Melanoma oral amelanótico metastático com acometimento neurológico e gonadal em um cão fêmea - relato de caso / [Metastatic oral amelanotic melanoma with neurologic and gonadal involvement in a female dog - case report]

Relata-se um caso de melanoma oral disseminado em uma cadela de dois anos, com protrusão de bulbo ocular unilateral e quadro convulsivo progressivo. Os exames de imagem revelaram aumento de volume nas regiões submandibular, maxilar e cerebral, padrão nodular pulmonar e aumento das dimensões ovarianas. A citologia da massa submandibular indicou proliferação epitelial maligna, enquanto a biópsia excisional foi sugestiva de melanoma amelanótico. Na necropsia, havia uma massa gengival localmente infiltrativa e nodulações brancas nos linfonodos, nos rins, no pulmão, no cérebro e nos ovários, indicativas de metástase. O diagnóstico histopatológico consistiu de neoplasia maligna metastática indiferenciada, indicativo de melanoma amelanótico. Células caracterizadas por núcleo com cromatina espessa, múltiplos nucléolos bem evidentes, mitoses atípicas e multinucleações consistiram nos principais critérios de malignidade. No espaço peritrabecular ósseo facial, havia rara diferenciação pigmentar melanocítica, confirmada histoquimicamente pela técnica de Fontana-Massom e Giemsa. Algumas células foram positivas pela imuno-histoquímica para PNL-2 e Melan-A, e o diagnóstico de melanoma amelanótico disseminado foi firmado. A indiferenciação neoplásica marcante, com disseminação metastática multissistêmica e acometimento mútuo de sítios anatômicos pouco comuns, conjuntamente com a ampla variação dos padrões celulares, foi responsável pelo desafio diagnóstico do presente caso, ressaltando o papel decisivo da imuno-histoquímica para confirmação diagnóstica. A importância clínica deste trabalho consiste ainda em alertar a comunidade clínica e científica acerca da dificuldade diagnóstica, devendo-se considerar o melanoma amelanótico como diferencial mesmo em casos de lesões orais menos perceptíveis e/ou desprovidas de pigmentação.(AU)

A case of disseminated oral melanoma in a two year old female dog with unilateral protuberance of the eye bulb and progressive seizure is described. Imaging exams revealed increase of the submandibular, maxillary and cerebral regions, nodular pattern in lungs and increased ovarian dimensions. The cytology of the submandibular mass indicated a malignant epithelial proliferation, whereas the excisional biopsy indicated an amelanotic melanoma. At necropsy, a locally infiltrating gingival mass and white nodules in the lymph nodes, kidneys, lung, brain and ovaries were observed, indicative of metastases. Histopathological diagnosis consisted of an undifferentiated malignant metastatic neoplasm. Nucleus with coarse chromatin, prominent nucleoli, bizarre mitotic figures and multinucleated cells were the major malignant features. There was a poor melanocytic pigment differentiation in the peritrabecular space of facial bones, confirmed by Fontana-Masson and Giemsa histochemical techniques. Only a few cells were immunohistochemically positive for PNL-2 and Melan-A and the diagnosis of a disseminated amelanotic melanoma was performed. The diagnostic challenge was based on marked neoplastic undifferentiation, with multisystemic metastasis and mutual involvement of uncommon anatomic sites, associated with a large variability of cellular patterns, highlighting the decisive role of immunohistochemistry for diagnostic confirmation. Therefore, the clinical importance of this study is to warn the clinical and scientific community about the diagnostic challenge, considering the amelanotic melanoma as a differential even in cases of poorly apparent and/or nonpigmented oral lesions.(AU)

Vertebral Osteomyelitis in Broilers: A Review

ABSTRACT Locomotor diseases are still a challenge in modern poultry. Vertebral osteomyelitis (VO) is an emerging disease in broilers worldwide. The inflammatory process in the affected thoracic vertebra (T4) and subsequent spinal cord compression leads to clinical signs related to locomotor impairment, inadequate feeding and drinking, and increased mortality in the affected flocks. The pathogenesis of the disease is poorly understood and Enterococcus cecorum is the bacterium most frequently associated with the disease. However, other bacteria such as E. faecalis, E. durans, Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus have been recently detected in cases of the disease, raising questions regarding its etiopathogenesis. As many questions about VO in broilers remain unanswered, knowledge on its prevention, control and treatment is limited. In this review, we compile and discuss the currently available information concerning VO in broilers and highlight important aspects of the disease.

Placental osseous metaplasia associated with abortion in a mare: case report / Metaplasia óssea placentária associada a aborto em uma égua: relato de caso

The aim of this report is to describe a case of marked osseous metaplasia in the placenta associated with abortion in a mare. A 19-year-old Campolina mare with a history of multiple parturitions and absence of reproductive failure, aborted a fetus with approximately six months of gestation. There were no gross changes in the fetus and the placenta. Microscopically, there was multifocal replacement of fetal connective mesenchyme of the chorionic villi with well differentiated and partially mineralized osseous tissue (confirmed by von Kossa staining). To further characterize the collagenous component of the lesion, sections of the placenta were stained with Masson's trichrome and Picrosirius red. Osseous tissue deposition had abundance of type I collagen. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of osseous metaplasia in the placenta of a mare associated with abortion at mid gestation, presumably due to placentary insufficiency.(AU)

O objetivo deste relato é descrever um caso de metaplasia óssea em placenta equina, associada a aborto. Uma égua da raça Campolina, com aproximadamente 19 anos de idade, após múltiplas gestações e sem histórico de alterações reprodutivas, abortou feto com idade aproximada de seis meses. Não foram observadas alterações macroscópicas no feto e na placenta. Microscopicamente, havia substituição do mesênquima de vilosidades coriônicas por tecido ósseo bem diferenciado e parcialmente mineralizado (confirmada pela coloração de von Kossa). Para caracterização do componente colagenoso, foram realizadas colorações de tricrômico de Masson e picrosirius red. O tecido ósseo tinha predominância de colágeno do tipo I. Este é o primeiro relato de metaplasia óssea na placenta equina, associada a aborto no terço médio da gestação, presumivelmente devido à insuficiência placentária.(AU)

Placental osseous metaplasia associated with abortion in a mare: case report / Metaplasia óssea placentária associada a aborto em uma égua: relato de caso

The aim of this report is to describe a case of marked osseous metaplasia in the placenta associated with abortion in a mare. A 19-year-old Campolina mare with a history of multiple parturitions and absence of reproductive failure, aborted a fetus with approximately six months of gestation. There were no gross changes in the fetus and the placenta. Microscopically, there was multifocal replacement of fetal connective mesenchyme of the chorionic villi with well differentiated and partially mineralized osseous tissue (confirmed by von Kossa staining). To further characterize the collagenous component of the lesion, sections of the placenta were stained with Masson's trichrome and Picrosirius red. Osseous tissue deposition had abundance of type I collagen. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of osseous metaplasia in the placenta of a mare associated with abortion at mid gestation, presumably due to placentary insufficiency.(AU)

O objetivo deste relato é descrever um caso de metaplasia óssea em placenta equina, associada a aborto. Uma égua da raça Campolina, com aproximadamente 19 anos de idade, após múltiplas gestações e sem histórico de alterações reprodutivas, abortou feto com idade aproximada de seis meses. Não foram observadas alterações macroscópicas no feto e na placenta. Microscopicamente, havia substituição do mesênquima de vilosidades coriônicas por tecido ósseo bem diferenciado e parcialmente mineralizado (confirmada pela coloração de von Kossa). Para caracterização do componente colagenoso, foram realizadas colorações de tricrômico de Masson e picrosirius red. O tecido ósseo tinha predominância de colágeno do tipo I. Este é o primeiro relato de metaplasia óssea na placenta equina, associada a aborto no terço médio da gestação, presumivelmente devido à insuficiência placentária.(AU)

Vertebral Osteomyelitis in Broilers: A Review

Locomotor diseases are still a challenge in modern poultry. Vertebral osteomyelitis (VO) is an emerging disease in broilers worldwide. The inflammatory process in the affected thoracic vertebra (T4) and subsequent spinal cord compression leads to clinical signs related to locomotor impairment, inadequate feeding and drinking, and increased mortality in the affected flocks. The pathogenesis of the disease is poorly understood and Enterococcus cecorum is the bacterium most frequently associated with the disease. However, other bacteria such as E. faecalis, E. durans, Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus have been recently detected in cases of the disease, raising questions regarding its etiopathogenesis. As many questions about VO in broilers remain unanswered, knowledge on its prevention, control and treatment is limited. In this review, we compile and discuss the currently available information concerning VO in broilers and highlight important aspects of the disease.(AU)

Vertebral Osteomyelitis in Broilers: A Review

Locomotor diseases are still a challenge in modern poultry. Vertebral osteomyelitis (VO) is an emerging disease in broilers worldwide. The inflammatory process in the affected thoracic vertebra (T4) and subsequent spinal cord compression leads to clinical signs related to locomotor impairment, inadequate feeding and drinking, and increased mortality in the affected flocks. The pathogenesis of the disease is poorly understood and Enterococcus cecorum is the bacterium most frequently associated with the disease. However, other bacteria such as E. faecalis, E. durans, Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus have been recently detected in cases of the disease, raising questions regarding its etiopathogenesis. As many questions about VO in broilers remain unanswered, knowledge on its prevention, control and treatment is limited. In this review, we compile and discuss the currently available information concerning VO in broilers and highlight important aspects of the disease.

Estudo retrospectivo da casuística de felinos domésticos no Hospital Veterinário da Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, no período de 2005 a 2014 / Retrospective study of the case load of domestic cats at the Veterinary Hospital of the Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais from 2005 to 2014

O objetivo deste estudo foi caracterizar as doenças dos gatos domésticos provenientes dos casos de necropsia e histopatologia do Hospital Veterinário da Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (HV/UFMG), de 2005 a 2014. Foram analisados 408 exames de necropsia e 197 de biópsias, segundo o sexo, a faixa etária e a raça. Os diagnósticos mais frequentes incluíram doenças infecciosas/inflamatórias ou parasitárias (22,5%), agentes físicos (18,1%), doenças proliferativas (15,2%) e degenerativas (13,5%). Politraumatismo (10,8%) foi responsável pelo maior número de mortes em felinos, sendo as chances três vezes maiores em animais com até 24 meses de idade (P=0,005 OR 3,47 [IC 95%: 1,40-8,57]). Neoplasias epiteliais corresponderam a 26 diagnósticos, sendo 20 (4,9%) casos de malignidade. A ocorrência de carcinoma e seus subtipos foi 18 vezes maior em gatos idosos (P<0,01 OR 18,15 [IC 95%: 7,41-44,45]). A insuficiência renal crônica foi mais frequente em gatos com mais de 120 meses (P=0,01). Machos apresentaram nove vezes mais chances de desenvolver doenças do trato urinário inferior quando comparados às fêmeas (P=0,001 OR 9,50 [IC 95%: 2,78-32,48]). Em relação às biópsias, animais adultos a idosos foram 10 vezes mais representados (P<0,001 OR 10,8 [IC 95%: 3,22-36,79]).(AU)

The aim of this study was to characterize the diseases of domestic cats based on necropsy and histopathological examinations at the Veterinary Hospital of the Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (HV/UFMG) from 2005 to 2014. A total of 408 necropsy and 197 biopsy samples were analyzed according to gender, age, and breed. The most frequent diagnoses included infectious/inflammatory or parasitic diseases (22.5%), physical agents (18.1%), proliferative (15.2%), and degenerative (13.5%) diseases. Polytrauma (10.8%) was responsible for the highest number of feline deaths, with the odds three times higher in animals up to 24 months of age (P= 0.005 OR 3.47 [95% CI: 1.40-8.57]). Epithelial neoplasms corresponded to 26 diagnoses, with 20 (4.9%) malignant cases. The occurrence of carcinoma and its subtypes was 18-fold higher in older cats (P< 0.01 OR 18.15 [95% CI: 7.41-44.45]). Chronic renal failure was more frequent in cats over 120 months (P= 0.01). Males were nine times more likely to develop lower urinary tract diseases when compared to females (P= 0.001 OR 9.50 [95% CI: 2.78-32.48]). Regarding the biopsies, adult to elderly animals were ten times more represented (P< 0.001 OR 10.8 [95% CI: 3.22-36.79]).(AU)

Estudo retrospectivo da casuística de felinos domésticos no Hospital Veterinário da Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, no período de 2005 a 2014 / Retrospective study of the case load of domestic cats at the Veterinary Hospital of the Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais from 2005 to 2014

O objetivo deste estudo foi caracterizar as doenças dos gatos domésticos provenientes dos casos de necropsia e histopatologia do Hospital Veterinário da Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (HV/UFMG), de 2005 a 2014. Foram analisados 408 exames de necropsia e 197 de biópsias, segundo o sexo, a faixa etária e a raça. Os diagnósticos mais frequentes incluíram doenças infecciosas/inflamatórias ou parasitárias (22,5%), agentes físicos (18,1%), doenças proliferativas (15,2%) e degenerativas (13,5%). Politraumatismo (10,8%) foi responsável pelo maior número de mortes em felinos, sendo as chances três vezes maiores em animais com até 24 meses de idade (P=0,005 OR 3,47 [IC 95%: 1,40-8,57]). Neoplasias epiteliais corresponderam a 26 diagnósticos, sendo 20 (4,9%) casos de malignidade. A ocorrência de carcinoma e seus subtipos foi 18 vezes maior em gatos idosos (P<0,01 OR 18,15 [IC 95%: 7,41-44,45]). A insuficiência renal crônica foi mais frequente em gatos com mais de 120 meses (P=0,01). Machos apresentaram nove vezes mais chances de desenvolver doenças do trato urinário inferior quando comparados às fêmeas (P=0,001 OR 9,50 [IC 95%: 2,78-32,48]). Em relação às biópsias, animais adultos a idosos foram 10 vezes mais representados (P<0,001 OR 10,8 [IC 95%: 3,22-36,79]).(AU)

The aim of this study was to characterize the diseases of domestic cats based on necropsy and histopathological examinations at the Veterinary Hospital of the Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais (HV/UFMG) from 2005 to 2014. A total of 408 necropsy and 197 biopsy samples were analyzed according to gender, age, and breed. The most frequent diagnoses included infectious/inflammatory or parasitic diseases (22.5%), physical agents (18.1%), proliferative (15.2%), and degenerative (13.5%) diseases. Polytrauma (10.8%) was responsible for the highest number of feline deaths, with the odds three times higher in animals up to 24 months of age (P= 0.005 OR 3.47 [95% CI: 1.40-8.57]). Epithelial neoplasms corresponded to 26 diagnoses, with 20 (4.9%) malignant cases. The occurrence of carcinoma and its subtypes was 18-fold higher in older cats (P< 0.01 OR 18.15 [95% CI: 7.41-44.45]). Chronic renal failure was more frequent in cats over 120 months (P= 0.01). Males were nine times more likely to develop lower urinary tract diseases when compared to females (P= 0.001 OR 9.50 [95% CI: 2.78-32.48]). Regarding the biopsies, adult to elderly animals were ten times more represented (P< 0.001 OR 10.8 [95% CI: 3.22-36.79]).(AU)

Bone marrow bi-hypoplasia in a dog with a sertoli cell tumor / Hipoplasia dupla de medula óssea em um cão com tumor de células de sertoli

A 20-year-old unneutered male poodle presented prostration, apathy, staggering gait, lack of appetite and tick infestation. The dog was diagnosed with a Sertoli cell tumor in an undescended testicle by cytological, histopathological and immunohistochemical tests. Pancytopenia with moderate nonregenerative anemia, leukopenia and severe thrombocytopenia were detected in the complete blood count. Cytological and histopathological evaluation of the bone marrow revealed a cellularity of 30%, with erythroid (59%), lymphoid (40%) and mast cells (1%), and an absence of granulocytic, monocytic and megakaryocytic lineage cells. In post-mortem examinations, changes related to hemostatic disorders were found. The absence of microorganisms in molecular tests and an estrogen serum concentration over reference values confirmed hyperestrogenism as a possible cause of pancytopenia. The literature describes a Sertoli cell tumor hyperestrogenism that induced pancytopenia, along with bone marrow hypoplasia of all hematopoietic lineages. In contrast, in the present case, the erythroid precursor cells were preserved in the bone marrow, although there were no reticulocytes circulating in the blood. This case, therefore, should be considered in future investigations of pancytopenia induced by Sertoli cell tumor hyperestrogenism.(AU)

Um cão Poodle, macho, de 20 anos, não castrado, apresentou prostração, apatia, andar cambaleante, falta de apetite e infestação por carrapatos. Nesse animal, foi diagnosticado tumor de células de Sertoli em um testículo não descendente, utilizando-se citologia, histopatologia e imuno-histoquímica. Pancitopenia com anemia moderada não regenerativa, leucopenia e trombocitopenia intensas foram detectadas no hemograma. Na avaliação citológica e histopatológica da medula óssea, havia celularidade de 30%, constituída pelas linhagens eritroide (59%) e linfoide (40%) e por mastócitos (1%), com ausência de células das linhagens granulocítica, monocítica e megacariocítica. Em exames post mortem, mudanças relacionadas à hemostasia foram encontradas. A ausência de micro-organismos nos testes moleculares e a concentração sérica de estrogênio acima dos valores de referência confirmaram hiperestrogenismo como a possível causa da pancitopenia. A literatura descreve hiperestrogenismo em tumores de células de Sertoli induzindo pancitopenia associada com hipoplasia da medula óssea de todas as linhagens hematopoiéticas. Em contraste, no presente caso, as células precursoras eritróides estavam preservadas na medula óssea, embora não houvesse reticulócitos no sangue. Assim, o relato apresentado deve ser considerado em futuras investigações de pancitopenia induzida por hiperestrogenismo em tumor de células de Sertoli.(AU)

Bone marrow bi-hypoplasia in a dog with a sertoli cell tumor / Hipoplasia dupla de medula óssea em um cão com tumor de células de sertoli

A 20-year-old unneutered male poodle presented prostration, apathy, staggering gait, lack of appetite and tick infestation. The dog was diagnosed with a Sertoli cell tumor in an undescended testicle by cytological, histopathological and immunohistochemical tests. Pancytopenia with moderate nonregenerative anemia, leukopenia and severe thrombocytopenia were detected in the complete blood count. Cytological and histopathological evaluation of the bone marrow revealed a cellularity of 30%, with erythroid (59%), lymphoid (40%) and mast cells (1%), and an absence of granulocytic, monocytic and megakaryocytic lineage cells. In post-mortem examinations, changes related to hemostatic disorders were found. The absence of microorganisms in molecular tests and an estrogen serum concentration over reference values confirmed hyperestrogenism as a possible cause of pancytopenia. The literature describes a Sertoli cell tumor hyperestrogenism that induced pancytopenia, along with bone marrow hypoplasia of all hematopoietic lineages. In contrast, in the present case, the erythroid precursor cells were preserved in the bone marrow, although there were no reticulocytes circulating in the blood. This case, therefore, should be considered in future investigations of pancytopenia induced by Sertoli cell tumor hyperestrogenism.(AU)

Um cão Poodle, macho, de 20 anos, não castrado, apresentou prostração, apatia, andar cambaleante, falta de apetite e infestação por carrapatos. Nesse animal, foi diagnosticado tumor de células de Sertoli em um testículo não descendente, utilizando-se citologia, histopatologia e imuno-histoquímica. Pancitopenia com anemia moderada não regenerativa, leucopenia e trombocitopenia intensas foram detectadas no hemograma. Na avaliação citológica e histopatológica da medula óssea, havia celularidade de 30%, constituída pelas linhagens eritroide (59%) e linfoide (40%) e por mastócitos (1%), com ausência de células das linhagens granulocítica, monocítica e megacariocítica. Em exames post mortem, mudanças relacionadas à hemostasia foram encontradas. A ausência de micro-organismos nos testes moleculares e a concentração sérica de estrogênio acima dos valores de referência confirmaram hiperestrogenismo como a possível causa da pancitopenia. A literatura descreve hiperestrogenismo em tumores de células de Sertoli induzindo pancitopenia associada com hipoplasia da medula óssea de todas as linhagens hematopoiéticas. Em contraste, no presente caso, as células precursoras eritróides estavam preservadas na medula óssea, embora não houvesse reticulócitos no sangue. Assim, o relato apresentado deve ser considerado em futuras investigações de pancitopenia induzida por hiperestrogenismo em tumor de células de Sertoli.(AU)

Proposal of a Standard for the Condemnation for Turkey Carcasses Due to Fowlpox

This study aimed at proposing a new technical criteria for condemnation of turkey carcasses due to fowlpox in turkeys as a contribution for the work of the Brazilian Federal Meat Inspection Service. Skin samples from 30 carcasses of a flock of 840 turkeys (Meleagris gallopavo), previously vaccinated for fowlpox and slaughtered in June 2013, were collected. Samples were submitted to histological examination under light microscopy. The virus was identified using standard PCR techniques. The main histological findings were hyperplasia and hydropic degeneration of the epithelium and the presence of intracytoplasmic eosinophilic inclusion bodies. PCR results yielded 83.3% positive and 16.7% negative samples. Fowlpox virus is species specific, and there are no reports of its occurrence in mammals. The macroscopic and microscopic findings of the skin lesions do not justify the total condemnation of carcasses of poultry affected with fowlpox, except in cases of cachexia or repulsive appearance, as established by SIF regulation.

Proposal of a Standard for the Condemnation for Turkey Carcasses Due to Fowlpox

This study aimed at proposing a new technical criteria for condemnation of turkey carcasses due to fowlpox in turkeys as a contribution for the work of the Brazilian Federal Meat Inspection Service. Skin samples from 30 carcasses of a flock of 840 turkeys (Meleagris gallopavo), previously vaccinated for fowlpox and slaughtered in June 2013, were collected. Samples were submitted to histological examination under light microscopy. The virus was identified using standard PCR techniques. The main histological findings were hyperplasia and hydropic degeneration of the epithelium and the presence of intracytoplasmic eosinophilic inclusion bodies. PCR results yielded 83.3% positive and 16.7% negative samples. Fowlpox virus is species specific, and there are no reports of its occurrence in mammals. The macroscopic and microscopic findings of the skin lesions do not justify the total condemnation of carcasses of poultry affected with fowlpox, except in cases of cachexia or repulsive appearance, as established by SIF regulation. (AU)

Pathological, immunohistochemical, and molecular findings in commercial laying hens and in backyard chickens naturally infected with the infectious laryngotracheitis virus

Seventy-eight chickens from a very high poultry density (approximately eight million) region and twelve backyard chickens from neighboring areas were analyzed by histopathology and additional techniques for the presence of the infectious laryngotracheitis virus. The virus distribution was determined in different tissues using immunohistochemistry (IHC) and polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The disease was histopathologically diagnosed in 41.0% (32/78) of the commercial layers. Lesions were mainly characterized by syncytial cells with eosinophilic intranuclear inclusion body formed from the hyperplastic epithelium of the upper respiratory tract, primary and secondary bronchi, and conjunctiva. IHC showed 70% (21/30) positive signal in the larynx/trachea and, 53.8% (14/26) in the lungs, either in epithelial cells or syncytia. In the turbinates and paranasal sinuses, 29.6% (8/27) of samples showed positive signal. PCR detected the following gallid herpesvirus 1-positive percentages: conjunctiva 63.2% (31/49), lungs 57.6% (30/52), turbinates and paranasal sinuses 56% (28/50), and larynx/trachea 50% (39/78). IHC showed to be a useful additional tool for definitive ILT diagnosis, especially during the subacute phase of the disease when syncytial cells with intranuclear inclusion bodies are no longer observed. PCR using specific primers from ICP4 gene, generating a product of 237 base pairs, was sensitive for ILT diagnosis, and very useful for rapid detection of GaHV-1 in chickens. Fixed tissues allowing histopatological examination and detection of GaHV-1 by PCR, are a good option in areas where farms are located several hundred kilometers away from a diagnostic center, reducing problems with conservation of fresh samples and the risk of virus spread.

Pathological, immunohistochemical, and molecular findings in commercial laying hens and in backyard chickens naturally infected with the infectious laryngotracheitis virus

Seventy-eight chickens from a very high poultry density (approximately eight million) region and twelve backyard chickens from neighboring areas were analyzed by histopathology and additional techniques for the presence of the infectious laryngotracheitis virus. The virus distribution was determined in different tissues using immunohistochemistry (IHC) and polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The disease was histopathologically diagnosed in 41.0% (32/78) of the commercial layers. Lesions were mainly characterized by syncytial cells with eosinophilic intranuclear inclusion body formed from the hyperplastic epithelium of the upper respiratory tract, primary and secondary bronchi, and conjunctiva. IHC showed 70% (21/30) positive signal in the larynx/trachea and, 53.8% (14/26) in the lungs, either in epithelial cells or syncytia. In the turbinates and paranasal sinuses, 29.6% (8/27) of samples showed positive signal. PCR detected the following gallid herpesvirus 1-positive percentages: conjunctiva 63.2% (31/49), lungs 57.6% (30/52), turbinates and paranasal sinuses 56% (28/50), and larynx/trachea 50% (39/78). IHC showed to be a useful additional tool for definitive ILT diagnosis, especially during the subacute phase of the disease when syncytial cells with intranuclear inclusion bodies are no longer observed. PCR using specific primers from ICP4 gene, generating a product of 237 base pairs, was sensitive for ILT diagnosis, and very useful for rapid detection of GaHV-1 in chickens. Fixed tissues allowing histopatological examination and detection of GaHV-1 by PCR, are a good option in areas where farms are located several hundred kilometers away from a diagnostic center, reducing problems with conservation of fresh samples and the risk of virus spread.

Pathological, immunohistochemical, and molecular findings in commercial laying hens and in backyard chickens naturally infected with the infectious laryngotracheitis virus

Seventy-eight chickens from a very high poultry density (approximately eight million) region and twelve backyard chickens from neighboring areas were analyzed by histopathology and additional techniques for the presence of the infectious laryngotracheitis virus. The virus distribution was determined in different tissues using immunohistochemistry (IHC) and polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The disease was histopathologically diagnosed in 41.0% (32/78) of the commercial layers. Lesions were mainly characterized by syncytial cells with eosinophilic intranuclear inclusion body formed from the hyperplastic epithelium of the upper respiratory tract, primary and secondary bronchi, and conjunctiva. IHC showed 70% (21/30) positive signal in the larynx/trachea and, 53.8% (14/26) in the lungs, either in epithelial cells or syncytia. In the turbinates and paranasal sinuses, 29.6% (8/27) of samples showed positive signal. PCR detected the following gallid herpesvirus 1-positive percentages: conjunctiva 63.2% (31/49), lungs 57.6% (30/52), turbinates and paranasal sinuses 56% (28/50), and larynx/trachea 50% (39/78). IHC showed to be a useful additional tool for definitive ILT diagnosis, especially during the subacute phase of the disease when syncytial cells with intranuclear inclusion bodies are no longer observed. PCR using specific primers from ICP4 gene, generating a product of 237 base pairs, was sensitive for ILT diagnosis, and very useful for rapid detection of GaHV-1 in chickens. Fixed tissues allowing histopatological examination and detection of GaHV-1 by PCR, are a good option in areas where farms are located several hundred kilometers away from a diagnostic center, reducing problems with conservation of fresh samples and the risk of virus spread.

Pathological, immunohistochemical, and molecular findings in commercial laying hens and in backyard chickens naturally infected with the infectious laryngotracheitis virus

Seventy-eight chickens from a very high poultry density (approximately eight million) region and twelve backyard chickens from neighboring areas were analyzed by histopathology and additional techniques for the presence of the infectious laryngotracheitis virus. The virus distribution was determined in different tissues using immunohistochemistry (IHC) and polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The disease was histopathologically diagnosed in 41.0% (32/78) of the commercial layers. Lesions were mainly characterized by syncytial cells with eosinophilic intranuclear inclusion body formed from the hyperplastic epithelium of the upper respiratory tract, primary and secondary bronchi, and conjunctiva. IHC showed 70% (21/30) positive signal in the larynx/trachea and, 53.8% (14/26) in the lungs, either in epithelial cells or syncytia. In the turbinates and paranasal sinuses, 29.6% (8/27) of samples showed positive signal. PCR detected the following gallid herpesvirus 1-positive percentages: conjunctiva 63.2% (31/49), lungs 57.6% (30/52), turbinates and paranasal sinuses 56% (28/50), and larynx/trachea 50% (39/78). IHC showed to be a useful additional tool for definitive ILT diagnosis, especially during the subacute phase of the disease when syncytial cells with intranuclear inclusion bodies are no longer observed. PCR using specific primers from ICP4 gene, generating a product of 237 base pairs, was sensitive for ILT diagnosis, and very useful for rapid detection of GaHV-1 in chickens. Fixed tissues allowing histopatological examination and detection of GaHV-1 by PCR, are a good option in areas where farms are located several hundred kilometers away from a diagnostic center, reducing problems with conservation of fresh samples and the risk of virus spread.

Pathological, immunohistochemical, and molecular findings in commercial laying hens and in backyard chickens naturally infected with the infectious laryngotracheitis virus

Seventy-eight chickens from a very high poultry density (approximately eight million) region and twelve backyard chickens from neighboring areas were analyzed by histopathology and additional techniques for the presence of the infectious laryngotracheitis virus. The virus distribution was determined in different tissues using immunohistochemistry (IHC) and polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The disease was histopathologically diagnosed in 41.0% (32/78) of the commercial layers. Lesions were mainly characterized by syncytial cells with eosinophilic intranuclear inclusion body formed from the hyperplastic epithelium of the upper respiratory tract, primary and secondary bronchi, and conjunctiva. IHC showed 70% (21/30) positive signal in the larynx/trachea and, 53.8% (14/26) in the lungs, either in epithelial cells or syncytia. In the turbinates and paranasal sinuses, 29.6% (8/27) of samples showed positive signal. PCR detected the following gallid herpesvirus 1-positive percentages: conjunctiva 63.2% (31/49), lungs 57.6% (30/52), turbinates and paranasal sinuses 56% (28/50), and larynx/trachea 50% (39/78). IHC showed to be a useful additional tool for definitive ILT diagnosis, especially during the subacute phase of the disease when syncytial cells with intranuclear inclusion bodies are no longer observed. PCR using specific primers from ICP4 gene, generating a product of 237 base pairs, was sensitive for ILT diagnosis, and very useful for rapid detection of GaHV-1 in chickens. Fixed tissues allowing histopatological examination and detection of GaHV-1 by PCR, are a good option in areas where farms are located several hundred kilometers away from a diagnostic center, reducing problems with conservation of fresh samples and the risk of virus spread.

Pathological, immunohistochemical, and molecular findings in commercial laying hens and in backyard chickens naturally infected with the infectious laryngotracheitis virus

Seventy-eight chickens from a very high poultry density (approximately eight million) region and twelve backyard chickens from neighboring areas were analyzed by histopathology and additional techniques for the presence of the infectious laryngotracheitis virus. The virus distribution was determined in different tissues using immunohistochemistry (IHC) and polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The disease was histopathologically diagnosed in 41.0% (32/78) of the commercial layers. Lesions were mainly characterized by syncytial cells with eosinophilic intranuclear inclusion body formed from the hyperplastic epithelium of the upper respiratory tract, primary and secondary bronchi, and conjunctiva. IHC showed 70% (21/30) positive signal in the larynx/trachea and, 53.8% (14/26) in the lungs, either in epithelial cells or syncytia. In the turbinates and paranasal sinuses, 29.6% (8/27) of samples showed positive signal. PCR detected the following gallid herpesvirus 1-positive percentages: conjunctiva 63.2% (31/49), lungs 57.6% (30/52), turbinates and paranasal sinuses 56% (28/50), and larynx/trachea 50% (39/78). IHC showed to be a useful additional tool for definitive ILT diagnosis, especially during the subacute phase of the disease when syncytial cells with intranuclear inclusion bodies are no longer observed. PCR using specific primers from ICP4 gene, generating a product of 237 base pairs, was sensitive for ILT diagnosis, and very useful for rapid detection of GaHV-1 in chickens. Fixed tissues allowing histopatological examination and detection of GaHV-1 by PCR, are a good option in areas where farms are located several hundred kilometers away from a diagnostic center, reducing problems with conservation of fresh samples and the risk of virus spread.(AU)

Suplementação de colina em dietas para frangos de corte machos em fase de crescimento / Choline supplementation in diets for male broilers in the growing phase

Avaliaram-se os efeitos dos níveis de suplementação de colina em dietas para frangos de corte, de 22 a 40 dias de idade, sobre o desempenho, a composição de carcaças e fígados, bem como as características macroscópicas e histopatológicas dos fígados. O período de criação foi de um a 40 dias de idade, sendo que o período experimental foi de 22 a 40 dias de idade. Até o 21º dia de idade, todas as aves receberam a mesma ração à qual foram adicionados 400mg colina/kg. No 22º dia, os frangos foram distribuídos em cinco tratamentos, nos quais os níveis testados de suplementação de colina foram: zero, 400, 800, 1.200 e 1.600mg/kg, com seis repetições de 30 aves cada. As rações experimentais, formuladas à base de milho, farelo de soja e farinha de carne/ossos, foram isonutritivas, com exceção dos níveis de colina. O delineamento experimental foi o inteiramente ao acaso, e a estimativa da suplementação de colina foi avaliada pelos modelos de regressão. Os níveis de suplementação de colina apresentaram efeito linear pelo teste F (P<0,05) para o consumo de ração. Os demais parâmetros avaliados não sofreram influência da suplementação (P>0,05). O nível de 1.600mg colina/kg de ração resulta em maior consumo de ração de frangos de corte aos 40 dias de idade.(AU)

The effects of choline supplemental levels were evaluated in diets for broilers on performance, carcass and liver composition and liver histopathology characteristics from 22 to 40 days-old. The period of creation was one to 40 days of age, and the experimental period was 22 to 40 days-old. Until 21 days of age all birds received the same diet added to 400mg choline/kg. On day 22, broilers were allotted to five treatments (zero, 400, 800, 1200 and 1600 mg/kg), with six repetitions of 30 birds each. The experimental diets formulated based on corn, soybean meal and meat/bones meal were isonutritive, except for the choline levels. The experimental design was completely randomized and the estimation of choline supplementation was evaluated by regression models. The levels of choline supplementation showed a significant linear effect for the F test (P<0.05) for feed intake. The other evaluated parameters were not influenced by supplementation (P>0.05). The supplementation of 1600mg choline/kg in the diet results in higher feed intake of broilers at 40 days old.(AU)

Efeitos da suplementação de colina sobre o desempenho de poedeiras comerciais / The effects of choline supplementation on the performance of laying hens

Os efeitos da suplementação de colina em dietas para poedeiras (Dekalb White) foram avaliados nas fases de cria/recria e de postura. O delineamento foi em esquema fatorial 2x5 (duas suplementações de colina de uma a 16 semanas de idade x cinco níveis de colina suplementada de 18 a 44 semanas de idade). Os níveis de colina utilizados foram 0, 200, 400, 600 e 800mg/kg para cada grupo. A suplementação de colina em frangas com uma a 16 semanas de idade não afeta o desempenho nem as características macroscópicas e histopatológicas dos fígados durante essa fase. Os efeitos dos níveis de suplementação de colina sobre o desempenho das galinhas na fase de postura dependem da suplementação ou não dessa vitamina nas fases de cria/recria; ou seja, as aves que recebem suplemento de colina nessas fases apresentam maior exigência no período de postura.(AU)

The effects of choline supplementation in diets for laying hens (Dekalb White) were evaluated from 1 to 44 weeks-old. The experimental design was a 2x5 factorial arrangement (two choline supplementations from one to 16 weeks of age - with and without choline supplementation vs. five levels of choline supplementation from 18 to 44 weeks old. The choline level used in the diet for each group was 0, 200, 400, 600 and 800mg/kg). Choline supplementation used in birds with 1 to 16 weeks of age does not affect the performance of pullets and no gross and histological changes were observed in the liver during this phase. The effects of the choline supplementation levels in the laying phase on the hens' performance depend on the supplementation with this vitamin from 1 to 16 weeks old. The results of the experiment showed that birds reared for laying need a higher level of choline supplementation from 1 to 16 weeks old or birds reared for laying receiving higher levels of choline supplementation during 1 to 16 weeks old will need a higher level of choline supplementation in the laying phase.(AU)