Epizootiology of canine distemper in naturally infected dogs in Goiânia, Brazil / Epizootiologia da cinomose em cães naturalmente infectados em Goiânia, Brasil

Although the epizootiological profile of canine distemper in Goiânia is unknown, there is clinical evidence for a high incidence of canine distemper virus (CDV) infection among dogs. Therefore, this study determined the epizootiological characteristics of canine distemper in naturally infected dogs. Data of 46 dogs that tested positive for the CDV based on immunochromatography or reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction were collected. Data on the sex, breed, age, and vaccination status were obtained from these dogs, and extraneural and neural sign analyses were performed. Although, the infected dogs belonged to both sexes, different breeds, and different age groups, a greater proportion of cases were seen in adults (1-6 years), undefined breeds, and unvaccinated dogs. Among the CDV-positive dogs, 10.87% had been vaccinated. In addition, 4.35% showed neural signs, 8.69% showed extraneural signs, and 86.96% showed both. High lethality was observed, with viral antigen and/or DNA detected in 82.61% dead dogs. Only 8.70% of the total CDV-infected dogs remained alive at the time of their assessment.

Embora o perfil epizootiológico da cinomose canina em Goiânia seja desconhecido, há evidencia clínica para alta incidência da infecção pelo vírus da cinomose (CDV) nos cães. Este estudo objetivou determinar as características epizootiológicas da cinomose em cães naturalmente infectados. Dados de 46 cães positivos por imunocromatografia ou reação em cadeia da polimerase via transcriptase reversa para o CDV foram coletados. Dados sobre sexo, raça, idade, estado vacinal foram obtidos desses cães, e os sinais extraneurais e neurais foram analisados. Animais de ambos os sexos, diferentes raças e idades foram acometidos. A maior proporção de casos foi vista em adultos (de um a seis anos), sem raça definida e não vacinados. Dentre os cães positivos, 10,87% haviam sido vacinados. Em adição, 4,35% apresentaram sinais neurais, 8,69% sinais extraneurais e 86,96% mostraram ambos. Alta letalidade foi observada, com o antígeno viral e/ou DNA identificado em 82,61% dos cães que foram a óbito. Apenas 8,7% dos cães infectados permaneceram vivos até o momento da avaliação.

Neuropathology of natural canid alphaherpesvirus 1 infection in dogs

The neuropathology of canid alphaherpesvirus 1 (CaHV-1) infection in dogs has been reported, but the importance of the cerebellar lesions in the routine diagnosis remains relatively understated in the veterinary literature. Here we characterize the neuropathology of natural CaHV-1 infection in 25 dogs. The disease affected predominantly male dogs (22 cases). Clinical signs in 15 cases varied and sudden death was reported in 10 cases. All dogs had the typical areas of necrosis and hemorrhage in multiple organs with eosinophilic intranuclear viral inclusions in epithelial and/or inflammatory cells in multiple organs in 21 cases. Cerebral swelling and reddening were reported in 3 cases. Neurohistologic changes consisted of mild lymphoplasmacytic meningoencephalitis with occasional vasculitis and widespread glial nodules. Rare intranuclear viral inclusions (4 cases) were observed in endothelial cells or inflammatory cells in glial nodules. Cerebellum was examined in 11 cases and had extensive segmental necrosis of Purkinje cell layer (8 cases) and granule neurons in the internal (9 cases) or external (2 cases) granular cell layer. Intranuclear viral inclusions were observed in 8 cases and occurred in necrotic granule neurons in the inner granular cell layer (7 cases), outer granular cell layer (2 cases), Purkinje neurons (1 case), or endothelial cells (1 case). Diagnostic confirmation in 23 cases was based on routine histology and fluorescent antibody testing for CaHV-1 on fresh or frozen tissue samples. A routine diagnosis was based solely on the visualization of intranuclear viral inclusions in 2 cases.(AU)

Canine atopic dermatitis: systemic immunomodulatory protocol based on clinical phenotype / Dermatite atópica canina: protocolos imunomodulatórios sistêmicos baseados no fenótipo clínico

Canine atopic dermatitis (cAD) is a multifactorial allergic disease associated with immune dysfunction and abnormal skin barrier. Several immunological mediators play a role in its pathogenesis. Such molecules are produced by the activation of T helper lymphocytes (Th) through polarization to Th1 and/or Th2, which contributes to different lesion patterns. Acute lesions are mediated by an activation of the Th2 cytokine axis, which clinically induces erythema and pruritus. Conversely, in chronic injuries a mixed immune response of Th1/Th2 cytokines occurs, leading to hyperpigmented and lichenified skin. The clinical understanding of these patterns and the mode of action of immunomodulators are crucial for the best clinical management of the atopic patient. In this context, this review discussed the role of the immune response and the immunomodulatory drugs in dogs with atopic dermatitis and suggested a therapeutic protocol based on clinical phenotype. Based on the evidences showed in this review, it is considered appropriate to use immunomodulatory drugs that target cytokine spectrum related with the clinical phenotype of cAD.

A dermatite atópica canina (DAC) é uma doença alérgica multifatorial associada à disfunção imune e barreira cutânea anormal. Vários mediadores imunológicos desempenham um papel na sua patogênese. Tais moléculas são produzidas pela ativação de linfócitos T auxiliares (Th) por meio da polarização para Th1 e/ou Th2, o que contribui para diferentes padrões de lesão. Lesões agudas são mediadas pela ativação do eixo de citocinas Th2, que clinicamente induz eritema e prurido. Por outro lado, nas lesões crônicas ocorre uma resposta imune mista de citocinas Th1/Th2, levando à pele hiperpigmentada e liquenificada. O entendimento clínico desses padrões e o modo de ação dos imunomoduladores são cruciais para o melhor manejo clínico do paciente atópico. Esta revisão visa discutir o papel da resposta imune e das drogas imunomoduladoras em cães com dermatite atópica e sugerir um protocolo terapêutico baseado no fenótipo clínico. Baseado nas evidências apresentadas nessa revisão, é considerado apropriado utilizar drogas imunomoduladoras que abrangem o espectro de citocinas relacionadas ao fenótipo clínico da DAC.

Tridimensional models and radiographic study of dorsal laminectomy and thoracolumbar hemilaminectomy in dogs

Purpose: To create three-dimensional anatomical models of the thoracic and lumbar portions of the canine spine that reproduce the vertebral surgical approaches of dorsal laminectomy and hemilaminectomy, and to perform the respective radiographic evaluations of each approach. Methods: In a digital archive of the canine spine, digitally replicate the dorsal laminectomy and hemilaminectomy in the thoracic and lumbar portions and, then, make tridimensional prints of the vertebral models and obtain radiographs in three dorsoventral, ventrodorsal and laterolateral projections. Results: The anatomical models of the surgical spinal canal accesses of the thoracic and lumbar portions showed great fidelity to the natural bones. The created accesses have the proper shape, location and size, and their radiographic images showed similar radiodensities. Conclusions: The replicas of the dorsal laminectomy and hemilaminectomy developed in the anatomical models in the thoracic and lumbar portions are able to represent the technical recommendations of the specialized literature, as well as their respective radiographic images, which have certain radiological properties that allow to make a deep radiological study. Therefore, the models are useful for neurosurgical training.

Spatial analysis of leptospirosis and toxoplasmosis seroprevalence in the canine population in an area of socioeconomic and environmental vulnerability / Análise espacial da soroprevalência de leptospirose e toxoplasmose no população canina em área de vulnerabilidade socioeconômica e ambiental

Leptospirosis and toxoplasmosis are zoonoses of occupational character that are spread worldwide, mainly in tropical and socioeconomically vulnerable areas. Both diseases have vertebrate hosts, which spread the infectious agent to the environment and are potentially infectious to humans and can progress to fatal cases. The present study reinforces the importance of One Health for the control and prophylaxis of leptospirosis and toxoplasmosis using sentinel animals in areas of socioeconomic vulnerability based on a serological study. A total of 336 blood samples were obtained from the canine population of the urban district, which has high rates of poverty and sanitation. The results were analyzed based on seroreactivity animals and georeferencing by kernel spatial mapping. A total of 43.3% (52/120) of the animals were seroreagents for anti-Leptospira spp., with a predominance of Canicola (35/52 = 67.3%) and Pyrogenes (5/52 = 9.6%), while 52.97% (178/336) of the dogs were seroreactive for anti-Toxoplasma gondii. The presence of seroreagent dogs for both zoonosis alert to the inadequate hygienic-sanitary conditions of the studied region, and highlight the importance of a survey of the social, economic and environmental structure to identify factors related to the links in the epidemiological chain of pathogen transmission and necessary corrective actions.

Leptospirose e toxoplasmose são zoonoses de caráter ocupacional disseminadas mundialmente, principalmente em áreas tropicais e socioeconomicamente vulneráveis. Ambas as doenças têm hospedeiros vertebrados, que espalham o agente infeccioso para o meio ambiente e são potencialmente infecciosos para o homem, as quais podem evoluir para casos fatais. O presente estudo reforça a importância da saúde única para o controle e a profilaxia da leptospirose e da toxoplasmose, mediante a utilização de animais sentinela em áreas de vulnerabilidade socioeconômica, com base em estudo sorológico. Um total de 336 amostras de sangue foi obtido da população canina de um distrito urbano que apresenta altos índices de pobreza e ausência de saneamento básico. Os resultados foram analisados ​​com base em animais sororreagentes e georreferenciados por mapeamento espacial de Kernel. Um total de 43,3% (52/120) dos animais foi sororreagente para anti-Leptospira spp., com predominância de Canicola (35/52 = 67,3%) e Pirogenes (5/52 = 9,6%), enquanto 52,97% (178/336) dos cães foram sororreagentes para anti-Toxoplasma gondii. A presença de cães sororreagentes para ambas as doenças alerta para as condições higiênico-sanitárias inadequadas da região estudada e evidencia a importância de um levantamento da estrutura social, econômica e ambiental para identificar fatores relacionados aos elos da cadeia epidemiológica de transmissão do patógeno e ações corretivas necessárias.

First molecular description of autochthonous urban cases of canine visceral leishmaniasis in the city of Belém, Pará, Brazil / Primeira descrição molecular de casos autóctones urbanos de leishmaniose visceral canina na cidade de Belém, Pará, Brasil

Leishmaniasis is an anthropozoonosis transmitted by vectors, with dogs being the main domestic reservoirs. Brazil is one of the countries most affected by this disease, and it has been described in humans and dogs in every region in the country. In the northern region leishmaniasis cases in humans have been described in more than 100 municipalities in the State, including the capital, Belém. This study involves two cases of canine visceral leishmaniasis in which the animals developed clinical signs compatible with the disease in urban areas in Belém, the Pará state capital. The diagnosis was confirmed via polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to detect SSUr-rDNA and kDNA of Leishmania sp. and Leishmania infantum, respectively. In one of the cases the animal died and in the other the animal underwent treatment with medicines prescribed for dogs. Through this treatment, parasitemia in the second animal has been kept under control and is being monitored through molecular tests. Previously, no canine cases had been notified from urban neighborhoods in the city of Belém, but only on the island of Cotijuba, at a distance of 29 kilometers from the city. Cases of canine and human leishmaniasis have been recorded close to the capital, Belém, which has areas of conserved vegetation and where the presence of disease vectors has been described. Thus, as has been done in several other Brazilian cities, this study uses clinical and laboratory findings to confirm the presence of autochthonous cases of canine visceral leishmaniasis in the city of Belém.

A leishmaniose é uma antropozoonose transmitida por vetores, sendo os cães os principais reservatórios domésticos. O Brasil é um dos países mais acometidos por esta doença, sendo descrita em humanos e cães em todas as regiões do país. Na região norte casos de leishmaniose em humanos foram descritos em mais de 100 municípios do Estado, incluindo a capital, Belém. Este estudo envolve dois casos de leishmaniose visceral canina em que os animais desenvolveram sinais clínicos compatíveis com a doença em áreas urbanas de Belém, capital do estado do Pará. O diagnóstico foi confirmado pela reação em cadeia da polimerase (PCR) para detectar o SSUr-rDNA e kDNA de Leishmania sp e Leishmania infantum, respectivamente. Em um dos casos o animal veio a óbito e no outro o animal foi submetido a tratamento com medicamentos prescritos para cães. Por meio desse tratamento, a parasitemia no segundo animal foi mantida sob controle e está sendo monitorada por meio de testes moleculares. Anteriormente, nenhum caso canino havia sido notificado em bairros urbanos da cidade de Belém, apenas na ilha de Cotijuba, distante 29 quilômetros da cidade. Casos de leishmaniose canina e humana foram registrados próximo à capital, Belém, que possui áreas de vegetação conservada e onde foi descrita a presença de vetores de doenças. Assim, como tem sido registrado em várias outras cidades brasileiras, este estudo utiliza achados clínicos e laboratoriais para confirmar a presença de casos autóctones de leishmaniose visceral canina na cidade de Belém.

Tungíase em cão de uma comunidade rural do estado do Maranhão / Tungíasis in a dog from a rural community in the state of Maranhão

A tungíase é uma infecção parasitária causada pela fêmea da pulga Tunga penetrans, que penetra na pele do hospedeiro para se alimentar e desenvolver seus ovos, gerando lesões que provocam prurido e dor. Assim, o objetivo deste trabalho foi relatar um caso de tungíase em um cão domiciliado em uma comunidade rural de Colinas, Maranhão. Em julho de 2020, um cachorro da raça American Pit Bull Terrier, com um ano e oito meses de idade, foi levado a uma clínica veterinária apresentando irritação e incômodo nas patas, o que dificultava sua locomoção. O cão vivia em uma residência com solo de chão batido, com acesso à rua e o tutor não possuía outros animais. Ao exame físico, constatou-se a presença de ectoparasitos nos coxins palmares e plantares, que foram retirados com auxílio de pinça cirúrgica e encaminhados ao Laboratório de Parasitologia da UFPI para identificação, confirmando tratar-se de pulgas da espécie Tunga penetrans. O cão recebeu tratamento à base de ivermectina 1%, 0,5mL via subcutânea, dose única, apresentando melhora no quadro clínico, e o tutor recebeu orientações sobre a desinfestação do ambiente. Conclui-se que a tungíase pode acometer cães em áreas rurais de um município do Maranhão, sendo importante o diagnóstico precoce e o tratamento adequado.

Tungiasis is a parasitic infection caused by the female flea Tunga penetrans, which penetrates the host's skin to feed and develop its eggs, generating lesions that provoke itching and pain. Thus, this study aimed to report a case of tungiasis in a dog domiciled in a rural community in Colinas, Maranhão. In july 2020, an American Pit Bull Terrier dog, one year and eight months old, was taken to a veterinary clinic with irritation and discomfort in the paws, which made it difficult to move. The dog lived in a house with beaten ground soil, had access to the street, and the tutor had no other animals. The physical examination showed the presence of ectoparasites on the palm and plantar pads, which were removed with surgical tweezers and sent to the UFPI Parasitology Laboratory for identification, confirming that they were Tunga penetrans fleas. The dog received a treatment based on ivermectin 1%, 0.5mL subcutaneously, single dose, showing improvement in the clinical picture, and the tutor received guidance on the disinfection of the environment. It is concluded that tungiasis can affect dogs in rural areas of a city in Maranhão, being important the early diagnosis and adequate treatment.

Follicular cystitis in a dog: first case report described in Brazil / Cistite folicular em cão: primeiro relato de caso descrito no Brasil

A 2-year-old English bulldog presented history of recurrent lower urinary tract disease, refractory to treatment. The Complete Blood Count revealed lymphopenia, hyperproteinemia, and hyperglobulinemia, while urinalysis indicated leukocyturia and bacteriuria. On the abdominal ultrasound, the bladder had a focal wall thickening in its cranial portion, as well as irregular echogenicity and internal margins. A bladder surgical biopsy was performed, indicating the presence of follicular cystitis. Clinical signs disappeared after treatment with a combination of amoxicillin and clavulanic acid, NSAIDs, supplementation with cranberry extract associated with cat's claw (Uncaria tomentosa). Clinical follow-up 12 months after surgery showed remission at all clinical signs. Follicular cystitis in dogs was reported only once worldwide, this case report is the first in Brazil; thus, it may be considered in the differential diagnosis for patients with refractory and recurrent lower urinary tract disease.

Um Bulldog Inglês de 2 anos apresentou história clínica de doença recorrente do trato urinário inferior, refratária ao tratamento. O hemograma revelou uma discreta linfopenia, hiperproteinemia e hiperglobulinemia. Já a urinálise apontou leucocitúria e bacteriúria. Na ultrassonografia, a bexiga apresentava espessamento focal da parede da bexiga em porção cranial, ecogênica e margens internas irregulares. A biópsia cirúrgica da bexiga foi compatível com cistite folicular. Os sinais clínicos desapareceram após o tratamento com uma combinação de amoxicilina - ácido clavulânico, AINEs, suplementação alimentar de extrato de cranberry associado a unha de gato (fitoterápico da planta Uncaria tomentosa). O acompanhamento, 12 meses após a cirurgia, confirmou que o cão estava livre de sinais clínicos. A cistite folicular foi relatada apenas em 1 cão no mundo, sendo esse considerado o primeiro relato no Brasil. Essa enfermidade deve ser considerada um diferencial para pacientes com doença refratária do trato urinário inferior de longa data.

Mutations of the c-KIT gene in canine mast cell tumors and respective nodal metastases classified according to mast cell infiltration / Mutações no gene c-KIT em mastocitomas caninos e respectivas metástases nodais classificados segundo a infiltração de mastócitos

The molecular background of canine mast cell tumors (MCT) has been extensively investigated; however, the dynamic molecular changes that occur during carcinogenesis and metastasis are not fully understood. This study aimed to evaluate the incidence of mutations in the c-KIT proto-oncogene in canine MCTs and relative draining regional lymph nodes. Suspected or confirmed lymph node metastasis was classified accordingly to the HN Weishaar classification. The study included 34 dogs diagnosed with MCT; 19 patients were enrolled prospectively. These dogs had the primary MCT and regional lymph node resected and analyzed simultaneously. The second group was evaluated retrospectively and included fifteen patients resectioning the primary MCT without evaluation of regional lymph node. Analyzes of c-KIT mutation were performed for all primary MCTs and, in the first group, compared between primary MCT and HN-classified metastasis. Internal tandem duplications (ITD) in exon 11 of the c-KIT gene were detected in 20% of patients. Ten of the nineteen patients (52%) in the first group presented mast cell infiltration in the regional lymph node, and ITD in exon 11 of the c-KIT gene was detected in five and two dogs from Groups 1 and 2, respectively. ITD c-KIT mutations are common in canine MCT and may be found in the draining lymph node metastases/mast cell infiltrates in the absence of mutation of the primary tumor. Evaluation of c-KIT mutation in the primary tumor and metastases may be informative for defining both prognosis and therapeutic options in MCT cases.

O perfil molecular do mastocitoma (MCT) tem sido bastante investigado, no entanto as dinâmicas moleculares que ocorrem durante a carcinogênese e metástase desta neoplasia não estão bem esclarecidas. O objetivo desse estudo foi avaliar a incidência de mutações no proto-oncogene c-KIT em MCTs caninos e respectivos linfonodos regionais. Os casos suspeitos ou confirmados de metástase para os linfonodos, foram classificados de acordo com a classificação HN de Weishaar. O estudo incluiu 34 cães diagnosticados com MCT e, desses, 19 pacientes foram avaliados de maneira prospectiva, em que o tumor primário e o linfonodo regional foram ressecados e analisados simultaneamente. O segundo grupo foi avaliado retrospectivamente e incluiu quinze pacientes que tiveram ressecção do MCT primário sem avaliação de linfonodo regional. A análise da mutação c-KIT foi realizada para todos os MCTs primários e, no primeiro grupo, comparados entre MCT primário e metástase classificada pelo sistema HN. Duplicações internas em tandem (DIT), no exon 11 do gene c-KIT, foram detectadas em um total de 20% dos pacientes. Dez dos dezenove pacientes (52%) do primeiro grupo apresentavam infiltração de mastócitos no linfonodo regional, e DIT no exon 11 do gene c-KIT foram identificadas em cinco e dois cães dos Grupos 1 e 2, respectivamente. Mutações do tipo DIT no gene c-KIT são comuns no MCT canino e podem estar presentes nas metástases/infiltrados de mastócitos na ausência de mutação do tumor primário. A avaliação da mutação no gene c-KIT no tumor primário e metástases pode ser informativa para definir tanto o prognóstico quanto as opções terapêuticas em casos de MCT.

Finite element analysis of a new intervertebral disc prosthesis developed for the canine cervical spine / Elementos finitos de uma nova prótese de disco intervertebral desenvolvida para a coluna cervical canina

Cervical spondylomyelopathy (CSM) is a disease that affects mostly large- and giant-breed dogs. It is characterized by abnormalities of the cervical spine that may cause damage to the spinal cord and nerve roots. Cervical disc arthroplasty has been proposed as a treatment option in veterinary medicine. The current study evaluated the main stresses in a novel canine vertebral disc prosthesis and vertebral bodies using finite element analysis. Two experimental groups were created based on the material used for the prosthesis: stainless steel group (SSG) and titanium alloy group (TAG). Vertebral and prosthetic average equivalents von-Mises stress (VMS) and minimum principal stress (MiPS) were assessed while compressive, tensile, and lateral bending shear loads were applied. The stainless steel group had greater VMS distribution on all the evaluated parameters while the titanium alloy group had greater MiPS. Stresses were more concentrated on the lateral and ventral surfaces of the vertebral bodies than on their endplates. The average prosthetic stresses were more concentrated on the bone/implant contact surface than on the prosthesis/screw interface. Maximum stresses were concentrated in the screws' cranial surface. The novel prosthesis allows even distribution along the vertebral body. Comparing prosthesis materials, titanium alloy was marginally superior regarding average stresses in all directions and should be less likely to suffer subsidence.

Espondilomielopatia cervical (EMC) é uma doença que geralmente afeta cães de raças grandes e gigantes. Ela é caracterizada por anormalidades da coluna cervical que podem causar danos à medula espinhal ou às raízes nervosas. Artroplastia cervical com prótese de disco tem sido proposta como opção de tratamento na medicina veterinária. O presente estudo teve como objetivo avaliar os principais estresses em uma nova prótese de disco intervertebral canina e corpos vertebrais por meio da análise de elementos finitos. Foram compostos dois grupos experimentais que representaram o material constituinte da nova prótese: grupos aço inoxidável (SSG) e o liga de titânio (TAG). Tensões equivalente de von-Mises (VMS) e tensão principal mínima (MiPS) média foram avaliadas sob forças de compressão, tração e torção para vértebras e prótese. O grupo SSG teve maior distribuição de VMS para todos parâmetros avaliados, enquanto o grupo TAG teve maior MiPS. Estresses estiveram mais concentrados nas superfícies lateral e ventral dos corpos vertebrais do que nas placas terminais. Os estresses médios da prótese foram mais concentrados na superfície de contato osso/implante do que na interface prótese/parafuso. Estresses máximos foram concentrados na superfície cranial do parafuso. A nova prótese permitiu distribuição uniforme do estresse ao longo do corpo vertebral. Comparando os materiais da prótese, a liga de titânio foi marginalmente superior quanto aos estresses médios em todas as direções, sendo menos provável que sofra afundamento da prótese.

Mixed infection of Bartonella and Eperythrozoon in a dog: case report / Infecção mista de Bartonella e Eperythrozoon em um cão: relato de caso

A March male Golden, weighing 7.6kg, presented with gradual weight loss, high body temperature, depression, poor appetite and thirst, and vomiting before consultation. The results showed that the erythrocytes, hematocrit, hemoglobin, and platelets were lower than the reference values. The diagnosis of mixed infection with haematocrit and eosinophilic bodies was confirmed by real-time fluorescence PCR of whole blood, which was positive for haematocrit and eosinophilic bodies. The dog was treated with doxycycline and ceftriaxone, and the dog fully recovered after 2 weeks with blood transfusion, symptomatic treatment, and supportive therapy. This indicates that the disease can be treated well by a comprehensive treatment approach.

Um March Golden macho, pesando 7,6kg, apresentou perda de peso gradual, temperatura corporal alta, depressão, falta de apetite e sede, e vômitos antes da consulta. Os resultados mostraram que os eritrócitos, hematócrito, hemoglobina e plaquetas eram menores que os valores de referência. O diagnóstico de infecção mista com hematócrito e corpos eosinófilos foi confirmado por PCR de fluorescência em tempo real de sangue total, o que foi positivo para hematócrito e corpos eosinófilos. O cão foi tratado com doxiciclina e ceftriaxona, e o cão recuperou-se completamente após duas semanas com transfusão de sangue, tratamento sintomático e terapia de suporte. Isto indica que a doença pode ser bem tratada através de uma abordagem de tratamento abrangente.

Concomitant occurrence of multicentric hemangiosarcoma and histiocytic sarcoma in a dog

Histiocytic sarcoma (HS) is uncommon malignant neoplasia of round cells with marked predilection in Rottweiler and Bernese Mountain. The disseminated form, which mainly affects the spleen, lungs, lymph nodes, bone marrow, skin, and subcutis, presents a quick and aggressive clinical behavior. Hemangiosarcoma (HAS) is a malignant neoplasm of endothelial vessel cells commonly reported to affect the right atrium of dogs' hearts. A male Rottweiler, five years old, presented flaccid paraplegia and progressive muscular atrophy in the temporal, masseter, and limbs muscles; Due to the clinical stage of the animal, euthanasia was conducted. During the necroscopic examination, it was noticed that several masses presented different sizes; some were whitish, and others were reddish and spread in multiple organs (lungs, heart, spleen, stomach, kidneys, brain, medulla, skeletal muscle, and pre-scapular lymph node). Microscopically, in some organs such as the stomach, right ventricle, lungs, and medulla, it was noticed a proliferation of myeloid cells, highly cellular, with poor demarcation, no encapsulation, and with the infiltrative growth pattern of cells with high pleomorphism. Numerous tumoral emboli were observed in the spleen, brain, skeletal muscle, and lymph node. These cells were submitted for immunohistochemistry and were positive for CD18 (HS antibody). In the right atrium, liver, and kidney it was observed malignant and infiltrative endothelial proliferation (HSA) and emboli in the medulla. Therefore, we conclude that both neoplasms (HS and HSA) cause the animal's paraplegia due to their embolism and metastasis to the spinal cord and skeletal muscle.(AU)

Warty Dyskeratoma with involvement of multiple hair follicles in a dog

The warty dyskeratoma is a neoplasm of follicular origin, with uncommon incidence in veterinary medicine, and benign biological behavior. An excisional biopsy sample was received from a dog, female, Shih Tzu, 12 years old, from the left axillary region. Grossly, after section, green and friable multifocal areas were identified, streaked by solid white areas. Microscopically, the analysis revealed multifocal cystic structures, lined by stratified epithelium, with basal area including villous epithelial projections, toward the dermis, and the luminal region featured acantholysis and dyskeratosis, as well as parakeratosis. Those findings were compatible with a warty dyskeratoma affecting multiple hair follicles, thus being the first case report in veterinary medicine with such this unique pattern. Up to now, the literature encompassed only human medicine. This report, besides collaborating to the description of a rare presentation of an uncommon neoplasm, also contributes with new information found for epidemiological studies of this tumor.(AU)

Plasma nitric oxide in dogs with pulmonary hypertension secondary or not to left-sided heart disease / Óxido nítrico plasmático em cães com hipertensão pulmonar secundária ou não à doença cardíaca esquerda

Nitric oxide (NO) is an important mediator responsible for vasodilation in pulmonary hypertension (PH) in humans. Based on human literature, it is suggested that in dogs there is also NO production decrease in lung tissue in the presence of PH with hypoxia. Therefore, the aim of this research was to determine the indirect plasmatic NO concentration in dogs with PH secondary or not to the left-side heart disease (LHD) and also with low, intermediate and high probability of PH to characterize the NO involvement on PH in dogs. Blood samples were collected from 35 dogs with probability of PH to NO measurement. NO concentration was estimated by the nitrite/nitrate concentration, and it was significantly different (p=0.002) in dogs with PH secondary to LHD (median=14 µM, range 11.19-16.59) and not secondary to LHD (median=25.88µM, range 15.08-36.71). However, this was not significant for the probability of low, intermediate, and high PH, although there was a tendency for NO concentration to be higher in dogs with high PH. The results of this study demonstrate that there is release of NO in dogs with PH, as well as that its dosage could differentiate dogs with PH secondary to LHD from dogs with non-secondary PH.

O óxido nítrico (ON) é um importante vasodilatador na hipertensão pulmonar (HP) em seres humanos. Baseado na literatura humana, sugere-se que em cães também ocorra a diminuição da produção de ON no tecido pulmonar na presença de HP frente à hipóxia. Dessa forma, o objetivo desta pesquisa foi determinar a concentração indireta do ON plasmático em cães com HP secundária ou não à doença do lado esquerdo do coração (LHD), bem como caracterizar os achados ecocardiográficos de diagnóstico e a probabilidade de HP (baixa, intermediária e alta). Para isso, foram coletadas amostras de sangue de 35 cães com probabilidade de HP para mensuração de ON. A concentração do ON foi estimada pela concentração de nitrito/nitrato, e esta foi significativamente diferente (P=0,002) nos cães com HP secundária à LHD (mediana=14µM, intervalo 11,19-16,59) e não secundária à LHD (mediana=25,88µM, intervalo 15,08-36,71), porém não significativa para a probabilidade de HP baixa, intermediária e alta, embora houvesse uma tendência a ser maior a concentração de ON nos cães com probabilidade alta. Os resultados deste estudo demonstram que há liberação do ON em cães com HP, bem como que sua dosagem conseguiu diferenciar cães com HP secundária à LHD de cães com HP não secundária.

In-house serological ELISA as a leishmaniosis diagnostic test: development and applications in canines from the western border of Brazil / ELISA "in house" para o diagnóstico de leishmaniose: desenvolvimento e aplicação em caninos da fronteira Oeste do Brasil

Leishmaniosis is a great public health problem affecting both humans and animals. The disease is caused by the protozoan Leishmania spp., which has a complex cycle involving a phlebotomine vector. The ELISA test (Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay) along with a chromatographic immunoassay was defined by the Brazil Health Ministry as the confirmatory screening protocol in 2011. Uruguaiana city is 630 km away from Porto Alegre, which makes it difficult to send samples and diagnose leishmaniasis, as well as receive quick results. In view of this, the present study evaluated an in-house indirect ELISA method compared to indirect immunofluorescence assay (IFA) and dual-path platform chromatographic immunoassay (DPP-BioManguinhos®) for the detection of an immune response to Leishmania spp. in canine species. The serological evaluation included 48 canines from the western border of Brazil (Uruguaiana and Barra do Quaraí city). Among the 48 canine samples tested, 18 were positive when using the ELISA technique, 19 were positive with IFA, and 17 were positive with rapid test DPP®. The ELISA technique showed a sensitivity/specificity of 83.3%/86.7% when compared to IFA and 100%/96.8% compared to DPP®. The present study showed a prevalence of 37.5%, demonstrating that the infection circulates in the studied population. It can be concluded that the ELISA technique was valuable for use in field conditions when performing screening tests in endemic areas.

A leishmaniose é um grande problema de saúde pública que afeta tanto humanos quanto animais. A doença é causada pelo protozoário Leishmania spp., que possui um ciclo complexo envolvendo um vetor flebotomíneo. O teste ELISA (Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay), juntamente com um imunoensaio cromatográfico, foi definido pelo Ministério da Saúde do Brasil como protocolo de triagem confirmatória em 2011. A cidade de Uruguaiana fica a 630 km de Porto Alegre, o que dificulta o envio de amostras e o diagnóstico da leishmaniose, além da demora para obter os resultados. Diante disso, o presente estudo teve como objetivo avaliar um método de ELISA indireto in-house comparado ao ensaio de imunofluorescência indireta (IFA) e imunoensaio cromatográfico de plataforma de dupla via (DPP-BioManguinhos®) para a detecção de uma resposta imune contra Leishmania spp. na espécie canina. A avaliação sorológica incluiu 48 caninos da fronteira oeste do Brasil (cidade de Uruguaiana e Barra do Quaraí). Das 48 amostras caninas testadas, 18 foram positivas na técnica de ELISA, 19 foram positivas com IFA e 17 foram positivas com o teste rápido DPP®. A técnica de ELISA apresentou sensibilidade/especificidade de 83,3%/86,7% quando comparada ao IFA e 100%/96,8% em relação ao DPP®. O presente estudo apresentou prevalência de 37,5%, demonstrando que a infecção circula na população estudada. Pode-se concluir que a técnica de ELISA foi valiosa para uso em condições de campo na realização de testes de triagem em áreas endêmicas.

Lomustine for treatment of canine transmissible venereal tumor / Eficácia da lomustina no tratamento do tumor venéreo transmissível canino

Canine transmissible venereal tumor (TVTC) is a highly casuistic transmissible neoplasm in Brazil. Chemotherapy with vincristine sulfate is considered the treatment of choice, but the need for weekly applications and hematological monitoring, in addition to costs, are obstacles to owners' adhesion to the treatment. Lomustine is an alkylating class antineoplastic agent, and because it is administered orally, it is a more practical and less costly treatment option for the owners of animals with neoplasms sensitive to the drug. This study evaluated the therapeutic efficacy of lomustine in dogs affected by TVTC. Twelve dogs with cytopathological diagnosis of natural genital TVTC were selected. The dogs were submitted to the experimental protocol with lomustine administration at doses of 70 to 85 mg/m2 orally every 21 days, totaling a maximum of two administration cycles. The animals were reevaluated every 7 days until a maximum of +49 days after the first dose of lomustine, to monitor the regression of neoplastic lesions through measurements. Among the 12 dogs submitted to the lomustine protocol, 8/12 achieved complete remission of the neoplasm and were considered cured (66.6%), 1/12 had partial response to treatment (8.33%) and 3/12 had stable disease (25%). Important adverse effects such as severe neutrophilic leukopenia were detected in 3/12 dogs (25%). The clinical study indicated that lomustine may be a treatment option for TVTC.

O tumor venéreo transmissível canino (TVTC) é uma neoplasia transmissível de elevada casuística no Brasil. A quimioterapia com sulfato de vincristina é considerada o tratamento de escolha, mas a necessidade de aplicações semanais e acompanhamento hematológico, além dos custos, são obstáculos à adesão dos proprietários ao tratamento. A lomustina é um antineoplásico da classe dos agentes alquilantes e, por ser administrado por via oral, representa um opção de tratamento mais prática e menos onerosa para os proprietários de animais com neoplasias. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a eficácia terapêutica da lomustina em cães acometidos por TVTC. Foram selecionados 12 cães com diagnóstico citopatológico de TVTC genital de ocorrência natural. Os cães foram submetidos ao protocolo experimental com administração de lomustina nas doses de 70 a 85 mg/m2 por via oral a cada 21 dias, totalizando no máximo dois ciclos de administração. Os animais foram reavaliados a cada sete dias até um máximo de +49 dias após a primeira dose de lomustina, para monitorar a regressão das lesões neoplásicas por meio de mensuração das lesões. Entre os 12 cães submetidos ao protocolo, 8/12 obtiveram remissão completa da neoplasia e foram considerados curados (66,6%), 1/12 tiveram resposta parcial ao tratamento (8,33%) e 3/12 tiveram doença estável (25%). Efeitos adversos importantes, como leucopenia neutrofílica grave, foram detectados em 3/12 cães (25%). O estudo clínico indicou que a lomustina pode ser uma opção de tratamento para TVTC.

Finite element analysis of a new intervertebral disc prosthesis developed for the canine cervical spine / Elementos finitos de uma nova prótese de disco intervertebral desenvolvida para a coluna cervical canina

ABSTRACT: Cervical spondylomyelopathy (CSM) is a disease that affects mostly large- and giant-breed dogs. It is characterized by abnormalities of the cervical spine that may cause damage to the spinal cord and nerve roots. Cervical disc arthroplasty has been proposed as a treatment option in veterinary medicine. The current study evaluated the main stresses in a novel canine vertebral disc prosthesis and vertebral bodies using finite element analysis. Two experimental groups were created based on the material used for the prosthesis: stainless steel group (SSG) and titanium alloy group (TAG). Vertebral and prosthetic average equivalents von-Mises stress (VMS) and minimum principal stress (MiPS) were assessed while compressive, tensile, and lateral bending shear loads were applied. The stainless steel group had greater VMS distribution on all the evaluated parameters while the titanium alloy group had greater MiPS. Stresses were more concentrated on the lateral and ventral surfaces of the vertebral bodies than on their endplates. The average prosthetic stresses were more concentrated on the bone/implant contact surface than on the prosthesis/screw interface. Maximum stresses were concentrated in the screws' cranial surface. The novel prosthesis allows even distribution along the vertebral body. Comparing prosthesis materials, titanium alloy was marginally superior regarding average stresses in all directions and should be less likely to suffer subsidence.

RESUMO: Espondilomielopatia cervical (EMC) é uma doença que geralmente afeta cães de raças grandes e gigantes. Ela é caracterizada por anormalidades da coluna cervical que podem causar danos à medula espinhal ou às raízes nervosas. Artroplastia cervical com prótese de disco tem sido proposta como opção de tratamento na medicina veterinária. O presente estudo teve como objetivo avaliar os principais estresses em uma nova prótese de disco intervertebral canina e corpos vertebrais por meio da análise de elementos finitos. Foram compostos dois grupos experimentais que representaram o material constituinte da nova prótese: grupos aço inoxidável (SSG) e o liga de titânio (TAG). Tensões equivalente de von-Mises (VMS) e tensão principal mínima (MiPS) média foram avaliadas sob forças de compressão, tração e torção para vértebras e prótese. O grupo SSG teve maior distribuição de VMS para todos parâmetros avaliados, enquanto o grupo TAG teve maior MiPS. Estresses estiveram mais concentrados nas superfícies lateral e ventral dos corpos vertebrais do que nas placas terminais. Os estresses médios da prótese foram mais concentrados na superfície de contato osso/implante do que na interface prótese/parafuso. Estresses máximos foram concentrados na superfície cranial do parafuso. A nova prótese permitiu distribuição uniforme do estresse ao longo do corpo vertebral. Comparando os materiais da prótese, a liga de titânio foi marginalmente superior quanto aos estresses médios em todas as direções, sendo menos provável que sofra afundamento da prótese.

Isoxazolinas no tratamento da demodicidose canina ­ Revisão de literatura / Isoxazolines in the treatment of canine demodicosis ­ literature review / Isoxazolinas en el tratamiento de la demodicosis canina ­ revisión de la literatura

A demodicidose canina é uma dermatopatia parasitária inflamatória comum na rotina clínica. Ela é causada pela proliferação exacerbada do ácaro Demodex spp., e a espécie mais frequentemente encontrada e que causa a doença clínica é o Demodex canis. A doença pode ser classificada conforme a distribuição das lesões e a idade em que elas surgem. Os sinais clínicos mais comuns incluem alopecia, eritema, hiperpigmentação e descamação, e o diagnóstico mais preconizado é o exame parasitológico do raspado cutâneo. Diversos protocolos terapêuticos para a demodicidose canina têm sido estudados, e por muito tempo utilizou-se o amitraz, sendo ao longo dos anos substituído por fármacos da classe das lactonas macrocíclicas, pela praticidade de sua administração. Contudo, mais recentemente, as isoxazolinas (fluralaner, afoxolaner e sarolaner) foram descobertas como miticidas, e nos últimos anos têm demonstrado excelentes resultados. O presente trabalho tem como objetivo realizar uma revisão de literatura sobre as isoxazolinas no tratamento da demodicidose canina.(AU)

Canine demodicosis is an inflammatory parasitic skin disease common in clinical routine. It is caused by the exacerbated proliferation of the Demodex spp., and the most frequently encountered species that causes clinical disease is Demodex canis. The disease can be classified according to the distribution of lesions and the age at which they appear. The most common clinical signs include alopecia, erythema, hyperpigmentation and desquamation, and the most recommended diagnosis is the parasitological examination of the skin scraping. Several therapeutic protocols for canine demodicosis have been studied, and for a long time the main therapeutic of this disease was amitraz, being replaced over the years by drugs of the macrocyclic lactone class due to the practicality of its administration. However, more recently the isoxazolines (fluralaner, afoxolaner and sarolaner) were discovered as miticides, and in recent years they have shown excellent efficacy results, coming to revolutionize the therapy of canine demodicosis. The present study aims to review the literature on isoxazolines in the treatment of canine demodicosis.(AU)

La demodicosis canina es una enfermedad inflamatoria parasitaria de la piel común en la rutina clínica. Es causada por la proliferación exacerbada de Demodex spp., y la especie más frecuente que causa enfermedad clínica es Demodex canis. La enfermedad se puede clasificar según la distribución de las lesiones y la edad en que aparecen. Los signos clínicos más frecuentes incluyen alopecia, eritema, hiperpigmentación y descamación, y el diagnóstico más recomendado es el examen parasitológico del raspado cutáneo. Se han estudiado varios protocolos terapéuticos para la demodicosis canina, y durante mucho tiempo la principal terapéutica de esta enfermedad fue el amitraz, siendo reemplazada con el paso de los años por fármacos de la clase de las lactonas macrocíclicas debido a la practicidad de su administración. Sin embargo, más recientemente se descubrieron las isoxazolinas (fluralaner, afoxolaner y sarolaner) como acaricidas, y en los últimos años han mostrado excelentes resultados de eficacia, llegando a revolucionar la terapia de la demodicosis canina. El presente estudio tiene como objetivo revisar la literatura sobre las isoxazolinas en el tratamiento de la demodicosis canina.(AU)

Antiparkinsoniano para tratamento de sequelas neurológicas causadas pela cinomose / Antiparkinsonian for treatment of neurological sequels caused by canine distemper

Background: Canine distemper (CD) is a highly contagious viral disease caused by the canine distemper virus (CDV). In dogs, CDV infection is characterized by the presentation of systemic and/or neurological signs with viral persistence in some organs, including the central nervous system (CNS). Neurological damages resulting from CD are a defiance for veterinarians, due to occasioned clinical sequels that influence the patient quality of life. The treatment of sequelae should seek to promote the resolution or decrease of the deleterious effects that impede the patient independence. Thus, the present report aims to describe the action of antiparkinsonian medication (levodopa associated with carbidopa) administered to 3 dogs who presented neurological sequels resulting from the canine distemper. Cases: Dog 1. A 9-month-old male mixed breed; Dog 2. A 6-month-old male Shih Tzu. Dog 3. A 8-years-old bitch mixed breed. All animals were referred for neurological care because presented neurological damages after distemper involvement. Only the Dog 2 was vaccinated to CD. Dog 1 (mixed male) had severe myoclonus, lack of proprioception, decreased of muscle tonus and paralysis in both pelvic limbs, associated with a marked thoracolumbar kyphosis. Dog 2 (a puppy Shih Tzu male) presented myoclonus in PL, proprioceptive loss in thoracic and pelvic limbs, absence of withdrawal reflex in thoracic and pelvic limbs, decrease in muscle tonus in pelvic limb and increase in thoracic limb. Dog 3 (adult unneutered bitch) presented intense myoclonus, absence of proprioception, decrease in muscle tonus and paresis of pelvic limb. All patients were treated with antiparkinsonian medication (levodopa 250 mg associated with carbidopa 25 mg) with following dosages: Dog 1 received a commercially available tablet, orally once a day for 30 days, while Dogs 2 and 3 had doses calculated by extrapolation allometric. For the Dog 2 it was prescribed 0.25 mg of levodopa and 0.025 mg of carbidopa daily for 30 days. Dog 3 was treated with 1 mg of levodopa and 0.1 mg of carbidopa patient day for the same period. Thirty days after starting the treatment, the 3 patients were evaluated again, and showed improvement of the motor signs, and the treatment was maintained. At the next return (30 days): Dog 1 showed significant improvement, however, Dog 2 started to present epileptic seizures and nystagmus that were treated with levetiracetam, while the Dog 3 not returned. As Dog 1 had a better prognosis, treatment was maintained for 1 year, with the frequency being changed from 24 h x 24 h to 48 h x 48 h after 30 days and 72x72 h after another 30 days. Unfortunately, Dog 2 had a worsening of epileptic condition and died, while Dog 3 died by road-kill. Discussion: The cases reported are uncommon, because not exist information about the use of antiparksonian to treatment of neurological damages occasioned by canine distemper. Although there are emerging therapies, such as the use of mesenchymal stem cells, that can reduce these sequels, the access is still restricted to a few professionals. Thus, the use of medications for demyelinating diseases, as antiparkinsonian, may be an alternative. In fact, the three reported patients showed recovery of the motor and sensorial damages observed, which corroborates with the possibility of a new treatment using antiparkinsonian or other drugs to demyelinating diseases.

Dirofilaria immitis is endemic in rural areas of the Brazilian Amazonas state capital, Manaus / Dirofilaria immitis é endêmica em áreas rurais da capital do estado do Amazonas, Manaus

The canine filarial parasite Dirofilaria immitis has not been reported in Brazil´s Amazonas state capital, Manaus, for over a century. Here, we report one imported and 27 autochthonous D. immitis infections from a microfilarial survey of 766 domestic dog blood samples collected between 2017 and 2021 in Manaus. An Overall prevalence estimate of 15.44% (23/149) was calculated from our two rural collection sites; a prevalence of 1.22% (4/328) was estimated at our periurban collection site, and an overall prevalence of 0.35% (1/289) was calculated from our two urban clinic collections. Our data suggest that in the urban areas of Manaus, where the parasites are very likely vectored by the same species of mosquito that historically vectored Wuchereria bancrofti (Culex quinquefasciatus), prevalence levels are very low and possibly maintained by an influx from rural areas where sylvatic reservoirs and/or more favorable vector transmission dynamics maintain high prevalences.(AU)

O parasita filarial canino, Dirofilaria immitis, causa doença zoonótica, mas não tem sido registrado em Manaus, capital do estado do Amazonas, há mais de um século. Neste trabalho, foi relatado uma infecção por D. immitis alóctone e 27 autóctones de um levantamento de microfilárias em 766 amostras de sangue em cães domésticos, coletados entre 2017 e 2021 em Manaus. A prevalência de 15,44% (23/149) foi estabelecida em áreas rurais, 1,22% (4/328) para áreas periurbanas e de 0,35% (1/289) para duas clínicas veterinárias localizadas na zona urbana da cidade. Estes dados sugerem, portanto, que nas áreas urbanas de Manaus, nas quais o parasita é provavelmente vetorizado pela mesma espécie de mosquito que, historicamente, transmitiu Wuchereria bancrofti (Culex quinquefasciatus). Também os níveis de prevalência são baixos e, possivelmente, mantidos por um influxo de áreas rurais onde reservatórios silvestres e/ou dinâmicas de transmissão vetorial mais favoráveis mantêm uma prevalência mais elevada.(AU)