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)

Steroid-responsive myelitis in dogs - comparison with steroid-responsive meningitis-arteritis

Background: Myelitis is the inflammation of the spinal cord parenchyma alone, whereas meningitis is the inflammation of the meninges. Steroid-responsive meningitis-arteritis (SRMA) is a meningomyelitis in which the major lesions involve the meninges, not the spinal cord parenchyma, and respond well to glucocorticoid treatment. However, myelitis in dogs has rarely been reported, and myelitis with a good response to glucocorticoid treatment without relapse has not been reported. This report describes 5 cases of steroid-responsive myelitis (SRM) in dogs. Cases: Case 1. A 8-year-old intact female Cocker Spaniel presented with progressive nonambulatory paraplegia. Whole spinal parenchymal lesions were identified using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan. Mononuclear pleocytosis with increased total protein levels was the only abnormal finding on cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis. Prednisolone (PDS) was administered followed by dose tapering according to therapeutic response. Cyclosporine was administered until the termination of PDS. Since then, no recurrence of neurological symptoms has been observed. Follow-up MRI and CSF analysis revealed resolution of previously observed abnormal findings. Case 2. A 2-year-old intact female Maltese presented with non-progressive paraparesis. A spinal parenchymal lesion in the lumbosacral region was observed on MRI. PDS was administered and slowly tapered at approximately 3-week intervals. No recurrence of neurological symptoms was observed after the treatment. Case 3. A 6-year-old intact female Miniature Pinscher presented with neck pain, along with leukocytosis and neutrophilia. Cervical spinal parenchyma lesions were revealed through MRI. Increased total protein concentration with mixed cell pleocytosis was observed on CSF analysis. Immunomodulatory therapy, similar to that in case 2, was initiated. A second MRI and CSF analysis revealed an improvement in the previously observed abnormalities. Case 4. A 2-year-old, intact female Toy Poodle presented with acute paraplegia and back pain. Lesions were observed in the spinal parenchyma at the T12-L3 levels on MRI. The treatment was conducted as in case 2. During treatment, neurological symptoms, including paraplegia and back pain, were not observed. Follow-up MRI revealed improvement in the spinal lesion. Case 5. A 6-month-old, castrated male Standard Poodle presented with progressive paraparesis. On MRI, lesions were observed in the T11-T13 regions. Immunomodulation therapy, similar to that in case 2, was initiated. No recurrence of neurological symptoms was observed after treatment initiation Discussion: SRM is similar to SRMA in terms of good steroid-responsiveness and noninfectious inflammation etiology; however, it does not exactly satisfy the diagnostic criteria for SRMA, nor does it progress similarly. The characteristics of SRM that do not satisfy the diagnostic criteria of SRMA include the absence of fever, C-reactive protein elevation, hyperglobulinemia, and relapse, and the presence of spinal parenchymal lesions without parenchymal or meningeal enhancement on MRI. It is also a seemingly different from spinal cord-only meningoencephalomyelitis of unknown origin due to its better treatment response and prognosis. However, the dogs in the present report with SRM satisfied the diagnostic criteria for transverse myelitis in human patients. Therefore, SRM, including good steroid responsiveness and good prognosis without relapse, may represent a novel type of meningomyelitis.

Gurltia paralysans infection in a domestic cat in the São Paulo state, southeastern Brazil

Gurltia paralysans is a nematode first described in 1933 in Chile, causing a syndrome called feline crural parasitic paraplegia. Insects, mollusks, frogs, lizards, and rodents are paratenic hosts of this nematode, and cats probably become infected by ingesting them. This report aims to discuss the main anatomopathological findings of gurltiosis in a cat submitted to necropsy in a laboratory in Ribeirão Preto city, São Paulo state, southeastern Brazil, being the first case reported in this state. The main necroscopic findings were extramedullary reddened areas below the leptomeninges in the cervical and lumbar segments of the spinal cord. The histopathological examination showed marked thickening of the leptomeninges in the lumbar segment of the spinal cord, with marked neovascularization and fibrosis associated with eosinophilic and mononuclear inflammatory infiltration, as well as the presence of intravascular nematodes. The diagnosis of this lesion was chronic segmental meningomyelitis associated with intralesional parasites. Although uncommon, feline gurltiosis is a neglected parasitic disease that should be included as a differential diagnosis of paraparesis in domestic cats.(AU)

Focal spinal hyperesthesia as a prognostic factor in paraplegic dogs without deep pain perception / Hiperestesia espinhal focal como fator prognóstico em cães paraplégicos sem percepção de dor profunda

Intervertebral disc extrusion (IVDE) is the most common cause of spinal cord compression in dogs, whose prognosis is variable and depends on several factors, with deep pain perception (DPP) being the main parameter used. Investigations of new prognostic factors are studied to assist in the estimation of functional recovery. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate whether spinal hyperesthesia (SH) at the compression site can be used as a prognostic factor for the functional recovery of dogs with acute IVDE (Hansen type I), without DPP being subjected to thoracolumbar hemilaminectomy. Decompression surgery was performed on the same day or the day after admission. The duration of the loss of DPP until surgery performance ranged from 1 to 60 days, with a median of 4.5 days for the group of dogs with SH and 5.5 days for those without SH. Among the 68 dogs included in this retrospective study, 73.5% (50/68) showed SH, and 26.5% (18/68) were not identified. Recovery was satisfactory in 60% (30/50) of dogs with SH and in 27.7% (5/18) of dogs without SH, demonstrating that paraplegic dogs without DPP but with SH were 3.9 times more likely to recover when compared to dogs in the same condition, but with no SH. No studies have evaluated SH by palpation of the spine as a prognostic factor, which reinforces the relevance of the present study. The results of this study imply that SH in paraplegic dogs affected by thoracolumbar IVDE, without the presence of DPP, can be used as a possible prognostic indicator of functional recovery.

A extrusão do disco intervertebral (EDIV) é a causa mais comum de lesão compressiva na medula espinhal de cães, cujo prognóstico é variável e depende de diversos fatores, sendo a percepção de dor profunda (PDP) o principal parâmetro utilizado. Pesquisas de novos fatores prognósticos são estudados com intuito de auxiliar na estimativa mais precisa de recuperação funcional. Com isso, o objetivo do estudo foi avaliar se a hiperestesia espinhal (HE) no local da compressão, pode ser utilizada como um fator prognóstico para recuperação funcional de cães com extrusão aguda do disco intervertebral (Hansen tipo I), sem a presença de PDP submetidos a hemilaminectomia toracolombar. A cirurgia descompressiva ocorreu no mesmo dia ou no dia seguinte ao atendimento. A duração da perda de dor profunda até a realização da cirurgia variou de 1 a 60 dias, com uma mediana de 4,5 dias para o grupo de cães com e 5,5 dias para aqueles sem hiperestesia espinhal. Dos 68 cães incluídos nesse estudo retrospectivo, 73,5% (50/68) apresentavam HE e, em 26,5% (18/68) a dor não foi identificada. A recuperação foi satisfatória nos cães com HE em 60% (30/50) e, sem HE, em 27,7% (5/18) dos casos, demonstrando que os cães paraplégicos sem PDP, mas com presença de hiperestesia espinhal tem 3,9 vezes mais chances de recuperação quando comparado com cães na mesma condição, mas sem HE. Não foram encontrados trabalhos que avaliaram a HE mediante a palpação da coluna vertebral como um fator prognóstico, o que reforça a relevância do presente estudo. Os resultados do presente trabalho sugerem que a HE em cães paraplégicos acometidos por EDIV toracolombar sem presença de PDP pode ser utilizada como um possível indicador prognóstico de recuperação funcional.

Empiema epidural espinhal em gato com suspeita de linfoma em canal vertebral / Spinal epidural empyema in a cat with suspect of spinal canal lymphoma

Background: Spinal epidural empyema (SEE) is a rare disease in cats that has been described as a cause of severe compressive myelopathy. It is characterized by accumulation of purulent exudate in the form of an abscess in the epidural space. Neurological signs range from spinal hyperesthesia to rapidly progressive paraplegia and may be associated with systemic signs. Spinal lymphoma is the most common neoplasm affecting the central nervous system of cats and can mimic different neoplasms and non-neoplastic diseases, such as SEE. The aim of this study is to report a case of SEE in a cat and highlight the similarities in neurological, laboratory, and imaging findings between this disease and spinal lymphoma. Case: A 8-month-old male neutered mixed-breed cat was referred to the Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital (HVU) of the UFSM with acute, non-progressive paraplegia. On neurological examination, the patient was paraplegic with no nociception, normal spinal reflexes, increased muscle tone in the pelvic limbs, absence of cutaneous trunci reflex, and spinal hyperesthesia between T13-L1, demonstrating injury in the T3-L3 spinal cord segment. The differential diagnoses included acute spinal cord trauma, neoplasm (lymphoma), and infectious diseases. Hemogram showed lymphocytosis (8062/µL); the biochemical examinations were unremarkable. Tests for antibodies against feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) and feline leukemia virus (FeLV) antigens were negative. Simple radiography, abdominal ultrasonography, and cerebrospinal fluid findings were also normal. Myelography showed left dorsolateral extradural spinal cord compression from T12 to L1. Based on these findings, the presumptive diagnosis was spinal lymphoma and chemotherapy was initiated. After 2 days, the animal began to show hyporexia, adipsia, vomiting, and diarrhea, in addition to an increase in subcutaneous volume in the thoracolumbar region. Antibiotic therapy was initiated; however, the patient died. Necropsy revealed an abscess in the left dorsolateral extradural space at T12-T13 and T13-L1. Bacterial cultures revealed the presence of Neisseria spp. that was resistant to various antibiotics. On the basis of these findings, the animal was diagnosed with SEE. Discussion: This case report aims to inform veterinarians about the diagnosis of SEE. SEE is a rare condition in cats compared to spinal lymphoma; however, their presentation is similar. Even in imaging examinations, such as magnetic resonance imaging, it is not possible to differentiate between these 2 conditions. The evolution of clinical signs made the diagnosis of the present case difficult since it was acute and not progressive. All cases of SEE reported in the literature were progressive, acute, or chronic. Although testing for FeLV was negative, only 56% of cats with spinal lymphoma test positive for this virus. Clinical signs reported by the owner after the start of chemotherapy may be related to adverse effects, such as immunosuppression, which led to worsening of the condition, culminating in the appearance of a subcutaneous abscess. Subsequently, SEE was suspected; however, surgical decompression was not performed as the animal died soon after. The authors of this report reinforce the need for a definitive and non-presumptive diagnosis of spinal lymphoma to initiate chemotherapy because it mimics different neoplasms and non-neoplastic diseases, such as SEE. Surgical removal of the compressive mass in the spinal cord and histopathological analyses are necessary.

Feline aortic thromboembolism diagnosed by thermography

Background: In cats, arterial thromboembolism is one of the most devastating diseases, with an acute presentation, andis often caused by undiagnosed cardiomyopathy. Defined as the obstruction of one or more arterial lumens by emboli,the arterial thromboembolism is responsible for hypoperfusion signs. As the temperature of the skin surface is directlyrelated to tissue perfusion, thermography can be promising for the early diagnosis of thromboembolism. Therefore, thisstudy reports the importance of thermography as a complementary examination for the diagnosis of thromboembolism inthe abdominal aorta of a domestic cat.Case: A 4-year-old mixed-breed cat weighing 2.95 kg was presented with a history of sudden onset paraplegia, apathy,and pain when handled, with greater intensity in the sacro-coccidian region. During physical exam, it was noted that thefemoral artery pulse was undetectable bilaterally during manual pulse measurement. Superficial and deep sensitivity inthe pelvic limbs and proprioception were also absent and the plantar cushions and nail beds of the posterior limbs werepale to cyanotic. Thermographic images revealed that the temperature of both hind limbs was lower than that of forelimbs,with difference of 3.2ºC and 2.9ºC between the left and right limbs, respectively. Doppler ultrasonography revealed theabsence of pulse and flow in the femoral arteries bilaterally. Electrocardiography revealed sinus tachycardia, with a heartrate of 250 bpm. Echocardiography revealed dilation of the left atrium and concentric cardiac hypertrophy. After 24 h, dueto the worsening of the clinical condition and unfavorable prognosis, the animal was euthanized and sent for necropsy.Necropsy revealed that the arterial lumen of the caudal abdominal aorta and bifurcation of the iliac arteries were obliterated...

Feline aortic thromboembolism diagnosed by thermography

Background: In cats, arterial thromboembolism is one of the most devastating diseases, with an acute presentation, andis often caused by undiagnosed cardiomyopathy. Defined as the obstruction of one or more arterial lumens by emboli,the arterial thromboembolism is responsible for hypoperfusion signs. As the temperature of the skin surface is directlyrelated to tissue perfusion, thermography can be promising for the early diagnosis of thromboembolism. Therefore, thisstudy reports the importance of thermography as a complementary examination for the diagnosis of thromboembolism inthe abdominal aorta of a domestic cat.Case: A 4-year-old mixed-breed cat weighing 2.95 kg was presented with a history of sudden onset paraplegia, apathy,and pain when handled, with greater intensity in the sacro-coccidian region. During physical exam, it was noted that thefemoral artery pulse was undetectable bilaterally during manual pulse measurement. Superficial and deep sensitivity inthe pelvic limbs and proprioception were also absent and the plantar cushions and nail beds of the posterior limbs werepale to cyanotic. Thermographic images revealed that the temperature of both hind limbs was lower than that of forelimbs,with difference of 3.2ºC and 2.9ºC between the left and right limbs, respectively. Doppler ultrasonography revealed theabsence of pulse and flow in the femoral arteries bilaterally. Electrocardiography revealed sinus tachycardia, with a heartrate of 250 bpm. Echocardiography revealed dilation of the left atrium and concentric cardiac hypertrophy. After 24 h, dueto the worsening of the clinical condition and unfavorable prognosis, the animal was euthanized and sent for necropsy.Necropsy revealed that the arterial lumen of the caudal abdominal aorta and bifurcation of the iliac arteries were obliterated...(AU)

Vertebrectomia total e estabilização com pinos e polimetilmetacrilato como tratamento para luxação entre vértebras torácicas em cão ­ relato de caso / Total vertebrectomy and stabilization with pins and polymethylmethacrylate as treatment for thoracic vertebral luxation in a dog - case report

As lesões decorrentes de atropelamento são as principais causas de fraturas e luxações vertebrais, ocasionando graus variáveis de injúrias vertebrais e medulares. O presente trabalho tem como objetivo relatar a ocorrência de lesão traumática em coluna vertebral de cão sem raça definida, com quatro anos de idade, resultando em luxação T11-12, com exposição de T11 e secção medular, estando o paciente paraplégico, com sinais de lesão em neurônio motor superior e ausência de nocicepção profunda em membros pélvicos. O tratamento de escolha foi a vertebrectomia de T11, associada ao alinhamento de T10-12 com introdução de pinos e fixação com polimetilmetacrilato (PMMA) associado à ceftriaxona. Em decorrência de lesão na pleura parietal no trans-cirúrgico, optou-se pela toracostomia para introdução de tubo torácico, o qual permaneceu no paciente por quatro dias. No pós-operatório, o paciente apresentou recuperação satisfatória, sendo recomendado aos tutores a confecção de cadeira de rodas a fim de facilitar sua locomoção. A técnica mostrou-se satisfatória para minimizar as infecções passíveis de ocorrência em fraturas expostas, bem como melhorar a qualidade de vida do paciente, evitando-se dores crônicas.

Injuries resulting from being run over are the leading causes of vertebral fractures and dislocations, causing varying vertebral and spinal injuries. The present study aims to report the occurrence of traumatic injury to the spine of a mixed breed dog, aged four years, resulting in a T11-12 dislocation, with T11 exposure and spinal section, with the patient showing paraplegia, signs of an upper motor neuron lesion and absence of deep nociception in pelvic limbs. The treatment of choice was T11 vertebrectomy, associated with the alignment of T10-12 with the introduction of pins and fixation with polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) associated with ceftriaxone. Due to a lesion in the parietal pleura during the surgery, thoracostomy was chosen to introduce a chest tube, which remained in the patient for four days. In the postoperative period, the patient presented a satisfactory recovery, and it was recommended that tutors make a wheelchair to facilitate their mobility. The technique proved to be satisfactory for minimizing infections that could occur in open fractures and improving the patient's quality of life, avoiding chronic pain.

Intradural extramedullary plasmacytoma in a dog

Background: Plasmacytoma is a neoplasm originating in plasma cells, derived from B lymphocytes. Extramedullary presentation is the most common form of plasmacytoma, mainly in the skin and rarely in other tissues, including the vertebral canal. Extramedullary plasmacytoma (EMP) occurs more frequently in senile dogs and rarely in cats and some dog breeds have predisposition for this type of neoplasm. The aim of this study was to report plasmacytoma in a dog located adjacent to the thoracic vertebrae. Case: An approximately 5-year-old mongrel male with sudden paraplegia resulting from upper motor neuron injury was admitted to a University Hospital. The dog presented a six-centimeter diameter mass in the dorsal region, adjacent to the thoracic vertebrae. The leucogram presented mild leukopenia by eosinopenia and lymphopenia. Myelogram associated with epidurography showed a fill failure in the contrast column between the seventh and ninth thoracic vertebrae, and there were no osteolysis points in the thoracic vertebrae, adjacent to the neoplastic mass. The evaluation of the intervertebral spaces between the fourth to ninth thoracic vertebrae presented no increase in radiopacity, nor alterations in the size of intervertebral spaces, indicating intervertebral disc extrusion. The laterolateral radiographs showed an alignment of the vertebrae and vertebral canal, without presence of bone neoformations on the ventral face of the vertebral bodies. The animal was euthanized and fragments of mass were collected for histological analysis. Macroscopic findings presented a non-encapsulated well-delimited mass, with color ranging from white to reddish. Microscopically, there was proliferation of moderately differentiated round cells in bone and muscle tissues, arranged in mantle

Intradural extramedullary plasmacytoma in a dog

Background: Plasmacytoma is a neoplasm originating in plasma cells, derived from B lymphocytes. Extramedullary presentation is the most common form of plasmacytoma, mainly in the skin and rarely in other tissues, including the vertebral canal. Extramedullary plasmacytoma (EMP) occurs more frequently in senile dogs and rarely in cats and some dog breeds have predisposition for this type of neoplasm. The aim of this study was to report plasmacytoma in a dog located adjacent to the thoracic vertebrae. Case: An approximately 5-year-old mongrel male with sudden paraplegia resulting from upper motor neuron injury was admitted to a University Hospital. The dog presented a six-centimeter diameter mass in the dorsal region, adjacent to the thoracic vertebrae. The leucogram presented mild leukopenia by eosinopenia and lymphopenia. Myelogram associated with epidurography showed a fill failure in the contrast column between the seventh and ninth thoracic vertebrae, and there were no osteolysis points in the thoracic vertebrae, adjacent to the neoplastic mass. The evaluation of the intervertebral spaces between the fourth to ninth thoracic vertebrae presented no increase in radiopacity, nor alterations in the size of intervertebral spaces, indicating intervertebral disc extrusion. The laterolateral radiographs showed an alignment of the vertebrae and vertebral canal, without presence of bone neoformations on the ventral face of the vertebral bodies. The animal was euthanized and fragments of mass were collected for histological analysis. Macroscopic findings presented a non-encapsulated well-delimited mass, with color ranging from white to reddish. Microscopically, there was proliferation of moderately differentiated round cells in bone and muscle tissues, arranged in mantle…(AU)

Steinmann pins and polymethylmethacrylate repair of fourth lumbar vertebral fracture and dorsocranial luxation in puppy

Background: Acute spinal traumas can lead to irreversible damage associated with vascular and inflammatory changes in neural tissue. Since spine and spinal cord traumas have an unfavorable prognosis in small animals, and reports of the use of Steinmann pins and polymethylmethacrylate repair of lumbar vertebra fracture-luxation in puppies are rare in the literature, the present paper aimed to report the surgical treatment of transversal fracture through the body of the fourth lumbar vertebra, with dorsocranial displacement of the caudal fragment by using Steinmann pins and polymethylmethacrylate in a 7-month-old Labrador Retriever male dog. Case: A 7-month-old intact male Labrador Retriever dog, weighing 24.0 kg was attended at School Veterinary Hospital with a history of hit by car and paraplegia of the hind limbs. On neurological examination was observed no proprioception and no deep pain sensitivity on the both pelvic limbs. The lumbar spinal palpation showed intense pain, and the motor function and patellar reflexes were reduced. The values of haematological and biochemical analysis remained within the reference values for the species. Radiographs revealed a transversal fracture through the body of the fourth lumbar vertebra, with dorsocranial displacement of the caudal fragment, and was decided to perform a surgical treatment by open reduction and internal fixation of the fracture. The dog was positioned in ventral recumbency for surgery, and a dorsal midline incision was made from the second lumbar vertebra to the sixth lumbar vertebra. Two crossed 1.5 mm Kirschner wires were placed through the caudal articular facets of the fourth lumbar vertebra to provide initial stability...

Steinmann pins and polymethylmethacrylate repair of fourth lumbar vertebral fracture and dorsocranial luxation in puppy

Background: Acute spinal traumas can lead to irreversible damage associated with vascular and inflammatory changes in neural tissue. Since spine and spinal cord traumas have an unfavorable prognosis in small animals, and reports of the use of Steinmann pins and polymethylmethacrylate repair of lumbar vertebra fracture-luxation in puppies are rare in the literature, the present paper aimed to report the surgical treatment of transversal fracture through the body of the fourth lumbar vertebra, with dorsocranial displacement of the caudal fragment by using Steinmann pins and polymethylmethacrylate in a 7-month-old Labrador Retriever male dog. Case: A 7-month-old intact male Labrador Retriever dog, weighing 24.0 kg was attended at School Veterinary Hospital with a history of hit by car and paraplegia of the hind limbs. On neurological examination was observed no proprioception and no deep pain sensitivity on the both pelvic limbs. The lumbar spinal palpation showed intense pain, and the motor function and patellar reflexes were reduced. The values of haematological and biochemical analysis remained within the reference values for the species. Radiographs revealed a transversal fracture through the body of the fourth lumbar vertebra, with dorsocranial displacement of the caudal fragment, and was decided to perform a surgical treatment by open reduction and internal fixation of the fracture. The dog was positioned in ventral recumbency for surgery, and a dorsal midline incision was made from the second lumbar vertebra to the sixth lumbar vertebra. Two crossed 1.5 mm Kirschner wires were placed through the caudal articular facets of the fourth lumbar vertebra to provide initial stability...(AU)

Efeito da magnetoterapia e infravermelho na algesia e estresse de uma cadela paraplégica: um breve relato de caso

A dor e estresse são achados que podem ser visualizados nos animais e que levam a distúrbios homeostáticos que comprometem o seu bem-estar. Dessa forma, a magnetoterapia surge como uma alternativa terapêutica para amenizar a dor, o estresse e suas consequências para o animal. Objetivou-se relatar o efeito da magnetoterapia e infravermelho na algesia e estresse de uma cadela paraplégica. Acompanhou-se uma cadela de 10 anos com histórico de paraplegia. A mesma apresentava constantes recidivas de infecção urinária, quadro de insônia e dor. Diante do quadro, foi confeccionado um colchão o qual continha magneto e infravermelho longo. Após 06 meses de uso, verificou-se uma melhora significativa no quadro de dor e estresse do animal. Verificou-se também uma redução na frequência de recidivas de infecções do trato urinário. Conclui-se, nesse relato, que a utilização de magnetoterapia associada ao efeito do infravermelho longo parecem apresentar efeito analgésico e antiestressante em cadela paraplégica. Entretanto, são necessários maiores estudos.(AU)

Pain and stress are findings that can be seen in animals and lead to homeostatic disorders that compromise their well-being. In this way, magnetotherapy appears as a therapeutic alternative to relieve pain, stress and its consequences for the animal. The objective was to report the effect of magnetotherapy and infrared on the algesia and stress of a paraplegic bitch. We followed a 10-year-old female with a history of paraplegia. It had constant recurrences of urinary tract infection, insomnia and pain. Before the painting, a mattress was made which contained a magnet and a long infrared. After six months of use, there was a significant improvement in the pain and stress of the animal. There was also a reduction in the frequency of relapses of urinary tract infections. It is concluded, in this report, that the use of magnetotherapy associated to the effect of the long infrared seems to present analgesic and anti-stressant effect in a paraplegic bitch. However, further studies are needed.(AU)

Efeito da magnetoterapia e infravermelho na algesia e estresse de uma cadela paraplégica: um breve relato de caso

A dor e estresse são achados que podem ser visualizados nos animais e que levam a distúrbios homeostáticos que comprometem o seu bem-estar. Dessa forma, a magnetoterapia surge como uma alternativa terapêutica para amenizar a dor, o estresse e suas consequências para o animal. Objetivou-se relatar o efeito da magnetoterapia e infravermelho na algesia e estresse de uma cadela paraplégica. Acompanhou-se uma cadela de 10 anos com histórico de paraplegia. A mesma apresentava constantes recidivas de infecção urinária, quadro de insônia e dor. Diante do quadro, foi confeccionado um colchão o qual continha magneto e infravermelho longo. Após 06 meses de uso, verificou-se uma melhora significativa no quadro de dor e estresse do animal. Verificou-se também uma redução na frequência de recidivas de infecções do trato urinário. Conclui-se, nesse relato, que a utilização de magnetoterapia associada ao efeito do infravermelho longo parecem apresentar efeito analgésico e antiestressante em cadela paraplégica. Entretanto, são necessários maiores estudos.

Pain and stress are findings that can be seen in animals and lead to homeostatic disorders that compromise their well-being. In this way, magnetotherapy appears as a therapeutic alternative to relieve pain, stress and its consequences for the animal. The objective was to report the effect of magnetotherapy and infrared on the algesia and stress of a paraplegic bitch. We followed a 10-year-old female with a history of paraplegia. It had constant recurrences of urinary tract infection, insomnia and pain. Before the painting, a mattress was made which contained a magnet and a long infrared. After six months of use, there was a significant improvement in the pain and stress of the animal. There was also a reduction in the frequency of relapses of urinary tract infections. It is concluded, in this report, that the use of magnetotherapy associated to the effect of the long infrared seems to present analgesic and anti-stressant effect in a paraplegic bitch. However, further studies are needed.

Fisioterapia na recuperação funcional e qualidade de vida de cães paraplégicos por doença do disco intervertebral (Hansen tipo I) toracolombar submetidos à cirurgia descompressiva / Physiotherapy in functional recovery and quality of life of paraplegic dogs due to thoracolumbar intervertebral disc disease (Hansen type I) submitted to decompressive surgery

Este estudo retrospectivo incluiu cães paraplégicos com ausência de percepção a dor profunda secundário a doença do disco intervertebral toracolombar e submetidos à cirurgia descompressiva. Teve como objetivo comparar a recuperação funcional e a qualidade de vida (QV) quando submetidos a um protocolo em um centro especializado ou a domicílio realizado pelo tutor. Vinte e oito cães foram distribuídos no grupo A (GA) e submetidos ao protocolo domiciliar e 38 denominados grupo B (GB) em um centro especializado. Recuperaram a habilidade de caminhar 43% dos cães em uma média de 40 dias de pós-operatório (PO) no GA e 42% em uma média de 36 dias no GB. Em 53% dos casos (35/66) os cães permaneceram paraplégicos sem percepção a dor profunda ao final do período de 90 dias de PO. Vinte e cinco tutores do GA e 26 do GB responderam um questionário sobre a QV, com no mínimo seis meses de PO. A avaliação do tempo de sobrevida dos animais, realização de eutanásia e nota atribuída a QV demonstraram que os cães do GB provavelmente foram beneficiados pelo estreito acompanhamento e orientação aos tutores até 90 dias PO.(AU)

The retrospective study included paraplegic dogs affected by thoracolumbar intervertebral disc disease with absence of deep pain perception and submitted to a decompressive surgical technique. The aim was to compare functional recovery and quality of life (QOL) of dogs that underwent a home physiotherapy protocol to dogs that were cared in a specialized center. Twenty-eight dogs were placed in group A (GA, home physiotherapy protocol) and other 38 patients were placed in group B (GB, physiotherapy protocol in a specialized center). Forty three percent (43%) of the patients recovered the ability to walk in an average of 40 postoperative (PO) days in GA and 42% in an average of 36 days in GB. In 53% of the cases (35/66) the dogs remained paraplegic without deep pain perception at the end of physiotherapeutic protocols. Twenty-five owners from GA and 26 from GB answered a questionnaire about QOL, with a minimum of six PO months. The evaluation of the animals survival time, euthanasia and the QOL score demonstrated that dogs that underwent a physiotherapeutic treatment in a specialized center probably were benefited by the close monitoring and orientation to owners until 90 days of PO.(AU)

Fisioterapia na recuperação funcional e qualidade de vida de cães paraplégicos por doença do disco intervertebral (Hansen tipo I) toracolombar submetidos à cirurgia descompressiva / Physiotherapy in functional recovery and quality of life of paraplegic dogs due to thoracolumbar intervertebral disc disease (Hansen type I) submitted to decompressive surgery

Este estudo retrospectivo incluiu cães paraplégicos com ausência de percepção a dor profunda secundário a doença do disco intervertebral toracolombar e submetidos à cirurgia descompressiva. Teve como objetivo comparar a recuperação funcional e a qualidade de vida (QV) quando submetidos a um protocolo em um centro especializado ou a domicílio realizado pelo tutor. Vinte e oito cães foram distribuídos no grupo A (GA) e submetidos ao protocolo domiciliar e 38 denominados grupo B (GB) em um centro especializado. Recuperaram a habilidade de caminhar 43% dos cães em uma média de 40 dias de pós-operatório (PO) no GA e 42% em uma média de 36 dias no GB. Em 53% dos casos (35/66) os cães permaneceram paraplégicos sem percepção a dor profunda ao final do período de 90 dias de PO. Vinte e cinco tutores do GA e 26 do GB responderam um questionário sobre a QV, com no mínimo seis meses de PO. A avaliação do tempo de sobrevida dos animais, realização de eutanásia e nota atribuída a QV demonstraram que os cães do GB provavelmente foram beneficiados pelo estreito acompanhamento e orientação aos tutores até 90 dias PO.(AU)

The retrospective study included paraplegic dogs affected by thoracolumbar intervertebral disc disease with absence of deep pain perception and submitted to a decompressive surgical technique. The aim was to compare functional recovery and quality of life (QOL) of dogs that underwent a home physiotherapy protocol to dogs that were cared in a specialized center. Twenty-eight dogs were placed in group A (GA, home physiotherapy protocol) and other 38 patients were placed in group B (GB, physiotherapy protocol in a specialized center). Forty three percent (43%) of the patients recovered the ability to walk in an average of 40 postoperative (PO) days in GA and 42% in an average of 36 days in GB. In 53% of the cases (35/66) the dogs remained paraplegic without deep pain perception at the end of physiotherapeutic protocols. Twenty-five owners from GA and 26 from GB answered a questionnaire about QOL, with a minimum of six PO months. The evaluation of the animals survival time, euthanasia and the QOL score demonstrated that dogs that underwent a physiotherapeutic treatment in a specialized center probably were benefited by the close monitoring and orientation to owners until 90 days of PO.(AU)

Dantrolene e células-tronco mesenquimais promovem melhora funcional em ratos Wistar com trauma espinhal agudo

ABSTRACT: This study aimed to evaluate the effects of dantrolene (DAN) and mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in acute spinal cord injury (SCI). Sixty Wistar rats were divided into groups MSCs, MSCs + DAN, DAN, trauma and placebo (TP) and no trauma and placebo (STP). Laminectomy was performed at T12 level in all animals, followed by a weight-drop model of SCI, except for the STP group. An hour later, the MSCs + DAN and DAN groups received 10mg/kg of DAN. After seven days, the MSCs and MSCs + DAN groups received 1x106 cells intravenously. Behavioral tests were performed to assess functional recovery for 28 days. Traumatized animals showed paraplegia. There was a significant improvement in groups MSCs, DAN and MSCs + DAN compared to TP (p 0.05). It was concluded that DAN and MSCs for the treatment of SCI in rats have neuroprotection effect and promote functional neurological improvement.

RESUMO: Objetivou-se avaliar o efeito do dantrolene (DAN) e das células-tronco mesenquimais (CTM) no trauma espinhal agudo (TEA). Sessenta ratos Wistar foram divididos nos grupos CTM, DAN + CTM, DAN, trauma e placebo (TP) e sem trauma e placebo (STP). Realizou-se laminectomia de T12 em todos os grupos, seguida de TEA contusivo compressivo, com exceção do grupo STP. Uma hora depois, os grupos DAN + CTM e DAN receberam 10mg/kg de DAN. Após sete dias os grupos CTM e DAN + CTM receberam 1x106 células, por via intravenosa. Testes comportamentais foram realizados para avaliar a recuperação funcional durante 28 dias. Os animais traumatizados apresentaram paraplegia. Houve melhora funcional significativa nos grupos tratados com CTM, DAN ou associação DAN + CTM em comparação ao grupo TP (p 0,05). Conclui-se que o DAN e as CTM para tratamento de TEA em ratos apresentam efeitos neuroprotetores e promovem melhora neurológica funcional.

Dantrolene e células-tronco mesenquimais promovem melhora funcional em ratos Wistar com trauma espinhal agudo / Dantrolene and mesenchymal stem cells promote functional improvement in Wistar rats with spinal cord injury

Objetivou-se avaliar o efeito do dantrolene (DAN) e das células-tronco mesenquimais (CTM) no trauma espinhal agudo (TEA). Sessenta ratos Wistar foram divididos nos grupos CTM, DAN + CTM, DAN, trauma e placebo (TP) e sem trauma e placebo (STP). Realizou-se laminectomia de T12 em todos os grupos, seguida de TEA contusivo ∕ compressivo, com exceção do grupo STP. Uma hora depois, os grupos DAN + CTM e DAN receberam 10mg/kg de DAN. Após sete dias os grupos CTM e DAN + CTM receberam 1x106 células, por via intravenosa. Testes comportamentais foram realizados para avaliar a recuperação funcional durante 28 dias. Os animais traumatizados apresentaram paraplegia. Houve melhora funcional significativa nos grupos tratados com CTM, DAN ou associação DAN + CTM em comparação ao grupo TP (p<0,05). Conclui-se que o DAN e as CTM para tratamento de TEA em ratos apresentam efeitos neuroprotetores e promovem melhora neurológica funcional.(AU)

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of dantrolene (DAN) and mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in acute spinal cord injury (SCI). Sixty Wistar rats were divided into groups MSCs, MSCs + DAN, DAN, trauma and placebo (TP) and no trauma and placebo (STP). Laminectomy was performed at T12 level in all animals, followed by a weight-drop model of SCI, except for the STP group. An hour later, the MSCs + DAN and DAN groups received 10mg/kg of DAN. After seven days, the MSCs and MSCs + DAN groups received 1x106 cells intravenously. Behavioral tests were performed to assess functional recovery for 28 days. Traumatized animals showed paraplegia. There was a significant improvement in groups MSCs, DAN and MSCs + DAN compared to TP (p<0.05). It was concluded that DAN and MSCs for the treatment of SCI in rats have neuroprotection effect and promote functional neurological improvement.(AU)

Modalidades fisioterapêuticas na reabilitação de cães com doença do disco intervertebral toracolombar submetidos à cirurgia descompressiva: 30 casos (2008-2016) / Physiotherapeutic modalities in the rehabilitation of dogs with thoracolumbar intervertebral disc disease that underwent to decompressive surgery: 30 cases (2008-2016)

Este estudo retrospectivo teve como objetivo demonstrar as modalidades fisioterapêuticas empregadas no tratamento de cães com doença do disco intervertebral (DDIV) toracolombar após descompressão cirúrgica da medula espinhal, bem como relatar os fatores que determinaram as alterações das modalidades. Foram incluídos 30 cães que apresentavam sinais neurológicos desde paraparesia ambulatória a paraplegia com dor profunda na primeira sessão de fisioterapia. As modalidades utilizadas nos protocolos de todos os pacientes foram a crioterapia, massagem, alongamento passivo, movimentação passiva articular, estímulo do reflexo flexor e estimulação elétrica neuromuscular. A inclusão ou exclusão de exercícios terapêuticos, como a tipoia corporal, a plataforma proprioceptiva circular, a natação, a hidroesteira, os obstáculos e a caminhada em colchão, foi de acordo com a evolução clínica e a adaptação de cada paciente. Oitenta por cento (80%) dos cães alteraram o grau de disfunção neurológica antes de iniciar a fisioterapia e 93% retornaram à habilidade de caminhar (paraparesia ambulatória) ao final da fisioterapia. O número de sessões e o tempo de recuperação foram maiores quanto pior foi o grau de lesão do paciente.(AU)

This retrospective study aimed to demonstrate the physiotherapeutic modalities used in the treatment of dogs with thoracolumbar intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) after surgical spinal cord decompression and to report elements that determined the modalities changes. Thirty dogs with deep pain perception were selected in the first physiotherapy session, presenting a range of clinical signs from ambulatory paraparesis to paraplegia. The modalities used in the protocols of all patients were cryotherapy, massage, passive stretching, passive range of motion, flexor reflex stimulation and neuromuscular electrical stimulation. The inclusion or exclusion of the therapeutic exercises how body sling (walking sling), circular proprioceptive platform, swimming, underwater treadmill, cavaletti rails and foam mattress walking were according to the clinical evolution and acceptance of each patient. Eighty percent (80%) of the dogs manifested improvement in their neurological dysfunction degree before starting physical therapy and 93% were able to walk again (ambulatory paraparesis) at the end of physiotherapy. The number of sessions and recovery times were higher in patients with higher neurological dysfunction degrees.(AU)

Estabilização vertebral segmentar modificada no tratamento de trauma medular em ouriço-cacheiro (Coendou spinosus): relato de caso / Modified segmental vertebral stabilization in the treatment of spinal cord trauma in a Paraguaian hairy dwarf porcupine (Coendou spinosus): case report

Uma fêmea, adulta, de ouriço-cacheiro (Coendou spinosus, F. Cuvier, 1823), foi atendida com histórico de trauma medular. No exame neurológico, foi constatada paraplegia com nocicepção preservada e sinais compatíveis com choque espinhal. Exame radiográfico e mielografia apontaram presença de fratura e luxação vertebral torácica entre T10-11. O paciente foi submetido à técnica de estabilização vertebral segmentar modificada, com pinos de Steinmann e fios de cerclagem. A técnica utilizada mostrou-se eficaz na estabilização da fratura/luxação vertebral e na recuperação dos sinais neurológicos. O paciente apresentou recuperação progressiva da deambulação. Para o conhecimento dos autores, este é o primeiro relato utilizando estabilização vertebral segmentar modificada para o tratamento de fratura/luxação vertebral torácica em Coendou spinosus.(AU)

An female, adult Paraguayan hairy dwarf porcupine (Coendou spinosus, F. Cuvier, 1823) was referred to the Veterinary Hospital with clinical history of spinal cord injury. In the neurological examination, paraplegia with preserved nociception compatible with signs of spinal shock were observed. Radiographic and myelographic examinations showed evidence of a vertebral dislocation and fracture between the 10th and 11th thoracic vertebrae. The patient underwent surgical stabilization of the lesion using the modified segmental vertebral stabilization technique with Steinmann pins and cerclage wires. Under the conditions reported in this case, the technique was effective in stabilizing vertebral fracture/dislocation and in recovering neurological functions. The patient presented progressive recovery from ambulation. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first case report that performed modified segment stabilization for thoracic vertebral fracture/luxation treatment in Coendou spinosus.(AU)