Testicular biometry and hierarchy of dominance of the white-lipped peccary (Mammalia, Tayassuidae) / Biometria testicular e hierarquia de dominância do queixada (Mammalia, Tayassuidae)

The objective of this study was to obtain data on the testicular biometry of the white-lipped peccary (Tayassu pecari) and to verify if there is a correlation between the individual's biometric data with their dominance rank. Data were collected from 16 adult males, aged between two and seven years, who made up the same group. By the agonistic interactions analyses we calculated the linearity indexes (h') of the dominance hierarchy and dominance rank. At the end of the behavioral observations, males were captured to collect biometric data from the testis. White-lipped peccaries showed testicles located in a perineal position, inclined cranio-ventrally with oval shape, flattened laterally and with tenso-elastic consistency (2.54±0.07). There was variance in the means (± standard deviation) of testis length (5.88±1.05cm), width (4.24 ± 0.98cm), height (4.44±0.86cm), and total scrotal width (8.78±17.05). The linear dominance hierarchy described the social structure of the males of this group (h'>0.9), with probability of linearity in the hierarchy greater than chance (P = 0.02). There was a correlation between dominance rank with the body mass, length and volume of the testicles. As in general the dimensions of the testicles are directly correlated with sperm production and also testosterone, this characteristic favors the reproductive performance of dominant white-lips males. Therefore, the characteristics of testicular biometry of white-lips should be considered for the selection of individuals more likely to reproduce in captivity favoring the conservation of this vulnerable species.(AU)

O objetivo neste estudo foi obter dados sobre a biometria testicular do queixada (Tayassu pecari) e verificar se há correlação entre os dados biométricos do indivíduo com seu posto de dominância. Os dados foram coletados de 16 queixadas adultos, com idades entre dois e sete anos, que compunham o mesmo grupo. Por meio de análises das interações agonísticas foram calculados os índices de linearidade (h') da hierarquia de dominância e determinado o rank dos indivíduos. Ao final das observações comportamentais, os machos foram capturados para coleta de dados biométricos do testículo. Os queixadas apresentaram testículos localizados em posição perineal, inclinados cranioventralmente com formato oval, achatados láterolateralmente e com consistência tensoelástica (2,54±0,07). Houve variação nas médias (± desvio padrão) do comprimento testicular (5,88±1,05cm), largura (4,24±0,98cm), altura (4,44±0,86cm) e largura escrotal total (8,78±17,05). A hierarquia de dominância linear descreveu a estrutura social dos machos desse grupo (h'>0,9), com probabilidade de linearidade na hierarquia maior que o acaso (P = 0,02). Houve correlação entre a classificação de dominância com a massa corporal, comprimento e volume dos testículos. Como em geral as dimensões dos testículos estão diretamente correlacionadas com a produção de esperma e também de testosterona, essa característica favorece o desempenho reprodutivo de machos de queixadas brancos dominantes. Portanto, as características da biometria testicular de queixadas devem ser consideradas para a seleção de indivíduos com maior probabilidade de reprodução em cativeiro favorecendo a conservação desta espécie vulnerável.(AU)

Survey of avifauna housed in the wild animal triage centers in the state of Bahia, period 2009 to 2019, emphasizing trafficking / Levantamento de avifauna alojada nos Centros de Triagem de Animais Silvestres no estado da Bahia, período 2009 a 2019, com ênfase no tráfico

Brazil is one of the primary suppliers of wildlife for trafficking, which constitutes a significant threat to biodiversity, which can cause the extinction of species, especially birds, the most important victims of trafficking. This study analyzed the wild avifauna collected in the Triage Centers of Wild Animals (CETAS) of Bahia, to inventory the most apprehended species that are threatened with extinction, and estimate the municipalities that function as suppliers and traders of wildlife. Data from 2009 to 2019 were made available by the Salvador and Vitoria da Conquista units, and that from 2010 to 2016 was made available by the, Porto Seguro unit. The survey was conducted through the entry records of birds, considering apprehension, spontaneous deliveries, rescues, and transfers between units involved in the study. Out of the total 80,948 birds analyzed, 65,315 (80.68%) were apprehended; 7,885 (9.74%) were voluntary deliveries; 6,196 (7.65%) were rescues, and 1,034 (1.28%) were transfers. There was no entry modality for 518 (0.64%) specimens. The most trafficked species were Sicalis flaveola (Saffron Finch), Sporophila nigricollis (Yellow-bellied Seedeater), Paroaria dominicana (Red-cowlead Cardinal), Cyanoloxia brissonii (Ultramarine Grosbeak), Sporophila caerulescens (Double-collared Seedeater), and Sporophila albogularis (White-throated Seedeater). Nine hundred twenty six specimens exhibited some threat. Analysis showed that the greatest flow of bird traffic occurs on BR 242 and BR 116. The municipalities that comprise the mesoregions Center-South, Center-North Baiano, and the Metropolitan Region of Salvador are those with greater concentrations of illegal activity. Irecê and Paulo Afonso constitute areas for the capture and commercialization of wild animals.

O Brasil é um dos principais fornecedores de vida silvestre para o tráfico. Essa prática configura ameaça à biodiversidade brasileira, provoca extinção de espécies, sobretudo da avifauna, as principais vítimas do tráfico. O estudo objetivou analisar a avifauna silvestre recolhida nos Centros de Triagem de Animais Silvestres (CETAS) do estado da Bahia, buscando quantificar as espécies mais apreendidas, ameaçadas de extinção e estimar os municípios que atuam como possíveis fornecedores e comercializadores de vida silvestre. Os dados disponibilizados pelas unidades de Salvador e Vitória da Conquista compreenderam o período de 2009 a 2019 e unidade de Porto Seguro, o período de 2010 a 2016. O levantamento foi realizado através dos registros de entrada de aves, considerando apreensões, entregas espontâneas, resgates e transferências entre unidades envolvidas no estudo. Foram recebidas 80.948 aves, sendo procedentes de apreensões 65.315 (80,68%); entregas voluntárias 7.885 (9,74%); resgates 6.196 (7,65%) e transferências 1.034 (1,28%). Não houve registro de modalidade de entrada para 518 (0,64%) espécimes. As espécies mais traficadas foram Sicalis flaveola (Canário-da-terra), Sporophila nigricollis (Papa-capim), Paroaria dominicana (Cardeal-do-nordeste), Cyanoloxia brissonii (Azulão), Sporophila caerulescens (Coleirinho) e Sporophila albogularis (Golinho). Identificou-se 926 espécimes com algum tipo de ameaça. A análise demonstrou que o maior fluxo de tráfico de aves ocorre nas BR 242 e BR 116. Os municípios que compõem as mesorregiões Centro-Sul, Centro Norte Baiano e a Região Metropolitana de Salvador são os que possuem maiores fluxos de atuação no comércio ilegal. Irecê e Paulo Afonso são áreas de captura e comercialização intensa de animais silvestres.

Congenital cutaneous hemangioma in a newborn lamb

Background: Hemangioma is a benign dermal or subcutaneous endothelial cell tumor composed of vascular spaces of varying sizes filled with erythrocytes and lined with a single layer of uniform endothelial cells. Although the pathogenesis is not well defined, these tumors are considered to result from an imbalance in angiogenesis, leading to uncontrolled proliferation of vascular elements. To the best of our knowledge, there are no reports of congenital cutaneous hemangioma in sheep. This report describes the clinical, laboratory, and pathological findings of a case of congenital hemangioma affecting a newborn lamb. Case: A 5-day-old crossbred (Dorper x Santa Inês) lamb presenting with an ear nodule that expanded in the right ear was necropsied. An expansive subcutaneous nodule was observed macroscopically; it occupied approximately 90% of the right ear and had a crusty, irregular surface. The cut surface had multiple cavitations delimited by firm fibrous tissue and a light yellow-to-translucent content. Microscopically, it showed focally extensive subcutaneous neoplastic proliferation and moderate cellularity; it was formed of vascular beds of varied sizes and supported by moderate fibrocollagenous stroma. Suppurative inflammation was observed in the neoplastic vascular beds with large amounts of free basophilic coccoid bacteria inside macrophages. Immunohistochemistry analysis was performed to confirm the diagnosis. Strong cytoplasmic labeling was observed in neoplastic endothelial cells for CD31 and factor VIII. The Ki67 proliferation marker was positive in approximately 5% of neoplastic cells. The cells did not express smooth muscle actin (1A4) or pan-cytokeratin (AE1AE3). Histological characteristics and immunohistochemistry findings were consistent with those of congenital cutaneous hemangioma, a rare neoplasm in sheep. Discussion: The association of clinical, anatomopathological, and immunohistochemical data enabled the diagnosis of congenital cutaneous hemangioma in the 5-day-old lamb. Reports of vascular tumors in sheep are not frequent in literature and usually involve adult animals with no anatomical site predilection. In sheep, the occurrence of nasotracheal hemangioma in a 2-year-old ewe and gingival hemangioma in a 5-year-old sheep have already been described. A cutaneous extra-neural hemangioblastoma was diagnosed in the ear of a 1-month-old lamb. IHC was also used to confirm the diagnosis of hemangioblastoma. Macroscopically, hemangiomas can present as well-delimited and encapsulated masses that when cut, show a reticulated pattern similar to honeycombs that separate the blood-filled cavities. The present case showed a similar conformation but without enough erythrocytes to result in a bloody appearance. Tumor drainage and the predominance of blood serum in the content possibly made it macroscopically translucent. Microscopically, the hemangioma was classified as cavernous. This morphological variation forms large channels separated by fibrous connective tissue stroma, which may contain inflammatory cells. IHC confirmed the endothelial lining of the cystic cavities and was crucial in excluding differential diagnoses. Thus, factor VIII-related antigen was used as a marker for normal and neoplastic cells, as well as for tumoral and reactive neovascularization, in which neoplastic cells were immuno-expressed for CD31 and Factor VIII. In domestic animals, the association between CD31 and Factor VIII is considered more specific for vascular endothelial cells, differentiating them from cells of lymphatic origin. Congenital cutaneous hemangioma occurs in sheep, and its diagnosis and differentiation can be based on histopathology associated with conventional immunohistochemical panels for vascular neoformation.

Uterine segmental aplasia in sheep / Aplasia segmentar uterina em ovelhas

The complete absence of one of the uterine horns, named segmental uterine aplasia or unicorn uterus, occurs due to deficiency in the development of segments of the paramesonephric or Mullerian ducts. It is a congenital or hereditary anomaly of the female reproductive tract caused by recessive genes, which occurrence is unusual. In cows, this malformation was initially called “white heifer disease”, comprising an alteration in the Mullerian ducts in association with the white skin gene that causes aplasia of the uterus, cervix and vagina. Two pieces of sheep reproductive system from a slaughterhouse under federal inspection in the state of Bahia, Brazil, were received for pathological diagnosis. The collection, dissection and macroscopic analysis were carried out. In the macroscopic evaluation, uterine segmental aplasia was identified in both cases, with complete absence of the left uterine horns. Both had agenesis of the uterine tubes associated with the absence of internal bifurcation of the uterine horns. Animals that have a unicorn uterus often have reduced fertility which consequently leads to losses to sheep farming.

A ausência completa de um dos cornos uterinos, denominada aplasia uterina segmentar ou útero unicorno, ocorre por deficiência no desenvolvimento de segmentos dos ductos paramesonéfricos ou Mullerianos. É uma anomalia congênita ou hereditária do trato reprodutor da fêmea causada por genes recessivos, é incomum a ocorrência. Em vacas, essa malforma-ção foi denominada inicialmente como “white heifers desease” ou doenças das novilhas brancas, é uma alteração dos ductos Mullerianos em associação com o gene da pele branca que provoca aplasia de útero, colo uterino e vagina. Foi recebido duas peças de sistema reprodutor de ovelhas provenientes de abatedouro frigorífico sob inspeção federal no estado da Bahia, Brasil para diagnóstico patológico. Procedeu-se a coleta, dissecação e análise macroscópica. Na avaliação macroscópica, identificou--se nos dois casos aplasia segmentar uterina, com ausência completa dos cornos uterinos esquerdo. Ambos apresentavam age-nesia das tubas uterinas associada a ausência de bifurcação interna dos cornos uterinos. Animais que possuem um útero uni-corno frequentemente possuem redução da fertilidade e consequentemente podem causar perdas à ovinocultura brasileira.

Uterine segmental aplasia in sheep / Aplasia segmentar uterina em ovelhas

The complete absence of one of the uterine horns, named segmental uterine aplasia or unicorn uterus, occurs due to deficiency in the development of segments of the paramesonephric or Mullerian ducts. It is a congenital or hereditary anomaly of the female reproductive tract caused by recessive genes, which occurrence is unusual. In cows, this malformation was initially called “white heifer disease”, comprising an alteration in the Mullerian ducts in association with the white skin gene that causes aplasia of the uterus, cervix and vagina. Two pieces of sheep reproductive system from a slaughterhouse under federal inspection in the state of Bahia, Brazil, were received for pathological diagnosis. The collection, dissection and macroscopic analysis were carried out. In the macroscopic evaluation, uterine segmental aplasia was identified in both cases, with complete absence of the left uterine horns. Both had agenesis of the uterine tubes associated with the absence of internal bifurcation of the uterine horns. Animals that have a unicorn uterus often have reduced fertility which consequently leads to losses to sheep farming.(AU)

A ausência completa de um dos cornos uterinos, denominada aplasia uterina segmentar ou útero unicorno, ocorre por deficiência no desenvolvimento de segmentos dos ductos paramesonéfricos ou Mullerianos. É uma anomalia congênita ou hereditária do trato reprodutor da fêmea causada por genes recessivos, é incomum a ocorrência. Em vacas, essa malforma-ção foi denominada inicialmente como “white heifers desease” ou doenças das novilhas brancas, é uma alteração dos ductos Mullerianos em associação com o gene da pele branca que provoca aplasia de útero, colo uterino e vagina. Foi recebido duas peças de sistema reprodutor de ovelhas provenientes de abatedouro frigorífico sob inspeção federal no estado da Bahia, Brasil para diagnóstico patológico. Procedeu-se a coleta, dissecação e análise macroscópica. Na avaliação macroscópica, identificou--se nos dois casos aplasia segmentar uterina, com ausência completa dos cornos uterinos esquerdo. Ambos apresentavam age-nesia das tubas uterinas associada a ausência de bifurcação interna dos cornos uterinos. Animais que possuem um útero uni-corno frequentemente possuem redução da fertilidade e consequentemente podem causar perdas à ovinocultura brasileira.(AU)

Spontaneous poisoning by Palicourea marcgravii in bovine in the Federal District, Brazil / Intoxicação espontânea por Palicourea marcgravii em bovino no Distrito Federal, Brasil

Palicourea marcgravii é considerada a planta tóxica mais importante do Brasil e, até os anos 90, a planta mais importante do Centro-Oeste. Esse fator é explicado devido à sua extensa distribuição, boa palatabilidade, alta toxicidade e efeito cumulativo. Um bovino, Nelore, macho, dois anos, de uma propriedade no Distrito Federal, foi encontrado morto. A propriedade apresentava histórico de acesso à floresta e morte de outros animais. Não foram observadas alterações macroscópicas. Microscopicamente, nos rins, foi observada degeneração hidrópico-vacuolar das células epiteliais do túbulo contorcido distal urinário. Áreas multifocais de cardiomiócitos com necrose de coagulação foram observadas no coração, apresentando núcleos picnóticos com citoplasma hipereosinofílico e perda de estriação. Durante uma visita à propriedade rural, foram encontrados galhos e arbustos com frutos reconhecidos como P. marcgravi. Este relato apresenta os achados patológicos de intoxicação espontânea por P. marcgravii em bovino no Distrito Federal.

Palicourea marcgravii is considered the most important toxic plant in Brazil and, until the 1990s, the most important plant in the Central-Western. This factor is explained due to its extensive distribution, good palatability, high toxicity and cumulative effect. A bovine, Nelore, male, two years old, of a property in the Federal District, was found dead. The property presented history of access to the forest and death of other cattle. No macroscopic changes were observed. Microscopically, in the kidneys, were observed hydropic-vacuolar degeneration of distal contoured urinary tubule epithelial cells. Multifocal areas of cardiomyocytes with coagulation necrosis were noted in the heart presenting pycnotic nuclei with hypereosinophilic cytoplasm and loss of striations. During a visit to the rural property, were found branches and shrubs with fruits recognized as P. marcgravii. This report presents the pathological findings of spontaneous poisoning by P. marcgravii in bovine in the Federal District, Brazil.

Spontaneous poisoning by Palicourea marcgravii in bovine in the Federal District, Brazil / Intoxicação espontânea por Palicourea marcgravii em bovino no Distrito Federal, Brasil

Palicourea marcgravii é considerada a planta tóxica mais importante do Brasil e, até os anos 90, a planta mais importante do Centro-Oeste. Esse fator é explicado devido à sua extensa distribuição, boa palatabilidade, alta toxicidade e efeito cumulativo. Um bovino, Nelore, macho, dois anos, de uma propriedade no Distrito Federal, foi encontrado morto. A propriedade apresentava histórico de acesso à floresta e morte de outros animais. Não foram observadas alterações macroscópicas. Microscopicamente, nos rins, foi observada degeneração hidrópico-vacuolar das células epiteliais do túbulo contorcido distal urinário. Áreas multifocais de cardiomiócitos com necrose de coagulação foram observadas no coração, apresentando núcleos picnóticos com citoplasma hipereosinofílico e perda de estriação. Durante uma visita à propriedade rural, foram encontrados galhos e arbustos com frutos reconhecidos como P. marcgravi. Este relato apresenta os achados patológicos de intoxicação espontânea por P. marcgravii em bovino no Distrito Federal.(AU)

Palicourea marcgravii is considered the most important toxic plant in Brazil and, until the 1990s, the most important plant in the Central-Western. This factor is explained due to its extensive distribution, good palatability, high toxicity and cumulative effect. A bovine, Nelore, male, two years old, of a property in the Federal District, was found dead. The property presented history of access to the forest and death of other cattle. No macroscopic changes were observed. Microscopically, in the kidneys, were observed hydropic-vacuolar degeneration of distal contoured urinary tubule epithelial cells. Multifocal areas of cardiomyocytes with coagulation necrosis were noted in the heart presenting pycnotic nuclei with hypereosinophilic cytoplasm and loss of striations. During a visit to the rural property, were found branches and shrubs with fruits recognized as P. marcgravii. This report presents the pathological findings of spontaneous poisoning by P. marcgravii in bovine in the Federal District, Brazil.(AU)

Encefalitozoonose em coelho (Oryctolagus cuniculus) / Encephalitozoonosis in rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus)

Background: Encephalitozoonosis is caused by the protozoan Encephalitozoon cuniculi, in rabbits, and can affect humans. The disease can be fatal and difficult to diagnose. It can be asymptomatic or cause vestibular neurological disease, paralysis, uveitis in addition to chronic kidney disease in rabbits. The transmission of the microorganism's spores occurs by ingestion, inhalation, or by the transplacental route. The aim of this work is to report a case of encephalitozoonosis in a pet rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus). Case: An Oryctolagus cuniculus with a history of paraparesis of the thoracic and pelvic limbs was referred for necropsy, the evolution of the clinical picture happened in one day. After death, a necropsy was performed. Organ fragments were collected, fixed, and processed routinely for histology. Macroscopically, there was evidence of hepatic lobes, without injury to the other organs. Microscopically it was observed in the white and gray substance of the telencephalon multiple circumscribed granulomas composed of a necrotic center surrounded by macrophages, giant multinucleated cells in addition to lymphocytes and plasmocytes in the periphery, delimited by fibrous connective tissue. Around the vessels, perivascular cuffs with 2 to 4 layers of lymphocytic infiltrate were observed. Besides, special staining of Schiff's Periodic Acid (PAS) and Ziehl-Neelsen was performed, in which numerous cylindrical, eosinophilic structures of approximately 2.5 x 1.0 µm were observed, compatible with E. cuniculi spores. Besides, histiocytic lymphoblasts pericoronitis was noted in the liver. There were no relevant changes in the kidney. Discussion: The diagnosis of encephalitozoonosis in rabbits was based on clinical and anatomopathological findings. Tetraparesis was the predominant sign in the present case and was justified by telencephalic lesions. This clinical sign is included in the literature but is less common than the syndrome such as head tilt and paralysis. The diagnosis of the disease is usually made by post mortem examination when it is possible to identify the spores in the lesions. Multifocal granulomatous encephalitis was the most significant finding in this case, which is also consistent with other studies. The pathogenesis of granulomatous lesions is still controversial. It is known that spores allow phagocytosis by macrophages, which induce the production of interleukins and other cytokines by TCD4 + lymphocytes, thereby activating the action of TCD8 + (cytotoxic) lymphocytes. Natural killer cells, granulocytes, other macrophages, and B lymphocytes are also recruited. Although there is such an inflammatory response, the antibodies produced are not efficient to eliminate the agent from the host organism, however, they contribute to the process of opsonization and consequent phagocytosis, facilitating the destruction of the microsporidium by macrophages. The neurological form was predominant in this case, with no chronic or ocular renal forms, possibly due to the rapid clinical evolution. Special stains were useful for visualizing intralesional spores. Although PAS staining is considered to be of little use, it was relevant in this case. The visualization of the agent made it possible to distinguish differential diagnoses, among them vestibular syndrome secondary to otitis due to pasteurellosis, toxoplasmosis, neoplasms, traumas, or diseases of the spine. Thus, a diagnosis of encephalitozoonosis was made in a rabbit through clinical and anatomopathological correlation using Ziehl-Neelsen and PAS stains.

Parasitic lesions in fish in the Federal District, Brazil

Brazil has a vast territory and favorable climatic conditions that allow the cultivation of freshwater fish. The intensification of the productive system can cause an imbalance in the aquatic environment as a result of poor water quality, nutritional deficiencies and infectious or parasitic diseases. The laboratory diagnosis and the determination of the prevalence of the main lesions, which occur in a certain region, help to guide towards the etiological diagnosis. This study aimed to describe the main parasitic lesions in fish in the routine at the Veterinary Pathology Laboratory of the Universidade de Brasília (UnB). All records of fish with parasitic lesions were recovered. Those cases in which there was an intralesional parasite and which presented lesions compatible with the parasite were included. The screening of ectoparasites was done by scraping the superficial mucus from the gills and skin. Organ sections were routinely processed for histopathologyand stained with hematoxylin-eosin (HE). In some records, parasitological identification was carried. The information was divided into the species of the affected fish, epidemiology of the outbreak (water quality, temperature, type of breeding), lesion distribution, etiology and macroscopic and microscopic changes. The resulting data was organized in absolute frequency and percentage. In this study, 22 cases were counted, between individual deaths and outbreaks, totaling 83 necropsied teleost fish. Inflammatory changes of parasitic origin were seen in 13/22 (59%) of the cases had lesions of parasitic origin. Skin lesions and gills were the most relevant. Macroscopically, red areas or spots of hyperemia or hemorrhage on the body surface were the most prevalent findings. Under microscopy, proliferative gill inflammation was the most relevant diagnosis. Pscinoodinium pilullare (Dinoflagellida), Ichthyophthirius multifiliis (Ciliophora), and monogenetic worms (Monogenea) were the main parasites found. Trichodina sp. (Ciliophora), Ichtyobodo sp. (Kinetoplastida), Amoebas, and Chilodonella sp. (Ciliophora), were seen in fewer numbers. An unusual case suggestive of parasitism by Eustrongylides sp. (Nematoda), in a pirá-brasília (Simpsonichthys boitonei), specimen has been recorded. The diagnoses were based on epidemiology, anatomopathological and parasitological findings. The most frequent and significantly lethal lesion in the study was proliferative and / or hyperplastic branchitis. Proliferative branchitis with lamellar epithelial hyperplasia (LEH) is a response to some type of chemical or mechanical injury to the gill epithelium in order to protect the capillaries from further damage or microbial penetration. However, it also increases the diffusion distance between capillaries and the environment and, therefore, hinders breathing, excretory and osmoregulatory functions. Protozoan infections and monogenetic worms in general generated LEH and skin lesions of mechanical origin. Secondary bacterial infection, were observed in this parasitosis determining the cause of death of the fish. Its pathogenicity comes from the lesions caused by the colonization and histophagy of the epithelial surfaces, mainly gills and skin, causing epithelial proliferation, lamellar cell fusion, epithelial cell degeneration and necrosis forming several ulcers in the epithelium after the release of mature trophies. The pathogenesis of parasitism by Eustrongylides spp. is considerable when there is a large quantity of these larvae that can cause intestinal obstruction, rupture and compression of viscera, of greater importance in small fish. The main parasites of necropsied fish were protozoa and monogenetic worms, which mainly cause branquitis and dermatitis in varying grades.(AU)

Toxoplasmose encefálica em um gambá-de-orelha-branca (Didelphis albiventris) / Encephalic toxoplasm in a white-eared possum (Didelphis albiventris)

Background: Toxoplasmosis is caused by Toxoplasma gondii, an obligate intracellular protozoan that belongs to the Apicomplexa phylum, coccidian subclass, and affects all warm-blooded animals. The role of opossums in the epidemiology of toxoplasmosis in Brazil is not fully understood, and there are very few descriptions of toxoplasmosis lesions in these animals. This report describes the anatomopathological, molecular and immunohistochemical findings of a case of encephalic toxoplasmosis in free-living white-eared possum (Didelphis albiventris). Case: A young male opossum (D. albiventris), was treated at the Veterinary Hospital of Wild Animals of the University of Brasília, Federal District. The animal was apathetic, uncoordinated, reluctant to move, and had an exposed proximal fracture in the left radius and ulna with laceration of muscles and adjacent tendinous structures. Amputation on the left thoracic limb was performed followed by analgesia and antibiotic therapy. The environment is frequented by other wild animals, and stray cats have access to the patio of the building. Twenty-five days after arriving at the hospital, the animal was found dead in its cage. After death, a necropsy was performed. Organ fragments from the abdominal cavity, thoracic and central nervous system were collected, processed routinely for histology and stained with hematoxylin and eosin. Macroscopic lesions in the central nervous system were not observed. On microscopy, the brain showed moderate random glial nodules throughout the neuropil associated with the presence of spherical to elongated parasitic cysts of about 20 µm, with a thin wall and with its interior full of bradyzoites, consistent with Toxoplasma gondii. There was also moderate fibrinoid necrosis and moderate multifocal lymphoplasmacytic infiltrate surrounding the blood vessels (perivascular cuffs) To investigate the etiology of the brain injury, brain sections were subjected to immunohistochemistry (IHC) and real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) technique for detection of T. gondii and Neospora caninum. Immunostaining for T. gondii in the cyst wall and in bradyzoites and negative immunostaining for N. caninum. qPCR was positive for T. gondii and negative for N. caninum. Discussion: Diagnosis of encephalic toxoplasmosis in a Didelphis albiventris was possible based on histopathological, immunohistochemical and molecular findings. The morphological classification of the brain lesion was important for the diagnosis. Brain toxoplasmosis in opossums usually results in focal areas of malacia on macroscopy and focally extensive necrosis on microscopy, neutrophil infiltrate, calcified necrotic material, and perivascular cuffs of lymphocytes and plasma cells. In the present case, similar histopathological lesions were noted, but no significant macroscopic changes were observed. The etiology here was defined by immunohistochemistry and qPCR, techniques proven to be useful and with good specificity for diagnosing toxoplasmosis in mammals. It is believed that the positive immunohistochemical and molecular result for Toxoplasma gondii together with the negative result for Neospora caninum were conclusive for the diagnosis. Thus, we demonstrate here a post mortem diagnosis of toxoplasmosis in a free-living synanthropic opossum and the use of anatomopathology, immunohistochemistry and real-time polymerase chain reaction as a diagnostic option for this disease in opossums.

Arytenoid chondritis in two calves / Condrite aritenóide em duas bezerras

Although, calf diphtheria and necrotic laryngitis are common infections in the oral cavitys soft tissues, arytenoid chondritis is addressed as a serious but rarely diagnosed complication in cattle. This paper aimed to describe clinical, laboratory, imaging, and pathological findings in two calves with arytenoid chondritis. A 2-month-old Jersey calf and a 3-month-old Girolando calf presented 40-days history of respiratory distress. In the former, oral endoscopy revealed enlarged and immobile arytenoids with major involvement of the left arytenoid, causing severe distortion and partial obstruction of the rima glottidis. In the latter, latero-lateral radiography of the head revealed radiolucent areas and thickening at the level of the larynx to the dorsal trachea. Pathological examination of one calf showed neutrophilic multifocal inflammatory infiltrate and areas of necrosis in the cricoarytenoid cartilage, surrounded by abscessation. Definitive diagnosis of arytenoid chondritis in these two calves was established on the basis of clinical, laboratory, imaging (endoscopy and radiography), and pathological findings. Daily and careful observation of the herds and the use of ancillary diagnostic methods allowed the early diagnosis of the disease, and accurate diagnosis can improve prognosis and increase treatment success rate.(AU)

Embora a difteria em bezerros e a laringite necrótica sejam infecções comuns nos tecidos moles da cavidade oral, a condrite aritenoide é considerada uma complicação grave, mas raramente diagnosticada em bovinos. Este trabalho tem como objetivo descrever os achados clínicos, laboratoriais, de imagem e patológicos em duas bezerras apresentando condrite aritenoide. Uma bezerra Jersey de dois meses de idade e uma bezerra Girolando de três meses de idade apresentavam dificuldades respiratórias por 40 dias. Na primeira, a endoscopia oral revelou aritenoides aumentadas e imóveis, com grande envolvimento da aritenoide esquerda, causando distorção grave e obstrução parcial de rima glottidis. Na segunda, a radiografia látero-lateral da cabeça revelou áreas radioluscentes e espessamento ao nível da laringe até a traqueia dorsal. O exame patológico de uma bezerra revelou infiltrado inflamatório multifocal neutrofílico e áreas de necrose na cartilagem cricoaritenóide, circundadas por abscessos. O diagnóstico definitivo de condrite aritenoide nessas duas bezerras foi estabelecido com base nos achados clínicos, laboratoriais, de imagem (endoscopia e radiografia) e patológicos. O monitoramento diário e minucioso dos rebanhos e o uso de métodos auxiliares de diagnóstico permitem o diagnóstico precoce da enfermidade, sendo que o diagnóstico preciso pode melhorar o prognóstico e aumentar a taxa de sucesso do tratamento.(AU)

Polioencefalomalacia em cordeiro neonato / Polioencephalomalacia in newborn lamb

Background: Perinatal mortality in sheep is determined by death between 60 days of gestation and 28 days postpartum. The starvation / hypothermia complex was characterized by lambs that walked, but did not feed. Polioencephalomalacia (PEM) is a descriptive term that indicates the morphological diagnosis for necrosis with softening of the gray matter in the brain. There are no data available in the literature relating PEM to the starvation / hypoglycemia / hypothermia complex in small ruminants. Thus, the objective of this work is to report a case of polyioencephalomalacia related to the starvation / hypoglycemia / hypothermia and septicemia complex in a newborn sheep. Case: A 5-day-old sheep female mixed race (Dorper x Santa Inês), 3.0 kg, from a rural property in the Federal District, was sent to the Veterinary Pathology Laboratory of the University of Brasília, for a necropsy. Organ fragments were collected and fixed in a 10 % buffered formalin solution, routinely processed for histology and stained with Hematoxylin and Eosin (HE). Additionally, swabs from the meninges, eyeballs and navels were collected for bacteriology. The animal came from twin pregnancies and was weak since birth. With three days of life, it presented apathy, weakness, difficulty in breastfeeding, difficulty in walking, and decubitus in a self-auscultation position. After 2 days of evolution the lamb died. Macroscopically, eyeball opacity, omphalophlebitis and congested brain were observed. Microscopically in the frontal cortex, the leptomeninge was markedly thickened by a large number of neutrophils and, to a lesser extent, macrophages, lymphocytes and plasmocytes, associated with aggregates of free eosinophilic rods or in the cytoplasm of macrophages. In the underlying gray substance, the neurópilo was observed containing...(AU)

Malignant edema in horse by Clostridium perfringens type A

Background: Malignant edema is one of the terms used to designate severe necrotizing syndromes in soft tissues by Clostridium spp. which are potentially fatal in farm animals. These species are responsible for myonecrosis, belonging to the group of histotoxic clostridia, and may also culminate in toxemia with the worsening of the lesions. These clostridia and their spores require a gateway such as wounds on mucous membranes or skin, which may occur due to shear, tail cut, injuries during delivery, castration or injections by contaminated needles. This report aims to describe the clinicalpathological findings of a case of malignant edema caused by Clostridium perfringens type A in an equine. Case: A female equine, undefined breed, used as traction animal, had a history of abdominal pain. According to the requisitioning veterinary, the tutor reused needles for medication. On palpation, a compact mass was noticed in the pelvic f lexure, as well as edema on the region of head and neck with crackling areas. After surgical intervention for compactation correction, the animal did not show anesthetic recovery and was submited to euthanasia. Tissue samples were collected, f ixed in 10% buffered formalin solution, routinely processed for histopathology and stained with hematoxylin and eosin and Gram stain. Samples of serous-sanguineous edema fluid and fragments of the abdominal muscles and neck were collected. The samples were kept under refrigeration and sent for microbiological culture. Necropsy showed the subcutaneous region of the pectoral was markedly gelatinous and yellowish (edema) and subcutaneous emphysema characterized by accumulation of serous-sanguineous fluid and gas bubbles. In microscopy, we verified fibrous-haemorrhagic...

Polioencefalomalacia em cordeiro neonato / Polioencephalomalacia in newborn lamb

Background: Perinatal mortality in sheep is determined by death between 60 days of gestation and 28 days postpartum. The starvation / hypothermia complex was characterized by lambs that walked, but did not feed. Polioencephalomalacia (PEM) is a descriptive term that indicates the morphological diagnosis for necrosis with softening of the gray matter in the brain. There are no data available in the literature relating PEM to the starvation / hypoglycemia / hypothermia complex in small ruminants. Thus, the objective of this work is to report a case of polyioencephalomalacia related to the starvation / hypoglycemia / hypothermia and septicemia complex in a newborn sheep. Case: A 5-day-old sheep female mixed race (Dorper x Santa Inês), 3.0 kg, from a rural property in the Federal District, was sent to the Veterinary Pathology Laboratory of the University of Brasília, for a necropsy. Organ fragments were collected and fixed in a 10 % buffered formalin solution, routinely processed for histology and stained with Hematoxylin and Eosin (HE). Additionally, swabs from the meninges, eyeballs and navels were collected for bacteriology. The animal came from twin pregnancies and was weak since birth. With three days of life, it presented apathy, weakness, difficulty in breastfeeding, difficulty in walking, and decubitus in a self-auscultation position. After 2 days of evolution the lamb died. Macroscopically, eyeball opacity, omphalophlebitis and congested brain were observed. Microscopically in the frontal cortex, the leptomeninge was markedly thickened by a large number of neutrophils and, to a lesser extent, macrophages, lymphocytes and plasmocytes, associated with aggregates of free eosinophilic rods or in the cytoplasm of macrophages. In the underlying gray substance, the neurópilo was observed containing...

Malignant edema in horse by Clostridium perfringens type A

Background: Malignant edema is one of the terms used to designate severe necrotizing syndromes in soft tissues by Clostridium spp. which are potentially fatal in farm animals. These species are responsible for myonecrosis, belonging to the group of histotoxic clostridia, and may also culminate in toxemia with the worsening of the lesions. These clostridia and their spores require a gateway such as wounds on mucous membranes or skin, which may occur due to shear, tail cut, injuries during delivery, castration or injections by contaminated needles. This report aims to describe the clinicalpathological findings of a case of malignant edema caused by Clostridium perfringens type A in an equine. Case: A female equine, undefined breed, used as traction animal, had a history of abdominal pain. According to the requisitioning veterinary, the tutor reused needles for medication. On palpation, a compact mass was noticed in the pelvic f lexure, as well as edema on the region of head and neck with crackling areas. After surgical intervention for compactation correction, the animal did not show anesthetic recovery and was submited to euthanasia. Tissue samples were collected, f ixed in 10% buffered formalin solution, routinely processed for histopathology and stained with hematoxylin and eosin and Gram stain. Samples of serous-sanguineous edema fluid and fragments of the abdominal muscles and neck were collected. The samples were kept under refrigeration and sent for microbiological culture. Necropsy showed the subcutaneous region of the pectoral was markedly gelatinous and yellowish (edema) and subcutaneous emphysema characterized by accumulation of serous-sanguineous fluid and gas bubbles. In microscopy, we verified fibrous-haemorrhagic...(AU)

Tubulopapillary carcinoma of the mammary gland in a mare

Background: Mammary gland neoplasia are often observed in bitches and cats, rarely in cows, goats, sheep, sows, andmares. Among the neoplasia that affect mares, breast tumors are rare, as they occur more frequently in older animals. Inhorses, mammary gland tumors occur more frequently in older animals. In this species there are reports of cases describingcarcinomas and adenocarcinomas and several subtypes. Mammary neoplasms in equines tend to be locally aggressive andpromote metastases to the regional lymph nodes and other organs, including the lungs, and may cause pleural effusion.The aim objective of the present case report was to describe the clinical-pathological and immunohistochemical findingsof a tubulopapillary carcinoma of the mammary gland in mare.Case: Was received a biopsy of a tumor mass of the mammary gland of a 15-year-old Quarter Horse mare. According tothe veterinarian, the mare presented an increase in volume with ulceration of the mammary gland three months before thebiopsy. Macroscopically, the mass was firm to the cut with white surface measuring 12x12 cm. The fragment was fixedin 10% formalin, routinely processed for histology, paraffin embedded, and stained with hematoxylin and eosin. Microscopically, we observed proliferation of epithelial neoplastic cells arranged in tubules and papillary projections, somewith two to three layers of cells. Neoplastic cells had oval, moderate and distinct cytoplasm. The nuclei were roundedwith dense chromatin and an apparent nucleolus. There were two figures of mitosis per field of high magnification. Proliferation of neoplastic cells invaded adjacent tissues, and in lymph vessels of the region, neoplastic cells were observedas well as inflammation in adjacent tissue. In addition, the breast fragment was submitted to the immunohistochemistrytechnique using anti-pancytokeratin and anti-vimentin antibody. In immunohistochemistry for pancytokeratin, there wasimmunoreactivity...

Tubulopapillary carcinoma of the mammary gland in a mare

Background: Mammary gland neoplasia are often observed in bitches and cats, rarely in cows, goats, sheep, sows, andmares. Among the neoplasia that affect mares, breast tumors are rare, as they occur more frequently in older animals. Inhorses, mammary gland tumors occur more frequently in older animals. In this species there are reports of cases describingcarcinomas and adenocarcinomas and several subtypes. Mammary neoplasms in equines tend to be locally aggressive andpromote metastases to the regional lymph nodes and other organs, including the lungs, and may cause pleural effusion.The aim objective of the present case report was to describe the clinical-pathological and immunohistochemical findingsof a tubulopapillary carcinoma of the mammary gland in mare.Case: Was received a biopsy of a tumor mass of the mammary gland of a 15-year-old Quarter Horse mare. According tothe veterinarian, the mare presented an increase in volume with ulceration of the mammary gland three months before thebiopsy. Macroscopically, the mass was firm to the cut with white surface measuring 12x12 cm. The fragment was fixedin 10% formalin, routinely processed for histology, paraffin embedded, and stained with hematoxylin and eosin. Microscopically, we observed proliferation of epithelial neoplastic cells arranged in tubules and papillary projections, somewith two to three layers of cells. Neoplastic cells had oval, moderate and distinct cytoplasm. The nuclei were roundedwith dense chromatin and an apparent nucleolus. There were two figures of mitosis per field of high magnification. Proliferation of neoplastic cells invaded adjacent tissues, and in lymph vessels of the region, neoplastic cells were observedas well as inflammation in adjacent tissue. In addition, the breast fragment was submitted to the immunohistochemistrytechnique using anti-pancytokeratin and anti-vimentin antibody. In immunohistochemistry for pancytokeratin, there wasimmunoreactivity...(AU)

Surto de intoxicação por monensina sódica em equinos associada a consumo de suplemento mineral à base de melaço de cana-de-açúcar / Outbreak of monensin sodium poisoning in horses associated with consumption of mineral supplement based on sugarcane molasses

Background: Sodium monensin is a molecule of the group of ionophores antibiotics (IAs) of the polyether carboxylic typeproduced from the fermentation of Streptomyces cinnamonensis. Cases of IA poisoning in animals usually occur accidentally. Fatal poisoning in horses, a non-target species and with particular sensitivity usually occurs by the consumption ofthese products from the toxic dose of 2-3 mg/kg. This report aims to describe the epidemiological and clinical-pathologicalaspects of an outbreak of ionophore antibiotic poisoning in horses due to the consumption of mineral supplementationindicated for ruminants based on sugarcane molasses.Case: Two horses were necropsied. During necropsy, fragments of various organs were collected and fixed in 10% bufferedformalin, routinely processed for histology and stained with hematoxylin and eosin. The information obtained from the animaltrainer was that 19 horses received approximately 25 kg of low moisture mixture based on sugarcane molasses, enriched withmacro and micro minerals, vitamins and additives containing 1000 mg of monensin/kg in the trough. One day after receivingthe product, five horses began to develop ataxia, reluctance to move, difficulty of accompanying the herd and arising. Out ofthe five, three died after three days of evolution, one after six days (equine 1) and another after 15 days (equine 2) [morbidity 26.31%]. At necropsy, diffuse pallor was observed in the gluteus medius, quadriceps femoris, semimembranosus, bicepsbrachii and deep pectoral muscles. Microscopically the muscle fibers were tumefied with hypereosinophilic sarcoplasmof homogeneous appearance and with loss of striations, pynotic or absent nuclei (necrosis). Multifocal areas of fibers withsarcoplasmic fragmentation were observed, with clusters of irregular eosinophilic debris, flake (floct necrosis) or granule(granular necrosis)...

Surto de intoxicação por monensina sódica em equinos associada a consumo de suplemento mineral à base de melaço de cana-de-açúcar / Outbreak of monensin sodium poisoning in horses associated with consumption of mineral supplement based on sugarcane molasses

Background: Sodium monensin is a molecule of the group of ionophores antibiotics (IAs) of the polyether carboxylic typeproduced from the fermentation of Streptomyces cinnamonensis. Cases of IA poisoning in animals usually occur accidentally. Fatal poisoning in horses, a non-target species and with particular sensitivity usually occurs by the consumption ofthese products from the toxic dose of 2-3 mg/kg. This report aims to describe the epidemiological and clinical-pathologicalaspects of an outbreak of ionophore antibiotic poisoning in horses due to the consumption of mineral supplementationindicated for ruminants based on sugarcane molasses.Case: Two horses were necropsied. During necropsy, fragments of various organs were collected and fixed in 10% bufferedformalin, routinely processed for histology and stained with hematoxylin and eosin. The information obtained from the animaltrainer was that 19 horses received approximately 25 kg of low moisture mixture based on sugarcane molasses, enriched withmacro and micro minerals, vitamins and additives containing 1000 mg of monensin/kg in the trough. One day after receivingthe product, five horses began to develop ataxia, reluctance to move, difficulty of accompanying the herd and arising. Out ofthe five, three died after three days of evolution, one after six days (equine 1) and another after 15 days (equine 2) [morbidity 26.31%]. At necropsy, diffuse pallor was observed in the gluteus medius, quadriceps femoris, semimembranosus, bicepsbrachii and deep pectoral muscles. Microscopically the muscle fibers were tumefied with hypereosinophilic sarcoplasmof homogeneous appearance and with loss of striations, pynotic or absent nuclei (necrosis). Multifocal areas of fibers withsarcoplasmic fragmentation were observed, with clusters of irregular eosinophilic debris, flake (floct necrosis) or granule(granular necrosis)... (AU)

Isolamento e caracterização molecular de Dichelobacter nodosus isolados de ovinos no estado da Bahia, Brasil / Isolation and molecular characterization of Dichelobacter nodosus isolated from sheep in Bahia, Brazil

Background: Pododermatitis or footrot is an infectious disease that affects the hoof and interdigital tissue of sheep causing lameness. The disease is caused by the interaction of the agent Dichelobacter nodosus and symbiotic bacteria in the complex environment of the epidermal tissues of the hoof and host immune system. D. nodosus is not able to invadehealthy hooves, so the infection is preceded by colonization of the interdigital skin by Fuso bacterium necrophorum. The aim of this research was to perform the isolation andcharacterization of D. nodosus in sheep farms of different municipalities of Bahia, obtaining the serogroups present in each herd.Materials, Methods & Results: The study was carried out in nine sheep farms from eight municipalities in the state of Bahia. All farms presented history of foot diseases. A total of 620 animals were observed, 140 of which were examined for lameness. To collect the contents of the lesions, sterile swabs were introduced into tubes containing sterile Thorley transport medium under refrigeration at 8°C and sent for laboratory analysis. Subsequently, each swab collected was seeded in two Petri dishes containing 4% hoof agar medium and incubated in anaerobic at 37°C for 96 hours. The purified samples were seeded on 2% hoof agar and incubated under the same conditions as above. The colonies were identified by the morphological characteristic and Gram staining. The DNA was extracted and stored at -20°C until its use in PCR, for identification and classification of D. nodosus in serogroups (A-I). In the nine farms visited were found animals with clinical signs of infectious pododermatitis. After processing, there was success of isolation in 39 samples (41%), confirming the presence of D. nodosus in all municipalities evaluated.[...]