Primary third eyelid lymphoma with aggressive local behavior in a dog.

Lymphoma is the most common hematopoietic neoplasm in dogs. However, cases primarily involving the third eyelid are rarely reported in the species. The subtype most frequently described in this location is marginal zone lymphoma of the mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue, which has an indolent behavior. A 10-year-old intact female Poodle was presented with a 2-month history of a nodule in the left third eyelid for evaluation. This nodule was surgically excised; however, local recurrence was detected nineteen days postoperatively, with the formation of a mass that expanded and replaced the extraocular orbital tissues and infiltrated the eye. Euthanasia was elected due to the deteriorating clinical condition, and a necropsy was performed. Macroscopically, the mass infiltrated and expanded the eyelids with narrowing of the palpebral fissure, expanded into the orbital space, and infiltrated the cornea and bulbar conjunctiva. Histologically, the mass was composed of sheets of intermediate to large neoplastic lymphocytes, with frequent epitheliotropism and tingible bodies. Neoplastic lymphocytes were immunoreactive for PAX5, CD20, and CD79a and were not immunoreactive for CD3. The neoplasm was restricted to the left eyelid and orbit. A diagnosis of primary third eyelid lymphoma (extranodal) with immunophenotype B and locally aggressive behavior was made based on the macroscopic, histological, and immunohistochemical findings.

Monensin poisoning outbreak in free-ranging and captive birds.

Monensin poisoning is uncommon and has been rarely reported in birds. This work aimed to described clinical-pathological aspects of an outbreak of monensin poisoning in captive and free-ranging birds. Thirty-seven of 600 captive birds fed a diet containing 893.19 mg/kg of monensin died within 10 days (mortality 6.17%). There was no ionophore antibiotics on the feed label supplied to captive birds, which established an error in feed production. Necropsies were performed on twelve animals: Muscovy duck (Cairina moschata) (2/12), greater rhea (Rhea americana) (2/12), black-necked swan (Cygnus melancoryphus) (2/12), garganey (Anas querquedula) (1/12), ostrich (Struthio camelus) (1/12), and common pigeon (Columbus livia) (4/12). These four common pigeons were free-ranging birds and died after eating the same contaminated feed. Birds were mainly found dead, however in animals which clinical signs were observed (Columba livia, Rhea americana, Cairina moschata, Anas querquedula, and Struthio camelus), they included incoordination, inability to stand, and intense prostration, that ranged from 24 to 72 h until death. Grossly, five birds had focally extensive pale firm areas in the myocardium and two had in the skeletal muscles, one being concomitant lesions. Histologically, muscle necrosis and degeneration were observed in striated musculature (skeletal and/or heart) in all birds analyzed. Monensin poisoning outbreaks can affect free-ranging birds that are fed on external feeders, as well as captive birds, due to an error in the feed formulation.

Histological and immunohistochemical features of carcinomas with pulmonary involvement in cattle.

Primary pulmonary neoplasms in cattle are rare. There are few studies on the pathological findings of these neoplasms in this species. This study aimed to describe the histological and immunohistochemical findings of primary and metastatic pulmonary carcinomas in cattle. We conducted a retrospective study of 19 cases of epithelial neoplasms with pulmonary involvement. Histologically, most of the neoplasms were classified as primary pulmonary neoplasms, including different adenocarcinoma subtypes (4/19, 21%) and adenosquamous carcinomas (3/19, 16%), followed by squamous cell carcinoma (6/19, 32%), metastatic uterine adenocarcinoma (4/19, 21%), metastatic hepatocellular carcinoma (1/19, 5%), and metastatic cholangiocarcinoma (1/19, 5%). By immunohistochemistry, all neoplasms were positive for pancytokeratin, and 4/19 (21%) were positive for vimentin. Primary pulmonary neoplasms had immunoreactivity for thyroid transcription factor-1 (6/7), while only 2 of these cases were positive for napsin A. All cases with squamous differentiation (9/9) had immunoreactivity for cytokeratin (CK) 5/6, while only 7 of these cases were positive for p40. CK20, CK7, and CK8/18 showed varied immunoreactivity in the primary and metastatic pulmonary carcinomas but were important markers to confirm the diagnosis of primary mucinous adenocarcinoma and metastatic cholangiocarcinoma. HepPar-1 was only positive in the metastatic hepatocellular carcinoma. The limited number of cases of metastatic uterine adenocarcinomas in this study precluded identification of a specific immunophenotype for this tumor. Immunohistochemistry proved to be an important tool to confirm the proper classification of these neoplasms.

Nutritional chondrodysplasia in cattle in Brazil.

In this work, we investigated cases of birth of calves with congenital defects in a farm in Southern Brazil. Only calves born from heifers were affected, and the disease occurred in both crossbred and purebred calves. Three necropsies were performed, tissues were collected for histopathology, and samples of liver of calves, blood serum, and food provided for cows and heifers were collected to quantify the levels of the minerals: manganese, copper, and zinc. The calves were born weak, with disproportionate dwarfism, limb deformities, and enlarged joints. Heads were shortened and domed. Long bones had a shortened diaphysis and a normal-sized epiphysis, when compared to the control. In one of the cases, there were white-yellowish lines on the metaphyseal surface of the epiphyseal plate. Histopathology of growth plates revealed premature closure, disarrangement of chondrocyte columns, and collapse of primary spongiosa. These findings supported a diagnosis of chondrodysplasia. Liver manganese levels were under the reference values in the three calves. Food analysis revealed insufficient levels of manganese in the diet of heifers, especially in sorghum silage, which was provided as the main source of food for the category in some periods. Approximately 6 months after the diet was changed, the problem ceased and only normal calves continued to be born. Our findings allowed to conclude the diagnosis of chondrodysplasia of nutritional origin and reinforce the thesis that manganese is the mineral deficient in these cases.

Eosinophilic meningoencephalitis caused by rat lungworm (Angiostrongylus cantonensis) migration in a white-eared opossum (Didelphis albiventris) with concurrent distemper virus in southern Brazil.

Angiostrongylus cantonensis is a worldwide zoonotic parasite that causes eosinophilic meningoencephalitis in many species of animals including humans. This report describes neuro-angiostrongylosis in a white-eared opossum that showed nervous clinical signs such as circling and depression. At necropsy, no relevant macroscopic lesions were observed. Histologically, eosinophilic meningoencephalitis was associated with multiple sections of nematodes and many intracytoplasmic eosinophilic inclusion bodies within gastric parietal cells. Immunohistochemistry was strongly positive for canine distemper virus in the stomach but there was no immunolabeling in the brain. This study describes a fatal case of eosinophilic meningoencephalitis by A. cantonensis with canine distemper virus concurrent infection in a white-eared opossum in southern Brazil, with histological characterization and molecular confirmation of the parasitism.

Pathological and Microbiological Findings in Fatal Cases of Salmonellosis in Captive Bothrops Snakes in Southern Brazil.

Salmonella spp. are gram-negative commensal bacteria of vertebrates, including reptiles. Infected snakes may be asymptomatic or manifest clinical disease and death, especially after stressful events. Salmonellosis was diagnosed in 10 captive snakes from the Bothrops genus. The most frequent changes were emaciation (8/10), fibrinonecrotic or granulomatous hepatitis (8/9), fibrinonecrotic or granulomatous enterocolitis (8/9), necrotic and heterophilic myocarditis (2/10), fibrinonecrotic or granulomatous pancreatitis (2/5), fibrinoheterophilic osteomyelitis (1/10), fibrinous and pyogranulomatous pericarditis (1/10) and granulomatous splenitis (1/6). Salmonella enterica was isolated from six cases. The subspecies identified were arizonae (3/6), diarizonae (1/6) and houtenae (1/6), in addition to the serotype Typhimurium (1/6). In cases without isolation, there was immunolabelling of Salmonella spp. in intestinal (3/4), hepatic (1/4) and cardiac (1/4) lesions.

Comparison of immunohistochemical profiles of ovarian germ cells in dysgerminomas of a captive maned wolf and domestic dogs.

We characterized the immunohistochemical expression profiles of dysgerminomas from a 16-y-old maned wolf and 13 domestic dogs using the following biomarkers: Sal-like protein 4 (SALL4), octamer-binding transcription factor 3/4 (OCT3/4), placental alkaline phosphatase (PLAP), c-kit, and vimentin. The maned wolf had nonspecific and long-standing clinical signs of lethargy, anorexia, and weight loss, and was euthanized because of poor prognosis. At autopsy, the left ovary was effaced by a 12 × 8 × 6 cm mass, comprised of anaplastic cells with a mitotic count of 20 mitoses in 10 high power fields. Dysgerminomas from 7 of 13 domestic dogs had nuclear expression of SALL4. Dysgerminomas from the maned wolf and 2 domestic dogs had both nuclear and cytoplasmic expression of SALL4. Cytoplasmic expression of PLAP and OCT3/4 was present in dysgerminomas from the maned wolf and 3 (PLAP) or 4 (OCT3/4) domestic dogs. All dysgerminomas expressed vimentin. Membranous c-kit expression was rare in the dysgerminoma from the maned wolf, and variable in dysgerminomas from 4 domestic dogs. A dysgerminoma from a domestic dog had cytoplasmic expression of c-kit. SALL4 is a useful marker to confirm germ cell origin of dysgerminoma in canids.

Rangelia vitalii molecular and histological quantification in tissues comparing crab-eating foxes (Cerdocyon thous) and domestic dogs.

Rangeliosis is a condition transmitted by the tick Amblyomma aureolatum and caused by the protozoan parasite Rangelia vitalii in canids. In domestic dogs, the disease causes a severe hemolytic disease, while in wild canids the piroplasm is often detected without any clinical abnormality. This study aimed to detect and quantify the number of copies of the R. vitalii Hsp70 gene (indirect parasite burden) in several organs of domestic and South American wild canids (Cerdocyon thous and Lycalopex gymnocercus) to elucidate distinct clinical presentations of rangeliosis in these species. A total of seven domestic dogs that died due to rangeliosis and 38 wild foxes were initially included, with all dogs presenting histological and molecular features of rangeliosis, while eight C. thous were positive at the molecular analysis for R. vitalii. Fragments of 22 organs collected from domestic (n = 7) and wild foxes (n = 8) were employed for histological and molecular quantification using real-time polymerase chain reaction aiming at the Hsp70 gene. Histologically, parasitophorous vacuoles were constantly detected in the dogs, while these were detected only in two C. thous. Parasitic burden was significantly higher in the digestive, cardiorespiratory, endocrine, genitourinary, and skeletal-muscle systems of domestic dogs when compared to wild foxes. In the hematopoietic system of wild canids, some organs, such as the lymph nodes and tonsils, presented significantly lower amounts of R. vitalii, while other organs (spleen, bone marrow, and blood) had results similar to those of domestic dogs. Additionally, the central nervous system of both domestic and wild canids presented a similar quantity of R. vitalii. The etiological agent is possibly maintained through an asexual reproductive process (merogony) in both domestic and wild species. Nonetheless, a limited or short-duration schizogony phase occurs in C. thous, which would designate this species as a possible reservoir host for the agent. Dogs, in contrast, would most likely act as accidental hosts, presenting a severe and more pathogenic schizogony phase, resulting in characteristic clinical and pathological rangeliosis.

Pathology of Gastrointestinal Tuberculosis in Cattle.

We describe the pathology of gastrointestinal tuberculosis in three cows. Gross lesions were found in the jejunum and ileum in all cases, and were characterized by button-shaped ulcers in the mucosa overlying Peyer's patches and adjacent mucosa. One case had similar changes in the pyloric region of the abomasum. In the affected intestinal segments, marked granulomatous inflammation effaced the lymphoid follicles of Peyer's patches and often extended transmurally. Transmural granulomatous inflammation was also found in the abomasum of one cow. Acid-fast bacilli were identified by the Ziehl-Neelsen method and the lesions were immunolabelled by an anti-Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex antibody. M. tuberculosis var. bovis was isolated in one case. Disseminated tuberculosis and marked lung lesions in all cows suggested that the gastrointestinal lesions were most likely secondary to pulmonary infection.

Penile Tuberculosis in a Bull.

We describe a case of penile tuberculosis in a bull. The prepuce was thickened, firm and pale with multifocal to coalescent caseous nodules, and the inguinal and mesenteric lymph nodes were moderately enlarged. Lesions in the prepuce, penis and lymph nodes were characterized by multifocal to coalescent areas of caseous necrosis and marked granulomatous inflammation. Acid-fast bacilli were seen within necrotic foci and Langhans giant cells. Mycobacteriumtuberculosis var. bovis was identified in inguinal lymph nodes by the polymerase chain reaction technique and by bacterial isolation. Although rare, tuberculosis should be considered in the differential diagnosis of granulomatous lesions in the genital tract of bulls.

Atypical parasitic lesions in slaughtered cattle in Southern Brazil.

In this study, we described the morphological features and unusual presentations of hydatidosis, fasciolosis, and eosinophilic myositis caused by Sarcocystis species diagnosed at the slaughterhouse lines. Twenty-seven samples of atypical parasitic lesions from distinct cattle were evaluated, of which 12 corresponded to hydatidosis, 11 to fasciolosis, and 4 to eosinophilic sarcocystosis. Hydatid cysts were observed mainly in the heart, with all cases involving the left ventricle. Fasciolosis lesions involved mainly the lungs, and were characterized by a focal nodular elevated area involving the edges of the lobes. Intralesional trematodes were observed in three cases. Sarcocystosis lesions were observed in four cases, and lesions were primarily located in the skeletal and cardiac muscles. Grossly, they presented as focal or focally extensive streaks, patches, or numerous nodules that were greenish to mildly yellowish. Histologically, all the cases had intralesional ruptured cysts of Sarcocystis that were associated with severe eosinophilic myositis and myocarditis. Parasitic lesions in atypical locations and/or with aberrant responses should be promptly identified because it may mistakenly diagnosed as other potentially zoonotic diseases, such as cysticercosis and tuberculosis.

Primary hepatic neoplasms in cattle / Neoplasmas hepáticos primários de bovinos

Primary hepatic neoplasms are mostly detected in cattle as incidental findings in slaughterhouses or diagnosed at the necropsy, wherein it may be related to the cause of death. A proper characterization of primary hepatic neoplasms is essential to provide an accurate diagnosis, especially at the slaughter lines, in order to reduce erroneous condemnations. This work aimed to characterize the gross, histological, and immunohistochemical features of primary liver neoplasms detected in slaughtered cattle in Southern Brazil. Nineteen primary hepatic neoplasms were identified. Grossly, these lesions were classified according to their distribution, as focal, multifocal, or diffuse. Histologically, the shape and arrangement of the cells, as well as possible malignant features were evaluated. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) was also performed for biliary epithelium (anti-CK7) and hepatocytes (anti-Hep Par-1) markers. Hepatocellular carcinoma (84.2%) was the most frequently detected hepatic neoplasm, followed by cholangiocarcinoma (15.8%), and these were only identified in adult cows. Hepatocellular carcinomas occurred as solitary masses or multifocal nodules, which on the cut surface were often green. Cholangiocarcinomas occurred as multifocal nodules, occasionally showing an umbilicated appearance. Histologically, hepatocellular carcinomas had mostly trabecular and solid patterns, while cholangiocarcinomas presented mostly a solid arrangement. Upon IHC, all hepatocellular carcinomas were immunolabeled for anti-Hep Par-1, ranging from mild (25%), moderate (31.2%) to marked (43.7%), while immunolabeling for anti-CK7 was detected only in one case of cholangiocarcinoma.(AU)

Os neoplasmas hepáticos primários são detectados em bovinos principalmente como achados incidentais em matadouros ou diagnosticados na necropsia, quando podem estar relacionados à causa da morte. A caracterização adequada dos tumores hepáticos primários é essencial para obter diagnósticos precisos, especialmente nas linhas de abate, com o propósito de reduzir condenações errôneas. Este trabalho teve o objetivo de determinar as características macroscópicas, histológicas e imuno-histoquímicas dos neoplasmas primários do fígado de bovinos abatidos em um matadouro-frigorífico no Sul do Brasil. Dezenove neoplasias hepáticas primárias foram identificadas. Macroscopicamente, os tumores hepáticos foram classificados de acordo com sua distribuição, como focais, multifocais ou difusos. Histologicamente, a forma e o arranjo das células e possíveis características malignas foram avaliados. Também foi realizada imuno-histoquímica (IHQ) para marcadores de epitélio biliar (anti-CK7) e hepatócitos (anti-Hep Par-1). O carcinoma hepatocelular (84,2%) foi o neoplasma hepático mais frequentemente detectado, seguido pelo colangiocarcinoma (15,8%). Esses tumores foram identificados apenas em vacas adultas. Os carcinomas hepatocelulares eram vistos como massas solitárias ou nódulos multifocais que na superfície de corte geralmente eram esverdeados. Os colangiocarcinomas foram observados como nódulos multifocais, ocasionalmente com aspecto umbilicado. Histologicamente, os padrões mais observados nos carcinomas hepatocelulares foram trabeculares e sólidos, enquanto nos colangiocarcinomas o arranjo sólido foi o mais frequente. Na IHQ, todos os carcinomas hepatocelulares foram marcados por anti-Hep Par-1, com marcação que variou de leve (25%), moderada (31,2%) a acentuada (43,7%); imunomarcação para anti-CK7 foi detectada em apenas um caso de colangiocarcinoma.(AU)

Outbreak of toxoplasmosis in a flock of domestic chickens (Gallus gallus domesticus) and guinea fowl (Numida meleagris).

Toxoplasmosis is a disease with a worldwide distribution that affects a wide variety of animal species, though with rare descriptions in chickens. We describe the clinical, epidemiological, pathological, and molecular aspects of a toxoplasmosis outbreak in domestic chickens and guinea fowl in southern Brazil. The flock was composed of 47 domestic chickens and 29 guinea fowl. Of these, 22 birds showed clinical signs of lethargy, anorexia, and neurological signs over a clinical course of 24-72 h, and 15 died. Epidemiological data were obtained through fieldwork performed at the chicken farm and necropsies of six birds. Gross lesions were absent at necropsy, and histopathological findings included inflammatory infiltrate of macrophages, lymphocytes, and plasma cells and necrosis in several tissues associated with intralesional Toxoplasma gondii. Immunohistochemistry for T. gondii was positive. Additionally, restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) analysis with 11 markers (SAG1, SAG2 (5'3'SAG2 and alt. SAG2), SAG3, BTUB, GRA6, c22-8, c29-2, L358, PK1, Apico, and CS3) and microsatellite (MS) analysis with 15 markers (TUB2, W35, TgMA, B18, B17, M33, IV.1, XI.1, N60, N82, AA, N61, N83, M48, and M102) were performed. PCR-RFLP revealed T. gondii genotype ToxoDB-PCR-RFLP #280, and MS analysis also showed a unique genotype. This is the first description of this genotype in chickens and adds to the evidence suggesting considerable genotypic diversity of T. gondii in Brazil.

Mannheimia haemolytica pleuropneumonia in goats associated with shipping stress / Pleuropneumonia por Mannheimia haemolytica em caprinos associada ao estresse de transporte

ABSTRACT: This study described the epidemiological, clinical, pathological and bacteriological aspects of Mannheimia haemolytica pleuropneumonia in goats associated with shipping stress. Forty goats transported from the Northeast to the Southern region of Brazil died during shipment, or 2-3 days after unloading. Clinical signs included dyspnea, mucopurulent nasal discharge, and coughing. All goats were necropsied, and multiple tissues were collected for histopathological analysis and involved agent identifications. All lungs showed pulmonary consolidation, predominantly affecting the cranioventral lobes, in addition to the marked fibrinous pleuritis, pleural thickening, and pleural adhesions, that affected 90% of the goats. Histologically, there was fibrino-suppurative pleuropneumonia characterized by a diffuse neutrophilic infiltrate admixed with fibrin. Non-hemolytic [85% (34/40)] and hemolytic [15% (6/40)] species were obtained in bacteriological culture. Fir Mannheimia spp. was reported in 26 isolates and subsequently confirmed as M. haemolytica (99% identity), after amplification and partial sequencing of the 16S rDNA gene. Stress may trigger the development of bacterial pleuropneumonia in goats, and non-hemolytic strains of M. haemolytica may cause this condition in goats with severe immunosuppression.

RESUMO: Descreve-se os aspectos epidemiológicos, clínicos, patológicos e bacteriológicos da pleuropneumonia por Mannheimia haemolytica em caprinos, após transporte prolongado. Quarenta caprinos transportados da região Nordeste para a região Sul do Brasil morreram durante a viagem ou 2-3 dias após o desembarque. Clinicamente, observou-se dispneia, secreção nasal mucopurulenta e tosse. Na necropsia foram coletados múltiplos fragmentos de órgãos para análises histopatológicas e identificação do agente envolvido. Todos os pulmões apresentaram consolidação pulmonar predominantemente em região cranioventral, associada à deposição acentuada de fibrina, espessamento e aderência pleurais em 90% dos casos. Histologicamente, havia pleuropneumonia fibrinossupurativa caracterizada por infiltrado neutrofílico difuso associado à fibrina. Colônias não hemolíticas [85% (34/40)] e hemolíticas [15% (6/40)] foram obtidas pelo isolamento bacteriológico. Mannheimia spp. foi isolada em 26 amostras, os quais posteriormente foram confirmados como Mannheimia haemolytica (99% de identidade), pela amplificação e sequenciamento parcial do gene 16S rDNA. O estresse pode favorecer o desenvolvimento de pleuropneumonia bacteriana em caprinos, e cepas não hemolíticas de M. haemolytica podem causar doença em animais com imunodepressão acentuada.

Rhinosporidiosis in horses / Rinosporidiose em equinos

Rhinosporidiosis is a disease caused by Rhinosporidium seeberi, an aquatic protist of the class Mesomycetozoa. It primarily affects the nasal mucosa and transmission is associated with contaminated water contact. This report describes seven cases of rhinosporidiosis in horses in Rio Grande do Sul covering the period of 13 years. The disease predominantly affected Crioulo and thoroughbred horses. No apparent gender predisposition occurs, and age ranged from two to 25 years, with a median of 10 years. The gross aspects were characterized by unilateral (85.7%, 6/7) or bilateral (14.3%, 1/7) polyps. These were soft to friable, whitish to pink, cauliflower-like, with an irregular, sometimes ulcerated surface, measuring 2.5 to 6.0cm in diameter. There was a severe inflammatory infiltrate of the submucosa was observed, associated with moderate proliferation of the epithelium, and numerous rounded structures were identified compatible with sporangia of R. seeberi. Rhinosporidiosis should be included in the differential diagnosis of other conditions affecting the respiratory tract of horses, and it is important to perform histopathology for diagnosis.(AU)

A rinosporidiose é uma doença causada por Rhinosporidium seeberi, protista aquático da classe Mesomycetozoa. Acomete principalmente a mucosa nasal e a transmissão está associada ao contato com água contaminada. Este trabalho descreve sete casos de rinosporidiose em equinos no Rio Grande do Sul em um período de 13 anos. A doença afetou predominantemente cavalos de raça, como Crioulo e Puro Sangue Inglês, sem predisposição sexual evidente e a idade variou de dois a 25 anos, com a mediana de 10 anos. Macroscopicamente foram caracterizadas por pólipos unilaterais (85,7%; 6/7) ou bilaterais (14,3%; 1/7). Os pólipos eram macios a friáveis, esbranquiçados a róseos, com aspecto de couve flor e com superfície irregular, por vezes ulcerada, medindo 2,5 a 6,0cm de diâmetro. Havia infiltrado inflamatório piogranulomatoso acentuado na submucosa associado à moderada proliferação do epitélio e numerosas estruturas arredondadas compatíveis com esporângios de R. seeberi. A rinosporidiose deve ser incluída no diagnóstico diferencial de outras patologias que acometem o trato respiratório de equinos, sendo importante a realização da histopatologia para diagnóstico.(AU)

Omphalitis, urachocystitis and septicemia by Streptococcus dysgalactiae in a southern right whale calf Eubalaena australis, Brazil.

Southern right whales Eubalaena australis (SRW) use the southern coast of Brazil as a wintering and calving ground. Other than anthropogenic threats, there is limited knowledge on health and disease aspects for this species. We report the gross and microscopic findings and microbiological identification of streptococcal septicemia in a SRW calf. Main gross findings included fibrinosuppurative omphalitis and urachocystitis, suppurative cystitis, valvular endocarditis and myocarditis, embolic pneumonia, suppurative myositis and osteoarthritis, and lymphadenomegaly. Histological examination confirmed the above inflammatory processes and indicated disseminated Gram-positive coccoid septicemia. PCR analysis, based on the 16S rRNA gene from bacteria isolated on blood agar, identified Streptococcus dysgalactiae. Pathologic and microbiologic analysis indicated that ß-hemolytic S. dysgalactiae septicemia, presumably initiated as ascending omphalic infection, was responsible for stranding and death in this individual. These results further confirm pathogenicity of streptococci in cetaceans and add to the limited health and disease related pathology knowledge for this species.

Caracterização das lesões parasitárias de ovinos observadas na linha de abate / Characterization of parasitic lesions of sheep observed at slaughter line

Considerando a possibilidade de erros na identificação das lesões e a necessidade de melhorar o diagnóstico, o objetivo desse trabalho foi caracterizar macroscopicamente e microscopicamente as principais lesões parasitárias observadas em ovinos na linha de abate. Os materiais foram colhidos durante duas visitas a um matadouro frigorífico de ovinos no estado do Rio Grande do Sul. Totalizaram-se 161 amostras com lesões parasitárias de ovinos em diferentes órgãos. As alterações observadas incluíam hidatidose, cisticercose por Cysticercus ovis, cisticercose por Cysticercus tenuicollis, sarcocistose (morfologia compatível com Sarcocystis gigantea), fasciolose (Fasciola hepatica) e esofagostomose. Das 161 amostras, 25,5% correspondiam a hidatidose, e os cistos hidáticos foram observados, predominantemente, nos pulmões (46,3%) e fígado (41,5%). Ao corte, os cistos demonstraram três padrões morfológicos: cistos uniloculares viáveis (34%); cistos multivesiculares viáveis (31,7%); e cistos hidáticos (uniloculares e multivesiculares) degenerados (34%). As lesões de cisticercose por C. ovis (22,4%) foram visualizadas no coração (63,9%), língua (13,9%), músculo masseter (11,1%) e diafragma (11,1%). Morfologicamente os cisticercos foram classificados em vivos (viáveis), degenerados e mineralizados. Lesões provocadas por S. gigantea (19,2%) estavam presentes na túnica muscular do esôfago, na língua e na laringe. Macroscopicamente, observaram-se múltiplas estruturas nodulares brancas que continham uma cápsula fibrosa e lúmen preenchido por material gelatinoso translúcido. Cisticercose por C. tenuicollis representaram 18,6% das lesões. Os cistos foram observados aderidos no omento, no mesentério, na cápsula do fígado e na vesícula biliar. Morfologicamente os cistos foram classificados como vivos (viáveis) e degenerados. Os cistos vivos apresentavam a parede translúcida ou levemente opaca, contendo um escólex no seu interior. Os cistos degenerados eram brancacentos, firmes, com espessa cápsula fibrosa e centro mineralizado. Lesões provocadas por F. hepatica corresponderam a 7,4% dos casos. As lesões hepáticas caracterizavam-se macroscopicamente por espessamento variável dos ductos biliares por fibrose e ocasionalmente havia exemplares de F. hepatica no lúmen dos ductos. Em oito casos, observaram-se áreas de acentuada necrose do parênquima hepático. Lesões provocadas por Oesophagostomum spp. perfizeram 6,8% dos casos. As alterações foram observadas no intestino delgado e intestino grosso de todos os ovinos e em dois casos, havia também envolvimento dos linfonodos mesentéricos. Nos intestinos, as lesões caracterizavam-se por nódulos bem delimitados, salientes na serosa, firmes e que invadiam também a camada muscular. Nos linfonodos havia obliteração do parênquima nodal por acentuada mineralização. É extremamente importante a identificação morfológica das diferentes lesões parasitárias encontradas nas linhas de abate em frigoríficos de ovinos, para posterior destino correto das mesmas. As alterações devem ser avaliadas com o intuito principal de reconhecer a sua capacidade infecciosa. Além disso, é fundamental o conhecimento dos locais anatômicos mais comuns em que cada alteração geralmente costuma ocorrer.(AU)

Considering the possibilities of mistaken diagnoses in identifying lesions at meat inspection this study was designed to provide data for a better-educated diagnosis by the meat inspectors through the gross and microscopic characterization of parasitic lesions observed in slaughtered sheep at the inspection line. One hundred and sixty-one samples of parasitic lesions were sampled from various organs of slaughtered sheep during two visits to a sheep abattoir located in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. Lesions observed included hydatid cysts, cysticercosis due to Cysticercus ovis and to Cysticercus tenuicollis, sarcocystosis (morphology compatible with Sarcocystis gigantea), fasciolosis (Fasciola hepatica) and oesophagostomosis. Twenty-five point five percent of the 161 samples corresponded to hydatidosis and the hydatid cysts were observed predominantly in the lungs (46.3%) and liver (41.5%). On cut surface, the cysts had three different morphological patterns: viable unilocular cysts (34%); viable multivesicular cysts (31.7%); and degenerate (unilocular and multivesicular) hydatid cysts (34%). Cysticercosis by C. ovis (22.4%) was observed in the myocardium (63.9%), tongue (13.9%), masseter (11.1%), and diaphragm (11.1%). Morphologically the cysticerci were classified as viable, degenerated or mineralized. Lesions caused by S. Gigantea (19.2%) were observed in the muscle layer of the esophagus, tongue, and larynx. Grossly there were multiple white nodular structures that contained a fibrous capsule with the lumen filled by translucent and gelatinous material. Cysticercosis by C. tenuicollis accounted for 18.6% of observed parasitic lesions; the cysts adhered to the omentum, mesentery, liver capsule, and serosal surface of gall bladder; grossly the cysts were classified as viable and degenerated. Viable cysts had translucent or slightly opaque walls and contained a single scolex. Degenerated cysts were white, firm and with a thick fibrous capsule and mineralized center. Lesions caused by F. hepatica accounted for 7.4% of the cases and were grossly characterized by variable fibrous thickening of bile ducts which occasionally contained the adult flukes in their lumina. In eight cases there were marked areas of necrosis in the hepatic parenchyma. Lesions caused Oesophagostomumspp. accounted for 6.8% of the observed parasitic cases and the changes were observed in all cases in the walls of the small and large intestine; in two cases mesenteric lymph nodes were also involved. In the intestines, lesions were characterized by firm well-circumscribed nodules prominent in the serosal surface and also invading the muscle layer. In the lymph nodes marked mineralization obliterated the nodal parenchyma. The correct identification of the various parasitic lesions found in the viscera of sheep in the abattoir inspection line it is important to dictate the proper destination of affected organs and carcasses. The lesions should be evaluated aiming to determine their infective capacity and to acquire knowledge about their more frequent anatomical sites.(AU)

Aspectos macroscópicos e histológicos da cisticercose bovina / Macroscopic and histological findings of bovine cysticercosis

Cisticercose bovina é uma importante doença parasitária de caráter zoonótico, com elevada ocorrência em algumas regiões do Brasil. Considerando a possibilidade de erro na identificação das lesões, bem como a dificuldade de classificação dos cistos e a necessidade de melhorar o diagnóstico, o objetivo desse trabalho foi caracterizar e correlacionar as lesões macroscópicas e microscópicas da cisticercose bovina, além de utilizar a técnica da PCR para auxiliar na identificação do agente. Amostras de lesões císticas e nodulares de bovinos, compatíveis macroscopicamente com cisticercose, foram coletadas em abatedouros frigoríficos do Estado do Rio Grande do Sul. Os cistos foram divididos em três grupos: Grupo 1, cisticercos vivos (viáveis); Grupo 2 (subdividido em 2a e 2b), cisticercos degenerados com potencial escólex viável; e Grupo 3 cisticercos mortos (mineralizados). Após a obtenção das lâminas histológicas dos cisticercos de cada grupo, foi realizada a correlação macroscópica e microscópica. Para a realização da técnica da PCR foram utilizadas lesões císticas de 26 bovinos. Foram analisados cisticercos de 127 bovinos, totalizando 232 cistos. Dos 127, 46 bovinos (36,2%) apresentaram mais de um cisticerco e 81 (63,8%) um cisticerco cada. Em relação a localização anatômica dos cistos, o coração demonstrou o maior envolvimento (55,9%), seguido do músculo masseter (22,8%). Quando houve o envolvimento de dois órgãos em um mesmo bovino, coração e músculo masseter juntos, totalizaram 11 casos (8,6%). De maneira geral a média da frequência de cisticercose foi de 10% a 15% de bovinos acometidos por lote. Entretanto, a média isolada de alguns lotes demonstrou condenações acima de 50%, 80% e 90%. Morfologicamente, os 232 cisticercos foram classificados dentro de três grupos. No Grupo 1, 23 cistos (9,9%) foram considerados como vivos (viáveis), e eram caracterizados por lesões císticas com parede translúcida ou levemente opaca, contendo líquido claro e um ponto esbranquiçado no interior (escólex). Na histologia, os cistos eram compostos por uma membrana de onde invaginava um escólex de Taenia saginata. No segundo grupo (Grupo 2), foram incluídos 156 (67,2%) cisticercos degenerados com potencial escólex viável e macroscopicamente os cistos demonstraram dois padrões morfológicos distintos. No primeiro deles (Grupo 2a), visualizado em 111 casos (71,1%), observaram-se lesões nodulares com aspecto caseoso. Microscopicamente, os cistos caracterizavam-se por formações nodulares compostas por área central contendo escólex e membrana, ambos degenerados, e necrose caseosa. No segundo padrão (Grupo 2b), observado em 45 cisticercos (28,9%), as lesões também eram caseosas, entretanto ao corte os cistos demonstravam na área central um orifício em meio ao material caseoso. Os aspectos microscópicos dos 45 cistos incluídos no segundo padrão macroscópico assemelhavam-se aos cisticercos do primeiro padrão. Entretanto, oito cistos (17,8%) demonstraram somente a membrana parasitária viável e em um cisto notou-se a membrana com o escólex viável. No restante dos 36 cistos (80%), observou-se área central contendo escólex e membrana, ambos degenerados, e necrose caseosa. No terceiro grupo de classificação morfológica dos cisticercos (Grupo 3), foram inseridos os cistos mineralizados (mortos), totalizando 53 cistos (22,9%). O aspecto macroscópico desses cisticercos caracterizava-se por lesões nodulares, amarelas, firmes ao corte, que se fragmentavam. Histologicamente observaram-se formações nodulares com área central de acentuada mineralização, rodeadas por infiltrado inflamatório granulomatoso. Dos 127 bovinos, foi realizado PCR a partir do DNA extraído dos cisticercos de 26 bovinos, no qual 24 foram positivos para cisticercose. Em relação aos dois cisticercos negativos, um deles fazia parte do Grupo 2a e o outro do Grupo 3. A correlação entre os aspectos macroscópicos e microscópicos do segundo padrão morfológico observado dentro do Grupo 2, demonstrou que esse subgrupo representa o maior problema na interpretação, pois alguns cistos apresentaram características de viabilidade. Macroscopicamente esses cisticercos podem ser identificados quando cortados, porque possuem um orifício na área central que pode auxiliar no diagnóstico.(AU)

Bovine cysticercosis is an important zoonotic parasitic disease with high prevalence in several regions of Brazil. Considering the need of improvement of the accuracy of diagnosis of these lesions, as well as the difficulty of classification of the cysts, this study aimed to correlate gross and histopathological changes of bovine cysticercosis and to use polymerase chain reaction (PCR) as an aid in their identification. Cystic and nodular lesions from cattle, grossly compatible with cysticercosis, were sampled in slaughterhouses from Rio Grande do Sul State. Lesions were allotted in one of the following groups. Group 1: viable cysticercus; Group 2 (subdivided 2a e 2b): degenerating cysticercus with a potentially viable scolex; and Group 3: dead cysticercus (mineralized). The gross and microscopic aspects of every cysticerci of each group were compared. Two hundred and thirty two cysts and nodules compatible with cysticercus were sampled from 127 bovine. Twenty six of those lesions were tested with PCR. Out of 127 cattle, 46 (36.2%) had more than one cyst and the remaining 81 (63.8%) had on cyst each. Myocardium was the most frequently involved anatomical site (55.9%), followed by masseter muscle (22.8%). When there was more than one organ involved in the same bovine, myocardium a master muscle sum up 11 cases (8.6%). In general, the average of cysticercosis frequency was 10-15%. However the average in some cattle lots was in excess of 50%, 80% and 90%. Morphologically, 232 cysticerci were classified in three groups. In Group 1, 23 cysticerci (9.9%) were considered viable and were characterized by cysts of translucent or slightly opaque wall, containing clear and a white point (scolex) within the cyst. Histologically, the cysts consisted of a membrane from which a scolex of Taenia saginata invaginated. One hundred and fifty six cysts (67.2%) were allotted in Group 2; grossly these cysts revealed two different morphological patterns. In 111 (71.1%) cases of Group 2 (Group 2a) nodular caseous lesions were observed. Histologically, the cysts were characterized by nodules consisting by a central area containing the scolex and membrane, both degenerated, and caseous necrosis. In the remaining 45 (28.9%) cases of Group 2 (Group 2b), lesions were also caseous; however, at cut surface the cysts had a central hole amidst the caseous material. The microscopic aspect of the 45 cysts included in the second was similar to that of the first pattern. However in eight (17.8%) of the 45 cysts only a viable parasitic membrane was observed and in one cyst the membrane and viable scolex were observed. In the remaining 36 cases (80%), the cysts consisted of a central area containing both degenerated membrane and scolex, and caseous necrosis. In Group 3, 53 dead cysts (mineralized) (22.9%) were found among the total of 232 cysts. The gross aspect of these cysticerci was characterized by yellow form nodules which crumbled when cut. Histologically nodules were observed with marked central area of mineralization surrounded by granulomatous inflammatory response. Twenty four of the twenty cysts examined by PCR were positive for Cysticercus bovis and two of them were negative. One of the negatives was part of Group 2 (degenerated cysts) and the other one of the Group 3 (dead mineralized cysts). The correlation between gross and microscopic aspects of the second morphologic aspect of the Group 2 demonstrated that this subset represents a major complicating factor in interpretation, since a large number of these cysts reveal characteristics of viability. Grossly, these cysticerci might be identified when cut, since a hole in the central area will be observed aiding in recognizing his lesions.(AU)

Neoplasmas em suínos: 37 casos / Neoplasia in swine: 37 cases

Neoplasmas em suínos são raros. Esse trabalho descreve os neoplasmas encontrados em suínos na rotina diagnóstica de um laboratório de patologia veterinária localizado na Região Central do Rio Grande do Sul. Durante um período de 49 anos, 2.266 casos de várias afecções em suínos foram encontrados, dos quais 37 (1,6%) eram neoplasmas. Em ordem decrescente de frequência, os seguintes neoplasmas foram encontrados: Linfoma (11/37), nefroblastoma (11/37), melanoma (8/37) e papiloma (2/37). Adicionalmente, um caso de cada um dos seguintes tumores foi observado: Adenoma hepatocelular, carcinoma hepatocelular, colangiocarcinoma, histiocitoma fibroso maligno e sarcoma granulocítico. O aspecto macroscópico e histológico desses tumores é descrito e a sua epidemiologia é comparada com os dados disponíveis na literatura para neoplasia suína.

Neoplasms in swine are rare. This paper describes neoplasms found in swine in the diagnostic routine of a veterinary pathology laboratory in the Central Region of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil during a 49-year period, during which 2,266 cases of the various affections in swine were diagnosed. Of those 37 cases (1.6%) were neoplasms. In decreasing order of prevalence, the following neoplasms were found: lymphoma (11 out of 37 cases), nephroblastoma (11/37), melanoma (8/37), and papilloma (2/37). Adenoma hepatocelular, carcinoma hepatocelular, cholangiocarcinoma, malignant fibrous histiocytoma, granulocytic sarcoma were each found in one case out of the 37 cases. The gross and histological aspects of these tumors are described and their epidemiology is compared with the data available in the literature for neoplasia in swine.

Lesões granulomatosas encontradas em bovinos abatidos para consumo / Granulomatous lesions found in cattle slaughtered for meat production

Com o objetivo auxiliar profissionais médico-veterinários no reconhecimento das lesões de bovinos encontradas na linha de inspeção de carnes em matadouros frigoríficos, três condições granulomatosas de bovinos foram pesquisadas e suas semelhanças e diferenças avaliadas. Essas três condições granulomatosas foram actinobacilose (causada por Actinobacillus lignieresii), actinomicose (causada por Actinomyces bovis) e mastite estafilocócica (causada por Staphylococcus aureus). Em 505 lesões encontradas em bovinos abatidos para consumo humano, 40 eram uma dessas três lesões granulomatosas: 24 eram actinobacilose, 10 eram actinomicose e seis eram mastite estafilocócica. De um modo geral, os aspectos macro e microscópicos dessas três lesões eram bastante semelhantes, mas suas localizações ajudavam a presumir sua etiologia. A. lignieresii afetou tecidos moles, principalmente língua e linfonodos da cabeça; A. bovis afetou o tecido ósseo, principalmente o da mandíbula; e S. aureus teve a glândula mamária como o tecido alvo. Histologicamente, os granulomas resultantes da infecção por qualquer um desses três agentes continham uma estrutura amorfa, eosinofílica, com clavas irradiadas, localizada centralmente; essa estrutura era rodeada por neutrófilos íntegros e degenerados, que, por sua vez, eram cercados por um manto de macrófagos epitelioides e ocasionais células gigantes multinucleadas. Esses mantos de macrófagos eram irregularmente infiltrados por linfócitos e plasmócitos que tendiam a se acumular na periferia da lesão, que era cercada por uma cápsula de tecido conjuntivo...

In order to help professionals of veterinary medicine in recognizing bovine lesions found during meat inspection at slaughterhouses, three granulomatous conditions of cattle were researched and their morphological similarities and differences were assessed. These three granulomatous conditions were actinobacillosis (caused by Actinobacillus lignieresii), actinomycosis (caused by Actinomyces bovis) and staphylococcal mastitis (caused by Staphylococcus aureus). Out of 505 lesions found in cattle slaughtered for human consumption, 40 were one of the three granulomatous conditions: 24 were actinobacillosis, 10 were actinomycosis and six were staphylococcal mastitis. Overall the gross and histological features of these three diseases are quite similar but their location helps give away the etiology. A. lignieresii affected soft tissues, mainly those of tongue and lymph nodes of the head region; A. bovis affected bone tissue mainly that of the mandible; and S. aureus main targeted tissue was the mammary gland. Histologically the granuloma resulting from the infection with either one of these three causal agents contained centrally located amorphous, eosinophilic, club like structures surrounded by viable and dead neutrophils. These were surrounded by a mantle of epithelioid macrophages and occasional multinucleated giant cells. These macrophage mantles were irregularly infiltrate by lymphocytes and plasma cells which tended to accumulate to the periphery of the lesion which, in turn, was fenced by a fibrous connective capsule. Given the employment of adequate techniques the causative the agent could be seen within or surrounding the clublike structures in each the three types of granulomatous lesions. In the case of staphylococcal mastitis, intralesional cocci were observed both in HE and Gram stained preparations, in the latter as gram-positive cocci...