Water intake and feeding with whole milk accentuate metabolic acidosis in calves with induced osmotic diarrhea / Ingestão de água e alimentação com leite integral acentuam a acidose metabólica em bezerros com diarreia osmótica induzida

Sucrose- and diuretics-based protocols are widely used to induce osmotic diarrhea and dehydration in calves, but they fail to cause metabolic acidosis. In previous studies, calves were fed milk replacers and deprived of water. In this study, we assessed the water, electrolyte, and acid-base imbalances in calves that were fed whole milk and were not completely deprived of water during the induction period. Healthy, male Holstein calves aged 10-12 days were assigned to two groups: free access to water (FWG; n=17) and water deprivation at night (DWG; n=21); and osmotic diarrhea was induced with sucrose added to milk, spironolactone (2mg kg-1) and hydrochlorothiazide (2mg kg-1) orally every 8h for 48h. pH, pCO2, HCO3-, BE, Na+, K+, Cl-, SID3, TPP, AG, Atot, glucose, L-lactate, D-lactate, SIG, and percentage change in plasma volume were measured in venous blood samples taken at 0, 24, and 48h. Data were analyzed using two-way repeated measures ANOVA. Calves showed diarrhea, mild (FWG) to moderate (DWG) dehydration, hyponatremia, and moderate (FWG) to severe (DWG) metabolic acidosis. AG and D-lactate levels were higher and SIG was lower in the DWG, and there was no hyper-L- or D-lactatemia. The magnitude of metabolic acidosis was similar to that observed in natural cases of diarrhea. The protocol for inducing osmotic diarrhea and dehydration should be applied to calves that are fed whole milk and are not completely deprived of water.

Protocolos baseados em sacarose e diuréticos são amplamente usados para induzir diarreia osmótica e desidratação em bezerros, porém não provocam acidose metabólica. Em estudos anteriores, os bezerros foram alimentados com substitutos de leite e privados de água. Neste estudo, avaliaram-se os desequilíbrios hídrico, eletrolítico e ácido base em bezerros que foram alimentados com leite integral e não foram completamente privados de água durante o período de indução. Bezerros HPB machos sadios com 10 a 12 dias de idade foram distribuídos por dois grupos: acesso livre à água (FWG; n=17) e privação de água durante a noite (DWG; n=21); e a diarreia osmótica foi induzida com sacarose adicionada ao leite, espironolactona (2mg kg-1) e hidroclorotiazida (2mg kg-1) por via oral a cada 8h durante 48h. pH, pCO2, HCO3-, BE, Na+, K+, Cl-, SID3, PPT, AG, Atot, glicose, lactato L, lactato D, SIG e alteração percentual no volume plasmático foram medidos em amostras de sangue venoso colhidas em 0, 24 e 48h. Os dados foram analisados usando ANOVA de medidas repetidas bifatorial. Os bezerros apresentaram diarreia, desidratação leve (FWG) a moderada (DWG), hiponatremia e acidose metabólica moderada (FWG) a grave (DWG). Os valores de AG e de lactato D foram maiores e o de SIG foi menor no DWG, e não houve hiperlactatemia L ou D. A magnitude da acidose metabólica foi semelhante à observada em casos naturais de diarreia. O protocolo para induzir diarreia osmótica e desidratação deve ser aplicado a bezerros alimentados com leite integral e não totalmente privados de água.

Acute intoxication with single oral dose of ochratoxin A (OTA) causes leukopenia, heteropenia, lymphopenia and lymphoid depletion in the bursa of Fabricius in broiler chicks / Intoxicação aguda com dose oral única de ocratoxina A (OTA) causa leucopenia, heteropenia, linfopenia e depleção linfoide na bolsa de Fabricius em pintainhos de corte

Ochratoxin A (OTA) is a mycotoxin produced by species of Penicillium and Aspergillus, agricultural product contaminants. Chronic and sub-chronic OTA intoxication by chickens ingesting contaminated feed, leads to health damages due to its hepatotoxic, nephrotoxic, cytotoxic, immunotoxic, gastrotoxic, and possibly carcinogenic effects. As there are few data on acute intoxication, the present study evaluated the effects of a single acute OTA intoxication dose on immunological and hematological parameters in chicks. Sixteen one-day-old chicks were used, separated into two groups (n=8). A single dose of OTA (1400 µg kg-1 body weight) was administered, via gavage, for the OTA group and one dose of sterile PBS for the control group. On the 13th day, blood samples were collected to assess hematological and biochemical parameters, and on the 14th day, euthanasia and collection of lymphoid organs were performed. The animals of the OTA group demonstrated a significant decrease in total circulating leukocytes (p<0.001) with heteropenia (p<0.001) and lymphopenia (p=0.023), decrease hematocrit (p=0.020), hemoglobin (p=0.032), and plasma IgA (p =0.044), and increased plasma uric acid level (p=0.045), in relation to the control group. In addition, the animals intoxicated with OTA showed depletion of lymphoid cells in the bursa of Fabricius (p=0.016), but not in the thymus or spleen (p>0.05), compared to the control. For the other parameters: total plasma proteins, plasma IgY levels, and anti-Newcastle Disease Virus (NDV) vaccine titers from matrices, there were no significant differences between the analyzed groups (p>0.05), although there was a worsening tendency in contaminated animals. In conclusion, even a single acute OTA intoxication at a high dose, leads to the suppression of the systemic immune response, also affecting some hematological or biochemical parameters in chicks.

Ocratoxina A (OTA) é uma micotoxina produzida por espécies de Penicillium e Aspergillus, contaminantes de produtos agrícolas. Intoxicação crônica e subcrônica por OTA em frangos que ingerem ração contaminada, levam à danos à saúde devido aos seus efeitos hepatotóxicos, nefrotóxicos, citotóxicos, imunotóxicos, gastrotóxicos e possivelmente carcinogênicos. Como há poucos dados sobre intoxicação aguda, o presente estudo avaliou os efeitos de uma dose única de intoxicação aguda por OTA sobre parâmetros imunológicos e hematológicos em pintainhos. Foram utilizados 16 pintainhos de um dia de idade, separados em dois grupos (n=8). Uma dose única de OTA (1400 µg kg-1 de peso corporal) foi administrada, via gavagem, para o grupo OTA e uma dose de PBS estéril para o grupo controle. No 13º dia foram coletadas amostras de sangue para avaliação dos parâmetros hematológicos e bioquímicos, e no 14º dia foi realizada a eutanásia e coleta de órgãos linfoides. Os animais do grupo OTA demonstraram diminuição significativa do total de leucócitos circulantes (p<0,001) com heteropenia (p<0,001) e linfopenia (p=0,023), diminuição do hematócrito (p=0,020), hemoglobina (p=0,032) e IgA plasmática (p=0,044) e aumento do nível plasmático de ácido úrico (p=0,045), em relação ao grupo controle. Além disso, os animais intoxicados com OTA apresentaram depleção de células linfóides na bolsa de Fabricius (p=0,016), mas não no timo ou baço (p>0,05), em relação ao controle. Para os demais parâmetros: proteínas totais do plasma, níveis plasmáticos de IgY e títulos de vacinas contra o Vírus da Doença de Newcastle (NDV) das matrizes, não houve diferenças significativas entre os grupos analisados (p>0,05), embora tenha havido uma tendência de piora nos animais contaminados. Em conclusão, mesmo uma intoxicação única aguda por OTA em alta dose, leva à supressão da resposta imune sistêmica, afetando também alguns parâmetros hematológicos ou bioquímicos em pintainhos.

Meningomielite eosinofílica provavelmente associada à toxoplasmose em um gato / Eosinophilic meningomyelitis probably associated with toxoplasmosis in a cat

Background: The cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of healthy cats presents up to 5 cells/µL, with predominance of mononuclear cells and the presence of more than 1% eosinophils is rare and should always be considered an abnormal finding. There is no consensus on the term eosinophilic pleocytosis, as it is used to indicate the presence of more than 10 eosinophils/µL or more than 10% of the total leukocytes. The increase in eosinophils in the CSF may result from infectious, inflammatory, neoplastic and idiopathic diseases. The objective of this paper is to report a case of marked pleocytosis in CSF, with 84% eosinophils, probably due to toxoplasmosis, in a cat with paraparesis and diffuse spinal pain. Case: A mixed breed female cat, neutered, adult and domiciled in a rural area was presented due to gait abnormalities in the pelvic limbs that started one day before presentation. The general physical examination was unremarkable. On neurological examination it was observed asymmetric deficit of postural reactions in pelvic limbs, patellar reflex normal to increased and pain elicited on palpation of the thoracic and lumbar spine. Based on these findings, the neurological syndrome was classified as thoracolumbar, but with diffuse pain, and the main differential diagnoses were inflammatory/ infectious and neoplastic diseases. The leukogram showed eosinophilia and the serum biochemistry showed no significant changes. Serological assays for feline immunodeficiency virus and feline leukemia virus were negative. Analysis of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) identified marked pleocytosis with 84% eosinophils and increase in protein concentration. Myelography showed no compressive or expansive changes. Fungal culture for CSF cryptococcosis was negative. Serum immunofluorescence antibody titer for Toxoplasma gondii (IgG) was 1:256. There was a marked improvement after treatment with sulfametoxazole/trimethoprim and pyrimethamine and after 3 weeks of treatment, there was almost complete recovery of neurological signs and after 9 months the cat was neurologically normal. Discussion: The most common causes of acute-onset thoracolumbar spinal cord syndrome in cats, with diffuse pain on spinal palpation, are meningomyelitis of inflammatory/infectious origin, such as feline infectious peritonitis (FIP) and neoplasms such as lymphoma. Other meningomyelitis of inflammatory origin, such as infectious and immune-mediated meningomyelitis of unknown origin are considered uncommon in cats. Although the clinical, systemic and neurological signs of FIP and toxoplasmosis may have similarities, in the present case FIP was not considered responsible for the observed signs, as the evolution of the case and the analysis of the CSF tend to be different. The peripheral eosinophilia, the cytological analysis of the CSF, characterized by marked eosinophilic pleocytosis, associated with a positive titer for toxoplasmosis, good response to treatment and improvement in the neurological condition, with survival for more than 9 months after treatment, rules out the possibility of FIP. Neurological signs observed in the absence of systemic signs are more common in cases of protozoan reactivation, which probably occurred in the present case. The possibility of toxoplasmosis in the patient in this report was reinforced by the fact that the animal came from a rural area. Eosinophilia of CSF is most commonly associated with parasitic infections, although it can be caused by a variety of infectious agents, but in the cat of the present report, the marked eosinophilic pleocytosis was likely due to toxoplasmosis, which is a rare occurrence in this specie. In conclusion, toxoplasmosis should be considered in the differential diagnosis of focal spinal cord lesions in cats. The identification of laboratory findings as well as the appropriate therapy favored the good evolution of the condition.

Iatrogenic alkalosis in goats with the use of intravenous electrolyte solution containing 84 mEq/L of lactate / Alcalose iatrogênica em cabras após infusão intravenosa de solução eletrolítica contendo 84 mEq/L de lactato

This study investigated the alkalinizing potential of an intravenous polyionic solution containing 84 mEq/L of lactate on hydroelectrolyte and acid-base balances in healthy goats.Four solutions, containing 28 and 84 mEq/L of lactate (L28 and L84) or bicarbonate (B28 and B84), were formulated. Six healthy Saanen goats were used. All four solutions were infused intravenously in each animal, one at a time, with an interval of 4–5 days between the infusions, at a speed of 33.3 mL/kg/h and totaling a volume equivalent to 10% of their body weight, in 3 h of continuous administration. Samples of venous blood and urine were collected at 0h (start of the infusion), 1.5h (middle of the infusion), 3h (end of the infusion), and 4.5h, 6h, and 24 h from the start of the infusion. The laboratory tests included determination of blood pH, pCO2, HCO3-, base excess (BE), Na+, K+, Cl-, total plasmatic protein, L-lactate, and creatinine. In urine samples, pH, Na+, K+, Cl-, L-lactate, and creatinine were measured. The L28 solution, equivalent to lactated Ringer's solution, caused a slight increase in the alkaline reserve and did not change the electrolyte balance. The L84 solution resulted in a greater increase in the alkaline reserve, equivalent to the B84 solution, with return to baseline values within 24 h from the start of the infusion.The L84 solution proved to be safe and produced iatrogenic alkalization when infused into healthy goats, without causing side effects.

O objetivo deste trabalho foi investigar o potencial alcalinizante de uma solução poli-iônica intravenosa contendo 84mEq/L de lactato no equilíbrio hidroeletrolítico e ácido base de cabras saudáveis. Quatro soluções contendo 28 e 84 mEq/L de lactato (L28 e L84) ou bicarbonato (B28 e B84) foram formuladas. Seis cabras, adultas, da raça Saanen, saudáveis receberam as quatro soluções por via intravenosa, uma de cada vez, com intervalo de quatro a cinco dias entre as infusões, a velocidade de 33,3 ml/kg/h, totalizando um volume equivalente a 10% do seu peso corporal, em três horas de administração contínua. Foram coletadas amostras de sangue venoso e urina antes do início da infusão (0h), na metade (1,5h), no fim (3h) e às 4,5h, 6h e 24h após o início da infusão. Os exames laboratoriais consistiram na determinação do pH sanguíneo, pCO2, HCO3-, BE, Na+, K+, Cl-, proteína plasmática total, lactato L e creatinina. Nas amostras de urina foram medidos o pH, Na+, K+, Cl-, lactato L e creatinina. A solução L28, equivalente à solução de Ringer com lactato, causou um aumento leve na reserva alcalina e não alterou o equilíbrio eletrolítico. A solução L84 resultou em maior aumento da reserva alcalina, equivalente à solução B84, com retorno dos parâmetros avaliados aos valores basais em até 24 horas após o início da infusão. A solução L84 provou-se segura e produziu alcalose iatrogência em cabras sadias, sem causar qualquer efeito colateral.

Iatrogenic alkalosis in goats with the use of intravenous electrolyte solution containing 84 mEq/L of lactate / Alcalose iatrogênica em cabras após infusão intravenosa de solução eletrolítica contendo 84 mEq/L de lactato

This study investigated the alkalinizing potential of an intravenous polyionic solution containing 84 mEq/L of lactate on hydroelectrolyte and acid-base balances in healthy goats.Four solutions, containing 28 and 84 mEq/L of lactate (L28 and L84) or bicarbonate (B28 and B84), were formulated. Six healthy Saanen goats were used. All four solutions were infused intravenously in each animal, one at a time, with an interval of 4–5 days between the infusions, at a speed of 33.3 mL/kg/h and totaling a volume equivalent to 10% of their body weight, in 3 h of continuous administration. Samples of venous blood and urine were collected at 0h (start of the infusion), 1.5h (middle of the infusion), 3h (end of the infusion), and 4.5h, 6h, and 24 h from the start of the infusion. The laboratory tests included determination of blood pH, pCO2, HCO3-, base excess (BE), Na+, K+, Cl-, total plasmatic protein, L-lactate, and creatinine. In urine samples, pH, Na+, K+, Cl-, L-lactate, and creatinine were measured. The L28 solution, equivalent to lactated Ringer's solution, caused a slight increase in the alkaline reserve and did not change the electrolyte balance. The L84 solution resulted in a greater increase in the alkaline reserve, equivalent to the B84 solution, with return to baseline values within 24 h from the start of the infusion.The L84 solution proved to be safe and produced iatrogenic alkalization when infused into healthy goats, without causing side effects.(AU)

O objetivo deste trabalho foi investigar o potencial alcalinizante de uma solução poli-iônica intravenosa contendo 84mEq/L de lactato no equilíbrio hidroeletrolítico e ácido base de cabras saudáveis. Quatro soluções contendo 28 e 84 mEq/L de lactato (L28 e L84) ou bicarbonato (B28 e B84) foram formuladas. Seis cabras, adultas, da raça Saanen, saudáveis receberam as quatro soluções por via intravenosa, uma de cada vez, com intervalo de quatro a cinco dias entre as infusões, a velocidade de 33,3 ml/kg/h, totalizando um volume equivalente a 10% do seu peso corporal, em três horas de administração contínua. Foram coletadas amostras de sangue venoso e urina antes do início da infusão (0h), na metade (1,5h), no fim (3h) e às 4,5h, 6h e 24h após o início da infusão. Os exames laboratoriais consistiram na determinação do pH sanguíneo, pCO2, HCO3-, BE, Na+, K+, Cl-, proteína plasmática total, lactato L e creatinina. Nas amostras de urina foram medidos o pH, Na+, K+, Cl-, lactato L e creatinina. A solução L28, equivalente à solução de Ringer com lactato, causou um aumento leve na reserva alcalina e não alterou o equilíbrio eletrolítico. A solução L84 resultou em maior aumento da reserva alcalina, equivalente à solução B84, com retorno dos parâmetros avaliados aos valores basais em até 24 horas após o início da infusão. A solução L84 provou-se segura e produziu alcalose iatrogência em cabras sadias, sem causar qualquer efeito colateral.(AU)

Análise do líquido cérebro-espinhal em cães e gatos com afecções neurológicas / Cerebrospinal fluid analysis in dogs and cats with neurological diseases

Background: Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis is of great importance for evaluation of patients with central nervoussystem problems, because it helps to confirm or exclude many diseases when evaluated together with other relevant clinical and ancillary laboratory tests. As there are few studies in Brazil describing results of CSF analysis in dogs and cats,the objective of the present study was to evaluate results of CSF analysis in a period of ten years, grouping the changesobserved, mainly total and differential cell count and total protein concentration, according to the following etiologicalcategories of diseases: inflammatory, degenerative, traumatic, neoplastic and vascular disorders.Materials, Methods & Results: Medical records of dogs and cats with neurological diseases that had CSF collected andanalyzed at a Veterinary Teaching Hospital between 2008 and 2017 were retrospectively reviewed. Patient data includedbreed, sex, body weight, age at presentation, findings of clinical and neurological examination, results of CSF analysis,diagnostic imaging and other laboratory tests results including PCR and serologies for infectious diseases. A total of 245CSF exams were studied (240 dogs and five cats). The established normal range for protein concentration was less than25 mg/dL for cisternal collection and less than 45 mg/dL for lumbar puncture. Total nucleated cell count was considerednormal when less than 5 cells/µL, with a predominance of mononuclear cells. Both pleocytosis and increased concentrationof the protein level were classified as discrete, moderate and marked, and the pleocytosis was further classified as mononuclear, neutrophilic and mixed cell pleocytosis. The information obtained was analyzed in relation to the neurologicalsyndromes and etiological categories of neurological...

Análise do líquido cérebro-espinhal em cães e gatos com afecções neurológicas / Cerebrospinal fluid analysis in dogs and cats with neurological diseases

Background: Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis is of great importance for evaluation of patients with central nervoussystem problems, because it helps to confirm or exclude many diseases when evaluated together with other relevant clinical and ancillary laboratory tests. As there are few studies in Brazil describing results of CSF analysis in dogs and cats,the objective of the present study was to evaluate results of CSF analysis in a period of ten years, grouping the changesobserved, mainly total and differential cell count and total protein concentration, according to the following etiologicalcategories of diseases: inflammatory, degenerative, traumatic, neoplastic and vascular disorders.Materials, Methods & Results: Medical records of dogs and cats with neurological diseases that had CSF collected andanalyzed at a Veterinary Teaching Hospital between 2008 and 2017 were retrospectively reviewed. Patient data includedbreed, sex, body weight, age at presentation, findings of clinical and neurological examination, results of CSF analysis,diagnostic imaging and other laboratory tests results including PCR and serologies for infectious diseases. A total of 245CSF exams were studied (240 dogs and five cats). The established normal range for protein concentration was less than25 mg/dL for cisternal collection and less than 45 mg/dL for lumbar puncture. Total nucleated cell count was considerednormal when less than 5 cells/µL, with a predominance of mononuclear cells. Both pleocytosis and increased concentrationof the protein level were classified as discrete, moderate and marked, and the pleocytosis was further classified as mononuclear, neutrophilic and mixed cell pleocytosis. The information obtained was analyzed in relation to the neurologicalsyndromes and etiological categories of neurological...(AU)

Hidratação enteral em bezerros neonatos e características das soluções eletrolíticas disponíveis comercialmente no Brasil / Enteral fluid therapy in neonatal calves and features of commercially available electrolyte solutions in Brazil

According to the World Health Organization, the development of orally replacement fluids and electrolytes was one of the most significant advances of the twentieth century, markedly reducing mortality from diarrheal children. In veterinary medicine, oral electrolyte solutions (OES) are routinely used to treat diarrheic neonatal calves in order to correct water, electrolyte and acid base imbalances. In North America, the use of OES is routine and there are at least 20 commercial alternatives. Use of OES has increased in recent years in Brazil, but just five commercial products are currently available. The OES should contain, in suitable concentrations, electrolytes, glucose and an alkalizing agent to ensure its therapeutic efficacy. This review aimed to address the therapeutic importance of OES for neonatal calves and to evaluate the compositions and characteristics of those commercially available in Brazil.

De acordo com a Organização Mundial da Saúde, o desenvolvimento da reposição de fluidos e eletrólitos por via oral foi um dos avanços mais significativos da medicina no século XX, reduzindo marcadamente a mortalidade de crianças diarreicas. Na medicina veterinária, as soluções eletrolíticas orais (SEO) são rotineiramente utilizadas no tratamento de bezerros neonatos diarreicos com o intuito de corrigir os desequilíbrios hidroeletrolíticos e ácido base. Na América do Norte, o emprego de SEO é habitual e existem, pelo menos, 20 alternativas comerciais. O uso das SEO se expandiu nos últimos anos, no Brasil, havendo, atualmente, cinco produtos disponíveis no comércio. As SEO devem veicular eletrólitos, glicose e um agente alcalinizante em concentrações apropriadas para garantir a sua eficácia terapêutica. Essa revisão tem o objetivo de abordar a importância e uso terapêutico das SEO para bezerros neonatos, além de avaliar as composições e características das disponíveis comercialmente no mercado brasileiro.

Hidratação enteral em bezerros neonatos e características das soluções eletrolíticas disponíveis comercialmente no Brasil / Enteral fluid therapy in neonatal calves and features of commercially available electrolyte solutions in Brazil

According to the World Health Organization, the development of orally replacement fluids and electrolytes was one of the most significant advances of the twentieth century, markedly reducing mortality from diarrheal children. In veterinary medicine, oral electrolyte solutions (OES) are routinely used to treat diarrheic neonatal calves in order to correct water, electrolyte and acid base imbalances. In North America, the use of OES is routine and there are at least 20 commercial alternatives. Use of OES has increased in recent years in Brazil, but just five commercial products are currently available. The OES should contain, in suitable concentrations, electrolytes, glucose and an alkalizing agent to ensure its therapeutic efficacy. This review aimed to address the therapeutic importance of OES for neonatal calves and to evaluate the compositions and characteristics of those commercially available in Brazil.(AU)

De acordo com a Organização Mundial da Saúde, o desenvolvimento da reposição de fluidos e eletrólitos por via oral foi um dos avanços mais significativos da medicina no século XX, reduzindo marcadamente a mortalidade de crianças diarreicas. Na medicina veterinária, as soluções eletrolíticas orais (SEO) são rotineiramente utilizadas no tratamento de bezerros neonatos diarreicos com o intuito de corrigir os desequilíbrios hidroeletrolíticos e ácido base. Na América do Norte, o emprego de SEO é habitual e existem, pelo menos, 20 alternativas comerciais. O uso das SEO se expandiu nos últimos anos, no Brasil, havendo, atualmente, cinco produtos disponíveis no comércio. As SEO devem veicular eletrólitos, glicose e um agente alcalinizante em concentrações apropriadas para garantir a sua eficácia terapêutica. Essa revisão tem o objetivo de abordar a importância e uso terapêutico das SEO para bezerros neonatos, além de avaliar as composições e características das disponíveis comercialmente no mercado brasileiro.(AU)

Piometras em cadelas: relação entre o prognóstico clínico e o diagnóstico laboratorial / Pyometra in bitches: relationship between clinical prognosis and laboratory diagnosis

Piometra é uma afecção resultante da interação bacteriana com a hiperplasia cística do endométrio. O objetivo deste estudo foi identificar bactérias em condições de aerobiose e anaerobiose da secreção intrauterina de cadelas com piometra, presença da síndrome da resposta inflamatória sistêmica, status da cérvix, peritonite, dosagens bioquímicas séricas e comparar com o prognóstico de cadelas tratadas cirurgicamente. Utilizaram-se 15 cadelas com piometra, submetidas à ovariohisterectomia. Hemogramas e dosagens séricas de ureia, creatinina, FA e ALT foram realizados no pré-operatório imediato. Coletou-se urina por cistocentese. Após a remoção do útero e ovários, a secreção intrauterina foi aspirada; as amostras foram então cultivadas em aerobiose e anaerobiose, as amostras de urina em aerobiose. Os animais foram divididos em dois grupos, G1 (alta hospitalar em até 48 horas) e G2 (alta hospitalar após 48 horas ou óbito). Onze amostras de conteúdo intrauterino (73,3%) apresentaram crescimento bacteriano em aerobiose e anaerobiose e em uma amostra isolou-se Arizona hinshawii. Quatro amostras de urina (26,6%) tiveram crescimento bacteriano. Houve diferença significativa das variáveis status da cérvix, ureia, creatinina e fosfatase alcalina entre G1 e G2. Embora a diversidade etiológica encontrada nas culturas de conteúdo intrauterino tenha sido alta, a avaliação da azotemia, status da cérvix e dosagem de FA sérica mostraram-se bons marcadores prognósticos em cadelas com piometra.

Pyometra is a disease resulting from bacterial interaction with cystic endometrial hyperplasia. The aim of this study was to identify bacteria under aerobic and anaerobic conditions of intrauterine secretion of bitches with pyometra, Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome, status of the cervix, peritonitis, serum biochemical measurements and to compare the prognosis of surgically treated bitches. We used 15 bitches with pyometra, undergoing ovariohysterectomy. Blood count and dosage of serum biochemicals were performed preoperatively. Urine was collected by cystocentesis during surgery. After the uterus was removed, intrauterine secretion was aspirated; the samples were grown aerobically and anaerobically, and urine aerobically. The animals were divided into two groups, G1 (hospital discharge until 48 hours) and G2 (discharged after 48 hours or death). Eleven samples of intrauterine content (73.3%) had bacterial growth in aerobic and anaerobic conditions, and Arizona hinshawii was isolated in a sample. Four urine samples (26.6%) had bacterial growth. There were significant differences in status of the cervix, urea, creatinine, alkaline phosphatase between G1 and G2. Although the etiology diversity found in intrauterine cultures was high, the evaluation of azotemia, status of the cervix, and serum alkaline phosphatase dosage proved to be good prognostics markers in female dogs with pyometra.

Piometras em cadelas: relação entre o prognóstico clínico e o diagnóstico laboratorial / Pyometra in bitches: relationship between clinical prognosis and laboratory diagnosis

Piometra é uma afecção resultante da interação bacteriana com a hiperplasia cística do endométrio. O objetivo deste estudo foi identificar bactérias em condições de aerobiose e anaerobiose da secreção intrauterina de cadelas com piometra, presença da síndrome da resposta inflamatória sistêmica, status da cérvix, peritonite, dosagens bioquímicas séricas e comparar com o prognóstico de cadelas tratadas cirurgicamente. Utilizaram-se 15 cadelas com piometra, submetidas à ovariohisterectomia. Hemogramas e dosagens séricas de ureia, creatinina, FA e ALT foram realizados no pré-operatório imediato. Coletou-se urina por cistocentese. Após a remoção do útero e ovários, a secreção intrauterina foi aspirada; as amostras foram então cultivadas em aerobiose e anaerobiose, as amostras de urina em aerobiose. Os animais foram divididos em dois grupos, G1 (alta hospitalar em até 48 horas) e G2 (alta hospitalar após 48 horas ou óbito). Onze amostras de conteúdo intrauterino (73,3%) apresentaram crescimento bacteriano em aerobiose e anaerobiose e em uma amostra isolou-se Arizona hinshawii. Quatro amostras de urina (26,6%) tiveram crescimento bacteriano. Houve diferença significativa das variáveis status da cérvix, ureia, creatinina e fosfatase alcalina entre G1 e G2. Embora a diversidade etiológica encontrada nas culturas de conteúdo intrauterino tenha sido alta, a avaliação da azotemia, status da cérvix e dosagem de FA sérica mostraram-se bons marcadores prognósticos em cadelas com piometra.(AU)

Pyometra is a disease resulting from bacterial interaction with cystic endometrial hyperplasia. The aim of this study was to identify bacteria under aerobic and anaerobic conditions of intrauterine secretion of bitches with pyometra, Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome, status of the cervix, peritonitis, serum biochemical measurements and to compare the prognosis of surgically treated bitches. We used 15 bitches with pyometra, undergoing ovariohysterectomy. Blood count and dosage of serum biochemicals were performed preoperatively. Urine was collected by cystocentesis during surgery. After the uterus was removed, intrauterine secretion was aspirated; the samples were grown aerobically and anaerobically, and urine aerobically. The animals were divided into two groups, G1 (hospital discharge until 48 hours) and G2 (discharged after 48 hours or death). Eleven samples of intrauterine content (73.3%) had bacterial growth in aerobic and anaerobic conditions, and Arizona hinshawii was isolated in a sample. Four urine samples (26.6%) had bacterial growth. There were significant differences in status of the cervix, urea, creatinine, alkaline phosphatase between G1 and G2. Although the etiology diversity found in intrauterine cultures was high, the evaluation of azotemia, status of the cervix, and serum alkaline phosphatase dosage proved to be good prognostics markers in female dogs with pyometra.(AU)

The importance of Gram positive bacteria as the cause of canine pyometra / A importância de bactérias Gram positivas como etiologia na piometra canina

E. coli is the main bacteria isolated from infected uterus and bacterial endotoxin can lead to fatal endotoxic shock. Systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) precedes the endotoxic shock. Thus, early recognition of SIRS is important for patient treatment and prognostic. In Brazil, Gram positive bacteria are responsible for approximately 20% of all pyometra cases, and there is limited information about pathophysiology of shock and tissue injury. The aim of this study was to investigate the capacity of Gram positive bacteria to cause SIRS in bitches with pyometra. A prospective follow-up of 67 bitches with pyometra was performed, which were classified as SIRS + and SIRS- on admission. All bitches were surgically treated (ovariohysterectomy), uterine contents were collected in a sterile manner and the material was submitted to microbiological evaluation. Were identified in 55.2% of bitches E. coli (G1), 23.9% other Gram negative bacteria (G2) and 20.9% Gram positive bacteria (G3). The leukocyte profile, serum biochemistry and prevalence of SIRS were similar between the groups. It is concluded that Gram positive bacteria have the capacity to promote tissue damage and can lead the patient to death after SIRS and shock, as well as by E. coli and other Gram negative.(AU)

A Escherichia coli é reportada como principal agente etiológico da piometra canina e as endotoxinas bacterianas podem desencadear choque endotóxico e óbito. A síndrome da resposta inflamatória sistêmica (SIRS) antecede o choque e sua identificação pode predizer o prognóstico do paciente. No Brasil, bactérias Gram positivas são responsáveis por aproximadamente 20% dos casos de piometra, e informações a respeito da fisiopatologia do choque ou da lesão tecidual nesses casos são escassos. Assim, o objetivo foi investigar a capacidade de bactérias Gram positivas desencadear SIRS em cadelas com piometra. Foram acompanhadas de maneira prospectiva 67 cadelas com piometra, que na admissão passaram por exame clínico, exames laboratoriais e foram classificadas como SIRS+ e SIRS-. Todos os animais foram tratados cirurgicamente (ovariohisterectomia), o conteúdo uterino foi coletado de forma estéril e o material foi submetido à avaliação microbiológica. Em 55,2% das cadelas foi identificada E. coli (G1), 23,9% outras bactérias Gram negativas (G2) e 20,9% Gram positivas (G3). O perfil leucocitário, a bioquímica sérica e a prevalência de SIRS foram semelhantes entre os grupos. Conclui-se que bactérias Gram positivas possuem capacidade de promover dano tecidual podendo levar o paciente a óbito após desencadear SIRS e choque, assim como por E. coli e outras Gram negativas.(AU)

Nova solução eletrolítica intravenosa para uso veterinário: efeitos sobre o perfil eletrolítico e ácido base em bovinos adultos hígidos / Effects of a new intravenous electrolyte solution for use in veterinary practice on the electrolyte and acid-base balances of healthy cattle

The effects of a new intravenous polyionic solution on electrolyte and acid-base balances in cattle were evaluated. Eight healthy adult, crossbred Bos taurus cattle received two treatments in a cross-over design: isotonic saline solution (IS) and test solution (TS) with 145 mEq of Na+, 5 mEq of K+, 4 mEq of Ca++, 2 mEq of Mg++, 96 mEq of Cl-, 60 mEq of lactate, 50 g of dextrose, and 4 mg of cyanocobalamin per liter. The solutions were IV infused in a volume corresponding to 5% of BW, through 3 hours. Venous blood samples were taken before the infusion and 3, 6, 9, and 24 hours after the beginning of the infusion. Glucose, L-lactate, Ca, P, Mg, pH, pCO2, HCO3-, BE, Na+, K+, Cl-, and Ca++ were measured. Data were analyzed through repeated measures ANOVA. IS caused acidifying effect due to hyperchloremia and decreased plasma strong ion difference (SID). On the contrary, TS induced mild and transient alkalinization without changes in Na+ and Cl- plasma levels. Transient hypokalemia and hyperglycemia were presented at the end of the ST infusion but did not provoke apparent clinical signs. We concluded that TS is a safe choice for fluid therapy in cattle, inducing low magnitude iatrogenic changes as an advantage.

Objetivou-se avaliar os efeitos de uma nova solução hidratante intravenosa sobre os equilíbrios eletrolítico e ácido-base de bovinos. Para tanto, oito animais adultos hígidos, mestiços taurinos foram submetidos a dois tratamentos em delineamento cross-over: solução salina isotônica (SI) e solução teste (ST) composta por 145 mEq de Na+, 5 mEq de K+, 4 mEq de Ca++, 2 mEq de Mg++, 96 mEq de Cl-, 60 mEq de lactato, 50 g de dextrose e 4 mg de cianocobalamina por litro. As soluções foram administradas por via intravenosa, em volume correspondente a 5% do peso corporal, durante três horas de infusão contínua. Amostras de sangue venoso foram colhidas antes da infusão e três, seis, nove e 24 horas após o início da infusão para determinações de glicose, lactato L, Ca, P, Mg, pH, pCO2, HCO3-, BE, Na+, K+, Cl- e Ca++. Os resultados foram analisados por análise de variâncias de medidas repetidas. Ao contrário da SI, que causou hipercloremia e redução da diferença de íons fortes no plasma (SID), determinando efeito acidificante, a ST gerou alcalinização leve e transitória e não provocou alteração das concentrações de Na+ e de Cl-. A hipopotassemia e a hiperglicemia, presentes ao final da infusão da ST, foram transitórias e não determinaram sinais clínicos evidentes. Conclui-se que a ST é uma alternativa segura para a terapia com fluidos em bovinos, tendo a vantagem de provocar alterações iatrogênicas de baixa magnitude.

Nova solução eletrolítica intravenosa para uso veterinário: efeitos sobre o perfil eletrolítico e ácido base em bovinos adultos hígidos / Effects of a new intravenous electrolyte solution for use in veterinary practice on the electrolyte and acid-base balances of healthy cattle

The effects of a new intravenous polyionic solution on electrolyte and acid-base balances in cattle were evaluated. Eight healthy adult, crossbred Bos taurus cattle received two treatments in a cross-over design: isotonic saline solution (IS) and test solution (TS) with 145 mEq of Na+, 5 mEq of K+, 4 mEq of Ca++, 2 mEq of Mg++, 96 mEq of Cl-, 60 mEq of lactate, 50 g of dextrose, and 4 mg of cyanocobalamin per liter. The solutions were IV infused in a volume corresponding to 5% of BW, through 3 hours. Venous blood samples were taken before the infusion and 3, 6, 9, and 24 hours after the beginning of the infusion. Glucose, L-lactate, Ca, P, Mg, pH, pCO2, HCO3-, BE, Na+, K+, Cl-, and Ca++ were measured. Data were analyzed through repeated measures ANOVA. IS caused acidifying effect due to hyperchloremia and decreased plasma strong ion difference (SID). On the contrary, TS induced mild and transient alkalinization without changes in Na+ and Cl- plasma levels. Transient hypokalemia and hyperglycemia were presented at the end of the ST infusion but did not provoke apparent clinical signs. We concluded that TS is a safe choice for fluid therapy in cattle, inducing low magnitude iatrogenic changes as an advantage.(AU)

Objetivou-se avaliar os efeitos de uma nova solução hidratante intravenosa sobre os equilíbrios eletrolítico e ácido-base de bovinos. Para tanto, oito animais adultos hígidos, mestiços taurinos foram submetidos a dois tratamentos em delineamento cross-over: solução salina isotônica (SI) e solução teste (ST) composta por 145 mEq de Na+, 5 mEq de K+, 4 mEq de Ca++, 2 mEq de Mg++, 96 mEq de Cl-, 60 mEq de lactato, 50 g de dextrose e 4 mg de cianocobalamina por litro. As soluções foram administradas por via intravenosa, em volume correspondente a 5% do peso corporal, durante três horas de infusão contínua. Amostras de sangue venoso foram colhidas antes da infusão e três, seis, nove e 24 horas após o início da infusão para determinações de glicose, lactato L, Ca, P, Mg, pH, pCO2, HCO3-, BE, Na+, K+, Cl- e Ca++. Os resultados foram analisados por análise de variâncias de medidas repetidas. Ao contrário da SI, que causou hipercloremia e redução da diferença de íons fortes no plasma (SID), determinando efeito acidificante, a ST gerou alcalinização leve e transitória e não provocou alteração das concentrações de Na+ e de Cl-. A hipopotassemia e a hiperglicemia, presentes ao final da infusão da ST, foram transitórias e não determinaram sinais clínicos evidentes. Conclui-se que a ST é uma alternativa segura para a terapia com fluidos em bovinos, tendo a vantagem de provocar alterações iatrogênicas de baixa magnitude.(AU)

NOVA SOLUÇÃO ELETROLÍTICA INTRAVENOSA PARA USO VETERINÁRIO: EFEITOS SOBRE O PERFIL ELETROLÍTICO E ÁCIDO BASE EM BOVINOS ADULTOS HÍGIDOS

Abstract The effects of a new intravenous polyionic solution on electrolyte and acid-base balances in cattle were evaluated. Eight healthy adult, crossbred Bos taurus cattle received two treatments in a cross-over design: isotonic saline solution (IS) and test solution (TS) with 145 mEq of Na+, 5 mEq of K+, 4 mEq of Ca++, 2 mEq of Mg++, 96 mEq of Cl-, 60 mEq of lactate, 50 g of dextrose, and 4 mg of cyanocobalamin per liter. The solutions were IV infused in a volume corresponding to 5% of BW, through 3 hours. Venous blood samples were taken before the infusion and 3, 6, 9, and 24 hours after the beginning of the infusion. Glucose, L-lactate, Ca, P, Mg, pH, pCO2, HCO3-, BE, Na+, K+, Cl-, and Ca++ were measured. Data were analyzed through repeated measures ANOVA. IS caused acidifying effect due to hyperchloremia and decreased plasma strong ion difference (SID). On the contrary, TS induced mild and transient alkalinization without changes in Na+ and Cl- plasma levels. Transient hypokalemia and hyperglycemia were presented at the end of the ST infusion but did not provoke apparent clinical signs. We concluded that TS is a safe choice for fluid therapy in cattle, inducing low magnitude iatrogenic changes as an advantage.

Resumo Objetivou-se avaliar os efeitos de uma nova solução hidratante intravenosa sobre os equilíbrios eletrolítico e ácido-base de bovinos. Para tanto, oito animais adultos hígidos, mestiços taurinos foram submetidos a dois tratamentos em delineamento cross-over: solução salina isotônica (SI) e solução teste (ST) composta por 145 mEq de Na+, 5 mEq de K+, 4 mEq de Ca++, 2 mEq de Mg++, 96 mEq de Cl-, 60 mEq de lactato, 50 g de dextrose e 4 mg de cianocobalamina por litro. As soluções foram administradas por via intravenosa, em volume correspondente a 5% do peso corporal, durante três horas de infusão contínua. Amostras de sangue venoso foram colhidas antes da infusão e três, seis, nove e 24 horas após o início da infusão para determinações de glicose, lactato L, Ca, P, Mg, pH, pCO2, HCO3-, BE, Na+, K+, Cl- e Ca++. Os resultados foram analisados por análise de variâncias de medidas repetidas. Ao contrário da SI, que causou hipercloremia e redução da diferença de íons fortes no plasma (SID), determinando efeito acidificante, a ST gerou alcalinização leve e transitória e não provocou alteração das concentrações de Na+ e de Cl-. A hipopotassemia e a hiperglicemia, presentes ao final da infusão da ST, foram transitórias e não determinaram sinais clínicos evidentes. Conclui-se que a ST é uma alternativa segura para a terapia com fluidos em bovinos, tendo a vantagem de provocar alterações iatrogênicas de baixa magnitude.

Passive transfer of immunity and serum proteinogram during the first 35 days of age in Nelore calves conceived naturally or through in vitro fertilization / Transferência de imunidade passiva e proteinograma sérico até os 35 dias de vida em bezerros da raça Nelore concebidos naturalmente ou produtos da fecundação in vitro

Background: Some reports indicate that calves produced by in vitro fertilization (IVF) may have excessive birth weights, increasing the rates of dystocia. Prolonged labor can cause the birth of lethargic calves that slowly ingest colostrum; this may compromise the intestinal absorption of immunoglobulins. Although the number of beef calves produced by IVF is high in Brazil, there have been few physiological studies examining the neonatal period in such cases. The aim of this study was to evaluate the passive transfer of immunity, and characterize the variation in serum protein concentrations, in Nelore calves up to 35 days of age, comparing naturally conceived calves with those conceived by IVF. Materials, Methods & Results: Forty healthy newborn Nelore calves were randomly selected and allocated into two groups (n = 20) according to their method of conception (natural versus IVF), and each group was composed of ten males and ten females. All calves were born and raised on the same farm, and kept with their mothers on extensive management condition. Blood samples were collected between 24 and 36 h after birth, and at 7, 14, 21, 28, and 35 days of age. Total protein (TP) concentration in serum was measured by the biuret method, and gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) serum activity was measured by the kinetic method. Concentrations of serum albumin, as well as alpha 1-, alpha 2 [...](AU)

Passive transfer of immunity and serum proteinogram during the first 35 days of age in Nelore calves conceived naturally or through in vitro fertilization / Transferência de imunidade passiva e proteinograma sérico até os 35 dias de vida em bezerros da raça Nelore concebidos naturalmente ou produtos da fecundação in vitro

Background: Some reports indicate that calves produced by in vitro fertilization (IVF) may have excessive birth weights, increasing the rates of dystocia. Prolonged labor can cause the birth of lethargic calves that slowly ingest colostrum; this may compromise the intestinal absorption of immunoglobulins. Although the number of beef calves produced by IVF is high in Brazil, there have been few physiological studies examining the neonatal period in such cases. The aim of this study was to evaluate the passive transfer of immunity, and characterize the variation in serum protein concentrations, in Nelore calves up to 35 days of age, comparing naturally conceived calves with those conceived by IVF. Materials, Methods & Results: Forty healthy newborn Nelore calves were randomly selected and allocated into two groups (n = 20) according to their method of conception (natural versus IVF), and each group was composed of ten males and ten females. All calves were born and raised on the same farm, and kept with their mothers on extensive management condition. Blood samples were collected between 24 and 36 h after birth, and at 7, 14, 21, 28, and 35 days of age. Total protein (TP) concentration in serum was measured by the biuret method, and gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) serum activity was measured by the kinetic method. Concentrations of serum albumin, as well as alpha 1-, alpha 2 [...]

Effects of a new intravenous electrolyte solution for veterinary therapy on the electrolyte and acid-base balances of healthy horses / Efeito de uma nova solução eletrolítica intravenosa para uso veterinário sobre os equilíbrios eletrolítico e ácido base de equinos sadios

The effects of a new intravenous electrolyte solution for veterinary therapy on electrolyte and acid-base balances of horses were evaluated, assessing the potential of the use of this solution as a rational alternative in fluid therapy. Eight healthy adult horses, including 4 males and 4 females, received two treatments in a cross-over design: isotonic saline solution (IS) and a test solution (TS) containing 145mEq of Na+, 5mEq of K+, 4mEq of Ca++, 2mEq of Mg++, 96mEq of Cl-, 60mEq of lactate, 50g of dextrose, and 4mg of cyanocobalamin per liter. Solutions were IV infused in a volume corresponding to 5% of BW, over 3 hours. Venous blood samples were taken 5 times before and after the infusion (at 0, 3, 6, 9 e 24h), for pHv, pCO2v, HCO3 -v, BEv, Na+, K+, Cl-, Ca++, Ca, P, Mg, glucose and L-lactate measurements, and AG and SID calculations. The data were analyzed through repeated measures ANOVA. The IS caused mild acidifying effect by increasing Cl- and decreasing plasma SID. In contrast, the TS induced mild and transient hypochloremia without changes in acid-base balance. Hyperglycemia was present at the end of the TS infusion and reversed 6 hours later. The horses did not exhibit any clinical changes. We concluded that TS is an option for fluid therapy in horses.(AU)

Considerando a possibilidade de ser empregada como alternativa racional na terapia com fluidos, avaliaram-se os efeitos de uma nova solução eletrolítica intravenosa, desenvolvida para uso veterinário, sobre os equilíbrios eletrolítico e ácido base de equinos. Oito equinos adultos sadios, quatro machos e quatro fêmeas, foram submetidos a dois tratamentos em delineamento cross-over: solução salina isotônica (SI) e solução teste (ST), composta por 145mEq de Na+, 5mEq de K+, 4mEq de Ca++, 2mEq de Mg++, 96mEq de Cl-, 60mEq de lactato, 50g de dextrose e 4mg de cianocobalamina por litro. As soluções foram administradas por via intravenosa, em volume correspondente a 5% do peso corporal, durante três horas de infusão contínua. Amostras de sangue venoso foram colhidas em cinco momentos, antes e após a infusão (0, 3, 6, 9 e 24h), para determinações de pHv, pCO2v, HCO3 -v, BEv, Na+, K+, Cl-, Ca++, Ca, P, Mg, glicose e lactato L, e para cálculo de AG e SID. Os resultados foram analisados por análise de variância de medidas repetidas. Enquanto a SI gerou efeito acidificante discreto, com elevação da cloremia e redução da SID plasmática, a ST causou hipocloremia discreta e transitória e não interferiu com o equilíbrio ácido base. A hiperglicemia, presente ao final da infusão da ST, reverteu-se seis horas após. Os equinos não manifestaram alterações clínicas. Conclui-se que a ST é uma alternativa para a terapia com fluidos em equinos.(AU)

Validação do hemoglobinômetro portátil Hemo_Vet em cães / A validation of Hemo_Vet, a portable hemoglobinometer, in dogs

A determinação da hemoglobina (Hb) e do volume globular (VG) de cães pode ser realizada por diferentes métodos, dentre eles o teste rápido pelo hemoglobinômetro portátil. Por ser um método simples, que requer pouco volume de sangue, este método tem se tornado cada vez mais difundido. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar o desempenho do hemoglobinômetro portátil Hemo_Vet na dosagem de hemoglobina e estimativa do volume globular de cães.Foram utilizadas 100 amostras de sangue de cães comparando os valores de Hb e VG fornecidos pelo Hemo_Vet com os valores determinados por analisador automático hematológico (BC2800VET) e pela técnica do microematócrito. Para análise dos dados foi utilizada a metodologia de Bland-Altman. Ao comparar os valores de Hb obtidos pelo aparelho BC2800VET com os valores obtidos pelo Hemo_Vet através do gráfico de Bland-Altman, observou-se alta concordância entre os métodos, com um viés muito próximo de zero (0,17), e que apesar de ser estatisticamente significativo (p=0,0003), não tem importância clínica. Na avaliação da concordância entre o Hemo_Vet e o aparelho BC2800VET e entre o Hemo_Vet e a técnica do microematócrito na estimativa do VG, o viés obtido foi 7,8 e 2,8 respectivamente, indicando grande variação entre os métodos. Além disso, o hemoglobinômetro não foi capaz de determinar valores de VG abaixo de 18% e acima de 59%. Na avaliação da precisão do aparelho, os desvios-padrão e coeficientes de variação indicaram pouca variação.. Os resultados obtidos indicam que o hemoglobinômetro portátil Hemo_Vet possui boa precisão e cumpre o seu principal propósito, que é a dosagem de Hb. Já para a estimativa do VG, não se mostrou muito eficaz, por apresentar grande variação em relação aos dois métodos a que foi comparado. Esses resultados revelaram a necessidade da mudança do fator de conversão para determinação do VG em cães de 2,94 para 3,54.(AU)

Determinations of hemoglobin (Hb) levels and packed cell volumes (PCV) can be performed by various methods, including rapid testing using a portable hemoglobinometer. As a simple method that requires small blood samples and provides results in seconds, the utilization of portable hemoglobinometers has become increasingly widespread. The aim of this study was to evaluate the performance of the Hemo_ Vet, a portable hemoglobinometer, in Hb measurements and PCV determinations in dogs. A total of 100 blood samples were used to compare the Hb and PCV values provided by the Hemo_Vet with those obtained using an automatic hematology analyzer (BC2800VET) and the microhematocrit technique. The Bland-Altman method was used for data analysis. Bland-Altman analysis revealed a high level of agreement between the Hb values obtained from the BC2800VET and those obtained using the Hemo_ Vet. The bias was close to zero (0.17), and although it was statistically significant (p = 0.0003), it unlikely would result in any clinically significant effects. The differences in the PCV values generated using the hemoglobinometer and the BC2800VET technique and those generated using the hemoglobinometer and microhematocrit technique exhibited a bias of 7.80 and 2.80, respectively, indicating a high degree of variability between these methods. In addition, the hemoglobinometer was not able to determine PCV values below 18% and above 59%. The precision, standard deviation and coefficients of variation for the device all showed low variation. These results indicate that the hemoglobinometer exhibits good precision and fulfills its primary purpose, which is to measure Hb levels. However, this device was less effective in determining PCV values, where it exhibited high level of variation in both methods of comparison. These results revealed the need to change the conversion factor for estimations of PCV values from 2.94 to 3.54 for dogs.(AU)

Intoxicação espontânea por Crotalaria incana em bovinos no norte do estado do Paraná / Spontaneous Crotalaria incana poisoning in cattle in the state of Paraná, Brazil

As plantas do gênero Crotalaria têm sido descritas como tóxicas para várias espécies de animais domésticos. O objetivo desse trabalho é relatar, pela primeira vez no Brasil, um surto de intoxicação natural por C. incana. O surto aconteceu no município de Nova América da Colina, mesorregião norte pioneiro do estado do Paraná, causando a morte de 30 animais de um lote de 223 novilhas para engorda, entre três e cinco anos de idade, que estavam em um piquete invadido por C. incana. Os bovinos apresentaram encefalopatia hepática caracterizada por cegueira, depressão e agressividade, evoluindo para a morte em 48 horas. A atividade sérica das enzimas gamaglutamiltransferase e fosfatase alcalina estava aumentada. Congestão hepática e padrão lobular evidente, vesícula biliar aumentada e edema no mesentério próximo à vesícula biliar representaram os principais achados de necropsia. Ao exame histológico observaram-se necrose hepática hemorrágica na região centrolobular com megalocitose e áreas de degeneração esponjosa no tálamo. Os índices de morbidade e de letalidade foram 13,45% e 100%, respectivamente. As evidências epidemiológicas, clínicas e patológicas sugerem o diagnóstico de intoxicação por C. incana.(AU)

Plants of genus Crotalaria have been reported as poisonous for many species of domestic animals. The aim of this work is to report, for the first time in Brazil, an outbreak of C. incana poisoning. The outbreak took place in Nova América da Colina County, Northern region of Paraná state, Brazil, causing death of 30 Nelore heifers in a herd of 223 animals, between 3 and 5 years old. The animals were grazing on pasture fully infested with C. incana. The main clinical signs were characteristic of hepatic encephalopathy and consisted of blindness, depression, aggressiveness, recumbency and death in 48 hours. Gama-glutamyltransferase, and alkaline phosphatase activities were increased. The main necropsy findings were liver congestion and evident lobular pattern, increased gall bladder volume and mesentery oedema near gall bladder. Histological exams showed hepatic hemorrhagic centrolobular necrosis, megalocitosis and spongiform degeneration in thalamus. Morbidity and lethality rates were, respectively, 13,45% and 100%. Epidemiological, clinical and pathological findings suggest that C. incana poisoning was the cause of illness.(AU)