Myocarditis caused by Listeria monocytogenes in a dog.

BACKGROUND: Canine myocarditis can result from infection with bacteria Listeria monocytogenes. CASE REPORT: A 14-week-old female entire Staffordshire Bull Terrier was assessed for lethargy, inappetence and dyspnoea. Radiographs and echocardiography revealed fluid within the pericardial space, a plaque of marked hyperechogenicity within the right ventricular free wall, marked right atrial dilation and myocardial systolic dysfunction. Histopathology of the myocardium was consistent with severe pyogranulomatous myocarditis, with gram stain revealing gram-positive bacilli, consistent with a Listerial infection. Bacterial culture of the myocardium yielded a light growth of Listeria monocytogenes. CONCLUSION: To the best of the authors' knowledge, this is the first case of canine myocarditis caused by Listeria monocytogenes to be described and should be included as a differential diagnosis of myocarditis. Further, it prompts the consideration of potential zoonotic risks for veterinarians treating dogs with pericardial effusions.

Leucocyte adhesion deficiency III in a mixed-breed dog.

BACKGROUND: Leucocyte adhesion deficiencies are inherited disorders characterised by immunodeficiency leading to recurrent infections and a marked leucocytosis. We describe the clinical characteristics, diagnosis and management of an Australian mixed- breed dog with leucocyte adhesion deficiency III. CASE REPORT: A 16-month-old male, neutered, German Shepherd × Rottweiler dog was investigated for pyrexia, persistent leucocytosis, marked periodontal disease, lameness, increased mucosal haemorrhages and poor wound healing. Numerous diagnostics were performed including a leucocyte adhesion deficiency III PCR test, which was positive. The patient was managed with topical pressure at bleeding sites, antibiotics, analgesics and dental prophylaxis when required. DISCUSSION: Leucocyte adhesion deficiency III is a rare disorder that manifests because of impaired activation of beta integrins. This results in an absence of neutrophil chemotaxis and adhesion, and platelet dysfunction. Mutations within the KINDLIN3 gene resulting in the absence of the kindlin-3 protein have been identified as the cause of this disease. Leucocyte adhesion deficiency III has previously been reported in humans and a German Shepherd dog. This report describes the first reported case of leucocyte adhesion deficiency III in Australia and the first reported case in a mixed-breed dog worldwide.