Vacuolização neuronal e degeneração espinocerebelar em filhote de Rottweiler / Neuronal vacuolation and spinocerebellar degeneration in a Rottweiller puppy

Background: Spinocerebellar degenerations and neuronal vacuolations are alterations characterized by the formation of vacuoles in the nervous tissue, commonly called status spongiosus. This condition occurs in young Rottweiler dogs causing a disease called Neuronal Vacuolation and Spinocerebellar Degeneration. Clinically, it presents with ataxia of the pelvic limbs, which evolves to generalized ataxia, tetraparesis, and laryngeal paralysis. Histologically, spongiform and vacuolar alterations of the neuropil and neurons are highlighted. This reports a case of neuronal vacuolation and spinocerebellar degeneration in a Rottweiler puppy. Case: Necropsy was performed on the cadaver of a 5-month-old Rottweiler bitch that had been presenting with ataxia for approximately 1 month, in addition to dyspnea, pulmonary crepitations, and microphthalmia. Macroscopic evaluation revealed pale ocular and oral mucosae; marked gastric dilatation and abdominal distension; pulmonary hemorrhage and edema; hepatosplenomegaly; fatty degeneration of the liver; and congestion of meningeal blood vessels. Microscopically, histological evaluation of the spinal cord showed an increase in gray matter cellularity with marked presence of oligodendrocytes and microglia cells; moderate to severe multifocal intracytoplasmic micro- and macrovacuoles with displacement of the neurons' nuclei to the periphery of the cell; central chromatolysis of the neurons adjacent to neurons affected by vacuolation; and mild multifocal necrosis associated with mild multifocal neuronophagia. The white matter exhibited discrete digestion chambers, in addition to marked diffuse congestion of the leptomeninges. In the cerebellum, neurons in the nerve nuclei (emboliform, globose, and fastigial) showed moderate multifocal vacuoles in the cytoplasm, whereas adjacent neurons showed central chromatolysis, necrosis, and mild neuronophagia. Additional histological findings included lymphoid hyperplasia, fatty degeneration of the liver, pulmonary edema, and pulmonary hemorrhage. Discussion: Spongiform and degenerative encephalopathies are diseases recognized worldwide, mainly in cattle and sheep. However, the identification of these changes in new species has led to the need for further investigations. In dogs, the first reports occurred in 1995 and 1997 in Rottweiler animals. This disease affects young dogs, and although its pathogenesis is not completely known, it is believed to be associated with a genetic mutation in the RAB3GAP1 gene. Clinically, it is associated with clinical neurological manifestations, including progressive ataxia of the pelvic limbs, changes in spinal reflex, disordered proprioceptive reactions, laryngeal paralysis, as well as behavioral and gait alterations. In the clinical evaluation, leukoencephalomyelopathy and neuroaxonal dystrophy should be diseases considered as possible differential diagnoses, as they present with similar alterations. However, in histological evaluation, the exclusion of both is basically due to the absence of neuronal vacuolization. Unfortunately, the definitive diagnosis is only made post mortem, through a histopathological evaluation of the nervous tissue. Because it is a disease whose pathogenesis is little known and which shows signs of having a genetic character, histopathological examination for diagnostic purposes in young animals with neurological signs is of great importance.

Listeriosis outbreak in sheep raised in feedlots in the Southern Region of Rio Grande do Sul state, Brazil

Background: A listeriosis outbreak in a sheep fattening feedlot in the Southern Region of Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazilis described. This disease is caused by Listeria monocytogenes and represents a risk to public health since it affects notonly ruminants but also humans. This agent is widely spread in the environment, such as in the soil and water. It is alsofound in decaying vegetable matter and the feces and fluids of domestic animals. The aim of this study was to describe alisteriosis outbreak in sheep raised in feedlots, its epidemiology, and to establish the importance of this disease in this typeof sheep management system, evaluate the possible sources of infection, and suggest ways to control it.Cases: Sheep were kept in a 2-sector shed, one with east solar orientation and the other with west solar orientation, thelatter with free access to domestic birds. Sheep were fed silage and concentrate. Seven sheep were affected, 5 died and 2recovered. Clinically, the sheep displayed loss of balance, excessive drooling, and tremors; one exhibited circling, headdeviation, apathy, nystagmus, lateral recumbency, paddling, and labored breathing. At necropsy, macroscopic lesions werenot found, and histologically several micro-abscesses and perivascular cuffs with lymphocytes, macrophages, and neutrophils were present in the brain stem. Listeria monocytogenes suspected colonies were observed in the microbiologicalculture, and the bacteria was identified by biochemical analysis. The immunohistochemistry test in brain stem sectionswas positive for the antibody BD DifcoTM Listeria O Antiserum Poly Serotypes 1 and 4.Discussion: A listeriosis outbreak in a feedlot sheep was confirmed through epidemiological findings, histological lesions,bacterial culture, and immunohistochemistry analysis. This infection is frequent...

Listeriosis outbreak in sheep raised in feedlots in the Southern Region of Rio Grande do Sul state, Brazil

Background: A listeriosis outbreak in a sheep fattening feedlot in the Southern Region of Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazilis described. This disease is caused by Listeria monocytogenes and represents a risk to public health since it affects notonly ruminants but also humans. This agent is widely spread in the environment, such as in the soil and water. It is alsofound in decaying vegetable matter and the feces and fluids of domestic animals. The aim of this study was to describe alisteriosis outbreak in sheep raised in feedlots, its epidemiology, and to establish the importance of this disease in this typeof sheep management system, evaluate the possible sources of infection, and suggest ways to control it.Cases: Sheep were kept in a 2-sector shed, one with east solar orientation and the other with west solar orientation, thelatter with free access to domestic birds. Sheep were fed silage and concentrate. Seven sheep were affected, 5 died and 2recovered. Clinically, the sheep displayed loss of balance, excessive drooling, and tremors; one exhibited circling, headdeviation, apathy, nystagmus, lateral recumbency, paddling, and labored breathing. At necropsy, macroscopic lesions werenot found, and histologically several micro-abscesses and perivascular cuffs with lymphocytes, macrophages, and neutrophils were present in the brain stem. Listeria monocytogenes suspected colonies were observed in the microbiologicalculture, and the bacteria was identified by biochemical analysis. The immunohistochemistry test in brain stem sectionswas positive for the antibody BD DifcoTM Listeria O Antiserum Poly Serotypes 1 and 4.Discussion: A listeriosis outbreak in a feedlot sheep was confirmed through epidemiological findings, histological lesions,bacterial culture, and immunohistochemistry analysis. This infection is frequent...(AU)

Meningioma intracraniano em cão - tratamento com radioterapia / Intracranial meningioma in a dog - treatment with radiotherapy

Background: The most common primary brain neoplasm is meningioma. Dolichocephalic breeds are predisposed and there is no sexual predilection. Clinical signs depend on the location and size of the tumor and have a progressive course. Primary treatement includes surgery, radiotherapy or both. This study aimed to describe the treatment of a dog with suspected intracranial meningioma with definitive radiotherapy, which resulted in significant clinical improvement and prolonged survival. Case: A 9-year-old Shetland Shepherd bitch was diagnosed with a head tilt to the left side that progressed over a few weeks. She previously received corticosteroid therapy, which resulted a clinical improvement that worsened after treatment was discontinued. Computed tomography revealed an extra-axial brain mass in the caudal fossa, lateralized to the right, welldelimited, and measuring approximately 1.5 × 1.4 × 1.7 cm, suggestive of intracranial meningioma. The patient was treated with radiotherapy using Cobalt-60 equipment, with 18 daily fractions of 2.5 Gy at a total dose of 45 Gy using parallel and opposite technique fields. A new tomography performed 30 days after treatment showed a remission of 85% of the initial brain mass measuring approximately 0.9 × 1.0 × 0.5 cm, as well as complete resolution of the clinical signs initially presented. After 14 months, the patient presented with signs of lethargy and ataxia and was medicated with hydroxyurea at a dose of 50 mg/kg 3 times a week and corticosteroid therapy. However, the patient's neurological condition deteriorated, and she was subjected to reirradiation using the same protocol used previously, which resulted in clinical improvement and a 54% reduction in tumor volume on magnetic resonance. As a late side effect, only permanent alopecia in the irradiated region was observed. The patient died of disease 330 days after the second course of radiotherapy, with a total survival time of 1087 days. Discussion: Meningiomas are extra-axial neoplasms of the central nervous system that grow inside the dura mater. The literature shows that meningiomas are more common in dolichocephalic races with a mean age of 9 years, which supports our findings. Meningiomas most commonly affect the cortical thalamus and cerebellopontine region in dogs, which are normally associated with vestibular symptoms, as seen in this case. Diencephalic damage can result in vestibular signals since the thalamus functions as a relay station for vestibular afferent stimuli that are relayed to the cerebral cortex. In addition to the vestibular syndrome, common clinical signs associated with meningiomas in dogs include seizures, behavioral changes, and walking in circles, which are frequently misinterpreted due to tumor-induced side effects, such as cerebral edema, obstructive hydrocephalus, and cerebral hernia. Advanced imaging techniques should be used to diagnose intracranial neoplasms. In this case, computed tomography was critical for diagnosis and treatment planning. Meningioma treatment may comprise palliative measures, surgery, and radiotherapy. Radiotherapy as a single treatment can improve the quality of life with a decrease in clinical signs and a median survival time of approximately 250-536 days, as reported in the literature. Hydroxyurea can be a therapeutic option in inoperable cases and for patients with clinical limitations to undergo successive anesthesia during radiotherapy. Its most serious side effect is progressive myelosuppression. It can cause temporary partial tumor remission and improvement in clinical signs. As previously stated, radiotherapy can be an effective primary treatment option for treating intracranial meningiomas in dogs, with significant improvement in neurological clinical signs and mild side effects.

Compressive lesions in the central nervous system of buffaloes / Lesões compressivas no sistema nervoso central de bubalinos

This study describes, through a retrospective study, the epidemiological and clinical-pathological findings of compression in the central nervous system (CNS) of buffaloes. The study includes observations made in 15 animals from 1998 to 2021 by reviewing the clinical records of animals with compressive injuries of the CNS treated at the Veterinary Hospital of the Veterinary Medicine Institute of the Federal University of Pará. The animals treated with clinical signs compatible with CNS compressive lesions were subjected to general and specific clinical examinations of the nervous system. Blood samples were collected from four animals for complete blood counts, and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) samples were collected from three animals for physical evaluation. Thirteen animals were necropsied. The age range of the affected animals ranged from four months to 11 years of age, with a greater frequency over age 12 months (80%, 13/15). The most affected vertebral segment was between T3 and L3 (60%, 9/15), followed by brain injury (20%, 3/15), the L4-S2 segment (13.3%, 2/15) and the C1-C5 segment (6.7%, 1/15). The clinical findings varied according to the location of the lesion. The necropsy findings revealed paraypophyseal abscess in the brainstem and vertebral body, subarachnoid hematoma, lymphoma and vertebral fractures. The performance of a thorough clinical examination of the CNS combined with the necropsy findings was important to characterize the clinical picture and to locate the cause and the affected CNS segments in the buffaloes studied. It is important to include CNS compressive lesions among the neurological diseases of buffaloes.

Esse trabalho descreve, através de estudo retrospectivo, os achados epidemiológicos e clínico-patológicos de compressão no sistema nervoso central (SNC) de bubalinos. O estudo compreendeu as observações realizadas em 15 animais, durante os anos de 1998 a 2021, por meio da revisão dos arquivos de fichas clínicas de animais com lesões compressivas no SNC atendidos pelo Hospital Veterinário do Instituto de Medicina Veterinária da Universidade Federal do Pará. Os animais atendidos com sinais clínicos compatíveis com lesões compressivas no SNC foram submetidos a exames clínicos geral e específico do sistema nervoso. Foram coletadas amostras de sangue de quatro animais para realização de hemograma e amostras de líquido cefalorraquidiano (LCR) de três animais para avaliação física. Foram necropsiados 13 animais. A faixa etária dos animais acometidos variou de quatro meses a 11 anos de idade, com maior frequência na faixa acima de 12 meses (80%, 13/15). O segmento vertebral mais acometido foi entre T3-L3 (60%, 9/15), seguida por lesão no encéfalo (20%, 3/15), pelo segmento L4-S2 (13,3%, 2/15) e pelo segmento C1-C5 (6,7%, 1/15). Os achados clínicos variaram de acordo com a localização da lesão. Os achados de necropsia revelaram abscesso parahipofisário, no tronco encefálico e no corpo da vértebra, hematoma subaracnoidea, linfoma e fraturas vertebrais. A realização de um minucioso exame clínico do SNC associado aos achados de necropsia foram importantes para caracterizar o quadro clínico e localizar a causa e os seguimentos acometidos do SNC nos búfalos estudados. Torna-se importante incluir as lesões compressivas do SNC entre as enfermidades neurológicas dos bubalinos.

Compressive lesions in the central nervous system of cattle: a retrospective study of 50 cases in the Amazon biome / Lesões compressivas no sistema nervoso central de bovinos: um estudo retrospectivo de 50 casos no bioma amazônico

The present study gathered epidemiological and clinical-pathological information about cattle with compressive lesions in the central nervous system (CNS). The retrospective study included observations made in 50 cattle from 1998 to 2021 by reviewing the clinical records of animals with compressive lesions in the CNS treated at the Veterinary Hospital of the Veterinary Medicine Institute of the Federal University of Pará. The animals had clinical signs and were subjected to general and specific clinical examination of the nervous system. Blood samples were collected from 13 animals for complete blood counts, and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) samples were collected from four animals for physical evaluation. Twenty-nine cattle underwent necropsy. The most affected sites were the T3-L3 (46%, 23/50), C1-C5 (22%, 11/50), C6-T2 (14%, 7/50), sacrococcygeal vertebrae, (4%, 2/50), L4-S2 (2%, 1/50), brain (8%, 4/50) and cerebellum (4%, 2/50). The age of the affected cattle ranged from 20 days to 16 years, with a higher occurrence in animals younger than 12 months (56%, 28/50). More Females were affected (58%, 29/50) than males (42%, 21/50). The clinical signs varied according to the location of the lesion and were mainly represented by ataxia, paresis or paralysis of the limbs, inability to stand and walk, postural changes, hyperesthesia in the extremities, and loss of skin sensitivity at the location of the lesion. The necropsy findings revealed changes such as abscesses in the vertebral body; intervertebral space in the medullary canal, pituitary and cerebellum; granuloma in the arch of the vertebra; fractures of the body of the vertebrae; subarachnoid haematoma; congenital bone alteration causing spinal cord compression; and spondylitis. Detailed anamnesis and clinical examination of the CNS, associated with necropsy findings, were important to determine the cause of the disease, correlate with the clinical picture and locate the affected segments of the CNS in the cattle. It is important to include these diseases in the list of differential diagnoses in cattle with nervous symptoms.

O presente trabalho reúne informações epidemiológicas e clínicopatológicas de bovinos com lesões compressivas no sistema nervoso central (SNC). O estudo retrospectivo compreendeu as observações realizadas em 50 bovinos durante os anos de 1998 a 2021, por meio da revisão dos arquivos de fichas clínicas de animais com lesões compressivas no SNC atendidos pelo Hospital Veterinário do Instituto de Medicina Veterinária da Universidade Federal do Pará. Os animais atendidos com sinais clínicos foram submetidos a exame clínico geral e específico do sistema nervoso. Foram coletadas amostras de sangue de 13 animais para realização de hemograma e amostras de líquido cefalorraquidiano de quatro animais para avaliação física. Foram submetidos à necropsia 29 bovinos. Os locais mais acometidos foram as vértebras T3-L3 (46%, 23/50), C1-C5 (22%, 11/50), C6-T2 (14%, 7/50), sacrococcígea (4%, 2/50) e L4-S2 (2%, 1/50); cérebro (8%, 4/50) e cerebelo (4%, 2/50). A idade dos bovinos afetados variou de 20 dias a 16 anos, com maior ocorrência em animais com menos de 12 meses (56%, 28/50). As fêmeas foram mais acometidas (58%, 29/50) do que os machos (42%, 21/50). Os sinais clínicos variaram de acordo com a localização da lesão e foram representados principalmente por ataxia, paresia ou paralisia dos membros, incapacidade de se levantar e de ficar em estação, alterações posturais, hiperestesia nas extremidades, além de perda da sensibilidade cutânea relacionada com a localização da lesão. Os achados de necropsia revelaram alterações como abscessos no corpo vertebral, no espaço intervertebral, no canal medular, para-hipofisário e no cerebelo; granuloma no arco da vértebra, fraturas do corpo das vértebras; hematoma subaracnoide; alteração óssea congênita causando compressão medular e espondilite. Anamnese detalhada e exame clínico do SNC, associados aos achados de necropsia foram importantes para determinar a causa da doença, correlacionar com o quadro clínico e localizar os segmentos acometidos do SNC dos bovinos. Torna-se importante incluir estas enfermidades na lista de diagnósticos diferenciais em bovinos que apresentem sintomatologia nervosa.

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.

Spina bifida, diplomyelia and multiple malformations in a Texel lamb / Espinha bífida, diplomielia e múltiplas malformações em um cordeiro Texel

This report described the clinical and pathological aspects of open spina bifida and diplomyelia along with multiple congenital malformations in a Texel lamb. Clinically, paresis of the thoracic limbs, paralysis of the pelvic limbs and a cutaneous opening in the lumbosacral region were observed. At necropsy, there was a focally extensive disruption of the skin associated with an absence of the dorsal portions of the lumbosacral vertebrae. Additionally, diplomyelia of the lumbar segment, mild hydromyelia of thoracic segment, and moderate communicating hydrocephalus of the lateral and third ventricles were noted. Possible viral etiologies (bovine viral diarrhea virus, bluetongue virus, and Schmallemberg virus) were not detected by RT-PCR, and toxic plants were not identified. Therefore, a possible genetic cause may not be discarded.

Este trabalho descreve os aspectos clínicos e patológicos de um caso de espinha bífida aberta e diplomielia, além de múltiplas malformações, em um cordeiro Texel. Clinicamente, este apresentava paresia de membros torácicos, paralisia dos membros pélvicos e uma abertura cutânea na região lombossacral desde o nascimento. À necropsia, visualizou-se solução de continuidade na pele e ausência das porções dorsais das vértebras lombossacrais. Além disso, observou-se diplomielia em segmento lombar, hidromielia discreta de segmento torácico e hidrocefalia comunicante moderada de ventrículos laterais e terceiro ventrículo. Possíveis etiologias virais (vírus da diarreia viral bovina, vírus da língua azul e Schmallemberg virus) não foram detectadas através de RT-PCR, e possíveis plantas tóxicas não foram identificadas. Portanto, uma causa genética não pode ser descartada.

Spina bifida, diplomyelia and multiple malformations in a Texel lamb / Espinha bífida, diplomielia e múltiplas malformações em um cordeiro Texel

ABSTRACT: This report described the clinical and pathological aspects of open spina bifida and diplomyelia along with multiple congenital malformations in a Texel lamb. Clinically, paresis of the thoracic limbs, paralysis of the pelvic limbs and a cutaneous opening in the lumbosacral region were observed. At necropsy, there was a focally extensive disruption of the skin associated with an absence of the dorsal portions of the lumbosacral vertebrae. Additionally, diplomyelia of the lumbar segment, mild hydromyelia of thoracic segment, and moderate communicating hydrocephalus of the lateral and third ventricles were noted. Possible viral etiologies (bovine viral diarrhea virus, bluetongue virus, and Schmallemberg virus) were not detected by RT-PCR, and toxic plants were not identified. Therefore, a possible genetic cause may not be discarded.

RESUMO: Este trabalho descreve os aspectos clínicos e patológicos de um caso de espinha bífida aberta e diplomielia, além de múltiplas malformações, em um cordeiro Texel. Clinicamente, este apresentava paresia de membros torácicos, paralisia dos membros pélvicos e uma abertura cutânea na região lombossacral desde o nascimento. À necropsia, visualizou-se solução de continuidade na pele e ausência das porções dorsais das vértebras lombossacrais. Além disso, observou-se diplomielia em segmento lombar, hidromielia discreta de segmento torácico e hidrocefalia comunicante moderada de ventrículos laterais e terceiro ventrículo. Possíveis etiologias virais (vírus da diarreia viral bovina, vírus da língua azul e Schmallemberg virus) não foram detectadas através de RT-PCR, e possíveis plantas tóxicas não foram identificadas. Portanto, uma causa genética não pode ser descartada.

Mieloencefalite protozoária equina: relato de caso / Equine protozoal myeloencephalitis: case report

A Mieloencefalite Protozoária Equina (EPM) é uma doença infecciosa que possui como principal agente o protozoário Sarcocystis neurona. O parasita acomete o sistema nervoso central de equinos podendo causar alterações neurológicas como ataxia, paresia, atrofia muscular e alterações de estado mental. Com ampla distribuição no território nacional, é importante que esta afecção faça parte do diagnóstico diferencial em animais da espécie equina, uma vez que equinos portadores desta afecção podem apresentar desde sinais discretos, como ligeira queda no desempenho, a graves sinais neurológicos. Para isso, o médico veterinário deve compreender suas características e os métodos diagnósticos eficazes para sua identificação. Uma égua da raça Brasileiro de Hipismo, de cinco anos de idade, foi atendida na cidade de Belo Horizonte, em Minas Gerais, com histórico de atrofia na região lombar e garupa. Ainda, foi relatada a presença de gambás na fazenda em que vivia o animal. No exame neurológico foi detectada incoordenação motora de grau 2. O teste SAG ELISA foi realizado, e obtido resultado positivo. Todos os achados e o resultado positivo no teste corroboram o diagnóstico da EPM, o que levou ao tratamento preconizado, e a visível melhora clínica. O objetivo desse trabalho é relatar um caso clínico de EPM em uma égua no município de Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brasil, levando em consideração a importância do conhecimento dos aspectos epidemiológicos, clínicos, diagnósticos e terapêuticos da doença.

Equine Protozoal Myeloencephalitis (EPM) is an infectious disease whose main agent is the protozoan Sarcocystis neurona. The parasite affects the central nervous system of horses and can cause neurological alterations like ataxia, paresis, muscle atrophy and changes in mental status. With wide distribution in the national territory, it is important that this disease is part of the differential diagnosis in animals of equine species, since equines with this disease can present from discrete signs, such as a slight decrease in performance, to serious neurological signs. That is why the veterinarian must understand its characteristics and effective diagnostic methods for its identification. A five-year-old Brazilian Sport Horse mare was attended in the city of Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, with a history of atrophy in the lumbar region and rump. Also, the presence of opossums on the farm where the animal lived was reported. In neurological examination, grade 2 motor incoordination was detected. The SAG ELISA test was performed, and a positive result was obtained. All findings and the positive test result corroborate the diagnosis of EPM, which led to the recommended treatment, and visible clinical improvement. The aim of this paper is to report a clinical case of EPM in a mare in the city of Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil, taking into account the importance of knowledge of the epidemiological, clinical, diagnostic and therapeutic aspects of disease.

Mieloencefalite protozoária equina: relato de caso / Equine protozoal myeloencephalitis: case report

A Mieloencefalite Protozoária Equina (EPM) é uma doença infecciosa que possui como principal agente o protozoário Sarcocystis neurona. O parasita acomete o sistema nervoso central de equinos podendo causar alterações neurológicas como ataxia, paresia, atrofia muscular e alterações de estado mental. Com ampla distribuição no território nacional, é importante que esta afecção faça parte do diagnóstico diferencial em animais da espécie equina, uma vez que equinos portadores desta afecção podem apresentar desde sinais discretos, como ligeira queda no desempenho, a graves sinais neurológicos. Para isso, o médico veterinário deve compreender suas características e os métodos diagnósticos eficazes para sua identificação. Uma égua da raça Brasileiro de Hipismo, de cinco anos de idade, foi atendida na cidade de Belo Horizonte, em Minas Gerais, com histórico de atrofia na região lombar e garupa. Ainda, foi relatada a presença de gambás na fazenda em que vivia o animal. No exame neurológico foi detectada incoordenação motora de grau 2. O teste SAG ELISA foi realizado, e obtido resultado positivo. Todos os achados e o resultado positivo no teste corroboram o diagnóstico da EPM, o que levou ao tratamento preconizado, e a visível melhora clínica. O objetivo desse trabalho é relatar um caso clínico de EPM em uma égua no município de Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brasil, levando em consideração a importância do conhecimento dos aspectos epidemiológicos, clínicos, diagnósticos e terapêuticos da doença.(AU)

Equine Protozoal Myeloencephalitis (EPM) is an infectious disease whose main agent is the protozoan Sarcocystis neurona. The parasite affects the central nervous system of horses and can cause neurological alterations like ataxia, paresis, muscle atrophy and changes in mental status. With wide distribution in the national territory, it is important that this disease is part of the differential diagnosis in animals of equine species, since equines with this disease can present from discrete signs, such as a slight decrease in performance, to serious neurological signs. That is why the veterinarian must understand its characteristics and effective diagnostic methods for its identification. A five-year-old Brazilian Sport Horse mare was attended in the city of Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, with a history of atrophy in the lumbar region and rump. Also, the presence of opossums on the farm where the animal lived was reported. In neurological examination, grade 2 motor incoordination was detected. The SAG ELISA test was performed, and a positive result was obtained. All findings and the positive test result corroborate the diagnosis of EPM, which led to the recommended treatment, and visible clinical improvement. The aim of this paper is to report a clinical case of EPM in a mare in the city of Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil, taking into account the importance of knowledge of the epidemiological, clinical, diagnostic and therapeutic aspects of disease.(AU)

Spina bifida, diplomyelia and multiple malformations in a Texel lamb / Espinha bífida, diplomielia e múltiplas malformações em um cordeiro Texel

This report described the clinical and pathological aspects of open spina bifida and diplomyelia along with multiple congenital malformations in a Texel lamb. Clinically, paresis of the thoracic limbs, paralysis of the pelvic limbs and a cutaneous opening in the lumbosacral region were observed. At necropsy, there was a focally extensive disruption of the skin associated with an absence of the dorsal portions of the lumbosacral vertebrae. Additionally, diplomyelia of the lumbar segment, mild hydromyelia of thoracic segment, and moderate communicating hydrocephalus of the lateral and third ventricles were noted. Possible viral etiologies (bovine viral diarrhea virus, bluetongue virus, and Schmallemberg virus) were not detected by RT-PCR, and toxic plants were not identified. Therefore, a possible genetic cause may not be discarded.(AU)

Este trabalho descreve os aspectos clínicos e patológicos de um caso de espinha bífida aberta e diplomielia, além de múltiplas malformações, em um cordeiro Texel. Clinicamente, este apresentava paresia de membros torácicos, paralisia dos membros pélvicos e uma abertura cutânea na região lombossacral desde o nascimento. À necropsia, visualizou-se solução de continuidade na pele e ausência das porções dorsais das vértebras lombossacrais. Além disso, observou-se diplomielia em segmento lombar, hidromielia discreta de segmento torácico e hidrocefalia comunicante moderada de ventrículos laterais e terceiro ventrículo. Possíveis etiologias virais (vírus da diarreia viral bovina, vírus da língua azul e Schmallemberg virus) não foram detectadas através de RT-PCR, e possíveis plantas tóxicas não foram identificadas. Portanto, uma causa genética não pode ser descartada.(AU)

Cats with central nervous system cryptococcosis

Background: Cryptococcosis is a serious fungal infection contracted by humans and animals, and the most common systemic mycosis found in cats. This disease is often contracted through inhalation of fungal propagules. The Central Nervous System (CNS) may be infected through local extension (nasal and frontal sinuses) or via hematogenous route. Similarly to CNS bacterial infection, the clinical signs of neurological dysfunction may be attributed to mass effect (gelatinous mass of fungal microorganisms and fungal granuloma formation) or to a more disseminated inflammatory response to invading microorganisms. The objective of this study is to report one case of a patient with cryptococcal granulomas in the central nervous system and one case of a patient with neurological signs associated to a cryptococcosis. Cases: Case 1. A 3-year-old male mixed breed feline was admitted to a veterinary clinic, located in Porto Alegre, RS, Southern Brazil. The patient presented unsourced behavioral changes, vestibular ataxia and dysphagia caused by inability of coordination. The following tests were performed: complete blood count test, biochemical analysis, computed tomography scan (CT scan), fluid analysis, radiography and toxoplasmosis test. The following medicine were administrated for treatment: fluconazole, dexamethasone, mannitol, phenobarbital and levetiracetam. Fluid therapy was also part of the treatment. Immediately after death, the cat was submitted for necropsy, and a fungal granulomatous meningoencephalomyelitis was diagnosed. Cryptococcus sp. was identified as the causal agent through pathological findings, fungal culture and PCR analysis. Case 2. One year later, another feline was admitted to the same clinic (a 2-year-old female mixed breed) presenting hypersalivation, tremors and excessive vocalization. The patient had contact with the deceased feline. The following tests were performed: complete blood count...

Cats with central nervous system cryptococcosis

Background: Cryptococcosis is a serious fungal infection contracted by humans and animals, and the most common systemic mycosis found in cats. This disease is often contracted through inhalation of fungal propagules. The Central Nervous System (CNS) may be infected through local extension (nasal and frontal sinuses) or via hematogenous route. Similarly to CNS bacterial infection, the clinical signs of neurological dysfunction may be attributed to mass effect (gelatinous mass of fungal microorganisms and fungal granuloma formation) or to a more disseminated inflammatory response to invading microorganisms. The objective of this study is to report one case of a patient with cryptococcal granulomas in the central nervous system and one case of a patient with neurological signs associated to a cryptococcosis. Cases: Case 1. A 3-year-old male mixed breed feline was admitted to a veterinary clinic, located in Porto Alegre, RS, Southern Brazil. The patient presented unsourced behavioral changes, vestibular ataxia and dysphagia caused by inability of coordination. The following tests were performed: complete blood count test, biochemical analysis, computed tomography scan (CT scan), fluid analysis, radiography and toxoplasmosis test. The following medicine were administrated for treatment: fluconazole, dexamethasone, mannitol, phenobarbital and levetiracetam. Fluid therapy was also part of the treatment. Immediately after death, the cat was submitted for necropsy, and a fungal granulomatous meningoencephalomyelitis was diagnosed. Cryptococcus sp. was identified as the causal agent through pathological findings, fungal culture and PCR analysis. Case 2. One year later, another feline was admitted to the same clinic (a 2-year-old female mixed breed) presenting hypersalivation, tremors and excessive vocalization. The patient had contact with the deceased feline. The following tests were performed: complete blood count...(AU)

Meningioma microcístico com metástase pulmonar em canino: relato de caso / Microcystic meningioma with pulmonary metastasis in canine: case report

Meningiomas são os principais tumores primários do sistema nervoso central (SNC) que afetam cães e gatos. Na maioria dos casos, são neoplasias benignas, geralmente expansivas, causando compressão do SNC, e raramente fazem metástase para outros órgãos. O presente trabalho tem como objetivo relatar a ocorrência de um meningioma microcístico com metástase pulmonar em um canino de 11 anos de idade, com sinais clínicos de andar cambaleante, compressão da cabeça contra objetos, agitação, salivação e agressividade. Na necropsia, foram observadas, no encéfalo, massas bem delimitadas pardo-avermelhadas, firmes, de aspecto granular, localizadas no córtex parietal e nos núcleos da base. Inúmeras micronodulações de aspecto semelhante foram observadas no pulmão. Histologicamente observaram-se nódulos formados por células neoplásicas fusiformes, com núcleos grandes e alongados e nucléolos evidentes, dispostas de forma frouxa, formando vacúolos e microcistos. À imuno-histoquímica, o meningioma apresentou marcação fortemente positiva para citoqueratina e negativa para vimentina. Por meio da histopatologia e da imuno-histoquímica, foi possível estabelecer a classificação histológica de meningioma microcístico, bem como diferenciá-lo de outras doenças que cursam com sinais nervosos.(AU)

Meningiomas are the main tumors of the central nervous system (CNS) affecting dogs and cats. In most of the cases they are benign neoplasms, usually expansive, causing compression of the CNS and rarely metastasize to other organs. We describe the occurrence of a microcystic meningioma with pulmonary metastasis in an 11 - year - old canine with clinical signs of staggering gait, head compression against objects, agitation, salivation and aggressiveness. At necropsy, well-defined, firm, granular-looking masses located in the parietal cortex and nuclei of the base were observed in the encephalon. Numerous micronodulations of similar appearance were observed in the lung. Histologically, nodules formed by spindle neoplastic cells with large, elongated nuclei and evident nuclei were loosely arranged, forming vacuoles and microcysts. Immunohistochemistry were strongly positive for cytokeratin and negative for vimentin. Through the histopathology and immunohistochemistry, it was possible to establish the histological classification of microcystic meningioma, as well as to differentiate from other diseases that present with nervous signals.(AU)

Meningioma microcístico com metástase pulmonar em canino: relato de caso / Microcystic meningioma with pulmonary metastasis in canine: case report

Meningiomas são os principais tumores primários do sistema nervoso central (SNC) que afetam cães e gatos. Na maioria dos casos, são neoplasias benignas, geralmente expansivas, causando compressão do SNC, e raramente fazem metástase para outros órgãos. O presente trabalho tem como objetivo relatar a ocorrência de um meningioma microcístico com metástase pulmonar em um canino de 11 anos de idade, com sinais clínicos de andar cambaleante, compressão da cabeça contra objetos, agitação, salivação e agressividade. Na necropsia, foram observadas, no encéfalo, massas bem delimitadas pardo-avermelhadas, firmes, de aspecto granular, localizadas no córtex parietal e nos núcleos da base. Inúmeras micronodulações de aspecto semelhante foram observadas no pulmão. Histologicamente observaram-se nódulos formados por células neoplásicas fusiformes, com núcleos grandes e alongados e nucléolos evidentes, dispostas de forma frouxa, formando vacúolos e microcistos. À imuno-histoquímica, o meningioma apresentou marcação fortemente positiva para citoqueratina e negativa para vimentina. Por meio da histopatologia e da imuno-histoquímica, foi possível estabelecer a classificação histológica de meningioma microcístico, bem como diferenciá-lo de outras doenças que cursam com sinais nervosos.(AU)

Meningiomas are the main tumors of the central nervous system (CNS) affecting dogs and cats. In most of the cases they are benign neoplasms, usually expansive, causing compression of the CNS and rarely metastasize to other organs. We describe the occurrence of a microcystic meningioma with pulmonary metastasis in an 11 - year - old canine with clinical signs of staggering gait, head compression against objects, agitation, salivation and aggressiveness. At necropsy, well-defined, firm, granular-looking masses located in the parietal cortex and nuclei of the base were observed in the encephalon. Numerous micronodulations of similar appearance were observed in the lung. Histologically, nodules formed by spindle neoplastic cells with large, elongated nuclei and evident nuclei were loosely arranged, forming vacuoles and microcysts. Immunohistochemistry were strongly positive for cytokeratin and negative for vimentin. Through the histopathology and immunohistochemistry, it was possible to establish the histological classification of microcystic meningioma, as well as to differentiate from other diseases that present with nervous signals.(AU)

Cerebrospinal fluid analysis in 58 ruminants showing neurological disorders / Análise do líquido cefalorraquidiano em 58 ruminantes com distúrbios neurológicos

Ruminants may be affected by a wide variety of central nervous system (CNS) diseases. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis forms the basis for ante mortem diagnostic evaluation of ruminants with clinical signs involving the CNS. Despite its importance as a tool to aid diagnosis, data regarding CSF examinations in spontaneous cases of CNS diseases in ruminants from Brazil are limited, and most reports involve experimental studies. Therefore, this study aimed to report the results of CSF analysis in 58 ruminants showing signs of neurological disorders. CSF samples for analysis were obtained from 32 cattle, 20 sheep, and 6 goats by cerebello-medullary cistern (n=54) or lumbosacral space (n=4) puncture. These ruminants showed neurological signs related to viral (n=13), mycotic (n=3), or bacterial (n=15) infections, and toxic (n=21), traumatic (n=4), or congenital disorders (n=2). CSF analysis from ruminants with viral infections presented lymphocytic pleocytosis, even though CSF showed no changes in several cases of rabies. Neutrophilic pleocytosis, cloudiness, presence of fibrin clots, and abnormal coloration were evident in the CSF of most cases of CNS bacterial infection, such as meningoencephalitis, meningitis, abscesses, myelitis, and a case of conidiobolomycosis. On the other hand, CSF was unchanged in most cases of toxic disorders, as botulism and hepatic encephalopathy. Elevated CSF density was observed in 60% of ruminants diagnosed with polioencephalomalacia. Our findings show that evaluation of CSF is a valuable diagnostic tool when used in association with epidemiological, clinical and pathological findings for diagnosis of CNS diseases in ruminants.(AU)

Os ruminantes podem ser afetados por uma grande variedade de doenças do sistema nervoso central (SNC). A análise do líquido cefalorraquidiano (LCR) constitui a base da avaliação diagnóstica ante mortem de ruminantes com sinais clínicos envolvendo o SNC. Apesar de sua importância como ferramenta para auxiliar no diagnóstico, os dados referentes aos exames do LCR em casos espontâneos de doenças do SNC em ruminantes no Brasil são limitados, e, a maioria dos relatos envolve estudos experimentais. Portanto, este trabalho teve como objetivo relatar os resultados da análise do LCR em 58 ruminantes com distúrbios neurológicos. Amostras do LCR foram obtidas de 32 bovinos, 20 ovinos e 6 caprinos por punção da cisterna cerebelo-medular (n=54) ou espaço lombossacro (n=4) para posterior análise. Esses ruminantes apresentaram sinais neurológicos relacionados a infecções virais (n=13), micóticas (n=3) ou bacterianas (n=15), e desordens tóxicas (n=21), traumáticas (n=4) ou congênitas (n=2) A análise do LCR de ruminantes com infecções virais apresentou pleocitose linfocítica, embora, em vários casos de raiva, o LCR não tenha apresentado alterações. Pleocitose neutrofílica, turbidez, presença de coágulos de fibrina e coloração anormal foram evidentes no LCR da maioria dos casos de infecções bacterianas do SNC, como meningoencefalites, meningites, abscessos, mielite e um caso de conidiobolomicose. Por outro lado, o LCR não foi alterado na maioria dos casos dos distúrbios tóxicos, como botulismo e encefalopatia hepática. A densidade elevada no LCR foi observada em 60% dos ruminantes diagnosticados com polioencefalomalácia. Nossos resultados mostram que a avaliação do LCR é uma valiosa ferramenta de diagnóstico, quando usada em associação com os achados epidemiológicos, clínicos e patológicos para o diagnóstico de doenças do SNC em ruminantes.(AU)

Osteossarcoma mamário com êmbolo neoplásico em cerebelo / Mammary osteosarcoma with neoplastic emboli in cerebellum

Background: The mammary neoplasms are highly frequent in female dogs. It is characterized by the proliferation of epithelial or mesenchymal cells. The mammary osteosarcoma is a example of the proliferation of the last group and its main feature is production of osteoid matrix and areas of mature bone tissue formation. Metastases to the lungs and regional lymph nodes are frequent, however some other metastasis sites have been reported. The aim of this study is to report a mammary osteosarcoma in a 12-year-old mixed-breed female dog with multiple metastases and neoplastic emboli to the central nervous system. Case: The animal was brought to the Veterinary Hospital of the Uberlândia Federal University (HV/UFU) with the complaint of increase in the volume of the mammary glands. The cytopathological exams was performed in the mass that measured 15 cm of diameter and covering a large region of the mammary gland, from the right cranial thoracic to the right cranial abdominal mammary gland. The cytological diagnostic was inconclusive because of the lack of material for diagnosis. Therefore, total unilateral mastectomy was performed for histopathology analysis. The material was then sent to the Animal Pathology Laboratory of the HV/UFU where routine processing was performed. The microscopy showed proliferation of mesenchymal cells arranged in bundles with intense pleomorfism and producing osteoid matrix, leading to the diagnosis of mammary osteosarcoma. Around 15 days after the diagnostic the animal died and was sent the Animal Pathology Laboratory of the HV/UFU for necropsy. During the external exam there was a mass at the same site of the primary mass previously extracted. Besides it, there were masses affecting lungs, intestine and kidneys. The histopathological exam showed sites of metastasis of osteosarcoma in the organs described, as well as neoplastic...

Osteossarcoma mamário com êmbolo neoplásico em cerebelo / Mammary osteosarcoma with neoplastic emboli in cerebellum

Background: The mammary neoplasms are highly frequent in female dogs. It is characterized by the proliferation of epithelial or mesenchymal cells. The mammary osteosarcoma is a example of the proliferation of the last group and its main feature is production of osteoid matrix and areas of mature bone tissue formation. Metastases to the lungs and regional lymph nodes are frequent, however some other metastasis sites have been reported. The aim of this study is to report a mammary osteosarcoma in a 12-year-old mixed-breed female dog with multiple metastases and neoplastic emboli to the central nervous system. Case: The animal was brought to the Veterinary Hospital of the Uberlândia Federal University (HV/UFU) with the complaint of increase in the volume of the mammary glands. The cytopathological exams was performed in the mass that measured 15 cm of diameter and covering a large region of the mammary gland, from the right cranial thoracic to the right cranial abdominal mammary gland. The cytological diagnostic was inconclusive because of the lack of material for diagnosis. Therefore, total unilateral mastectomy was performed for histopathology analysis. The material was then sent to the Animal Pathology Laboratory of the HV/UFU where routine processing was performed. The microscopy showed proliferation of mesenchymal cells arranged in bundles with intense pleomorfism and producing osteoid matrix, leading to the diagnosis of mammary osteosarcoma. Around 15 days after the diagnostic the animal died and was sent the Animal Pathology Laboratory of the HV/UFU for necropsy. During the external exam there was a mass at the same site of the primary mass previously extracted. Besides it, there were masses affecting lungs, intestine and kidneys. The histopathological exam showed sites of metastasis of osteosarcoma in the organs described, as well as neoplastic...(AU)

Cerebrospinal fluid analysis in 58 ruminants showing neurological disorders / Análise do líquido cefalorraquidiano em 58 ruminantes com distúrbios neurológicos

Ruminants may be affected by a wide variety of central nervous system (CNS) diseases. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis forms the basis for ante mortem diagnostic evaluation of ruminants with clinical signs involving the CNS. Despite its importance as a tool to aid diagnosis, data regarding CSF examinations in spontaneous cases of CNS diseases in ruminants from Brazil are limited, and most reports involve experimental studies. Therefore, this study aimed to report the results of CSF analysis in 58 ruminants showing signs of neurological disorders. CSF samples for analysis were obtained from 32 cattle, 20 sheep, and 6 goats by cerebello-medullary cistern (n=54) or lumbosacral space (n=4) puncture. These ruminants showed neurological signs related to viral (n=13), mycotic (n=3), or bacterial (n=15) infections, and toxic (n=21), traumatic (n=4), or congenital disorders (n=2). CSF analysis from ruminants with viral infections presented lymphocytic pleocytosis, even though CSF showed no changes in several cases of rabies. Neutrophilic pleocytosis, cloudiness, presence of fibrin clots, and abnormal coloration were evident in the CSF of most cases of CNS bacterial infection, such as meningoencephalitis, meningitis, abscesses, myelitis, and a case of conidiobolomycosis. On the other hand, CSF was unchanged in most cases of toxic disorders, as botulism and hepatic encephalopathy. Elevated CSF density was observed in 60% of ruminants diagnosed with polioencephalomalacia. Our findings show that evaluation of CSF is a valuable diagnostic tool when used in association with epidemiological, clinical and pathological findings for diagnosis of CNS diseases in ruminants.(AU)

Os ruminantes podem ser afetados por uma grande variedade de doenças do sistema nervoso central (SNC). A análise do líquido cefalorraquidiano (LCR) constitui a base da avaliação diagnóstica ante mortem de ruminantes com sinais clínicos envolvendo o SNC. Apesar de sua importância como ferramenta para auxiliar no diagnóstico, os dados referentes aos exames do LCR em casos espontâneos de doenças do SNC em ruminantes no Brasil são limitados, e, a maioria dos relatos envolve estudos experimentais. Portanto, este trabalho teve como objetivo relatar os resultados da análise do LCR em 58 ruminantes com distúrbios neurológicos. Amostras do LCR foram obtidas de 32 bovinos, 20 ovinos e 6 caprinos por punção da cisterna cerebelo-medular (n=54) ou espaço lombossacro (n=4) para posterior análise. Esses ruminantes apresentaram sinais neurológicos relacionados a infecções virais (n=13), micóticas (n=3) ou bacterianas (n=15), e desordens tóxicas (n=21), traumáticas (n=4) ou congênitas (n=2) A análise do LCR de ruminantes com infecções virais apresentou pleocitose linfocítica, embora, em vários casos de raiva, o LCR não tenha apresentado alterações. Pleocitose neutrofílica, turbidez, presença de coágulos de fibrina e coloração anormal foram evidentes no LCR da maioria dos casos de infecções bacterianas do SNC, como meningoencefalites, meningites, abscessos, mielite e um caso de conidiobolomicose. Por outro lado, o LCR não foi alterado na maioria dos casos dos distúrbios tóxicos, como botulismo e encefalopatia hepática. A densidade elevada no LCR foi observada em 60% dos ruminantes diagnosticados com polioencefalomalácia. Nossos resultados mostram que a avaliação do LCR é uma valiosa ferramenta de diagnóstico, quando usada em associação com os achados epidemiológicos, clínicos e patológicos para o diagnóstico de doenças do SNC em ruminantes.(AU)