Adrenal glands of Chinchilla lanigera - study of anatomical features with computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging

Background: Since chinchilla (Chinchilla lanigera) is frequently used as a laboratory animal, satisfactory data about the imaging anatomical appearance of its adrenal glands, such as their anatomical location and closeness with other abdominal soft tissue and vessels, are important. The aim of this study to determine anatomical features of the chinchilla adrenal gland's using computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging. Materials, Methods & Results: We used 12 chinchillas (6 males and 6 females), aged 18 months. The animals were in supine recumbency when contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT) was performed. Transverse, sagittal and dorsal images of the adrenal glands were obtained with iodinated contrast medium, and 3D reconstruction of the obtained images was applied. The craniocaudal (CrCc - length), dorsoventral (DV - height) and lateromedial (LM - width) diameters were measured using an electronic calliper. Magnetic resonance imaging was performed, and coronal T1-weighted images were obtained. The transverse CT anatomical image at the level of the 3rd lumbar vertebra demonstrated the location of the both adrenal glands in accordance with the grey-white scale's variation. The right adrenal gland was hypo-attenuated and elliptic compared to the right kidney and in close contact to it and to the caudal vena cava. The left adrenal gland was oval and at a distance to the abdominal aorta. The dorsal MRI anatomical study of the chinchilla's abdominal organs at a distance of 10 mm from the spine and in a T1-weighted sequence showed that both adrenal glands were retroperitoneal organs. Discussion: Post-contrasted CT defined the topography of both glands. The right adrenal gland has an oval shape and is cranially situated to the left gland, whose shape is cylindrical and elongated. The LM diameter of the right gland is higher than that measured in the left gland. Both DV and CrCc diameters of the right gland are lower compared to those of the left gland. The right adrenal gland is in close contact to the caudal vena cava, the right kidney and the liver, and the left adrenal gland is in a distance to the abdominal aorta. The right adrenal gland was close to the caudal vena cava and the right kidney and medially to the left kidney. The successful comparative analysis of the images in 3D reconstruction and post-contrast CT in 2D allowed us to conclude that 3D reconstruction is suitable to obtain detailed information in a summary form regarding the closeness of the glands and their shape, mainly because the results are in a real time and highly comprehensive. Our data are in in agreement with previous findings about the advantages of 3D reconstruction. The research algorithm applied was based on the dorsal visualization of the glands in T1-weighted sequence, achieving a comprehensive and high-quality MRI imaging of the examined organs in chinchillas. Both adrenal glands were retroperitoneal organs and with low signal. The dorsal MRI anatomical study of the chinchilla's abdominal organs at a distance of 10 mm from the spine and in a T1-weighted sequence showed the whole profile of the right and left glands and the cranial position of the right gland to the left one, the close contact between the right gland and the kidney and the distance between the left gland and the left kidney. The MRI results are detailed and comprehensive for interpretation. In conclusion, the results of the present study are comprehensive, detailed and with high resolution. We present data for the anatomical relationships of the studied organs, their shape and macrometric parameters, concluding that the above mentioned modalities are very important tools for studying the chinchilla's adrenal glands to create a morphological base, which is necessary to investigate specific diseases.

Sistematização e descrição da vascularização arterial da área páleo-palial na superfície do cérebro de chinchila (Chinchilla lanigera) / Systematization and description of arterial vascularization of the paleopallia area on the brain surface of chinchilla (Chinchilla lanigera)

Background: Chinchilla (Chinchilla lanigera) is a small rodent that in recent years has been increasingly used as a laboratory animal by different researchers. Brain irrigation is the object of study by several authors, being chinchilla classifiedas a vertebrobasillary animal, that is, it does not depend on the internal carotid artery to originate its cerebral arterialvascularization. Thus, the objective of this study was to systematize and describe the branches of the rostral, middle andcaudal cerebral arteries that vascularized the paleopallia area of the chinchilla.Materials, Methods & Results: Thirty Chinchilla lanigera brains were used in this study, 17 females and 13 adult malesfrom farms in the municipalities of Viamão and Santa Maria in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. The animals wereheparinized, with 5000 IU / animal, and after 30 min were sacrificed with 8 mL / 2.5% sodium thiopental animal, bothintraperitoneally. The thoracic cavity was opened, the cardiac apex sectioned and the aortic arch was cannulated throughthe left ventricle. The arterial system was flushed with 0.9% cooled saline, 100mL / animal and then filled with 603 latexstained red with specific dye. The skin was recessed and a bone window opened in the cranial vault. Thus the pieces werefixed in 20% formaldehyde for seven days and after this period, the brain with a cervical spinal cord segment was removedand ventral schematic drawings of all preparations were prepared. The Veterinary Anatomical Nomina (2017) was usedto name the cerebral arteries and their branches and for the statistical analysis of the results, the percentage calculationwas applied. Brain irrigation in the chinchilla was supplied by the basilar artery, which was formed by anastomosis of theterminal branches of the right and left vertebral arteries, in the most caudal portion of the oblong medulla. The paleopalliaareas corresponded to the olfactory trine, lateral brain fossa, piriform lobe...

Sistematização e descrição da vascularização arterial da área páleo-palial na superfície do cérebro de chinchila (Chinchilla lanigera) / Systematization and description of arterial vascularization of the paleopallia area on the brain surface of chinchilla (Chinchilla lanigera)

Background: Chinchilla (Chinchilla lanigera) is a small rodent that in recent years has been increasingly used as a laboratory animal by different researchers. Brain irrigation is the object of study by several authors, being chinchilla classifiedas a vertebrobasillary animal, that is, it does not depend on the internal carotid artery to originate its cerebral arterialvascularization. Thus, the objective of this study was to systematize and describe the branches of the rostral, middle andcaudal cerebral arteries that vascularized the paleopallia area of the chinchilla.Materials, Methods & Results: Thirty Chinchilla lanigera brains were used in this study, 17 females and 13 adult malesfrom farms in the municipalities of Viamão and Santa Maria in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. The animals wereheparinized, with 5000 IU / animal, and after 30 min were sacrificed with 8 mL / 2.5% sodium thiopental animal, bothintraperitoneally. The thoracic cavity was opened, the cardiac apex sectioned and the aortic arch was cannulated throughthe left ventricle. The arterial system was flushed with 0.9% cooled saline, 100mL / animal and then filled with 603 latexstained red with specific dye. The skin was recessed and a bone window opened in the cranial vault. Thus the pieces werefixed in 20% formaldehyde for seven days and after this period, the brain with a cervical spinal cord segment was removedand ventral schematic drawings of all preparations were prepared. The Veterinary Anatomical Nomina (2017) was usedto name the cerebral arteries and their branches and for the statistical analysis of the results, the percentage calculationwas applied. Brain irrigation in the chinchilla was supplied by the basilar artery, which was formed by anastomosis of theterminal branches of the right and left vertebral arteries, in the most caudal portion of the oblong medulla. The paleopalliaareas corresponded to the olfactory trine, lateral brain fossa, piriform lobe...(AU)

Anatomical and imagistic aspects of the aortic arch in Chinchilla lanigera

Background: The investigation on the cardiocirculatory system in chinchilla has become increasingly important due to the use of the species in experimental medicine (toxicology, pathology, parasitology etc.). Even though initially this species was regarded with a strict economic interest, in the last period, chinchillas have become an increasingly-encountered patient in veterinary clinics and hospitals. Another aspect is the use of the species in medical research, as experimental model or in parasitology. The present study tackles a combined anatomical and radiological (angiographical) study to accurately describe the vascular anatomy of the initial part of the aortic arch (Arcus aortae).Materials, Methods & Results: The anatomical distribution of collaterals detached from arcus aorticus (brachiocephalic trunk and subclavian arteries) are highlighted in this paper. To do that, the classical stratigraphic anatomical investigation, followed by the radiological study with the help of the contrast substance injected into the vascular bed were used in combination. Several Chinchilla lanigera female carcasses, obtained from a private commercial farming unit in Cluj county, Romania were used for this study. Ten carcasses were used for the anatomical study, being injected into the vascular bed with a mixture of latex and acrylic dye, fixated into formaldehyde 5% and later dissected, while the other ten carcasses were injected at the level of the aortic arch with Visipaque 320 contrast substance and subjected to the angiographical procedure.The anatomical investigation was carried after an initial 5 day-fixation period, while the angiographic procedure was initiated using the TEMCO Grx-01 device and the Veterinary Digital Imaging System® as digital imaging processing software. This combined study shows the differential mode of emergence of the subclavian and carotid arteries in this species.[...]

Anatomical and imagistic aspects of the aortic arch in Chinchilla lanigera

Background: The investigation on the cardiocirculatory system in chinchilla has become increasingly important due to the use of the species in experimental medicine (toxicology, pathology, parasitology etc.). Even though initially this species was regarded with a strict economic interest, in the last period, chinchillas have become an increasingly-encountered patient in veterinary clinics and hospitals. Another aspect is the use of the species in medical research, as experimental model or in parasitology. The present study tackles a combined anatomical and radiological (angiographical) study to accurately describe the vascular anatomy of the initial part of the aortic arch (Arcus aortae).Materials, Methods & Results: The anatomical distribution of collaterals detached from arcus aorticus (brachiocephalic trunk and subclavian arteries) are highlighted in this paper. To do that, the classical stratigraphic anatomical investigation, followed by the radiological study with the help of the contrast substance injected into the vascular bed were used in combination. Several Chinchilla lanigera female carcasses, obtained from a private commercial farming unit in Cluj county, Romania were used for this study. Ten carcasses were used for the anatomical study, being injected into the vascular bed with a mixture of latex and acrylic dye, fixated into formaldehyde 5% and later dissected, while the other ten carcasses were injected at the level of the aortic arch with Visipaque 320 contrast substance and subjected to the angiographical procedure.The anatomical investigation was carried after an initial 5 day-fixation period, while the angiographic procedure was initiated using the TEMCO Grx-01 device and the Veterinary Digital Imaging System® as digital imaging processing software. This combined study shows the differential mode of emergence of the subclavian and carotid arteries in this species.[...](AU)

Assessment of intraocular pressure in chinchillas of different age groups using rebound tonometry / Pressão intraocular em chinchilas de diferentes faixas etárias utilizando tonômetro de rebote

The aim of this research was to measure the intraocular pressure (IOP) of normal chinchilla eyes using the rebound tonometer. A further aim was to assess whether there were differences in the values of intraocular pressure in relation to animals age, gender and time of day. Thirty-six chinchillas were divided into three groups of 12 chinchillas each, by age: Group I (2-6-month-old), Group II (20 and 34 months) and Group III (37 and 135 months). Ophthalmic examination was performed previously by Schirmer tear test, slit lamp biomicroscopy, indirect ophthalmoscopy and fluorescein test in all chinchillas. Three measurements of intraocular pressure were assessed on the same day (7, 12 and 19h). Tonometry was performed on both eyes using the rebound tonometer after calibration in "p" mode. Statistical analysis was performed with SigmaPlot for Windows. The mean IOP for groups I, II and III were 2.47±0.581mmHg, 2.47±0.581mmHg and 2.51±0.531mmHg, respectively. No significant differences were reported between age and IOP and no significant differences were reported between the time of day and IOP. The IOP in chinchillas did not differ significantly between genders or ages of the animals, and did not change with time of day.(AU)

Objetivou-se aferir a pressão intraocular (PIO) em olhos saudáveis de chinchilas usando o tonômetro de rebote. Além disso, pretende-se verificar se existem diferenças nos valores de pressão intraocular em relação à idade e ao sexo dos animais e o período do dia. Trinta e seis chinchilas foram divididas em três grupos com 12 animais cada, considerando as idades, designados por GI (2-6 meses), GII (20-34 meses) e GIII (37-135 meses). Previamente, foi realizado exame oftalmológico, incluindo teste da lágrima de Schirmer, biomicroscopia com lâmpada de fenda, oftalmoscopia indireta e teste de fluoresceína em todas as chinchilas. Foram realizadas três aferições da pressão intraocular num mesmo dia (7, 12 e 19 horas). A tonometria foi realizada em ambos os olhos, usando o tonômetro de rebote calibrado no modo "p". Análise estatística foi realizada com o programa SigmaPlot para Windows a fim de analisar os dados. A média da PIO para o G I, G II e G III foi de 2,47±0,581mmHg, 2,47±0,581mmHg e G III de 2,51±0,531mmHg, respectivamente. Não houve diferenças significativas entre a idade e a PIO e não houve diferenças significativas entre as horas do dia e a PIO. Os valores da PIO em chinchilas não sofreram alterações decorrentes do sexo e da idade dos animais e não foram significativamente diferentes em distintas horas do dia.(AU)

Infecção sistêmica por Yersinia enterocolitica em chinchilas (Chinchilla laniger) / Systemic infection by Yersinia enterocolitica in chinchillas (Chinchilla laniger)

Yersinia enterocolitica é uma bactéria Gram-negativa que causa infecções em diversas espécies de mamíferos. O agente, geralmente, provoca infecções restritas ao intestino e linfonodos mesentéricos, porém a infecção pode se tornar sistêmica ocasionando lesões em outros órgãos como fígado e baço. Neste trabalho descrevem-se dois surtos de infecções sistêmicas causadas pela Yersinia enterocolitica em criatórios comerciais de chinchilas no Rio Grande do Sul (Brasil). Os proprietários relatavam que os animais acometidos apresentavam apatia, anorexia e morte. Foram encaminhados 13 animais para a realização de necropsia. No exame post mortem dos animais observou-se esplenomegalia, hepatomegalia e áreas multifocais esbranquiçadas no fígado, baço, pulmões, rins e intestino. No exame microscópico visualizou-se infiltrado inflamatório de neutrófilos e macrófagos, necrose, deposição de fibrina e ocasionalmente pode ser observado coco-bacilos no centro das áreas de necrose. No cultivo bacteriológico obteve-se o crescimento de Yersinia enterocolitica nos animais provenientes dos dois criatórios. O agente foi isolado de amostras no fígado, baço, intestino e pulmões dos animais necropsiados, além do cultivo de fezes de animais de uma das propriedades acometidas. A yersiniose, portanto, é uma patologia que deve ser investigada em casos de mortalidade de chinchilas.(AU)

Yersinia enterocolitica is a Gram-negative bacterium, which causes infections in several mammalian species. It is often recognized as an agent causing intestinal and mesenteric lymph nodes lesions. However, Yersinia enterocolitica infection may also become systemic, with lesions in others organs such as liver and spleen. This paper describes outbreaks of systemic infection due to Yersinia enterocolitica in two commercial chinchilla breeders in Rio Grande do Sul (Brazil). Owners reported that affected animals showed apathy, anorexia prior to death. Macroscopic examination performed in 13 animals revealed splenomegaly, hepatomegaly and multifocal whitish pinpoint foci in liver, spleen, lung, kidney and intestine. Microscopically, the affected tissues had infiltration of neutrophils and macrophages, as well as fibrin and necrosis with central areas containing cocobacilli bacteria. Yersinia enterocolitica was isolated from liver, spleen, lung and intestine samples from animals of both breeders, and from feces of chinchillas of one of the breeders. Therefore, yersiniosis is a disease to be investigated in cases of mortality of chinchillas.(AU)

Doenças de chinchilas (Chinchilla lanigera) / Diseases of chinchilla (Chinchilla lanigera)

As doenças de chinchilas foram estudadas através da avaliação de laudos de necropsia entre janeiro de 1997 e dezembro de 2011. Em 202 chinchilas necropsiadas, 189 (93,5%) tiveram o diagnóstico determinado, e 13 (6,5%) tiveram diagnóstico inconclusivo, por ausência de lesões ou autólise acentuada. Dentre as 202 chinchilas computadas, 162 eram fêmeas (80%), 37 eram machos (18%), e em quatro chinchilas (2%) o sexo não foi anotado. As chinchilas tinham entre um dia a 12 anos de idade. As doenças foram agrupadas nas seguintes categorias: doenças inflamatórias, doenças causadas por intoxicações, doenças causadas por agentes físicos, doenças metabólicas, doenças parasitárias, doenças degenerativas, distúrbios circulatórios, neoplasmas, distúrbios do desenvolvimento e "outros distúrbios". As doenças inflamatórias foram as mais prevalentes (52 casos [25,7%]) e foram representadas por casos de gastrite (10 casos), listeriose (5 casos), septicemia (5 casos), broncopneumonia bacteriana (4 casos), enterite necrosante (4 casos), piometra (4 casos), diarreia com isolamento de Proteus sp. (3 casos), abscessos subcutâneos e em linfonodos (2 casos), endometrite (2 casos), otite (2 casos), pielonefrite (2 casos), abscesso do ligamento redondo do fígado (1 caso), pneumonia fibrinosa (1 caso), pneumonia intersticial (1 caso), hepatite e colecistite com isolamento de Salmonella sp. (1 caso), histiocitose pulmonar (1 caso), miosite linfo-histiocítica (1 caso) e um caso de dermatofitose (Trichopyton metagrophytes). O segundo grupo de doenças mais prevalentes foram as intoxicações (22,3%), representado por 45 casos de intoxicação por salinomicina. As doenças causadas por agentes físicos (21 casos [10,4%]) incluíam casos de traumas causados por outros animais (8 casos), automutilação após injeção intramuscular (8 casos), prolapso de reto (3 casos) e parto distócico (2 casos). A categoria de doenças metabólicas foi representada por 16 casos (7,9%) de lipidose hepática. As doenças parasitárias (8 casos [4%]) consistiram em infestação por pulga (4 casos), piolho (3 casos) e giardíase (1 caso). Doenças degenerativas (4 casos [2,5%]) incluíam insuficiência renal crônica (2 casos), necrose aleatória de hepatócitos (1 caso) e necrose muscular de origem desconhecida (1 caso). Os distúrbios circulatórios incluíram dois casos (0,99%) de insuficiência cardíaca congestiva. Neoplasmas foram representados por dois casos (0,99%) de adenocarcinoma gástrico. Um caso de atresia ani, associado a ausência do trato reprodutor, intestino grosso e rins policíticos representou a categoria de distúrbios do desenvolvimento (0,5%). Algumas doenças não se enquadraram nas categorias acima e foram enquadradas em "outros distúrbios" (38 casos [18,8%]). Nesta categoria, doenças dentárias foi o distúrbio mais comum, diagnosticado em 9% (18 de 202) de todas as chinchilas examinadas. Seguido por casos de hipertermia (14 casos), dois casos de anemia, dois casos de metaplasia de células adiposas do córtex da adrenal, e dois casos de mucometra.(AU)

Diseases of chinchilla were studied through the review of necropsy reports of 202 postmortem examinations carried out in this species from January 1997 to December 2011. One hundred and eighty nine of these necropsies (93.5%) had a conclusive diagnosis and in 13 (6.5%) a conclusive diagnosis was not reached due either absence of lesions or advanced autolysis. One hundred and sixty two (80%) of the necropsied chinchilla were females and 37 (18%) were males and the sex was not recorded in four cases (2%). Ages of necropsied chinchillas varied from one day to 12-years-old. The encountered diseases were grouped in the following categories: inflammatory diseases, diseases caused by intoxications, diseases caused by physical agents, metabolic diseases, parasitism, degenerative diseases, circulatory disturbances, developmental disorders and "other disorders". Inflammatory diseases were the most prevalent (52 cases [25.7%]) and included gastritis (10 cases), necrotizing enteritis (6 cases), listeriosis (5 cases), septicemia (5 cases), bacterial bronchopneumonia (4 cases), pyometra (4 cases), diarrhea associated with Proteus sp. (3 cases), subcutaneous and lymph node abscesses (2 cases), endometritis (2 cases), otitis (2 cases), pyelonephritis (2 cases), abscesses in hepatic the round ligament (1 cases), fibrinous pneumonia (1 case), interstitial pneumonia (1 case), hepatitis and cholecystitis associated with Salmonella sp. (1 case), pulmonary histiocytosis (1 case), and dermatophytosis by Trichopyton metagrophytes (1 case). The second most prevalent group of diseases was that caused by intoxications (22,3% of the cases) including 45 cases of intoxication by salinomycin. Diseases caused by physical agents (21 cases [10.4%]) included trauma cases caused by other animals (8 cases), self mutilation secondary to intramuscular injection (8 cases), rectal prolapsed (3 cases) and dystocia (2 cases). Metabolic diseases were represented by 16 cases (7.9%) of hepatic lipidosis. Parasitic diseases were represented by 8 cases (4%) flea (4 cases) lice (3 cases) infestations and one case o giardiasis. Degenerative diseases (4 cases or 2,5%) included two cases of chronic renal failure, one case of scattered hepatocellular necrosis and one case of muscle necrosis of unknown origin. Circulatory disturbances included two cases (0.99%) of congestive heart failure. Neoplasms were represented by two cases (0.99%) of gastric adenocarcinoma. Developmental disorders included one (0,5%) case of atresia ani associated with polycystic kidneys and absence of reproductive tract and large intestine. Thirty eight cases (18.8%) did not fit in any of the above categories and were placed as "other disorders". In this category dental disease was the most commonly (8 cases or 9%) diagnosed disorder, followed by 14 cases (6,9%) of hyperthermia, tow cases of anemia, two cases of fat metaplasia of adrenal cortex and two cases of mucometra.(AU)

Doenças de chinchilas (Chinchilla lanigera) / Diseases of chinchilla (Chinchilla lanigera)

As doenças de chinchilas foram estudadas através da avaliação de laudos de necropsia entre janeiro de 1997 e dezembro de 2011. Em 202 chinchilas necropsiadas, 189 (93,5%) tiveram o diagnóstico determinado, e 13 (6,5%) tiveram diagnóstico inconclusivo, por ausência de lesões ou autólise acentuada. Dentre as 202 chinchilas computadas, 162 eram fêmeas (80%), 37 eram machos (18%), e em quatro chinchilas (2%) o sexo não foi anotado. As chinchilas tinham entre um dia a 12 anos de idade. As doenças foram agrupadas nas seguintes categorias: doenças inflamatórias, doenças causadas por intoxicações, doenças causadas por agentes físicos, doenças metabólicas, doenças parasitárias, doenças degenerativas, distúrbios circulatórios, neoplasmas, distúrbios do desenvolvimento e "outros distúrbios". As doenças inflamatórias foram as mais prevalentes (52 casos [25,7%]) e foram representadas por casos de gastrite (10 casos), listeriose (5 casos), septicemia (5 casos), broncopneumonia bacteriana (4 casos), enterite necrosante (4 casos), piometra (4 casos), diarreia com isolamento de Proteus sp. (3 casos), abscessos subcutâneos e em linfonodos (2 casos), endometrite (2 casos), otite (2 casos), pielonefrite (2 casos), abscesso do ligamento redondo do fígado (1 caso), pneumonia fibrinosa (1 caso), pneumonia intersticial (1 caso), hepatite e colecistite com isolamento de Salmonella sp. (1 caso), histiocitose pulmonar (1 caso), miosite linfo-histiocítica (1 caso) e um caso de dermatofitose (Trichopyton metagrophytes). O segundo grupo de doenças mais prevalentes foram as intoxicações (22,3%), representado por 45 casos de intoxicação por salinomicina. As doenças causadas por agentes físicos (21 casos [10,4%]) incluíam casos de traumas causados por outros animais (8 casos), automutilação após injeção intramuscular (8 casos), prolapso de reto (3 casos) e parto distócico (2 casos). A categoria de doenças metabólicas foi representada por 16 casos (7,9%) de lipidose hepática. As doenças parasitárias (8 casos [4%]) consistiram em infestação por pulga (4 casos), piolho (3 casos) e giardíase (1 caso). Doenças degenerativas (4 casos [2,5%]) incluíam insuficiência renal crônica (2 casos), necrose aleatória de hepatócitos (1 caso) e necrose muscular de origem desconhecida (1 caso). Os distúrbios circulatórios incluíram dois casos (0,99%) de insuficiência cardíaca congestiva. Neoplasmas foram representados por dois casos (0,99%) de adenocarcinoma gástrico. Um caso de atresia ani, associado a ausência do trato reprodutor, intestino grosso e rins policíticos representou a categoria de distúrbios do desenvolvimento (0,5%). Algumas doenças não se enquadraram nas categorias acima e foram enquadradas em "outros distúrbios" (38 casos [18,8%]). Nesta categoria, doenças dentárias foi o distúrbio mais comum, diagnosticado em 9% (18 de 202) de todas as chinchilas examinadas. Seguido por casos de hipertermia (14 casos), dois casos de anemia, dois casos de metaplasia de células adiposas do córtex da adrenal, e dois casos de mucometra.(AU)

Diseases of chinchilla were studied through the review of necropsy reports of 202 postmortem examinations carried out in this species from January 1997 to December 2011. One hundred and eighty nine of these necropsies (93.5%) had a conclusive diagnosis and in 13 (6.5%) a conclusive diagnosis was not reached due either absence of lesions or advanced autolysis. One hundred and sixty two (80%) of the necropsied chinchilla were females and 37 (18%) were males and the sex was not recorded in four cases (2%). Ages of necropsied chinchillas varied from one day to 12-years-old. The encountered diseases were grouped in the following categories: inflammatory diseases, diseases caused by intoxications, diseases caused by physical agents, metabolic diseases, parasitism, degenerative diseases, circulatory disturbances, developmental disorders and "other disorders". Inflammatory diseases were the most prevalent (52 cases [25.7%]) and included gastritis (10 cases), necrotizing enteritis (6 cases), listeriosis (5 cases), septicemia (5 cases), bacterial bronchopneumonia (4 cases), pyometra (4 cases), diarrhea associated with Proteus sp. (3 cases), subcutaneous and lymph node abscesses (2 cases), endometritis (2 cases), otitis (2 cases), pyelonephritis (2 cases), abscesses in hepatic the round ligament (1 cases), fibrinous pneumonia (1 case), interstitial pneumonia (1 case), hepatitis and cholecystitis associated with Salmonella sp. (1 case), pulmonary histiocytosis (1 case), and dermatophytosis by Trichopyton metagrophytes (1 case). The second most prevalent group of diseases was that caused by intoxications (22,3% of the cases) including 45 cases of intoxication by salinomycin. Diseases caused by physical agents (21 cases [10.4%]) included trauma cases caused by other animals (8 cases), self mutilation secondary to intramuscular injection (8 cases), rectal prolapsed (3 cases) and dystocia (2 cases). Metabolic diseases were represented by 16 cases (7.9%) of hepatic lipidosis. Parasitic diseases were represented by 8 cases (4%) flea (4 cases) lice (3 cases) infestations and one case o giardiasis. Degenerative diseases (4 cases or 2,5%) included two cases of chronic renal failure, one case of scattered hepatocellular necrosis and one case of muscle necrosis of unknown origin. Circulatory disturbances included two cases (0.99%) of congestive heart failure. Neoplasms were represented by two cases (0.99%) of gastric adenocarcinoma. Developmental disorders included one (0,5%) case of atresia ani associated with polycystic kidneys and absence of reproductive tract and large intestine. Thirty eight cases (18.8%) did not fit in any of the above categories and were placed as "other disorders". In this category dental disease was the most commonly (8 cases or 9%) diagnosed disorder, followed by 14 cases (6,9%) of hyperthermia, tow cases of anemia, two cases of fat metaplasia of adrenal cortex and two cases of mucometra.(AU)

Surtos de intoxicação por salinomicina em chinchilas (Chinchilla lanigera) / Outbreaks of salinomycin toxicosis in Chinchillas (Chinchilla lanigera)

Quatro surtos de intoxicação por salinomicina são descrito em chinchilas de três municípios do Estado do Rio Grande do Sul. Uma semana após a ingestão de ração contendo 37 ppm de salinomicina, aproximadamente duas mil chinchilas de quatro fazendas expostas diminuíram o consumo da ração. Quatrocentos e vinte sete chinchilas demonstraram apatia. Dessas, duzentos e setenta e sete desenvolveram decúbito esternal e lateral, dispneia e coma, seguidos de morte. As primeiras mortes ocorreram oito dias após a ingestão da ração. A evolução dos sinais clínicos até a morte ou eutanásia foi de 2-5 dias. Os exames bioquímicos do soro sanguíneo em quatro chinchilas revelaram níveis aumentados da alanina aminotransferase, aspartato transaminase, fosfatase alcalina, creatina cinase, glicose, triglicerídeos e colesterol total. Quarenta e cinco chinchilas foram submetidas à necropsia. Os achados macroscópicos consistiam de marcada lipidose hepática em todas as chinchilas necropsiadas; fetos em estado de decomposição em doze chinchilas que estavam prenhes. Microscopicamente, múltiplas fibras musculares esqueléticas estavam hipereosinofílicas, tumefeitas e com perda das estriações. Nas chinchilas que sobreviveram por mais dias era possível observar segmentos fragmentados de miofibras afetadas (necrose flocular) e regeneração de miofibras. No fígado foi observada marcada degeneração gordurosa. Não foram observadas anormalidades microscópicas nos demais órgãos analisados. Análises à procura de aflatoxinas, resíduos de pesticidas e isolamento bacteriano foram negativos. A análise da ração por cromatografia líquida revelou 37ppm de salinomicina na ração. A ração suspeita foi administrada a 12 chinchilas, três das quais (25 por cento) morreram apresentando lesões semelhantes às observadas nas chinchilas com a doença natural. O diagnóstico de intoxicação por salinomicina foi baseado na epidemiologia, lesões histológicas características e na presença de salinomicina na ração administrada nas quatro criações envolvidas.(AU)

Four outbreaks of ionophore toxicosis are described in chinchillas from four commercial farms located in three municipalities in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, southern Brazil. Approximately 2,000 chinchillas showed decrease in food intake one week after start ingesting a ration containing 37 ppm of salinomycin. Four hundred and twenty seven chinchillas showed apathy. Of those 277 develop sternal and lateral recumbence, dyspnea and coma followed by death. First deaths occurred eight days after the start on the salinomycin containing ration; clinical course was 2-5 days. Serum chemistry carried out in four chinchillas revealed increased levels of alanine transaminase, aspartate transaminase, alkaline phosphatase, creatinenin kinase, glucose, triglicerids and total cholesterol. Forty five affected chinchillas were necropsied; consistent necropsy findings were marked hepatic lipidosis; additionally twelve pregnant chinchillas had dead decomposing fetuses. Microscopically skeletal muscles had multifocally swollen hypereosinophilic myofibers with loss of cross striations. In those chinchillas that survived longer than a few days, microscopic features in the skeletal muscle included segmental fragmentation of dead fibers (floccular necrosis) and myofiber regeneration. Marked fatty degeneration was observed in the livers of all affected chinchillas. No microscopic changes were observed in other organs. Chemical analysis in the feed consumed by the chinchillas did not detect aflatoxins or pesticides residues; bacterial culture performed in samples of liver and intestinal contents from necropsied chinchillas yielded no significant bacterial growth. Analysis by thin layer chromatography performed in the ration consumed by the chinchillas detected 37 ppm of salinomycin. The suspected ration was fed to 12 chinchillas three of which (25 percent) died with similar lesions to those observed in the natural cases. The diagnosis of salinomycin toxicosis was based in the epidemiology, histology of the lesions, on the detection of significant amounts of salinomycin in the ration used to feed the chinchillas in the four involved farms and on the reproduction of disease by feeding the suspected ration to susceptible chinchillas.(AU)

Necrotizing enteritis associated with Clostridium perfringensType B in chinchillas (Chinchilla lanigera) / Enterite necrosante associado a infecção por Clostridium perfringenstipo B em chinchilas (Chinchilla lanigera)

Four 3-4 month-old chinchillas (Chinchilla lanigera) from a commercial flock of 395 chinchillas, were found dead with evidence of previous diarrhea and prolapsed rectum. A fifth 8 month-old chinchilla died 8 hours after being found recumbent, apathetic, diarrheic and with a prolapsed rectum. Two chinchillas were necropsied and observed gross lesions consisted of extensive hemorrhagic enteritis, mild pulmonary edema and enlarged and yellow liver; this latter finding was particularly prominent in the chinchilla presenting longer clinical course. Histologically there was necrotizing enteritis associated with abundant bacterial rods aggregates in the intestinal surface epithelium and within the lamina propria. In the lungs there were small amounts of pink proteinaceous material (edema) in the interstitium and marked vacuolar hepatocellullar degeneration (lipidosis) in the liver. Anaerobic cultures from the intestinal contents of one of the affected chinchillas yielded Clostridium perfringens. Genotyping of this C. perfringens isolate was achieved by multiplex polymerase chain reaction (mPCR) as C. perfringenstype B due to detection of alpha, beta and epsilon-toxin genes. These findings suggest C. perfringens type B as an important cause of sudden or acute death in chinchillas.(AU)

Quatro chinchilas (Chinchilla lanigera) com 3-4 meses de idade, pertencentes a um criadouro comercial com 395 chinchilas, foram encontradas mortas com evidências de diarreia prévia e prolapso de reto. Uma quinta chinchila, de oito meses de idade, foi encontrada em decúbito, apática, com diarreia e prolopaso de reto, e morreu após oito horas. Duas chinchilas foram submetidas à necropsia. As lesões macroscópicas consistiam de extensa enterite hemorrágica, moderado edema pulmonar e fígado pálido e aumentado de volume; este achado foi particularmente proeminente na chinchila que apresentou curso clínico mais longo. Histologicamente foi observado enterite necrosante associada a numerosos agregados bacterianos na superfície epitelial com invasão da lâmina própria. Nos pulmões foi observada pequena quantidade de material proteináceo róseo amorfo (edema) no interstício e marcada degeneração hepatocelular vacuolar (lipidose). Cultura anaeróbica do conteúdo intestinal de uma chinchila afetada revelou crescimento de Clostridium perfringens. A genotipificação de C. perfringensisolado, realizada por reação em cadeia de polymerase multiplex(mPCR), revelou C. perfringenstipo B pela detecção das tóxinas alfa, beta e épisilon. Estes achados sugerem que infecção por C. perfringenstipo B é uma importante causa de morte súbita ou aguda em chinchilas.(AU)

Aspectos morfológicos, morfométricos e topográficos do aparelho digestório de Chinchilla Lanigera / Morphological, morphometric and topographical description of the digestive tract in Chinchilla lanigera

O objetivo deste estudo foi o de descrever os aspectos morfológicos e topográficos do Aparelho Digestório (AD) de chinchilas mediante a dissecação de 10 animais. Os segmentos do AD foram coletados e demarcados, seguido de análise volumétrica dos órgãos cavitários, através de injeção de solução salina a 60°C, além da mensuração dos comprimentos dos órgãos tubulares. Nos órgãos parenquimatosos realizou-se a sua pesagem. Durante a análise da disposição dos órgãos, evisceração e medição, observou-se que a cavidade oral é característica de roedores, as glândulas salivares são semelhantes às de lagomorfos e órgãos como esôfago, estômago, duodeno, cólon transverso, fígado, pâncreas e baço apresentam-se dispostos de forma semelhante ao descrito nas outras espécies. Já o jejuno e o cólon descendente foram evidenciados muito extensos e dispostos de forma ondulatória, suspensos no teto da cavidade abdominal. O íleo assemelhou-se ao descrito as outras espécies, porém sua disposição topográfica é da direita para esquerda, direcionando-se ao ceco, o qual constitui-se de duas porções distintas e bem desenvolvidas. Ambas as partes encontram-se localizadas à esquerda do plano mediano. O cólon ascendente dispõe-se de forma bastante particular, ocorrendo a presença de uma alça dupla que realiza um “looping” junto ao fígado. Uma característica relevante foi evidenciada ao comparar-se o reto de machos e fêmeas, onde nos machos o comprimento é maior. De posse dos resultados concluímos que apesar da chinchila ser um roedor, há características próprias da espécie e também outras que assemelham-se aos lagomorfos, constituindo uma relação entre essas ordens. (AU)

The aim of this study was to describe the morphological and topographic aspects of the chinchillas digestive apparatus (DA) through dissection of 10 animals. We collected the DA segments and made the volumetric analysis of cavitary organs through injection of saline solution at 60°C, and measuring of the tubular organs. The parenchymal organs were weighed. During analysis of the position of organs, evisceration and measuring, was observed that the oral cavity is typical of rodents, the salivary glands are similar to lagomorphs and organs as esophagus, stomach, duodenum, transversal colon, liver, pancreas and spleen were disposed in similar way to described to other species. On the other hand, jejunum and descending colon were found to be very long and disposed on a wavy way, hanging from the roof of the abdominal cavity. The ileum was found to be similar to other species, but its disposition topographic is from the right to the left, heading to cecum, which is made of two well developed distinct portions. Both portions are located to the left of the median plane. Ascending colon is disposed in a very particular way, in which we observe a double loop which makes a circle at the liver. A relevant characteristic was in evidence comparing the rectum of males and females: males' is longer. Based on these data we conclude that despite the fact that chinchillas are rodents, they have particular characteristics of their own, and other characteristics similar to lagomorphs, being then a connection between these orders. (AU)

Sistematização dos territórios nervosos do plexo braquial em chinchila (Chinchilla lanigera) / The nervous territories of the brachial plexus in Chinchilla lanigera

Para a realização do estudo referente ao plexo braquial (PB) e territórios nervosos do membro torácico de chinchila (Chinchilla lanigera) foram utilizados 10 animais de sete a 11 meses de idade. Tendo a pele sido retirada, procedeu-se a identificação da musculatura do membro torácico, região peitoral e parede torácica e abdominal. Subseqüentemente, foram aplicadas compressas de solução de ácido acético glacial 3% nas referidas regiões, com o intuito de melhorar a visualização dos nervos. Nos animais analisados notou-se a emergência do PB a partir do sexto nervo cervical até o primeiro torácico. Destas quatro raízes se formam os troncos dos nervos cujos ramos ventrais constituirão seu arranjo e distribuição territorial. Destes quatro troncos surgem os 12 nervos que constituem o PB, estes podem ser formados por apenas um segmento medular: unissegmentar (supraescapular, peitoral cranial e toracodorsal) ou por mais de dois segmentos: plurissegmentar (subescapular, axilar, músculo-cutâneo, torácico lateral, peitoral caudal, torácico longo, mediano, ulnar e radial). Com isso se observou constância na origem, inervação da musculatura, articulações e ossos do membro torácico, podendo-se afirmar a existência de um padrão claramente definido na delimitação dos territórios nervosos.(AU)

For the study concerning the Brachial Plexus (BP) and nervous territories of chinchillas (Chinchilla lanigera) 10 animals were used. After the removal of the skin, the indetification of the thoracic limb, pectoral area and thoracic and abdominal walls was made. Then, compresses of glacial acetic acid at 3% were applied to these areas, in order to improve the observation of the nerves. In the studied animals, the emergence of the BP was observed to be from the sixth cervical nerve to the first thoracic nerve. These four roots make the trunks of the nerves whose ventral branches constitute their arrange and territorial distribution. From these four trunks arise the 12 nerves that constitute the BP. These nerves may be formed by a single medullary segment - monosegmentar (suprascapular, cranial pectoral, thoracodorsal), or by two ou more segments, plurisegmentar (subscapular, axillary, musculocutaneous, lateral thoracic, caudal pectoral, long thoracic, median, ulnar and radial). Therefore, constancy in origin, muscle, joint and bone innervation was observed, and can confirm the existence of a clearly defined pattern of the delimitation of nervous territories.(AU)

Preservação do sistema genital de chinchila (Chinchilla lanigera) para avaliação em microscopia de luz / Preservation of chinchilla genital system (Chinchilla lanigera) for microscopic evaluation

The preservation of chinchilla genital organs using a fixed solution of paraformaldehyde 10% buffered and a saturated solution of Bouin during 4, 12 and 18 hours of fixation, inclusion in paraffin and staining with hematoxylin-eosin was evaluated. The Bouin solution with 12 hours of fixation was the best protocol of fixation for the ovaries, oviduct, uterus and vagina, resulting in little tissue retraction and better cellular integration when compared to the other fixing times (4 and 18 hours). The fixation with paraformaldehyde showed good results of tissues fixation. Chinchilla genital organs can be preserved with paraformaldehyde 10% buffered and Bouin solution using 12 hours of fixation.(AU)

Distocia e ruptura uterina em chinchila / Dystocia and uterine rupture in chinchille

Distocia caracteriza a incapacidade ou dificuldade durante o parto. A etiologia pode ser materna ou fetal. O objetivo deste estudo é relatar um caso de distocia em Chinchilla lanigera, fêmea, com dois anos de idade, encaminhada para a clínica veterinária apresentando prostração, corrimento vaginal mucosanguinolento e sinais indicativos de trabalho de parto há aproximadamente 36 horas. Durante a avaliação ultrassonográfica, foi observado um feto morto e optou-se pela cesariana. Os fetos e anexos embrionários foram cuidadosamente removidos, e em seguida, realizou-se ovário-histerectomia. Quatro horas após a intervenção cirúrgica, o animal já apresentava excelente melhora clínica.(AU)

Dystocia means inability or difficult birth. The etiology of dystocia may be maternal or foetal. The objective of this study was to report a case of dystocia in a 2-years-old female Chinchilla lanigera was referred to a veterinary hospital presenting prostation, vaginal discharge with blood and in labour for 36 hours. During the ultrasonography, was observed one dead fetus and the cesarean section was preferred. The fetuses and associated embryonic membranes were carefully removed, and a routine ovariohysterectomy was performed also. Four hours after the surgery, the animal was recovered very well.(AU)

Distocia e ruptura uterina em chinchila / Dystocia and uterine rupture in chinchille

Distocia caracteriza a incapacidade ou dificuldade durante o parto. A etiologia pode ser materna ou fetal. O objetivo deste estudo é relatar um caso de distocia em Chinchilla lanigera, fêmea, com dois anos de idade, encaminhada para a clínica veterinária apresentando prostração, corrimento vaginal mucosanguinolento e sinais indicativos de trabalho de parto há aproximadamente 36 horas. Durante a avaliação ultrassonográfica, foi observado um feto morto e optou-se pela cesariana. Os fetos e anexos embrionários foram cuidadosamente removidos, e em seguida, realizou-se ovário-histerectomia. Quatro horas após a intervenção cirúrgica, o animal já apresentava excelente melhora clínica.

Dystocia means inability or difficult birth. The etiology of dystocia may be maternal or foetal. The objective of this study was to report a case of dystocia in a 2-years-old female Chinchilla lanigera was referred to a veterinary hospital presenting prostation, vaginal discharge with blood and in labour for 36 hours. During the ultrasonography, was observed one dead fetus and the cesarean section was preferred. The fetuses and associated embryonic membranes were carefully removed, and a routine ovariohysterectomy was performed also. Four hours after the surgery, the animal was recovered very well.

Reference values for chinchilla (Chinchilla laniger) blood cells and serum biochemical parameters

Raising chinchilla (Chinchilla laniger) for commercial purpose has increased significantly; however, hematological and serum biochemical reference values have not yet been determined for chinchillas raised in south Brazil. Establishing blood cells and serum biochemistry reference values might be helpful to evaluate health status of chinchillas and might be used as a tool by clinicians. The purpose of this study was to determine the reference values for blood cells and serum biochemistry of Chinchilla laniger. Blood samples were collected by cardiac puncture from 16 adult males, at the time they were killed to remove the fur coat, and from 8 adult males anesthetized with ketamine and xylazine. Blood cell counts and serum biochemistry analysis were performed using standard techniques and the results were expressed as mean ± SEM. Analysis of blood parameters from post-mortem cardiac punctured and from anesthetized chinchillas indicated that blood samples from anesthetized chinchillas had higher PCV, Hemoglobin, MCHC and WBC (P .05); in contrast, had lower levels of monocytes, basophils and eosinophils (P .05). Serum biochemical parameters were less affected by sampling method: anesthetized chinchillas had lower levels of urea, glucose and triglycerids (P .05). The data obtained might be useful as a parameter to monitor the health status of chinchillas raised in south Brazil.

A criação de chinchila (Chinchilla laniger) com objetivos comerciais tem crescido muito nos últimos anos. No entanto, os valores de referência para os parâmetros hematológicos e bioquímicos não foram ainda determinados para chinchilas criados no sul do Brasil. O estabelecimento dos valores de referência para esses parâmetros pode servir de auxílio para a avaliação da saúde das chinchilas e servir de auxílio diagnóstico para o clínico. Esse estudo teve como objetivo determinar os valores de referência das células e da bioquímica sangüínea da Chinchilla laniger. As amostras de sangue foram coletadas por meio de punção cardíaca de 16 machos adultos no momento em que os animais foram mortos para remoção da pele, e de 8 machos adultos após anestesia com xylazina e ketamina. A contagem das células sangüíneas e a análise dos parâmetros bioquímicos foram feitas utilizando-se métodos padronizados em patologia clínica, e os resultados foram expressos utilizando-se a média ± SEM. Analisando-se os parâmetros sangüíneos, observou-se que as amostras coletadas de animais descervicalizados apresentaram valores de PCV, hemoglobina, MCHC e WBC elevados (P .05) em relação às amostras dos animais anestesiados. No entanto, os parâmetros da bioquímica sangüínea foram menos afetados pelo método de coleta: amostras coletadas de animais anestesiados apresentaram níveis de uréia, glicose e triglicerídeos menores (P .05) do que amostras dos animais descervicalizados. Os dados obtidos serão úteis como parâmetros para monitorar o estado de saúde das chinchilas.

Reference values for chinchilla (Chinchilla laniger) blood cells and serum biochemical parameters

Raising chinchilla (Chinchilla laniger) for commercial purpose has increased significantly; however, hematological and serum biochemical reference values have not yet been determined for chinchillas raised in south Brazil. Establishing blood cells and serum biochemistry reference values might be helpful to evaluate health status of chinchillas and might be used as a tool by clinicians. The purpose of this study was to determine the reference values for blood cells and serum biochemistry of Chinchilla laniger. Blood samples were collected by cardiac puncture from 16 adult males, at the time they were killed to remove the fur coat, and from 8 adult males anesthetized with ketamine and xylazine. Blood cell counts and serum biochemistry analysis were performed using standard techniques and the results were expressed as mean ± SEM. Analysis of blood parameters from post-mortem cardiac punctured and from anesthetized chinchillas indicated that blood samples from anesthetized chinchillas had higher PCV, Hemoglobin, MCHC and WBC (P .05); in contrast, had lower levels of monocytes, basophils and eosinophils (P .05). Serum biochemical parameters were less affected by sampling method: anesthetized chinchillas had lower levels of urea, glucose and triglycerids (P .05). The data obtained might be useful as a parameter to monitor the health status of chinchillas raised in south Brazil.

A criação de chinchila (Chinchilla laniger) com objetivos comerciais tem crescido muito nos últimos anos. No entanto, os valores de referência para os parâmetros hematológicos e bioquímicos não foram ainda determinados para chinchilas criados no sul do Brasil. O estabelecimento dos valores de referência para esses parâmetros pode servir de auxílio para a avaliação da saúde das chinchilas e servir de auxílio diagnóstico para o clínico. Esse estudo teve como objetivo determinar os valores de referência das células e da bioquímica sangüínea da Chinchilla laniger. As amostras de sangue foram coletadas por meio de punção cardíaca de 16 machos adultos no momento em que os animais foram mortos para remoção da pele, e de 8 machos adultos após anestesia com xylazina e ketamina. A contagem das células sangüíneas e a análise dos parâmetros bioquímicos foram feitas utilizando-se métodos padronizados em patologia clínica, e os resultados foram expressos utilizando-se a média ± SEM. Analisando-se os parâmetros sangüíneos, observou-se que as amostras coletadas de animais descervicalizados apresentaram valores de PCV, hemoglobina, MCHC e WBC elevados (P .05) em relação às amostras dos animais anestesiados. No entanto, os parâmetros da bioquímica sangüínea foram menos afetados pelo método de coleta: amostras coletadas de animais anestesiados apresentaram níveis de uréia, glicose e triglicerídeos menores (P .05) do que amostras dos animais descervicalizados. Os dados obtidos serão úteis como parâmetros para monitorar o estado de saúde das chinchilas.

Composição química e análise sensorial da carne de chinchila / Chemical composition and sensory analysis of meat chinchilla

As carnes, em geral, são consideradas alimentos nobres para o homem pela qualidade de proteínas, pela presença de ácidos graxos essenciais, de vitaminas do complexo B e de certos minerais. A carne de chinchila possui excelente qualidade e sabor. No presente trabalho foram determinadas a composição química e a composição de cálcio e fósforo da carne de chinchila, seguindo a metodologia de Terra & Brum (1988), além da avaliação sensorial da carne. A análise indicou 74,02g% de umidade; 20,30g% de proteína; 4,20g% de lipídeos; 1,24g% de cinzas e 0,24g% de carboidratos. Para os minerais cálcio e fósforo, foram encontrados valores de 16,22 mg% e 303,0 mg%, respectivamente. Na análise sensorial, verificou-se que a carne de chinchila foi bem aceita pelos provadores. A análise da composição química da carne de chinchila mostrou ser uma boa fonte protéica, de fósforo e restrita em lipídios, fatores importantes para uma dieta equilibrada. Observa-se a necessidade de outros estudos sobre a criação comercial da chinchila, caracterização da carne e avaliação do processo de abate, o qual pode influenciar na qualidade da carne.(AU)

The meats, in general, are considered noble foods for the man for the quality of proteins, the presence of acid greasy essentials, vitamins of the complex B and certain minerals. The meat of chinchilla possess excellent quality and flavor. In the present work the chemical composition and the compositionof calcium and match of the meat of chinchilla had been determined, following the methodology of Terra & Brum (1988), beyond the sensorial evaluation of the meat. The analysis indicated 74,02 g% of humidity; 20,30 g% of protein; 4,20 g% of lipids; 1,24 g% of leached ashes and 0,24 g% of carbohydrate. For minerals calcium and match, values of 16,22 mg% and 303,0 mg% had been found, respectively. 1nthe sensorial analysis, it was verified that the meat of chinchilla was well accepted for the cloth provers. The analysis of the chemical composition of the meat of chinchilla showed to be a good protein source, of restricted match and in important lipids, factors for a balanced diet. It is observed necessity of other studies on the commercial creation of chinchilla, characterization of the meat and evaluation of the process of abates, which can influence in the quality of the meat. (AU)

AGENTES INFECCIOSOS ISOLADOS DE Chinchilla laniger

This report describes a case of infection for Pseudomonas aeruginosa and outbreaks caused by Bordetella bronchiseptica in chinchila farms from the region of Santa Maria, Southern Brazil. The affected animals presented apathy, anorexia, respiratory impairment and nasal secretion. The isolation of Pseudomonas aeruginosa was carried out through the culture of samples of lung whereas Bordetella bronchiseptica was obtainedfrom lung, liver and swab of traqueal secretion. In this report, the clinical data and the pathological findings as well as the isolation and identification of these agents are described.

Este relato descreve a infecção por Pseudomonas aeruginosa e surtos ocasionados por Bordetella bronchiseptica em chinchilas pertencentes a criatórios da região de Santa Maria, RS, Brasil. Os animais afetados apresentavam apatia, anorexia e dificuldade respiratória, acompanhada de secreção nasal mucopurulenta. O isolamento de Pseudomonas aeruginosa foi realizado pela cultura de amostra de tecido pulmonar, enquanto a Bordetella bronchiseptica foi isolada de pulmão, fígado e swab de secreção traqueal. São relatados e discutidos os dados clínicos e achados patológicos, assim como o isolamento e identificação desses agentes.