Malignant tumor of peripheral nerve sheath in the thoracolumbar region in a cat

Background: In veterinary medicine, peripheral nerve tumors (PNST) are classified from the cellular pattern and as benign and malignant (MPNST). The majorities of cases are benign and usually involve the skin and subcutaneous tissue of the head, neck, and limbs. Animals with MPTNS usually have spinal cord and spinal canal involvement and are also described in the small and large intestine, oral cavity, perirenal region, and urinary bladder. Treatment is performed according to the location of the neoplasm and metastasis is rarely described. The present article aims to report a case of a malignant tumor in the peripheral nerve sheath of a cat. Case: A 8-year-old domestic cat was presented with a history of progressive paresis in the pelvic limbs. On neurological evaluation, proprioceptive ataxia and proprioception deficit in the pelvic limbs were observed, suggestive of thoracolumbar injury. Blood work and serum biochemistry showed results within the reference for the species and the bi-directional immunochromatography test for FIV and FeLV were negative. The radiographs of the thoracolumbar segment did not show significant changes. Myelography with iodinated contrast and collection of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) were performed. On myelography examination, iodinated contrast loss was found between the 6th and 7th thoracic vertebrae, while the CSF analysis was normal. The patient underwent laminectomy and durotomy for excision of a mass found dorsally to the spinal cord, with intradural location. The tumor was sent for histopathological examination. Microscopic analysis showed neoplastic proliferation of spindle-shaped cells with predominance of the Antoni A pattern. Immunohistochemical analysis demonstrated intense cytoplasmic staining of the neoplastic cells for vimentin and S100 protein. Based on these findings, the diagnosis of malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor was made. Radiotherapy was suggested as adjuvant treatment after surgical procedure. However, the owner refuse to follow this recommendation due to cost restriction. The patient had a satisfactory clinical recovery, he has no longer presented proprioceptive ataxia or proprioception deficits in three months after the surgical procedure. Discussion: In the case described, the feline patient presented a history, clinical signs, and findings in the myelography exam related to MPNST in the region of the vertebral canal. This neoplasm usually involves the spinal canal or spinal cord, but has been described in other locations, such in the small and large intestine, oral cavity, perirenal region, and urinary bladder. Based on the findings of the physical examination and complementary exams, a surgical procedure was recommended. Then, laminectomy and dutoromy were performed to remove the mass. The treatment described in the literature in cases of MPTNS is surgery, which can be curative, but in some cases, the use of radiotherapy may be necessary. The histological patterns observed in this neoplasm are the Antoni A and B, in the case described the Antoni A pattern was observed. The definitive diagnosis was made by immunohistochemistry with vimentin and S100 protein. MPNST are few described in the thoracolumbar region in cats. The surgical treatment was curative, where improvement of the clinical signs could be observed three months after surgery. In addition, monitoring of patients is recommended to ascertain relapses and metastases.

Gota úrica visceral em pato-do-mato (Cairina moschata) / Visceral uric gout in muscovy duck (Cairina moschata)

Background: Gout, a metabolic disease affecting multiple species, is frequent in birds which are uricotelic animals. It is primarily caused by hyperuricemia originating from birds' renal disorders with subsequent deposition of urate crystals into tissue. The location of the crystals determines the type of disease. Joint disease occurs with deposition inside and around joints, joint capsules, and tandine hems, while visceral disease occurs when the serous surface of visceral organs (mainly pericardium, liver, kidneys, air sacs, peritoneum, and spleen) are affected. This report describes a case of visceral uric gout in a Muscovy duck, which is rare. Case: An adult, male, Muscovy duck (Cairina moschata), kept under human care in a zoo, was referred to a veterinary clinic. The animal presented suddenly with prostration, ataxia, and anorexia, and died the following day. The body was sent to the Pathology Sector of Ritter dos Reis University Center (UniRitter) for a necropsy. During the necropsy, it was observed that white membranes, presenting a "chalk dust" appearance, were deposited under the serous layer of organs including the liver, kidneys, and pericardium. Following the necropsy and macroscopic evaluations, fragments of multiple organs were fixed in 10% formalin and processed routinely with hematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining for histopathological evaluation in an analysis laboratory in Porto Alegre city. A deposition of amorphous eosinophilic material was identified in the intestine, liver (serous), kidneys, lungs, and heart (epicardium) with findings of serositis, nephritis, and fibrinous epicarditis. The liver parenchyma and lungs had areas of congestion. There was both moderate and intense hepatocellular degeneration as well as degeneration in the renal tubular cells. These macro and microscopic changes were compatible with urate crystal deposition which represents visceral uric gout. Discussion: As opposed to free-living birds, birds in captivity have easy access to food and are sedentary. These factors, together with inadequate food management, make nutritional disorders the main predisposing cause of uric gout in these animals. Since it was not possible to determine the causative factors of this individual animal's disease due to the absence of examinations while alive, a nutritional origin of this animal's demise was considered. According to prior reports, an important cause of avian disease can be attributed directly or indirectly to kidney dysfunction. In addition to a deposition of amorphous material in the renal cortex, this Muscovy duck had areas of tubular cell degeneration and proliferation of fibrous connective tissue. However, it was not possible to establish a cause and effect relationship between the renal damage and the uric gout. Despite being common in birds under human care, the disease still is challenging for veterinarians, since the diagnosis is often late and treatment is often ineffective. The absence of documentation of this disease in the Muscovy duck contributes to the difficulty in establishing predisposing factors and a distinct disease etiology. This highlights the importance of the present report and the need for new studies. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of visceral uric gout in a Muscovy duck (Cairina moschata). This highlights the importance of necroscopic examinations and the impact they can have in the clinical arena, especially in wild animals.

Pulmonary choristoma in a new-born calf with multiple cranial and nervous malformations / Coristoma pulmonar em um bezerro recém-nascido com múltiplas malformações cranianas e neurológicas

Multiple congenital malformations can occur concomitantly in several species since the anomaly in one organ may lead directly to the malformation of another. Additionally, the etiology is not always clarified. Choristoma refers to an ectopic tissue that is histologically normal in an abnormal location. A case of pulmonary and nodal choristoma associated with cranioschisis, hydrocephalus, and syringomyelia in a new-born calf is reported here. Clinically, the calf had a mass in the frontal region of the head associated with local bone deformation. At necropsy, there was cranioschisis in the junction of the frontal bones and a 14 × 10 × 7 cm mass, grossly consistent with well-differentiated pulmonary tissue covered by skin, covering the opening between the frontal bones, and extending into the cranial cavity, leading to local cerebral compression. With the pulmonary choristoma, there was a well-differentiated lymphoid tissue. Additionally, in the central nervous system, there was severe hydrocephalus involving lateral ventricles and multiple areas of syringomyelia in the spinal cord.

Múltiplas malformações congênitas podem ocorrer concomitantemente em diversas espécies, uma vez que a anomalia em um órgão pode diretamente acarretar a malformação de outro. Ainda, a etiologia envolvida nem sempre é identificada. Coristomas são caracterizados por tecido ectópico histologicamente normal em uma localização anômala. Um caso de coristoma pulmonar e nodal associado a craniosquise, hidrocefalia e siringomielia em um bezerro recém-nascido é descrito neste trabalho. Clinicamente, o bezerro apresentava uma massa na região frontal da cabeça associada a deformação óssea local. No exame de necropsia, havia craniosquise na junção dos ossos frontais e tecido pulmonar bem diferenciado recoberto por pele, medindo 14 x 10 x 7 cm, recobrindo a abertura entre os ossos frontais e adentrando a cavidade craniana, acarretando o achatamento do córtex cerebral adjacente. Juntamente com o tecido pulmonar, havia um nódulo composto por tecido linfoide bem diferenciado. Adicionalmente, no sistema nervoso central, havia hidrocefalia severa envolvendo os ventrículos laterais e múltiplas áreas de siringomielia na medula espinhal.

Anasarca associated with restrictive cardiomyopathy in cats

Background: Cardiomyopathies are a primary heart disorder and are one of the most causes of heart failure and sudden death in cats. Restrictive cardiomyopathy is a diastolic dysfunction resulting from endomyocardial fibrosis, with filling restriction and ventricular distention. In these cases, a poor outcome is expected. Anasarca in animals is often associated with dystocia secondary to congenital changes. In adults, this is a rare condition, since subcutaneous edema in animals with congestive heart failure is an uncommon finding. Therefore, this report describes clinical and pathological findings in an unusual presentation of anasarca in two adult cats with restrictive cardiomyopathy. Cases: A 12-year-old female mixed breed cat (case 1) and a 6-year-old male mixed-breed cat (case 2) were present on an emergent basis at the veterinary hospital with a history of respiratory distress. Case 1 showed on physical examination intense restrictive mixed dyspnea and lethargy, with muffled heart sounds and respiratory noises in cardiorespiratory auscultation. The cat exhibited abdominal distension resulting from ascites. Generalized subcutaneous edema was evident mainly in the abdominal and submandibular areas and the thoracic and pelvic limbs. In these regions, a positive Godet signal was observed. Thoracic radiography revealed pleural effusion, and the cat underwent fluid drainage on both sides of the thoracic cavity. Drainage material was sent to the laboratory for clinical analysis, which indicated that it was a modified transudate. The clinical signs worsened, and the cat was euthanized. In case 2, physical examination showed severe restrictive mixed dyspnea, lethargy, and low body temperature (< 32°C). Abdominal distension resulting from ascites and generalized edema in the subcutaneous tissue with a positive Godet sign was observed. On cardiorespiratory auscultation, cardiac sounds and breathing noises were muffled. Thoracic radiography revealed pleural effusion. The cat was immediately placed in an incubator for clinical stabilization with oxygen therapy and warm-up. After 2 h of hospitalization, thoracentesis and drainage of cavity fluids were performed, which were classified as modified transudate. The patient remained in critical condition during hospitalization, evolving to death. The two cats were referred for a complete post mortem examination. Grossly, both cats showed distension of the abdomen and marked edema of subcutaneous tissue, mainly in the abdominal, ventral cervical, and thoracic and pelvic members. In the abdominal and thoracic cavities, a moderate amount of serous-free liquid, slightly reddish was observed. The heart of both cats was enlarged, with a globose appearance and a slightly whitish epicardium. The left ventricular endocardium was mild and diffusely thick and whitish, in addition to moderate dilation of the left atrium. Histological analyses of the heart showed in both cats moderate and diffuse proliferation of fibrous connective tissue in the endocardial region. Discussion: Restrictive cardiomyopathy has major importance in feline medicine due to its severity and poor outcome. Pleural effusion, pulmonary edema, and ascites are common findings in cats with congestive heart failure; however, generalized subcutaneous edema is uncommon. To the author's knowledge, there are no published cases in the literature of anasarca in adult cats with restrictive cardiomyopathy. In human cardiology, this presentation is commonly related to congestive heart failure, and it is reported under several conditions, such as restrictive cardiomyopathy and constrictive pericarditis. The present study suggests that anasarca should be included in the list of associated clinical signs suggestive of severe congestive heart failure, mainly related to restrictive cardiomyopathy.

Congestive heart failure in a young cat with excessive moderator bands (false tendons) in the left ventricle / Insuficiência cardíaca congestiva em um gato jovem com bandas moderadoras excessivas (falsos tendões) em ventrículo esquerdo

Left ventricular false tendons are fibrous or fibromuscular bands that transverse the ventricular cavity and have no attachment to the mitral valve in many species. In cats it is considered a congenital defect that is rarely related to clinical disease and death in adult cats. A 45 days-old mixed breed cat had a history of inappetence since birth. At the physical exam the patient was lethargic and presented restrictive dyspnoea. At necropsy, there were marked ascites, hydrothorax, hepatomegaly with enhanced lobular pattern (nutmeg liver), and the lungs were markedly diminished (compressive pulmonary atelectasis). The heart was enlarged due to marked dilation of the cardiac chambers. Moreover, multiple slightly whitish and irregular cord-like structures were connecting the posterior papillary muscle to the interventricular septum (excessive moderator bands /left ventricular false tendons) at the left ventricle. Microscopically, these structures were characterized by a marked proliferation of fibrous connective tissue intermixed with Purkinje cells and well-differentiated cardiomyocytes lined by a single layer of endocardium. This study described a case of excessive moderator bands (left ventricular false tendons) in a young cat associated with congestive heart failure and death.

Falsos tendões são bandas fibrosas ou fibromusculares que atravessam a cavidade do ventrículo esquerdo, sem ligação com a valva mitral, em várias espécies. Nos gatos, a alteração é considerada um defeito congênito que raramente está relacionada com alterações clínicas e morte em gatos adultos. Um gato de 45 dias de idade, sem raça definida e com histórico de inapetência desde o nascimento foi encaminhado para atendimento veterinário. Ao exame físico apresentou letargia e dispneia restritiva. À necropsia, havia acentuada ascite, hidrotórax, hepatomegalia com evidenciação do padrão lobular (fígado noz-moscada) e os pulmões apresentavam-se acentuadamente diminuídos (atelectasia pulmonar compressiva). O coração apresentava acentuada dilatação das câmaras cardíacas. Em ventrículo esquerdo, havia numerosas estruturas brancacentas semelhantes a cordas conectando o músculo papilar ao septo interventricular (bandas moderadoras excessivas/falsos tendões). Microscopicamente, estas estruturas apresentavam acentuada proliferação de tecido conjuntivo fibroso, além de células de Purkinje e cardiomiócitos bem diferenciadas revestidas por uma única camada de endocárdio. O objetivo deste trabalho é descrever um caso de bandas moderadoras excessivas (falsos tendões) em ventrículo esquerdo de um gato jovem com insuficiência cardíaca congestiva e morte.

Congestive heart failure in a young cat with excessive moderator bands (false tendons) in the left ventricle / Insuficiência cardíaca congestiva em um gato jovem com bandas moderadoras excessivas (falsos tendões) em ventrículo esquerdo

ABSTRACT: Left ventricular false tendons are fibrous or fibromuscular bands that transverse the ventricular cavity and have no attachment to the mitral valve in many species. In cats it is considered a congenital defect that is rarely related to clinical disease and death in adult cats. A 45 days-old mixed breed cat had a history of inappetence since birth. At the physical exam the patient was lethargic and presented restrictive dyspnoea. At necropsy, there were marked ascites, hydrothorax, hepatomegaly with enhanced lobular pattern (nutmeg liver), and the lungs were markedly diminished (compressive pulmonary atelectasis). The heart was enlarged due to marked dilation of the cardiac chambers. Moreover, multiple slightly whitish and irregular cord-like structures were connecting the posterior papillary muscle to the interventricular septum (excessive moderator bands /left ventricular false tendons) at the left ventricle. Microscopically, these structures were characterized by a marked proliferation of fibrous connective tissue intermixed with Purkinje cells and well-differentiated cardiomyocytes lined by a single layer of endocardium. This study described a case of excessive moderator bands (left ventricular false tendons) in a young cat associated with congestive heart failure and death.

RESUMO: Falsos tendões são bandas fibrosas ou fibromusculares que atravessam a cavidade do ventrículo esquerdo, sem ligação com a valva mitral, em várias espécies. Nos gatos, a alteração é considerada um defeito congênito que raramente está relacionada com alterações clínicas e morte em gatos adultos. Um gato de 45 dias de idade, sem raça definida e com histórico de inapetência desde o nascimento foi encaminhado para atendimento veterinário. Ao exame físico apresentou letargia e dispneia restritiva. À necropsia, havia acentuada ascite, hidrotórax, hepatomegalia com evidenciação do padrão lobular (fígado noz-moscada) e os pulmões apresentavam-se acentuadamente diminuídos (atelectasia pulmonar compressiva). O coração apresentava acentuada dilatação das câmaras cardíacas. Em ventrículo esquerdo, havia numerosas estruturas brancacentas semelhantes a cordas conectando o músculo papilar ao septo interventricular (bandas moderadoras excessivas/falsos tendões). Microscopicamente, estas estruturas apresentavam acentuada proliferação de tecido conjuntivo fibroso, além de células de Purkinje e cardiomiócitos bem diferenciadas revestidas por uma única camada de endocárdio. O objetivo deste trabalho é descrever um caso de bandas moderadoras excessivas (falsos tendões) em ventrículo esquerdo de um gato jovem com insuficiência cardíaca congestiva e morte.

Congestive heart failure in a young cat with excessive moderator bands (false tendons) in the left ventricle / Insuficiência cardíaca congestiva em um gato jovem com bandas moderadoras excessivas (falsos tendões) em ventrículo esquerdo

Left ventricular false tendons are fibrous or fibromuscular bands that transverse the ventricular cavity and have no attachment to the mitral valve in many species. In cats it is considered a congenital defect that is rarely related to clinical disease and death in adult cats. A 45 days-old mixed breed cat had a history of inappetence since birth. At the physical exam the patient was lethargic and presented restrictive dyspnoea. At necropsy, there were marked ascites, hydrothorax, hepatomegaly with enhanced lobular pattern (nutmeg liver), and the lungs were markedly diminished (compressive pulmonary atelectasis). The heart was enlarged due to marked dilation of the cardiac chambers. Moreover, multiple slightly whitish and irregular cord-like structures were connecting the posterior papillary muscle to the interventricular septum (excessive moderator bands /left ventricular false tendons) at the left ventricle. Microscopically, these structures were characterized by a marked proliferation of fibrous connective tissue intermixed with Purkinje cells and well-differentiated cardiomyocytes lined by a single layer of endocardium. This study described a case of excessive moderator bands (left ventricular false tendons) in a young cat associated with congestive heart failure and death.(AU)

Falsos tendões são bandas fibrosas ou fibromusculares que atravessam a cavidade do ventrículo esquerdo, sem ligação com a valva mitral, em várias espécies. Nos gatos, a alteração é considerada um defeito congênito que raramente está relacionada com alterações clínicas e morte em gatos adultos. Um gato de 45 dias de idade, sem raça definida e com histórico de inapetência desde o nascimento foi encaminhado para atendimento veterinário. Ao exame físico apresentou letargia e dispneia restritiva. À necropsia, havia acentuada ascite, hidrotórax, hepatomegalia com evidenciação do padrão lobular (fígado noz-moscada) e os pulmões apresentavam-se acentuadamente diminuídos (atelectasia pulmonar compressiva). O coração apresentava acentuada dilatação das câmaras cardíacas. Em ventrículo esquerdo, havia numerosas estruturas brancacentas semelhantes a cordas conectando o músculo papilar ao septo interventricular (bandas moderadoras excessivas/falsos tendões). Microscopicamente, estas estruturas apresentavam acentuada proliferação de tecido conjuntivo fibroso, além de células de Purkinje e cardiomiócitos bem diferenciadas revestidas por uma única camada de endocárdio. O objetivo deste trabalho é descrever um caso de bandas moderadoras excessivas (falsos tendões) em ventrículo esquerdo de um gato jovem com insuficiência cardíaca congestiva e morte.(AU)

Tuberculosis outbreak in intensive swine farming from southern Brazil / Surto de tuberculose em suínos de criação intensiva no Sul do Brasil

Mycobacterium tuberculosis var. bovis is the etiologic agent of animal tuberculosis (aTB), a neglected zoonotic disease. Animal tuberculosis can affect many species, including swine. aTB-consistent granulomas in these animals lead to carcass disposal, generating economic losses and posing risks to human health. In the present study, an aTB outbreak was identified at an intensive swine farming operation in Southern Brazil. Inspection during swine slaughter revealed aTB-suspected lesions, which were collected for diagnosis by histology, PCR, and bacterial isolation. The animals had no clinical signs of tuberculosis. Granulomatous lesions were identified in 0.73% (59/8,071) of the slaughtered swine, and were confirmed by histology. Nine samples were further examined by PCR and bacterial isolation, with 44.4% and 55.5% positive results, respectively. Data from abattoirs subjected to federal surveillance show an aTB prevalence in Brazil of <0.001%. The present data thus indicate a swine aTB outbreak in intensive breeding. Swine infection can be related to exposure to infected animals or to contaminated food or environment. Biosecurity measures must be taken to avoid aTB transmission. Although certified swine breeding farms adopt such measures, this report indicates that constant monitoring is crucial, and greater control in swine breeding and finishing units is required to prevent outbreaks and spread of tuberculosis.

Mycobacterium bovis é o agente etiológico da tuberculose animal (aTB), uma doença zoonótica negligenciada. A tuberculose animal pode afetar muitas espécies, incluindo suínos. Os granulomas compatíveis com a aTB nesses animais levam ao descarte de carcaças, gerando perdas econômicas e trazendo riscos à saúde humana. No presente estudo, um surto de aTB foi identificado em um sistema de criação intensiva de suínos na região Sul do Brasil. A inspeção durante um abate de suínos revelou lesões suspeitas de tuberculose, as quais foram coletadas para diagnóstico por histologia, PCR e isolamento bacteriano. Os animais não apresentavam sinais clínicos de tuberculose. Lesões granulomatosas foram identificadas em 0,73% (59/8.071) dos suínos abatidos, e foram confirmadas pela histologia. Nove amostras foram posteriormente examinadas por PCR e isolamento bacteriano, com 44,4% e 55,5% de resultados positivos, respectivamente. Dados de frigoríficos submetidos à vigilância federal demostram prevalência da aTB de < 0,001% no Brasil. Os dados presentes indicam, portanto, um surto de aTB em suínos de criação intensiva. A infecção em suínos pode estar relacionada à exposição a animais infectados, alimentos ou ambientes contaminados. Medidas de biossegurança devem ser tomadas para evitar a transmissão da aTB. Embora as granjas suinícolas certificadas adotem tais medidas, este relato indica que o monitoramento constante é crucial, e maior controle nas unidades de criação e terminação de suínos é necessário para prevenir surtos e disseminação da tuberculose.

Tuberculosis outbreak in intensive swine farming from southern Brazil / Surto de tuberculose em suínos de criação intensiva no Sul do Brasil

ABSTRACT: Mycobacterium tuberculosis var. bovis is the etiologic agent of animal tuberculosis (aTB), a neglected zoonotic disease. Animal tuberculosis can affect many species, including swine. aTB-consistent granulomas in these animals lead to carcass disposal, generating economic losses and posing risks to human health. In the present study, an aTB outbreak was identified at an intensive swine farming operation in Southern Brazil. Inspection during swine slaughter revealed aTB-suspected lesions, which were collected for diagnosis by histology, PCR, and bacterial isolation. The animals had no clinical signs of tuberculosis. Granulomatous lesions were identified in 0.73% (59/8,071) of the slaughtered swine, and were confirmed by histology. Nine samples were further examined by PCR and bacterial isolation, with 44.4% and 55.5% positive results, respectively. Data from abattoirs subjected to federal surveillance show an aTB prevalence in Brazil of <0.001%. The present data thus indicate a swine aTB outbreak in intensive breeding. Swine infection can be related to exposure to infected animals or to contaminated food or environment. Biosecurity measures must be taken to avoid aTB transmission. Although certified swine breeding farms adopt such measures, this report indicates that constant monitoring is crucial, and greater control in swine breeding and finishing units is required to prevent outbreaks and spread of tuberculosis.

RESUMO: Mycobacterium bovis é o agente etiológico da tuberculose animal (aTB), uma doença zoonótica negligenciada. A tuberculose animal pode afetar muitas espécies, incluindo suínos. Os granulomas compatíveis com a aTB nesses animais levam ao descarte de carcaças, gerando perdas econômicas e trazendo riscos à saúde humana. No presente estudo, um surto de aTB foi identificado em um sistema de criação intensiva de suínos na região Sul do Brasil. A inspeção durante um abate de suínos revelou lesões suspeitas de tuberculose, as quais foram coletadas para diagnóstico por histologia, PCR e isolamento bacteriano. Os animais não apresentavam sinais clínicos de tuberculose. Lesões granulomatosas foram identificadas em 0,73% (59/8.071) dos suínos abatidos, e foram confirmadas pela histologia. Nove amostras foram posteriormente examinadas por PCR e isolamento bacteriano, com 44,4% e 55,5% de resultados positivos, respectivamente. Dados de frigoríficos submetidos à vigilância federal demostram prevalência da aTB de < 0,001% no Brasil. Os dados presentes indicam, portanto, um surto de aTB em suínos de criação intensiva. A infecção em suínos pode estar relacionada à exposição a animais infectados, alimentos ou ambientes contaminados. Medidas de biossegurança devem ser tomadas para evitar a transmissão da aTB. Embora as granjas suinícolas certificadas adotem tais medidas, este relato indica que o monitoramento constante é crucial, e maior controle nas unidades de criação e terminação de suínos é necessário para prevenir surtos e disseminação da tuberculose.

Tuberculosis outbreak in intensive swine farming from southern Brazil / Surto de tuberculose em suínos de criação intensiva no Sul do Brasil

Mycobacterium tuberculosis var. bovis is the etiologic agent of animal tuberculosis (aTB), a neglected zoonotic disease. Animal tuberculosis can affect many species, including swine. aTB-consistent granulomas in these animals lead to carcass disposal, generating economic losses and posing risks to human health. In the present study, an aTB outbreak was identified at an intensive swine farming operation in Southern Brazil. Inspection during swine slaughter revealed aTB-suspected lesions, which were collected for diagnosis by histology, PCR, and bacterial isolation. The animals had no clinical signs of tuberculosis. Granulomatous lesions were identified in 0.73% (59/8,071) of the slaughtered swine, and were confirmed by histology. Nine samples were further examined by PCR and bacterial isolation, with 44.4% and 55.5% positive results, respectively. Data from abattoirs subjected to federal surveillance show an aTB prevalence in Brazil of <0.001%. The present data thus indicate a swine aTB outbreak in intensive breeding. Swine infection can be related to exposure to infected animals or to contaminated food or environment. Biosecurity measures must be taken to avoid aTB transmission. Although certified swine breeding farms adopt such measures, this report indicates that constant monitoring is crucial, and greater control in swine breeding and finishing units is required to prevent outbreaks and spread of tuberculosis.(AU)

Mycobacterium bovis é o agente etiológico da tuberculose animal (aTB), uma doença zoonótica negligenciada. A tuberculose animal pode afetar muitas espécies, incluindo suínos. Os granulomas compatíveis com a aTB nesses animais levam ao descarte de carcaças, gerando perdas econômicas e trazendo riscos à saúde humana. No presente estudo, um surto de aTB foi identificado em um sistema de criação intensiva de suínos na região Sul do Brasil. A inspeção durante um abate de suínos revelou lesões suspeitas de tuberculose, as quais foram coletadas para diagnóstico por histologia, PCR e isolamento bacteriano. Os animais não apresentavam sinais clínicos de tuberculose. Lesões granulomatosas foram identificadas em 0,73% (59/8.071) dos suínos abatidos, e foram confirmadas pela histologia. Nove amostras foram posteriormente examinadas por PCR e isolamento bacteriano, com 44,4% e 55,5% de resultados positivos, respectivamente. Dados de frigoríficos submetidos à vigilância federal demostram prevalência da aTB de < 0,001% no Brasil. Os dados presentes indicam, portanto, um surto de aTB em suínos de criação intensiva. A infecção em suínos pode estar relacionada à exposição a animais infectados, alimentos ou ambientes contaminados. Medidas de biossegurança devem ser tomadas para evitar a transmissão da aTB. Embora as granjas suinícolas certificadas adotem tais medidas, este relato indica que o monitoramento constante é crucial, e maior controle nas unidades de criação e terminação de suínos é necessário para prevenir surtos e disseminação da tuberculose.(AU)

Carcinoid of the gallbladder in two dogs / Carcinoide de vesícula biliar em dois cães

A carcinoid is a rare neoplasm derived from neuroendocrine cells that may arise in the hepatobiliary system. This report described two cases of carcinoid of the gallbladder in dogs, with emphasis on the clinical, pathological and immunohistochemical aspects. Case 1 was a 10-year-old female Shih Tzu, with a history of prostration and occasional episodes of diarrhea and vomiting. Case 2 was a 10-year-old male Cocker Spaniel, with a history of diarrhea and abdominal pain. Abdominal ultrasonography suggested a neoplasm of the gallbladder in both cases. The dogs underwent cholecystectomy, and 10% formalin-fixed samples were sent for pathological examination. Histologically, a neoplastic proliferation of neuroendocrine cells was observed in the gallbladder submucosa of both cases. Immunohistochemical labeling for neuroendocrine antibodies, such as synaptophysin, neuron-specific enolase and chromogranin A, confirmed the diagnoses. Carcinoid of the gallbladder is a rare neoplasm in dogs, without specific clinical signs, but should be included in the differential diagnosis of lesions that affect this organ.(AU)

Carcinoide é um neoplasma raro derivado de células neuroendócrinas, que pode surgir no sistema hepatobiliar. Este relato descreve dois casos de carcinoide da vesícula biliar em cães, com ênfase nos aspectos clínicos, patológicos e imuno-histoquímicos. O caso 1 era uma fêmea, Shih Tzu de 10 anos de idade, com histórico de letargia e ocasionais episódios de diarreia e vômito. O caso 2 era um macho, Cocker Spaniel de 10 anos, que apresentava diarreia e dor abdominal. Através da ultrassonografia abdominal foi sugerida neoplasia na vesícula biliar em ambos os casos. Os caninos foram submetidos à colecistectomia e amostras em formol a 10%, seguidamente, foram enviadas para o laboratório de patologia. Histologicamente, observou-se proliferação neoplásica de células neuroendócrinas na submucosa da vesícula biliar nos dois casos. A marcação imuno-histoquímica para os anticorpos neuroendócrinos, como sinaptofisina, enolase específica de neurônios e cromogranina A confirmou o diagnóstico. Carcinoide de vesícula biliar é uma neoplasia rara em cães, sem sinais clínicos específicos, mas deve ser incluída no diagnóstico diferencial das lesões que afetam esse órgão.(AU)

Aspectos epidemiológicos e patológicos do complexo granuloma eosinofílico felino / Epidemiologic and pathologic aspects of feline eosinophilic granuloma complex

Background: The feline eosinophilic granuloma complex (FEGC) includes a group of lesions that affect the skin, mucocutaneous junctions, and oral cavity of cats. It comprises three distinct clinical entities: the eosinophilic ulcer (EU), theeosinophilic plaque (EP) and the eosinophilic granuloma (EG). The EU is usually found in the upper lip. Lesions of EPoccur most commonly on the abdomen and medial thigh. The EG lesions usually appear on the tongue and hard palate.The aim of this study is to describe the localization and pathological findings of FEGC through a retrospective study andtesting by immunohistochemistry if feline herpesvirus type 1 (FHV-1) infection may be associated.Materials, Methods & Results: The records of biopsy specimens from the Department of Veterinary Pathology of theUniversidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul were recovered and cats diagnosed with FEGC were selected since January2006 to December 2017. General data, such as age, sex, breed and distribution lesions, were analyzed and compiled. Thehistological slides were reviewed by optical microscopy and the microscopic findings were detailed. Sections of tissuewere used in immunohistochemistry to investigate the presence of feline herpesvirus-1 (FHV-1) using anti-FHV-1 antibody. In this study, 30 cats were diagnosed with FEGC. Most part of the cats were mixed breed (27/30), and there wereno sex predisposition. The age of the cats ranged from seven months to 13 years old, and the median was three years. Thelesion distribution of FEGC was 40% in oral cavity, 33.3% in skin and 26.6% in mucocutaneous junction. Histologically,the main lesion of all distributions was characterized by diffuse dermal/submucosa inflammatory infiltrate composed ofeosinophils. Within the inflammation there were large irregular foci of collagen...

Aspectos epidemiológicos e patológicos do complexo granuloma eosinofílico felino / Epidemiologic and pathologic aspects of feline eosinophilic granuloma complex

Background: The feline eosinophilic granuloma complex (FEGC) includes a group of lesions that affect the skin, mucocutaneous junctions, and oral cavity of cats. It comprises three distinct clinical entities: the eosinophilic ulcer (EU), theeosinophilic plaque (EP) and the eosinophilic granuloma (EG). The EU is usually found in the upper lip. Lesions of EPoccur most commonly on the abdomen and medial thigh. The EG lesions usually appear on the tongue and hard palate.The aim of this study is to describe the localization and pathological findings of FEGC through a retrospective study andtesting by immunohistochemistry if feline herpesvirus type 1 (FHV-1) infection may be associated.Materials, Methods & Results: The records of biopsy specimens from the Department of Veterinary Pathology of theUniversidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul were recovered and cats diagnosed with FEGC were selected since January2006 to December 2017. General data, such as age, sex, breed and distribution lesions, were analyzed and compiled. Thehistological slides were reviewed by optical microscopy and the microscopic findings were detailed. Sections of tissuewere used in immunohistochemistry to investigate the presence of feline herpesvirus-1 (FHV-1) using anti-FHV-1 antibody. In this study, 30 cats were diagnosed with FEGC. Most part of the cats were mixed breed (27/30), and there wereno sex predisposition. The age of the cats ranged from seven months to 13 years old, and the median was three years. Thelesion distribution of FEGC was 40% in oral cavity, 33.3% in skin and 26.6% in mucocutaneous junction. Histologically,the main lesion of all distributions was characterized by diffuse dermal/submucosa inflammatory infiltrate composed ofeosinophils. Within the inflammation there were large irregular foci of collagen...(AU)

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

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.(AU)

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.(AU)

Nasal peripheral primitive neuroectodermal tumor in a heifer: case report / Tumor neuroectodérmico primitivo periférico na cavidade nasal em uma novilha: relato de caso

This report described the clinical signs, pathological and immunohistochemical findings associated with a peripheral primitive neuroectodermal tumor (pPNET) in the nasal cavity of a heifer. The heifer exhibited severe breathing difficulty and dysphagia, which were increased over the last thirty days. At autopsy, a large, firm, and whitish mass was found occupying the left frontal sinus and most of the left nasal cavity. Histologically, a malignant neoplastic proliferation was observed, which was composed of small cells typically arranged in nests and mantles, occasionally arranged in palisade, interspersed with moderate connective stroma. The neoplastic cells exhibited strong immunoreactivity to synaptophysin, mild, multifocal immunoreactivity to neuron-specific enolase and vimentin, with moderate, and multifocal immunoreactivity S-100 protein. These findings suggest that pPNETs should be included in the differential diagnosis of proliferative and obstructive lesions in the nasal cavity of young cattle.(AU)

Este relato descreve os sinais clínicos, achados patológicos e imuno-histoquímicos associados a um tumor neuroectodérmico primitivo periférico (pPNET) na cavidade nasal de uma novilha. A novilha apresentava dificuldade respiratória e de deglutição, com evolução de trinta dias. Na autópsia, no seio frontal esquerdo e ocupando quase toda a cavidade nasal esquerda foi observada uma grande massa firme e esbranquiçada. Histologicamente, observou-se proliferação neoplásica maligna composta de pequenas células dispostas em ninhos e manto, ocasionalmente em paliçada, intercaladas por estroma conjuntivo moderado. As células neoplásicas exibiram intensa imunomarcação para sinaptofisina, marcação leve e multifocal para enolase neurônio especifica e vimentina, com multifocal e moderada imunorreação para a proteína S-100. Esses achados sugerem que o pPNET deve ser incluído no diagnóstico diferencial de lesões proliferativas e obstrutivas na cavidade nasal de bovinos jovens.(AU)

Hepatite lobular dissecante em dois caninos Golden Retriever não relacionados geneticamente / Lobular dissecting hepatitis in two Golden Retriever dogs genetically unrelated

Background: Lobular dissecting hepatitis (LDH) is a rare condition of unknown etiology occurring in individuals or in litters of young dogs from some breeds, having poor prognosis and short survival time. Clinically, ascites, weight loss, anorexia, diarrhea and acquired portosystemic shunts are present. Hepatic encephalopathy may also occur. Biochemical blood tests usually show elevated ALT levels. Macroscopically, the liver shows changes in volume, color and regeneration nodules. Histologically, dissection of the parenchyma by connective tissue proliferation leads to disorganization of the liver architecture. The aim of this article is report LDH in two Golden Retriever dogs genetically unrelated.Cases: Two dogs genetically unrelated and of different owners - Golden Retriever breed - were referred to the Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital of the Universidade Luterana do Brasil (ULBRA). The first case was a female with 17 months of age and the second, brought to examination one year later, was a male with nine months of age. The clinical signs, in both animals were similar, consisting in intense prostration, inapetence, caquexia and ascites for approximately two weeks. The female dog presented also ataxia, convulsion and diarrhea. Blood examination showed, for both dogs, arregenerative anemia, normal levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and elevated levels of alkaline phosphatase. Total serum protein and albumin were also reduced. Both dogs were euthanized due to their critical condition. The necropsy showed similar lesions in both animals: approximately one liter of a free red colored fluid was observed in the abdominal cavity and hepatic changes consisting in pale green color, smooth surface, firm consistence, yellowish nodules at the surface and tissue proliferation at the margins. There was also congestion of the abdominal visceral veins (portal shunts)...

Hepatite lobular dissecante em dois caninos Golden Retriever não relacionados geneticamente / Lobular dissecting hepatitis in two Golden Retriever dogs genetically unrelated

Background: Lobular dissecting hepatitis (LDH) is a rare condition of unknown etiology occurring in individuals or in litters of young dogs from some breeds, having poor prognosis and short survival time. Clinically, ascites, weight loss, anorexia, diarrhea and acquired portosystemic shunts are present. Hepatic encephalopathy may also occur. Biochemical blood tests usually show elevated ALT levels. Macroscopically, the liver shows changes in volume, color and regeneration nodules. Histologically, dissection of the parenchyma by connective tissue proliferation leads to disorganization of the liver architecture. The aim of this article is report LDH in two Golden Retriever dogs genetically unrelated.Cases: Two dogs genetically unrelated and of different owners - Golden Retriever breed - were referred to the Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital of the Universidade Luterana do Brasil (ULBRA). The first case was a female with 17 months of age and the second, brought to examination one year later, was a male with nine months of age. The clinical signs, in both animals were similar, consisting in intense prostration, inapetence, caquexia and ascites for approximately two weeks. The female dog presented also ataxia, convulsion and diarrhea. Blood examination showed, for both dogs, arregenerative anemia, normal levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and elevated levels of alkaline phosphatase. Total serum protein and albumin were also reduced. Both dogs were euthanized due to their critical condition. The necropsy showed similar lesions in both animals: approximately one liter of a free red colored fluid was observed in the abdominal cavity and hepatic changes consisting in pale green color, smooth surface, firm consistence, yellowish nodules at the surface and tissue proliferation at the margins. There was also congestion of the abdominal visceral veins (portal shunts)...(AU)

Prototheca zopfii genotype 2 disseminated infection in a dog with neurological signs

ABSTRACT: Prototheca zopfii is an alga that can cause disease in animals and humans. Here, we reported a case of systemic protothecosis in a 2-year-old female Boxer. The animal exhibited tetraparesis and vertical nystagmus. It died two weeks after the onset of clinical signs and was necropsied. At gross examination, whitish areas were identified in the heart. Oval or round structures were observed by microscopic examination, some of which formed morula-like structures compatible with algae in the heart, skeletal muscle, and brain. Growth of Prototheca sp. was observed in the heart after culture at 37°C on Sabouraud agar medium with chloramphenicol. Immunohistochemical analysis of the heart and brain using an anti-Prototheca zopfii polyclonal antibody yielded positive results. Genotyping of the cultured agent from brain and heart samples was performed by restriction fragment length polymorphism of a specific 18S rDNA fragment. P. zopfii genotype 2 was reported to be the cause of disseminated protothecosis in this dog with manifestation in the brain, heart, and skeletal muscle.

RESUMO: A prototecose é uma infecção causada por algas, causadora de doenças em animais e seres humanos. O presente trabalho tem por objetivo relatar um caso de prototecose sistêmica em um canino fêmea, da raça Boxer de dois anos de idade. O animal apresentava tetraparesia e nistagmo vertical. O animal morreu duas semanas após o início dos sinais clínicos e foi realizado o exame de necropsia. Os achados macroscópicos se caracterizavam principalmente por áreas esbranquiçadas no miocárdio. Na histologia observou-se estruturas ovais ou redondas, algumas apresentando estruturas como mórulas compatíveis com Prototheca no coração, músculo esquelético e encéfalo. No cultivo do miocárdio em meio Agar Sabouraud com Chloramphenicol a 37oC foi observado o crescimento de Prototheca sp. No teste imuno-histoquímico do coração, cérebro e cerebelo com anticorpo policlonal anti-P. zopffi, foi observada marcação positiva. Teste de PCR a partir da cultura do agente usando uma sequência de 18S rDNA foi realizado para a tipificação do genótipo. P. zopfii genótipo 2 foi encontrado como causa de prototecose disseminada no encéfalo, coração e músculo esquelético nesse cão.

Retrospective study of pneumony by Aelurostrongylus abstrusus in cats / Estudo retrospectivo de pneumonia por Aelurostrongylus abstrusus em gatos

Background: Aelurostrongylus abstrusus is a lungworm of cats with worldwide distribution. The adult forms of this parasite live in terminal bronchioles and alveoli, and can cause an asymptomatic disease or predominantly respiratory clinical signs, which can be occasionally cause of death. The aim of this study is to describe the epidemiological and pathological findings of infection by A. abstrusus through a necropsy retrospective study. Materials, Methods & Results: the necropsy records from the Department of Veterinary Pathology of the Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul were recovered and cats diagnosed with lungworm by Aelurostrongylus abstrusus were selected since January 1998 until December 2015. General data, such as age, sex, breed, clinical signs, and macroscopic lesions, were analyzed and compiled. The histological slides were reviewed by optical microscopy and detailed the microscopic aspects. In this study, were identified 22 cats with varying degrees of lungworm by A. abstrusus, and in 45.5% of the cases, this was the cause of death. Most part of the cats were mixed breed (19/22), and there were no sex predisposition. The age of the cats ranged from four months to 11 years old, and the most frequent age group was three to six years, with nine cases reported. In 37.5% of the cases were reported respiratory clinical signs, such as dyspnea and nasal [...]

Retrospective study of pneumony by Aelurostrongylus abstrusus in cats / Estudo retrospectivo de pneumonia por Aelurostrongylus abstrusus em gatos

Background: Aelurostrongylus abstrusus is a lungworm of cats with worldwide distribution. The adult forms of this parasite live in terminal bronchioles and alveoli, and can cause an asymptomatic disease or predominantly respiratory clinical signs, which can be occasionally cause of death. The aim of this study is to describe the epidemiological and pathological findings of infection by A. abstrusus through a necropsy retrospective study. Materials, Methods & Results: the necropsy records from the Department of Veterinary Pathology of the Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul were recovered and cats diagnosed with lungworm by Aelurostrongylus abstrusus were selected since January 1998 until December 2015. General data, such as age, sex, breed, clinical signs, and macroscopic lesions, were analyzed and compiled. The histological slides were reviewed by optical microscopy and detailed the microscopic aspects. In this study, were identified 22 cats with varying degrees of lungworm by A. abstrusus, and in 45.5% of the cases, this was the cause of death. Most part of the cats were mixed breed (19/22), and there were no sex predisposition. The age of the cats ranged from four months to 11 years old, and the most frequent age group was three to six years, with nine cases reported. In 37.5% of the cases were reported respiratory clinical signs, such as dyspnea and nasal [...](AU)