Clinical and Genetic Findings in 28 American Cocker Spaniels with Aural Ceruminous Gland Hyperplasia and Ectasia.

American Cocker Spaniels (ACSs) develop aural ceruminous gland hyperplasia and ectasia more often than dogs of other breeds. Data on the cause and development of these breed characteristic histopathological changes are lacking. We performed video-otoscopic examinations and dermatological work-up on 28 ACSs, obtained aural biopsies from each dog and assessed the statistical associations between the presence of ceruminous gland hyperplasia and ectasia and disease history, clinical or microbiological findings and underlying cause of otitis externa (OE). Histological lesions of ceruminous gland hyperplasia and ectasia were observed in aural biopsies from 6/13 clinically healthy ears and 13/15 ears with OE from 19/28 examined dogs. Nine of 28 dogs had histologically normal ceruminous glands (odds ratio [OR] 6.2, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.1-36.6). Bacterial growth in microbiological culture of aural exudate (OR 14.1, 95% CI 2.1-95.3) was associated with ceruminous glandular changes, whereas previous history of OE, cutaneous findings or underlying allergies were not. Pedigree analysis and a genome-wide association study (GWAS) were performed on 18 affected and eight unaffected dogs based on histopathological diagnosis. While the GWAS indicated a tentative, but not statistically significant, association of ceruminous gland hyperplasia and ectasia with chromosome 31, a larger cohort is needed to confirm this preliminary result. Based on our results, ceruminous gland hyperplasia and ectasia may also precede clinical signs of OE in ACSs and a genetic aetiological component is likely Further studies with larger cohorts are warranted to verify our preliminary results.

Survey of otitis externa in American Cocker Spaniels in Finland.

BACKGROUND: American Cocker Spaniels are overrepresented among breeds that require surgery as a treatment of end-stage otitis externa. However, the prevalence of otitis externa (OE) in this breed remains unknown. We reviewed the year 2010 medical records of 55 private veterinary clinics in Finland to determine the prevalence of OE in American Cocker Spaniels compared with English Cocker and English and Welsh Springer Spaniels. An American Cocker Spaniel owner questionnaire was designed to identify potential risk factors for end-stage OE. RESULTS: From the medical records of 98,736 dogs, the prevalence of OE was highest in Welsh Springer Spaniels (149 out of 468, 31.8%, [95% confidence interval 27.6-36.0]), followed by American Cocker (89/329, 27.0%, [22.2-31.7]), English Springer (96/491, 19.6%, [16.1-23.1]) and English Cocker Spaniels (231/1467, 15.7%, [13.8-17.6]). The mean number of OE episodes in ear-diseased dogs and the number of ear surgeries were highest in American Cocker Spaniels. Owner questionnaires were received for 151 American Cocker Spaniels, 85 (56%) of which had suffered from OE. In 47% (40/85) of these dogs, OE occurred without concurrent skin lesions, 46% (33/72) displayed the first signs of OE before 1 year of age. In 24% (20/85) of the dogs, the signs of OE recurred within 1 month or continued despite treatment, 16% (14/85) required surgery (n = 11) or were euthanized (n = 5; 2 of the operated dogs and 3 others) due to severe OE. The onset of OE before the age of 1 year significantly increased the risk (OR 3.8, 95% CI 1.1-13.6) of end-stage OE. CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of OE in American Cocker Spaniels in Finland was higher than previously reported in Cocker Spaniels, but the highest prevalence of OE was found in Welsh Springer Spaniels. Compared to the other Spaniels, OE was more often recurrent and more frequently surgically managed in American Cocker Spaniels. Based on the questionnaire, early onset (<1 year) of OE increased the risk of end-stage OE. In American Cocker Spaniels, OE requires an intensive approach from the first treatment, and prevention of recurrence should be emphasised. The causes and treatment of OE in this breed warrant further study.

Prevalence of house dust mites in the homes of atopic dogs in Finland.

BACKGROUND: The house dust mites (HDM) Dermatophagoides farinae and D. pteronyssinus are important environmental allergens implicated in the pathogenesis of human and canine atopic dermatitis. Sensitization to HDM measured by allergen-specific IgE is common in Finnish atopic dogs. Studies on HDM prevalence in Finland are few but suggest that HDM are scarce. OBJECTIVE: The aim of the present study was to evaluate the prevalence of HDM in the home environments of atopic dogs in Finland. METHODS: Dust samples were obtained from the homes of 50 atopic dogs. Samples were collected by vacuuming the owners' mattresses and each dog's bed. In each case, an area of 21 × 30 cm was vacuumed for 2 min. Samples weighing 100 mg or more were considered sufficient for determination of HDM allergen concentrations (Der f 1 and Der p 1) using standardized ELISA. Samples sufficient for further analysis were also examined by direct microscopy for the presence of mites and by multiplex PCR for HDM DNA. RESULTS: Eighty one samples were sufficient for analysis by ELISA, 59 by PCR and 29 by direct microscopy. A single sample was analysed from four homes in which the dog shared the owner's bed. Der f 1 was detected in three samples (3.7%). Der p 1 was not detected in any sample. No mites were identified on microscopy. Five samples were positive for HDM on multiplex PCR (8.4%). CONCLUSION: House dust mites seem to be uncommon in the home environment of atopic dogs in Finland despite reported frequent allergen-specific IgE antibodies.

Epidemiology of methicillin resistant Staphylococcus pseudintermedius in guide dogs in Finland.

BACKGROUND: Methicillin resistant Staphylococcus pseudintermedius (MRSP) and Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) are common multi-drug resistant (MDR) bacteria in dogs. In 2012-2013 three dogs of the Guide Dog School of the Finnish Federation of the Visually Impaired were found to be MRSP positive. Guide dogs have regular contact with each other during their first year of life and prolonged contact when in training. Since dogs are placed in different parts of Finland after training, there is a risk for national spread of MDR bacteria. In this study the prevalence of MRSP and MRSA, as well as the risk factors for MRSP were determined in the Finnish guide dog population. MRSP isolates were investigated using molecular methods and compared to the earlier isolates. RESULTS: Out of 132 tested dogs 4 were MRSP positive thus giving the prevalence estimate of 3% (95% CI: 1-8%) for MRSP in the target population. MRSA was not detected (prevalence estimate 0%, 95% CI: 0-3%). Risk factors associated with MRSP were being a breeding bitch (OR = 8.4; 95% CI: 1.1-64.1, P = 0.012), the number of veterinary visits (OR = 1.23; 95% CI: 1.0-1.5, P = 0.025) and number of antimicrobial courses (OR = 1.63; 95% CI: 1.0-2.55; P = 0.035). Identified MRSP isolates belonged to five different sequence types (ST45, 71, 402, 403 and 404). All ST71 isolates carried SCCmec II-III, while the SCCmec type of the ST45 and ST402 (a single locus variant of ST45) isolates were non-typeable with the method used. CONCLUSIONS: MRSP and MRSA had low prevalence in the studied dog population despite the close contact between dogs, and the MRSP population was heterogenic. Antimicrobial therapy and veterinary visits are risk factors for MRSP even among a small case group.

Demodex gatoi-associated contagious pruritic dermatosis in cats--a report from six households in Finland.

BACKGROUND: Demodex gatoi is unique among demodectic mites. It possesses a distinct stubby appearance, and, instead of residing in the hair follicles, it dwells in the keratin layer of the epidermis, causing a pruritic and contagious skin disease in cats. Little is known of the occurrence of D. gatoi in Europe or control of D. gatoi infestation. CASE PRESENTATION: We describe D. gatoi in 10 cats, including five Cornish Rex, two Burmese, one Exotic, one Persian and one Siamese, living in six multi-cat households in different locations in Finland containing 21 cats in total. Intense pruritus was the main clinical sign. Scaling, broken hairs, alopecia and self-inflicted excoriations were also observed. Diagnosis was based on finding typical short-bodied demodectic mites in skin scrapings, skin biopsies or on tape strips. Other pruritic skin diseases, such as allergies and dermatophytoses, were ruled out. In one household, despite finding several mites on one cat, all six cats of the household remained symptomless. Amitraz used weekly at a concentration of 125-250 ppm for 2-3 months, proved successful in three households, 2% lime sulphur weekly dips applied for six weeks in one household and peroral ivermectin (1 mg every other day for 10 weeks) in one household. Previous trials in four households with imidacloprid-moxidectin, selamectin or injected ivermectin given once or twice a month appeared ineffective. CONCLUSION: D. gatoi-associated dermatitis is an emerging contagious skin disease in cats in Finland. Although pruritus is common, some cats may harbour the mites without clinical signs. In addition, due to translucency of the mites and fastidious feline grooming habits, the diagnosis may be challenging. An effective and convenient way to treat D. gatoi infestations has yet to emerge.

A randomized, controlled study to evaluate the steroid sparing effect of essential fatty acid supplementation in the treatment of canine atopic dermatitis.

A randomized, double blind, placebo-controlled multicentre clinical trial of 12 weeks' duration was undertaken in 60 dogs with atopic dermatitis to evaluate the steroid sparing effect of essential fatty acid supplementation. The dogs were randomly assigned to receive either a combination of borage seed oil and fish oil or a placebo, in addition to prednisolone tablets. All dogs received a standardized basal diet. Owners of the dogs recorded pruritus daily using a 10 cm visual analog scale and the dosage of prednisolone was established based on the pruritus score, according to written instructions. The dosage of prednisolone and the use of any concurrent treatment (shampoo and/or ear-cleanser) were recorded by the owner on a daily basis. The investigators graded the skin lesions at days 0, 42 and 84. The use of prednisolone during the test period was lower in the active group, but the difference was not statistically significant (P = 0.32). The test period was sequentially divided into 43-84, 50-84, 57-84, 64-84, 71-84 and 78-84 days. On day 64, the difference between the active group and the placebo group reached statistical significance (P = 0.04) with an increasing difference towards the end of the study. A statistically significant reduction in the pruritus scores and the total clinical scores from day 0 to day 84 was apparent in both groups (P < 0.0001). At the end of the study, both the pruritus score and the total clinical score were lower in the active group. Our findings indicate a steroid sparing effect of essential fatty acid supplementation in canine atopic dermatitis and, furthermore, that there is a time lag before the effect is attained.

Adherence of Staphylococcus intermedius to canine corneocytes in vitro.

This study investigated the in vitro adherence of Staphylococcus intermedius to canine corneocytes, collected from a healthy dog using double-sided adhesive tape. Adherence was shown to depend on duration (P < 0.001) and temperature of incubation (P < 0.001) and the concentration of bacteria (P < 0.001). Isolates of S. intermedius from lesions of pyoderma were not generally more adherent to healthy canine skin than were isolates from healthy dogs. Significant differences in adherence were demonstrated between individual isolates within both groups (P < 0.001). The study suggests that among S. intermedius there is no correlation between virulence and adherence to canine corneocytes in vitro. The finding may be important for the potential use of avirulent variants of S. intermedius as antagonistic strains against canine pyoderma. However, more studies are needed to compare the adherence of the isolates to skin cells obtained from dogs with diseases predisposed to pyoderma.

Colonization of neonatal puppies by Staphylococcus intermedius.

Cutaneous and mucosal carriage of Staphylococcus intermedius was determined in five Cavalier King Charles spaniel bitches, living in normal domestic environment, and their 18 puppies during the immediate prepartum period and after whelping, over a total of 8 weeks, using quantitative swab techniques. Within 8 h of birth S. intermedius was isolated from each puppy. The nose and mouth were the most frequently colonized mucosal sites (83 and 78%, respectively). At that time S. intermedius was isolated from the abdominal skin in 78% of the puppies. One day postpartum the mucosal populations increased significantly (P < 0.001) but fell 6 (P < 0.01) and 20 (P < 0.001) days later. Populations from abdominal skin reduced during the first and fourth weeks postpartum (P < 0.05 for both). This study indicates that in the domestic environment S. intermedius establishes itself soon after birth. The level of colonization by S. intermedius in the bitches seems to influence the colonization by pathogenic staphylococci in puppies.

Colonization of the canine skin with bacteria.

Abstract Aspects of colonization of the canine skin with bacteria are reviewed. Owing to variability in sampling techniques, anatomical sites involved and lack of temporal studies, there is still controversy as to which bacteria are residents or transients on the canine skin. The establishment of the cutaneous flora is determined by the ability of bacteria to adhere to canine corneocytes, to use available nutrients from skin secretions and to resist challenge from competing bacteria. Variations in humidity and temperature due to environment, skin folds or differences in the haircoat are also likely to have an effect. Much research has focused around Staphylococcus intermedius, the main pathogen of the canine skin but its cutaneous residency status remains questionable. Pathological conditions such as atopy and seborrhoea favour the colonization of S. intermedius and predispose to infection. Recent studies indicate that bacterial interference as a method of preventing colonization of pathogenic staphylococci may be feasible. Résumé- Les aspects de la colonisation de la peau canine par des bactéries sont étudiées. A cause de la variabilité des techniques de prélèvements, des sites anatomiques, et du caratère ponctuel des études, le doute subsiste toujours quant à savoir quelle sont les bactéries résidentes ou transitoires sur la peau de chien. L'établissement d'une flore cutanée est déterminée par la capacité de la bactérie à adhérer aux cornéocytes canines, à utiliser les nutriments disponibles à partir des sécrétions cutanées et à résister aux autres bactéries qui concourent à l'occupation des memes sites. Les variations d'humidité et de température, dues à l'environnement, aux plis de peau et aux différences de pelage jouent probablement un role. La plupart des études concernent Staphylococcus intermedius, l'agent pathogène principal de la peau du chien, mais son statut de résident cutané est toujours débattu. Des conditions pathologiques telles que l'atopie et la séborrhée favorisent la colonisation par S. intermedius et prédisposent à l'infection. Des études récentes indiquent que l'interférence bactérienne peut être envisagée comme une méthode de prévention de la colonisation cutanée par un staphylocoque pathogène. [Saijonmaa-Koulumies, L. & Lloyd, D. H. Colonization of the canine skin with bacteria (Colonisation de la peau canine par des bactéries). Veterinary Dermatology 1996; 7: 153-162.] Resumen Se revisan algunos aspectos de la colonización bacteriana en la piel canina. Existe aún controversia sobre qué bacterias son résidentes o transitorias en la piel del perro, debido a la variabilidad en las técnicas de recolección, localización y falta de estudios temporales. El establecimiento de la flora cutánea depende de su capacidad de adhesión a los corneocitos, de utilizar los nutrientes de las secreciones cutáneas y de resistir la competencia de otras bacterias. También es probable que tengan un papel los cambios de humedad y temperatura por los pliegues cutáneos o las diferencias en el pelaje. Se ha centrado mucha investigación en Staphylococcus intermedius, el principal patógeno de la piel canina, aunque se sigue cuestionando su existencia como residente cutáneo. Situaciones patológicas como la atopia o la seborrea favorecen la colonización por S. intermedius y predisponen a infección. Algunos estudios recientes indican que es factible la interferencia bacteriana como método de prevenir la colonización por estafilococos patógenos. [Saijonmaa-Koulumies, L. & Lloyd, D. H. Colonization of the canine skin with bacteria (Colonizacion de la piel cannina con bacterias). Veterinary Dermatology 1996; 7: 153-162.] Zusammenfassung- Es werden Aspekte der Besiedelung der Hundehaut mit Bakterien dargestellt. Entsprechend der Variabilität in der Probenentnahme, verwendeten anatomischen Regionen und dem Mangel an temporären Studien exisitieren immer noch unterschiedliche Ansichten, ob Bakterien auf der Haut des Hundes als resident oder transient gelten. Die Aufstellung der kutanen Flora wird durch die Fähigkeit der Bakterien bestimmt, sich an die kaninen Korneozyten anzuheften, verfügbare Nährstoffe aus den Hautsekretionen zu verwenden und sich gegenüber konkurrierenden Keimen zu behaupten. Veränderungen in Feuchtigkeit und Temperatur in Abhängigkeit von Umgebung, Hautfalten oder Unterschieden im Haarkleid scheinen ebenfalls einen Effekt zu besitzen. Viele Untersuchungen konzentrierten sich auf Staphylococcus aureus, der hauptpathogene Keim auf der Hundehaut, aber sein Status als residenter Keim bleibt fraglich. Pathologische Zustände wie Atopie und Seborrhoe begünstigen die Besiedelung mit S. intermedius und prädisponieren für eine Infektion. Kürzliche Studien zeigen, daß bakterielle Interferenzen als Methode zur Verhinderung der Ansiedlung von pathogenen Staphylokokken möglich sein könnten. [Saijonmaa-Koulumies, L., Lloyd, D.H. Colonization of the canine skin with bacteria (Besiedelung der Haut des Hundes mit Bakterien). Veterinary Dermatology 1996; 7: 153-162.].

Carriage of Bacteria Antagonistic Towards Staphylococcus intermedius on Canine Skin and Mucosal Surfaces.

Abstract- Antagonism against Staphylococcus intermedius was investigated amongst bacteria isolated from skin and mucosae of (1) 15 dogs with pyoderma and (2) 42 healthy dogs, including household pets, laboratory beagles and guide dogs. Fifteen isolates of S. intermedius, four coagulase-negative staphylococci and a Micrococcus were inhibitory in vitro against at least one of the three indicator strains using direct and deferred inhibition tests. More dogs with antagonists were found in the pyoderma group and amongst laboratory beagles (p < 0.05) compared to healthy household pets. The frequency of all antagonists and of antagonistic S. intermedius from mucosae was higher in the pyoderma group compared to healthy household pets (p < 0.01 for both) and all healthy animals (p < 0.05 and p < 0.01, respectively). Increased competition at mucosae of infected dogs caused by higher populations of bacteria may have favoured the selection of antagonistic strains. Further studies, including tests for adherence and virulence are required to determine whether these isolates could be used as interfering strains against canine pyoderma. Résumé- L'antagonisme contre Staphylococcus intermedius a étéétudié parmi des bactéries isolées à partir de la peau et des muqueuses de 15 chiens présentant des pyodermites et de 42 chiens sains, effectif comprenant des chiens de particuliers, des beagles de laboratoire et des chiens guides. Parmi les souches isolées, 15 S. intermedius, 4 staphylocoques coagulase négatifs et un micrococcus se sont révélés inhibiteurs in vitro vis à vis d'au moins une des 3 souches indicatrices, à la fois dans des test d'inhibition directs et indirects. La plupart des chiens portcurs d'antagonistes appartenait au groupe pyodermite et au groupe beagles de laboratoire (p < 0,05) plutôt qu'au groupe chiens de particuliers sains. La fréquence de tous les antagonistes et du S. intermedius antagoniste isolés à partir des muqueuses était supérieure dans le groupe pyodermite par rapport au groupe chiens de particuliers sains (p < 0,01) pour les 2) et au groupe incluant la totalité des animaux sains (p <0,05 et p < 0,01 respectivement). Une compétition accrue au niveau des muqueuses de chiens infectés causée par un plus grand nombre de bactéries peut favoriser la sélection de souches antagonistes. D'autres études incluant des tests d'adhérence et de virulence sont nécessaires pour déterminer si ces souches isolées peuvent être utilisées comme antagonistes dans les infections cutanées. [Saijonmaa-Koulumies, L. E., LLOyD, D. H. Carriage of bacteria antagonistic towards Staphylococcus intermedius on canine skin and mucosal surfaces (Portage de bactéries antagonistes de Staphylococcus intermedius sur les surfaces muqueuses et cutanées chez le chien).