Primary pulmonary chondrosarcoma in a bitch

Background: Primary lung neoplasms are uncommon in veterinary medicine, and when they develop, they are more frequently observed to be of epithelial origin. Although chondrosarcomas are the second most diagnosed type of neoplasm in dogs at skeletal sites, their development in extraskeletal tissues, including the spleen, aorta, heart, tongue, peritoneum, and lungs, corresponds to approximately only 1% of cases. Therefore, the occurrence of primary pulmonary chondrosarcoma is considered very rare in domestic animals. Considering the rare occurrence and scarcity of data regarding its development, the present report describes the clinical and pathological aspects of a case of primary pulmonary chondrosarcoma in a bitch. Case: A 8-year-old mixed-breed bitch, weighing 14.2 kg, was examined at one private veterinary clinic with the principal complaint of prolonged respiratory distress and resistance to exercise. Clinical evaluation revealed tachypnea with expiratory dyspnea due to intense pleural effusion, tachycardia, and diffusely pale mucous membranes. Thoracocentesis was performed with drainage of 1000 mL of modified transudate, and fluid cytology, blood count, and chest radiography were performed. Cytological analysis of the thoracic fluid did not identify neoplastic cells, the blood count showed intense regenerative anemia, and the radiograph showed an extensive area of consolidation in the left caudal lung lobe, compatible with neoplasia. The results of the tests performed, in addition to the evolution of the clinical picture and the impossibility of performing the indicated surgical intervention, culminated in the patient's unfavorable prognosis, followed by euthanasia, necropsy, and histopathological evaluation of the collected material. Necropsy revealed a white neoplastic formation with reddish areas and firm consistency that diffused into the parenchyma of the left caudal lung lobe with invasion of the rib cage, fracture of the fifth and sixth left ribs, diaphragmatic metastasis, intense hydrothorax, and moderate hydroperitoneum. Microscopically, in the histological sections of the lung and diaphragm, poorly differentiated mesenchymal cells with moderate anisocytosis and anisokaryosis and interspersed with them, moderately differentiated chondrocytes surrounded by chondroid matrix, moderate anisocytosis and anisokaryosis, and a low mitotic index culminated in the diagnosis of primary pulmonary mesenchymal chondrosarcoma. Discussion: Malignant epithelial neoplasms were suspected; however, the histopathological features observed were compatible with primary pulmonary chondrosarcoma. The characteristics of the fluid collected through thoracentesis led to its classification as a modified transudate, which is often associated with neoplastic and hemorrhagic processes; both alterations were present in this case. The diagnosis of primary pulmonary chondrosarcoma was established based on the histopathological findings since the cell type and distribution observed in the present case were compatible with the typical pattern observed in extraskeletal chondrosarcomas. An unfavorable prognosis is common in cases of primary or metastatic lung neoplasm since, in most cases, the condition is identified in the advanced stages of the disease, making therapeutic management challenging. Given the increase in the number of dog deaths due to neoplasms in recent years, this case report may contribute to a better understanding of the biological behavior of pulmonary chondrosarcoma and assist in the choice of treatment to be adopted when required.

Caudal vena cava thrombosis in cows

Background: Caudal vena cava thrombosis (CVCT) is a serious disease that affects cattle. Due to being commonly a fatal pathology, it causes economic losses for producers and national livestock. Thus, the present study describes the epidemiological, clinical, ultrasonographic imaging and pathological findings in 4 cattle with CVCT attended at the Veterinary Hospital (HV) of the Institute of Veterinary Medicine (IMV) of the Federal University of Pará (UFPA). Cases: The animals were crossbreds of the Gir x Holstein and Jersey x Holstein breeds, aged between 4 and 8 years old, raised in semi-extensive and intensive systems. The main clinical signs were pale mucous membranes, reluctance to move, markedly positive venous pulse, engorged jugular with positive stasis test, and serous to mucopurulent nasal exudation. The auscultation of the lung fields revealed tachypnea, silent areas, wheezing, and pleural friction, in addition to coughing, expiratory dyspnea, mouth breathing, and expiratory grunts. One animal had severe hemoptysis. The ultrasound examination performed on a bovine revealed a circular and dilated caudal vena cava in cross-section. Laboratory tests in 3 cattle revealed anemia, leukocytosis with neutrophil left shift, and increased liver enzymes. At necropsy, all cattle had thrombi in the hepatic segment of the caudal vena cava. In the lung, multiple abscesses and areas of parenchymal consolidation, crateriform areas, as well as thrombi in the arteries were observed. Pleural effusion and ascites were seen in all cattle. Clotted blood was seen in the trachea, bronchi, and on rumen contents of an animal. Histopathological alterations seen in the liver were centrilobular hepatocytes with frequent intensely eosinophilic cytoplasm, and pyknotic, karyorrhexic, or absent nuclei and cell borders barely distinguishable. In the lung were nodular and random formations, with a thick wall of mature connective tissue and a central area full of cellular debris, necrotic cells, and intact and degenerated neutrophils (abscesses). Discussion: The set of diagnostic tools that include epidemiology, clinical signs and clinical examinations, ultrasound, necropsy, and histopathology were efficient in the diagnosis of CVCT. The possible causes that led the animals to develop CVCT were diffuse septic pododermatitis in the medial nail of the right pelvic limb associated with traumatic reticuloabomasitis and liver abscesses. In 1 cow, it was not possible to establish the probable cause of CVCT, but for the other cattle in the present study, the probable causes are in agreement with studies that have shown that this disease can occur as a sequel to several septic conditions such as jugular phlebitis, mastitis, hoof rot, enteritis, pneumonia, traumatic reticulopericarditis, acidosis and rumen laminitis, as well as omphalophlebitis in calves. The tachypnea, serous to purulent nasal exudation, pulmonary wheezing, pleural friction, coughing, and expiratory dyspnea, usually with open mouth breathing and expiratory grunts evidenced in the animals of this study, occurred as a result of embolic abscess pneumonia. The presence of multiple lung abscesses, areas of parenchymal consolidation, crateriform foci, and thrombi in the pulmonary arteries and chronic suppurative pneumonia, found at necropsy of the animals in the present study, are related to the development of a thrombus in the caudal vena cava that detaches and embolizes and lodges in the pulmonary arteries. The histopathological findings in 1 cow are compatible with lesions found at necropsy and draw attention to embolic pneumonia and liver lesions, which, are related to thrombi in pulmonary arteries and abscesses formed from CVCT, as well as venous stasis exerted in the return circulation.

ISOLATION AND AMPLIFICATION OF Anaplasma marginale IN CHICKEN EMBRYO FIBROBLAST CELL CULTURE / ISOLATION AND AMPLIFICATION OF Anaplasma marginale IN CHICKEN EMBRYO FIBROBLAST CELL CULTURE

Anaplasma marginale is an important agent for animal livestock, its presence in herds of cattle, sheep and goats leads to losses for Brazilian agribusiness. The present study aimed to describe an isolation technique for A. marginale, using chicken embryo fibroblast (CEF) cell culture. For this, blood and tick samples were collected from 5 calves, between 2 and 3 months of age, which due to anemia, jaundiced mucous membranes and prostration, were considered supposedly infected with A.marginale. For the diagnosis, DNA extraction and PCR was performed from the blood and tick samples collected. All the tick and blood samples were positive in the PCR test. Additionally, ticks were crushed with the aid of a blender for inoculation in CEF cell culture. After inoculation, the cultures were kept at 37ºC and 5% CO2 for 15 days. The cell supernatant of cell cultures were again analyzed by PCR and by the technique Wrighte stain to confirm A. marginale isolation. Cell cultures were positive in PCR and the presence of the agent was demonstrated by Wrighte stain. Therefore, using CEF cell culture was possible to isolate and amplify the A. marginale in a concentration of 1.3 x 107.2 bodies per ml. The CEF cells are undemanding, easy to maintain and they are an option for isolation and production of A. marginale in the laboratory condition.

Anaplasma marginale (A. marginale) is a worldwide pathogen that infects a variety ofruminants, but mostly cattle. The present study aimed to describe an isolation technique for A. marginale, using chicken embryo Þ broblast (CEF) cell culture. Blood and tick samples were collected from 5 calves from 2 to 3 months old, which were considered to be infected with A.marginale due to anemia, jaundiced mucous membranes, and prostration. DNA extractionand PCR were performed for diagnosis using blood and tick samples. All tick and blood samples tested positive in PCR. Additionally,ticks were crushed with the aid of a blender for inoculation in CEF cell culture. After inoculation, the cultures were kept at 37ºC and 5%CO2 for 15 days. The cell supernatant of cell cultures was again analyzed using PCR and Wright stain method to conÞ rm A. marginaleisolation. Cell cultures tested positive in PCR, and the presence of the agent was demonstrated by Wright stain. Therefore, by using CEFcell culture it was possible to isolate and amplify the A. marginale in a concentration of 1.3x 107.2 bodies per mL. The CEF cells are undemanding and easy to preserve; they are anoption for isolation and production of A. marginale under laboratory conditions.

Study of the integument that covering back and stinger of the freshwater stingray Potamotrygon rex (Chondricthyes, Potamotrygonidae) / Estudo do tegumento que reveste o dorso e ferrão da arraia de água doce Potamotrygon rex (Chondricthyes, Potamotrygonidae)

The objective of this study was to describe the histology and histochemistry of the integument covering the back and stinger of the freshwater stingray Potamotrygon rex, endemic to the Middle Upper Tocantins River. The species has a dark back and yellowish circular spots that extend to the tail, which has one to two stings located in the median portion of the tail. Through histological study it was observed that the epithelia of the back and stinger are composed of non-keratinized stratified pavement epithelial tissue, and are organized in three layers: basal, intermediate and superficial. The differences between the tissues are related to the cell types that compose them. The back is organized with epithelial cells, mucus cells, granulocyte cells and chromatophores. The mucus cells are distributed in different layers along the animal's back, influencing the thickness of the tissue. The tissue that covers the stinger is composed of epithelial cells, chromatophores and specialized cells in protein synthesis. In the histochemistry, the stinger epithelial cells were stained with Bromophenol Blue, especially those of the intermediate layer, which were called specialized cells. In the back the epithelial cells were stained with Bromophenol Blue, Alcian Blue and PAS, and the mucous cells with PAS. In both tissues the presence of protein reserves was detected, areas so called because they are stained strongly with Bromophenol Blue. The results show that the stinger presents activity directed to the production of proteins, and that the back is organized to produce different components, which constitute the cuticle that covers the animal's body.

O objetivo deste estudo foi descrever a histologia e histoquímica do tegumento que reveste o dorso e o ferrão da arraia de água doce Potamotrygon rex, endêmica do Médio Alto Tocantins. A espécie possui o dorso escuro e manchas circulares amareladas que se estendem até a cauda, que possui de um a dois ferrões localizados na porção mediana da cauda. Através do estudo histológico observou-se que os epitélios do dorso e do ferrão são compostos por tecido epitelial pavimentoso estratificado não queratinizado, e estão organizados em três camadas: basal, intermediária e superficial. As diferenças entre os tecidos estão relacionadas aos tipos de células que os compõem. O dorso é organizado com células epiteliais, células mucosas, células de granulócitos e cromatóforos. As células mucosas estão distribuídas em diferentes camadas ao longo do dorso do animal, influenciando na espessura do tecido. O tecido que reveste o ferrão é composto por células epiteliais, cromatóforos e células proteicas. Na histoquímica, as células epiteliais do ferrão foram coradas com Azul de Bromofenol, principalmente as da camada intermediária, que foram denominadas células proteicas. No dorso as células epiteliais foram coradas com Azul de Bromofenol, Azul Alcian e PAS, e as células mucosas com PAS. Em ambos os tecidos também foi detectada a presença de reservatórios de proteínas, áreas assim denominadas por estarem fortemente coradas com Azul de Bromofenol. Os resultados mostram que o ferrão apresenta atividade direcionada à produção de proteínas, e que o dorso se organiza para produzir diferentes componentes que constituem a cutícula que reveste o corpo do animal.

Bilateral testicular tumors in a non-cryptorchid dog: coexistence of Sertoli cell and interstitial endocrine cell tumors

Background: Testicular neoplasms in dogs are more frequent than in other animal species, representing the most common tumors in elderly subjects after skin neoplasms. In cryptorchid subjects, the risk of neoplastic degeneration is high. The cytological examination is essential to differentiate the type of neoplasia and to determinate the best diagnostic approach. Aim of this report was to describe clinical and histopathological features of a dog with coexistence of Sertoli cell and interstitial endocrine cell tumors in a non-cryptorchid dog. Case: A 9-year-old non-neutered male dog, German Spitz breed, was presented to the veterinary clinic. On clinical examination, the dog had a body condition (BCS 6/9), pink mucous membranes, capillary refill time (CRT) < 2 sec, lymph nodes of normal size, afebrile, normal heart and respiratory rate. The abdomen was depressible to palpation, without pain, the skin appeared hyperpigmented, with generalized presence of comedones, pendular foreskin and absence of hair at the abdominal level, in the ventral portion of the trunk and neck, scant hair also at the level of the inner thighs and in perianal. At ultrasounds examinations, the right testicle presented a hypoechoic circular focal lesion, in the caudal pole, of 0.7 cm in diameter, well defined, echogenicity and a remnant of normal echostructure, smooth and regular margins; the left testicle showed an increase in size, irregular margins, with a heterogeneous echo structure, given by hypoechoic areas, referred to cysts, hemorrhagic or necrotic areas. The hemogram reported slightly microcytic and normochromic regenerative anemia. The leukogram showed monocytosis. The absence of the typical stress leukogram characterized by neutrophilia, lymphopenia and eosinopenia, and the reduction of ALP allows to rule out Cushing's disease. In order to rule out hypothyroidism due to the inhibitory effect of estrogens on the release of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) the concentration of total thyroxine was analyzed, reporting normal values excluding hypothyroidism. Blood oestradiol 17-ß (E2) concentration was increased, with a normal testosterone (T) concentration of 0.30 ng/mL. Given the suspicion of the presence of testicular tumors, castration was performed by the surgical excision of both gonads, after ruling out the presence of abdominal or pulmonary metastases by chest and abdominal radiography. Discussion: The clinical, histopathological findings supported the diagnosis of testicular tumors. According to the pathological report, both gonads presented parenchymal nodular neoplastic nodular areas referring to the Sertoli sustentacular cells in the right testicle, to the proliferation of Leydig interstitial cells in the left one. The nodule in the left testicle was unencapsulated and showed a solid-diffuse pattern. Neoplastic cells were irregular polygonal, medium to large in size with moderate nucleus/cytoplasm ratio and moderate anisocytosis. In the right testicle, the nodule was heterogeneous in consistency and a diffuse pattern was present. Neoplastic cells were polygonal morphology, had a moderate nucleus/cytoplasm ratio and were organized tubules lined and obliterated the extensive cell growth. Bilateral orchiectomy allowed to improve the clinical signs, and 3 months after surgery, the animal was in good health, with evident improvement skin lesions. The E2 analysis was repeated, detecting normal values, demonstrating that testicular neoplasm in this patient were involved in E2 production; also T concentration decreased considerably from 0.30 to < 0.07 values.

Primary non-metastatic omental myofibrosarcoma in a horse / Miofibrossarcoma omental primário não metastático em um cavalo

Myofibrosarcoma in horses is a rare malignant tumor composed predominantly by myofibroblasts. A 15-year-old horse was referred to the Veterinary Hospital of the Federal University of Parana for evaluation of colic signs. Initial physical examination showed icteric mucous membrane and laboratory analysis found anemia, increased serum activity of ALT, GGT, ALP, and bilirubin. In the exploratory laparotomy a highly vascularized abdominal mass in the left hypochondrium region of approximately 50cm x 45cm x 30cm, adhered to the surrounding structures was observed. Due to the size and adhesions to the omentum, the mass was considered surgically unresectable, and euthanasia was performed followed by necropsy. The immunohistochemical and morphological results indicate the diagnosis of myofibrosarcoma since the neoplastic cells immunoexpressed Vimentin, HHF35 and S100. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first equine case of omental myofibrosarcoma described in the literature.

O miofibrossarcoma em cavalos é um raro tumor maligno, composto predominantemente por miofibroblastos. Um equino, de 15 anos de idade, foi encaminhado ao Hospital Veterinário da Universidade Federal do Paraná, para avaliação de sinais de cólica. O exame clínico inicial apresentou mucosas ictéricas e, nos exames laboratoriais, revelou anemia e aumento sérico de ALT, GGT, ALP e bilirrubina. Na laparotomia exploratória, observou-se massa abdominal vascularizada de aproximadamente 50cm x 45cm x 30cm na região do hipocôndrio esquerdo e aderida às estruturas circunvizinhas. Devido ao tamanho e às aderências ao omento, a massa foi considerada irressecável cirurgicamente, portanto foi realizada a eutanásia e a necropsia. Os resultados imuno-histoquímicos e morfológicos indicam o diagnóstico de miofibrossarcoma, visto que as células neoplásicas imunoexpressaram Vimentin, HHF35 e S100. Portanto, esse é o primeiro caso em equinos de miofibrossarcoma omental descrito na literatura.

Hemoperitoneum in a cow with lumbar muscle hemangiosarcoma

Background: Hemangiosarcoma is a malignant neoplasm of endothelial cells with an infiltrative growth pattern. Hemangiosarcomas are frequently reported in canines and rare in felines, sheep, goats, swine, horses and cattle. Few cases of hemangiosarcoma were reported in cattle. In the present report, we describe the clinicopathological findings of a bovine muscle hemangiosarcoma. Case: A 6-year-old, Girolando cow from the Dairy Cattle Sector of the Federal Rural University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRRJ), Seropédica, presented sternal decubitus. Clinical signs were markedly pale mucous membranes, moderate dehydration, respiratory distress, and increased heart rate. The hematological examination revealed intense regenerative anemia. Due to the worsening of the clinical condition, the cow was submitted to euthanasia. The necropsy and collection of various fragments of organs were performed, which were sent to the "Setor de Anatomia Patológica" (SAP-UFRRJ). Tissues were fixed in 10 % buffered formalin, routinely processed for histology and stained with Hematoxylin and Eosin (HE). The external mucous membranes were markedly pale. Multifocal areas of 1.5 x 1.0 cm, irregular and dark red were observed dissecting the quadratus lumborum muscle (hemangiosarcoma) fibers. These neoplasms were associated with an extensive cruoric clot adhered to the muscle fibers. The extensive, red, friable mass measured approximately 76 x 55 x 20 cm on the serous surfaces of the organs of the peritoneal cavity (hemoperitoneum). The spleen was moderately reduced. The bone marrow was markedly pale. Histologically, it was observed that there was an extensive proliferation of endothelial cells in the quadratus lumbar muscle mass dissecting the epimysium and perimysium. Endothelial cells had moderate pleomorphism, organized in vascular channels and forming multifocally solid areas with a significant amount of eosinophilic fibrillar material (fibrin). Sections of muscle neoplasm were subjected to immunohistochemistry with anti-von Willebrand factor primary antibody, which showed a multifocal moderate cytoplasmic immunolabeling of neoplastic endothelial cells. Discussion: There are few reports of striated muscle hemangiosarcoma in cattle. Muscular hemangiosarcomas were reported in a 4-month-old calf in the left cervical trapezius muscle and a 6-year-old Holstein cow with left pelvic limb mass lateral and distal to the knee. Some reports presented hemangiosarcoma in the iliopsoas muscle, left cervical trapezius muscle, pelvic limb muscles and right cervical muscle of the bovine. In the presented report, hemoperitoneum occurred as a result of hemorrhages from muscle hemangiosarcoma. Other studies have demonstrated cavity hemorrhages in joint, pelvic, pleural and cranial cavities associated with hemangiosarcoma. Hemangiosarcoma with regenerative anemia must be distinguished from other diseases that cause anemia. The main differential diagnoses of bovine with anemia are vena cava syndrome, coumarin derivatives poisoning, acute poisoning by Pteridium spp., tick fever, anaplasmosis, babesiosis and trypanosomiasis. Hemangiosarcoma should be differentiated from other lesions as hemangioma, vascular tumor of lymphatic endothelium and perivascular wall tumors. Cases with poorly differentiated morphology should be submitted for immunohistochemistry. In the present hemangiosarcoma case, we have used the von Willebrand factor for immunohistochemistry diagnosis. Expression of angiogenic growth factors such as CD31, vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) and angiopoietin-1 (Ang-1) have also been used in the diagnosis of vascular proliferation lesions. Hemangiosarcoma in cattle should be included mainly in the differential diagnosis of diseases that cause acute anemia in cattle.

Acute erythroid leukemia in a cat infected with feline leukemia virus

Background: Erythroid leukemia is a myeloproliferative hematopoietic disorder considered acute when there is a predominance of blasts in the bone marrow. It is frequently reported in cats infected with feline leukemia virus, but it is unclear whether this virus is involved in the oncogenesis. The clinical signs in cats are anorexia, apathy, weight loss, with evolution from 2 weeks to 2 months, pale mucous membranes, hemorrhages, ascites, salivation, and dyspnea due to pleural effusion. This affection responds little to chemotherapy with an unfavorable prognosis. The aim of this study is to report a case of a feline leukemia virus infected cat with the onset of severe hemolytic anemia. Case: A 8-year-old male mixed breed cat was attended with a history of anorexia, oligodipsia, apathy, progressive weight loss, and yellowish color of urine for 7 days. Laboratorial exams showed anemia (with metarubricytes, acanthocytes and ghost cells), leukocytosis and FeLV reagent test. The cat underwent treatment with methylprednisolone acetate and supportive care. One day later, the animal returned with icteric mucous membranes, and emesis. A blood count was performed that found worsening anemia, increased leukocytosis, and lymphocytosis. Abdominal ultrasound showed cholangiohepatitis and lymphadenomegaly in mesenteric lymph nodes. Treatment was started with ondansetron, metronidazole, and amoxicilin with potassium clavulanate. The cat returned after 3 days and laboratorial exams revealed worsening of blood parameters, so blood transfusion was performed. After 2 days, the patient started with dyspnea and hypothermia, that evolved to cardiorespiratory arrest. The body was sent to necropsy and histopathology, where blast cells and rubricytes were found in blood vessels of various organs. The bone marrow was markedly cellular with complete disappearance of adipose tissue. Most of the cells were blasts with abundant and eosinophilic cytoplasm, central nucleus with finely dotted chromatin and a large nucleolus. There were rubricytes, which made possible to confirm acute erythroid leukemia as a morphological diagnosis. Discussion: The clinical signs observed in acute erythroid leukemia are lethargy, inappetence, fever, splenomegaly, mild lymphadenomegaly, associated with leukocytosis, severe anemia, and thrombocytopenia. The reported animal presented signs similar to those described in the literature except that there was no change in platelet counts. The diagnosis of leukemia was reached after histopathology, and it is made when is observed more than 30% of myeloblasts and monoblasts together or when the blast cells count including rubriblasts is greater than 30%. Although chemotherapy, the prognosis is usually poor. It is essential to perform the myelogram for the diagnosis of myeloid leukemias in vivo. In this report, we only achieve final diagnosis after the cat's death, due to the aggressive behavior of the disease. Clinicians must be aware of the likely development of acute erythroid leukemia whenever a feline leukemia virus infected cat presents hemolytic anemia to get an early diagnosis, since this is an extremely aggressive disease, to propose prompt chemotherapy and give the patient a longer survival period.

Babesiose: um ponto de vista diagnóstico: relato de caso / Babesiosis: a diagnostic point of view - case report

A babesiose canina é uma doença transmitida pela picada de carrapatos, como o Rhipicephalus sanguineus, vetor de Babesia vogeli, um hemoprotozoário de extrema importância na Medicina Veterinária. Esse protozoário parasita os eritrócitos, levando a uma hemólise. O animal infectado pode apresentar febre, letargia, anorexia, anemia, mucosas pálidas ou ictéricas, hematúria e hepatoesplenomegalia. O diagnóstico presuntivo da babesiose canina pode se basear em histórico, anamnese ou exame físico, porém a confirmação é obtida por meio do exame parasitológico. Durante o atendimento, um cão, macho, cinco anos, boxer, apresentou apatia, hiporexia, hematúria, hipertermia. Para confirmação de diagnóstico foram solicitados os exames complementares: hemograma, alanina aminotransferase e creatinina. A única alteração encontrada foi diminuição de plaquetas, porém no esfregaço sanguíneo foram observadas estruturas de Babesia sp. livres e parasitando hemácias.(AU)

Canine babesiosis is a disease transmitted through tick bites, such as Rhipicephalus sanguineus, vector of Babesia vogeli, a hemoprotozoan of extreme importance in Veterinary Medicine. This protozoan parasites erythrocytes leading to hemolysis. The infected animal may have fever, lethargy, anorexia, anemia, pale or jaundiced mucous membranes, hematuria and hepatosplenomegaly. The presumptive diagnosis of babesiosis can be based on history, anamnesis or physical examination, but the confirmation is obtained through parasitological examination. During the service, a male dog, five years old, boxer, presented apathy, hyporexia, hematuria, hyperthermia. To confirm the diagnosis, a complete blood count, alanine aminotransferase and creatinine were requested. The only alteration found was a decrease in platelets, however, in the blood smear, Babesia sp. were detected free and parasitizing red blood cells.(AU)

Atypical chronic copper poisoning in a sheep secondary to copper wire ingestion: case report / Intoxicação crônica por cobre atípica em ovino pelo consumo de fios de cobre: relato de caso

A 14-month-old female Texel sheep that came from a herd made up of 19 animals showed haemoglobinuria, apathy, and anorexia, and died two days after the start of the clinical signals. The sheep remained in a natural grassland, where trailers were repaired, and multiple copper wires were deposited on the pasture. The animal had tachycardia, tachypnoea, pale mucous membranes, groaning pain on abdominal palpation, circling, head pressing, intensely hemolyzed plasma, and intense azotaemia. The necropsy showed focally extensive oedema in the inguinal and medial region of pelvic limbs, kidneys dark brown, and liver diffusely yellow with an evident moderate diffuse lobular pattern. The abomasum had a considerable amount of enameled material of thickness, firm to the cut, with 1-5 mm (copper wires). Histopathological examination showed marked diffuse tubular and glomerular coagulative necrosis in the kidneys, in addition to neutrophils, macrophages, lymphocytes, and plasma cells with moderate multifocal nephritis. The liver showed centrilobular necrosis, moderate hepatocellular edema, multifocal cholestasis, and in the lungs and brain mild to moderate diffuse edema. Copper content in the frozen liver (in natura) reached 1,598 mg/kg. Copper mesh ingestion led to sheep poisoning, which in this case was considered an atypical form of chronic primary copper poisoning.

Um ovino Texel de 14 meses de idade, que fazia parte de um rebanho de 19 animais, apresentou hemoglobinúria, apatia, anorexia e morreu dois dias após o início dos sinais clínicos. Os ovinos permaneciam em campo nativo, onde eram realizados consertos de trailers, e múltiplos fios de cobre ficavam depositados na pastagem. O animal apresentou taquicardia, taquipneia, mucosas pálidas, gemido de dor à palpação abdominal, além de andar em círculo, e pressão da cabeça contra obstáculos, plasma intensamente hemolisado e azotemia intensa. Na necropsia, havia edema na região inguinal e medial de membros pélvicos focalmente extenso, rins enegrecidos, e o fígado estava difusamente amarelado, com padrão lobular evidente difuso moderado. No abomaso, havia grande quantidade de material esmaltado, com 1-5mm de espessura, firme, que rangia ao ser cortado (fios de cobre). No exame histopatológico nos rins, havia necrose tubular e glomerular hemoglobinúrica difusa acentuada, além de nefrite de neutrófilios, macrófagos, linfócitos e plasmócitos multifocal moderada. No fígado, havia necrose centrolobular, tumefação hepatocelular e colestase multifocais moderadas; nos pulmões e no cérebro, edema difuso discreto a moderado. A dosagem de Cu no fígado revelou a presença de 1598mg/kg. A ingestão de malhas de cobre levou à intoxicação do ovino que, nesse caso, foi considerada uma forma atípica de intoxicação primária crônica por cobre.

Melanomas em cães no Sertão do Nordeste do Brasil - epidemiologia, fatores de risco e achados clinicopatológicos / Melanoma in dogs in the backlands of Northeastern Brazil - epidemiology, risk factors and clinicopathological findings

Background: Melanoma is a malignant neoplasm that arises from melanocytes and malanoblasts. It is also more frequently reported in dogs than in other species. They may arise from melanocytes in the skin, on the surfaces of the mucous membranes, and eyes. The aim of this study was to describe the epidemiological aspects, risk factors and clinicopathological findings of melanoma in dogs in the backlands, northeastern Brazil. Materials, Methods & Results: A retrospective study was carried out in all biopsy samples and necropsy examinations of dogs, from January 2003 to December 2021, at the Animal Pathology Laboratory of the Federal University of Campina Grande, Patos, Paraiba, northeastern Brazil. Epidemiological data, clinical signs, and gross lesions were reviewed from the diagnostic laboratory reports. Samples of the skin, lymph nodes, central nervous system and organs of the thoracic and abdominal cavities were fixed in 10% buffered formalin, processed routinely for histopathology, embedded in paraffin wax, cut into 4 µm sections, and stained with hematoxylin and eosin (HE). Histological sections were also submitted to immunohistochemistry with the primary antibody anti-Melan A. Of the 4717 records found, 1158 (24.5%) were diagnosed with neoplasms, of which 48 (4.14%) cases were of melanoma. Of this total, 28 (58.3%) dogs were elderly, 19 (39.6%) were adults, and 1 (2.1%) was young. Mixed breed animals were the most affected (42.6%), followed by the pinscher breed (19.1%). According to the anatomical region, the most affected site was the skin (38/53=71.7%), followed by the oral cavity (12/53=22.65%) and the eyes (3/53=5.7%). Grossly, the skin lesions were characterized by exophytic and usually blackened, sometimes irregular and firm, nodules. At cut, they had a smooth, compact and blackened surface. Lesions in the oral cavity were characterized by blackened, irregular and infiltrating nodules or masses. The ocular lesions were always unilateral and were characterized by an enlarged and diffusely blackened eyeball, with areas of ulceration and subversion of tissue architecture. In 5 animals there was more than one anatomical site affected, totaling 53 lesions. In 9 (17%) cases, metastases were identified, 8 in regional lymph nodes and 1 in the lung. Histopathology showed a densely non-encapsulated, poorly delimited, expansive and infiltrative neoplasm, composed of neoplastic cells arranged in islands or nests and supported by fibrovascular stroma, containing a variable amount of brownish pigment (melanin). Immunohistochemistry showed strong immunostaining of the neoplastic cells in brown by the anti-Melan A antibody. Discussion: The diagnosis of melanoma was established based on epidemiological, clinical, anatomopathological, and immunohistochemical findings. Gender is not a predisposing factor, and although there was no statistically significant relationship, males were more affected. Senescence is a conditioning risk factor. Elderly animals were more affected (P < 0.0001) than adult ones, with OR = 4.38; and young ones (P = 0.0051), with OR = 12.65. Some breeds, especially those with marked skin pigmentation, were more affected, however the most affected ones in this survey were pinscher and poodle. Cutaneous melanoma accounted for almost 72% of cases, contesting recent studies where oral cavity melanoma was more frequent. Therefore, it is believed that the climatic conditions of the backlands sub-region, in northeastern Brazil, associated with the individual characteristics of the dogs, are involved in the development of these neoplasms, since the climate is predominantly dry, with high temperatures throughout the year, with maximums that can reach 40ºC, favoring the exposure to high incidence of ultraviolet radiation.

Isolation and amplification of Anaplasma marginale in chicken embryo fibroblast cell culture / Isolamento e amplificação de Anaplasma marginale em cultivos celulares de fibroblastos de embriões de galinhas

Anaplasma marginale (A. marginale) is a worldwide pathogen that infects a variety of ruminants, but mostly cattle. The present study aimed to describe an isolation technique for A. marginale, using chicken embryo Þ broblast (CEF) cell culture. Blood and tick samples were collected from 5 calves from 2 to 3 months old, which were considered to be infected with A.marginale due to anemia, jaundiced mucous membranes, and prostration. DNA extraction and PCR were performed for diagnosis using blood and tick samples. All tick and blood samples tested positive in PCR. Additionally, ticks were crushed with the aid of a blender for inoculation in CEF cell culture. After inoculation, the cultures were kept at 37ºC and 5% CO2 for 15 days. The cell supernatant of cell cultures was again analyzed using PCR and Wright stain method to conÞ rm A. marginale isolation. Cell cultures tested positive in PCR, and the presence of the agent was demonstrated by Wright stain. Therefore, by using CEF cell culture it was possible to isolate and amplify the A. marginale in a concentration of 1.3 x 107.2 bodies per mL. The CEF cells are undemanding and easy to preserve; they are an option for isolation and production of A. marginale under laboratory conditions.(AU)

Anaplasma marginale (A. marginale) é um patógeno mundial que infecta uma variedade de ruminantes, mas principalmente bovinos. O presente estudo teve como objetivo descrever uma técnica de isolamento para A. marginale, utilizando cultivo celular de Þ broblastos de embriões (CFE) de galinhas. Para isso, foram coletadas amostras de sangue e de carrapatos de 5 bezerros, entre 2 e 3 meses de idade, os quais, devido a anemia, icterícia de mucosas e prostração, foram considerados supostamente infectados com A. marginale. Ethics Approval This study was approved by Credenciamento Institucional para Atividades com Animais em Ensino ou Pesquisa (CIAEP: 02.0420.2021). Consent to participate Not applicable Consent to publish Not applicable Data availability Not applicable Para o diagnóstico, realizaram-se extração de DNA e posterior PCR a partir das amostras de sangue e de carrapatos coletados. Todos os carrapatos e amostras de sangue foram positivas para o teste de PCR. Além disso, os carrapatos foram triturados com o auxílio de um liquidiÞ cador para inoculação em CFE. Após a inoculação, as culturas foram mantidas a 37ºC e a 5% de CO2 durante 15 dias. O sobrenadante celular das culturas foi novamente analisado por PCR e pela técnica de coloração de Wright para conÞ rmar o isolamento de Anaplasma marginale. As culturas celulares foram po sitivas por PCR, e a presença do agente foi comprovada por meio da coloração de Wright. Portanto, utilizando CFE, foi possível isolar e ampliÞ car o A. marginale em uma concentração de 1,3x107,2 bactérias por ml. As células da CEF são pouco exigentes, de fácil manutenção e uma boa opção para isolamento e produção de A. marginale em condição laboratorial.(AU)

Myelodysplastic syndrome progression to acute myeloid leukemia in a cat FeLV seroreactive

Background: Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a group of non-lymphoid hematological tumors characterized by aberrant proliferation and/or decreased apoptosis of a clone of non-mature cells, resulting in the accumulation of immature blast cells in the bone marrow and peripheral blood. It is considered rare, as it represents 10% of neoplasms of hematopoietic origin. However, it is known that felines seroreactive for FIV and FeLV are more predisposed and reports of this type of leukemia in cats in the literature are scarce. Thus, the objective of this study was to evaluate the blood and bone marrow of a cat seroreactive for FeLV that presented with myelodysplastic syndrome that progressed to acute myeloid leukemia. Case: A 6-year-old male mixed-breed cat, neutered, seroreactive for FeLV, showed apathy, weight loss, and pale mucous membranes. Initial peripheral blood smear evaluation revealed hypochromic normocytic anemia, leukopenia, neutropenia, lymphopenia, and thrombocytosis with many macropackets and giant platelets. Based on this blood picture, a long-spectrum antimicrobial therapy with amoxicillin and clavulanate [Clavulin® BD - 25 mg/kg, every 12 h] was started. Granulocyte colony stimulating factor used filgrastim (rHu G-CSF) [Fiprina® - 5 µg/kg, SC, every 48 h] and appetite stimulant mirtazapine [Mirtz® - 2 mg/cat, orally, every 48 h] were used to correct leukopenia and nutritional status, respectively. Follow-up blood smear evaluation on the 30th day showed persistence of the hematological changes noticed earlier. A bone marrow puncture was performed, and immunosuppressive therapy with prednisolone [Predsim® - 4 mg/kg, orally, every 24 h] was initiated. The aspirated material showed increased cellularity for age, decreased myeloid:erythroid ratio, and 39.8% of blasts of myeloid origin. An average of 17.7 megakaryocytes were observed per field (10x magnification). Bone marrow cytological evaluation suggested acute myeloid leukemia with dysmegakaryocytopoiesis. After the diagnosis, the examinations were repeated monthly, and there was still intense leukopenia. However, in view of the stable clinical status and leukopenia with neutropenia, treatment for leukemia was not instituted and only supportive treatment was administered when necessary. Eight months after the diagnosis, clinical status had worsened, and unlike the earlier hemograms, global leukocyte count had increased with predominant lymphocytosis (95% of the total leukocytes) with atypical lymphocytes. The cat died a few days later. Discussion: Bone marrow evaluation is indicated when peripheral blood cell abnormalities are present and cannot be explained in the context of the clinical history. In the present report, the bone marrow aspirate was hypercellular (cellularity above 75%); however, intense leukopenia was observed in the peripheral blood. In myelodysplastic syndromes, it is common for the bone marrow to be normal to hypercellular, which occurs when there is a greater production of myeloid or erythroid cell lines in response to the loss, destruction, or consumption of cells. Despite this, cytopenias may be present in the peripheral blood, since the defective cells undergo apoptosis and die before being released into the circulation, characterizing inefficient hematopoiesis. The diagnosis of acute leukemia comprises a variety of hematopoietic neoplasms that are complex and unique. Each acute leukemia subtype has defining characteristics that affect the prognosis and treatment of each animal.

Primary erythrocytosis in a bitch - clinical and laboratorial aspects

Background: Primary erythrocytosis is a rare myeloproliferative disorder in dogs and cats characterized by an autonomous proliferation of erythroid precursors in the bone marrow, with low to normal serum erythropoietin concentration, resulting in elevated red blood cell count, hematocrit and hemoglobin concentration. Clinical signs are associated with increased blood volume and viscosity, and may include erythema, hyperemic mucous membranes and neurological signs such as seizures and ataxia. In veterinary medicine, the diagnosis should be made by exclusion of secondary or relative causes, after complementary exams. This report aims to describe a case of primary erythrocytosis in a bitch. Case: A 4-year-old mixed-breed bitch was referred to the Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital from UFRGS with 3 convulsive episodes related by the owner. A previous abdominal ultrasonography revealed splenomegaly and the electrocardiogram showed no abnormalities. No alterations were observed at the physical examination. The laboratorial blood tests demonstrated a persistent erythrocytosis, with high hematocrit, hemoglobin and red blood cells count, thrombocytopenia and neutropenia, and total plasmatic protein within the reference interval. The bone marrow cytology revealed reduced cellularity, normal myeloid:erythroid ratio, erythroid hyperplasia, mild myeloid hyperplasia and moderate myelofibrosis. The serum erythropoietin measurement was within the reference range, and the blood gas analysis detected a slight decrease in partial oxygen pressure. Therefore, no evidence of secondary conditions was observed and the diagnosis of primary erythrocytosis could be made. Discussion: Since there is no definitive method, the diagnosis of primary erythrocytosis could be based on the exclusion of all secondary and relative causes of erythrocytosis. The absence of clinical signs of dehydration and high serum albumin levels were findings that conduced for the exclusion of the relative form of the disturbance. The echocardiography and the abdominal ultrasonography ruled out any cardiopulmonary condition or kidney neoplasm, the most common causes of absolute secondary erythrocytosis. The persistently high hematocrit levels and red blood cell counts are significant for the suspicion of primary erythrocytosis, although thrombocytopenia and neutropenia are not commonly reported. The clinical signs of seizure were correlated with increased blood viscosity and reduced blood flow at the central nervous system. The blood gas analysis discarded the occurrence of systemic hypoxia, and the normal levels of erythropoietin gives higher evidence of the occurrence of an autonomous proliferation of the erythroid precursors within the bone marrow. The bone marrow cytology confirmed erythroid hyperplasia and the reduced cellularity that could be attributed to myelofibrosis. Myelofibrosis was described in humans with polycythemia vera, but there are no reports in veterinary, and this occurrence must be elucidated. An identical mutation in the JAK2 gene was observed in humans with polycythemia vera and dogs with primary erythrocytosis, and occurs in more than 50% of humans with myelofibrosis. Further investigations are necessary for veterinary medicine. In conclusion, the systematic approach of all organic systems and the assessment of complementary exams are necessary for the diagnostic of primary erythrocytosis in dogs. This condition should be considered in the differential diagnosis of any erythrocytosis, considering the guarded prognosis of this hematologic disorder.

Tumor venéreo transmissível canino em laringe com metástase pulmonar / Canine transmissible venereal tumor in the larynx with pulmonary metastasis

Background: Canine transmissible venereal tumor (TVT) is one of the most common canine neoplasms in Brazil. Lesions develop mainly in the genital tissue and less frequently in other areas, in the extragenital form. Metastasis is rare, and the disease progression depends on the patient’s immune status. The treatment of choice is chemotherapy with vincristine sulfate, considered an effective and safe modality. The present work describes the first case of extragenital TVT in the larynx with pulmonary metastasis at the time of diagnosis. Case: An approximately 4-month-old mixed-breed bitch was attended manifesting acute clinical respiratory signs. The patient had been rescued from the street 2 months beforehand. Physical examination revealed pale mucous membranes and crackling pulmonary auscultation. Thoracic radiography was performed in 3 projections, showing multiple nodules in the lung parenchyma, followed by cytopathological examination using fine needle puncture guided by thoracic ultrasound, confirming the diagnosis of TVT. Considering the cytological finding and the absence of primary tumor lesions in the genital, oral, cutaneous or nasal regions, endoscopy was performed in order to locate a possible primary focus. The exam revealed a small erythematous tumor with smooth and regular surface, measuring approximately 2.5 cm, located in the larynx, between the arytenoid cartilages. Chemotherapy was performed with vincristine sulfate with radiographic follow-up throughout the treatment. Full remission of the pulmonary and laryngeal nodules was achieved at the end of the protocol. The animal remained in complete remission for a period of 2 years. Discussion: TVT is more frequently observed in animals of active reproductive age, and rarely in animals under 1 year of age, as in the case...

Linfoma renal primário em cão / Primary kidney lymphoma in a dog

Background: Lymphoma is a malignant lymphoid tumor originating in the lymph nodes or other solid organs and comprises90% of all hematopoietic tumors in dogs. However, primary kidney lymphoma is rare and is associated with nonspecificclinical signs. Tumor invasion in both kidneys can cause severe clinical signs due to renal failure, complicating the patient’streatment and prognosis. The aim of this case was to report the case of a dog affected by bilateral primary kidney lymphoma. In addition, to characterize the clinical and histopathological presentation due to the intense morphological changes.Case: A 5-year-old male Poodle dog was admitted showing apathy and emesis for 5 days. On physical examination, thedog showed 10% of dehydration, reddish oral mucous membranes, poor body condition (score 1/5), uremic breath, andpain in the kidney area. Complementary tests revealed severe low white blood cells count, high BUN levels, high levels ofpotassium, calcium, and phosphorus (serum biochemistry). Abdominal ultrasound showed bilateral kidney enlargement.Fine needle aspiration of the mass (guided by ultrasound) revealed round cell tumor. Radiographs showed no alterations.The dog died due to his poor condition and necropsy was performed. On post-mortem examination, the kidneys were bothenlarged, pale, and with an irregular subcapsular surface. The histopathological diagnostic was primary renal lymphoma.Immunohistochemical staining revealed that neoplastic cells were strongly positive for anti CD20 and PAX5, while negative for CD3, supporting the diagnosis of B-cell lymphoma.Discussion: The diagnosis was based on clinical, complementary tests, fine needle aspiration, histopathological andimmunohistochemical findings. In dogs, primary kidney tumors are uncommon and usually malignant. The presence ofvomiting, uremic breath, dehydration, weight loss, and erosive and ulcerative lesions on the tongue (uremic glossitis)...

Linfoma renal primário em cão / Primary kidney lymphoma in a dog

Background: Lymphoma is a malignant lymphoid tumor originating in the lymph nodes or other solid organs and comprises90% of all hematopoietic tumors in dogs. However, primary kidney lymphoma is rare and is associated with nonspecificclinical signs. Tumor invasion in both kidneys can cause severe clinical signs due to renal failure, complicating the patientstreatment and prognosis. The aim of this case was to report the case of a dog affected by bilateral primary kidney lymphoma. In addition, to characterize the clinical and histopathological presentation due to the intense morphological changes.Case: A 5-year-old male Poodle dog was admitted showing apathy and emesis for 5 days. On physical examination, thedog showed 10% of dehydration, reddish oral mucous membranes, poor body condition (score 1/5), uremic breath, andpain in the kidney area. Complementary tests revealed severe low white blood cells count, high BUN levels, high levels ofpotassium, calcium, and phosphorus (serum biochemistry). Abdominal ultrasound showed bilateral kidney enlargement.Fine needle aspiration of the mass (guided by ultrasound) revealed round cell tumor. Radiographs showed no alterations.The dog died due to his poor condition and necropsy was performed. On post-mortem examination, the kidneys were bothenlarged, pale, and with an irregular subcapsular surface. The histopathological diagnostic was primary renal lymphoma.Immunohistochemical staining revealed that neoplastic cells were strongly positive for anti CD20 and PAX5, while negative for CD3, supporting the diagnosis of B-cell lymphoma.Discussion: The diagnosis was based on clinical, complementary tests, fine needle aspiration, histopathological andimmunohistochemical findings. In dogs, primary kidney tumors are uncommon and usually malignant. The presence ofvomiting, uremic breath, dehydration, weight loss, and erosive and ulcerative lesions on the tongue (uremic glossitis)...(AU)

Effects of dietary vitamin E on the wound healing induced in Oreochromis niloticus / Efeitos da suplementação com vitamina E na cicatrização de feridas induzidas em Oreochromis niloticus

In the present study, the effect of vitamin E supplementation 450 mg/kg diet was appraised in the process of induced wound healing in Nile tilapias Oreochromis niloticus. Fish were distributed into 18 tanks (10 fish each). Nine tanks were fed the non-supplemented diet and the other 9 tanks were fed 450 mg vitamin E for 60 days. Subsequently, the fish were anesthetized and the epidermis and dermis were surgically removed. The rate of cicatricial retraction and appearance of the wounds, and the histomorphometry of mucous cells, chromatophores, revascularization, inflammatory cells, presence of fibroblasts, collagen fibers, and scales were checked after 3-, 7-, 14-, 21-, and 28-days post-wounding. The retraction rate of the wound was significantly higher in the supplemented fish. The higher concentrations of inflammatory cells, mucous cells, and chromatophores, as well as the production and organization of collagen fibers, resulted in a higher retraction rate. We concluded that a dietary supplementation diet improves specific aspects of the cutaneous healing process in Nile tilapia fish.(AU)

No presente estudo, o efeito da suplementação com vitamina E de 450 mg / kg de dieta foi avaliado no processo de cicatrização induzida de feridas em tilápias do Nilo, Oreochromis niloticus. Os peixes foram distribuídos em 18 tanques (N=10), sendo 9 tanques com dieta não suplementada e os outros 9 tanques suplementados com 450 mg de vitamina E por 60 dias. Posteriormente, os peixes foram anestesiados e a epiderme e derme foram removidas cirurgicamente. Nos tempos pré-determinado de 3, 7, 14, 21 e 28 dias após a ferida foi analisado a taxa de retração cicatricial, a aparência das feridas e a histomorfometria das células mucosas, dos cromatóforos, das células inflamatórias, a revascularização, a presença de fibroblastos, de fibras de colágeno e escamas. A taxa de retração da ferida foi significativamente maior nos peixes suplementados. As maiores concentrações de células inflamatórias, mucosas e cromatóforos, bem como a produção e organização das fibras de colágeno, resultaram em uma maior taxa de retração. Concluímos que a dieta de suplementação melhora aspectos específicos do processo de cicatrização cutânea em peixes de tilápia do Nilo.(AU)

Effects of dietary vitamin E on the wound healing induced in Oreochromis niloticus / Efeitos da suplementação com vitamina E na cicatrização de feridas induzidas em Oreochromis niloticus

In the present study, the effect of vitamin E supplementation 450 mg/kg diet was appraised in the process of induced wound healing in Nile tilapias Oreochromis niloticus. Fish were distributed into 18 tanks (10 fish each). Nine tanks were fed the non-supplemented diet and the other 9 tanks were fed 450 mg vitamin E for 60 days. Subsequently, the fish were anesthetized and the epidermis and dermis were surgically removed. The rate of cicatricial retraction and appearance of the wounds, and the histomorphometry of mucous cells, chromatophores, revascularization, inflammatory cells, presence of fibroblasts, collagen fibers, and scales were checked after 3-, 7-, 14-, 21-, and 28-days post-wounding. The retraction rate of the wound was significantly higher in the supplemented fish. The higher concentrations of inflammatory cells, mucous cells, and chromatophores, as well as the production and organization of collagen fibers, resulted in a higher retraction rate. We concluded that a dietary supplementation diet improves specific aspects of the cutaneous healing process in Nile tilapia fish.(AU)

No presente estudo, o efeito da suplementação com vitamina E de 450 mg / kg de dieta foi avaliado no processo de cicatrização induzida de feridas em tilápias do Nilo, Oreochromis niloticus. Os peixes foram distribuídos em 18 tanques (N=10), sendo 9 tanques com dieta não suplementada e os outros 9 tanques suplementados com 450 mg de vitamina E por 60 dias. Posteriormente, os peixes foram anestesiados e a epiderme e derme foram removidas cirurgicamente. Nos tempos pré-determinado de 3, 7, 14, 21 e 28 dias após a ferida foi analisado a taxa de retração cicatricial, a aparência das feridas e a histomorfometria das células mucosas, dos cromatóforos, das células inflamatórias, a revascularização, a presença de fibroblastos, de fibras de colágeno e escamas. A taxa de retração da ferida foi significativamente maior nos peixes suplementados. As maiores concentrações de células inflamatórias, mucosas e cromatóforos, bem como a produção e organização das fibras de colágeno, resultaram em uma maior taxa de retração. Concluímos que a dieta de suplementação melhora aspectos específicos do processo de cicatrização cutânea em peixes de tilápia do Nilo.(AU)

Atypical spleen hemophagocytic histiocytic sarcoma in a dog

Background: The histiocytic sarcoma (HS) complex is a set of malignant neoplasms originating from interstitial dendritic cells or macrophages. When it involves macrophages of the splenic red pulp and bone marrow, it is referred to as hemophagocytic histiocytic sarcoma (HHS). HHS behaves more aggressively than HS and is usually fatal. HHS can be diagnosed by cytological and histopathological examination of neoplastic tissue. HHS is confirmed by immunohistochemistry using an anti-CD11d antibody. This neoplasm is often confused with immune-mediated hemolytic anemia or Evans syndrome due to erythrophagocytosis and platelet consumption. The clinical presentation of the animals progresses with evident anemia and thrombocytopenia, leading to signs such as prostration, inappetence, and pale mucosa, making diagnosis challenging and often late. This study aimed to report the clinic-pathological aspects of a canine with atypical hemophagocytic splenic HS. Case: A 4-year-old male Shih-Tzu canine was referred to the Veterinary Hospital with a history of prostration and anorexia. Pale mucous membranes were observed on physical examination. Blood tests revealed non-regenerative anemia, leukopenia, and thrombocytopenia. Serum protein levels were below the reference values for the species in biochemical examinations. Hemoparasitosis was suspected; however, the result of the polymerase chain reaction was negative. Abdominal ultrasound revealed a splenomegaly with heterogeneous parenchyma and a slightly irregular surface, but no visible mass in the spleen. Due to the difficulty of stabilizing the patient, even after successive transfusions, the animal underwent exploratory laparotomy with medial access and posterior splenectomy. Subsequently, the spleen was surgically removed, fixed in 10% buffered formalin, and processed routinely. Macroscopically, it had an irregular reddish-brown capsular surface. Histopathological examination of the spleen revealed a densely cellular neoplasm composed of round to spindle cells (histiocytes) arranged haphazardly in variably sized sheets separating the pre-existing spleen stroma. These histopathological findings were consistent with a histiocytic malignant neoplasm. Immunohistochemical analysis was performed to better define the origin of the histiocytic neoplasm. Neoplastic cells showed positive immunostaining of more than 80% of tumor cells for the CD11d antibody and weak immunostaining for CD11c and lysozyme. The patient survived for less than 30 days after the first hospital visit. Discussion: The diagnosis of HHS was based on the histological characteristics and positive immunostaining of more than 80% of the tumor cells for the CD11d antibody. HHS is an extremely aggressive and rare tumor that affects elderly dogs of any breed. In this study, HHS had atypical histologic characteristics, in which erythrophagocytosis and hemosiderin were not observed within macrophages. HHSs arise from macrophages of the red pulp of the spleen or bone marrow and express the b2 integrin, CD11d, and have low expression of CD1 and CD11c, which are predominantly expressed by non-hemophagocytic HS. The hematological and biochemical changes observed in this case were similar to those described in other dogs with HHS. Treatment of HHS is only palliative. Erlichia ewingii, E. canis, Anaplasma phagocytophilum, A. platys, Borrelia burgdorferi, Dirofilaria immitis, Leishmania infantum and immune-mediated hemolytic anemia are the main differential diagnoses because they cause anemia and thrombocytopenia accompanied by splenomegaly.