Fatal hemothorax caused by pleural mesothelioma in a lion / Hemotórax fatal causado por mesotelioma pleural em um leão

Mesothelioma is considered a malignant neoplasm caused by the proliferation of mesothelial cells mostly from the pleura, peritoneum and pericardium. Here we described a case of fatal hemothorax caused by pleural mesothelioma in a lion by means of necropsy, histopathology and immunohistochemistry. Gross inspection of the thoracic cavity showed hemothorax with about 4 liters of blood. Microscopically, numerous, randomly distributed, soft, red-pink, irregular masses with up to 1cm in diameter were observed in both visceral and parietal pleurae. Microscopically, a papillary structure pattern was observed in the thoracic masses, composed mainly by one layer of cubic mesothelial cells, which presented eosinophilic cytoplasm, central nucleus and evident nucleolus, supported by a low cellular fibrovascularstroma. Neoplastic cells were positive for both cytokeratin and vimentin by immunohistochemistry. This seems to be the first report of fatal hemothorax caused by pleural mesothelioma in a lion.(AU)

O mesotelioma é considerado um neoplasma maligna causada pela proliferação de células mesoteliais, principalmente da pleura, peritôneo e pericárdio. O presente caso descreve os achados macroscópicos, microscópicos e imuno-histoquímicos do hemotórax fatal causado por um mesotelioma pleural em um leão. Macroscopicamente, na cavidade torácica, foi observado cerca de 4 litros de sangue. Além disso, foram observadas numerosas massas macias, vermelho-rosa, irregulares, com até 1cm de diâmetro e distribuídas aleatoriamente pelas pleuras parietal e visceral. Microscopicamente, as massas torácicas apresentavam estruturas papilares, compostas por uma camada de células mesoteliais, que apresentavam citoplasma eosinofílico, núcleo central e nucléolo evidente, suportada por um estroma fibrovascular pouco celular. A imuno-histoquímica foi positiva para ambas citoqueratina e vimentina nas células neoplásicas. Este trabalho descreve o que parece ser o primeiro relato de um hemotórax fatal causado por um mesotelioma pleural em um leão.(AU)

Fatal hemothorax caused by pleural mesothelioma in a lion / Hemotórax fatal causado por mesotelioma pleural em um leão

Mesothelioma is considered a malignant neoplasm caused by the proliferation of mesothelial cells mostly from the pleura, peritoneum and pericardium. Here we described a case of fatal hemothorax caused by pleural mesothelioma in a lion by means of necropsy, histopathology and immunohistochemistry. Gross inspection of the thoracic cavity showed hemothorax with about 4 liters of blood. Microscopically, numerous, randomly distributed, soft, red-pink, irregular masses with up to 1cm in diameter were observed in both visceral and parietal pleurae. Microscopically, a papillary structure pattern was observed in the thoracic masses, composed mainly by one layer of cubic mesothelial cells, which presented eosinophilic cytoplasm, central nucleus and evident nucleolus, supported by a low cellular fibrovascularstroma. Neoplastic cells were positive for both cytokeratin and vimentin by immunohistochemistry. This seems to be the first report of fatal hemothorax caused by pleural mesothelioma in a lion.(AU)

O mesotelioma é considerado um neoplasma maligna causada pela proliferação de células mesoteliais, principalmente da pleura, peritôneo e pericárdio. O presente caso descreve os achados macroscópicos, microscópicos e imuno-histoquímicos do hemotórax fatal causado por um mesotelioma pleural em um leão. Macroscopicamente, na cavidade torácica, foi observado cerca de 4 litros de sangue. Além disso, foram observadas numerosas massas macias, vermelho-rosa, irregulares, com até 1cm de diâmetro e distribuídas aleatoriamente pelas pleuras parietal e visceral. Microscopicamente, as massas torácicas apresentavam estruturas papilares, compostas por uma camada de células mesoteliais, que apresentavam citoplasma eosinofílico, núcleo central e nucléolo evidente, suportada por um estroma fibrovascular pouco celular. A imuno-histoquímica foi positiva para ambas citoqueratina e vimentina nas células neoplásicas. Este trabalho descreve o que parece ser o primeiro relato de um hemotórax fatal causado por um mesotelioma pleural em um leão.(AU)

Matrix metalloproteinases 2 and 9 in rabbits with doxorubicin-induced cardiomyopathy / Metaloproteinases de matriz 2 e 9 em coelhos com cardiomiopatia induzida pela doxorrubicina

Some studies have shown the role played by matrix metalloproteinases and their inhibitors in doxorubicin cardiotoxicity. In this study, we sought to investigate how plasma and myocardial MMP 2 and 9 perform in rabbits with doxorubicin-induced cardiomyopathy, searching for a correlation between the activity of these collagenases and cardiac remodeling. Cardiomyopathy was induced by doxorubicin given intravenously twice a week for six consecutive weeks. Plasma MMP activity and the echocardiogram were assessed at baseline, and at 15 and 45 days after first injection of doxorubicin. The myocardial activity of these enzymes was solely evaluated in nine rabbits at 45 days, and results were compared with nine healthy controls. We only identified the full-length forms of both MMP 2 and 9 throughout the study. The plasma pro-MMP 2 reduced along the deterioration of cardiac function, while the pro-MMP 9 increased significantly at T45 as compared to baseline and T15. A negative significant correlation was found to exist between the plasma activity of pro-MMP 2 and mitral E-to-mitral septal annular early diastolic velocity ratio, which is an estimate of mean left atrial pressure and congestion. Only pro-MMP 2 was found in myocardial samples, and mean activity of such enzyme was statistically lower than that recorded for healthy controls. Although no active form was documented for either collagenase, the duration of the treatment with doxorubicin played a role in the alteration of plasma pro-forms activity. However, these changes could not be associated with most echocardiographic parameters that are supportive of cardiac remodeling.(AU)

Alguns estudos já demonstraram o papel exercido pelas metaloproteinases de matriz e seus inibidores na cardiotoxicidade promovida pela doxorrubicina. Assim, este estudo teve como objetivo investigar o comportamento das MMPs 2 e 9 plasmáticas e miocárdicas em coelhos com cardiomiopatia induzida pela doxorrubicina, buscando determinar se há correlação entre a atividade dessas colagenases e o remodelamento cardíaco. A cardiomiopatia foi induzida pela doxorrubicina aplicada por via intravenosa duas vezes por semana ao longo de seis semanas consecutivas. A atividade plasmática das MMPs e o ecocardiograma foram avaliados no momento basal e aos 15 e 45 dias após a primeira aplicação da doxorrubicina. A atividade miocárdica dessas enzimas foi quantificada em apenas nove coelhos aos 45 dias e os resultados comparados com outros nove controles saudáveis. Foram identificadas apenas as formas inativas das MMPs 2 e 9 durante todo o estudo. A pro-MMP 2 plasmática reduziu à medida que a função cardiaca se deteriorou, enquanto a pro-MMP 9 aumentou significativamente em T45 quando comparada aos momentos basal e T15. Houve correlação negativa significativa entre a atividade plasmática da pro-MMP 2 e a relação entre E mitral e a velocidade anular mitral no início da diástole, um parâmetro que permite estimar a pressão atrial esquerda média e a congestão. Apenas a pro-MMP 2 foi documentada nas amostras miocárdicas dos coelhos com cardiomiopatia e atividade media dessa enzima foi estatisticamente menor que aquela observada nos controles saudáveis. Embora a forma ativa de ambas as colagenases não tenha sido identificada, o tempo de tratamento com doxorrubicina interferiu na atividade das formas inativas plasmáticas. Contudo, essas alterações não se associaram com a maioria dos parâmetros ecocardiográficos que indicam remodelamento cardíaco.(AU)

Matrix metalloproteinases 2 and 9 in rabbits with doxorubicin-induced cardiomyopathy / Metaloproteinases de matriz 2 e 9 em coelhos com cardiomiopatia induzida pela doxorrubicina

Some studies have shown the role played by matrix metalloproteinases and their inhibitors in doxorubicin cardiotoxicity. In this study, we sought to investigate how plasma and myocardial MMP 2 and 9 perform in rabbits with doxorubicin-induced cardiomyopathy, searching for a correlation between the activity of these collagenases and cardiac remodeling. Cardiomyopathy was induced by doxorubicin given intravenously twice a week for six consecutive weeks. Plasma MMP activity and the echocardiogram were assessed at baseline, and at 15 and 45 days after first injection of doxorubicin. The myocardial activity of these enzymes was solely evaluated in nine rabbits at 45 days, and results were compared with nine healthy controls. We only identified the full-length forms of both MMP 2 and 9 throughout the study. The plasma pro-MMP 2 reduced along the deterioration of cardiac function, while the pro-MMP 9 increased significantly at T45 as compared to baseline and T15. A negative significant correlation was found to exist between the plasma activity of pro-MMP 2 and mitral E-to-mitral septal annular early diastolic velocity ratio, which is an estimate of mean left atrial pressure and congestion. Only pro-MMP 2 was found in myocardial samples, and mean activity of such enzyme was statistically lower than that recorded for healthy controls. Although no active form was documented for either collagenase, the duration of the treatment with doxorubicin played a role in the alteration of plasma pro-forms activity. However, these changes could not be associated with most echocardiographic parameters that are supportive of cardiac remodeling.(AU)

Alguns estudos já demonstraram o papel exercido pelas metaloproteinases de matriz e seus inibidores na cardiotoxicidade promovida pela doxorrubicina. Assim, este estudo teve como objetivo investigar o comportamento das MMPs 2 e 9 plasmáticas e miocárdicas em coelhos com cardiomiopatia induzida pela doxorrubicina, buscando determinar se há correlação entre a atividade dessas colagenases e o remodelamento cardíaco. A cardiomiopatia foi induzida pela doxorrubicina aplicada por via intravenosa duas vezes por semana ao longo de seis semanas consecutivas. A atividade plasmática das MMPs e o ecocardiograma foram avaliados no momento basal e aos 15 e 45 dias após a primeira aplicação da doxorrubicina. A atividade miocárdica dessas enzimas foi quantificada em apenas nove coelhos aos 45 dias e os resultados comparados com outros nove controles saudáveis. Foram identificadas apenas as formas inativas das MMPs 2 e 9 durante todo o estudo. A pro-MMP 2 plasmática reduziu à medida que a função cardiaca se deteriorou, enquanto a pro-MMP 9 aumentou significativamente em T45 quando comparada aos momentos basal e T15. Houve correlação negativa significativa entre a atividade plasmática da pro-MMP 2 e a relação entre E mitral e a velocidade anular mitral no início da diástole, um parâmetro que permite estimar a pressão atrial esquerda média e a congestão. Apenas a pro-MMP 2 foi documentada nas amostras miocárdicas dos coelhos com cardiomiopatia e atividade media dessa enzima foi estatisticamente menor que aquela observada nos controles saudáveis. Embora a forma ativa de ambas as colagenases não tenha sido identificada, o tempo de tratamento com doxorrubicina interferiu na atividade das formas inativas plasmáticas. Contudo, essas alterações não se associaram com a maioria dos parâmetros ecocardiográficos que indicam remodelamento cardíaco.(AU)

Matrix metalloproteinases 2 and 9 in rabbits with doxorubicin-induced cardiomyopathy

ABSTRACT: Some studies have shown the role played by matrix metalloproteinases and their inhibitors in doxorubicin cardiotoxicity. In this study, we sought to investigate how plasma and myocardial MMP 2 and 9 perform in rabbits with doxorubicin-induced cardiomyopathy, searching for a correlation between the activity of these collagenases and cardiac remodeling. Cardiomyopathy was induced by doxorubicin given intravenously twice a week for six consecutive weeks. Plasma MMP activity and the echocardiogram were assessed at baseline, and at 15 and 45 days after first injection of doxorubicin. The myocardial activity of these enzymes was solely evaluated in nine rabbits at 45 days, and results were compared with nine healthy controls. We only identified the full-length forms of both MMP 2 and 9 throughout the study. The plasma pro-MMP 2 reduced along the deterioration of cardiac function, while the pro-MMP 9 increased significantly at T45 as compared to baseline and T15. A negative significant correlation was found to exist between the plasma activity of pro-MMP 2 and mitral E-to-mitral septal annular early diastolic velocity ratio, which is an estimate of mean left atrial pressure and congestion. Only pro-MMP 2 was found in myocardial samples, and mean activity of such enzyme was statistically lower than that recorded for healthy controls. Although no active form was documented for either collagenase, the duration of the treatment with doxorubicin played a role in the alteration of plasma pro-forms activity. However, these changes could not be associated with most echocardiographic parameters that are supportive of cardiac remodeling.

RESUMO: Alguns estudos já demonstraram o papel exercido pelas metaloproteinases de matriz e seus inibidores na cardiotoxicidade promovida pela doxorrubicina. Assim, este estudo teve como objetivo investigar o comportamento das MMPs 2 e 9 plasmáticas e miocárdicas em coelhos com cardiomiopatia induzida pela doxorrubicina, buscando determinar se há correlação entre a atividade dessas colagenases e o remodelamento cardíaco. A cardiomiopatia foi induzida pela doxorrubicina aplicada por via intravenosa duas vezes por semana ao longo de seis semanas consecutivas. A atividade plasmática das MMPs e o ecocardiograma foram avaliados no momento basal e aos 15 e 45 dias após a primeira aplicação da doxorrubicina. A atividade miocárdica dessas enzimas foi quantificada em apenas nove coelhos aos 45 dias e os resultados comparados com outros nove controles saudáveis. Foram identificadas apenas as formas inativas das MMPs 2 e 9 durante todo o estudo. A pro-MMP 2 plasmática reduziu à medida que a função cardiaca se deteriorou, enquanto a pro-MMP 9 aumentou significativamente em T45 quando comparada aos momentos basal e T15. Houve correlação negativa significativa entre a atividade plasmática da pro-MMP 2 e a relação entre E mitral e a velocidade anular mitral no início da diástole, um parâmetro que permite estimar a pressão atrial esquerda média e a congestão. Apenas a pro-MMP 2 foi documentada nas amostras miocárdicas dos coelhos com cardiomiopatia e atividade media dessa enzima foi estatisticamente menor que aquela observada nos controles saudáveis. Embora a forma ativa de ambas as colagenases não tenha sido identificada, o tempo de tratamento com doxorrubicina interferiu na atividade das formas inativas plasmáticas. Contudo, essas alterações não se associaram com a maioria dos parâmetros ecocardiográficos que indicam remodelamento cardíaco.

Detection of natural occurrence of Tritrichomonas foetus in cats in Araçatuba, São Paulo, Brazil / Detecção da ocorrência natural de Tritrichomonas foetus em gatos em Araçatuba, São Paulo

The aim of this study was to investigate the occurrence of Tritrichomonas foetus in cats in the area surrounding the city of Araçatuba municipality, State of São Paulo, Brazil. Fecal samples from 129 cats were collected by rectal flush technique. It was compared two diagnosis methods, direct examination of feces and PCR. The presence of T. foetus DNA was verified using PCR by amplification of 347-bp fragment from the primers TFR3 and TFR4 and amplicons of positive cases were sequenced. Statistical analyses were performed investigating the associations between T. foetus infection with gender, age, breed, presence of diarrhea and/or history of diarrhea, previous treatment, lifestyle, origin, environment, and co-infection. T. foetus was observed in one sample (n=129) by direct microscopic examination of feces while PCR was positive in five samples (3.9%). Giardia species and Cryptosporidium species co-infection was also observed. Statistical analyses showed no significant associations between T. foetus infection and all listed factors, although most positive cats were asymptomatic and lived in multi-cat household. The isolates of T. foetus showed 100% identical sequences with other T. foetus isolates from cats around the world. So, the occurrence of T. foetus was confirmed in cats in Araçatuba city (Brazil). This parasite must be considered as a differential diagnosis in cats with diarrhea and also in asymptomatic carriers as source of infection in multi-cat environments.(AU)

O objetivo deste estudo foi investigar a ocorrência de Tritrichomonas foetus em gatos na região do município de Araçatuba, SP, Brasil. Foram coletadas amostras fecais de 129 gatos através da técnica de lavado retal. Dois métodos diagnósticos foram comparados, o exame direto das fezes e a PCR. A presença de DNA de T. foetus foi verificada por meio da PCR através da amplificação de 347 pares de bases a partir dos iniciadores específicos TFR3 e TFR4. Posteriormente, os resultados amplificados das amostras positivas foram sequenciadas. Também foi feita análise estatística a fim de investigar a correlação entre infecção por T. foetus e sexo, idade, raça, presença e/ou histórico de diarreia, tratamento prévio, coinfecção, estilo de vida, origem e tipo de ambiente. O protozoário pôde ser observado em uma amostra através do exame direto das fezes e à PCR foram detectadas cinco amostras positivas (3.9%). Foram detectadas coinfecções por Giardia spp. e Cryptosporidium spp. Não foram observadas correlações entre infecção por T. foetus e todos os fatores listados anteriormente, embora a maioria dos felinos positivos fossem assintomáticos e vivessem em ambientes multigatos. O resultado do sequenciamento genético dos isolados das amostras positivas mostrou 100% de similaridade com outros isolados de felinos no mundo. Assim, a ocorrência de T. foetus foi confirmada em gatos em Araçatuba, São Paulo, Brasil. Sendo assim, o parasito deve considerado como diagnóstico diferencial em gatos com diarreia assim como em portadores assintomáticos como fontes de infecção em ambientes multigatos.(AU)

Detection of natural occurrence of Tritrichomonas foetus in cats in Araçatuba, São Paulo, Brazil / Detecção da ocorrência natural de Tritrichomonas foetus em gatos em Araçatuba, São Paulo

The aim of this study was to investigate the occurrence of Tritrichomonas foetus in cats in the area surrounding the city of Araçatuba municipality, State of São Paulo, Brazil. Fecal samples from 129 cats were collected by rectal flush technique. It was compared two diagnosis methods, direct examination of feces and PCR. The presence of T. foetus DNA was verified using PCR by amplification of 347-bp fragment from the primers TFR3 and TFR4 and amplicons of positive cases were sequenced. Statistical analyses were performed investigating the associations between T. foetus infection with gender, age, breed, presence of diarrhea and/or history of diarrhea, previous treatment, lifestyle, origin, environment, and co-infection. T. foetus was observed in one sample (n=129) by direct microscopic examination of feces while PCR was positive in five samples (3.9%). Giardia species and Cryptosporidium species co-infection was also observed. Statistical analyses showed no significant associations between T. foetus infection and all listed factors, although most positive cats were asymptomatic and lived in multi-cat household. The isolates of T. foetus showed 100% identical sequences with other T. foetus isolates from cats around the world. So, the occurrence of T. foetus was confirmed in cats in Araçatuba city (Brazil). This parasite must be considered as a differential diagnosis in cats with diarrhea and also in asymptomatic carriers as source of infection in multi-cat environments.(AU)

O objetivo deste estudo foi investigar a ocorrência de Tritrichomonas foetus em gatos na região do município de Araçatuba, SP, Brasil. Foram coletadas amostras fecais de 129 gatos através da técnica de lavado retal. Dois métodos diagnósticos foram comparados, o exame direto das fezes e a PCR. A presença de DNA de T. foetus foi verificada por meio da PCR através da amplificação de 347 pares de bases a partir dos iniciadores específicos TFR3 e TFR4. Posteriormente, os resultados amplificados das amostras positivas foram sequenciadas. Também foi feita análise estatística a fim de investigar a correlação entre infecção por T. foetus e sexo, idade, raça, presença e/ou histórico de diarreia, tratamento prévio, coinfecção, estilo de vida, origem e tipo de ambiente. O protozoário pôde ser observado em uma amostra através do exame direto das fezes e à PCR foram detectadas cinco amostras positivas (3.9%). Foram detectadas coinfecções por Giardia spp. e Cryptosporidium spp. Não foram observadas correlações entre infecção por T. foetus e todos os fatores listados anteriormente, embora a maioria dos felinos positivos fossem assintomáticos e vivessem em ambientes multigatos. O resultado do sequenciamento genético dos isolados das amostras positivas mostrou 100% de similaridade com outros isolados de felinos no mundo. Assim, a ocorrência de T. foetus foi confirmada em gatos em Araçatuba, São Paulo, Brasil. Sendo assim, o parasito deve considerado como diagnóstico diferencial em gatos com diarreia assim como em portadores assintomáticos como fontes de infecção em ambientes multigatos.(AU)

Detection of natural occurrence of Tritrichomonas foetus in cats in Araçatuba, São Paulo, Brazil

ABSTRACT: The aim of this study was to investigate the occurrence of Tritrichomonas foetus in cats in the area surrounding the city of Araçatuba municipality, State of São Paulo, Brazil. Fecal samples from 129 cats were collected by rectal flush technique. It was compared two diagnosis methods, direct examination of feces and PCR. The presence of T. foetus DNA was verified using PCR by amplification of 347-bp fragment from the primers TFR3 and TFR4 and amplicons of positive cases were sequenced. Statistical analyses were performed investigating the associations between T. foetus infection with gender, age, breed, presence of diarrhea and/or history of diarrhea, previous treatment, lifestyle, origin, environment, and co-infection. T. foetus was observed in one sample (n=129) by direct microscopic examination of feces while PCR was positive in five samples (3.9%). Giardia species and Cryptosporidium species co-infection was also observed. Statistical analyses showed no significant associations between T. foetus infection and all listed factors, although most positive cats were asymptomatic and lived in multi-cat household. The isolates of T. foetus showed 100% identical sequences with other T. foetus isolates from cats around the world. So, the occurrence of T. foetus was confirmed in cats in Araçatuba city (Brazil). This parasite must be considered as a differential diagnosis in cats with diarrhea and also in asymptomatic carriers as source of infection in multi-cat environments.

RESUMO: O objetivo deste estudo foi investigar a ocorrência de Tritrichomonas foetus em gatos na região do município de Araçatuba, SP, Brasil. Foram coletadas amostras fecais de 129 gatos através da técnica de lavado retal. Dois métodos diagnósticos foram comparados, o exame direto das fezes e a PCR. A presença de DNA de T. foetus foi verificada por meio da PCR através da amplificação de 347 pares de bases a partir dos iniciadores específicos TFR3 e TFR4. Posteriormente, os resultados amplificados das amostras positivas foram sequenciadas. Também foi feita análise estatística a fim de investigar a correlação entre infecção por T. foetus e sexo, idade, raça, presença e/ou histórico de diarreia, tratamento prévio, coinfecção, estilo de vida, origem e tipo de ambiente. O protozoário pôde ser observado em uma amostra através do exame direto das fezes e à PCR foram detectadas cinco amostras positivas (3.9%). Foram detectadas coinfecções por Giardia spp. e Cryptosporidium spp. Não foram observadas correlações entre infecção por T. foetus e todos os fatores listados anteriormente, embora a maioria dos felinos positivos fossem assintomáticos e vivessem em ambientes multigatos. O resultado do sequenciamento genético dos isolados das amostras positivas mostrou 100% de similaridade com outros isolados de felinos no mundo. Assim, a ocorrência de T. foetus foi confirmada em gatos em Araçatuba, São Paulo, Brasil. Sendo assim, o parasito deve considerado como diagnóstico diferencial em gatos com diarreia assim como em portadores assintomáticos como fontes de infecção em ambientes multigatos.

Blood pressure and renal injury in dogs with visceral leishmaniasis / Pressão sanguínea e lesão renal em cães com leishmaniose visceral

Systemic hypertension is known to be a common consequence of chronic renal disease, which is frequently diagnosed in dogs with visceral leishmaniasis. Although many veterinary investigations have looked at the renal injury caused by Leishmania spp., the role played by this complication in the development of arterial hypertension documented in some animals with visceral leishmaniasis is not completely understood. In this study, 18 adult dogs with naturally-occurring visceral leishmaniasis and varying clinical signs underwent an indirect blood pressure measurement. Also, sera and spot urine were used for laboratory tests. The median systolic blood pressure was 135.2mmHg (95% confidence interval: 128.5-147.7), median mean arterial pressure was 105.8mmHg (98.3-110.4), and median diastolic arterial pressure was 88.5mmHg (77.8-92.5). No differences existed between asymptomatic and symptomatic animals regarding arterial pressure, and no correlations were documented between blood pressure and serum creatinine, blood urea, urine protein-to-creatinine ratio, urine specific gravity, and the fractional excretion of sodium and potassium. Although an association between hypertension and the identification of inflammation on histopathology could not be demonstrated in hypertensive animals, the assessment of kidney samples from 12 dogs indicated mild inflammation with a lymphoplasmacytic infiltrate (6/12), moderate inflammation with multifocal lymphoplasmacytic and histiocytic infiltrates (3/12), and multifocal degeneration and protein casts (2/12). Anti-Leishmania spp. immunohistochemistry assays stained the renal epithelium in 2/12 of the animals. Even though mild systemic hypertension was documented in a small subset of animals, no relationship between the severity of clinical signs and hypertension could be anticipated.(AU)

A hipertensão sistêmica é reconhecida como uma consequência comum da doença renal crônica, cujo diagnóstico é frequente em cães com leishmaniose visceral. Embora muitas pesquisas veterinárias tenham investigado a lesão renal causada pela Leishmania spp., o papel dessa complicação no desenvolvimento da hipertensão arterial documentada em alguns animais com leishmaniose visceral ainda não é completamente compreendido. Neste estudo, 18 cães adultos com diagnóstico de leishmaniose visceral e sinais clínicos variáveis foram submetidos à avaliação indireta da pressão arterial. Além disso, foram coletados soro e urina para análises laboratoriais. As medianas das pressões arteriais sistólica, média e diastólica foram 135,2mmHg (intervalo de confiança de 95%: 128,5-147,7), 105,8mmHg (98,3-110,4) e 88,5mmHg (77,8-92,5), respectivamente. Não foram constatadas diferenças entre os cães assintomáticos e sintomáticos em relação à pressão arterial, assim como não houve correlação entre a pressão arterial e a creatinina e uréia séricas, relação proteína-creatinina urinária, densidade urinária e excreção fracionada de sódio e potássio. Embora não tenha sido evidenciada associação entre hipertensão arterial e inflamação do tecido renal à histopatologia, a avaliação das amostras oriundas de 12 cães indicou inflamação leve, com infiltrado linfoplasmocitário (6/12), inflamação moderada com infiltrados linfoplasmocitário e histiocítico multifocais (3/12), além de degeneração multifocal e cilindros protéicos (2/12). Ensaios imunoistoquímicos anti-Leishmania spp. marcaram o epitélio renal em 2/12 animais. Apesar de hipertensão leve ter sido documentada em uma pequena parcela dos cães estudados, não se evidenciou relação entre a severidade dos sinais clínicos e o desenvolvimento de hipertensão arterial.(AU)

Blood pressure and renal injury in dogs with visceral leishmaniasis / Pressão sanguínea e lesão renal em cães com leishmaniose visceral

Systemic hypertension is known to be a common consequence of chronic renal disease, which is frequently diagnosed in dogs with visceral leishmaniasis. Although many veterinary investigations have looked at the renal injury caused by Leishmania spp., the role played by this complication in the development of arterial hypertension documented in some animals with visceral leishmaniasis is not completely understood. In this study, 18 adult dogs with naturally-occurring visceral leishmaniasis and varying clinical signs underwent an indirect blood pressure measurement. Also, sera and spot urine were used for laboratory tests. The median systolic blood pressure was 135.2mmHg (95% confidence interval: 128.5-147.7), median mean arterial pressure was 105.8mmHg (98.3-110.4), and median diastolic arterial pressure was 88.5mmHg (77.8-92.5). No differences existed between asymptomatic and symptomatic animals regarding arterial pressure, and no correlations were documented between blood pressure and serum creatinine, blood urea, urine protein-to-creatinine ratio, urine specific gravity, and the fractional excretion of sodium and potassium. Although an association between hypertension and the identification of inflammation on histopathology could not be demonstrated in hypertensive animals, the assessment of kidney samples from 12 dogs indicated mild inflammation with a lymphoplasmacytic infiltrate (6/12), moderate inflammation with multifocal lymphoplasmacytic and histiocytic infiltrates (3/12), and multifocal degeneration and protein casts (2/12). Anti-Leishmania spp. immunohistochemistry assays stained the renal epithelium in 2/12 of the animals. Even though mild systemic hypertension was documented in a small subset of animals, no relationship between the severity of clinical signs and hypertension could be anticipated.(AU)

A hipertensão sistêmica é reconhecida como uma consequência comum da doença renal crônica, cujo diagnóstico é frequente em cães com leishmaniose visceral. Embora muitas pesquisas veterinárias tenham investigado a lesão renal causada pela Leishmania spp., o papel dessa complicação no desenvolvimento da hipertensão arterial documentada em alguns animais com leishmaniose visceral ainda não é completamente compreendido. Neste estudo, 18 cães adultos com diagnóstico de leishmaniose visceral e sinais clínicos variáveis foram submetidos à avaliação indireta da pressão arterial. Além disso, foram coletados soro e urina para análises laboratoriais. As medianas das pressões arteriais sistólica, média e diastólica foram 135,2mmHg (intervalo de confiança de 95%: 128,5-147,7), 105,8mmHg (98,3-110,4) e 88,5mmHg (77,8-92,5), respectivamente. Não foram constatadas diferenças entre os cães assintomáticos e sintomáticos em relação à pressão arterial, assim como não houve correlação entre a pressão arterial e a creatinina e uréia séricas, relação proteína-creatinina urinária, densidade urinária e excreção fracionada de sódio e potássio. Embora não tenha sido evidenciada associação entre hipertensão arterial e inflamação do tecido renal à histopatologia, a avaliação das amostras oriundas de 12 cães indicou inflamação leve, com infiltrado linfoplasmocitário (6/12), inflamação moderada com infiltrados linfoplasmocitário e histiocítico multifocais (3/12), além de degeneração multifocal e cilindros protéicos (2/12). Ensaios imunoistoquímicos anti-Leishmania spp. marcaram o epitélio renal em 2/12 animais. Apesar de hipertensão leve ter sido documentada em uma pequena parcela dos cães estudados, não se evidenciou relação entre a severidade dos sinais clínicos e o desenvolvimento de hipertensão arterial.(AU)

Nasal polyposis in a cow

A case report of nasal polyps in an eight year-old Tabapuã cow is reported. The cow had a history of difficulty in breathing, was euthanatized and referred for necropsy. Twenty three pedunculated neoformations were observed in the nasal cavity. Microscopically, polypoid structures were composed by swollen myxomatous stroma lined by pseudostratified columnar epithelium. Immunohistochemistry was positive for cytokeratin in the cytoplasm of epithelial cells only covering the pseudo-stratified respiratory epithelium, whereas anti-vimentin antibody was positive in the cytoplasm of cells and areas of calcification of the tunica media of blood vessels and fibroblasts within the parenchyma of the polyps. The macroscopy, histopathological, and immunohistochemical findings were consistent with nasal polyps. This is the first report of nasal polyposis in a cow in Brazil.(AU)

Nasal polyposis in a cow

A case report of nasal polyps in an eight year-old Tabapuã cow is reported. The cow had a history of difficulty in breathing, was euthanatized and referred for necropsy. Twenty three pedunculated neoformations were observed in the nasal cavity. Microscopically, polypoid structures were composed by swollen myxomatous stroma lined by pseudostratified columnar epithelium. Immunohistochemistry was positive for cytokeratin in the cytoplasm of epithelial cells only covering the pseudo-stratified respiratory epithelium, whereas anti-vimentin antibody was positive in the cytoplasm of cells and areas of calcification of the tunica media of blood vessels and fibroblasts within the parenchyma of the polyps. The macroscopy, histopathological, and immunohistochemical findings were consistent with nasal polyps. This is the first report of nasal polyposis in a cow in Brazil.

Description of visceral, lymphatic and central nervous system lesions in dogs infected with Leishmania spp

Leishmaniases are a group of chronic systemic infectious diseases caused by intracellular protozoa of the genus Leishmania. In the present study the authors aimed to investigate Leishmania spp-induced lesions mainly to detect the presence of the parasite within the CNS and lymph nodes in dogs from the Araguaina region, Tocantins State, Northern Brazil. Descriptive statistical analysis of variance and correlation were conducted, indicating that gross signs and visceral lesions do not correlate positively. Therefore we conclude that the diagnosis cannot be based on macroscopic signs alone presented by the infected dogs.(AU)

Description of visceral, lymphatic and central nervous system lesions in dogs infected with Leishmania spp

Leishmaniases are a group of chronic systemic infectious diseases caused by intracellular protozoa of the genus Leishmania. In the present study the authors aimed to investigate Leishmania spp-induced lesions mainly to detect the presence of the parasite within the CNS and lymph nodes in dogs from the Araguaina region, Tocantins State, Northern Brazil. Descriptive statistical analysis of variance and correlation were conducted, indicating that gross signs and visceral lesions do not correlate positively. Therefore we conclude that the diagnosis cannot be based on macroscopic signs alone presented by the infected dogs.

Visceral Mast Cell Tumor and Mastocythemia in a Dog

Mast cell tumor manifests as a localized proliferation of mast cells in the skin, or less frequently as a systemic disorder, which may be accompanied by the presence of neoplastic mast cells in the peripheral blood (mastocythemia). In some cases, the neoplastic circulating mast cells originate in the bone marrow, designated as mast cell leukemia, rarely observed in dogs, or the cells may arise from visceral mast cell tumors, characterizing systemic mastocytosis. The aim of this report was to describe a case of a six-year-old female German shepherd dog presenting with history of anorexia, hematemesis and diarrhea. The blood work revealed intense mastocythemia (43%), with degranulated mast cells, and anisocytosis. At necropsy, white nodular lesions in the thymic region and an infiltrative mass in mesenteric and abdominal lymph nodes were observed. Those lymph nodes were enlarged and off-white. Histopathological examination revealed neoplastic mast cells in the liver, spleen, lymph nodes, kidneys, lungs, gastric and enteric mucosae, and adrenal glands. The clinical, hematological and histopathological findings were compatible with mastocythemia, associated with a moderately differentiated visceral mast cell tumor.(AU)

Squamous Cell Lung Carcinoma in a Cat

Primary lung neoplasms are rare in small animals and present variable clinical signs. Here we report a case of a 4- year-old male cat which presented with apathy, dyspnea and pleural effusion. The cytological analysis of the pleural effusion revealed massive presence of atypical cells and the histopathological examination of the lung demonstrated tissue infiltration by atypical cells arranged in solid nests. The cytological and histopathological findings were compatible with squamous cell lung carcinoma.(AU)

Intravascular Lymphomatosis in the Central Nervous System of Dogs: Immunohistochemical Investigation in Two Cases

We report here two postmortem cases of dogs with intravascular lymphomatosis affecting the central nervous system. Intravascular lymphomatosis is represented by an exclusively intravascular proliferation of neoplastic lymphoid cells. To characterize the origin of the neoplastic cells, we have proceeded with immunohistochemical analysis to identify B and T lymphocytes and endothelial cells. The results showed predominance of cells from the T cell lineage, and no evidence of B cell origin was found. Few cells from one dog also exhibited cytoplasmatic staining for vimentin and Von Willebrand factor. Although in one case some immunophenotype diversity was observed, the massive presence of CD3 positive cells confirmed these neoplasms as intravascular lymphomatosis of T cell origin.(AU)

Choroid plexus involvement in dogs with spontaneous visceral leishmaniasis: a histopathological investigation

Visceral leishmaniasis is associated with chronic inflammatory stimulation, resulting in different clinical manifestations, ranging from unapparent infection to a systemic disease. In dogs, there are descriptions of neurological involvement with inflammatory infiltrates and specific antibodies in cerebrospinal fluid. To investigate the involvement of the choroid plexus and the blood-CSF barrier during the infection, we describe the morphological alterations in the choroid plexi of dogs naturally infected by Leishmania (Leishmania) chagasi. A total of 44 mixed-breed adult dogs were selected from the Veterinary Hospital of UNESP-Araçatuba and from the Zoonosis Control Center in Araçatuba, São Paulo State, Brazil. This area is endemic for canine visceral leishmaniasis. Routine ELISA tests and cytological examination of a tissue smear of the popliteous lymph node were proceeded to diagnose Leishmania infection. During the necroscopic examination, the brain was collected and samples containing choroid plexi were stored in 10% buffered formalin and subjected to histological procedures, following staining with haematoxylin-eosin, Congo red and Masson's trichromic. The dogs were classified in three experimental groups: symptomatic dogs (n=11), oligosymptomatic dogs (n=21) and uninfected dogs (n=12). The choroid plexi of symptomatic and oligosymptomatic dogs presented a chronic inflammatory reaction with lymphoplasmacytic infiltrate in higher intensity than the control dogs (P=0.0044). These findings give additional support to confirm that the choroid plexus is an important mediator between periphery and the brain, and that the choroid plexus acts as pathway to initiate an inflammatory process within the nervous tissue in visceral leishmaniasis.