatomia Veterinária da Escola de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia da Universidade Federal da Bahia. Trata-se de um mamífero carnívoro que pertence à Família Mustelidae e Subfamília Mustelinae que contém o Gênero Eira, representado apenas pela Espécie Eira barbara. Objetivamos a investigação da topografia vertebromedular do espécime e assim verificar a relação da medula espinal com o canal vertebral; a identificação, origem, emergência e quantificação dos nervos espinhais relacionados com a medula espinal. Pesquisa número 43245-1 autorizada pelo Sistema de Autorização e Informação em Biodiversidade (Sisbio-ICMBio/IBAMA). O exemplar foi fixado em solução de formaldeído a 10% e posteriormente dissecado e radiografado. Foram identificados oito pares de nervos espinhais cervicais, quatorze torácicos e na porção lombossacral da medula espinhal seis nervos espinais lombares, três sacrais e mais de três nervos espinhais caudais. O término da medula espinal ocorreu no nível quinta vértebra lombar. Os oito segmentos medulares cervicais localizaram-se entre a primeira e sétima vértebras cervicais. Os quatorze nervos espinais torácicos originaram-se na porção cranial das vértebras respectivas. Os segmentos medulares lombares, sacrais e caudais restringiram-se à região lombar da coluna vertebral. O deslocamento cranial dos segmentos medulares foi observado no oitavo cervical, terceiro, quarto e quinto lombares e todos os segmentos sacrais e caudais. As informações obtidas poderão ser utilizadas para análises comparativas com as demais espécies e com a adoção de medidas que visem proporcionar o bem-estar animal e a preservação da espécie.(AU)

An adult male cadaver of a tayra (Eira barbara) was given by the Center of Triage of Wild Animals (Cetas) in Salvador, Bahia, to the Sector of Veterinary Anatomy, College of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciernce at the Federal University of Bahia. Eira barbara is a carnivorous mammal that belongs to the family Mustelidae, subfamily Mustelinae, and is the only species in the genus Eira. The objective of this study was to investigate the vertebro-medullary topography of the specimen and verify the relationship of the spinal chord with the spinal canal, as well as to identify and find the origin, emergence and number of spinal nerves related to the spinal chord. This study was authorized by the Biodiversity Authorization and Information System (Sisbio-ICMBio/IBAMA nr.43245-1). The specimen was fixed in a 10% solution of formaldehyde and then dissected and radiographed. Eight pairs of cervical spinal nerves and fourteen thoracic nerves were identified, as well as, in the lumbosacral portion of the spinal cord, six lumbar spinal nerves, three sacral, and more than three caudal spinal nerves. The end of the spinal chord was at the level of the fifth lumbar vertebra. The eight cervical medullary segments were found between the first and seventh cervical vertebrae. The fourteen thoracic spinal nerves originated in the cranial portion of the respective vertebrae. The medullary lumbar, sacral and caudal segments were found in the lumbar region of the backbone. The cranial displacement of the medullary segments was observed in the 8th cervical, 3rd, 4th and 5th lumbar vertebrae and all of the sacral and caudal segments. The information obtained could be used for comparative analyses with other species, to better understand the animal and for the preservation of the species.(AU)

Subluxação atlantoaxial traumática em um cão: relato de caso / Atlantoaxial subluxation traumatic in a dog: a case report

The objective was to report the clinical treatment of traumatic atlantoaxial subluxation in a patient canine Veterinary Hospital School Integrated Campo Mourão, PR. Was attended to a male dog breed Yorkshire, six months old, weighing 1kg, with a history of trauma in cervical region, where the neck was attached to the car door, then starting from seizures. Upon clinical and physical, radiography examination came to the diagnosis of simple fracture, complete, transverse and closed on the left wing of the atlas and atlantoaxial subluxation. The patient was admitted and clinical treatment was instituted by immobilization of the neck, restricted movement and use of meloxicam in the initial single dose of 0.2 mg kg-1, is then reduced to 0.1 mg kg-1 once a day, tramadol hydrochloride 4 mg kg-1 four time a day, manitol 1mg kg-1 and 1.5 mg kg-1 dexamethasone twice, all by intravenous route. On the third day of hospitalization was withdrawn medication with dexamethasone and the fourth day the animal had significant improvement and was discharged, continuing with home treatment, except mannitol. After 20 days the patient returned to the Veterinary Hospital of the School Integrated with clinical improvement and was discharged from care. Clinical treatment proved very effective in the correction of cervical instability allowing a satisfactory motor recovery.

Objetivou-se com este estudo relatar o tratamento clínico de subluxação atlantoaxial traumática de um paciente canino do Hospital Veterinário da Faculdade Integrado de Campo Mourão-PR. O paciente atendido foi um cão, macho, de raça Yorkshire, seis meses de idade, pesando 1kg, com histórico de trauma em região cervical, onde o pescoço foi preso à porta do carro, iniciando a partir de então episódios convulsivos. Mediante exame clínico-físico e radiográfico chegou-se ao diagnóstico de fratura simples, completa, transversa e fechada na asa esquerda do atlas e subluxação atlantoaxial. O paciente foi internado e instituiu-se tratamento clínico por meio de imobilização da região cervical, restrição de movimento e utilização de meloxican na dose inicial única de 0,2 mg/kg, reduzindo-se em seguida para 0,1mg/kg SID, cloridrato de tramadol 4 mg/kg QID, manitol 1mg/kg e dexametasona 1,5 mg/kg, BID, todos pela via intravenosa. Ao terceiro dia de internamento foi retirada a medicação com dexametasona e ao quarto dia o animal teve significativa melhora, recebendo alta hospitalar, e instruído a dar continuidade ao tratamento em domicílio, exceto o manitol. Após 20 dias o paciente retornou ao Hospital Veterinário da Faculdade Integrado com melhora clínica evidente, recebendo alta médica. O tratamento clínico instituído mostrou-se eficaz no controle da sintomatologia anteriormente apresentada, bem como na prevenção de novos episódios.

Subluxação atlantoaxial traumática em um cão: relato de caso / Atlantoaxial subluxation traumatic in a dog: a case report

The objective was to report the clinical treatment of traumatic atlantoaxial subluxation in a patient canine Veterinary Hospital School Integrated Campo Mourão, PR. Was attended to a male dog breed Yorkshire, six months old, weighing 1kg, with a history of trauma in cervical region, where the neck was attached to the car door, then starting from seizures. Upon clinical and physical, radiography examination came to the diagnosis of simple fracture, complete, transverse and closed on the left wing of the atlas and atlantoaxial subluxation. The patient was admitted and clinical treatment was instituted by immobilization of the neck, restricted movement and use of meloxicam in the initial single dose of 0.2 mg kg-1, is then reduced to 0.1 mg kg-1 once a day, tramadol hydrochloride 4 mg kg-1 four time a day, manitol 1mg kg-1 and 1.5 mg kg-1 dexamethasone twice, all by intravenous route. On the third day of hospitalization was withdrawn medication with dexamethasone and the fourth day the animal had significant improvement and was discharged, continuing with home treatment, except mannitol. After 20 days the patient returned to the Veterinary Hospital of the School Integrated with clinical improvement and was discharged from care. Clinical treatment proved very effective in the correction of cervical instability allowing a satisfactory motor recovery.(AU)

Objetivou-se com este estudo relatar o tratamento clínico de subluxação atlantoaxial traumática de um paciente canino do Hospital Veterinário da Faculdade Integrado de Campo Mourão-PR. O paciente atendido foi um cão, macho, de raça Yorkshire, seis meses de idade, pesando 1kg, com histórico de trauma em região cervical, onde o pescoço foi preso à porta do carro, iniciando a partir de então episódios convulsivos. Mediante exame clínico-físico e radiográfico chegou-se ao diagnóstico de fratura simples, completa, transversa e fechada na asa esquerda do atlas e subluxação atlantoaxial. O paciente foi internado e instituiu-se tratamento clínico por meio de imobilização da região cervical, restrição de movimento e utilização de meloxican na dose inicial única de 0,2 mg/kg, reduzindo-se em seguida para 0,1mg/kg SID, cloridrato de tramadol 4 mg/kg QID, manitol 1mg/kg e dexametasona 1,5 mg/kg, BID, todos pela via intravenosa. Ao terceiro dia de internamento foi retirada a medicação com dexametasona e ao quarto dia o animal teve significativa melhora, recebendo alta hospitalar, e instruído a dar continuidade ao tratamento em domicílio, exceto o manitol. Após 20 dias o paciente retornou ao Hospital Veterinário da Faculdade Integrado com melhora clínica evidente, recebendo alta médica. O tratamento clínico instituído mostrou-se eficaz no controle da sintomatologia anteriormente apresentada, bem como na prevenção de novos episódios.(AU)