Oxidative stress, ceruloplasmin and neopterin biomarkers in dromedary camels with clinical endometritis

The purpose of this study is to investigate the role of some oxidative stress (OS), ceruloplasmin (Cp), and neopterin (NPT) as diagnostic biomarkers for dromedary camels endometritis as well as to explore the impact of ceftiofur treatment on endometritis. Camels were categorized into two groups; healthy control group (n = 20) and endometritis group (n = 60). She-camels with clinical signs of endometritis (CE) received 6.6 mg/kg BW of ceftiofur (i/m). On days 7, and 14, she-camels were evaluated and clinical cure or failure to cure was determined. The comparison of the groups for OS demonstrated that endometritis caused an increase in serum malondialdehyde (sMDA), Cp, and NPT levels (P<0.05), but decreased serum levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione (GSH) (P<0.05). The most prevalent pathogens involved in the etiology of CE are Arcanobacterium pyogenes, Streptococcus pyogenes, and Staphylococcus aureus. All examined biomarkers demonstrated a high degree of recognition between CE camel and healthy controls (the area under the curve (AUC) was 95.9 for NPT). A higher proportion of camels with CE that were treated with ceftiofur (90%, P<0.0001) showed clinical cure by the first dose, while 10% required a second dose. In conclusion, CE causes increased oxidative reactions and decreased antioxidant defense competence. Subsequently, the alteration in that balance that was represented by the biomarkers of OS could be beneficial for clinical practice and basic clinical research. Additionally, all trials demonstrated the efficacy of ceftiofur for the treatment of CE in she-camel.(AU)

Utilização da ozonioterapia como tratamento da endometrite em égua / Use of ozone therapy as endometritis treatment in mare

Conformações perineais inadequadas estão frequentemente associadas à pneumovagina, predispondo animais a processos inflamatórios vaginais e uterinos. Dentre as patologias reprodutivas que acometem éguas, a endometrite é a que ocorre com maior frequência, com forte impacto negativo sobre os índices reprodutivos de um criatório. Para essa afecção, a ozonioterapia se apresenta como tratamento em potencial. Assim, este estudo objetiva relatar um caso de endometrite em égua Quarto de Milha, multípara, de 17 anos de idade, atendida no Hospital Veterinário Sylvio Barbosa Cardoso, da Universidade Estadual de Ceará. Durante a avaliação ginecológica, observou-se alterações na conformação vulvar e teste de Windsucker positivo, indicando pneumovagina. Foram coletadas amostras endometriais para exames laboratoriais, os quais apresentaram citologia com contagem de neutrófilos polimorfonucleares ≥30% e cultura negativa para fungos e bactérias. O exame histopatológico revelou fibrose intersticial endometrial crônica acentuada. Diante do diagnóstico de endometrite, iniciou-se o tratamento com lavagem uterina usando solução ringer lactato ozonizada, seguido por insuflação uterina com ozônio. O animal foi submetido à técnica cirúrgica de Caslick para correção da má conformação vulvar. Após o tratamento, a égua foi inseminada, resultando na coleta de dois embriões viáveis. Diante do exposto, o caso reforça a efetividade da ozonioterapia associada à Caslick para o tratamento de endometrite em éguas.

Dysfunctional perineal conformations are often associated with pneumovagina, predisposing animals to vaginal and uterine inflammatory processes. Among the reproductive pathologies that affect mares, endometritis is the most frequent, with a strong negative impact on the reproductive indices of a farm. For this condition, ozone therapy presents itself as a potential treatment. The study aimed to report a case of endometritis in a 17-year-old multiparous quarter-mile mare, which was attended at the Veterinary Hospital Sylvio Barbosa Cardoso located in the State University of Ceará. During the gynecological evaluation, changes in vulvar conformation and a positive Windsucker test were observed, indicating pneumovagina. Endometrial samples were collected for laboratory exams, resulting in cytology with polymorphonuclear neutrophil count ≥30% and negative culture for fungi and bacteria. The histopathological examination revealed severe chronic endometrial interstitial fibrosis. Regarding the diagnosis of endometritis, the treatment with uterine lavage using ozonated ringer lactate solution was initiated followed by uterine insufflation with ozone. The animal was submitted to Caslick's surgical technique to correct the vulvar malformation. After treatment, the mare was inseminated, resulting in the collection of two viable embryos. In view of the above, the case reinforces the effectiveness of ozone therapy associated with Caslick`s technique for endometritis treatment in mares.

Caracterização fúngica e formação de biofilme em éguas com endometrite / Fungal characterization and biofilm formation in mares with endometritis

A endometrite é a principal causa de infertilidade em éguas, além de gerar grandes transtornos econômicos e produtivos. Objetivou-se caracterizar a citologia, cultura bacteriana e fúngica, além da identificação da formação de biofilme em éguas com endometrite. Amostras de 70 éguas foram coletadas para citologia uterina e exame microbiológico. A determinação da formação de biofilme foi realizada através da técnica de cristal violeta. Das 70 éguas diagnosticadas com endometrite 43 (61,4%) apresentaram infecção bacteriana e/ou fúngica. Das 43 éguas, 30,2% (13/43) apresentaram infecção fúngica, os mais evidenciados foram Aspergillus spp. e Candida albicans, Curvalaria spp., Cladosporium spp. e Zygomices spp. Dos fungos identificados, 9/13 (69,2%) formaram biofilme. Esses resultados revelam números de infecção fúngica acima da média em comparação com a literatura. Várias causas são reportadas ao aumento dos casos de endometrite fúngica, dentre elas o aumento no uso das biotecnologias reprodutivas provocando um excesso de manipulação uterina. É de suma importância a identificação do agente, o conhecimento da suscetibilidade farmacológica e a comprovação da produção de biofilme em casos de endometrite. Estas ferramentas podem fornecer subsídios ainda mais importantes para melhorar a eficiência reprodutiva e sanitária dos rebanhos equinos.(AU)

Endometritis is the main cause of infertility in mares, besides generating major economic and productive disorders. The objective was to characterize the cytology, microbiological and fungal culture, as well as the identification of biofilm formation in mares with endometritis. Samples of seventy mares were collected for uterine cytology and microbiological examination. The determination of biofilm formation was performed using violet crystal technique. Of the seventy mares diagnosed with endometritis 43 (61.4%) presented bacterial and/or fungal infection. From the 43 mares, 30.2% (13/43) presented fungal infection, the most evidenced were Aspergillus spp. and Candida albicans, Curvalaria spp., Cladosporium spp. and Zygomices spp. Of the identified fungi, 9/13 (69.2%) formed biofilm. These results reveal above average numbers of fungal infection compared to the literature. Several causes are related to the increase in cases of fungal endometritis, among them the increase in the use of reproductive biotechnologies, causing an excessive uterine manipulation. Identification of the agent, knowledge of pharmacological susceptibility and evidence of biofilm production in endometritis cases are extremely important. These tools can provide even more important subsidies to improve the reproductive and sanitary efficiency of equine herds.(AU)

Caracterização fúngica e formação de biofilme em éguas com endometrite / Fungal characterization and biofilm formation in mares with endometritis

A endometrite é a principal causa de infertilidade em éguas, além de gerar grandes transtornos econômicos e produtivos. Objetivou-se caracterizar a citologia, cultura bacteriana e fúngica, além da identificação da formação de biofilme em éguas com endometrite. Amostras de 70 éguas foram coletadas para citologia uterina e exame microbiológico. A determinação da formação de biofilme foi realizada através da técnica de cristal violeta. Das 70 éguas diagnosticadas com endometrite 43 (61,4%) apresentaram infecção bacteriana e/ou fúngica. Das 43 éguas, 30,2% (13/43) apresentaram infecção fúngica, os mais evidenciados foram Aspergillus spp. e Candida albicans, Curvalaria spp., Cladosporium spp. e Zygomices spp. Dos fungos identificados, 9/13 (69,2%) formaram biofilme. Esses resultados revelam números de infecção fúngica acima da média em comparação com a literatura. Várias causas são reportadas ao aumento dos casos de endometrite fúngica, dentre elas o aumento no uso das biotecnologias reprodutivas provocando um excesso de manipulação uterina. É de suma importância a identificação do agente, o conhecimento da suscetibilidade farmacológica e a comprovação da produção de biofilme em casos de endometrite. Estas ferramentas podem fornecer subsídios ainda mais importantes para melhorar a eficiência reprodutiva e sanitária dos rebanhos equinos.

Endometritis is the main cause of infertility in mares, besides generating major economic and productive disorders. The objective was to characterize the cytology, microbiological and fungal culture, as well as the identification of biofilm formation in mares with endometritis. Samples of seventy mares were collected for uterine cytology and microbiological examination. The determination of biofilm formation was performed using violet crystal technique. Of the seventy mares diagnosed with endometritis 43 (61.4%) presented bacterial and/or fungal infection. From the 43 mares, 30.2% (13/43) presented fungal infection, the most evidenced were Aspergillus spp. and Candida albicans, Curvalaria spp., Cladosporium spp. and Zygomices spp. Of the identified fungi, 9/13 (69.2%) formed biofilm. These results reveal above average numbers of fungal infection compared to the literature. Several causes are related to the increase in cases of fungal endometritis, among them the increase in the use of reproductive biotechnologies, causing an excessive uterine manipulation. Identification of the agent, knowledge of pharmacological susceptibility and evidence of biofilm production in endometritis cases are extremely important. These tools can provide even more important subsidies to improve the reproductive and sanitary efficiency of equine herds.

Doenças do pós-parto e seus efeitos sobre a eficiência reprodutiva de vacas leiteiras / Postpartum diseases and their effects on dairy cows reproductive efficiency

O período de transição das vacas leiteiras é marcado por diversas alterações fisiológicas, metabólicas e endócrinas. Essas alterações aumentam a susceptibilidade das vacas às infecções no pósparto o que compromete bem-estar, resultando em menor desempenho produtivo e reprodutivo, levando ao aumento dos custos relacionados ao tratamento das infecções e ao descarte de leite. Dentre as doenças que acometem as vacas leiteiras no período pós-parto destacam-se as patologias relacionadas ao trato reprodutivo (retenção de placenta, metrite, endometrite clínica e subclínica) ou em outros órgãos (mastite, claudicação, problemas digestivos e respiratórios), e os distúrbios metabólicos (cetose, hipocalcemia e deslocamento de abomaso). Embora o impacto negativo das doenças no pós-parto sobre a eficiência reprodutiva de vacas leiteiras já tenha sido demonstrado por diversos estudos, os mecanismos pelos quais os processos infecciosos e inflamatórios interferem direta e/ou indiretamente no funcionamento do trato reprodutivo das vacas leiteiras ainda não foram totalmente elucidados. Sabe-se que as respostas inflamatória e imunológica frente à infecção podem influenciar processos reprodutivos como a dinâmica folicular ovariana, a esteroidogênese, a competência ovocitária, a fertilização, o desenvolvimento embrionário e a manutenção da gestação. Portanto, a ocorrência de doenças no pós-parto é um obstáculo a eficiência reprodutiva, principalmente devido à alta incidência dessas infecções nas vacas de leite. Podese concluir que a prevenção é a melhor estratégia para combater os efeitos negativos da ocorrência das doenças do pós-parto na eficiência reprodutiva, pois mesmo após a cura clínica dessas patologias a eficiência reprodutiva não é reestabelecida, e seus efeitos persistem por toda a lactação.

The transition period of dairy cows is marked by several physiological, metabolic and endocrine changes. These changes increase the susceptibility of cows to postpartum infections, which compromises welfare, resulting in lower productive and reproductive performance, leading to increased costs related to the treatment of infections and milk disposal. Among the diseases that affect dairy cows in the postpartum period are pathologies related to the reproductive tract (retention of placenta, metritis, clinical and subclinical endometritis) or to other organs (mastitis, claudication, digestive, and respiratory problems), and metabolic disorders (ketosis, hypocalcemia and abomasal displacement). Although the negative impact of postpartum diseases on dairy cows reproductive efficiency has already been demonstrated by several studies, the mechanisms by which infectious and inflammatory processes directly and/or indirectly interfere in the reproductive tract of dairy cows have not yet been fully elucidated. It is known that inflammatory and immunological responses to infection can influence reproductive processes such as ovarian follicular dynamics, steroidogenesis, oocyte competence, fertilization, embryonic development, and maintenance of pregnancy. Therefore, the occurrence of postpartum diseases is an obstacle to reproductive efficiency, mainly due to the high incidence of these infections in dairy cows. It can be concluded that prevention is the best strategy to combat the negative effects of the occurrence of postpartum diseases on reproductive efficiency, because even after the clinical cure of these pathologies reproductive efficiency is not reestablished, and its effects persist throughout lactation.

Ozonioterapia no tratamento auxiliar de éguas inférteis: Potencial angiogênico e antimicrobiano / Ozone therapy in the supporting treatment of infertile mares: Angiogenic and antimicrobial actions

A endometrite infecciosa é considerada uma das principais causas de infertilidade em éguas. Por sua vez, alterações degenerativas endometriais interferem diretamente na hemodinâmica uterina, podendo comprometer a fertilização e a manutenção da gestação. Por serem poderosos agentes oxidantes nãoespecíficos, o gás ozônio (O3) e os óleos vegetais ozonizados tem sido utilizados como alternativas às terapias antimicrobianas convencionais. Além de apresentar ação germicida frente a forma livre de fungos e bactérias, a ozonioterapia possui marcante potencial antibiofilme. Adicionalmente, o preenchimento da cavidade uterina de éguas com gás O3 estimula a angiogênese local sem apresentar efeitos deletérios ao endométrio. Dessa forma, os potencias antimicrobianos e angiogênicos fazem da ozonioterapia uma promissora alterativa para o tratamento adjuvante de endometrites crônicas em éguas.

Infectious endometritis is considered one of the main causes of infertility in mares. Similarly, endometrial degenerative changes directly affect the uterine hemodynamics, compromising the fertilization and the maintenance of pregnancy. Based on their powerful non-specific oxidizing action, ozone (O3) and ozonized vegetable oils have been used as alternatives to conventional antimicrobial therapies. In addition to the germicidal effect against the free-living cells of fungi and bacteria, O3 therapy has showed unspecific anti-biofilm potential. Additionally, the insufflation of the uterine cavity of mares with O3 stimulates local angiogenesis without inducing deleterious effects on the endometrium. Therefore, the antimicrobial and angiogenic potentials make O3 therapy a promising alternative for the adjuvant treatment of persistent endometritis in mares.

Histeropexia com aplicação de "toggles" para tratamento de piometra em mini horse / Pyometra treatment by histeropexy with toggles aplication in mini horse

Background: Brazil is an important horse breeder that creates about three million jobs and movements about R$16,15 billions per year. Although, it is important to the horse breeding industry success that the animals reproductive performance be kept. The mare pregnancy loss causes abundant forfeitures to horse breeders, furthermore, the chronic pyometra is one of that causes. The chronic pyometra is an uncommon mare condition, clinical treatments are often ineffective, under those circumstances the hysterectomy, ovariohysterectomy and uteropexy are recommended. This report proposes to describe the chronic pyometra surgical treatments with the uteropexy technique in mini horses that do not respond to the clinical treatment. Case: A 14-year-old mini breed horse mare weighing 117 kg was sent to Veterinarian Hospital (HV) of the Paraná Federal University (UFPR), presenting dystocia background and intrauterine purulent secretion. The clinical treatment had been conducted, but not well succeeded. An hysteroscopy was conducted with a cervix rupture monitoring, uterine mucosa edematiated and crispy, presenting liquid and a high amount of purulent secretion in the uterus horn and body. The biopsy identified uteropexy. The post-surgical complications were minimums and 30 days after the procedure the laparoscopy was repeated with uterine healing monitoring, without adherences and the uterus were at horizontal position. The hysteroscopy was conducted where a small amount of purulent secretion was perceived. Ten days after the second laparoscopy the patient was discharged. Two years after the procedure, the animal responsible informed that there was not a relapse. Discussion: the mare pyometra occurrence is uncommon and emerges by nature protection false mechanisms. Any change or flaw in one of these protection mechanics barriers, may result in a reproductive change due to uterine infection, resulting in reduction of mare reproductive capacity. Probably this reports patients developed pyometra due to the cervix lesion it's presented made easier the uterus external microorganisms entrance, that predisposes an chronic uterine infection. As many authors report, the chronic pyometra clinical treatment is not always successful, also observed in the case reported, indicating then surgical treatment. There are many pyometra surgical treatments indications as: Wedge resection technique in case of cervix adherence, uteropexy technique, ovary-hysterectomy technique or hysterectomy. The ovary-hysterectomy and the hysterectomy was not conducted for being considered highly invasive. This case choice procedure was the uteropexy, which corresponds to fixing the broad ligament of the uterus to the abdominal wall, repositioning it horizontally, to obtain a better drainage and motility, since this is your anatomic position. In the report, the surgical technique was conducted satisfactorily, certifying the uterine elevation by laparoscopy in the postoperative and also by the responsible report, that the animal does not relapse in two years. The postoperative complications were not alarming, considering that it ceased 24h after the procedure. The conclusions present in this treatment show that the hysteropexy conducted by videosurgery with toggles application developed the necessary uterine elevation to the liquid drainage, that allows the mare to execute the uterine cleaning by the physiological form.(AU)

Diagnosis of endometritis in the bitch / Diagnóstico da endometrite em cadelas

Endometritis refers to an inflammation of the uterine mucosa that does not extend beyond the stratum spongiosum. Recent studies indicate it is a common finding in 30-50% of bitches suffering from infertility/subfertility. This disorder is subclinical, and its diagnosis involves sampling the uterus, whether it is by performing a cytology from flushing the organ or histology on collected uterine biopsies. Its pathophysiology remains unclear in 2021. Some cases are associated with cystic endometrial hyperplasia, which leads to disruption in the uterine clearance mechanisms after breeding ; while other appear as a pure inflammatory process. While we don’t have all the answers yet, there is no doubt today that these disorders must be included in the differential diagnosis of infertility in the bitch. The work that has already been done on this topic already offers some idea on how to approach these cases in our veterinary clinics.

Endometrite: resistência antimicrobiana e suas abordagens diagnósticas / Endometritis: antimicrobial resistance and its diagnostic approaches

A endometrite é a principal causa de infertilidade em éguas, além de gerar grandes transtornos econômicos e produtivos. Objetivou-se com esse trabalho, realizar uma revisão sistemática sobre endometrite equina, sua etiologia, os mecanismos próprios de defesa uterina mecânicos e quimiotáticos. Avaliando ainda os principais microrganismos envolvidos no processo bem como sua virulência e resistência antimicrobiana. Apresentamos ainda uma proposta de abordagem diagnóstica contemplando a identificação dos agentes, susceptibilidade farmacológica associadas a comprovação da produção de biofilme, assim como sua graduação, possibilitando assim em caso de comprovação de produção de biofilme uma terapia alternativa eficaz para a quebra desse biofilme associado a um tratamento antibacteriano específico. A correlação desses testes possivelmente fornecerá subsídios ainda mais importantes para melhorar a eficiência reprodutiva dos rebanhos equinos.

Endometritis is the main cause of infertility in mares, in addition to promote major economic and productive disorders. The objective of this work was to carry out a systematic review of equine endometritis, its etiology, mechanical and chemotactic uterine defense mechanisms. Also evaluating the main microorganisms involved in the process as well as their virulence and antimicrobial resistance. We also present a proposal for a diagnostic approach contemplating the identification of agents, pharmacological susceptibility associated with presence of biofilm production, as well as its graduation, thus enabling, in case of biofilm present, an effective alternative therapy to break this biofilm associated with an specific antibacterial treatment. The correlation of these tests will possibly provide even more important subsidies to improve reproductive efficiency of equine herds.

Using vaginal discharge score (VDS) grading system to evaluate the effect of clinical endometritis on reproductive performance of dairy cows in China

Clinical endometritis (CE) is a major cause in affecting the reproductive performance of dairy cows. The objectives of this study were to ascertain the prevalence of CE and to evaluate the effect of CE on reproductive performance in dairy cows using vaginal discharge score (VDS) grading system. 803 dairy cows were examined by vaginoscope with 4-point VDS at 26 ± 3 days in milk (DIM) and classified into six groups: non-endometritis with VDS 0 (control; CON), endometritis with VDS 1 (MEM), non-treated endometritis with VDS 2 (NTME), treated endometritis with VDS 2 (TME), non-treated endometritis with VDS 3 (NTPE), and treated endometritis with VDS 3 (TPE). Cows in TME and TPE groups were treated with 200 mL of 50% dextrose solution by intrauterine infusion. The prevalence of CE was 33% at 26 ± 3 DIM. Binary logistic regression analysis revealed cows in MEM, NTME and NTPE groups had a less likelihood of first artificial insemination (AI) pregnancy than those in CON group (P 0.05). Kaplan-Meier survival curves for days open were statistically different (P = 0.004). In Cox regression model, cows in NTME and NTPE groups had a reduced pregnancy rate than those in CON group (P 0.05). The hazard of pregnancy in NTME group was lower than that in TME group (P = 0.044). Similarly, it was lower for the hazard of pregnancy in NTPE group than in TPE group (P = 0.048). Cows in MEM, NTME, and NTPE groups required more services per pregnancy than those in CON group (P 0.05). In conclusion, CE examined by the VDS grading system impaired reproductive performance, and mild endometritis with VDS 1 should be treated in the early postpartum period to ameliorate fertility in dairy herds.(AU)

Canine pyometra – an update and revision of diagnostic terminology

Pyometra is frequently diagnosed in female dogs, and it is characterized by endometrial inflammation, accumulation of purulent exudate within the lumen, and bacterial infection. In the dog, pyometra affects more often aged nulliparous bitches during the luteal phase. Pathogenesis of pyometra is multifactorial and progesterone seems to be a key factor. Cystic endometrial hyperplasia has been described as a predisposing condition for canine pyometra. However, a recent study demonstrated that cystic endometrial hyperplasia is not significantly associated with naturally occurring pyometra, whereas there is a significant association of this condition with pseudoplacentational endometrial hyperplasia. The aim of this review is to provide an update on canine pyometra, with focus on its association with uterine hyperplasic lesions, which supports a proposal for adoption of more adequate diagnostic terminology.

Condição microbiológica após antissepsia da genitália externa em éguas / Microbiological condition after antisepsis of reproductive tract in mares

A endometrite é a principal responsável pela diminuição nas taxas de fertilidade e recuperação embrionária em éguas e em parte, pode ser associada a contaminações por falhas na antissepsia das biotécnicas reprodutivas aplicadas à espécie. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar os níveis de contaminação decorrentes de diferentes protocolos de antissepsia da genitália externa de éguas doadoras de embrião. Éguas sadias tiveram a vulva higienizada conforme um dos três grupos experimentais: (G1) sabão de côco; (G2) detergente neutro e (G3) clorexidina degermante 2%. Foi realizada a coleta de material da região da vulva, vestíbulo e útero com auxílio de swab estéril. As amostras foram processadas com objetivo de se determinar os principais microgranismos presentes, além da avaliação de Unidades Formadoras de Colônia (UFC). O G1 mostrou-se mais efetivo quanto à redução nas contagens de UFC em todas amostras. Por outro lado, G2 apresentou eficiência de 62%, sendo o tratamento menos eficiente na redução da contaminação das diferentes regiões avaliadas. A escolha adequada do agente sanitizante utilizado na higienização de períneo previamente a intervenções ginecológicas são de suma importância afim de se evitar contaminações ascendentes que levem a endometrites.(AU)

Endometritis is mainly responsible for the decrease in fertility and embryonic recovery rates in mares and, in part, it can be associated with contaminations due to failures in the antisepsis of reproductive biotechniques applied to the specie. The objective of this study was to evaluate the levels of contamination resulting from different protocols for antisepsis of the external genitalia of embryo donor mares. Healthy mares had their vulva sanitized according to one of the three experimental groups: (G1) coconut soap; (G2) neutral detergent and (G3) 2% chlorhexidine degerming. It was made the collection of material from the vulva, vestibule and uterus region with the aid of a sterile swab. The samples were processed in order to determine the main microorganisms present, in addition to the evaluation of Colony Forming Units (CFU). G1 was more effective in reducing CFU counts in all samples. On the other hand, G2 showed an efficiency of 62%, being the treatment less efficient in reducing contamination in the different regions evaluated. The proper choice of the sanitizing agent used to clean the perineum prior to gynecological interventions is of paramount importance in order to avoid ascending contamination that lead to endometritis.(AU)

Canine pyometra an update and revision of diagnostic terminology

Pyometra is frequently diagnosed in female dogs, and it is characterized by endometrial inflammation, accumulation of purulent exudate within the lumen, and bacterial infection. In the dog, pyometra affects more often aged nulliparous bitches during the luteal phase. Pathogenesis of pyometra is multifactorial and progesterone seems to be a key factor. Cystic endometrial hyperplasia has been described as a predisposing condition for canine pyometra. However, a recent study demonstrated that cystic endometrial hyperplasia is not significantly associated with naturally occurring pyometra, whereas there is a significant association of this condition with pseudoplacentational endometrial hyperplasia. The aim of this review is to provide an update on canine pyometra, with focus on its association with uterine hyperplasic lesions, which supports a proposal for adoption of more adequate diagnostic terminology.(AU)

Condição microbiológica após antissepsia da genitália externa em éguas / Microbiological condition after antisepsis of reproductive tract in mares

A endometrite é a principal responsável pela diminuição nas taxas de fertilidade e recuperação embrionária em éguas e em parte, pode ser associada a contaminações por falhas na antissepsia das biotécnicas reprodutivas aplicadas à espécie. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar os níveis de contaminação decorrentes de diferentes protocolos de antissepsia da genitália externa de éguas doadoras de embrião. Éguas sadias tiveram a vulva higienizada conforme um dos três grupos experimentais: (G1) sabão de côco; (G2) detergente neutro e (G3) clorexidina degermante 2%. Foi realizada a coleta de material da região da vulva, vestíbulo e útero com auxílio de swab estéril. As amostras foram processadas com objetivo de se determinar os principais microgranismos presentes, além da avaliação de Unidades Formadoras de Colônia (UFC). O G1 mostrou-se mais efetivo quanto à redução nas contagens de UFC em todas amostras. Por outro lado, G2 apresentou eficiência de 62%, sendo o tratamento menos eficiente na redução da contaminação das diferentes regiões avaliadas. A escolha adequada do agente sanitizante utilizado na higienização de períneo previamente a intervenções ginecológicas são de suma importância afim de se evitar contaminações ascendentes que levem a endometrites.

Endometritis is mainly responsible for the decrease in fertility and embryonic recovery rates in mares and, in part, it can be associated with contaminations due to failures in the antisepsis of reproductive biotechniques applied to the specie. The objective of this study was to evaluate the levels of contamination resulting from different protocols for antisepsis of the external genitalia of embryo donor mares. Healthy mares had their vulva sanitized according to one of the three experimental groups: (G1) coconut soap; (G2) neutral detergent and (G3) 2% chlorhexidine degerming. It was made the collection of material from the vulva, vestibule and uterus region with the aid of a sterile swab. The samples were processed in order to determine the main microorganisms present, in addition to the evaluation of Colony Forming Units (CFU). G1 was more effective in reducing CFU counts in all samples. On the other hand, G2 showed an efficiency of 62%, being the treatment less efficient in reducing contamination in the different regions evaluated. The proper choice of the sanitizing agent used to clean the perineum prior to gynecological interventions is of paramount importance in order to avoid ascending contamination that lead to endometritis.

Indicators of immunosuppression peripartum in dual purpose cows in the tropics affected health, productive and reproductive parameters

O objetivo do estudo foi identificar indicadores de imunossupressão periparto em vacas de duplo propósito nos trópicos e determinar seus efeitos sobre parâmetros produtivos e reprodutivos. Os indicadores utilizados foram: alterações na população de leucócitos e neutrófilos, concentrações de metabólitos energéticos (β-hidroxibutirato e glicose) e escores de condição corporal (ECC). Amostras de sangue e BCS (escala 1 5) foram realizadas semanalmente durante o periparto. A saúde uterina foi avaliada (3 semanas após o parto) por ultrassonografia e usando um escore vaginal (0-3) descrito porSheldon et ai. (2006). Vacas (n=30) foram classificadas como endometrite saudável ou clínica (CE). A prevalência de EC foi de 29,6%. As populações de leucócitos e neutrófilos diminuíram no periparto e foram menores (P<0,05) nas vacas com CE. Vacas saudáveis ​​apresentaram maior (P<0,05) produção diária de leite do que aquelas com CE (18,84±0,63 vs 14,76±0,84 kg). Vacas CE tiveram desempenho reprodutivo inferior (P<0,05) em comparação com vacas saudáveis ​​(dias abertos: 244,40 ± 35,00 vs 178,00 ± 23,33 e serviços por concepção 3,33 ± 0,51 vs 1,83 ± 0,34). BCS similarmente (P>0,05) diminuiu após o parto em ambos os grupos. As concentrações de metabólitos energéticos durante o periparto flutuaram de maneira semelhante (P>0,05) em vacas saudáveis ​​e CE. Em resumo, vacas de duplo propósito em condições tropicais, apresentaram indicadores de imunossupressão periparto, caracterizada por um declínio na população de leucócitos, principalmente neutrófilos, bem como diminuição das concentrações de glicose e BCS pós-parto. Além disso, houve aumento nas concentrações de β-hidroxibutirato e vacas com CE tiveram efeito negativo nos parâmetros produtivos e reprodutivos.(AU)

Acute endometritis induced by Escherichia coli in mares evaluated through color doppler ultrasonography / [Endometrite aguda induzida por Escherichia coli em éguas avaliadas por ultrassonografia com Doppler colorido]

The objectives of this study were to characterize the endometritis induced in mares using color Doppler ultrasonography and traditional exams. Experiment 1. Mares (n=20) were submitted to intrauterine inoculation with Escherichia coli. Uterine evaluation was performed at M0 and M1. Experiment 2. Animals were divided into two groups: control group (n=10), and treated group (n=10) using phytotherapeutic solution. In both groups, the uterine evaluation was performed at time T1, T2, and T3. Experiment 3: Uterine evaluation was compared after antibiotic therapy, phytotherapy, and M0. For statistical analysis, the Tukey test, t Student, and Anova test were applied. Experiment 1. The mean values of vascularization at M1 were significantly higher than those obtained at M0 (P<0.05). Bacterial growth was observed in all samples collected. Experiment 2. The mean value of vascularization at time T1 in both groups was significantly higher (P<0.05) compared to M2 and M3. Experiment 3. After antibiotic therapy, the vascularization of the body and uterine horns was not equivalent to the vascularization presented at M0. We can conclude that it was not possible to correlate results obtained by color Doppler ultrasonography with the traditional findings for the diagnosis of endometritis.(AU)

Os objetivos deste estudo foram caracterizar a endometrite induzida em éguas utilizando-se a ultrassonografia com Doppler colorido e exames tradicionais. Experimento 1: as éguas (n=20) foram submetidas à inoculação intrauterina com Escherichia coli. A avaliação uterina foi realizada em M0 e M1. Experimento 2: os animais foram divididos em dois grupos: grupo controle (n=10) e grupo tratado (n=10), sendo usada solução fitoterápica. Nos dois grupos, a avaliação uterina ocorreu nos momentos T1, T2 e T3. Experimento 3: a avaliação uterina foi comparada após antibioticoterapia, fitoterapia e M0. Para análise estatística, foram aplicados os testes de Tukey, t de Student e ANOVA. Experimento 1: os valores médios de vascularização em M1 foram significativamente maiores que os obtidos no M0 (P<0,05). Houve crescimento bacteriano em todas as amostras coletadas. Experimento 2: o valor médio da vascularização no tempo T1 nos dois grupos foi significativamente maior (P<0,05) do que o obtido em M2 e M3. Experimento 3: após antibioticoterapia, a vascularização do corpo e dos cornos uterinos não era equivalente à vascularização apresentada em M0. Pode-se concluir que não foi possível correlacionar os resultados obtidos pela ultrassonografia com Doppler colorido com os achados tradicionais para o diagnóstico de endometrite.(AU)

Subclinical endometritis and postpartum ovarian resumption in respect to TNF-alpha, IL-8 and CRP in Egyptian buffaloes

The study was carried out to find the relation between subclinical endometritis (SCE) and postpartum (pp.) ovarian resumption as well as to evaluate serum and endometrial TNF-α, IL-8 and serum CRP in buffaloes with and without SCE. Thirty-nine pluriparous buffaloes at the 3rd (W3), 5th (W5) and 7th (W7) week pp. were involved in this experiment. The parity of the buffaloes ranged from 4 to 8 with an average 5.8±0.2. Subclinical endometritis was diagnosed by the percentage of polymorphonuclear cells (PMNs) in uterine cytology obtained from endometrial cytobrush at W5 and W7. The cut-off point of PMNs% in buffaloes for SCE was ≥ 6% at W5 or ≥ 4% at W7. According to PMNs%, buffaloes were divided into SCE group (n=27) and non-SCE group (n=12). Ovarian cyclicity was monitored by rectal palpation, ultrasonography and progesterone assay at W3, W5 and W7. Serum and endometrial TNF-α, IL-8 and serum CRP were estimated at W5 and W7. Buffaloes with SCE (55.6%) showed delayed ovarian activity as compared to non-SCE (16.7%) animals (P=0.036). Significant increase in serum cytokines and CRP levels were detected at W5 (P ˂0.05) and W7 (P <0.01) in SCE buffaloes as compared to non-SCE. Endometrial levels of cytokines were significantly (P ˂0.05) elevated in SCE buffaloes. Serum and endometrial cytokines showed significant positive correlation. Furthermore, levels of TNF-α, IL-8 and CRP exhibited significant positive correlation with PMNs%. In conclusion, SCE delayed postpartum ovarian cyclicity in buffaloes. Moreover, TNF-α, IL-8 and CRP assessments could be efficient tools in prediction of SCE in buffaloes.

Subclinical endometritis and postpartum ovarian resumption in respect to TNF-alpha, IL-8 and CRP in Egyptian buffaloes

The study was carried out to find the relation between subclinical endometritis (SCE) and postpartum (pp.) ovarian resumption as well as to evaluate serum and endometrial TNF-α, IL-8 and serum CRP in buffaloes with and without SCE. Thirty-nine pluriparous buffaloes at the 3rd (W3), 5th (W5) and 7th (W7) week pp. were involved in this experiment. The parity of the buffaloes ranged from 4 to 8 with an average 5.8±0.2. Subclinical endometritis was diagnosed by the percentage of polymorphonuclear cells (PMNs) in uterine cytology obtained from endometrial cytobrush at W5 and W7. The cut-off point of PMNs% in buffaloes for SCE was ≥ 6% at W5 or ≥ 4% at W7. According to PMNs%, buffaloes were divided into SCE group (n=27) and non-SCE group (n=12). Ovarian cyclicity was monitored by rectal palpation, ultrasonography and progesterone assay at W3, W5 and W7. Serum and endometrial TNF-α, IL-8 and serum CRP were estimated at W5 and W7. Buffaloes with SCE (55.6%) showed delayed ovarian activity as compared to non-SCE (16.7%) animals (P=0.036). Significant increase in serum cytokines and CRP levels were detected at W5 (P ˂0.05) and W7 (P <0.01) in SCE buffaloes as compared to non-SCE. Endometrial levels of cytokines were significantly (P ˂0.05) elevated in SCE buffaloes. Serum and endometrial cytokines showed significant positive correlation. Furthermore, levels of TNF-α, IL-8 and CRP exhibited significant positive correlation with PMNs%. In conclusion, SCE delayed postpartum ovarian cyclicity in buffaloes. Moreover, TNF-α, IL-8 and CRP assessments could be efficient tools in prediction of SCE in buffaloes.(AU)

Use of endometrial vascular perfusion by color Doppler, B-mode ultrasonography and cytology for diagnosis of subclinical endometritis in Holstein cows / Uso da perfusão vascular endometrial por Doppler colorido, ultrassonografia modo B e citologia no diagnóstico de endometrite subclínica em vacas da raça Holandesa

The aim was to evaluate the use of ultrasonography color Doppler mode for diagnosis the subclinical endometritis (SE) in dairy cows. Lactating Holstein cows on a semi intensive system were evaluated (n= 152) and distributed into two groups (C1 and C2). The C1 (n = 60) was composed of primiparous and the C2 (n = 92) by pluriparous. All females (C1 and C2) were submitted gynaecological examination by transrectal palpation and evaluation with the Metricheck device (MD) and endometrial cytology (EC) to determine the percentage of neutrophils (PMNs). Ultrasonographic examinations were performed in the B mode for the presence of echogenic intrauterine fluid (IUF-e) and for color Doppler mode endometrial vascular perfusion evaluation (ENDOVP). Data were submitted to ANOVA with Pearson correlation and chi-square test at 5%. In the evaluation with MD, 16.7% of the cows in the C1 and 17.4% in the C2 were considered inapt. Regarding SE prevalence was 24.0% (C1) and 44.7% (C2). As far as the ultrasound evaluation of the IUF-e was present in 68.0% of the cows of the C1 and in 75.0% in the C2. In the ENDOVP, scores 1 (38.0%), 2 (36.5%), 3 (23.0%) and 4 (8.7%) were evidenced. There was a correlation between ENDOVP and PMN in C1 (r = 0.8336) and in C2 (r = 0.7196). Therefore, it is concluded that ENDOVP proved to be efficient for the diagnosis of SE, in view of its strong correlation with PMN.(AU)

O objetivo foi avaliar o uso da ultrassonografia no modo Doppler colorido para o diagnóstico da endometrite subclínica (ES) em vacas leiteiras. Vacas da raça Holandesa foram avaliadas (n = 152) em lactação e mantidas em sistema semi-intensivo. Elas foram distribuídas em dois grupos (C1 e C2). O C1 (n = 60) foi composto por primíparas e o C2 (n = 92) por pluríparas. Todas as vacas (C1 e C2) foram submetidas a exame ginecológico por palpação transretal e avaliação com o dispositivo Metricheck (DM). Depois, amostras foram coletadas para citologia endometrial (CE) para determinar a porcentagem de neutrófilos (PMNs). Os exames ultrassonográficos foram realizados no modo B para a presença de líquido intra-uterino ecogênico (IUF-e) e para avaliação da perfusão vascular endometrial no modo Doppler colorido (ENDOVP). Os dados foram submetidos à ANOVA com correlação de Pearson e teste do qui-quadrado a 5%. Na avaliação com DM, 16,7% das vacas no C1 e 17,4% no C2 foram consideradas inaptas. Em relação a prevalência de ES, foi de 24,0% (C1) e 44,7% (C2). Quanto à avaliação ultrassonográfica do IUF-e, esteve presente em 68,0% das vacas do C1 e em 75,0% no C2. Na avaliação da ENDOVP, foram evidenciados os escores 1 (38,0%), 2 (36,5%), 3 (23,0%) e 4 (8,7%). Houve correlação entre ENDOVP e PMN no C1 (r = 0,8336) e no C2 (r = 0,7196). Portanto, conclui-se que a ENDOVP se mostrou eficiente para o diagnóstico de ES, tendo em vista sua forte correlação com os PMN.(AU)

Use of endometrial vascular perfusion by color Doppler, B-mode ultrasonography and cytology for diagnosis of subclinical endometritis in Holstein cows / Uso da perfusão vascular endometrial por Doppler colorido, ultrassonografia modo B e citologia no diagnóstico de endometrite subclínica em vacas da raça Holandesa

The aim was to evaluate the use of ultrasonography color Doppler mode for diagnosis the subclinical endometritis (SE) in dairy cows. Lactating Holstein cows on a semi intensive system were evaluated (n= 152) and distributed into two groups (C1 and C2). The C1 (n = 60) was composed of primiparous and the C2 (n = 92) by pluriparous. All females (C1 and C2) were submitted gynaecological examination by transrectal palpation and evaluation with the Metricheck device (MD) and endometrial cytology (EC) to determine the percentage of neutrophils (PMNs). Ultrasonographic examinations were performed in the B mode for the presence of echogenic intrauterine fluid (IUF-e) and for color Doppler mode endometrial vascular perfusion evaluation (ENDOVP). Data were submitted to ANOVA with Pearson correlation and chi-square test at 5%. In the evaluation with MD, 16.7% of the cows in the C1 and 17.4% in the C2 were considered inapt. Regarding SE prevalence was 24.0% (C1) and 44.7% (C2). As far as the ultrasound evaluation of the IUF-e was present in 68.0% of the cows of the C1 and in 75.0% in the C2. In the ENDOVP, scores 1 (38.0%), 2 (36.5%), 3 (23.0%) and 4 (8.7%) were evidenced. There was a correlation between ENDOVP and PMN in C1 (r = 0.8336) and in C2 (r = 0.7196). Therefore, it is concluded that ENDOVP proved to be efficient for the diagnosis of SE, in view of its strong correlation with PMN.

O objetivo foi avaliar o uso da ultrassonografia no modo Doppler colorido para o diagnóstico da endometrite subclínica (ES) em vacas leiteiras. Vacas da raça Holandesa foram avaliadas (n = 152) em lactação e mantidas em sistema semi-intensivo. Elas foram distribuídas em dois grupos (C1 e C2). O C1 (n = 60) foi composto por primíparas e o C2 (n = 92) por pluríparas. Todas as vacas (C1 e C2) foram submetidas a exame ginecológico por palpação transretal e avaliação com o dispositivo Metricheck (DM). Depois, amostras foram coletadas para citologia endometrial (CE) para determinar a porcentagem de neutrófilos (PMNs). Os exames ultrassonográficos foram realizados no modo B para a presença de líquido intra-uterino ecogênico (IUF-e) e para avaliação da perfusão vascular endometrial no modo Doppler colorido (ENDOVP). Os dados foram submetidos à ANOVA com correlação de Pearson e teste do qui-quadrado a 5%. Na avaliação com DM, 16,7% das vacas no C1 e 17,4% no C2 foram consideradas inaptas. Em relação a prevalência de ES, foi de 24,0% (C1) e 44,7% (C2). Quanto à avaliação ultrassonográfica do IUF-e, esteve presente em 68,0% das vacas do C1 e em 75,0% no C2. Na avaliação da ENDOVP, foram evidenciados os escores 1 (38,0%), 2 (36,5%), 3 (23,0%) e 4 (8,7%). Houve correlação entre ENDOVP e PMN no C1 (r = 0,8336) e no C2 (r = 0,7196). Portanto, conclui-se que a ENDOVP se mostrou eficiente para o diagnóstico de ES, tendo em vista sua forte correlação com os PMN.