A new species of barred Sternopygus (Gymnotiformes: Sternopygidae) from the Orinoco River

A new species of Sternopygus is described from the Orinoco River of Venezuela using traditional methods of morphometrics and meristics, and micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) imaging for osteological analysis. The new species is readily separated from all congeners in having broad, vertical pigment bars that extend from the mid-dorsum to the ventral margin of the pterygiophores. A similar color pattern, characterized by subtle differences in the densities and sizes of chromatophores, is also present in juveniles of S. obtusirostris from the Amazon River, juveniles of S. sabaji from rivers of the Guiana Shield, and S. astrabes from clearwater and blackwater terra firme streams of lowlands around the Guiana Shield. The new species further differs from other congeners in the Orinoco basin by having a reduced humeral pigment blotch with poorly defined margins, a proportionally smaller head, a longer body cavity, a more slender body shape in lateral profile, and in having vertical pigment bars that extend ventrally to the pterygiophores (vs. pigment saddles not reaching the pterygiophores). The description of this species raises to three the number of Sternopygus species in the Orinoco basin, and to 11 the total number of Sternopygus species.(AU)

Se describe una nueva especie de Sternopygus del río Orinoco de Venezuela utilizando métodos tradicionales de morfometría y merística, y microtomografía computarizada (micro-CT) para análisis osteológico. La nueva especie se distingue fácilmente de todos los congéneres por tener barras de pigmento verticales anchas que se extienden desde la parte media del dorso hasta el margen ventral de los pterigióforos. Un patrón de color similar, caracterizado por diferencias sutiles en las densidades y tamaños de los cromatóforos, también está presente en juveniles de S. obtusirostris del río Amazonas, juveniles de S. sabaji de ríos del Escudo Guayanés y S. astrabes de aguas claras y arroyos de tierra firme de aguas negras de las tierras bajas alrededor del Escudo Guayanés. La nueva especie se diferencia aún más de otros congéneres en la cuenca del Orinoco por tener una mancha de pigmento humeral reducida con márgenes mal definidos, una cabeza proporcionalmente más pequeña, una cavidad corporal más larga, una forma corporal más delgada en el perfil lateral y por tener barras de pigmento verticales que extenderse ventralmente a los pterigióforos (frente a las monturas de pigmentos que no llegan a los pterigióforos). La descripción de esta especie eleva a tres el número de especies de Sternopygus en la cuenca del Orinoco y a 11 el número total de especies de Sternopygus.(AU)

Morphometric descriptive report of scleral ossicle rings, by ultrasound and computed tomography, in three Testudines specimens / Relato descritivo morfobiométrico dos anéis de ossículos esclerais, por ultrassonografia e tomografia computadorizada, em três espécimes de Testudines

The scleral ossicle rings function has been related to mechanical protection, muscle fixation, support for eyeball shape and visual accommodation. There are few morphobiometric reports on these rings in different Testudines species, and we performed ultrasound (US) and computed tomography (CT) of the scleral ossicle rings in one green turtle (Chelonia mydas), one black-bellied slider (Trachemys dorbigni) and one red-footed tortoise (Chelonoidis carbonarius). The US and CT of the ossicle rings were performed for anatomical identification. The thickness, density, width, and diameters of each ring were measured. The US and CT of the scleral ossicle rings of three animals showed single and continuous circular structures, located in the anterior pole. These structures were easily observed in C. mydas, whose rings were the biggest, thickest and widest. The T. dorbigni CT presented decreased dimensions and the ossicles were the most difficult to identify. Bone density in the superior region was greater than in the inferior of each ring in all animals. Non-invasive imaging exams are good tools to study the anatomy of the ocular skeleton. The scleral ossicle rings of the three specimens presented general morphological similarities and CT enabled visualizing a greater number of details of the ring bone morphology.

Os anéis de ossículos esclerais têm sua função relacionada à proteção mecânica, fixação muscular, suporte para o formato do bulbo ocular e acomodação visual, contudo existem poucos relatos morfobiométricos sobre esses anéis em diferentes espécies de Testudines. Desta forma, foi realizada a avaliação morfobiométrica, por ultrassom (US) e tomografia computadorizada (TC), dos anéis de ossículos esclerais em uma tartaruga verde (Chelonia mydas), um tigre-d'água (Trachemys dorbigni) e um jabuti-piranga (Chelonoidis carbonarius). Foram realizadas US e TC dos anéis esclerais dos três animais para identificação anatômica, espessura, densidade, largura e diâmetros. A US e a TC dos três animais mostraram estruturas circulares únicas e contínuas, localizadas no polo anterior. Estas estruturas foram facilmente observadas na C. mydas, cujos anéis eram os maiores, mais espessos e mais largos. A TC da T. dorbigni apresentou dimensões reduzidas e os ossículos foram dificilmente identificados. A densidade óssea na região superior foi maior comparativamente a parte inferior de cada anel, em todos os animais. Exames de imagem não invasivos mostraram-se bons instrumentos para estudo do esqueleto escleral. Os anéis de ossículos esclerais dos três espécimes apresentaram semelhanças morfológicas gerais e a TC permitiu visualizar um maior número de detalhes da morfologia óssea do anel.

Relation of fibrocartilaginous embolism and acute and non-compressive nucleus pulposus extrusion with imaging tests: case report / Relação de embolia fibrocartilaginosa e extrusão aguda e não-compressiva do núcleo pulposus com testes de imagem: relato de caso

Fibrocartilaginous embolism (FCEM) and acute, non-compressive nucleus pulposus extrusion (ANNPE) are non-compressive myelopathies that are difficult to differentiate. The definitive diagnosis is obtained only with histology, but the presumptive diagnosis is made through clinical signs and imaging tests. The aim of this study is to report the imaging tests performed for the diagnosis of a neurological clinical case and discuss the best diagnostic method. After attending the patient, complementary tests were requested. Radiography results showed no change. The computed tomography diagnostic impression indicated distal protrusion between C6-C7, T11-T12, T13-L1 followed by mild spinal cord compression defined by the presence of a ventral hyperattenuating region. Magnetic resonance (RMI), showed a slight T2W hypersignal, well delimited in the gray matter, lateralized to the right, over the cranial third of C7. Concluding that the magnetic resonance is the method that brought more information for the diagnosis, in which the others were not described medullary alterations pertinent to FCEM and ANNPE. With their fair prognosis, the absence of histological diagnosis of these diseases may be a limiting factor in this study and, in relation to the RMI alterations being very similar between FCEM and ANNPE it is not possible to diagnose fully accurately.

A embolia fibrocartilaginosa (EFC) e a extrusão aguda não compressiva do núcleo pulposo (EANCNP) são mielopatias não compressivas de difícil diferenciação. O diagnóstico definitivo é obtido apenas com a histologia, mas o diagnóstico presuntivo é feito por meio de sinais clínicos e exames de imagem. O objetivo deste trabalho é relatar os exames de imagem realizados para o diagnóstico de um caso clínico neurológico e discutir o melhor método diagnóstico. Após o atendimento do paciente, foram solicitados exames complementares. Os resultados da radiografia não mostraram nenhuma alteração. A impressão diagnóstica da tomografia computadorizada indicou protrusão distal entre C6-C7, T11-T12, T13-L1, seguida de leve compressão medular definida pela presença de região hiperatenuante ventral. À ressonância magnética (RM), apresentava discreto hipersinal em T2W, bem delimitado na substância cinzenta, lateralizado à direita, sobre o terço cranial de C7. Concluiu-se que a ressonância magnética é o método que mais trouxe informações para o diagnóstico, os demais métodos não foram descritos alterações medulares pertinentes à EFC e à EANCNP. Com seu prognóstico favorável, a ausência de diagnóstico histológico dessas doenças pode ser um fator limitante neste estudo. Em relação às alterações do RM serem muito semelhantes entre EFC e EANCNP, não é possível diagnosticar com total precisão.

Paniculite nodular com esteatonecrose subcutânea em Golden Retrivier: relato de caso / Nodular panniculitis with subcutaneous steatonecrosis in a Golden Retrivier: case report

Um paciente canino, da raça Golden Retriever, foi atendido em clínica veterinária particular, com uma extensa formação nodular cutânea em região ventro-lateral direita, com evolução de um ano. A lesão apresentava consistência mole e presença de nodulações sólidas e retilíneas no seu interior, entremeadas ao meio líquido. Foi realizada colheita do material, por meio de punção por aspiração com agulha fina e o resultado citopatológico foi inconclusivo para neoplasia. Não foram observadas alterações dignas de nota na ultrassonografia abdominal. Após a realização de tomografia computadorizada da formação cutânea, as imagens eram compatíveis com abscesso ou hematoma entre áreas de mineralização. O animal foi submetido ao procedimento cirúrgico para biópsia excisional, tendo como diagnóstico morfológico paniculite nodular estéril com esteatonecrose, processo de morte celular dos adipócitos. O procedimento cirúrgico foi considerado curativo, uma vez que após um ano não houve recidiva no local ou formação de outras nodulações cutâneas. Essa patologia é incomum em cães, principalmente da raça Golden Retrevier e em região abdominal do tecido subcutâneo. Embora sejam correlacionadas algumas hipóteses, a causa dessa patologia permanece idiopática.(AU)

Canine intraventricular pneumocephalus: a case report / Pneumoencéfalo intraventricular em cão: relato de caso

Pneumocephalus is a well described disease; it is commonly diagnosed in humans, but the condition is rarely encountered in veterinary medicine. Computed tomography (CT) is the gold-standard diagnostic method for identifying this disease, and other methods (such as necropsy) are rarely described. In this report, we describe necropsy findings of a 10-month-old, mixed-breed dog with intraventricular pneumocephalus. The dog was referred to Laboratory of Animal Pathology of the Federal University of Uberlândia, Brazil, for necropsy after being diagnosed with pneumocephalus upon CT. In the examination, the brain had dilation of both lateral ventricles with empty spaces. Histopathology showed congestion and mineralization only near the lateral ventricles, leading to the diagnosis of pneumocephalus based on the macroscopic findings. The animal also showed sinusitis characterized by nasal discharge and neutrophilic infiltration of nasal sinuses. However, bacterial culture was not conclusive because of contamination of the sample. This is therefore an important report that shows necropsy findings of intraventricular pneumocephalus, which is a rare condition in dogs. By documenting the necropsy findings, we hope to help veterinary pathologists, including those with limited access to diagnostic imaging.

Pneumoencéfalo é uma condição bem descrita e comumente diagnosticada em humanos, mas raramente encontrada na medicina veterinária. A tomografia computadorizada (TC) é o método diagnóstico padrão-ouro para identificar tal alteração, e outros métodos (como a necropsia) raramente são descritos. Neste relato, são apresentados os achados de necropsia de um cão sem raça definida de 10 meses de idade com pneumoencéfalo intraventricular. O cão foi encaminhado ao Laboratório de Patologia Animal da Universidade Federal de Uberlândia, Brasil, para necropsia após ser diagnosticado com pneumoencéfalo na TC. No exame, o cérebro apresentava dilatação de ambos os ventrículos laterais com espaços vazios; à histopatologia, foram observadas congestão e mineralização próximas aos ventrículos laterais. Com isso foi estabelecido o diagnóstico de pneumoencéfalo, com base nos achados macroscópicos. O animal também apresentou sinusite caracterizada por secreção nasal e infiltração neutrofílica dos seios nasais. No entanto, a cultura bacteriana não foi conclusiva devido à contaminação da amostra. Este é, portanto, um importante relato que mostra achados de necropsia de pneumoencéfalo intraventricular, que é uma condição rara em cães. Ao documentar os achados da necropsia, esperamos ajudar os patologistas veterinários, incluindo aqueles com acesso limitado a técnicas de diagnóstico por imagem.

Pneumocephalus and suppurative meningoencephalitis in a dog after craniofacial trauma

Background: Pneumocephalus is characterized by the presence of gas in the intracranial compartment, and it can be developed by trauma, craniofacial surgery or spontaneously. Clinical signs start within days or months after the injury and vary according to the site of involvement. Computed tomography is the ideal diagnostic tool, however skull radiography can also be used. Treatment varies according to the severity of the case, and it can be conservative or associated with surgical intervention in the most severe cases. The purpose of this report is to describe the case of a dog that developed pneumocephalus and suppurative meningoencephalitis after head trauma caused by a bite from another dog. Case: A 2-month-old bitch, mixed breed, with 3.2 kg, was referred to the Veterinary Hospital because it had been bitten on the head by another dog. Shortly after the incident, the animal showed no clinical signs. However, 2 days later, the bitch became depressed and in persistent lateral decubitus. A lesion with a crust of approximately 0.5 cm was found close to the occipital region, with bone irregularity on palpation. The animal was in lateral decubitus with muscular hypotonia, bilateral mydriasis unresponsive to light and stupor. Radiographic images showed parietal fracture and pneumocephalus. Based on the findings of physical and laboratorial exams, diagnosis of suppurative meningoencephalitis and pneumocephalus secondary to craniofacial trauma was established. Empirical broad-spectrum antimicrobial therapy was started in addition to mannitol, corticoids, and analgesics. The animal was referred for surgical debridement by trepanation, when samples were collected to bacterial culture, which was negative. Despites the care, the animal died 14 h after the surgical procedure. Histopathological examination of the frontal cortex was performed, being the histological changes compatible with suppurative meningoencephalitis. Discussion: Dog bites on the head and neck are particularly severe, and can create intracranial bleeding, disfigurement of the face, damage to peripheral structures or cranial fractures. In this report, through radiographic images, it was found that the patient had an intracerebral aerocele, since there was presence of gas in the intracranial compartment. This alteration should always be considered in animals with neurological alterations and a history of craniofacial trauma. The main neurological changes observed in the reported case were unresponsive to mydriasis and altered mental status 2 days after the trauma, and this delay in the onset of clinical signs is frequently reported in cases of pneumocephalus. Neutrophilia and leukocytosis observed can be justified by the suppurative meningoencephalitis, confirmed by the histopathological exam. Antimicrobial therapy should be started as soon as possible, and the choice must be based on their capacity to cross the blood-brain barrier and the broad spectrum. The administration of antibiotics before collecting the material for bacterial culture may explain the negative result of this test, so that it is not possible to determine whether the intracranial gas observed on the radiograph may have developed from the trauma or because of gas-producing bacteria. Head trauma can induce suppurative meningoencephalitis and pneumocephalus even in the absence of perforating wounds at the time of the consultation. The neurological signs can start days after the trauma. Besides the clinical and surgical treatments, the prognosis of any bacterial infection of the central nervous system is poor.

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

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

Artéria subclávia direita aberrante em cão - aspectos clínicos e de imagem / Aberrant right subclavian artery in a dog - clinical and imaging aspects

Background: Aberrant right subclavian artery is only rarely observed in veterinary medicine. Some animals may present postprandial regurgitation and progressive weight loss, which is considered an incidental finding unrelated to clinical alterations. Advanced imaging techniques such as thoracic CT scan, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and contrast angiography are used for the accurate detection of lesions, anatomical changes and specific information about vascular rings. This paper describes the clinical changes, imaging exams and therapeutic approach in a female dog with megaesophagus induced by an aberrant right subclavian artery. Case: A 2-month-old female bull terrier, weighing 1.6 kg, with a history of regurgitation immediately or a few minutes after a meal, diarrhea, polyphagia, progressive emaciation and apathy for 45 days, was treated at a University Veterinary Hospital. The dog's physical examination revealed 7% dehydration and body condition score 1 (scale 1 to 5), but no cardiac or pulmonary alterations upon auscultation. The hematological analysis and renal and hepatic serum enzymes were within the normal range for the species. In view of the presumptive clinical diagnosis of vascular anomaly, suggested by the contrast X-ray examination, a chest tomography was performed, which revealed altered aortic arch shape and contours, and a posterior aneurysm in the area of abnormal connection of the right subclavian artery. The patient was released with a prescription for conservative dietary management for megaesophagus. Within two weeks, the patient returned with a report of a good response to the prescribed therapy, absence of vomiting and diarrhea, and an increase in body weight. Surgical correction was recommended, but has not been performed so far, but conservative treatment for megaesophagus was continued. No further episodes of regurgitation were identified during the nine-month follow-up period. Discussion: In the case reported here, the right subclavian artery is considered anatomically atypical because it arises directly from the aortic arch. This vascular anomaly passes on to the right pectoral limb, dorsal to the esophagus, contracting it in its dorsal aspect. It tends to affect purebred dogs, occurring more frequently in Irish setters, German shepherds and Labrador retrievers, although it has been described in other breeds such as the bull terrier documented here and mixed breed dogs. Vascular ring anomalies may not cause clinical changes in animals and represent only incidental findings, or they may lead to gastrointestinal changes resulting from esophageal stricture, contributing to megaesophagus and clinical signs of esophageal obstruction, especially in recently weaned puppies. Such alterations were observed in this case, with the dog presenting regurgitation, immediately or a few minutes after a meal, megaesophagus, diarrhea and progressive weight loss. A CT scan was performed to confirm the type and location of the vascular anomaly and diagnostic accuracy, as recommended in the literature. Dietary therapy is one of the approaches adopted for patients presenting with regurgitation resulting from megaesophagus secondary to vascular anomalies. The dog in this report responded well to the medical therapy; nevertheless, the treatment of choice to correct the esophageal obstruction caused by this anomaly is surgical sectioning of the aberrant vessel by right intercostal thoracotomy, given that the degree of esophageal dilation and dysfunction tends to increase over time. However, at this time, the animal's owner decided to suspend the recommended surgical procedure.

Tumor Venéreo Transmissível (TVT) nasal com metástase óssea em um cão / Nasal transmissible venereal tumor (TVT) with bone metastasis in a dog

Background: Transmissible venereal tumor (TVT) is a highly contagious round cell neoplasm that affects dogs, and itis usually transmitted through coitus. The tumor is mainly located in the genital area; however, the neoplasm can also beextragenital, affecting the nose, mouth, and eyes, as well as the skin and superficial lymph nodes. Cytological examinationis the most commonly used method for definitive diagnosis due to its low cost and fast execution. Chemotherapy, radiotherapy, surgical resection, and other procedures such as cryosurgery are the possible treatment options. The objective ofthis report was to describe a case of extragenital TVT with nasal primary site and metastasis in the bone tissue in a dogtreated at a private veterinary hospital in the city of Belém, Pará, Brazil.Case: A 6-year-old male domiciliary Labrador Retriever dog, weighing 24.2 kg, received oncologic treatment in a privateveterinary hospital in the city of Belém, Pará, Brazil. The animal had a history of neoplastic disease, and he had undergoneTVT resection associated with chemotherapy treatment more than 3 years ago. The clinical examination revealed a volumeincrease in the periorbital region, left lateral ocular displacement, left nostril excessive epistaxis, recurrent sneezing, cough,and pain signs, and tumor metastasis was suspected. Complementary exams of oncological cytology, computed tomography(CT), hemogram, and serum biochemistry were requested for diagnosis and staging of the condition, and supportive therapywas prescribed. The cytological report showed a dense population of neoplastic round cells with characteristics of TVT. CTindicated the presence of a heterogeneous hypodense mass with irregular contours and partially defined limits, with slightuptake of the intravenously injected contrast medium that obliterated the nasal cavity, maxillary recess, nasopharyngealmeatus, frontal sinus, and sphenoid sinus on the left side...

Tumor Venéreo Transmissível (TVT) nasal com metástase óssea em um cão / Nasal transmissible venereal tumor (TVT) with bone metastasis in a dog

Background: Transmissible venereal tumor (TVT) is a highly contagious round cell neoplasm that affects dogs, and itis usually transmitted through coitus. The tumor is mainly located in the genital area; however, the neoplasm can also beextragenital, affecting the nose, mouth, and eyes, as well as the skin and superficial lymph nodes. Cytological examinationis the most commonly used method for definitive diagnosis due to its low cost and fast execution. Chemotherapy, radiotherapy, surgical resection, and other procedures such as cryosurgery are the possible treatment options. The objective ofthis report was to describe a case of extragenital TVT with nasal primary site and metastasis in the bone tissue in a dogtreated at a private veterinary hospital in the city of Belém, Pará, Brazil.Case: A 6-year-old male domiciliary Labrador Retriever dog, weighing 24.2 kg, received oncologic treatment in a privateveterinary hospital in the city of Belém, Pará, Brazil. The animal had a history of neoplastic disease, and he had undergoneTVT resection associated with chemotherapy treatment more than 3 years ago. The clinical examination revealed a volumeincrease in the periorbital region, left lateral ocular displacement, left nostril excessive epistaxis, recurrent sneezing, cough,and pain signs, and tumor metastasis was suspected. Complementary exams of oncological cytology, computed tomography(CT), hemogram, and serum biochemistry were requested for diagnosis and staging of the condition, and supportive therapywas prescribed. The cytological report showed a dense population of neoplastic round cells with characteristics of TVT. CTindicated the presence of a heterogeneous hypodense mass with irregular contours and partially defined limits, with slightuptake of the intravenously injected contrast medium that obliterated the nasal cavity, maxillary recess, nasopharyngealmeatus, frontal sinus, and sphenoid sinus on the left side...(AU)

Retrospective study on the incidence of cats and dogs' spinal injuries by computed tomographic scan. Part I: Cervical and Cervicothoracic / Estudo retrospectivo sobre incidência de injúrias em coluna vertebral de cães e gatos por meio de exame tomográfico. Parte I: Cervical e Cervicotorácica

Injuries involving the spine are frequent in dogs and knowledge of them is important to define the patient's treatment and prognosis. The objective of this retrospective study was to describe the epidemiological profile of animals and lesions in the cervical (C1-5) and cervicothoracic (C6-T2) spine diagnosed through tomographic examination. Compilation of computed tomography (CT) reports for the referred regions was carried out in a diagnostic center between 01/04/2017 and 30/04/2020, with or without contrast, from the clinical routine, in order to relate the most common lesions and their locations, as well as the species, breeds and ages most affected. A total of 1164 CT scans were performed in the period, 57.56% (n=670/1164) for the spine, with 89.7% (n=601/670) reports accessed, where both regions referred to here totaled 26.95% of the studies (n=162/601). Male mixed-breed dogs (MBD) showed the most lesions. For the cervical spine, the most identified lesion was disk extrusion and the site was C3-C4, while the mean age for lesions was 8.09±3.55 years. As for cervicothoracic, disk mineralization was more frequent and the mean age for lesions was 6.96±2.93 years. It was concluded that the spine is the main target of CT scans, that lesions related to the intervertebral disk were the main ones identified, and older MBD animals are the main ones affected.

As lesões envolvendo coluna vertebral são frequentes em animais de companhia, podendo ocorrer à nível vertebral, medula espinal, disco intervertebral, meninges ou raízes nervosas, e o conhecimento das mesmas é importante para definir o tratamento e prognóstico do animal. O objetivo desse estudo retrospectivo foi descrever o perfil epidemiológico dos animais e das lesões em coluna vertebral cervical (C1-5) e cervicotorácica (C6-T2) diagnosticadas por meio de exame tomográfico. Realizou-se a compilação de laudos de tomografias computadorizadas para as referidas regiões realizadas em centro diagnóstico comercial, entre 01/04/2017 a 30/04/2020, contrastadas e não-contrastadas, provenientes da rotina clínica, a fim de relacionar as lesões, raças e locais mais comuns. Foram realizados 1164 exames tomográficos no período avaliado, sendo 57,56% (n=670/1164) para a coluna, com 89,7% dos laudos acessados (n=601/670), sendo que as regiões cervical e cervicotorácica somaram 26,95% dos estudos (n=162/601). Em ambas regiões, os cães sem raça definida (SRD) machos foram os que mais demonstraram lesões. Para a coluna cervical, a lesão mais identificada foi extrusão de disco e o local mais afetado foi C3-C4, enquanto a média de idade para lesões foi 8,09±3,55 anos. Já para cervicotorácica, a mineralização de disco foi mais frequente e média de idade para ocorrência de lesões foi de 6,96±2,93 anos. Concluiu-se que a coluna vertebral foi o principal alvo de tomografias, as lesões relacionadas ao disco intervertebral foram as mais identificadas, sendo animais SRD com idade avançada os mais acometidos.

Retrospective study on the incidence of cats and dogs' spinal injuries by computed tomographic scan. Part II: Thoracolumbar and lumbosacral / Estudo retrospectivo sobre incidência de injúrias em coluna vertebral de cães e gatos por meio de exame tomográfico. Parte II: Toracolombar e Lombossacral

For vertebromedullary injuries, epidemiological knowledge is essential to guide the choice of the most effective diagnostic method. The objective of this retrospective study was to describe the epidemiological profile of animals and thoracolumbar and lumbosacral spine lesions diagnosed by computed tomography scan. A compilation of CT scan reports for the aforementioned regions performed in a comercial diagnostic center from 04/01/2017 to 04/30/2020, contrasted and non-contrasted, from routine, was performed in order to list the most common lesions and their locations, as well as the species, breeds and ages most affected. There were 1164 CT scans performed in the period evaluated, all of them in dogs, 57,56% (n=670) for the spine, with 89,7% reports accessed (n=601), where the regions mentioned here added up to 73,05% studies (n=439). In both regions, male French Bulldog dogs had the most injuries. For the thoracolumbar region, disk mineralization, followed by extrusion, were the most frequent injuries, while the site was T12-13 and the mean age 6,5±3,63 years old. In the lumbosacral, disk protrusion was most frequent, the most affected site was L7-S1 and age 6,65±3,79 years. It was concluded that the spine is the main target of CT scans, and that lesions related to the intervertebral disk were the main ones identified, with chondrodystrophic animals being more predisposed to injury.

Para lesões vertebromedulares é indispensável o conhecimento epidemiológico para direcionar a escolha do método diagnóstico mais eficaz. O objetivo desse estudo retrospectivo foi descrever o perfil epidemiológico dos animais e das lesões em coluna vertebral toracolombar e lombossacral diagnosticadas através de exame tomográfico. Realizou-se a compilação de laudos de tomografias computadorizadas para as referidas regiões realizadas em centro diagnóstico comercial, entre 01/04/2017 a 30/04/2020, contrastadas e não-contrastadas, provenientes da rotina, a fim de relacionar as lesões e seus locais de ocorrência, bem como a espécie, raças e idades mais comuns. Foram realizados 1164 exames tomográficos no período avaliado, sendo 57,56% (n=670) para a coluna, com 89,7% laudos acessados (n=601), nos quais as regiões toracolombar e lombossacral somaram 73,05% dos estudos (n=439). Em ambas as regiões, os cães Bulldog Francês machos foram os que mais apresentaram lesões. Para a região toracolombar, a mineralização de disco, seguida pela extrusão, foram as lesões mais frequentes, enquanto o local foi T12-13 e a média de idade 6,5±3,63 anos. Na lombossacral, a protusão de disco foi mais frequente, o local mais afetado foi L7-S1 e idade de 6,65±3,79 anos. Concluiu-se que a coluna vertebral é o principal alvo de tomografias, e que as lesões relacionadas ao disco intervertebral foram as principais identificadas, sendo os animais condrodistróficos mais predispostos a lesões.

Aneurisma em veia cava caudal de cão: relato de caso / Caudal vena cava aneurysm: case report

Uma paciente da espécie canina de 9 anos de idade, SRD, foi encaminhado ao serviço de oncologia, após a retirada de um hemangiossarcoma dérmico em região de abdome. Após pesquisa de metástase, constatou por meio da radiografia de tórax presença de uma formação circular, homogênea de 4 cm em hemitórax direito em topografia de lobo acessório pulmonar. Foi então realizado exames complementares cardiológicos e de imagem tais como ecocardiograma e posteriormente tomografia computadorizada com contraste, que confirmou a presença de aneurisma em veia cava caudal. A paciente apresentava-se assintomática, portanto, tendo sido considerado um achado em estadiamento clínico. O aneurisma é uma dilatação vascular, patologia rara em cães, principalmente em veia cava caudal e suas causas ainda permanecem incertas, tendo na genética como a mais provável. Embora o hemangiosarcoma não seja a causa principal para o desenvolvimento do aneurisma, serviu de gatilho para esse achado. Essa patologia ainda permanece rara na medicina veterinária, mesmo sendo os animais utilizados como principais modelos de estudos para tratamento de aneurismas em humanos.

A 9-year-old canine patient, SRD, was referred to the oncology service after removal of a dermal hemangiosarcoma in the abdomen. After searching for metastasis, he found through chest radiography the presence of a circular, homogeneous 4 cm formation in the right hemithorax in topography of the pulmonary accessory lobe. Complementary cardiological and imaging exams, such as echocardiography and later contrast-enhanced computed tomography, were performed, which confirmed the presence of aneurysm in the caudal vena cava. The patient was asymptomatic, therefore, having been considered a finding in clinical staging. Aneurysm is a vascular dilation, a rare pathology in dogs, mainly in the caudal vena cava and its causes are still uncertain, with genetics as the most plausible and probable. Although hemangiosarcoma is not the main cause for the development of the aneurysm, it served as a trigger for this finding. This pathology still remains rare in veterinary medicine, even though animals are used as the main study models for the treatment of aneurysms in humans.

Criptococoma retrobulbar mimetizando tumor em labrador retriever / Retrobulbar cryptococcoma mimicking tumor in a Labrador Retriever

Background: Cryptococcosis is a systemic mycotic disease caused by encapsulated yeasts C. neoformans and C. gattii. Cryptococcus neoformans is predominantly found in soils and feces of pigeons and psittacids. Infection occurs mainly through the respiratory tract, through the inspiration of fungal propagules (basidiospores and/or desiccated yeast cells). The main lesions observed are in the nasal cavity and lungs, but in dogs, the central nervous system and eyes are widely affected. Despite some previously mentioned reports, the retrobulbar form has not been described in the literature. Therefore, the purpose of this report is to describe a case of retrobulbar cryptococcoma mimetizing a tumor in a young bitch. Case: A 2-year-old female Labrador Retriever, was admitted to one Veterinary Hospital with exophthalmia on the left eye for 15 days and other signs included negative retropulsion, mydriasis, and abscence of menace and pupillary reflexes. Ocular ultrasound imaging revealed a hyperecotic and heterogeneous retrobulbar mass in the mid-dorsal region compressing the optic nerve. Computed tomography of the skull showed the presence of proliferation of neoplastic tissue in a locally invasive retrobulbar region promoting moderate rostrolateral displacement of the left ocular bulb, discrete osthelysis in maxillary bone, palatine, medial wall of the orbital bone and frontal bone, with destruction of cribiform plate adjacent to the dorsal region of the orbital wall and presence of mild contrast uptake in the region of the left olfactory bulb lobe, characterizing a picture compatible with neoplasia with malignancy and locally invasive characteristics. Exenteration and excision of part of the frontal bone were performed and histopathological examination revealed granulation with the presence of fibroblasts and numerous typical blastoconidia of Cryptococcus neoformans. The patient was treated with Itraconazole [10 mg/kg, v.o, SID, for 90 days] and one year after diagnosis, X-ray was performed to control the lesion and radiographic aspects were within normal limits. Discussion: Cryptococcus sp. is an environmental fungus that has the potential to be pathogenic to humans and animals. Fungus present as a basidiospores in pigeon droppings. The patient described had a history of contact with free-living pigeons, making it a risk factor for the occurrence of cryptococcosis, being the possible cause of the infection. In dogs, the disease is mainly described in immunosuppressed animals, which was not the case of the patient, who presented clinical and laboratory results within the normal range and without a previous history of use of immunosuppressants. The alterations described in the computed tomography, such as destruction of the cribriform plate adjacent to the dorsal region of the left orbital wall and the presence of slight contrast uptake in the left olfactory bulb lobe region, are compatible with the main entry point for propagules of Cryptococcus sp. In the present case, no periocular and ocular alterations were observed as described in the literature, and the lesion was restricted to the retrobulbar space. Ultrasonography and computed tomography revealed a neoformation mimicking a malignant neoplasm and the diagnosis of cryptococcoma was revealed by histopathology. Based on the present case, cytology through aspiration of retrobulbal neoformations is imperative as a diagnostic method, especially in endemic areas for fungal diseases that can mimic ocular neoplasms.

Aneurisma em veia cava caudal de cão: relato de caso / Caudal vena cava aneurysm: case report

Uma paciente da espécie canina de 9 anos de idade, SRD, foi encaminhado ao serviço de oncologia, após a retirada de um hemangiossarcoma dérmico em região de abdome. Após pesquisa de metástase, constatou por meio da radiografia de tórax presença de uma formação circular, homogênea de 4 cm em hemitórax direito em topografia de lobo acessório pulmonar. Foi então realizado exames complementares cardiológicos e de imagem tais como ecocardiograma e posteriormente tomografia computadorizada com contraste, que confirmou a presença de aneurisma em veia cava caudal. A paciente apresentava-se assintomática, portanto, tendo sido considerado um achado em estadiamento clínico. O aneurisma é uma dilatação vascular, patologia rara em cães, principalmente em veia cava caudal e suas causas ainda permanecem incertas, tendo na genética como a mais provável. Embora o hemangiosarcoma não seja a causa principal para o desenvolvimento do aneurisma, serviu de gatilho para esse achado. Essa patologia ainda permanece rara na medicina veterinária, mesmo sendo os animais utilizados como principais modelos de estudos para tratamento de aneurismas em humanos.(AU)

A 9-year-old canine patient, SRD, was referred to the oncology service after removal of a dermal hemangiosarcoma in the abdomen. After searching for metastasis, he found through chest radiography the presence of a circular, homogeneous 4 cm formation in the right hemithorax in topography of the pulmonary accessory lobe. Complementary cardiological and imaging exams, such as echocardiography and later contrast-enhanced computed tomography, were performed, which confirmed the presence of aneurysm in the caudal vena cava. The patient was asymptomatic, therefore, having been considered a finding in clinical staging. Aneurysm is a vascular dilation, a rare pathology in dogs, mainly in the caudal vena cava and its causes are still uncertain, with genetics as the most plausible and probable. Although hemangiosarcoma is not the main cause for the development of the aneurysm, it served as a trigger for this finding. This pathology still remains rare in veterinary medicine, even though animals are used as the main study models for the treatment of aneurysms in humans.(AU)

Thoracic aortic aneurysm. An experimental model in pigs

ABSTRACT Purpose To describe an unpublished experimental model of descending thoracic aortic aneurysm in pigs. Methods Ten Landrace female pigs aged 10 to 12 weeks old and with initial weights from 17 to 25 kg were anesthetized and their descending thoracic aortas exposed by fifth intercostal space left thoracotomy. The thoracic aorta was isolated. A 2-cm wide × 2-cm long patch of ready-made bovine pericardium was sewn onto the left anterolateral side of the aorta. After three weeks' follow-up, a control aortography was taken, and the animals were euthanized. The segment of thoracic aorta containing the aneurysm and the adherent tissues were explanted en bloc. The specimens were stained for histological examination. Results One hundred percent of the animals survived the procedure, and after sacrifice a patent aneurysm was observed in all of them. There were no defects on the suture lines. Weight gain during follow-up was normal. All specimens exhibited intense adventitial reaction with myofibroblasts. There were no complications related to the thoracotomy. Conclusions The descending thoracic aortic aneurysms induced experimentally appear to be stable, were of easy execution, with null mortality and no influence on the animals' normal development. Furthermore, they have similar characteristics to those observed in human degenerative aneurysms.

Anatomical description of the skulls of peccaries (Tayassu tajacu, Linnaeus 1758) by computed tomography / [Descrição anatômica de crânio de catetos (Tayassu tajacu, Linnaeus, 1758) por tomografia computadorizada]

The aim of this study was to evaluate the anatomical structures of the skulls of peccaries to establish the basis for their clinical study and future preclinical research. Ten skulls of adult peccaries were subjected to tomographic examination. The data obtained were processed via three-dimensional image reconstruction software (3D images). The reconstructions obtained from the neurocranium of the studied specimens allowed the identification and description of the following structures: nasal bone, frontal bone, parietal bones, incisor bone, maxillary bone, zygomatic bone, temporal bone, palatal bone, occipital bone, vomer bone, pterygoid bone, sphenoid bone, paranasal sinuses and orbit. Computed tomography proved to be an important diagnostic tool in the investigation of the skull of this species, allowing the acquisition of anatomical values not yet documented for the species in the literature.(AU)

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar as estruturas anatômicas dos crânios de catetos, a fim de se estabelecerem as bases para seu estudo clínico e futuras pesquisas pré-clínicas. Dez crânios de catetos adultos foram submetidos a exame tomográfico. Os dados obtidos foram introduzidos em um software de reconstrução de imagens tridimensionais (imagens em 3D). As reconstruções obtidas do neurocrânio dos espécimes estudados permitiram a identificação e a descrição das seguintes estruturas: osso nasal, osso frontal, ossos parietais, osso incisivo, osso maxilar, osso zigomático, osso temporal, osso palatino, osso occipital, osso vômer, osso pterigoide, osso esfenoide, seios paranasais e órbita. A tomografia computadorizada mostrou-se como uma ferramenta diagnóstica importante na investigação do crânio dessa espécie, permitindo a aquisição de valores anatômicos ainda não documentados para a espécie na literatura.(AU)

Cenurose em ovino com sinais neurológicos - diagnóstico com tomografia computadorizada / Cenurosis in a sheep with neurological signs - diagnosis with computed tomography

Background: Cenurosis is a parasitic disease caused by Coenurus cerebralis, an intermediate form of Taenia multiceps multiceps, causing a fatal disease in production animals. Its adult form (Taenia) lodges in the small intestine of canids and can infect several intermediate hosts. Sheep are the main species affected by the disease, having nervous symptoms as one of its manifestations. This study aimed to describe the changes observed in computed tomography, as well as the clinical findings of a case of Cenurosis in a sheep on the western border of Rio Grande do Sul. Case: A ram was referred to the Centro Universitário da Região da Campanha (URCAMP) with neurological signs. Clinical, hematological, radiographic, tomographic and necroscopic evaluation of the animal was performed. There were no significant hematological and radiographic changes. During the neurological examination, corneal opacity was found in the right eyeball, associated with a visual deficit in the same eye. Also, when stimulated to move, it was possible to observe ataxia with ambulation to the left side, with right lateral displacement of the head. The tomography showed a hypodense area of approximately 3 cm at the base of the brain, in the region of the thalamus and third ventricle. Macroscopically, a translucent spherical cyst with approximately 4 cm in diameter was observed, containing the protoescolex/scolices of Taenia multiceps in the same region. Discussion: Computed tomography identified the presence of an apparently circular volume of approximately 4 cm in diameter, causing ventricular dilatation. This evidence of ventricular dilation corroborates aspects described in the literature, which found bilateral dilation of the ventricles by compression promoted by a cyst in the 4th ventricle. As the location of the cyst was located at the base of the brain, in the region of the third ventricle, it would be difficult to perform the surgery in the treatment of this case. Signs of ataxia, walking movements, decreased reflexes, nystagmus, unilateral blindness and lateral decubitus are commonly observed. Reports described that the main neurological alterations observed in 20 sheep with cenurosis were postural deficit, locomotion alteration, visual deficit and behavioral alterations, with more than 50% of the animals showing at least one of these signs. The main neurological signs observed in the case described were changes in gait, with walking, blindness, lateral head deviation and ataxia. These signs guide the clinical diagnosis of cenurosis. At necropsy, a spherical translucent cyst with approximately 4 cm in diameter was observed, containing the protoescolex/scolices of Taenia multiceps, which extended dorsally from the third ventricle to the base of the thalamus, laterally displaced to the right side. Rostrocaudal the lesion extended rostrally across the entire length of the thalamus to the beginning of the caudate nucleus and caudally to the base of the caudal colliculus, causing compression of the adjacent parenchyma, enabling the diagnosis of cenurosis. Similar findings are described as Coenurus cerebralis. This lesion pattern macroscopically characterizes the parasite lesions. Thus, it is concluded that the visualization of a hypodense area in CNS regions of sheep with neurological signs allows the diagnosis of cenurosis and precise location of the lesion. The description of this case adds information so that other professionals in the field can be successful in diagnosing the disease.

Comparison of radiographic and tomographic evaluations for measurement of the Canal Flare Index in dogs / [Comparação entre avaliação radiográfica e tomográfica para mensuração do Canal Flare Index em cães]

The outcome of total hip arthroplasty (THA) in dogs is directly related to surgical planning. Templating of radiographs prior to THA should help the surgeon anticipate prosthesis size and femoral shape allowing canal fill of the proximal metaphysis by the implant ensuring primary stable fixation. The canal flare index (CFI) obtained from radiograph has been used as a measure of risk of complications for the technique in human beings and dogs. However, standard radiographs only provide limited data for the selection of cementless prostheses and the assessment of their fit within the femoral canal, due to factors like radiographic magnification and femoral rotation. Therefore, three-dimensional evaluation based on computed tomography (CT) may be a better tool for CFI measurement. The aim of this study was to compare anatomical measurement with CFI values obtained from craniocaudal radiography and CT. Craniocaudal radiographs using a horizontal radiographic beam (CR), CT, and anatomical macroscopic measurements (A) were obtained from 45 femurs from 23 canine cadavers. The differences between the values of CFI obtained from radiograph (CFI-R), computed tomography on transverse (CFI- TT) and longitudinal axis (CFI-TL) compared to the CFI obtained from macroscopic measurements - gold standard - (CFI-A), and 95% limits of agreement (LOA) between the values, were evaluated by the Bland-Altman method. Dimensions obtained from CT techniques had a greatest mean difference from anatomical and CFI values were also different (P=0.032). Under the experimental conditions, the craniocaudal radiograph, provided the most accurate measurement of the CFI (mean difference: 0.087 ± 0.42).(AU)

O resultado da artroplastia total do quadril (ATQ) em cães está diretamente relacionado ao planejamento cirúrgico. O templating radiográfico pré-operatório da ATQ deve ajudar o cirurgião a prever o tamanho da prótese e o formato do fêmur, o que permitirá um preenchimento ideal da metáfise proximal pelo implante, garantindo, assim, fixação primária estável. O índice de alargamento do canal (Canal Flare Index - CFI) obtido em radiografias tem sido utilizado como fator de risco de complicações para a técnica em humanos e cães. No entanto, as radiografias podem fornecer apenas dados limitados para a seleção de próteses não cimentadas e a avaliação do seu encaixe no canal femoral, devido a fatores como ampliação radiográfica e rotação femoral. Portanto, a avaliação tridimensional baseada na tomografia computadorizada (TC) pode ser uma ferramenta vantajosa para a mensuração do CFI. O objetivo deste estudo foi comparar a medida anatômica com os valores de CFI obtidos na radiografia craniocaudal e na TC. Radiografias craniocaudais utilizando feixe radiográfico horizontal (CR), tomografia computadorizada e medidas macroscópicas anatômicas (A) foram obtidas de 45 fêmures de 23 cadáveres caninos. As diferenças entre os valores de CFI obtidos na radiografia (CFI-R), na tomografia computadorizada no eixo transversal (CFI-TT) e no eixo longitudinal (CFI-TL), em comparação com os valores de CFI obtidos nas medições macroscópicas - padrão-ouro - (CFI-A) e os limites de concordância de 95% (LOA) entre os valores, foram avaliadas pelo método de Bland-Altman. As dimensões obtidas pelas técnicas de TC apresentaram maior diferença média dos valores anatômicos, e as do CFI também foram diferentes (P=0,032). Nas condições experimentais, a radiografia craniocaudal forneceu a medida mais precisa do CFI (diferença média: 0,087 ± 0,42) para representar o padrão-ouro deste estudo.(AU)

Vantagens do rastreamento precoce de metástases por tomografia computadorizada na rotina clínica oncológica de tumores mamários em cadelas: revisão de literatura / Advantages of early metastasis screening by computed tomography in the clinical oncology routine of breast tumors in bitches: literature review

Os avanços clínicos, terapêuticos e diagnósticos ocorridos na Medicina Veterinária permitiram que a longevidade dos animais de estimação fosse ampliada. Com isso a casuística de atendimentos oncológicos na rotina clínica veterinária também vem crescendo, visto que a idade avançada é um grande fator predisponente ao câncer. O diagnóstico precoce é fundamental para o sucesso terapêutico, e os exames de imagem apresentam grande utilidade para a detecção tumoral e de metástases. O presente trabalho é uma revisão bibliográfica que analisa as vantagens da aplicabilidade de exames por imagem, mais precisamente da tomografia computadorizada (TC), em casos oncológicos de tumores das glândulas mamárias, com destaque para a sua importância no diagnóstico, estadiamento, planejamento e acompanhamento terapêutico na rotina clínica oncológica veterinária.

With the increase in the longevity of pets, mainly dogs and cats, due to their closer relationship with humans and also the clinical, therapeutic and diagnostic advances that occurred in veterinary medicine, it was observed an increase in the occurrence of oncological cases in the routine attendance of small animals. This article perform a bibliographic review, analysing the advantages of the applicability of imaging exams, more precisely computed tomography (CT), in oncological cases of tumor of the mammary glands, aiming to demonstrate its importance in the diagnosis, staging and therapeutic planning in veterinary oncology clinical routine.