Relato de caso: tratamento de ferida perfurante no dígito de equino / Case report: treatment of a perforating wound in the equine digit / Caso clínico: tratamiento de una herida perforante en el dedo equino

Apesar dos avanços na medicina equina, certas condições de claudicação ainda representam um desafio significativo para os clínicos veterinários, especialmente quando se trata de afecções distais, como feridas perfurantes no casco do equino. Essas lesões podem afetar estruturas vitais, incluindo a articulação interfalângica distal, o osso navicular, a bolsa do osso navicular, o tendão flexor digital profundo, a bainha sinovial e a terceira falange. O presente estudo tem como objetivo esclarecer que um diagnóstico mais rápido e preciso das estruturas afetadas e do grau de lesões resultantes leva a um tratamento mais eficaz. Além disso, foi demonstrado que o tratamento convencional com antibióticos e anti-inflamatórios não esteroides sistêmicos -AINEs,em combinação com terapias alternativas, como campo magnético pulsado, laser classe III e Ozonioterapia, apresentou um efeito sinérgico com resultados excelentes.(AU)

Despite advances in equine medicine, certain claudication conditions still pose a significant challenge to veterinary clinicians, especially when it comes to distal affections such as puncture wounds on the equine hoof. These injuries can affect vital structures, including the distal interphalangeal joint, navicular bone, navicular bone pouch, deep digital flexor tendon, synovial sheath, and third phalanx. The present study aims to clarify that a more rapid and accurate diagnosis of the affected structures and the resulting degree of injury leads to more effective treatment. Furthermore, it was shown that conventional treatment with antibiotics and systemic non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs -NSAIDs, in combination with alternative therapies, such as pulsed magnetic field, class III laser and ozone therapy, presented a synergistic effect with excellent results.(AU)

A pesar de los avances en medicina equina, ciertas afecciones claudicantes siguen planteando un reto importante a los clínicos veterinarios, especialmente cuando se trata de afecciones distales como las heridas perforantes en el casco equino. Estas lesiones pueden afectar a estructuras vitales, como la articulación interfalángica distal, el hueso navicular, la bolsa del hueso navicular, el tendón flexor digital profundo, la vaina sinovial y la tercera falange. El presente estudio pretende aclarar que un diagnóstico más rápido y preciso de las estructuras afectadas y del grado de lesión resultante conduce a un tratamiento más eficaz. Además, se demostró que el tratamiento convencional con antibióticos y antiinflamatorios no esteroideos sistémicos -AINE, en combinación con terapias alternativas, como el campo magnético pulsado, el láser de clase III y la ozonoterapia, presentaban un efecto sinérgico con excelentes resultados.(AU)

Prevalence and severity of claw lesions in sows in intensive systems in Brazil / Prevalência e severidade de lesões de casco em porcas confinadas no Brasil

Swines raised in intensive systems are highly susceptible to claw lesions. Moderate to severe lesions trigger an inflammatory response, causing pain and impairing reproductive and economic performance. Foot lesions in sows can cause considerable losses owing to reduced fertility and herd longevity. Proper diagnosis is an important step in correcting this problem; however, the seriousness of the impact of these lesions on swine herds remains unclear to most farm owners. Health monitoring has become an essential tool for veterinarians because it enables the detection of disease incidence and severity. In this study, we assessed claw lesions in sows reared under an intensive system to ascertain the prevalence and severity of lesions in Brazilian herds. The hind limb claws of 2,660 sows from 30 farms were examined for the following lesions: heel overgrowth and erosion (HOE), heel-sole cracks, white line lesions (WL), horizontal and vertical cracks in the toe wall, overgrown toes, and overgrown or missing dew claws. Claws were classified as normal (score = 0), mild (score = 1), moderate (score = 2), or severe (score = 3). At least one type of lesion was observed in 99.1% of the sows, whereas 29.7% displayed severe lesions. HOE was the most common lesion (89.9% of sows) and severe WL was observed in 16.8% of the sows. Lesions increased in prevalence and severity with parity, except for WL. In young females, lesions on the volar surface were more common than those on cracked walls or overgrown toes, which should be considered when selecting gilts for breeding. A high prevalence of claw lesions was observed in Brazilian sows. Monitoring of these lesions is fast and simple. Regular monitoring provides information on claw health in a herd over time, allowing us to take measures to control and treat claw lesions, avoiding worsening of the problem, early culling of animals, and the associated productive and economic losses.

Suínos criados em sistemas intensivos são altamente suscetíveis a lesões de casco. Quando moderadas a graves, essas lesões desencadeiam uma resposta inflamatória, causando dor e prejudicando o desempenho reprodutivo e econômico. Em porcas, as lesões nos cascos podem causar consideráveis perdas devido à redução da fertilidade e longevidade do rebanho. O diagnóstico adequado é um dos passos mais importantes para corrigir esse problema, mas a gravidade do impacto dessas lesões nos rebanhos suínos passa despercebida na maioria das propriedades. O monitoramento sanitário tornou-se uma ferramenta essencial para os médicos veterinários, pois possibilita a detecção da incidência e gravidade da doença. O presente estudo utilizou um método de avaliação de lesões de casco em porcas criadas em sistema intensivo para verificar a prevalência e gravidade das lesões em rebanhos brasileiros. Os cascos dos membros pélvicos de 2.660 porcas, de 30 granjas, foram examinados para as seguintes lesões: crescimento e erosão da almofada plantar (AP), rachadura entre almofada plantar e sola, lesão na linha branca (LB), rachaduras horizontal e vertical da parede do casco, sobrecrescimento da unha principal e sobrecrescimento ou amputação da unha acessória. Os cascos foram classificados como normais (escore = 0) ou apresentando lesões leves (escore = 1), moderadas (escore = 2) ou graves (escore = 3). Pelo menos um tipo de lesão foi observado em 99,1% das porcas, enquanto 29,7% apresentaram lesões graves. AP foi a lesão mais comum (89,9% das porcas) e LB severa foi observada em 16,8% das porcas. As lesões aumentaram em prevalência e severidade com as ordens de parto, com exceção para LB. Em fêmeas jovens, as lesões na face plantar foram mais comuns do que as rachaduras ou sobrecrescimento das unhas, algo que deve ser levado em consideração na seleção de leitoas para reprodução. Alta prevalência de lesões de casco foi observada em porcas brasileiras. A avaliação dessas lesões é rápida e simples. O monitoramento frequente fornece informações sobre a saúde dos cascos de um rebanho ao longo do tempo, permitindo tomar medidas para o controle e tratamento das lesões dos cascos, evitando o agravamento do problema, o descarte precoce dos animais e as perdas produtivas e econômicas associadas.

Characterization and frequency of foot injuries and foot-related lameness in a sheep herd with prophylactic measures for foot-related diseases / Caracterização e frequência de lesões podais e da claudicação em rebanho ovino com medidas profiláticas de doenças podais

Foot lesions in sheep herds are responsible for great economic losses, because pain during locomotion interferes with feeding and behavior, leading productivity losses. The objective of this work was to describe the main foot disease found in sheep herd that uses prophylactic measures against foot diseases. A total of 346 ewes of different ages, with or without lameness, were assessed for the presence of foot lesions in all limbs, digits and adjacent structures. Among all the 2768 digits evaluated, 103 (29.76%) had lesions, representing 1.04 lesion per animal. 41.75% (43/103) had only one lesion, 39.81% (41/103) had two lesions, 16 (15.53%) had three lesions, and only 2.91% (3/103) had four or more lesions. Hind limbs were the most affected and the most frequent diseases were white line disease (40.05%), interdigital dermatitis (33.70%) and footrot (12.15%). It was concluded that foot disease in sheep is frequent and constitute a health problem for herds, even on farms that use strategies to prevent it. Therefore, it is essential to classify the lesions, as well as the adoption of effective prophylactic and therapeutic measures.

Lesões podais em ovinos são responsáveis por grandes perdas econômicas, pois a dor durante a locomoção interfere na alimentação e no comportamento, levando à perda de produtividade. O objetivo deste trabalho foi descrever as principais doenças podais encontradas em rebanho ovino, que utiliza medidas profiláticas contra as doenças podais. Foram examinadas 346 ovelhas quanto à presença de lesões podais em todos os membros, dígitos e estruturas adjacentes. Entre os 2.768 dígitos avaliados, 103 (29,76%) apresentavam lesões, representando 1,04 lesões por animal. 41,75% (43/103) apresentavam apenas uma lesão, 39,81% (41/103) tinham duas lesões, 16 (15,53%) tinham três lesões, e apenas três animais apresentavam quatro ou mais lesões. Os membros posteriores foram os mais afetados e as doenças mais frequentes foram a doença da linha branca (40,05%), dermatite interdigital (33,70%) e footrot (12,15%). Pode-se concluir que as lesões podais em ovinos são frequentes e constituem um problema sanitário para os rebanhos, mesmo em propriedade que realiza medidas profiláticas. Portanto, é fundamental classificar as lesões, assim como adotar as medidas profiláticas e terapêuticas eficazes.

Use of aerobic treadmill exercises on nerve regeneration after sciatic nerve injury in spontaneously hypertensive rats

Purpose: Various postoperative protocols have been proposed to improve outcomes and accelerate nerve regeneration. Recently, the use of physical exercise in a post-surgical neurorraphy procedure has shown good results when started early. We experimentally investigated the hypothesis that post-operative exercise speeds up results and improves clinical and morphologic parameters. Methods: Isogenic rats were randomly divided into four groups: 1 SHAM; 2 SHAM submitted to the exercise protocol (EP); 3 Grafting of the sciatic nerve; and 4 Grafting of the sciatic nerve associated with the EP. The EP was based on aerobic activities with a treadmill, with a progressive increase in time and intensity during 6 weeks. The results were evaluated by the sciatic functional index (SFI), morphometric and morphologic analysis of nerve distal to the lesion, and the number of spinal cord motor neurons, positive to the marker Fluoro-Gold (FG), captured retrogradely through neurorraphy. Results: Functional analysis (SFI) did not show a statistical difference between the group grafted with (­50.94) and without exercise (-65.79) after 90 days. The motoneurons count (Spinal cord histology) also showed no diference between these groups (834.5 × 833 respectively). Although functionally there is no difference between these groups, morphometric study showed a greater density (53.62) and larger fibers (7.762) in GRAFT group. When comparing both operated groups with both SHAM groups, all values were much lower. Conclusions: The experimental model that this aerobic treadmill exercises protocol did not modify nerve regeneration after sciatic nerve injury and repair with nerve graft.

Detection of Treponema spp. in bovine digital dermatitis in the Amazon biome, Brazil / Detecção de Treponema spp. em dermatite digital bovina no bioma amazônico, Brasil

Bovine digital dermatitis (BDD) is a polybacterial claw disease that is endemic to dairy cattle kept in loose house systems, and treponemas are the main bacteria implicated in this disease. The objective of this study was to report the occurrence of Treponema spp. in BDD from crossbred dairy cattle (Holstein x Zebu) kept in a pasture in the Brazilian Amazon biome. The diagnostic of BDD was performed by inspecting the distal extremities of cattle during milking in one or more visits comprising 15 farms. In total, it could be inspected 1,847 cows from August 2016 to July 2017, and 25 lesions of BDD were diagnosed. The feet were scored (System M: M0 = no lesion, M1 = ulcer stage <2cm, M2 = ulcer stage >2cm, M3 = healing stage, M4 = chronic stage, M4.1 = chronic stage with ulcer area). Twenty four biopsy samples were taken from feet with BDD and five biopsy samples from feet with no lesions. The histopathology of stained tissues was performed by hematoxylin and eosin and Warthin-Starry method. The samples were also tested by nested PCR for the three previously isolated BDD Treponema phylogroups (T. medium/T. vincentii-like, T. phagedenis-like and T. putidum/T. denticola-like). Spirochetes were observed in 54.2% (13/24) of the lesions, and in 91.7% (22/24) of the samples were detected the DNA of this spirochete belonging to the treponema phylogroups implicated in BDD. In 25% (6/24) of the lesions were detected all the phylogroups. Forty percent (40%, 2/5) of the M0 samples were also positive for the nested Polymerase Chain Reaction (nested-PCR), as 8.3% (2/24) of the lesions were negative in both techniques employed. Treponema putidum/T. denticola-like was the most detected bacterial in all the stages, and active lesions (M2 and M4.1) presented a greater proportion of T. medium/T. vincentii-like and T. phagedenis-like, but no statistical differences were observed (p>0.05). It could be concluded that BDD lesions in crossbred dairy cattle kept to pasture in the Amazon biome were classified as "polytreponemal" infections and the phylogroup T. putidum/T. denticola-like was the most frequent in the lesions.(AU)

Dermatite digital bovina (DDB) é uma enfermidade polibacteriana dos dígitos endêmica em vacas leiteiras criadas em estábulos e as treponemas são as principais bactérias envolvidas. Este estudo teve como objetivo relatar a ocorrência de Treponema spp. em DDB em bovinos leiteiros mestiços (Holandês x Zebu) criados a pasto no bioma amazônico brasileiro. O diagnóstico da DDB foi realizado pela inspeção, em uma ou mais visitas, das extremidades distais das vacas durante a ordenha em 15 propriedades. No total, foram inspecionadas 1.847 vacas de agosto de 2016 a julho de 2017 e diagnosticou-se 25 lesões de DDB. As extremidades distais inspecionadas foram classificadas em escores (M0 = sem lesão, M1 = estágio ulcerado <2cm, M2 = estágio ulcerado >2cm, M3 = estágio em cicatrização, M4 = estágio crônico, M4.1 = estágio crônico com área ulcerada) e realizada 24 biópsias de dígitos com DDB e cinco biópsias de dígitos em estágio M0. Foram realizadas a histopatologia pelas colorações de hematoxilina e eosina e pelo método de Warthin-Starry, e a nested de reação em cadeia de polimerase (nested-PCR) para os três filogrupos de treponemas previamente isolados de DDB (Treponema medium/T. vincentii-like, T. phagedenis-like e T. putidum/T. denticola-like). Espiroquetas foram observadas em 54,2% (13/24) das lesões e em 91,7% (22/24) detectou-se o DNA de, pelo menos, um dos filogrupos de treponemas pesquisados. Em 25% (6/24) das lesões foram detectados o DNA dos três filogrupos. Em 40% (2/5) das amostras em estágio M0 também foram positivas na nested-PCR, assim como 8,3% (2/24) das lesões foram negativas em ambas as técnicas empregadas. T. putidum/T. denticola-like foi o filogrupo mais detectado em todos os estágios e lesões ativas (M2 e M4.1) apresentaram uma maior proporção para Treponema medium/T. vincentii-like e T. phagedenis-like, mas não se obteve diferença estatística na ocorrência dos filogrupos entre os estágios das lesões (P>0,05). Conclui-se que lesões de DDB em rebanhos leiteiros mestiços criados a pasto no bioma amazônico brasileiro são "politreponemais" e o filogrupo T. putidum/T. denticola-like é o mais frequente nas lesões.(AU)

Detection of Treponema spp. in bovine digital dermatitis in the Amazon biome, Brazil / Detecção de Treponema spp. em dermatite digital bovina no bioma amazônico, Brasil

Bovine digital dermatitis (BDD) is a polybacterial claw disease that is endemic to dairy cattle kept in loose house systems, and treponemas are the main bacteria implicated in this disease. The objective of this study was to report the occurrence of Treponema spp. in BDD from crossbred dairy cattle (Holstein x Zebu) kept in a pasture in the Brazilian Amazon biome. The diagnostic of BDD was performed by inspecting the distal extremities of cattle during milking in one or more visits comprising 15 farms. In total, it could be inspected 1,847 cows from August 2016 to July 2017, and 25 lesions of BDD were diagnosed. The feet were scored (System M: M0 = no lesion, M1 = ulcer stage <2cm, M2 = ulcer stage >2cm, M3 = healing stage, M4 = chronic stage, M4.1 = chronic stage with ulcer area). Twenty four biopsy samples were taken from feet with BDD and five biopsy samples from feet with no lesions. The histopathology of stained tissues was performed by hematoxylin and eosin and Warthin-Starry method. The samples were also tested by nested PCR for the three previously isolated BDD Treponema phylogroups (T. medium/T. vincentii-like, T. phagedenis-like and T. putidum/T. denticola-like). Spirochetes were observed in 54.2% (13/24) of the lesions, and in 91.7% (22/24) of the samples were detected the DNA of this spirochete belonging to the treponema phylogroups implicated in BDD. In 25% (6/24) of the lesions were detected all the phylogroups. Forty percent (40%, 2/5) of the M0 samples were also positive for the nested Polymerase Chain Reaction (nested-PCR), as 8.3% (2/24) of the lesions were negative in both techniques employed. Treponema putidum/T. denticola-like was the most detected bacterial in all the stages, and active lesions (M2 and M4.1) presented a greater proportion of T. medium/T. vincentii-like and T. phagedenis-like, but no statistical differences were observed (p>0.05). It could be concluded that BDD lesions in crossbred dairy cattle kept to pasture in the Amazon biome were classified as "polytreponemal" infections and the phylogroup T. putidum/T. denticola-like was the most frequent in the lesions.(AU)

Dermatite digital bovina (DDB) é uma enfermidade polibacteriana dos dígitos endêmica em vacas leiteiras criadas em estábulos e as treponemas são as principais bactérias envolvidas. Este estudo teve como objetivo relatar a ocorrência de Treponema spp. em DDB em bovinos leiteiros mestiços (Holandês x Zebu) criados a pasto no bioma amazônico brasileiro. O diagnóstico da DDB foi realizado pela inspeção, em uma ou mais visitas, das extremidades distais das vacas durante a ordenha em 15 propriedades. No total, foram inspecionadas 1.847 vacas de agosto de 2016 a julho de 2017 e diagnosticou-se 25 lesões de DDB. As extremidades distais inspecionadas foram classificadas em escores (M0 = sem lesão, M1 = estágio ulcerado <2cm, M2 = estágio ulcerado >2cm, M3 = estágio em cicatrização, M4 = estágio crônico, M4.1 = estágio crônico com área ulcerada) e realizada 24 biópsias de dígitos com DDB e cinco biópsias de dígitos em estágio M0. Foram realizadas a histopatologia pelas colorações de hematoxilina e eosina e pelo método de Warthin-Starry, e a nested de reação em cadeia de polimerase (nested-PCR) para os três filogrupos de treponemas previamente isolados de DDB (Treponema medium/T. vincentii-like, T. phagedenis-like e T. putidum/T. denticola-like). Espiroquetas foram observadas em 54,2% (13/24) das lesões e em 91,7% (22/24) detectou-se o DNA de, pelo menos, um dos filogrupos de treponemas pesquisados. Em 25% (6/24) das lesões foram detectados o DNA dos três filogrupos. Em 40% (2/5) das amostras em estágio M0 também foram positivas na nested-PCR, assim como 8,3% (2/24) das lesões foram negativas em ambas as técnicas empregadas. T. putidum/T. denticola-like foi o filogrupo mais detectado em todos os estágios e lesões ativas (M2 e M4.1) apresentaram uma maior proporção para Treponema medium/T. vincentii-like e T. phagedenis-like, mas não se obteve diferença estatística na ocorrência dos filogrupos entre os estágios das lesões (P>0,05). Conclui-se que lesões de DDB em rebanhos leiteiros mestiços criados a pasto no bioma amazônico brasileiro são "politreponemais" e o filogrupo T. putidum/T. denticola-like é o mais frequente nas lesões.(AU)

Bovine digital dermatitis in the Brazilian Amazon biome and topical treatment with Copaifera reticulata oil / Dermatite digital bovina no bioma amazônico brasileiro e tratamento tópico com óleo de Copaifera reticulata

Bovine Digital Dermatitis (BDD) was studied in crossbred dairy cows grazing in Rondon do Pará, in the state of Pará, as well as in Açailândia and Cidelândia, in the state of Maranhão, Brazilian Amazon biome. The digits inspection from the dairy cows during milking was performed in ten farms comprising four visits (August and November 2016; April and July 2017). The cows were kept all year in pastures, and were mechanically milked on concrete floors and the animals were protected against the rains in eight farms, maintaining a daily cleaning, however, it could not be found a concrete floor in pre- or post-milking to ensure milking parlor on three farms. Manual milking on no concrete floors was performed in two farms. No preventive measures against hoof lesions were adopted. The BDD prevalence was 1.3% (22/1664), and no statistical difference among rainy or no rainy season was obtained (p = 0.72). The BDD lesions were classified according to "M system" (M0 = no lesion, M1 = active ulceration <2cm, M2 = active ulceration >2cm, M3 = healing stage, M4 = chronic stage, M4.1 = M4 with active ulceration). Regarding the 22 BDD lesions observed, 22.7% (5/22) were M1 stage, 36.4% (8/22) M2, 22.7% (5/22) M3, 13.6% (3/22) M4 and 4.5 (1/22) M4.1. Hypertrophic hairs at the edges of the lesions caused by fly larvae of genus Cochliomyia spp. as well as alterations on the hoof were also observed. Topical treatment was performed in six BDD lesions with a raw extract from trees of the genus Copaifera reticulata (Copaiba oil) and compared with the treatment of salicylic acid paste in five BDD lesions. The lesions were protected with a bandage for seven days and followed weekly until recovery. The complete therapeutic responses were 83.4% (5/6) and 75% (3/4), respectively, with an average time of seven weeks. The BDD in the Amazon biome occurs in low prevalence, not seasonal, and presents macro and microscopic features similar to BDD lesions from dairy cattle kept in free-stall housing. The treatment with copaiba oil showed similar results to the treatment of salicylic acid paste and can be used in control measures to BDD in the Amazon biome.(AU)

A dermatite digital bovina (DDB) foi estudada em vacas mestiças leiteiras nos municípios de Rondon do Pará no Pará, Açailândia e Cidelândia no Maranhão, bioma amazônico brasileiro. Para tanto, foram realizadas quatro visitas a 10 propriedades, nos meses de agosto e novembro em 2016 e abril e julho em 2017, e realizada a inspeção dos dígitos de 1.664 vacas em lactação durante a ordenha. Nestas propriedades as vacas eram criadas a pasto durante todo o ano e ordenhadas mecanicamente em oito propriedades. As quais, as salas de ordenha tinham piso concretado, com proteção contra as chuvas e era realizada a limpeza diariamente. No entanto, em três dessas propriedades, as salas de pré ou pós ordenha tinham piso não concretado e em duas, a ordenha era manual em piso de chão batido. Em todas elas não havia medidas profiláticas para afecções podais. A prevalência de DDB foi de 1,3% (22/1.664) e não se obteve diferença estatística entre os períodos chuvoso e não chuvoso (P = 0,72). As lesões observadas foram classificadas de acordo com o sistema M (M0-sem lesão; M1-lesão ulcerada <2cm; M2-lesão ulcerada >2cm; M3-lesão em cicatrização; M4-lesão crônica; M4.1- M4 com área ulcerada). De 22 lesões observadas, 22,7% (5/22) apresentavam-se em estágio M1, 36,4% (8/22) em M2, 22,7% (5/22) em M3, 13,6% (3/22) em M4 e 4,5% (1/22) em M4.1. Pelos hipertrofiados nos bordos das lesões, larvas de moscas do gênero Cochliomyia spp. e alterações no tecido córneo também foram observados. Nas lesões de 11 bovinos, em seis, foi realizado o tratamento tópico com extrato bruto de Copaifera reticulata (óleo de copaíba) e em cinco, com a pasta de ácido salicílico a 660mg/g e ambos os tratamentos foram protegidos com bandagem por sete dias. Após, as lesões foram acompanhadas semanalmente até a cura e obteve-se um índice de 83,4% (5/6) e 75% (3/4) de cura com esses tratamentos, respectivamente, com uma média de 7 semanas. Conclui-se que no bioma amazônico a DDB ocorre em baixa prevalência, não sazonal e com características macroscópicas semelhantes às lesões de vacas leiteiras criadas em sistema free stall. O tratamento com o óleo da copaíba apresentou resultados semelhante ao ácido salicílico e pode ser uma alternativa como medida de controle da DDB no bioma amazônico.(AU)

Bovine digital dermatitis in the Brazilian Amazon biome and topical treatment with Copaifera reticulata oil / Dermatite digital bovina no bioma amazônico brasileiro e tratamento tópico com óleo de Copaifera reticulata

Bovine Digital Dermatitis (BDD) was studied in crossbred dairy cows grazing in Rondon do Pará, in the state of Pará, as well as in Açailândia and Cidelândia, in the state of Maranhão, Brazilian Amazon biome. The digits inspection from the dairy cows during milking was performed in ten farms comprising four visits (August and November 2016; April and July 2017). The cows were kept all year in pastures, and were mechanically milked on concrete floors and the animals were protected against the rains in eight farms, maintaining a daily cleaning, however, it could not be found a concrete floor in pre- or post-milking to ensure milking parlor on three farms. Manual milking on no concrete floors was performed in two farms. No preventive measures against hoof lesions were adopted. The BDD prevalence was 1.3% (22/1664), and no statistical difference among rainy or no rainy season was obtained (p = 0.72). The BDD lesions were classified according to "M system" (M0 = no lesion, M1 = active ulceration <2cm, M2 = active ulceration >2cm, M3 = healing stage, M4 = chronic stage, M4.1 = M4 with active ulceration). Regarding the 22 BDD lesions observed, 22.7% (5/22) were M1 stage, 36.4% (8/22) M2, 22.7% (5/22) M3, 13.6% (3/22) M4 and 4.5 (1/22) M4.1. Hypertrophic hairs at the edges of the lesions caused by fly larvae of genus Cochliomyia spp. as well as alterations on the hoof were also observed. Topical treatment was performed in six BDD lesions with a raw extract from trees of the genus Copaifera reticulata (Copaiba oil) and compared with the treatment of salicylic acid paste in five BDD lesions. The lesions were protected with a bandage for seven days and followed weekly until recovery. The complete therapeutic responses were 83.4% (5/6) and 75% (3/4), respectively, with an average time of seven weeks. The BDD in the Amazon biome occurs in low prevalence, not seasonal, and presents macro and microscopic features similar to BDD lesions from dairy cattle kept in free-stall housing. The treatment with copaiba oil showed similar results to the treatment of salicylic acid paste and can be used in control measures to BDD in the Amazon biome.(AU)

A dermatite digital bovina (DDB) foi estudada em vacas mestiças leiteiras nos municípios de Rondon do Pará no Pará, Açailândia e Cidelândia no Maranhão, bioma amazônico brasileiro. Para tanto, foram realizadas quatro visitas a 10 propriedades, nos meses de agosto e novembro em 2016 e abril e julho em 2017, e realizada a inspeção dos dígitos de 1.664 vacas em lactação durante a ordenha. Nestas propriedades as vacas eram criadas a pasto durante todo o ano e ordenhadas mecanicamente em oito propriedades. As quais, as salas de ordenha tinham piso concretado, com proteção contra as chuvas e era realizada a limpeza diariamente. No entanto, em três dessas propriedades, as salas de pré ou pós ordenha tinham piso não concretado e em duas, a ordenha era manual em piso de chão batido. Em todas elas não havia medidas profiláticas para afecções podais. A prevalência de DDB foi de 1,3% (22/1.664) e não se obteve diferença estatística entre os períodos chuvoso e não chuvoso (P = 0,72). As lesões observadas foram classificadas de acordo com o sistema M (M0-sem lesão; M1-lesão ulcerada <2cm; M2-lesão ulcerada >2cm; M3-lesão em cicatrização; M4-lesão crônica; M4.1- M4 com área ulcerada). De 22 lesões observadas, 22,7% (5/22) apresentavam-se em estágio M1, 36,4% (8/22) em M2, 22,7% (5/22) em M3, 13,6% (3/22) em M4 e 4,5% (1/22) em M4.1. Pelos hipertrofiados nos bordos das lesões, larvas de moscas do gênero Cochliomyia spp. e alterações no tecido córneo também foram observados. Nas lesões de 11 bovinos, em seis, foi realizado o tratamento tópico com extrato bruto de Copaifera reticulata (óleo de copaíba) e em cinco, com a pasta de ácido salicílico a 660mg/g e ambos os tratamentos foram protegidos com bandagem por sete dias. Após, as lesões foram acompanhadas semanalmente até a cura e obteve-se um índice de 83,4% (5/6) e 75% (3/4) de cura com esses tratamentos, respectivamente, com uma média de 7 semanas. Conclui-se que no bioma amazônico a DDB ocorre em baixa prevalência, não sazonal e com características macroscópicas semelhantes às lesões de vacas leiteiras criadas em sistema free stall. O tratamento com o óleo da copaíba apresentou resultados semelhante ao ácido salicílico e pode ser uma alternativa como medida de controle da DDB no bioma amazônico.(AU)

Prevalence and distribution of feet lesions in dairy cows raised in the freestall / Prevalência e distribuição de lesões podais em vacas leiteiras criadas em free stall

Foot lesions are one of the main causes of productivity losses in the dairy industry. In this study, we aimed to estimate the prevalence of claudication and distribution of hoof lesions by associating them with preventive hoof trimming, as well as list the main causes of involuntary discarding and the main health problems reported in dairy farms. The study included 10 farms distributed in 7 municipalities of Rio Grande do Sul state. The body condition score (BCS) and locomotion score (LS) of the cows were assessed. Hoof examination, lesion classification, and hoof trimming of the animals were performed. Of the 492 animals, 38.4% presented lameness and 36% had foot lesions, 81.4% of which were observed in the pelvic limbs and 19.6% in the thoracic limbs. Of the lesions in the limbs, 47.1% were of infectious origin and 52.9% were noninfectious. The main lesions were sole ulcers (31.6%), digital dermatitis (30.3%), thin soles (12%), and interdigital dermatitis (11.2%). Cows aged 4 to 6 years had a higher number of lesions and a higher LS. Preventive hoof trimming reduced the chances of lameness by 55% as the locomotive system was the main sanitary problem and the first reason for involuntary disposal of the farms. The results show that dairy cows raised in a free stall system have a high prevalence of claudication and foot diseases. These data should be taken into account when altering the livestock management of these animals in order to reduce significant economic losses in the herd.(AU)

As lesões podais são uma das principais causas de perdas de produtividade na indústria leiteira. Neste estudo, tivemos como objetivo estimar a prevalência de claudicação e distribuição de lesões de casco associando-as com a realização de casqueamento preventivo, assim como elencar as principais causas de descarte involuntário e de principais problemas sanitários relatados nas propriedades. Foram incluídas no estudo 10 propriedades, distribuídas em 7 municípios do Rio Grande do Sul. As vacas foram examinadas quanto ao seu escore de condição corporal (ECC) e escore de locomoção (EL). Foram realizados os exames de casco, a classificação das lesões e o casqueamento dos animais. Dos 492 animais, 38,4% apresentaram claudicação e 36% possuíam lesões podais, sendo 81,4% delas observadas nos membros pélvicos e 19,6% nos membros torácicos. Das lesões nos membros, 47,1% foram de origem infecciosa e 52,9% não infecciosa. As principais lesões diagnosticadas foram úlcera de sola (31,6%), dermatite digital (30,3%), sola delgada (12%) e dermatite interdigital (11,2%). As vacas com idade entre 4 e 6 anos apresentaram maior concentração de lesões e maior grau de EL. O casqueamento preventivo reduziu em 55% as chances de claudicação, assim como o sistema locomotor foi o principal problema sanitário e primeiro motivo de descarte involuntário das propriedades. Os resultados obtidos revelam que vacas leiteiras criadas em sistema free stall apresentam uma alta prevalência de claudicação e de afecções podais. Esses dados devem ser levados em consideração quando da alteração do manejo de criação destes animais, visando a reduzir as expressivas perdas econômicas no rebanho.(AU)

Use of platelet-rich plasma in the treatment of desmitis of distal interphalangeal joint collateral ligament in a horse

Background: Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) has been increasingly used to hasten healing of tendonitis and desmitis, allowinghorse athletes to go back to practicing sports in a shorter period of time. However, its use has rarely been reported in thetreatment of desmitis of the collateral ligaments of the distal interphalangeal joint (CL-DIP), which is based on the useof horseshoes and rest for at least six months. This paper describes the use of PRP as an aid in the treatment of CL-DIPin a horse athlete.Case: A male Criollo horse, 450 kg, about 15-year-old, used for paleteada. The animal had a month-long history of lameness, and a visual inspection revealed an increase in volume in the lateral dorsal region of the limb proximal to the coronaryband of the hoof. A specific examination of the locomotive system showed Grade III, Category 5 claudication, which became evident the beginning of the exercise and ceased after a short period. A radiographic evaluation of the distal phalanxrevealed no clinically relevant changes. Therefore, and in view of the location of the increased volume, an ultrasound scanwas performed, which showed an image compatible with an extensive hematoma in the region underlying the periopliccorium, while the CL-DIP presented swelling with large areas of hypoechogenicity. Considering the findings of the image,the physical examination and the history of the horse, desmitis of the collateral ligaments of the distal interphalangeal jointwas diagnosed. The treatment plan consisted of rest, application of a therapeutic horseshoe, and infiltration of the lesionwith platelet-rich plasma (PRP). First, however, warm compresses were applied to reduce the swelling. The PRP wasobtained by collecting whole blood from the external jugular vein, subjecting it to double centrifugation, and separatingthe supernatant blood plasma. The end product was applied to the lesion by ultrasound-guided infiltration. The horseshoewas a model...

Use of platelet-rich plasma in the treatment of desmitis of distal interphalangeal joint collateral ligament in a horse

Background: Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) has been increasingly used to hasten healing of tendonitis and desmitis, allowinghorse athletes to go back to practicing sports in a shorter period of time. However, its use has rarely been reported in thetreatment of desmitis of the collateral ligaments of the distal interphalangeal joint (CL-DIP), which is based on the useof horseshoes and rest for at least six months. This paper describes the use of PRP as an aid in the treatment of CL-DIPin a horse athlete.Case: A male Criollo horse, 450 kg, about 15-year-old, used for paleteada. The animal had a month-long history of lameness, and a visual inspection revealed an increase in volume in the lateral dorsal region of the limb proximal to the coronaryband of the hoof. A specific examination of the locomotive system showed Grade III, Category 5 claudication, which became evident the beginning of the exercise and ceased after a short period. A radiographic evaluation of the distal phalanxrevealed no clinically relevant changes. Therefore, and in view of the location of the increased volume, an ultrasound scanwas performed, which showed an image compatible with an extensive hematoma in the region underlying the periopliccorium, while the CL-DIP presented swelling with large areas of hypoechogenicity. Considering the findings of the image,the physical examination and the history of the horse, desmitis of the collateral ligaments of the distal interphalangeal jointwas diagnosed. The treatment plan consisted of rest, application of a therapeutic horseshoe, and infiltration of the lesionwith platelet-rich plasma (PRP). First, however, warm compresses were applied to reduce the swelling. The PRP wasobtained by collecting whole blood from the external jugular vein, subjecting it to double centrifugation, and separatingthe supernatant blood plasma. The end product was applied to the lesion by ultrasound-guided infiltration. The horseshoewas a model...(AU)

Assessment of oxidative status in foot diseases of sheep

Background: Oxidative stress plays an important role in the etiology and/or progression of various diseases in the livestock. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between foot diseases and oxidant and antioxidant levels, determining catalase (CAT) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activities and malondialdehyde (MDA), nitric oxide (NO) and glutathione (GSH) concentrations in sheep with foot disease such as interdigital dermatitis, footrot and interdigital pouch infection (biflex canal inflammation).Materials, Methods & Results: In the study, a total of 70 sheep aged between 1 and 3, 20 sheep with interdigital dermatitis, 20 with foot-rot, 10 with interdigital pouch inflammation and 20 clinically healthy Akkaraman sheep, were used. The blood samples collected from the V. Jugularis of the sheep were centrifuged and their serums were obtained. MDA and NO levels of the sheep with interdigital dermatitis, footrot and interdigital pouch infection were found to be significantly higher than those of animals in the control group (P < 0.001). CAT activity was determined to be significantly lower in all diseased animals than in the animals in the control group (P < 0.001). GSH-Px and GSH levels were significantly lower in the animals with interdigital dermatitis than in the control group (respectively P < 0.001, P < 0.05).Discussion: Oxidative stress regulates the metabolic activity of some organs and plays an important role in productivity in livestock. The oxidative stress is reported that caused by the increase in the production of excessive free radicals resulting from the exposure of animals to various stress factors and by the weakening of the antioxidant defense has an important role in the pathogenesis of numerous diseases such as foot diseases. In the presence of various stress factors, the level of malondialdehyde (MDA) and nitric oxide (NO) increases. MDA is determine the degree of cellular damage in tissues.[...]

Assessment of oxidative status in foot diseases of sheep

Background: Oxidative stress plays an important role in the etiology and/or progression of various diseases in the livestock. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between foot diseases and oxidant and antioxidant levels, determining catalase (CAT) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) activities and malondialdehyde (MDA), nitric oxide (NO) and glutathione (GSH) concentrations in sheep with foot disease such as interdigital dermatitis, footrot and interdigital pouch infection (biflex canal inflammation).Materials, Methods & Results: In the study, a total of 70 sheep aged between 1 and 3, 20 sheep with interdigital dermatitis, 20 with foot-rot, 10 with interdigital pouch inflammation and 20 clinically healthy Akkaraman sheep, were used. The blood samples collected from the V. Jugularis of the sheep were centrifuged and their serums were obtained. MDA and NO levels of the sheep with interdigital dermatitis, footrot and interdigital pouch infection were found to be significantly higher than those of animals in the control group (P < 0.001). CAT activity was determined to be significantly lower in all diseased animals than in the animals in the control group (P < 0.001). GSH-Px and GSH levels were significantly lower in the animals with interdigital dermatitis than in the control group (respectively P < 0.001, P < 0.05).Discussion: Oxidative stress regulates the metabolic activity of some organs and plays an important role in productivity in livestock. The oxidative stress is reported that caused by the increase in the production of excessive free radicals resulting from the exposure of animals to various stress factors and by the weakening of the antioxidant defense has an important role in the pathogenesis of numerous diseases such as foot diseases. In the presence of various stress factors, the level of malondialdehyde (MDA) and nitric oxide (NO) increases. MDA is determine the degree of cellular damage in tissues.[...](AU)

Use of gamithromycin for the treatment of osteomyelitis secondary to foot rot in a sheep

Background: Lameness is one of the main causes of economic losses in sheep breeding, especially in the distal region of the limbs. Poor sanitation management, especially in terms of hygiene conditions and the introduction of animals without previous preventive care, is an important predisposing factor in sheep flocks. Interdigital phlegmon (foot rot) is a bacterial disease that causes pain, heat, edema, hyperemia in the region, and can lead to secondary processes such as osteomyelitis. This case report describes the use of gamithromycin for the treatment of osteomyelitis secondary to foot rot in a sheep.Case: An Ile-de-France ewe exhibiting signs of lameness, pain, heat, hyperemia and edema in the four digits was treated at the Veterinary Hospital of UNIPAMPA. The lesions were characterized by interdigital phlegmon, commonly known as foot rot, and the right thoracic limb was more affected, exuding a foul odor and purulent secretion. The affected limbs were treated topically with an antiseptic solution. The lesions healed completely except for the right thoracic limb, whose clinical condition worsened. Osteitis was suspected, and was confirmed by radiographic evaluation of the region. Treatment with ceftiofur was introduced, but proved to be ineffective. Nevertheless, the lesion was found to have worsened, and a new X-ray evaluation was made, which revealed dislocation of the distal phalanx as well as involvement of the middle and proximal phalanges. Thus, we decided to perform chemical arthrodesis of the distal interphalangeal joint. Before beginning this procedure, contrast X-rays were taken that revealed the development of a fistulous pathway connecting the distal interphalangeal joint to the proximal interphalangeal joint, which precluded this procedure. In view of the worsening of the condition, amputation of the distal and middle phalanges was performed, as well as scraping of the distal edge of the proximal phalanx.[...](AU)

Use of gamithromycin for the treatment of osteomyelitis secondary to foot rot in a sheep

Background: Lameness is one of the main causes of economic losses in sheep breeding, especially in the distal region of the limbs. Poor sanitation management, especially in terms of hygiene conditions and the introduction of animals without previous preventive care, is an important predisposing factor in sheep flocks. Interdigital phlegmon (foot rot) is a bacterial disease that causes pain, heat, edema, hyperemia in the region, and can lead to secondary processes such as osteomyelitis. This case report describes the use of gamithromycin for the treatment of osteomyelitis secondary to foot rot in a sheep.Case: An Ile-de-France ewe exhibiting signs of lameness, pain, heat, hyperemia and edema in the four digits was treated at the Veterinary Hospital of UNIPAMPA. The lesions were characterized by interdigital phlegmon, commonly known as foot rot, and the right thoracic limb was more affected, exuding a foul odor and purulent secretion. The affected limbs were treated topically with an antiseptic solution. The lesions healed completely except for the right thoracic limb, whose clinical condition worsened. Osteitis was suspected, and was confirmed by radiographic evaluation of the region. Treatment with ceftiofur was introduced, but proved to be ineffective. Nevertheless, the lesion was found to have worsened, and a new X-ray evaluation was made, which revealed dislocation of the distal phalanx as well as involvement of the middle and proximal phalanges. Thus, we decided to perform chemical arthrodesis of the distal interphalangeal joint. Before beginning this procedure, contrast X-rays were taken that revealed the development of a fistulous pathway connecting the distal interphalangeal joint to the proximal interphalangeal joint, which precluded this procedure. In view of the worsening of the condition, amputation of the distal and middle phalanges was performed, as well as scraping of the distal edge of the proximal phalanx.[...]

Efeito da densidade de alojamento sobre a incidência de pododermatite e características ósseas de frangos de corte criados em aviários Dark House / Effect of housing density on pododermatitis incidence and bone characteristics in broilers reared in “Dark House ” system

O objetivo foi avaliar o efeito da densidade de alojamento sobre a incidência de pododermatite e características ósseas durante todo período de criação de frangos de corte. O experimento foi realizado em três aviários comerciais. Os pintos foram alojados no mesmo dia e distribuídos de acordo com três densidades: aviário A - 14.33 aves/m2, aviário B - 15.00 aves/m2 e aviário C - 15.66 aves/m2. Semanalmente 15 aves/aviário foram sacrificadas e as pernas e o pé direito de cada ave foram coletados. Foi avaliado o score macroscópico da área do coxim plantar de cada ave, caracterizando-os em: ausência de lesão (score A), lesão leve apenas no coxim plantar (score B), lesões graves e múltiplas (C). Em seguida, foi extraído o coxim plantar do pé e fixado em formol tamponado. As amostras foram submetidas aos procedimentos histológicos (medida da derme e epiderme). Os ossos das pernas foram submetidos ao ensaio de flexão à taxa de deformação. A imagem transversal da porção medial da diáfise óssea foi capturada e medidas a área, espessura e diâmetro do osso cortical. Os dados foram analisados pelo programa SAS. O aumento na densidade de alojamento resultou em maior incidência de lesões graves no coxim plantar, menor resistência óssea à quebra e área do corte longitudinal da tíbia aos 42 dias e diminuição da espessura do osso cortical aos 21 dias de idade das aves. O aumento da densidade de alojamento afeta negativamente as características ósseas e leva a maior incidência de condenações por pododermatite ao abate.(AU)

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of housing density on the incidence of foot pad dermatitis and bone characteristics throughout rearing of broiler chickens. The experiment was carried out in three commercial poultry farms. The chicks were housed on the same day and distributed according to three densities: barn A - 14.33 birds / m2, barn B - 15:00 birds / m2 and barn C - 15.66 birds / m2 15 birds / barn were weekly culled; legs and the right foot of each bird were collected. It was evaluated the macroscopic score of cushion plant area of each bird, classifying them into: no lesion (score A), bruises in the footpad (score B), serious and multiple injury (C). Then, it was extracted the footpad of the foot and fixed in formalin. The samples underwent histological procedures. The leg bones were tested for flexural deformation rate. The cross-sectional image of the medial portion of the bone was captured; then, the area, thickness and diameter were measured at the cortical bone. Data were analyzed through SAS software. The increased density resulted in higher incidence of severe lesions in the footpad, lower bone breaking strength and area of the cross section of the tibia after 42 days. It decreases the thickness of the cortical bone at 21 days of age of the birds. Increased housing density negatively affects bone characteristics and leads to higher incidence of food pad dermatitis at slaughter.(AU)

Efeito da densidade de alojamento sobre a incidência de pododermatite e características ósseas de frangos de corte criados em aviários Dark House / Effect of housing density on pododermatitis incidence and bone characteristics in broilers reared in “Dark House ” system

O objetivo foi avaliar o efeito da densidade de alojamento sobre a incidência de pododermatite e características ósseas durante todo período de criação de frangos de corte. O experimento foi realizado em três aviários comerciais. Os pintos foram alojados no mesmo dia e distribuídos de acordo com três densidades: aviário A - 14.33 aves/m2, aviário B - 15.00 aves/m2 e aviário C - 15.66 aves/m2. Semanalmente 15 aves/aviário foram sacrificadas e as pernas e o pé direito de cada ave foram coletados. Foi avaliado o score macroscópico da área do coxim plantar de cada ave, caracterizando-os em: ausência de lesão (score A), lesão leve apenas no coxim plantar (score B), lesões graves e múltiplas (C). Em seguida, foi extraído o coxim plantar do pé e fixado em formol tamponado. As amostras foram submetidas aos procedimentos histológicos (medida da derme e epiderme). Os ossos das pernas foram submetidos ao ensaio de flexão à taxa de deformação. A imagem transversal da porção medial da diáfise óssea foi capturada e medidas a área, espessura e diâmetro do osso cortical. Os dados foram analisados pelo programa SAS. O aumento na densidade de alojamento resultou em maior incidência de lesões graves no coxim plantar, menor resistência óssea à quebra e área do corte longitudinal da tíbia aos 42 dias e diminuição da espessura do osso cortical aos 21 dias de idade das aves. O aumento da densidade de alojamento afeta negativamente as características ósseas e leva a maior incidência de condenações por pododermatite ao abate.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of housing density on the incidence of foot pad dermatitis and bone characteristics throughout rearing of broiler chickens. The experiment was carried out in three commercial poultry farms. The chicks were housed on the same day and distributed according to three densities: barn A - 14.33 birds / m2, barn B - 15:00 birds / m2 and barn C - 15.66 birds / m2 15 birds / barn were weekly culled; legs and the right foot of each bird were collected. It was evaluated the macroscopic score of cushion plant area of each bird, classifying them into: no lesion (score A), bruises in the footpad (score B), serious and multiple injury (C). Then, it was extracted the footpad of the foot and fixed in formalin. The samples underwent histological procedures. The leg bones were tested for flexural deformation rate. The cross-sectional image of the medial portion of the bone was captured; then, the area, thickness and diameter were measured at the cortical bone. Data were analyzed through SAS software. The increased density resulted in higher incidence of severe lesions in the footpad, lower bone breaking strength and area of the cross section of the tibia after 42 days. It decreases the thickness of the cortical bone at 21 days of age of the birds. Increased housing density negatively affects bone characteristics and leads to higher incidence of food pad dermatitis at slaughter.

Effects of hyperbaric oxygen and nerve growth factor on the long-term neural behavior of neonatal rats with hypoxic ischemic brain damage

Purpose: To evaluate the effects of HBO (Hyperbaric oxygen) and NGF (Nerve growth factor) on the long-term neural behavior of neonatal rats with HIBD (Neonatal hypoxic ischemic brain damage). Methods: The HIBD model was produced by ligating the right common carotid artery of 7 days old SD (Sprague-Dawley) rats followed by 8% O2 + 92% N2 for 2h. Totally 40 rats were randomly divided into 5 groups including sham-operated group, HIBD control group, HBO treated group, NGF treated group and NGF + HBO treated group. The learning and memory ability of these rats was evaluated by Morris water maze at 30 days after birth, and sensory motor function was assessed by experiments of foot error and limb placement at 42 days after birth. Results: The escape latency of HBO treated group, NGF treated group and NGF + HBO treated group was shorter than that of HIBD control group (p 0.01) and longer than that of sham-operated group. The piercing indexes of 3 treated groups were higher than that of HIBD control group (p 0.01). Conclusion: Hyperbaric oxygen and nerve growth factor treatments may improve learning and memory ability and sensory motor function in neonatal rats after hypoxic ischemic brain damage.(AU)

Footpad dermatitis in broilers: differences between strains and gender

Pododermatitis, also known as "bumblefoot", is an inflammatory lesion of the footpad. The objective of this study was to evaluate the influence of genetic strain and sex on the incidence of footpad lesions in broilers. The experiment was carried out at São Paulo State University, using 480 broilers distributed in a completely randomized experimental design in a 2X2 factorial arrangement (2 strains X2 sexes), with four replicates of 30 broilers each, totaling 16 experimental units. Feed intake, weight gain, feed conversion ratio, and livability were evaluated at 21, 35 and 42 days of age; production efficiency factor was determined at the end of the rearing period. On day 42, the footpads of 100 broilers were grossly examined and assigned a lesion score in a 1-3 scale (Almeida Paz & Martins, 2014). Three samples per score within treatment were collected for microscopic evaluation. Analysis of variance was applied and performance parameter means were compared by Tukey's test. Footpad lesion incidence was analyzed by the c2 test using SAS (version8.2). Ross(r) broilers presented higher feed intake during all evaluated periods, and higher weight gain only in the period 1 to 21 days compared with Cobb(r) broilers. On the other hand, Cobb(r) presented better feed conversion ratio in the periods of 1 to 35 and 1 to 42 days. The incidence of foot pad lesions was statistically different (p < 0.05) between strains and sexes, but there were no interactions between these factors. The lesion scores assigned were compatible with the histopathological results, showing that the higher the score, the more severe were the dermal and epidermal lesions.

Footpad dermatitis in broilers: differences between strains and gender

Pododermatitis, also known as "bumblefoot", is an inflammatory lesion of the footpad. The objective of this study was to evaluate the influence of genetic strain and sex on the incidence of footpad lesions in broilers. The experiment was carried out at São Paulo State University, using 480 broilers distributed in a completely randomized experimental design in a 2X2 factorial arrangement (2 strains X2 sexes), with four replicates of 30 broilers each, totaling 16 experimental units. Feed intake, weight gain, feed conversion ratio, and livability were evaluated at 21, 35 and 42 days of age; production efficiency factor was determined at the end of the rearing period. On day 42, the footpads of 100 broilers were grossly examined and assigned a lesion score in a 1-3 scale (Almeida Paz & Martins, 2014). Three samples per score within treatment were collected for microscopic evaluation. Analysis of variance was applied and performance parameter means were compared by Tukey's test. Footpad lesion incidence was analyzed by the c2 test using SAS (version8.2). Ross(r) broilers presented higher feed intake during all evaluated periods, and higher weight gain only in the period 1 to 21 days compared with Cobb(r) broilers. On the other hand, Cobb(r) presented better feed conversion ratio in the periods of 1 to 35 and 1 to 42 days. The incidence of foot pad lesions was statistically different (p < 0.05) between strains and sexes, but there were no interactions between these factors. The lesion scores assigned were compatible with the histopathological results, showing that the higher the score, the more severe were the dermal and epidermal lesions.(AU)