Histomorphometry of muscle fibers in breast fillets of broilers with wooden breast myopathy

Wooden breast myopathy (WB) strongly affects the poultry industry mainly in terms of consumers rejection and economical loses, due to morphological changes in broiler muscle tissue and consequently low meat quality. The aim of this study is to evaluate the histomorphometry of muscle fibers of breast fillets of broilers with severity levels of WB myopathy. The histological evaluation considered 30 samples of the pectoralis major muscle and the level of WB myopathy (ten normal fillets, ten moderate fillets, and ten severe fillets). Fillets with a severe level of WB present low average fiber number, high average fiber diameter, low percentage of fibers with diameter of less than 20 µm, low percentage of fibers with diameter between 20 and 40 µm, and high percentage of fibers with diameter between 40 and 70 µm. Fiber cross-sectional area is greater in fillets affected by moderate and severe WB. Thus, fillets with a severe level of WB damage the muscle fiber structure and contribute more severely to the degenerative processes of breast meat.(AU)

Molecular detection of Sarcocystis spp. in the breast muscle of captive birds from the southern region of Brazil / Detecção molecular de Sarcocystis spp. no músculo peitoral de aves de cativeiro da região sul do Brasil

Studies on diseases of wild birds are essential in the context of public health, as these animals act as sentinels, allowing information regarding a determined geographic area. In addition, birds are food protein sources for animals, and therefore play an important role in the life cycle of the protozoan Sarcocystis spp. This study aimed to identify the Sarcocystis spp. in breast muscle samples of naturally infected captive birds. The breast muscle of 89 birds were sampled, and the DNA amplified by PCR targeting the 18S ribosomal RNA gene to detect Sarcocystis spp. PCR products were sequenced and 5.61% (5/89) samples showed 100% similarity with Sarcocystis spp. (one Cyanoliseus patagonus, one Psittacula krameri, two Pyrrhura frontalis, and one Ramphastos dicolorus). The large number of naturally infected species analyzed by molecular methods allowed the detection of Sarcocystis spp. in different bird species, corroborating the epidemiology of Sarcocystis spp.

Estudos sobre doenças de aves silvestres são essenciais no contexto da saúde pública, pois esses animais atuam como sentinelas, permitindo obter informações sobre uma determinada área geográfica. Além disso, as aves são fontes de proteína alimentar para os animais e, portanto, desempenham um papel importante no ciclo de vida do Sarcocystis. Este estudo teve como objetivo identificar Sarcocystis spp. nos músculos do peito de aves de cativeiro naturalmente infectadas. Os músculos do peito de 89 aves foram coletados, e o DNA amplificado pela PCR do gene RNA ribossômico 18S para detecção de Sarcocystis spp. Os produtos da PCR foram sequenciados e 5,61% (5/89) amostras apresentaram 100% de similaridade com o Sarcocystis spp. (um Cyanoliseus patagonus, um Psittacula krameri, dois Pyrrhura frontalis e um Ramphastos dicolorus). O grande número de espécies naturalmente infectadas analisadas por métodos moleculares permitiu a detecção de Sarcocystis spp. em diferentes espécies de aves, corroborando a epidemiologia de Sarcocystis spp.

Polysaccharide storage myopathy in two Percheron horses / Miopatia por acúmulo de polissacarídeo em dois equinos da raça Percheron

Polysaccharide storage myopathy (PSSM) is a genetic disorder or by undetermined cause characterized by the abnormal accumulation of glycogen and polysaccharides in skeletal muscle fibers. The present report describes two Percheron horses, from different properties in the municipality of Pouso Redondo -SC, with locomotor clinical signs that started after work. The clinical signs observed were rigid gait, mainly of the pelvic limbs, muscle weakness, and recumbency. In the first case, the animal was diagnosed with severe multifocal rhabdomyonecrosis, moderate multifocal myoglobin nephrosisand severe diffuse transmural fibrinonecrotic gastritis. PSSM was confirmed by the presence of polysaccharide inclusions in myofiber sarcolemma visualized by periodic acid-Schiff (PAS) staining. In the second case, the horse presented two episodes ofmuscle disorder after work. The therapeutic protocol was based on penicillin, flunixin meglumine and fluid therapy with ringer lactate. An increase in creatine kinase (669.0 UI/L) and aspartate aminotransferase (669.0 UI/L) was observed in the serum biochemical evaluation. Research for mutation in the GYS1 gene was performed, with a positive heterozygote result. After rest and gradual recovery, the horse was only submitted to light work, with no return of the clinical condition since then. Thus, this report describes two cases of PSSM with distinct clinical evolution and diagnostic methods.(AU)

A miopatia por acúmulo de polissacarídeos (PSSM) é uma desordem genética ou de causa indeterminada caracterizada pelo acúmulo anormal de glicogênio e polissacarídeos nas fibras musculares esqueléticas. O presente relato descreve dois cavalos Percheron, oriundos de diferentes propriedades do município de Pouso Redondo ­SC, com sinais clínicos locomotores que iniciaram após o trabalho. Os sinais clínicos observados foram marcha rígida, principalmente dos membros pélvicos, fraqueza muscular, e decúbito. No primeiro caso, o animal foi diagnosticado com rabdomionecrose multifocal acentuada, nefrose mioglobínica multifocal moderada e gastrite fibrinonecrótica transmural difusa acentuada. A PSSM foi confirmada pela presença de inclusões polissacarídicas no sarcolema de miofibras visualizadas pela coloração com ácido periódico de Schiff (PAS). No segundo caso, o equino apresentou dois episódios de disfunção muscular após o trabalho. O protocolo terapêutico foi baseado em penicilina, flunixin megluminee fluidoterapia com ringer lactato. Um aumento de creatina quinase (669,0 UI/L) e aspartato aminotransferase (669,0 UI/L) foi observado na avaliação bioquímica sérica. Foi realizada pesquisa de mutação nogene GYS1, com resultado heterozigoto positivo. Após repouso e recuperação gradual, o cavalo foi submetido apenas a trabalhos leves, sem retorno do quadro clínico desde então. Assim, este relato descreve dois casos com PSSM com evolução clínica e métodos diagnósticos distintos.(AU)

Concomitant occurrence of multicentric hemangiosarcoma and histiocytic sarcoma in a dog

Histiocytic sarcoma (HS) is uncommon malignant neoplasia of round cells with marked predilection in Rottweiler and Bernese Mountain. The disseminated form, which mainly affects the spleen, lungs, lymph nodes, bone marrow, skin, and subcutis, presents a quick and aggressive clinical behavior. Hemangiosarcoma (HAS) is a malignant neoplasm of endothelial vessel cells commonly reported to affect the right atrium of dogs' hearts. A male Rottweiler, five years old, presented flaccid paraplegia and progressive muscular atrophy in the temporal, masseter, and limbs muscles; Due to the clinical stage of the animal, euthanasia was conducted. During the necroscopic examination, it was noticed that several masses presented different sizes; some were whitish, and others were reddish and spread in multiple organs (lungs, heart, spleen, stomach, kidneys, brain, medulla, skeletal muscle, and pre-scapular lymph node). Microscopically, in some organs such as the stomach, right ventricle, lungs, and medulla, it was noticed a proliferation of myeloid cells, highly cellular, with poor demarcation, no encapsulation, and with the infiltrative growth pattern of cells with high pleomorphism. Numerous tumoral emboli were observed in the spleen, brain, skeletal muscle, and lymph node. These cells were submitted for immunohistochemistry and were positive for CD18 (HS antibody). In the right atrium, liver, and kidney it was observed malignant and infiltrative endothelial proliferation (HSA) and emboli in the medulla. Therefore, we conclude that both neoplasms (HS and HSA) cause the animal's paraplegia due to their embolism and metastasis to the spinal cord and skeletal muscle.(AU)

Clinico-pathological and immunohistochemical findings in a case of bovine cutaneous angiomatosis in a Holstein heifer / Achados clínico-patológicos e imuno-histoquímicos em um caso de angiomatose cutânea bovina em uma novilha Holandesa

Bovine cutaneous angiomatosis (BCA) is a rare condition characterized by vasoproliferative skin lesions mainly affecting cattle in the northern hemisphere. An eight-month-old Holstein heifer showed two skin easy-bleeding nodules bulging from the epidermis in the forehead and close to the right prescapular region. Skin lesions were within the dermis and had an irregular surface and a soft heterogeneous reddish parenchyma composed of numerous variable-sized arterioles, veins, and capillaries surrounded by abundant collagenous fibrous tissue. Immunohistochemical assays evidenced endothelial cells lining proliferative vascular structure immunolabeled for CD31 and Von Willebrand factor, and vascular smooth muscle cells immunostained for smooth muscle actin. All clinical, pathological, and immunohistochemical features observed in the Holstein heifer were hallmarks of BCA. Considering its potential for hereditary spread, BCA must be included in the differential diagnosis of easily bleeding skin nodules that do not respond to routine topical wound treatments to prevent its spread in Brazilian herds.

A angiomatose cutânea bovina (ACB) é uma condição rara caracterizada por lesões vasoproliferativas na pele que afetam principalmente bovinos do hemisfério norte. Uma novilha Holandesa de oito meses de idade apresentou dois nódulos cutâneos protuberantes na epiderme, que apresentavam fácil sangramento localizados na fronte e próximo à região pré-escapular direita. As lesões cutâneas dérmicas tinham uma superfície irregular e um parênquima avermelhado heterogêneo macio composto por numerosas arteríolas, veias e capilares de tamanho variável circundadas por tecido fibroso colagenoso abundante. O exame imuno-histoquímico evidenciou células endoteliais revestindo a estrutura vascular proliferativa imunomarcadas para CD31 e fator de Von Willebrand, e células vasculares de músculo liso imunomarcadas para actina de músculo liso. Todas as características clínicas, patológicas e imuno-histoquímicas observadas na novilha Holandesa foram características da ACB. Considerando seu potencial de disseminação hereditária, a ACB deve ser incluída no diagnóstico diferencial dos nódulos cutâneos de fácil sangramento que não respondem aos tratamentos tópicos de rotina para evitar sua disseminação nos rebanhos brasileiros.

Polineuropatia motora em cão adulto / Motor polyneuropathy in an adult dog

Background: Nonambulatory flaccid tetraparesis can be the result of diseases of the peripheral nervous system and it is characterized by generalized lower motor neuron (LMN) signs, as weakness, tetraparesis/tetraplegia, decreased muscle tone and reflexes. The term polyneuropathy is used for dysfunction of multiple peripheral nerves. In Brazil, there are several etiologies for polyneuropathy in dogs, such as acute idiopathic polyradiculoneuritis, botulism and myasthenia gravis. Toxoplasma gondii is an uncommon cause of LMN diseases in dogs. The aim of this report was to describe a case of flaccid tetraplegia toxoplasmosis in an adult dog with a Toxoplasma gondii serology with a markedly elevated IgG titer of 1:4096. Case: A 4-year-old intact mongrel male dog, weighing 19.6 kg, was referred to the Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital of the Universidade Estadual de Londrina (UEL) with a 5-day history of weakness that progressed to tetraparesis. Physical examination revealed no significant changes other than the dull and unkempt coat. Neurologic examination revealed severe tetraparesis that was worse in the pelvic limbs, with decreased muscle tone in all four limbs. Postural reactions and the interdigital reflex were absent in all four limbs, as was the patellar reflex, but pain perception was present. There were no clinical signs of dysfunction on examination of the cranial nerves. Laboratory tests were performed, and creatine kinase was elevated (819 U/L). Blood was drawn to look for antibodies to Toxoplasma gondii and Neospora caninum class IgG using the indirect immunofluorescence technique. The antibody titer for Toxoplasma gondii (IgG) was 1:4096. A chest radiograph was performed to look for megaesophagus, and a pulmonary pattern suggestive of mild diffuse pneumonia was observed. Treatment was performed with sulfamethoxazole and trimethoprim, and the dog's condition improved slightly. Discussion: Based on lower motor neuron findings, the neurologic lesion was localized in the nerve roots, peripheral nerves, neuromuscular junctions, or muscles. The most important diseases in the list of differential diagnoses were immune-mediated or infectious polyradiculoneuritis (toxoplasmosis, neosporosis), myasthenia gravis, toxic polyneuropathy (botulism, chronic organophosphate poisoning), and paraneoplastic polyneuropathy. Among these differential diagnoses, polyradiculoneuritis is one of the most common. It is an idiopathic inflammatory disease. Exposure to raccoon saliva (in the U.S.), vaccination, or infection have been proposed as precipitating causes, but the triggers of this disease remain unknown. Serology for neosporosis was negative, while IgG titers for toxoplasmosis were 1:4096. In a previous study, dogs with acute polyradiculoneuritis were more likely to have T. gondii IgG serum antibody titers than dogs without neurologic signs. Infection with the protozoa T. gondii and N. caninum can cause intense polyradiculoneuritis in dogs accompanied by myositis, especially in puppies. One treatment trial was based on the administration of sulfonamide-trimethoprim with pyrimethamine, whose efficacy in the treatment of toxoplasmosis in dogs has also been reported in the literature. Neurologic deficits improved slightly, and there is a possibility that certain signs may not disappear completely because of the permanent damage caused by inflammation of the nervous system, as observed in the present case. The case had the limitation that it was not possible to perform other laboratory tests to demonstrate histopathologically the presence of Toxoplasma gondii organisms in muscles or nerves. Recovery of normal function is less likely in protozoan polyradiculoneuritis than in noninfectious polyradiculoneuritis. Thus, in the present case, the main suspicion was polyradiculoneuritis secondary to toxoplasmosis. Although it is a rare condition, it is important to consider toxoplasmosis in dogs with LMN-type tetraparesis or tetraplegia.

Study of the mutation causing type 1 polysaccharide storage myopathy in a Mangalarga Marchador population used in breeding programs / Estudo da mutação causadora da miopatia por acúmulo de polissacarídeo tipo 1 em uma população de cavalos Mangalarga Marchador utilizados em programas de melhoramento

The Mangalarga Marchador (MM) breed, which originated in Brazil, constitutes the largest number of horses in the country. The animals are versatile and used in several sports because of major investments made for the genetic improve-ment of the breed. In recent decades, advances in molecular techniques enabled the identification of genetic diseases in hor-ses. Conducting molecular tests and determining the occurrence of mutations are fundamental for the early identification and prevention of abnormalities. Among the known genetic diseases that occur in horses, the c.926G>A mutation in the GYS1gene that causes type 1 polysaccharide storage myopathy (PSSM1) stands out, because it has been identified in several breeds of horses. Although myopathy is common in MM horses, the occurrence of the c.926G>A mutation in the GYS1 gene has not yet been evaluated. The lack of knowledge about the possible presence of PSSM1 averts the adoption of control measures to prevent the spread of the disease in MM horses. Therefore, the aim of this study was to verify the occurrence of the muta-tion that causes PSSM1 in MM horses used in breeding programs. Blood DNA was extracted and the region of the GYS1gene containing the mutation was amplified and sequenced. No mutation in the GYS1 gene was found in the evaluated sam-ples. However, since clinical signs of myopathy are frequently observed in MM horses, further studies, including histological analysis, are necessary to establish the underlying causes. In addition, if there is a genetic pattern of occurrence, molecular studies should be considered.(AU)

A raça Mangalarga Marchador (MM), originária do Brasil, constitui a raça de maior número de equinos no país. Os animais são versáteis e utilizados em diversos esportes devido aos seus grandes investimentos em melhoramento genético. Nas últimas décadas, o avanço das técnicas moleculares permitiu a identificação de doenças genéticas em cavalos. A realização de testes moleculares e a determinação da ocorrência de mutações são fundamentais para a identificação precoce e prevenção de anormalidades. Dentre as doenças genéticas conhecidas em equinos, destaca-se a mutação c.926G>A no gene GYS1 causadora da miopatia por acúmulo de polissacarídeo tipo 1 (PSSM1), pois foi identificada em diversas raças equinas. Embora a miopatia seja comum em cavalos MM, a ocorrência da mutação c.926G>A no gene GYS1 ainda não foi avaliada. A falta de conhecimento sobre a possível presença de PSSM1 inviabiliza a adoção de medidas de controle para prevenir a disseminação da doença em equinos MM. Portanto, o objetivo deste estudo foi verificar a ocorrência da mutação causadora de PSSM1 em cavalos MM utilizados em programas de melhoramento. O DNA sanguíneo foi extraído e a região do gene GYS1contendo a mutação foi amplificada e sequenciada. Nenhuma mutação no gene GYS1 foi encontrada nas amostras avaliadas. No entanto, como sinais clínicos de miopatia são frequentemente observados em cavalos com MM, mais estudos, incluindo análises histológicas, são necessários para estabelecer as causas subjacentes. Além disso, se houver um padrão genético de ocorrência, estudos moleculares devem ser considerados.(AU)

New species of Polystomoides (Monogenoidea: Polystomatidae) parasitizing the urinary bladder of a freshwater turtle in Brazil / Nova espécie de Polystomoides (Monogenoidea: Polystomatidae) parasitando a bexiga urinária de uma tartaruga de água doce no Brasil

Trachemys dorbigni is the most abundant freshwater turtle species in Rio Grande do Sul, southern Brazil. Chelonians are known to host a wide variety of pathogens, including viruses, bacteria, hemoparasites and helminths. Among these, nine genera of polystomatid flatworms (Monogenoidea; Polystomatidae) infect freshwater turtles: Apaloneotrema, Aussietrema, Fornixtrema, Manotrema, Pleurodirotrema, Polystomoidella, Polystomoides, Uropolystomoides and Uteropolystomoides. However, little is known about the biology of these parasites in the Neotropical Realm. Through investigative cystoscopy, specimens of Polystomatidae were located inside the urinary bladder of the host T. dorbigni. Retrieved specimens were fixed and stained whole mounts prepared for taxonomic identification. In the present paper, a new species of Polystomoides (Monogenoidea: Polystomatidae) parasitizing the urinary bladder of a freshwater turtle of the species T. dorbigni in Brazil is described. Polystomoides santamariensis n. sp. differs from the congeneric species on the length of the genital spines, which are longer. Given the enormous diversity of freshwater turtles around the world, it is likely that a large number of chelonian polystomatids are still unknown.(AU)

Trachemys dorbigni é a espécie de tartaruga de água doce mais abundante do Rio Grande do Sul, no Sul do Brasil. Sabe-se que os quelônios são hospedeiros de uma grande variedade de patógenos, incluindo vírus, bactérias, hemoparasitos e helmintos. Dentre estes, oito gêneros de Polystomatidae (Platyhelminthes: Monogenoidea) infectam tartarugas de água doce: Apaloneotrema, Aussietrema, Fornixtrema, Manotrema, Pleurodirotrema, Polystomoidella, Polystomoides, Uropolystomoides e Uteropolystomoides. No entanto, pouco ainda se sabe sobre a biologia destes parasitos na Região Neotropical. Durante uma citoscopia investigativa, foram observados espécimes de Polystomatidae localizados no interior da bexiga urinária de T. dorbigni. Os espécimes coletados foram fixados e corados para identificação taxonômica. No presente artigo, uma nova espécie de Polystomoides (Monogenoidea: Polystomatidae) parasitando a bexiga urinária de tartaruga de água doce da espécie T. dorbigni no Brasil é descrita. Polystomoides santamariensis n. sp. difere das demais espécies no tamanho dos espinhos genitais, que são maiores. Devido a enorme diversidade de tartarugas de água doce ao redor do mundo, é provável que um grande número de polistomatídeos de quelônios ainda seja desconhecido.(AU)

Complete bladder eversion in periparturient Nellore cow: case report / Eversão completa de bexiga no pré-parto em vaca Nelore: relato de caso

Partial or complete bladder eversion is a rare condition of poor prognosis in cows, commonly associated with intense tenesmus observed in the peripartum period. A 14-year-old obese Nellore cow at 280 days of gestation was referred with 24-hour bladder prolapse. The bladder was complete eversion through the vulvar vestibule showing a thick congested wall and small residual urine volume. After clinical examination, the cow received scopolamine butylbromide and intercoccygeal epidural anesthesia, and the externalized bladder segment was partially reduced, remaining only 10 cm externalized. The cow was maintained with an intravesical human gastric tube number 16 and constant monitoring. The eversion was fully reduced after 12 hours of local treatment, and as the cow presented subclinical ketosis, hypocalcemia and cystitis, antibiotic, glucose, calcium and propylene glycol therapy were performed. We opted for induction of parturition, and after 24 hours, a healthy 52kg calf was born and the placenta was delivered 16 hours after calving. The cow and calf were discharged on the sixth day of hospitalization, with no recurrences or secondary complications after treatment.

A eversão vesical parcial ou completa é uma condição rara de mau prognóstico em vacas, comumente associada a tenesmo intenso observado no período periparto. Uma vaca Nelore obesa de 14 anos de idade, com 280 dias de gestação, foi encaminhada com prolapso de bexiga de 24 horas. A bexiga apresentava eversão completa por meio do vestíbulo vulvar apresentando parede espessa e congestionada e pequeno volume residual de urina. Após exame clínico, a vaca recebeu butilbrometo de escopolamina e anestesia peridural intercoccígea, e o segmento vesical exteriorizado foi parcialmente reduzido, permanecendo apenas 10cm exteriorizado. A vaca foi mantida com sonda gástrica humana número 16 por via intravesical e monitorada constantemente. A eversão foi totalmente reduzida após 12 horas de tratamento local, e, como a vaca apresentava cetose subclínica, hipocalcemia e cistite, foi realizada antibioticoterapia, glicose, cálcio e propilenoglicol. Optou-se pela indução do parto. Após 24 horas, nasceu um bezerro saudável de 52kg e a placenta foi expelida 16 horas após o parto. A vaca e o bezerro receberam alta no sexto dia de internação, sem recidivas ou complicações secundárias após o tratamento.

Relationship Between Pre-Slaughter Factors and Major Causes of Carcass Condemnation in a Broiler Slaughterhouse under Federal Inspection

This study aimed to investigate the relationship between pre-slaughter factors and major causes of total or partial carcass condemnation in a broiler slaughterhouse under federal inspection. Data on total and partial carcass condemnations between 2018 and 2020 were collected from 10 broiler farms supplying a slaughterhouse located in northern Paraná State, Brazil. The total sample comprised 2,562,642 birds. The pre-slaughter factors analyzed were age at slaughter, stocking density, weight at slaughter, feed conversion, and mortality.Associations between causes of condemnation and pre-slaughter factors were analyzed using a generalized linear model with negative binomial distribution, a generalized linear model with quasi-Poisson distribution, and a generalized linear mixed model with Poisson distribution. Total carcass condemnations were mostly due to repugnant appearance (48.67%) and arthritis (26.56%), whereas partial carcass condemnations were mainly due to arthritis (31.02%), bruising (27.97%), and myopathies (15.18%). Mean age and stocking density were the pre-slaughter factors that most contributed to increasing total and partial condemnation rates, indicating that reducing stocking density and age at slaughter might be important strategies for minimizing economic losses associated with carcass condemnation.(AU)

Antiparkinsoniano para tratamento de sequelas neurológicas causadas pela cinomose / Antiparkinsonian for treatment of neurological sequels caused by canine distemper

Background: Canine distemper (CD) is a highly contagious viral disease caused by the canine distemper virus (CDV). In dogs, CDV infection is characterized by the presentation of systemic and/or neurological signs with viral persistence in some organs, including the central nervous system (CNS). Neurological damages resulting from CD are a defiance for veterinarians, due to occasioned clinical sequels that influence the patient quality of life. The treatment of sequelae should seek to promote the resolution or decrease of the deleterious effects that impede the patient independence. Thus, the present report aims to describe the action of antiparkinsonian medication (levodopa associated with carbidopa) administered to 3 dogs who presented neurological sequels resulting from the canine distemper. Cases: Dog 1. A 9-month-old male mixed breed; Dog 2. A 6-month-old male Shih Tzu. Dog 3. A 8-years-old bitch mixed breed. All animals were referred for neurological care because presented neurological damages after distemper involvement. Only the Dog 2 was vaccinated to CD. Dog 1 (mixed male) had severe myoclonus, lack of proprioception, decreased of muscle tonus and paralysis in both pelvic limbs, associated with a marked thoracolumbar kyphosis. Dog 2 (a puppy Shih Tzu male) presented myoclonus in PL, proprioceptive loss in thoracic and pelvic limbs, absence of withdrawal reflex in thoracic and pelvic limbs, decrease in muscle tonus in pelvic limb and increase in thoracic limb. Dog 3 (adult unneutered bitch) presented intense myoclonus, absence of proprioception, decrease in muscle tonus and paresis of pelvic limb. All patients were treated with antiparkinsonian medication (levodopa 250 mg associated with carbidopa 25 mg) with following dosages: Dog 1 received a commercially available tablet, orally once a day for 30 days, while Dogs 2 and 3 had doses calculated by extrapolation allometric. For the Dog 2 it was prescribed 0.25 mg of levodopa and 0.025 mg of carbidopa daily for 30 days. Dog 3 was treated with 1 mg of levodopa and 0.1 mg of carbidopa patient day for the same period. Thirty days after starting the treatment, the 3 patients were evaluated again, and showed improvement of the motor signs, and the treatment was maintained. At the next return (30 days): Dog 1 showed significant improvement, however, Dog 2 started to present epileptic seizures and nystagmus that were treated with levetiracetam, while the Dog 3 not returned. As Dog 1 had a better prognosis, treatment was maintained for 1 year, with the frequency being changed from 24 h x 24 h to 48 h x 48 h after 30 days and 72x72 h after another 30 days. Unfortunately, Dog 2 had a worsening of epileptic condition and died, while Dog 3 died by road-kill. Discussion: The cases reported are uncommon, because not exist information about the use of antiparksonian to treatment of neurological damages occasioned by canine distemper. Although there are emerging therapies, such as the use of mesenchymal stem cells, that can reduce these sequels, the access is still restricted to a few professionals. Thus, the use of medications for demyelinating diseases, as antiparkinsonian, may be an alternative. In fact, the three reported patients showed recovery of the motor and sensorial damages observed, which corroborates with the possibility of a new treatment using antiparkinsonian or other drugs to demyelinating diseases.

Outbreaks of Neoechinorhynchus buttnerae (Acanthocephala) infection in raised semi-intensively Colossoma macropomumin Theobroma, Rondônia state, Western Amazon / Surtos de infecção por Neoechinorhynchus buttnerae (Acanthocephala) em Colossoma macropomum cultivado semi-intensivamente em Theobroma, estado de Rondônia, Amazônia Ocidental

The aim of this study was to describe two outbreaks of Neoechinorhynchus buttnerae parasitizing Colossoma macropomum raised semi-intensively in the Theobroma municipality, Rondônia state, Brazil. It was reported by owner that the animals had a history of poor weight gain and decreased food intake. C. macropomum that weighed around 1.5 kg were clinically evaluated where the body surface, fins, buccal and brachial cavity were carefully analyzed and no changes were found. N. buttnerae was the only intestinal parasite found in the specimens studied, and its distribution pattern showes a preference for the posterior portion of the intestine of C. macropomum. All 50 fish examined were parasitized by at least one N. buttnerae. This parasite was found in the digestive system of the examined fish. 100% of prevalence, 430 of intensity, 8.6 of average intensity and average abundance were found. Although there was no record of mortalities due to acanthocephalosis, damage that compromised the feed conversion of the fish was recorded. C. macropomum were infected by ingesting a crustacean containing cystacanth, the infective larval form of the parasite. Damage, such as presence of nodules, hypertrophy of goblet cells, thickening of the muscle layer, metaplasia in muscle tissue, severe edema from leukocyte infiltration in blood vessels and necrotic foci, were found in the intestine due to high infection rates of N. buttnerae. That said, inspection activities are essential for the preservation of consumer and animal health.(AU)

O objetivo deste estudo foi descrever dois surtos de Neoechinorhynchus buttnerae parasitando Colossoma macropo-mum em cultivo semi-intensivo no município de Theobroma, estado de Rondônia, Brasil. Foi relatado pelo proprietário que os animais apresentavam histórico de baixo ganho de peso e diminuição da ingestão alimentar. C. macropomum que pesavam em torno de 1,5 kg foram avaliados clinicamente onde a superfície corporal, nadadeiras, cavidade bucal e braquial foram cui-dadosamente analisadas e não foram encontradas alterações. N. buttnerae foi o único parasita intestinal encontrado nos espé-cimes estudados, e seu padrão de distribuição mostra uma preferência pela porção posterior do intestino do C. macropomum. Todos os 50 peixes examinados estavam parasitados por pelo menos um N. buttnerae. Este parasita foi encontrado no sistema digestivo dos peixes examinados. Foram encontrados 100% de prevalência, 430 de intensidade, 8,6 de intensidade média e de abundância média. Apesar de não haver registro de mortalidade por acantocefalose, foram registrados danos que comprome-teram a conversão alimentar dos peixes. C. macropomum foram infectados pela ingestão de um crustáceo contendo cistacanto, a forma larval infectante do parasita. No intestino foram encontrados danos como presença de nódulos, hipertrofia de células caliciformes, espessamento da camada muscular, metaplasia no tecido muscular, edema grave por infiltração leucocitária nos vasos sanguíneos e focos necróticos devido às altas taxas de infecção de N. buttnerae. Dito isso, as atividades de fiscalização são essenciais para a preservação da saúde do consumidor e do animal.(AU)

Abdominal ultrasound in amazonian manatee (Trichechus inunguis) (Natterer, 1883) / Ultrassonografia abdominal em peixe boi amazônico (Trichechus inunguis (Natterer, 1883)

Morphophysiological species researches are fundamental, and diagnostic imaging is an excellent technique, already used in wild animals, with great application, not invasive and provide real-time information of each body. Amazonian manatees are on the list of endangered animals classified in the vulnerable category and knowledge of the normal pattern of ultrasound anatomy of organs and tissues is important for the maintenance and well-being of captive specimens contributing to reintroduction actions. The objective of the study was to standardize the examination technique and describe the ultrasound findings of the liver, gallbladder, stomach, urinary bladder and the subcutaneous tissue of the abdominal region in Trichechus inunguis, in order to contribute with the anatomical and sonographic knowledge and assist in the diagnosis and prognosis diseases. The study used 18 animals to describe the normal sonographic anatomy in the abdominal cavity of the Amazonian manatee. During abdominal scan, it was possible to visualize the features of the liver, gallbladder, stomach, urinary bladder obtained satisfactory results in this study. Therefore, other structures were not primarily identified by the reduced time, lots of fat and gases in intestines of animals.

Pesquisas morfofisiológicas em espécies selvagens são fundamentais, e o diagnóstico por imagem é uma excelente técnica, já usada e com grande aplicação, não invasiva e que fornece informações em tempo real de cada órgão. Peixes-boi-amazônico encontram-se na lista de animais ameaçados de extinção classificados na categoria vulnerável e o conhecimento do padrão normal da anatomia ultrassonográfica de órgãos e tecidos é importante para a manutenção e bem-estar de espécimes em cativeiro contribuindo para ações de reintrodução. O objetivo deste estudo foi padronizar a técnica de exame e descrever os achados ultrassonográficos do fígado, vesícula biliar, estômago, vesícula urinária e o tecido subcutâneo da região abdominal em Trichechus inunguis, de modo a contribuir com o conhecimento anátomo-sonográfico e auxiliar no diagnóstico e prognóstico de doenças. O estudo utilizou 18 animais para descrever a anatomia ultrassonográfica normal na cavidade abdominal de peixe-boi amazônico. Durante a varredura abdominal foi possível visualizar as características dos órgãos obtendo resultados satisfatórios neste estudo, concluindo ser uma técnica eficiente para avaliação de determinados órgãos abdominais em peixe-boi amazônico. Entretanto, outras estruturas não foram identificadas principalmente pelo tempo reduzido, muita gordura e gases nos intestinos dos animais.

Abdominal ultrasound in amazonian manatee (Trichechus inunguis) (Natterer, 1883) / Ultrassonografia abdominal em peixe boi amazônico (Trichechus inunguis (Natterer, 1883)

Morphophysiological species researches are fundamental, and diagnostic imaging is an excellent technique, already used in wild animals, with great application, not invasive and provide real-time information of each body. Amazonian manatees are on the list of endangered animals classified in the vulnerable category and knowledge of the normal pattern of ultrasound anatomy of organs and tissues is important for the maintenance and well-being of captive specimens contributing to reintroduction actions. The objective of the study was to standardize the examination technique and describe the ultrasound findings of the liver, gallbladder, stomach, urinary bladder and the subcutaneous tissue of the abdominal region in Trichechus inunguis, in order to contribute with the anatomical and sonographic knowledge and assist in the diagnosis and prognosis diseases. The study used 18 animals to describe the normal sonographic anatomy in the abdominal cavity of the Amazonian manatee. During abdominal scan, it was possible to visualize the features of the liver, gallbladder, stomach, urinary bladder obtained satisfactory results in this study. Therefore, other structures were not primarily identified by the reduced time, lots of fat and gases in intestines of animals.(AU)

Pesquisas morfofisiológicas em espécies selvagens são fundamentais, e o diagnóstico por imagem é uma excelente técnica, já usada e com grande aplicação, não invasiva e que fornece informações em tempo real de cada órgão. Peixes-boi-amazônico encontram-se na lista de animais ameaçados de extinção classificados na categoria vulnerável e o conhecimento do padrão normal da anatomia ultrassonográfica de órgãos e tecidos é importante para a manutenção e bem-estar de espécimes em cativeiro contribuindo para ações de reintrodução. O objetivo deste estudo foi padronizar a técnica de exame e descrever os achados ultrassonográficos do fígado, vesícula biliar, estômago, vesícula urinária e o tecido subcutâneo da região abdominal em Trichechus inunguis, de modo a contribuir com o conhecimento anátomo-sonográfico e auxiliar no diagnóstico e prognóstico de doenças. O estudo utilizou 18 animais para descrever a anatomia ultrassonográfica normal na cavidade abdominal de peixe-boi amazônico. Durante a varredura abdominal foi possível visualizar as características dos órgãos obtendo resultados satisfatórios neste estudo, concluindo ser uma técnica eficiente para avaliação de determinados órgãos abdominais em peixe-boi amazônico. Entretanto, outras estruturas não foram identificadas principalmente pelo tempo reduzido, muita gordura e gases nos intestinos dos animais.(AU)

Puerarin alleviated oxidative stress and ferroptosis during renal fibrosis induced by ischemia/reperfusion injury via TLR4/Nox4 pathway in rats

Purpose: To investigate the role of puerarin on renal fibrosis and the underlying mechanism in renal ischemia and reperfusion (I/R) model. Methods: Rats were intraperitoneally injected with puerarin (50 or 100 mg/kg) per day for one week before renal I/R. The level of renal collagen deposition and interstitial fibrosis were observed by hematoxylin and eosin and Sirius Red staining, and the expression of α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) was examined by immunohistochemical staining. The ferroptosis related factors and TLR4/Nox4-pathway-associated proteins were detected by Western blotting. Results: Puerarin was observed to alleviate renal collagen deposition, interstitial fibrosis and the α-SMA expression induced by I/R. Superoxide dismutase (SOD) activities and glutathione (GSH) level were decreased in I/R and hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R), whereas malondialdehyde (MDA) and Fe2+ level increased. However, puerarin reversed SOD, MDA, GSH and Fe2+ level changes induced by I/R and H/R. Besides, Western blot indicated that puerarin inhibited the expression of ferroptosis related factors in a dose-dependent manner, which further demonstrated that puerarin had the effect to attenuate ferroptosis. Moreover, the increased expression of TLR/Nox4-pathway-associated proteins were observed in I/R and H/R group, but puerarin alleviated the elevated TLR/Nox4 expression. Conclusions: Our results suggested that puerarin inhibited oxidative stress and ferroptosis induced by I/R and, thus, delayed the progression of renal fibrosis, providing a new target for the treatment of renal fibrosis.

Adenocarcinoma pancreático em um gato / Pancreatic adenocarcinoma in a cat

Background: Despite being rare in domestic animals, pancreatic adenocarcinoma is the most common malignant tumor of the feline pancreas. Due non-specificity of clinical signs in cats and the late diagnosis of the neoplasm, it is necessary to understand this disease better, to contribute for the knowledge of its early recognition and treatment. Thus, this study aims to report a case of metastatic pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma in a cat, focusing on the main clinical aspects, diagnosis, and prognosis of this disease, in addition to the description of the presentation of peritoneal carcinomatosis. Case: A 14-year-old male neutered mixed breed cat, was referred to the Feline Medicine Service (MedFel) of the Hospital de Clínicas Veterinárias (HCV) - Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Porto Alegre, RS, with a history of hyporexia, constipation and increased abdominal volume for 3 days, besides mild difficulty in locomotion and progressive weight loss in the last 6 months. On the physical examination, the patient was alert, with a body condition score of 6/9; muscle condition score 1/4 and moderate dehydration of 7%. Popliteal lymph nodes were enlarged, and abdominal distension was evident. Around 200 mL of a slightly cloudy, straw-yellow liquid were drained from the abdominal cavity. After draining the fluid, a new abdominal palpation was performed, and there were fecal retention and a palpable mass in the right hypogastric region. The result of the cytological analysis of the fluid was consistent with a protein-rich transudate, suggesting neoplastic effusion of epithelial origin. Hematological and biochemical changes included leukocytosis due to neutrophilia, monocytosis, lymphopenia, thrombocytosis and azotemia. On abdominal ultrasound, the patient had free fluid in the abdominal cavity, and the gallbladder had discreet of biliary sludge. The intestines showed some corrugated segments with other segments lacking definition of its layers, and without peristaltic movements, suggesting intestinal neoplasia. Pancreas and adrenals were not visualized. On the chest X-ray, moderate opacification of lung fields with a diffuse interstitial pattern was observed, suggesting lung metastasis. The patient presented an acute worsening of the clinical condition and the owner requested euthanasia. The patient was referred for necropsy and based on the macroscopic and microscopic changes, the post-mortem diagnosis was metastatic pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma with peritoneal carcinomatosis. Discussion: The clinical presentation of cats with exocrine pancreatic neoplasia is nonspecific, as clinical signs are common to several diseases, such as anorexia, vomiting, abdominal pain, weight loss with normal appetite, jaundice, depression, and lethargy. Complementary blood tests also do not provide data that could lead to the suspicion of pancreatic neoplastic disease. In the present case, the diagnosis of metastatic pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma with peritoneal carcinomatosis was only possible post mortem. The pancreas is a difficult organ to assess adequately using most diagnostic imaging methods, so histopathology is still the method of choice for differentiating pancreatic tissue comorbidities. Therefore, exploratory laparotomy should be instituted to provide tissue samples from the pancreas and its metastases for histopathological diagnosis, whenever ultrasound or other imaging methods indicate suspicious abdominal changes. The literature reports that less than 10% of affected cats treated with complete surgical removal of the mass and chemotherapy alone will survive more than a year, and the average time for untreated cats is only 6 days. The prognosis of this disease is bad and most cats are euthanized, due to rapid clinical worsening. Therefore, diagnosis is essential to determine an adequate prognosis in advanced cases and to support therapeutic decisions or euthanasia.

Hemoperitoneum in a cow with lumbar muscle hemangiosarcoma

Background: Hemangiosarcoma is a malignant neoplasm of endothelial cells with an infiltrative growth pattern. Hemangiosarcomas are frequently reported in canines and rare in felines, sheep, goats, swine, horses and cattle. Few cases of hemangiosarcoma were reported in cattle. In the present report, we describe the clinicopathological findings of a bovine muscle hemangiosarcoma. Case: A 6-year-old, Girolando cow from the Dairy Cattle Sector of the Federal Rural University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRRJ), Seropédica, presented sternal decubitus. Clinical signs were markedly pale mucous membranes, moderate dehydration, respiratory distress, and increased heart rate. The hematological examination revealed intense regenerative anemia. Due to the worsening of the clinical condition, the cow was submitted to euthanasia. The necropsy and collection of various fragments of organs were performed, which were sent to the "Setor de Anatomia Patológica" (SAP-UFRRJ). Tissues were fixed in 10 % buffered formalin, routinely processed for histology and stained with Hematoxylin and Eosin (HE). The external mucous membranes were markedly pale. Multifocal areas of 1.5 x 1.0 cm, irregular and dark red were observed dissecting the quadratus lumborum muscle (hemangiosarcoma) fibers. These neoplasms were associated with an extensive cruoric clot adhered to the muscle fibers. The extensive, red, friable mass measured approximately 76 x 55 x 20 cm on the serous surfaces of the organs of the peritoneal cavity (hemoperitoneum). The spleen was moderately reduced. The bone marrow was markedly pale. Histologically, it was observed that there was an extensive proliferation of endothelial cells in the quadratus lumbar muscle mass dissecting the epimysium and perimysium. Endothelial cells had moderate pleomorphism, organized in vascular channels and forming multifocally solid areas with a significant amount of eosinophilic fibrillar material (fibrin). Sections of muscle neoplasm were subjected to immunohistochemistry with anti-von Willebrand factor primary antibody, which showed a multifocal moderate cytoplasmic immunolabeling of neoplastic endothelial cells. Discussion: There are few reports of striated muscle hemangiosarcoma in cattle. Muscular hemangiosarcomas were reported in a 4-month-old calf in the left cervical trapezius muscle and a 6-year-old Holstein cow with left pelvic limb mass lateral and distal to the knee. Some reports presented hemangiosarcoma in the iliopsoas muscle, left cervical trapezius muscle, pelvic limb muscles and right cervical muscle of the bovine. In the presented report, hemoperitoneum occurred as a result of hemorrhages from muscle hemangiosarcoma. Other studies have demonstrated cavity hemorrhages in joint, pelvic, pleural and cranial cavities associated with hemangiosarcoma. Hemangiosarcoma with regenerative anemia must be distinguished from other diseases that cause anemia. The main differential diagnoses of bovine with anemia are vena cava syndrome, coumarin derivatives poisoning, acute poisoning by Pteridium spp., tick fever, anaplasmosis, babesiosis and trypanosomiasis. Hemangiosarcoma should be differentiated from other lesions as hemangioma, vascular tumor of lymphatic endothelium and perivascular wall tumors. Cases with poorly differentiated morphology should be submitted for immunohistochemistry. In the present hemangiosarcoma case, we have used the von Willebrand factor for immunohistochemistry diagnosis. Expression of angiogenic growth factors such as CD31, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) and angiopoietin-1 (Ang-1) have also been used in the diagnosis of vascular proliferation lesions. Hemangiosarcoma in cattle should be included mainly in the differential diagnosis of diseases that cause acute anemia in cattle.

Myonecrosis caused by Clostridium septicum in a horse from Southern Brazil / Mionecrose causada por Clostridium septicum em um cavalo do sul do Brasil

Clostridial myonecrosis is a highly fatal infectious disease of the muscle that is caused by pathogenic clostridia. When it occurs in equine muscle, the infection can cause a variety of clinical signs. The present report described a case of acute myonecrosis caused by Clostridium septicum in a horse, which had a favorable clinical evolution. A 6-year-old mare was admitted to a veterinary hospital due to increased volume and lameness in the left pelvic limb after an intramuscular injection of an anti-inflammatory drug. The diagnosis of myonecrosis caused by C. septicum was based on clinical and laboratory findings. The animal showed significant improvement after 5 months of treatment and was discharged from the hospital. There is very limited information regarding myonecrosis caused by C. septicum in horses in Brazil; our study showed that early diagnosis and prompt appropriate treatment can ensure significant improvement and recovery of affected animals.

Mionecroses clostridiais são doenças altamente fatais, causadas por uma ou mais espécies de Clostridium sp. patogênicos. Entretanto, no músculo equino, a infecção pode produzir uma variedade de lesões e sinais clínicos. O presente relato descreve um caso de mionecrose aguda em um cavalo causada por Clostridium septicum, que apresentou uma evolução clínica favorável. Uma égua de seis anos foi internada em um hospital veterinário devido a um aumento de volume e claudicação no membro pélvico esquerdo, observado após injeção intramuscular de anti-inflamatório. O diagnóstico de mionecrose por C. septicum foi baseado nos achados clínicos e laboratoriais. Houve uma melhora significativa do animal após cinco meses de tratamento, permitindo que o mesmo fosse liberado do hospital veterinário. Considerando que as informações sobre C. septicum causadores de mionecroses em cavalos no Brasil são muito limitadas, este relato demonstra que o diagnóstico precoce e a implementação adequada do tratamento podem garantir uma melhora significativa e a recuperação dos animais afetados.

Intertubular morphometric and ultrastructural testes analyses in mdx mice

Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD) reproductive alterations and the influence of antioxidant treatments may aid in understanding morphometry testicular quantification. In this context, the aim of the present study was to characterize the intertubular compartment (ITC) morphometry of animal testes in mdx mice supplemented with ascorbic acid (AA). Sixteen mice were used, namely the C57BL/10 (non-dystrophic) and C57BL/10Mdx (dystrophic) lineages, distributed into the following groups: Control (C60), Dystrophic (D60), Control supplemented with AA (CS60), Dystrophic supplemented with AA (DS60). A total of 200 mg/kg of AA were administered to mice for 30 days. Subsequently, the testicles were collected, weighed, and fragmented. The obtained fragments were fixed in Karnovsky's solution (pH 7.2) and embedded in historesin for morphometric and transmission electron microscopy assessments. Leydig cells were hypertrophic in the D60 group, but was reverted by AA supplementation in the DS60 group. The DS60 group also exhibited increased intertubular volume compared to the CS60 group. The ultrastructural images identified multilamellar bodies in dystrophic animals (lipid storage) and telocyte cells (transport substances) in both control and dystrophic animals. Morphometric alterations were, therefore, noted in the intertubular compartment due to Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), with AA administration capable of altering Leydig cells in this condition.(AU)

Cyclosporine A increases the intensity of Toxocara canis infection in swiss mice / Ciclosporina A aumenta a intensidade da infecção por Toxocara canis em camundongos suíços

Toxocariasis is a zoonotic disease of worldwide distribution. The connection between parasitic diseases and conditions that depress the immune system, such as the use of immunosuppressive drugs, has been studied. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of Cyclosporine A (CsA) on the intensity of infection, humoral response and gene transcription of interleukins IL-4, IL-10 and IL-12 in mice experimentally infected with Toxocara canis. To this end, mice were divided into two groups treated with CsA (G1: 10 mg/Kg and G2: 50 mg/kg), the G3 and G4 group received PBS. After the last administration of the drug or PBS (orally every 48 hours for 15 days), groups G1, G2 and G3 were inoculated with 1200 eggs of T. canis. Was collected blood samples on days zero, 15 and 30 days post-inoculation (PI), for ELISA test and the mice were euthanized 30 days PI. The organs and striated muscle tissue were collected for the recovery of larvae. The splenocytes were analyzed by RT-PCR. The intensity of infection in the mice treated with 50 mg/kg of CsA was 65.5% higher than in the control group (p=0.001). An analysis of the kinetics of anti-Toxocara antibody revealed that the groups treated with CsA showed significantly higher mean levels of antibodies on day 15 PI. The transcription of the three tested interleukins showed no statistical difference between G2 and G3 (control). It was concluded that the immunosuppression triggered by CsA (50 mg/Kg) favored the establishment of a larger number of T. canis larvae without, however, altering immunoglobulin production and IL-4, IL-10 and IL-12 transcription on day 30 PI.

A toxocaríase é uma zoonose de distribuição mundial. A conexão entre doenças parasitárias e condições que deprimem o sistema imunológico, como o uso de drogas imunossupressoras, tem sido estudada. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar o efeito da Ciclosporina A (CsA) na intensidade da infecção, resposta humoral e transcrição gênica das interleucinas IL-4, IL-10 e IL-12 em camundongos experimentalmente infectados com Toxocara canis. Para tanto, os camundongos foram divididos em dois grupos tratados com CsA (G1: 10 mg/Kg e G2: 50 mg/kg), os grupos G3 e G4 receberam PBS. Após a última administração da droga ou PBS (via oral a cada 48 horas por 15 dias), os grupos G1, G2 e G3 foram inoculados com 1200 ovos de T. canis. Foram coletadas amostras de sangue nos dias zero, 15 e 30 dias pós-inoculação (PI), para teste de ELISA e os camundongos foram eutanasiados 30 dias PI. Os órgãos e tecido muscular estriado foram coletados para a recuperação das larvas. Os esplenócitos foram analisados ​​por RT-PCR. A intensidade da infecção nos camundongos tratados com 50 mg/kg de CsA foi 65,5% maior do que no grupo controle (p=0,001). Uma análise da cinética do anticorpo anti-Toxocara revelou que os grupos tratados com CsA apresentaram níveis médios de anticorpos significativamente maiores no dia 15 PI. A transcrição das três interleucinas testadas não apresentou diferença estatística entre G2 e G3 (controle). Concluiu-se que a imunossupressão desencadeada pela CsA (50 mg/Kg) favoreceu o estabelecimento de um maior número de larvas de T. canis sem, no entanto, alterar a produção de imunoglobulinas e a transcrição de IL-4, IL-10 e IL-12 no dia 30 PI.