Thromboembolism in a bitch - diagnosis by infrared thermography

Background: Thermography is a noninvasive, non-contact, painless, and non-ionizing imaging technique that records cutaneous thermal patterns generated by infrared emission of the surface. The surface heat is closely related to dermal microcirculation. Thromboembolism is responsible for important changes in the thermal pattern of the body surface due to physical obstruction of blood flow, being the main complication in immune-mediated hemolytic anemia. The aim of this paper is to report a dog with thrombus in his left forelimb secondary to idiopathic hemolytic anemia, whose diagnostic screening was performed through infrared thermography. Case: A 9-year-old mixed breed bitch was referred to a veterinary hospital with a history of emesis, diarrhea and dark-colored urine for 2 days. The complete blood count showed hypochromic macrocytic anemia (hematocrit [HTC] 28%, reference: 37 to 55%) with the presence of nucleated erythrocyte (14/100 leukocytes, reference: 0 to 5/100 leukocytes), polychromasia and spherocytes. Leukocytosis (28,300 mm³, reference: 6,000 to 17,000 mm³) by neutrophilia with left deviation and toxic granulations was also present, in addition to hemoglobinuria at urine exam. Therefore, treatment for immune-mediated hemolytic anemia (IMHA) was instituted. After 2 days, the animal returned with acute functional impairment of the left forelimb. Physical examination revealed that the limb was cold, without pulse, proprioception, reflexes, and deep pain. New blood analyses revealed decreased hematocrit (HTC 17%, reference: 37 to 55%), and increased total leukocyte number (57,000 mm3, reference: 6,000 to 17,000 mm³). Infrared thermography revealed an important temperature difference between the limbs, with the affected limb temperature considerably lower (31.3ºC) when compared to the contralateral limb (35.0ºC). Thermography showed the site of the thrombus in the medial portion of the limb (cephalic vein), where the catheter had been placed for fluid therapy. Due to the severity of the condition, the bitch was submitted to amputation surgery, which occurred without complications. The patient had a good response to treatment, with decreased signs of hemolysis and hypercoagulability. The medications were slowly withdrawn, and the clinical discharge occurred after 4 weeks. Discussion: In humans, thermography has been widely used in the assessment of thrombotic diseases, contributing to diagnosis, localization, and prognosis. In veterinary medicine, however, the use of this tool in the diagnosis of thromboembolism is still rare. The difference of 3.7°C between the affected and contralateral limb was objectively verified using thermography. A minimum difference of 2.4°C between limbs has high sensitivity and specificity for diagnosing thromboembolism and occurs due to the reduction in local blood flow. In the present case this tool was essential for the anatomical location of the thrombus, which was in the middle third of the forearm, and allowed an adequate surgical planning. It is known that the main complication of IMHA is thromboembolism. Its predisposing factors include venous stasis, endothelial damage, and hypercoagulability, being exacerbated by cage confinement, decubitus and presence of a peripheral venous catheter. The reported case corroborates at least one of these factors since it had a peripheral venous catheter in the left forelimb, which later showed absence of pulse, spinal reflexes, pain and proprioception. The thermography showed to be an objective, rapid and non-invasive tool to diagnose and precisely locate the thrombus, which allowed for adequate treatment and surgical planning for the case. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report about use of thermography to diagnose thromboembolism secondary to immune-mediated hemolytic anemia in a dog.

Aspergilose sistêmica em um cavalo - relato de caso / Systemic aspergilosis in a horse - case report

O presente trabalho relata o caso de aspergilose sistêmica em um cavalo da raça Quarto de Milha. O animal apresentava quadro de emagrecimento progressivo e alopecia. Os parâmetros avaliados durante o exame clínico encontravam-se de acordo com os valores normais para a espécie. No hemograma verificou-se leucocitose por neutrofilia, sem desvio à esquerda, proteínas plasmáticas totais elevadas e aumento do fibrinogênio, indicando um processo inflamatório acompanhado de desidratação. Os exames bioquímicos séricos demonstraram aumento no valor da ureia. Apesar dos exames realizados e da terapia instituída com antibióticos de amplo espectro e suporte nutricional, após 51 dias de internamento o quadro clínico evoluiu para caquexia e decúbito permanente do paciente, o qual foi submetido à eutanásia seguida de necropsia. Com base nos achados nos exames necroscópico e histopatológico, diagnosticou-se infecção sistêmica por Aspergillus sp., acometendo pulmões, fígado, rins, peritônio parietal e encéfalo. Dentre os fatores predisponentes à relatada infecção fúngica sistêmica, destaca-se o status imunológico debilitado do paciente, possivelmente proporcionado por tratamentos prolongados com antibióticos e anti-inflamatórios esteroidais. O presente trabalho relata o primeiro caso descrito de arpergilose sistêmica no Brasil. O diagnóstico definitivo só foi possível após necropsia e histopatologia, visto que os sinais clínicos inespecíficos não foram determinantes para o diagnóstico em vida.(AU)

This paper reports the case of systemic aspergillosis on a Quarter Horse. The animal had progressive weight loss and alopecia. The parameters evaluated during the clinical examination were in agreement with the normal values for the species. The hemogram showed neutrophilic leukocytosis, without left-sided, elevated total plasma proteins and an increase in fibrinogen, indicating an inflammatory process accompanied by dehydration. Serum biochemical tests showed an increase in the value of urea. Despite the performed tests and established therapy with broad spectrum antibiotics and nutritional support, after 51 days of hospitalization the clinical condition evolved into cachexia and permanent decubitus of the patient which underwent to euthanasia and necropsy. From the findings of necropsy and histopathology, systemic infection was diagnosed by Aspergillus sp., affecting the lungs, liver, kidneys, parietal peritoneum and encephalon. Among the factors predisposing to the reported systemic fungal infection, the patient's weakened immune status is highlighted, possibly due to prolonged antibiotic and steroidal anti-inflammatory treatments. This paper reports the first case described of systemic aspergillosis in Brazil. Definitive diagnosis was only possible after necropsy and histopathology, since nonspecific clinical signs were not determinant for the diagnosis in life.(AU)

Aspergilose sistêmica em um cavalo - relato de caso / Systemic aspergilosis in a horse - case report

O presente trabalho relata o caso de aspergilose sistêmica em um cavalo da raça Quarto de Milha. O animal apresentava quadro de emagrecimento progressivo e alopecia. Os parâmetros avaliados durante o exame clínico encontravam-se de acordo com os valores normais para a espécie. No hemograma verificou-se leucocitose por neutrofilia, sem desvio à esquerda, proteínas plasmáticas totais elevadas e aumento do fibrinogênio, indicando um processo inflamatório acompanhado de desidratação. Os exames bioquímicos séricos demonstraram aumento no valor da ureia. Apesar dos exames realizados e da terapia instituída com antibióticos de amplo espectro e suporte nutricional, após 51 dias de internamento o quadro clínico evoluiu para caquexia e decúbito permanente do paciente, o qual foi submetido à eutanásia seguida de necropsia. Com base nos achados nos exames necroscópico e histopatológico, diagnosticou-se infecção sistêmica por Aspergillus sp., acometendo pulmões, fígado, rins, peritônio parietal e encéfalo. Dentre os fatores predisponentes à relatada infecção fúngica sistêmica, destaca-se o status imunológico debilitado do paciente, possivelmente proporcionado por tratamentos prolongados com antibióticos e anti-inflamatórios esteroidais. O presente trabalho relata o primeiro caso descrito de arpergilose sistêmica no Brasil. O diagnóstico definitivo só foi possível após necropsia e histopatologia, visto que os sinais clínicos inespecíficos não foram determinantes para o diagnóstico em vida.(AU)

This paper reports the case of systemic aspergillosis on a Quarter Horse. The animal had progressive weight loss and alopecia. The parameters evaluated during the clinical examination were in agreement with the normal values for the species. The hemogram showed neutrophilic leukocytosis, without left-sided, elevated total plasma proteins and an increase in fibrinogen, indicating an inflammatory process accompanied by dehydration. Serum biochemical tests showed an increase in the value of urea. Despite the performed tests and established therapy with broad spectrum antibiotics and nutritional support, after 51 days of hospitalization the clinical condition evolved into cachexia and permanent decubitus of the patient which underwent to euthanasia and necropsy. From the findings of necropsy and histopathology, systemic infection was diagnosed by Aspergillus sp., affecting the lungs, liver, kidneys, parietal peritoneum and encephalon. Among the factors predisposing to the reported systemic fungal infection, the patient's weakened immune status is highlighted, possibly due to prolonged antibiotic and steroidal anti-inflammatory treatments. This paper reports the first case described of systemic aspergillosis in Brazil. Definitive diagnosis was only possible after necropsy and histopathology, since nonspecific clinical signs were not determinant for the diagnosis in life.(AU)

Candidose sistêmica em cães associada à cinomose / Systemic candidosis in dogs associated with canine distemper virus

Background: Candidosis is an opportunistic fungal infection caused by yeasts of the genus Candida, which normally reside on the surfaces of the mucous membranes and in the skin of several animal species and healthy humans; however the fungi can convert into pathogenic microorganisms and result in invasive infections with systemic involvement due to the impairment of the immune system. Systemic candidosis is rare in dogs and few reports of this mycosis are available in literature. Therefore, the objective of this study was to describe three cases of systemic candidosis associated to canine distemper virus in dogs, highlighting the main epidemiological, clinical and pathological aspects. Cases: Three cases of systemic infection by Candida sp. were diagnosed in dogs. The animals predominantly presented neurological clinical manifestations, followed by unspecific alterations with an evolution of 5 to 30 days. Macroscopically, the lesions were characterized by white-yellowish multifocal to coalescent areas surrounded by reddish borders in the kidneys and heart (cases 1, 2 and 3); liver and submandibular lymph node (case 1); and lung (case 2). In the brains of the three dogs were observed multifocal, blackened and/or reddish and friable areas. In case 1, was observed an increased volume of the right carpometacarpal joint, that when cut, released a reddish and turbid content. In case 2, there was deposition of a whitish lumpy material on the epicardial surface, aorta artery, pericardial sac and spleen; infarction on the right testicle, hydroureter, pyelonephritis and hydronephrosis. Microscopically, the lesions consisted of necrossupurative inflammation associated to hemorrhage, vasculitis, congestion, thrombosis, infarction and fungal structures with distinct morphological patterns which included blastoconidia, pseudohyphae and hyphae. The fungal structures were...

Candidose sistêmica em cães associada à cinomose / Systemic candidosis in dogs associated with canine distemper virus

Background: Candidosis is an opportunistic fungal infection caused by yeasts of the genus Candida, which normally reside on the surfaces of the mucous membranes and in the skin of several animal species and healthy humans; however the fungi can convert into pathogenic microorganisms and result in invasive infections with systemic involvement due to the impairment of the immune system. Systemic candidosis is rare in dogs and few reports of this mycosis are available in literature. Therefore, the objective of this study was to describe three cases of systemic candidosis associated to canine distemper virus in dogs, highlighting the main epidemiological, clinical and pathological aspects. Cases: Three cases of systemic infection by Candida sp. were diagnosed in dogs. The animals predominantly presented neurological clinical manifestations, followed by unspecific alterations with an evolution of 5 to 30 days. Macroscopically, the lesions were characterized by white-yellowish multifocal to coalescent areas surrounded by reddish borders in the kidneys and heart (cases 1, 2 and 3); liver and submandibular lymph node (case 1); and lung (case 2). In the brains of the three dogs were observed multifocal, blackened and/or reddish and friable areas. In case 1, was observed an increased volume of the right carpometacarpal joint, that when cut, released a reddish and turbid content. In case 2, there was deposition of a whitish lumpy material on the epicardial surface, aorta artery, pericardial sac and spleen; infarction on the right testicle, hydroureter, pyelonephritis and hydronephrosis. Microscopically, the lesions consisted of necrossupurative inflammation associated to hemorrhage, vasculitis, congestion, thrombosis, infarction and fungal structures with distinct morphological patterns which included blastoconidia, pseudohyphae and hyphae. The fungal structures were...(AU)

Anemia hemolítica imunomediada primária em cães - Revisão de literatura / Primary immune-mediated hemolytic anemia in dogs - Literature review / Anemia hemolítica inmunomediada primaria en perros ­ Revisión de literatura

A anemia hemolítica imunomediada (AHIM) é o distúrbio imunológico de maior prevalência em cães. Caracteriza-se como uma hipersensibilidade do tipo II, que leva a destruição prematura de hemácias. Dentre as principais complicações, o estado de hipercoagulabilidade predispondo a coagulação intravascular disseminada e tromboembolismo pulmonar é a mais importante, sendo a causa de óbito em mais de 80% dos casos. O diagnóstico é realizado a partir da exclusão de outras causas para anemia e por meio da constatação de um ou mais desses sinais: anemia moderada a grave (hematócrito <25-35%), evidências de hemólise (hemoglobinemia, hemoglobinúria ou hiperbilirrubinemia) e presença de anticorpos na hemácia (caracterizado a partir da auto-aglutinação, esferocitose, teste de Coombs positivo ou citometria de fluxo). O tratamento é direcionado à supressão da resposta imune, sendo os corticosteroides e os imunossupressores, os fármacos de predileção.(AU)

Immune-mediated hemolytic anemia (IMHA) is the most prevalent immune disorder among dogs. It is characterized as type II hypersensitivity, leading to premature destruction of red blood cells. Among the main complications, hypercoagulability predisposing to disseminated intravascular coagulation and pulmonary thromboembolism is the most important, being the cause of death in more than 80% of the cases. The diagnosis is made by excluding other causes for anemia and the presence of one or more of these signs: moderate to severe anemia (hematocrit <25-35%), evidence of hemolysis (hemoglobinemia, hemoglobinuria or hyperbilirubinemia) and presence of antibodies in the erythrocyte (characterized by self-agglutination, spherocytosis, positive Coombs test, or flow cytometry). Treatment is directed to suppression of the immune response, with corticosteroids and immunosuppressants the drugs of predilection.(AU)

La anemia hemolítica inmunomediada (AHIM) es el disturbio inmunológico con mayor prevalencia en perros. Es definido como una hipersensibilidad tipo II, que lleva a destrucción prematura de hematíes. Dentro de las principales complicaciones, el estado de hipercoagulabilidad que predispone a coagulación intravascular diseminada y tromboembolismo pulmonar es el más importante, siendo la causa de muerte en más de 80% de los casos. El diagnóstico se realiza excluyendo otras causas de anemia y confirmando una o más de las siguientes alteraciones: anemia moderada a grave (hematocrito <25-35%), evidencias de hemolisis (hemoglobinemia, hemoglobinuria o hiperbilirrubinemia) y presencia de anticuerpos en hematíes (caracterizado a partir de autoaglutinación, esferocitosis, test de Coombs positivo o citometría de flujo). El tratamiento se basa en la supresión de la respuesta inmune, siendo los cortico esteroides y los inmunosupresores los fármacos de elección.(AU)

Environmental aspects and diseases related to immunosuppression in cetaceans: a concise review / Aspectos ambientais e infecciosos relacionados à imunossupressão em cetáceos: uma breve revisão

The analysis of the health status of sentinel animals is a key element for the evaluation of ecosystem health conditions, since these animals respond to small and large scale changes in ecological factors and the quality of the environment. In the marine environment, the changes are systemic and accumulate impacts of coastal zones and oceanic activities, with aquatic mammals being species that reflect changes in biological and health parameters. For these animals several studies have reported an increase in the frequency and diversity of diseases, including infections by pathogens from the terrestrial environment. This increase may be related to impairment of the immune system activity of these organisms in response to potential synergistic factors. In cetaceans, immunosuppression may be caused by infection with viral agents, such as Morbillivirus, which induce severe lymphoid depletion and is responsible for several cases of mass mortality; chemical contamination, highlighting the organochlorines and trace elements (mainly mercury and cadmium); and even by chronic stress. Anthropic impacts are important stressors, and the consequences are more evident in animals of coastal habits, which leads to a constant release of glucocorticoid hormones and consequent lymphoid depletion, a mechanism similar to that occurring in terrestrial mammals. Immunosuppressed animals are susceptible to opportunistic diseases, some more severe and rare, with the risk of decline of populations. The objective of this review was to provide information on the aspects related to immunosuppression in cetaceans, associating etiological factors and pathological findings, and to highlight the relevance of the evaluation of the endocrine and immune system of marine animals as a reflection of the health status of marine ecosystems.(AU)

A análise do estado de saúde de animais sentinela é elemento-chave para avaliação das condições da saúde ecossistêmica, pois estes animais respondem a mudanças em pequena e larga escala em fatores ecológicos e da qualidade do ambiente. No ambiente marinho, as alterações são sistêmicas e acumulam impactos das zonas costeiras e de atividades oceânicas, sendo os mamíferos aquáticos espécies que refletem as mudanças em parâmetros biológicos e de saúde. Para estes animais diversos estudos vêm relatando um aumento da frequência e diversidade de doenças, incluindo infecções por patógenos provenientes do ambiente terrestre. Este aumento pode estar relacionado ao comprometimento da atividade do sistema imunológico destes organismos em resposta à potenciais fatores sinérgicos. Em cetáceos, a imunossupressão pode ter como causas a infecção por agentes virais, como o Morbillivirus, que induz severa depleção linfoide e é responsável por diversos casos de mortalidade em massa; a contaminação química, destacando os organoclorados e elementos traço (principalmente o mercúrio e o cádmio); e mesmo pelo estresse crônico. Impactos antrópicos são importantes agentes estressores, sendo mais evidentes as consequências em animais de hábitos costeiros, os quais acarretam uma constante liberação de hormônios glicocorticoides e consequente depleção linfoide, mecanismo semelhante ao que ocorre nos mamíferos terrestres. Os animais imunossuprimidos são vulneráveis às doenças oportunistas, algumas mais severas e raras, com risco de dizimar populações. O objetivo desta revisão foi compilar informações sobre os aspectos relacionados à imunossupressão em cetáceos, associando fatores etiológicos e achados patológicos, e destacar a relevância da avaliação do sistema endócrino e imunológico em animais marinhos como reflexo do estado de saúde dos ecossistemas marinhos.(AU)

Characterization of immune and enteric systems of broilers after imunosupression with dexamethasone

Background: Bursa of Fabricius (BF) and the thymus are primary lymphoid organs of poultry and play a major role in avian immunity. Enteric system is also involved in immunity. Several pathologic conditions directly impact BF and thymus size, and also affect intestinal parameters. Besides, there are several immune system depressor agents which affect birds. The selection of glucocorticoid as inducer of immunosuppression is applied in many experiments; however there are few studies that are applied to the reality in the field. In this context, the aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of dexamethasone as an inducer of immunosuppression on lymphoid organs and microscopic structures of the jejunum.Materials, Methods & Results: One-day-old chicks were used as a control group (n = 8) and the treated group (n = 25) received intramuscular dexamethasone on 21, 23, 24 and 26 day-old. Control birds and treated birds were euthanized 8, 16, 24, 32 and 40 h after inoculation; four control birds and six treated birds were euthanized on the eighth day after the last inoculation. Thymus, BF and jejunum were collected during the necropsy. The selected organs were processed, stained with hematoxylin and eosin and photographed. The BF and thymus cuts were evaluated by three histopathologists to determine the depletion score. Ten villi of each jejunum were evaluated for width and length of villi, depth crypt, microvillus length, enterocyte length of each villus, and wall thickness. Treated birds presented a mean weight lower than control group during all the experiment. The mean weight and the relative weight of the BF and thymus of control birds were significantly higher than treated ones. The lymphocyte depletion in BF and thymus scores differed significantly between groups, being higher in the group challenged with dexamethasone. There were no significant differences between groups for depth of crypt, height of core and height of microvilli.[...]

Characterization of immune and enteric systems of broilers after imunosupression with dexamethasone

Background: Bursa of Fabricius (BF) and the thymus are primary lymphoid organs of poultry and play a major role in avian immunity. Enteric system is also involved in immunity. Several pathologic conditions directly impact BF and thymus size, and also affect intestinal parameters. Besides, there are several immune system depressor agents which affect birds. The selection of glucocorticoid as inducer of immunosuppression is applied in many experiments; however there are few studies that are applied to the reality in the field. In this context, the aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of dexamethasone as an inducer of immunosuppression on lymphoid organs and microscopic structures of the jejunum.Materials, Methods & Results: One-day-old chicks were used as a control group (n = 8) and the treated group (n = 25) received intramuscular dexamethasone on 21, 23, 24 and 26 day-old. Control birds and treated birds were euthanized 8, 16, 24, 32 and 40 h after inoculation; four control birds and six treated birds were euthanized on the eighth day after the last inoculation. Thymus, BF and jejunum were collected during the necropsy. The selected organs were processed, stained with hematoxylin and eosin and photographed. The BF and thymus cuts were evaluated by three histopathologists to determine the depletion score. Ten villi of each jejunum were evaluated for width and length of villi, depth crypt, microvillus length, enterocyte length of each villus, and wall thickness. Treated birds presented a mean weight lower than control group during all the experiment. The mean weight and the relative weight of the BF and thymus of control birds were significantly higher than treated ones. The lymphocyte depletion in BF and thymus scores differed significantly between groups, being higher in the group challenged with dexamethasone. There were no significant differences between groups for depth of crypt, height of core and height of microvilli.[...](AU)

Histopathological assessment of the liver during experimental infection with Leishmania (Leishmania) chagasi in immunosuppressed BALB/c mice / Avaliação histopatológica do fígado durante a infecção experimental por Leishmania chagasi (Leishmania) em camundongos BALB / c imunossuprimidos / Evaluación histopatológico del hígado durante la infección experimental por Leishmania chagasi (Leishmania) en ratones BALB / c con inmunosupresión

BALB/c mice were experimentally infected with L. (L.) chagasi and immunosuppressed for the study of the histopathological changes present in their liver. The 96 studied mice were subdivided into four groups: control (I) no treatment; immunosuppressed (II) treatment with dexamethasone (DXM) and pentoxifylline (PTX); infected (III) infection with L. (L.) chagasi; and infected and immunosuppressed (IV) - infection with L. (L.) chagasi and treatment with DXM and PTX. The day of infection was considered the day zero and immunosuppression occurred at 60 days P.I. Samples were obtained at distinct moments, 15, 30, 60, 75 and 90 days P.I., by collecting liver fragments for histopathological assessment. There was progressive and constant inflammatory reaction of inflammatory infiltrate and complete granulomas, which was renewed in all observation phases. For inoculated groups, the presence of amastigotes was confirmed by means of immunohistochemistry. The immunosuppressed group showed weak inflammatory reaction and rare incomplete granulomas. Immunosuppression influenced the immune response of the liver, which is capable of controlling murine visceral leishmaniasis.(AU)

Camundongos BALB / c foram infectados experimentalmente com L. (L.) chagasi e imunossuprimidos para estudar as alterações histopatológicas no fígado presente. Os 96 ratos estudados foram divididos em quatro grupos: controle (I) - sem tratamento; imunossuprimidos (II) - O tratamento com dexametasona (DXM) e pentoxifilina (PTX); infectado (III) - infecção por L. chagasi (L.); e infectados e imunodeprimidos (IV) - infecção por L. chagasi (L.) e tratamento com DXM e PTX. O dia da infecção foi considerado o dia zero e imunossupressão ocorreu 60 dias P.I. As amostras foram obtidas em vários momentos, 15, 30, 60, 75 e 90 dias P.I., por coleta de fragmentos de fígado para avaliação histopatológica. Houve constante reação inflamatória e infiltrado inflamatório progressivo e granulomas completos, que foi renovado em todas as fases de observação. Para os grupos inoculados, a presença de amastigotas foi confirmada por imuno-histoquímica. O grupo de imunodeprimidos apresentou uma resposta inflamatória fraca e granulomas raros e incompletos. Imunossupressão influenciou a resposta imune do fígado, que é capaz de controlar a leishmaniose visceral murina.(AU)

Ratones BALB / c se infectaron experimentalmente con L. chagasi (L.) y inmunosuprimidos para el estudio de los cambios histopatológicos presentes en su hígado. Los 96 ratones estudiados se dividieron en cuatro grupos: control (I) - sin tratamiento; inmunosuprimidos (II) - El tratamiento con dexametasona (DXM) y pentoxifilina (PTX); infectada (III) - la infección con L. chagasi (L.); y infectada y inmunosuprimidos (IV) - infección con L. chagasi (L.) y el tratamiento con DXM y PTX. El día de la infección fue considerado como el día cero y la inmunosupresión se produjo a 60 días P.I. Las muestras se obtuvieron en momentos distintos, 15, 30, 60, 75 y 90 días P.I., mediante la recopilación de fragmentos de hígado para la evaluación histopatológica. Hubo reacción inflamatoria progresiva y constante de infiltrado inflamatorio y granulomas completos, que fue renovado en todas las fases de observación. Para los grupos inoculados, la presencia de amastigotes se confirmó por medio de inmunohistoquímica. El grupo inmunosuprimidos mostró una reacción inflamatoria débil y granulomas incompletas raras. Inmunosupresión influyó en la respuesta inmune del hígado, que es capaz de controlar la leishmaniosis visceral murino.(AU)

Histopathological assessment of the liver during experimental infection with Leishmania (Leishmania) chagasi in immunosuppressed BALB/c mice / Avaliação histopatológica do fígado durante a infecção experimental por Leishmania chagasi (Leishmania) em camundongos BALB / c imunossuprimidos / Evaluación histopatológico del hígado durante la infección experimental por Leishmania chagasi (Leishmania) en ratones BALB / c con inmunosupresión

BALB/c mice were experimentally infected with L. (L.) chagasi and immunosuppressed for the study of the histopathological changes present in their liver. The 96 studied mice were subdivided into four groups: control (I) – no treatment; immunosuppressed (II) – treatment with dexamethasone (DXM) and pentoxifylline (PTX); infected (III) – infection with L. (L.) chagasi; and infected and immunosuppressed (IV) - infection with L. (L.) chagasi and treatment with DXM and PTX. The day of infection was considered the day zero and immunosuppression occurred at 60 days P.I. Samples were obtained at distinct moments, 15, 30, 60, 75 and 90 days P.I., by collecting liver fragments for histopathological assessment. There was progressive and constant inflammatory reaction of inflammatory infiltrate and complete granulomas, which was renewed in all observation phases. For inoculated groups, the presence of amastigotes was confirmed by means of immunohistochemistry. The immunosuppressed group showed weak inflammatory reaction and rare incomplete granulomas. Immunosuppression influenced the immune response of the liver, which is capable of controlling murine visceral leishmaniasis.

Camundongos BALB / c foram infectados experimentalmente com L. (L.) chagasi e imunossuprimidos para estudar as alterações histopatológicas no fígado presente. Os 96 ratos estudados foram divididos em quatro grupos: controle (I) - sem tratamento; imunossuprimidos (II) - O tratamento com dexametasona (DXM) e pentoxifilina (PTX); infectado (III) - infecção por L. chagasi (L.); e infectados e imunodeprimidos (IV) - infecção por L. chagasi (L.) e tratamento com DXM e PTX. O dia da infecção foi considerado o dia zero e imunossupressão ocorreu 60 dias P.I. As amostras foram obtidas em vários momentos, 15, 30, 60, 75 e 90 dias P.I., por coleta de fragmentos de fígado para avaliação histopatológica. Houve constante reação inflamatória e infiltrado inflamatório progressivo e granulomas completos, que foi renovado em todas as fases de observação. Para os grupos inoculados, a presença de amastigotas foi confirmada por imuno-histoquímica. O grupo de imunodeprimidos apresentou uma resposta inflamatória fraca e granulomas raros e incompletos. Imunossupressão influenciou a resposta imune do fígado, que é capaz de controlar a leishmaniose visceral murina.

Ratones BALB / c se infectaron experimentalmente con L. chagasi (L.) y inmunosuprimidos para el estudio de los cambios histopatológicos presentes en su hígado. Los 96 ratones estudiados se dividieron en cuatro grupos: control (I) - sin tratamiento; inmunosuprimidos (II) - El tratamiento con dexametasona (DXM) y pentoxifilina (PTX); infectada (III) - la infección con L. chagasi (L.); y infectada y inmunosuprimidos (IV) - infección con L. chagasi (L.) y el tratamiento con DXM y PTX. El día de la infección fue considerado como el día cero y la inmunosupresión se produjo a 60 días P.I. Las muestras se obtuvieron en momentos distintos, 15, 30, 60, 75 y 90 días P.I., mediante la recopilación de fragmentos de hígado para la evaluación histopatológica. Hubo reacción inflamatoria progresiva y constante de infiltrado inflamatorio y granulomas completos, que fue renovado en todas las fases de observación. Para los grupos inoculados, la presencia de amastigotes se confirmó por medio de inmunohistoquímica. El grupo inmunosuprimidos mostró una reacción inflamatoria débil y granulomas incompletas raras. Inmunosupresión influyó en la respuesta inmune del hígado, que es capaz de controlar la leishmaniosis visceral murino.

Imunidade celular em vacas Holandesas soropositivas para o Vírus da Leucose Bovina (BLV) durante o período de transição / Cellular immunity in Holstein cows seropositive for Bovine Leukosis Virus (BLV) during the transition period

Esta pesquisa avaliou a dinâmica dos leucócitos e das subpopulações de linfócitos em vacas Holandesas soropositivas para o BLV no período de transição. Amostras de sangue (n=72) provenientes de 12 vacas foram coletadas entre as semanas -2 e +3 para a realização do leucograma, imunofenotipagem, dosagem de cortisol e haptoglobina (Hp). O perfil leucocitário foi caracterizado por leucocitose, neutrofilia, monocitose e eosinopenia próximo ao parto. Linfocitose e elevada proporção de linfócitos B CD21+ foram achados constantes entre as semanas -2 e +3; assim, as vacas foram testadas e confirmadas soropositivas para o BLV. Os valores das subpopulações de linfócitos T apresentaram-se baixos durante o período de transição, observando-se dois picos máximos que coincidiram com as elevações nas concentrações de cortisol no parto (2,11µg/dL) e semana +3 (1,97µg/dL). Hp apresentou aumento crescente de -2 (166µg/mL) a +3 (576µg/mL), provavelmente associada à elevada taxa de infecções uterinas observadas nas semanas +2 e +3. As vacas soropositivas para o BLV apresentaram leucograma de estresse próximo ao parto, exceto para linfócitos. A linfocitose e as elevadas proporções de células B CD21+, associadas com as baixas proporções de células T, podem ser indicativo de imunossupressão e predisposição aos processos inflamatórios no período pós-parto.(AU)

This research evaluated the dynamics of leukocytes and lymphocytes subsets in seropositive Holstein cows for BLV during the transition period. Blood samples (n=72) from 12 cows were harvested from week -2 up to week +3 to perform leukogram, immunophenotyping, cortisol and haptoglobin (Hp). Leukocytes pattern was characterized by leukocytosis, neutrophilia, monocytosis and eosinopenia around calving. Lymphocytosis and high proportions of B cells CD21+ were a constant finding between week -2 and +3, thus cows were tested and confirmed seropositive for BLV. The values of T lymphocytes subsets were low during the transition period, observing two peaks that coincided with high levels of cortisol at delivery (2.11µg/dL) and week +3 (1.97µg/dL). Hp had gradual increase from week -2 (166µg/mL) until week +3 (576g/mL) probably due to high rate of uterine infection detected between week +2 and +3. The seropositive cows for BLV presented stress leukogram around delivery, except for lymphocytes. Lymphocytosis and the high proportions of B cells, associated with the low proportions of T lymphocytes, can be indicative of immunosuppression and predisposition to the inflammatory process observed in the post-partum period.(AU)

Imunidade celular em vacas Holandesas soropositivas para o Vírus da Leucose Bovina (BLV) durante o período de transição / Cellular immunity in Holstein cows seropositive for Bovine Leukosis Virus (BLV) during the transition period

Esta pesquisa avaliou a dinâmica dos leucócitos e das subpopulações de linfócitos em vacas Holandesas soropositivas para o BLV no período de transição. Amostras de sangue (n=72) provenientes de 12 vacas foram coletadas entre as semanas -2 e +3 para a realização do leucograma, imunofenotipagem, dosagem de cortisol e haptoglobina (Hp). O perfil leucocitário foi caracterizado por leucocitose, neutrofilia, monocitose e eosinopenia próximo ao parto. Linfocitose e elevada proporção de linfócitos B CD21+ foram achados constantes entre as semanas -2 e +3; assim, as vacas foram testadas e confirmadas soropositivas para o BLV. Os valores das subpopulações de linfócitos T apresentaram-se baixos durante o período de transição, observando-se dois picos máximos que coincidiram com as elevações nas concentrações de cortisol no parto (2,11µg/dL) e semana +3 (1,97µg/dL). Hp apresentou aumento crescente de -2 (166µg/mL) a +3 (576µg/mL), provavelmente associada à elevada taxa de infecções uterinas observadas nas semanas +2 e +3. As vacas soropositivas para o BLV apresentaram leucograma de estresse próximo ao parto, exceto para linfócitos. A linfocitose e as elevadas proporções de células B CD21+, associadas com as baixas proporções de células T, podem ser indicativo de imunossupressão e predisposição aos processos inflamatórios no período pós-parto.(AU)

This research evaluated the dynamics of leukocytes and lymphocytes subsets in seropositive Holstein cows for BLV during the transition period. Blood samples (n=72) from 12 cows were harvested from week -2 up to week +3 to perform leukogram, immunophenotyping, cortisol and haptoglobin (Hp). Leukocytes pattern was characterized by leukocytosis, neutrophilia, monocytosis and eosinopenia around calving. Lymphocytosis and high proportions of B cells CD21+ were a constant finding between week -2 and +3, thus cows were tested and confirmed seropositive for BLV. The values of T lymphocytes subsets were low during the transition period, observing two peaks that coincided with high levels of cortisol at delivery (2.11µg/dL) and week +3 (1.97µg/dL). Hp had gradual increase from week -2 (166µg/mL) until week +3 (576g/mL) probably due to high rate of uterine infection detected between week +2 and +3. The seropositive cows for BLV presented stress leukogram around delivery, except for lymphocytes. Lymphocytosis and the high proportions of B cells, associated with the low proportions of T lymphocytes, can be indicative of immunosuppression and predisposition to the inflammatory process observed in the post-partum period.(AU)

Feline demodicosis by Demodex cati / Demodiciose felina por Demodex cati

Background: Feline demodicosis is considered an uncommon dermatopathy in cats that is mainly caused by the mite Demodex cati, but in few cases D. gatoi may be involved. Although the clinical aspects and pathogeny of feline demodicosis are not completely understood, its clinical expression is believed to be associated with the presence of primary immunosuppressive agents. Thus, the aim of this study is to report the diagnosis and treatment of an infested cat by D. cati, associated with mixed intestinal parasitic infection.Case: An approximately 1-year-old male short hair cat which was grown in a rural area was presented at the Veterinary Hospital of the Federal University of Pampa (Unipampa) in Uruguaiana, Rio Grande do Sul. The cat had alopecia, itching, excoriations on neck and head, and softened feces as clinical signs. Performed skin scrapings revealed eggs, larvae and adult forms of D. cati. In order to find possible immunosuppressive agents, exams for detection of feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) and feline leukemia virus (FeLV) were also performed. They revealed, however, negative results for FIV and FeLV infections. Moreover, coproparasitologic analysis revealed the presence of the intestinal parasites Trichuris sp., Ancylostoma sp., and Spirometra mansonoides. Thus, it was decided to proceed the treatment utilizing 0.2 mg/kg of moxidectin subcutaneously every four [...]

Feline demodicosis by Demodex cati / Demodiciose felina por Demodex cati

Background: Feline demodicosis is considered an uncommon dermatopathy in cats that is mainly caused by the mite Demodex cati, but in few cases D. gatoi may be involved. Although the clinical aspects and pathogeny of feline demodicosis are not completely understood, its clinical expression is believed to be associated with the presence of primary immunosuppressive agents. Thus, the aim of this study is to report the diagnosis and treatment of an infested cat by D. cati, associated with mixed intestinal parasitic infection.Case: An approximately 1-year-old male short hair cat which was grown in a rural area was presented at the Veterinary Hospital of the Federal University of Pampa (Unipampa) in Uruguaiana, Rio Grande do Sul. The cat had alopecia, itching, excoriations on neck and head, and softened feces as clinical signs. Performed skin scrapings revealed eggs, larvae and adult forms of D. cati. In order to find possible immunosuppressive agents, exams for detection of feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) and feline leukemia virus (FeLV) were also performed. They revealed, however, negative results for FIV and FeLV infections. Moreover, coproparasitologic analysis revealed the presence of the intestinal parasites Trichuris sp., Ancylostoma sp., and Spirometra mansonoides. Thus, it was decided to proceed the treatment utilizing 0.2 mg/kg of moxidectin subcutaneously every four [...](AU)

Abscessos cutâneos múltiplos no pós-operatório de cão portador de Ehrlichiose subclínica / Multiple skin abscesses in the postoperative dog with subclinical ehrlichiosis

A Ehrlichiose canina, também conhecida como pancitopenia tropical dos cães, constitui umaenfermidade de grande prevalência em regiões de clima tropical como o Brasil. Diversos animais permanecemdoentes na fase subclínica da doença. O presente estudo tem por objetivo relatar a ocorrência de infecçãosubclínica por Ehrlichia associada à presença de abscessos subcutâneos múltiplos. O cão apresentou infecção notecido subcutâneo após procedimentos cirúrgicos; apesar da avaliação hematológica normal no momento pré-cirúrgico. O envolvimento do gênero Ehrlichia foi confirmado apenas após repetição seriada do hemograma.Sugere-se que imunossupressão gerada pela Ehrlichiose subclínica possibilitou a ocorrência das infecçõescutâneas caracterizando um processo infeccioso misto neste paciente

Canine Ehrlichiosis, also known as dogs’ tropical pancytopenia, is highly prevalent disease intropical regions such as Brazil. Many animals may not recover the subclinical stage of the disease. This studyaims to report the occurrence of subclinical infection by Ehrlichia associated with the presence of multiplesubcutaneous abscesses. The dog presented infection in the subcutaneous tissue after surgery; despite normalhematologic evaluation in pre-surgical time. The involvement of the Ehrlichia gender was only confirmed afterserial repetition of hemograms. It’s suggested that immunosuppression generated by subclinical Ehrlichiosismade the occurrence of skin infeccions possible characterizing a mixed infeccion process in this pacient

Abscessos cutâneos múltiplos no pós-operatório de cão portador de Ehrlichiose subclínica / Multiple skin abscesses in the postoperative dog with subclinical ehrlichiosis

A Ehrlichiose canina, também conhecida como pancitopenia tropical dos cães, constitui umaenfermidade de grande prevalência em regiões de clima tropical como o Brasil. Diversos animais permanecemdoentes na fase subclínica da doença. O presente estudo tem por objetivo relatar a ocorrência de infecçãosubclínica por Ehrlichia associada à presença de abscessos subcutâneos múltiplos. O cão apresentou infecção notecido subcutâneo após procedimentos cirúrgicos; apesar da avaliação hematológica normal no momento pré-cirúrgico. O envolvimento do gênero Ehrlichia foi confirmado apenas após repetição seriada do hemograma.Sugere-se que imunossupressão gerada pela Ehrlichiose subclínica possibilitou a ocorrência das infecçõescutâneas caracterizando um processo infeccioso misto neste paciente(AU)

Canine Ehrlichiosis, also known as dogs tropical pancytopenia, is highly prevalent disease intropical regions such as Brazil. Many animals may not recover the subclinical stage of the disease. This studyaims to report the occurrence of subclinical infection by Ehrlichia associated with the presence of multiplesubcutaneous abscesses. The dog presented infection in the subcutaneous tissue after surgery; despite normalhematologic evaluation in pre-surgical time. The involvement of the Ehrlichia gender was only confirmed afterserial repetition of hemograms. Its suggested that immunosuppression generated by subclinical Ehrlichiosismade the occurrence of skin infeccions possible characterizing a mixed infeccion process in this pacient(AU)

Microsporidiosis in rabbits of a laboratory animal facility: histopathological findings / Microsporidiose em coelhos de biotério de criação: achados histopatológicos

Encephalitozoonosis is a zoonotic microsporidiosis present in creations of rabbits and one of the most important diseases reported in rabbits. Thirty rabbits from commercial breeding were received for quarantine in a laboratory animal facility for scientific purposes and during the period showed symptoms as: loss of appetite, anorexia, head tilt, mucopurulent conjunctivitis, nasal serous secretion and subcutaneous abscess in the neck, some came to death and the rest were euthanized after not responding to treatment. The histopathological findings showed lesions in kidneys, liver, spleen and brain with the presence of cysts similar to Encephalitozoon in part of the organsidentifying an outbreak of microsporidiosis in rabbits.

A encefalitozoonose é uma microsporidiose zoonótica presente em criações de coelhos e é uma das mais importantes doenças relatadas em coelhos. Trinta coelhos provenientes de criação comercial foram recebidos para quarentena em um biotério de criação para fins científicos e durante o período começaram a apresentar sintomas diversos, como: inapetência, anorexia, torcicolo, conjuntivite mucopurulenta, secreção nasal serosa e abscesso subcutâneo na região do pescoço, vindo alguns a óbito e sendo os restantes eutanasiados após não responderem ao tratamento instituído. Os achados histopatológicos demonstraram lesões nos rins, fígado, baço e cérebro com a presença de cistos semelhantes a Encephalitozoon em parte dos órgãos identificando um surto de microsporidiose em coelhos.

Microsporidiosis in rabbits of a laboratory animal facility: histopathological findings / Microsporidiose em coelhos de biotério de criação: achados histopatológicos

Encephalitozoonosis is a zoonotic microsporidiosis present in creations of rabbits and one of the most important diseases reported in rabbits. Thirty rabbits from commercial breeding were received for quarantine in a laboratory animal facility for scientific purposes and during the period showed symptoms as: loss of appetite, anorexia, head tilt, mucopurulent conjunctivitis, nasal serous secretion and subcutaneous abscess in the neck, some came to death and the rest were euthanized after not responding to treatment. The histopathological findings showed lesions in kidneys, liver, spleen and brain with the presence of cysts similar to Encephalitozoon in part of the organsidentifying an outbreak of microsporidiosis in rabbits. (AU)

A encefalitozoonose é uma microsporidiose zoonótica presente em criações de coelhos e é uma das mais importantes doenças relatadas em coelhos. Trinta coelhos provenientes de criação comercial foram recebidos para quarentena em um biotério de criação para fins científicos e durante o período começaram a apresentar sintomas diversos, como: inapetência, anorexia, torcicolo, conjuntivite mucopurulenta, secreção nasal serosa e abscesso subcutâneo na região do pescoço, vindo alguns a óbito e sendo os restantes eutanasiados após não responderem ao tratamento instituído. Os achados histopatológicos demonstraram lesões nos rins, fígado, baço e cérebro com a presença de cistos semelhantes a Encephalitozoon em parte dos órgãos identificando um surto de microsporidiose em coelhos. (AU)

Associação de sulfato de vincristina e Propionibacterium acnes no tratamento de papilomatose oral canina relato de caso / Association of vincristine sulfate and Propionibacterium acnes in treatment of canine oral papillomatosis - case report

The oral papillomatosis is a benign epithelial neoplasm of viral etiology that affects mainly young and immunosuppressed animals, characterized by the development of proliferative masses called papillomas. The therapy of this disease is controversial and there isnt a highly effective treatment protocol yet. This study aims to report the use of a therapeutic protocol involving vincristine sulfate to immunostimulatory the basis of Propionibacterium acnes and liposaccharides of Escherichia coli in the treatment of oral papillomatosis in a dog. The treatment protocol consisted of weekly administration of vincristine intravenously starting at a dose of 0,025mg/kg; 0.035 mg/kg during the second week; and then 0.05mg/kg. P. acnes has administered at a dose of 1 ml intramuscularly according to the manufacturer"s indications (1 ml/10 kg) every 15 days. From the third week, there was the beginning of the involution of papillomas that were gradually receding until complete resolution of the disease in three months. In this case, the using therapy proved effective, since it has provided a cure of the disease. Thus, this therapeutic protocol may be an alternative for cases refractory to usual therapy with Thuya occidentalis.

A papilomatose oral é uma neoplasia epitelial benigna de etiologia viral que acomete, principalmente, animais jovens e imunossuprimidos, sendo caracterizada pelo desenvolvimento de massas proliferativas denominadas de papilomas. A terapia dessa enfermidade é assunto controverso, e até o momento, não há um protocolo terapêutico altamente eficaz. Assim, este trabalho tem como objetivo relatar a utilização de um protocolo terapêutico associando Sulfato de vincristina ao imunoestimulante a base de Propionibacterium acnes e lipossacarideos de Escherichia coli no tratamento de papilomatose oral em um cão. O protocolo terapêutico consistiu na administração semanal de vincristina por via intravenosa, iniciando com a dose de 0,025mg/kg; 0,035mg/kg na segunda semana; e, posteriormente, 0,05mg/kg. O P. acnes foi administrado na dose de 1ml por via intramuscular, segundo a indicação do fabricante (1ml/10kg), a cada 15 dias. A partir da terceira semana, observou-se o início da involução dos papilomas, que foram regredindo progressivamente até a resolução completa da doença em três meses. No presente caso, a terapia empregada mostrou ser eficaz, uma vez que proporcionou a cura da doença. Dessa maneira, esse protocolo terapêutico pode ser uma alternativa para casos refratários à terapia usual com Thuya occidentalis.