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.

Aneurisma aórtico torácico com trombose associada em Bugio-preto (Alouatta caraya) / Thoracic aortic aneurysm with associated thrombosis in black-and-gold howler monkey (Alouatta caraya)

O aneurisma é uma dilatação anormal e permanente das artérias, resultante do enfraquecimento da parede do vaso adelgaçamento da camada média e enfraquecimento da camada elástica. Em animais, a maioria dos casos de aneurisma tem origem idiopática e são detectados acidentalmente durante a necropsia. O objetivo deste trabalho é relatar um caso de aneurisma aórtico com trombose associada em Bugio-preto(Alouatta caraya), bem como seus aspectos patológicos. O animal era adulto, macho, pertencente ao Centro Nacional de Primatas (CENP), na cidade de Ananindeua-PA, foi encaminhado para exame necroscópico para investigação da causa mortis. No histórico do animal, não constava qualquer enfermidade. O animal apresentava bom escore de condição corporal com preservação da topografia anatômica dos órgãos. Entretanto, observou-se presença de aumento de volume localizado em aorta torácica, a 1,4 cm da base do coração. Na abertura aórtica foi observado dilatações de tamanhos variados e, no interior da maior dilatação, notou-se uma estrutura de coloração vermelho escuro, aderida, de aspecto seco e superfície áspera, medindo 1,5 cm. Aneurismas aórticos em primatas não humanos não são comuns, porém já foram reportados na literatura. O diagnóstico precoce utilizando exames complementares é importante, porém, ainda há recursos não empregados na rotina veterinária tornando ainda mais difícil o diagnóstico e prevenção. Por isso, na medicina veterinária, os aneurismas são detectados acidentalmente durante a necropsia. Com base nos achados anatomopatológicos, concluiu-se que o animal veio a óbito por trombose associada a aneurisma aórtico.

An aneurysm is an abnormal and permanent dilation of the arteries, resulting from the weakening of the vessel wall.thinning of the middle layer and weakening of the elastic layer. In animals, most cases of aneurysm are idiopathic. This paper aimed to report a case of aortic aneurysm with associated thrombosis in a black-and-gold howler monkey(Alouatta caraya), as well as its pathological aspects. The animal was an adult, male, belonging to the National Primate Center (CENP), in the city of Ananindeua-PA, that was referred for necroscopic examination to investigate the causa mortis. In the animal's history, there was no disease. The animal had a good body condition score with preservation of the anatomical topography of the organs. However, there was an increase in volume located in the thoracic aorta, 1.4 cm from the base of the heart. In the aortic opening, dilations of different sizes were observed, and inside the largest dilatation, a structure of dark red color, adhered, with a dry appearance and rough surface, measuring 1.5 cm was noted in addition to dilations of different sizes. Inside the largest cavitation, a dark red structure was observed, adhered, with a dry appearance and rough surface, measuring 1.5 cm. Aortic aneurysms in non-human primates are incommon, but have been reported in the literature. Early diagnosis using complementary exams is important, however, there are still resources not used in the veterinary routine, making diagnosis and prevention even more difficult. Therefore, in veterinary medicine, aneurysms are accidentally detected during necropsy. Based on the anatomopathological findings, it was concluded that the animal died due to thrombosis associated with an aortic aneurysm.

Thoracic aortic aneurysm. An experimental model in pigs

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

Protein malnutrition during lactation affects thoracic aortic tunica media thickness in Wistar rat pups

ABSTRACT Purpose: To evaluate the morphological effects of a low-protein diet during maternal lactation on the offspring's thoracic aorta. Methods: Two female Wistar rats were mated with male of the same species at 4 months of age. Until the birth of the pups, all animals received commercial rat chow. After giving birth, the puerperal females were divided into two groups and adjusted the litter to five puppies per group: a control group that received commercial feed, and an experimental group whose diet included the same amount of calories, but 8% lower protein content. All animals' masses were measured throughout the lactation period, and the pups were euthanized after weaning at 21 days of age. The thoracic aorta was removed, histologically processed and stained with Weigert's resorcin-fuchsin for histomorphometric analysis of tunica media thickness. Results: Although both groups were born with similar body mass, during the 21 days of lactation the restricted protein group gained only 39% of the body mass of the control group. Histomorphometric analysis revealed that the restricted protein group had a significantly lower mean tunica media thickness than the control group. Conclusions: A low-protein diet for nursing mothers influences mass gain and aortic tunica media thickness in their offspring.

Morphometry, topography and arterial supply of the thyroid gland in brazilian shorthair cat

Thyroid gland diseases are the most common endocrinopathies in feline practice. Diagnosis and surgical treatment must base on solid anatomical knowledge about the gland size, localization, and blood supply. However, some textbooks provide a general anatomical description of the thyroid gland of domestic carnivores. Thus, specific details of the feline gland are missing. The present study aimed to investigate the dimensions, topography, and arterial supply of the thyroid gland in Brazilian shorthair cats and, therefore, provide additional data to diagnose and treat feline thyroid diseases. Thirty Brazilian shorthair cats formalin-fixed cadavers (15 male and 15 female) were injected with red-stained latex solution by a canula in the thoracic aorta. The necropsy unit of the Rural Federal University of Rio de Janeiro donated the specimens. The study included only adult animals with no history of thyroid disease. After the fixation period, the cadavers were dissected to investigate the measurements (length, width at cranial and caudal poles, and thickness), topography, and in situ arterial supply of the thyroid lobes. The mean measurements of the length, cranial pole width, caudal pole width, and thickness in the right lobe were 19.39 ± 3.10 mm, 5.36 ± 1.40 mm, 3.67 ± 0.93 mm, and 1.30 ± 0.29 mm, respectively; and 20.29 ± 3.35 mm, 4.85 ± 1.58 mm, 3.88 ± 0.91 mm, 1.64 ± 0.65 mm in the left lobe, respectively. There were no statistical differences (P > 0.05) in the comparison of the measures between sexes or antimers (sides). Pearson's linear correlation detected a positive, moderate (r = 0.55), and significant (P < 0.05) correlation between the right and left lobe lengths. In 70% of the cats, both left and right lobes had the cranial poles located at the same level. Typically, the lobes extended between the first to the eighth tracheal ring. However, the cranial pole of some lobes located as cranially as the cricoid cartilage level, and the caudal pole as caudally as the 12th tracheal ring. Fifty-six percent of the cats had a ventrally located isthmus. In all the sampling, one single thyroid artery emerged as a branch of the common carotid artery and provided branches directly to the thyroid lobe, isthmus and the adjacent muscles and esophagus. Besides establishing average dimensions of normal thyroid lobes in Brazilian shorthair cats, this study detected no significant difference between the average measurements of right and left lobes. Also, a positive linear correlation between the length and width of the right and left lobes became evident. Therefore, the practitioner must consider suspicious any length asymmetry between right and left thyroid lobes until further endocrine test proves otherwise. Most of the cats had the right and left thyroid lobe positioned at the same transversal level; however, positional asymmetries are not uncommon. Unlike dogs, Brazilian shorthair cats have only a single artery to supply each lobe: the thyroid artery. In a feline thyroidectomy, the surgeon must avoid blindly ligating the thyroid artery since this vessel also provided numerous branches to adjacent muscles and esophagus. In a bilateral thyroidectomy, the ventral region between lobes should be thoroughly inspected for the common presence of an isthmus. Sometimes, the surgeon may need to extend the incision caudally beyond the 12th tracheal ring level to visualize the gland tissue entirely.(AU)

Effect of obesity on ecocardiographic parameters and vertebral heart size (VHS) in cats / Efeito da obesidade sobre parâmetros ecocardiográficos e VHS em gatos

The objective of this study was to correlate cardiovascular parameters with obesity in adult cats. Forty mixed-breed cats (20 obese and 20 controls) underwent echocardiographic measurements and thoracic radiography to establish a relationship between the obtained data and the body condition score (BCS), body mass index (BMI), and vertebral heart size (VHS). Systolic arterial pressure (SAP) was also studied in 15 obese cats. Compared to the control cats, obese cats presented higher VHS values across several measurements, but among the echocardiographic parameters, only the difference in the left ventricular free wall at diastole was statistically significant. A positive relationship was established between body weight, left ventricular internal diameter at diastole, and left ventricular free wall at diastole. Positive relationships were also observed between BMI and diameter of the aorta, BCS and the left ventricular free wall at diastole, VHS and the left atrium, and the left atrial to aortic root diameter ratio and the left ventricular internal diameter at diastole. SAP was higher in obese cats and presented a positive correlation with body weight. Obesity correlated with an increase in SAP and with some echocardiographic and radiographic cardiac measurements in adult cats. Further studies are needed to better assess the effects of obesity on the cardiovascular system of cats and to reassess the parameters related to body weight and condition.(AU)

O objetivo deste estudo foi correlacionar parâmetros cardiovasculares com obesidade em gatos adultos. Foram utilizados 40 gatos mestiços (20 obesos e 20 controles) avaliados por meio de medidas ecocardiográficas e radiografia de tórax, estabelecendo relação entre os dados obtidos e escore de condição corporal (ECC), índice de massa corporal (IMC) e tamanho do coração vertebral (VHS). A pressão arterial sistólica (PAS) também foi estudada em 15 gatos obesos. Os gatos obesos apresentaram valores mais altos de VHS nas várias medições realizadas em comparação com gatos normais, mas apenas a diferença na medida da parede livre do ventrículo esquerdo na diástole foi estatisticamente significativa nos parâmetros ecocardiográficos. Uma relação positiva foi estabelecida entre o peso corporal, o diâmetro interno do ventrículo esquerdo na diástole e a parede livre do ventrículo esquerdo na diástole. Outras relações positivas estabelecidas, incluem o IMC com o diâmetro da aorta (AO), ECC com parede livre do ventrículo esquerdo na diástole, VHS com o átrio esquerdo (AE), e da relação do átrio esquerdo com o diâmetro da raiz da aorta (AE: Ao) com diâmetro interno do ventrículo esquerdo na diástole. A PAS foi maior em gatos obesos e apresentou correlação positiva com o peso corporal. A obesidade se correlacionou com aumento da PAS, e com aumento em medidas ecocardiográficas e radiográficas em gatos. Mais estudos são necessários para melhor avaliar os efeitos da obesidade no sistema cardiovascular da espécie, e reavaliar os parâmetros relacionados ao peso e condição corporal.(AU)

Evaluation of echocardiographic variables of morphometry and function in horses submitted to minimally invasive partial pericardiotomy / [Avaliação de variáveis ecocardiográficas morfométricas e funcionais em cavalos submetidos à pericardiotomia parcial minimamente invasiva]

This study aimed to evaluate the impact of minimally invasive partial pericardiotomy on echocardiographic variables of morphometry and function in healthy horses. Minimally invasive pericardiotomy was performed in six healthy horses. Echocardiographic evaluation was executed in different moments: prior to the surgical procedure (M0); 24 hours post procedure (M1); 72 hours post procedure (M2) and 28 days post procedure (M3). The following variables were measured: Right ventricular internal diameter in diastole and systole (RVd and RVs), interventricular septum thickness in diastole and systole (IVSd and IVSs), left ventricular internal diameter in diastole and systole (LVd and LVs), left ventricular free wall thickness in diastole and systole (LVFWd and LVFWs), aortic root diameter (Ao) and left atrial diameter (LA). From this data, the following variables were calculated: fractional shortening (FS%), fractional thickening of the interventricular septum (IVS%), fractional thickening of the left ventricular free wall (LVFW%) and the relationship between left atrial and aortic diameters (LA/Ao). After 28 days, a new thoracoscopy was performed for inspection of the thoracic cavity. In M1 and M2 ECO evaluations, a statistically significant change in LVFW and a decrease in RVd, LVd, LVFWs, LA, LVs, FS% and IVS was documented. Pericardiotomy is a promising technique in horses, with minor postoperative complication. The variations in the echocardiographic parameters were transient and did not cause hemodynamic damage to the animals.(AU)

O objetivo do presente estudo foi avaliar o impacto da pericardiotomia parcial minimamente invasiva sobre as variáveis ecocardiográficas morfométricas e funcionais em cavalos, visto que não há nenhum trabalho que tenha avaliado o impacto da pericardiotomia na espécie equina. Foram utilizados seis cavalos hígidos, nos quais se realizou pericardiotomia minimamente invasiva. Em todos eles, foi efetuado exame ecocardiográfico em diferentes momentos: previamente ao procedimento cirúrgico (M0); 24 horas após (M1); 72 horas após (M2) e 28 dias após (M3). Foram mensurados: diâmetro interno do ventrículo direito (VDd e VDs), espessura do septo interventricular (SIVd e SIVs), diâmetro interno do ventrículo esquerdo (VEd e VEs), espessura da parede livre do ventrículo esquerdo (PLVEd e PLVEs), diâmetro interno da aorta (Ao) e diâmetro atrial esquerdo (AE). Foram calculadas as variáveis fração de encurtamento (FEC%), espessamento fracional do septo interventricular (SIV%), espessamento fracional da parede livre do ventrículo esquerdo (PLVE%) e relação entre diâmetro do átrio esquerdo e diâmetro aórtico (AE/Ao). Após 28 dias, realizou-se nova toracoscopia para inspeção da cavidade torácica. Nas avaliações do ECO no M1 e no M2, houve alteração estatisticamente significativa no PLVE em diástole (28±5,5 e 31,7±2, respectivamente) e diminuição dos parâmetros VDd,(30,1±11,6 e 31,7± 10,7) VEd (113,3±21 e 121,7±13,7), PLVEs (42±8,2 e 43,9±2,8), AE (78,5±6,1 e 82,7±4,7), VEs (74,1±16 e 71,5±9,3), FEC (34,4±10,2 e 41,2±5,7) e SIV (27,1±8,7 e 42,3±27,9). A técnica de pericardiotomia empregada mostrou-se promissora em equinos. As variações dos parâmetros ecocardiográficos foram transitórias, não causando prejuízos hemodinâmicos aos animais.(AU)

Characterization of coronary arteries in Giant Anteater (Myrmecophaga tridactyla: Myrmecophagidae) / Caracterização da artéria coronária em tamanduá-bandeira (Myrmecophaga tridactyla: Myrmecophagidae)]

Were used twelve (12) adult anteaters (Myrmecophaga tridactyla), adults, 6 (six) males and 6 (six) females, weighing from 20 to 27.32kg from free life. The thoracic cavity was opened until visualization of the whole heart and lungs and later injection of the coronary vessels. The right coronary artery emerged through a single coronary ostium of the aorta, 50%, emitting the intermediate branch and the subsinuous interventricular branch, had a path directed to the subsurface interventricular groove. In the other 50%, the right coronary artery was not present, showing only its branches, intermediate branch and subsurface interventricular branch with emergence of the aorta. Left coronary artery presented, in 83.33%, origin from the aorta in single ostium, issuing the circumflex and interventricular paraconal branches. In 16.66%, the left coronary artery was not evidenced originating from the aorta, but its branches, circumflex and interventricular paraconal.(AU)

Foram utilizados 12 tamanduás-bandeira (Myrmecophaga tridactyla), adultos, sendo seis machos e seis fêmeas, pesando de 20 a 27,32kg, provenientes de vida livre. Foi realizada abertura da cavidade torácica até a visualização do conjunto coração e pulmões e, posteriormente, injeção dos vasos coronários. A artéria coronária direita emergia, 50% dela, por um único óstio coronário da aorta, emitindo o ramo intermédio e o ramo interventricular subsinuoso; tinha trajeto direcionado ao sulco interventricular subsinuoso. Nos outros 50%, a artéria coronária direita não estava presente, exibindo somente seus ramos, ramo intermédio e ramo interventricular subsinuoso com emergência da aorta. A artéria coronária esquerda apresentou, em 83,33%, origem a partir da aorta em óstio único, emitindo os ramos circunflexo e interventricular paraconal. Em 16,66%, a artéria coronária esquerda não foi evidenciada originando-se da aorta, mas, sim, de seus ramos, circunflexo e interventricular paraconal.(AU)

Characterization of coronary arteries in Giant Anteater (Myrmecophaga tridactyla: Myrmecophagidae) / Caracterização da artéria coronária em tamanduá-bandeira (Myrmecophaga tridactyla: Myrmecophagidae)]

Were used twelve (12) adult anteaters (Myrmecophaga tridactyla), adults, 6 (six) males and 6 (six) females, weighing from 20 to 27.32kg from free life. The thoracic cavity was opened until visualization of the whole heart and lungs and later injection of the coronary vessels. The right coronary artery emerged through a single coronary ostium of the aorta, 50%, emitting the intermediate branch and the subsinuous interventricular branch, had a path directed to the subsurface interventricular groove. In the other 50%, the right coronary artery was not present, showing only its branches, intermediate branch and subsurface interventricular branch with emergence of the aorta. Left coronary artery presented, in 83.33%, origin from the aorta in single ostium, issuing the circumflex and interventricular paraconal branches. In 16.66%, the left coronary artery was not evidenced originating from the aorta, but its branches, circumflex and interventricular paraconal.(AU)

Foram utilizados 12 tamanduás-bandeira (Myrmecophaga tridactyla), adultos, sendo seis machos e seis fêmeas, pesando de 20 a 27,32kg, provenientes de vida livre. Foi realizada abertura da cavidade torácica até a visualização do conjunto coração e pulmões e, posteriormente, injeção dos vasos coronários. A artéria coronária direita emergia, 50% dela, por um único óstio coronário da aorta, emitindo o ramo intermédio e o ramo interventricular subsinuoso; tinha trajeto direcionado ao sulco interventricular subsinuoso. Nos outros 50%, a artéria coronária direita não estava presente, exibindo somente seus ramos, ramo intermédio e ramo interventricular subsinuoso com emergência da aorta. A artéria coronária esquerda apresentou, em 83,33%, origem a partir da aorta em óstio único, emitindo os ramos circunflexo e interventricular paraconal. Em 16,66%, a artéria coronária esquerda não foi evidenciada originando-se da aorta, mas, sim, de seus ramos, circunflexo e interventricular paraconal.(AU)

Correlação entre os achados radiográficos e ecocardiográficos sugestivos de aumento cardíaco em cães: 104 casos / Correlation between radiographic and ecocardiographic findings suggestive of cardiomegaly in 104 dogs

Radiografias torácicas e ecocardiogramas de 104 caninos foram avaliados e correlacionados quanto ao aumento das câmaras cardíacas. Os achados radiográficos foram correlacionados estatisticamente a fim de se estabelecer a acurácia do exame radiográfico na detecção do aumento cardíaco em comparação ao ecocardiográfico - padrão-ouro não invasivo. A correlação entre os achados radiográficos indicativos de aumento cardíaco e os índices ecocardiográficos mostrou-se fraca, significativa somente para VHS versus relação átrio esquerdo/aorta (r=0,3136), eixo curto versus relação átrio esquerdo/aorta (r=0,3813) e eixo curto versus velocidade da onda E (r=0,2021). A acurácia da radiografia na determinação subjetiva de aumento das câmaras cardíacas foi razoável, variando entre 72,1% e 80,8%. Em contrapartida, o VHS apresentou baixa acurácia (50,9%) na detecção de cardiomegalia.(AU)

Thoracic radiographs and echocardiograms of 104 canines were evaluated and correlated regarding cardiac chambers enlargement. The radiographic findings were statistically correlated in order to establish the accuracy of the radiographic examination in the detection of cardiac enlargement in comparison with the echocardiogram - non-invasive gold standard. The correlation between the radiographic findings indicative of cardiac enlargement and echocardiographic indexes was weak, significant only for VHS versus left atrium to aorta ratio (r= 0.3136), short axis versus left atrium to aorta ratio (r= 0, 3813) and short axis versus E wave velocity (r= 0.2021). The radiographic accuracy in the subjective determination of cardiac chamber enlargement was reasonable, ranging from 72.1% to 80.8%. On the other hand, VHS presented low accuracy (50.9%) in the detection of cardiomegaly.(AU)

Correlação entre os achados radiográficos e ecocardiográficos sugestivos de aumento cardíaco em cães: 104 casos / Correlation between radiographic and ecocardiographic findings suggestive of cardiomegaly in 104 dogs

Radiografias torácicas e ecocardiogramas de 104 caninos foram avaliados e correlacionados quanto ao aumento das câmaras cardíacas. Os achados radiográficos foram correlacionados estatisticamente a fim de se estabelecer a acurácia do exame radiográfico na detecção do aumento cardíaco em comparação ao ecocardiográfico - padrão-ouro não invasivo. A correlação entre os achados radiográficos indicativos de aumento cardíaco e os índices ecocardiográficos mostrou-se fraca, significativa somente para VHS versus relação átrio esquerdo/aorta (r=0,3136), eixo curto versus relação átrio esquerdo/aorta (r=0,3813) e eixo curto versus velocidade da onda E (r=0,2021). A acurácia da radiografia na determinação subjetiva de aumento das câmaras cardíacas foi razoável, variando entre 72,1% e 80,8%. Em contrapartida, o VHS apresentou baixa acurácia (50,9%) na detecção de cardiomegalia.(AU)

Thoracic radiographs and echocardiograms of 104 canines were evaluated and correlated regarding cardiac chambers enlargement. The radiographic findings were statistically correlated in order to establish the accuracy of the radiographic examination in the detection of cardiac enlargement in comparison with the echocardiogram - non-invasive gold standard. The correlation between the radiographic findings indicative of cardiac enlargement and echocardiographic indexes was weak, significant only for VHS versus left atrium to aorta ratio (r= 0.3136), short axis versus left atrium to aorta ratio (r= 0, 3813) and short axis versus E wave velocity (r= 0.2021). The radiographic accuracy in the subjective determination of cardiac chamber enlargement was reasonable, ranging from 72.1% to 80.8%. On the other hand, VHS presented low accuracy (50.9%) in the detection of cardiomegaly.(AU)

Use of measurements from thoracic radiographs to identify high mean left atrium pressure in dogs with myxomatous mitral valve disease / Uso de medidas obtidas de radiografias torácicas em cães para identificar aumento da pressão média do átrio esquerdo na doença mixomatosa da valva mitral

The aim of this study was to estimate echocardiographic elevated mean left atrium pressure (MLAP) based on measurements from thoracic radiographs and to determine a cut-off value for each radiographic measurement that suggests a high MLAP. A retrospective cross-sectional study was performed to include cases admitted from January 2015 to December 2016. Thoracic radiographic examinations from 93 dogs with and without a high MLAP were included. Specific measurements were made from thoracic radiographs and compared with echocardiographic variables known to indicate high MLAP. This comparison was used to generate equations that allowed the estimation of echocardiographic surrogates from the radiographic measurements. The values indicative of high MLAP were obtained using a regression curve. Formulas that indicated high MLAP were generated using a number of radiographic measurements. Positive echocardiographic findings of high MLAP were used as the gold standard. These formulas helped to predict high MLAP in myxomatous mitral valve disease (MMVD) without the need for echocardiographic examination. The best formula was left atrium (LA):aorta (Ao)echo = 0.03×(vertebral heart score,VHS) + 0.14×(LA) + 0.27×(LA:caudal vena cava (CVC)rad). Values ≥ 12.2v for VHS, ≥ 4.5cm for LA, ≥ 3.3 for LA:Ao rad and ≥ 3.2 for LA:CVC rad suggested high MLAP. Thus, we propose equations, based on measurements from thoracic radiographs, to identify high MLAP. Simple radiographic thoracic measurements, such as LA:CVCrad, can be used to define overload and a high MLAP in dogs with MMVD.(AU)

O objetivo desse estudo foi estimar o aumento da pressão média do átrio esquerdo (PMAE) na ecocardiografia usando equações baseadas em medidas obtidas das radiografias torácicas e determinar um valor de corte para cada uma dessas variáveis radiográficas. Foi realizado um estudo retrospectivo, observacional e transversal de casos atendidos de janeiro de 2015 a dezembro de 2016. Foram selecionados 93 exames radiográficos do tórax de cães, com ou sem aumento da PMAE. As medidas especificas foram feitas de radiografias torácicas e comparadas com variáveis ecocardiográficas que podem indicar um aumento da PMAE. Foi gerado equações que estimam medidas ecocardiográficas a partir das variáveis radiográficas. Os valores que indicam aumento da PMAE foram obtidos por meio das curvas de regressão. Foram usadas como "padrão ouro" as medidas ecocardiográficas que indicam aumento da PMAE. As fórmulas ajudam a predizer o aumento da PMAE em cães com doença mixomatosa da valva mitral (DMVM) sem a necessidade do exame ecocardiográfico. A melhor fórmula obtida foi: Átrio Esquerdo (AE):Aorta (Ao)eco=0.03×(VHS)+0.14×(AE)+0.27×(AE:Veia Cava Caudal (VCC)rad). Os valores ≥ 12.2 para VHS, ≥ 4.5cm para AE; ≥ 3.3 para AE:Ao rad e ≥ 3.2 para AE:VCC rad sugerem um aumento da PMAE. Essas equações, a partir de medidas radiográficas torácicas, auxilia na identificação do aumento da PMAE. Algumas medidas radiográficas simples, como a AE:VCC rad pode ser usada para definir sobrecarga e aumento da PMAE em cães com DMVM.(AU)

Duplicidad de la vena renal derecha en Didelphis aurita (Didelphimorphia: Didelphidae): reporte de un caso / Double right renal vein in Didelphis aurita (Didelphimorphia: Didelphidae): case report

El Didelphis aurita, conocido como comadreja de orejas negras, es un marsupial con amplia distribución en la América del Sur, frecuente tanto en los ambientes silvestres como antrópicos debido a su gran plasticidad ecológica. Animales de esta especie son comúnmente atendidos en la medicina de animales silvestres y vienen siendo empleados como modelos experimentales alternativos a especies tradicionales. El objetivo de ese trabajo fue relatar la ocurrencia de un caso de vena renal doble en un espécimen adulto, macho, de D. aurita. Para eso, se ha disecado un cadáver fijado y conservado en solución de formaldehído 10%, previamente inyectado con látex de color azul por la porción torácica de la arteria aorta para facilitar la disección. El espécimen poseía dos venas renales derechas, una vena craneal (11,3 mm) y otra caudal (10,0 mm) que drenaban distintamente para una vena cava caudal. La vena renal izquierda y las arterias renales eran únicas. Aunque la duplicidad de la vena renal es reportada en otras especies como perros, gatos y felideos silvestres, este es el primer relato en el género Didelphis. El conocimiento de las variaciones anatómicas vasculares es relevante para la correcta ejecución de procedimientos veterinarios y en la interpretación de hallazgos experimentales en relación con el sistema urogenital.(AU)

Didelphis aurita, known as black eared oposum, is a marsupial widely distributed in South America, frequently seen in both wild and anthropogenic environments due to its great ecological plasticity. This species is commonly treated in wildlife veterinary services and has been used as alternative experimental models instead of conventional species. The aim of this report was to describe a case of double renal vein in a male, adult, specimen of D. aurita. In order to make the dissection easier, the cadaver was fixed and preserved in 10 % formaldehyde solution, and previously injected with latex in blue color by the thoracic aorta to facilitate dissection. The specimen had two right renal veins, one cranial (11.3 mm) and other caudal (10.0 mm) that drained distinctly for caudal vena cava. The left renal vein and the renal arteries were single. Although double renal vein has been reported in other species, such as dogs, cats and wild felids, this is the first mention in the genus Didelphis. The knowledge of the vascular anatomical variations is relevant for the correct execution of veterinary procedures and the interpretation of experimental findings in urogenital system research.(AU)

Ramos do arco aórtico e da aorta torácica em bicho-preguiça (Bradypus variegatus) / Branches of the aortic arch and thoracic aorta of the sloth (Bradypus variegatus)

As preguiças são mamíferos arborícolas, bem específicos quanto aos hábitos e à morfofisiologia. Essa condição faz delas ainda mais vulneráveis aos impactos ambientais. Com o objetivo de fornecer informações que auxiliem na clínica médico-cirúrgica desses Xenarthras, realizou-se um estudo do arco aórtico e da artéria aorta torácica, a fim de se identificarem seus principais ramos. Foram utilizados 10 animais da espécie Bradypus variegatus, sendo uma fêmea e três machos submetidos a dissecação, por meio da qual foram obtidas medidas de diâmetro e comprimento dos vasos, enquanto três fêmeas e três machos destinaram-se à técnica de radiografia digital com contraste. Constatou-se uma sintopia uniforme do arco, bem como da porção descendente da artéria aorta no tórax. No entanto, a topografia difere consideravelmente. Com base nos ramos, percebeu-se, independentemente do sexo, uma maior variação naqueles originados do arco e dos que emergem da artéria aorta torácica e irrigam estruturas medianas e do antímero direito do tórax. Foram obtidos valores maiores para o diâmetro das artérias na fêmea do que nos machos e, para o comprimento da artéria aorta torácica, foram encontrados valores correspondentes em ambos. Toda essa variação dos bradipodídeos apresenta diferenças em relação a outros mamíferos.(AU)

Sloths are arboreal mammals, very specific, regarding their habits and morphology. This condition makes them even more vulnerable to environmental impacts. In order to provide information to assist in the medical and surgical assistance to these Xenarthras, a study of the aortic arch and thoracic portion of the descending aorta was carried out with the purpose of identify its main branches. Ten animals of the Bradypus variegatus species were used. One female and three males were submitted to dissection, where measurements of vessel diameter and length were obtained, while three females and three males were submitted to the digital contrast x-ray technique. There was a uniform syntopy of the arch, as well as of the descending portion of the aorta in the thorax. However, the topography differs considerably. Based on the branches, regardless of gender, a greater variation was observed in those originating from the arch, and those that emerge from the thoracic aorta and irrigate medial structures and the right antimere of the thorax. Greater values were obtained for the diameter of the arteries in the female than in the males and corresponding values for the length of the thoracic aorta in both. All this variation is possibly related to the adaptive processes of Bradipodidae over time.(AU)

Ramos do arco aórtico e da aorta torácica em bicho-preguiça (Bradypus variegatus) / Branches of the aortic arch and thoracic aorta of the sloth (Bradypus variegatus)

As preguiças são mamíferos arborícolas, bem específicos quanto aos hábitos e à morfofisiologia. Essa condição faz delas ainda mais vulneráveis aos impactos ambientais. Com o objetivo de fornecer informações que auxiliem na clínica médico-cirúrgica desses Xenarthras, realizou-se um estudo do arco aórtico e da artéria aorta torácica, a fim de se identificarem seus principais ramos. Foram utilizados 10 animais da espécie Bradypus variegatus, sendo uma fêmea e três machos submetidos a dissecação, por meio da qual foram obtidas medidas de diâmetro e comprimento dos vasos, enquanto três fêmeas e três machos destinaram-se à técnica de radiografia digital com contraste. Constatou-se uma sintopia uniforme do arco, bem como da porção descendente da artéria aorta no tórax. No entanto, a topografia difere consideravelmente. Com base nos ramos, percebeu-se, independentemente do sexo, uma maior variação naqueles originados do arco e dos que emergem da artéria aorta torácica e irrigam estruturas medianas e do antímero direito do tórax. Foram obtidos valores maiores para o diâmetro das artérias na fêmea do que nos machos e, para o comprimento da artéria aorta torácica, foram encontrados valores correspondentes em ambos. Toda essa variação dos bradipodídeos apresenta diferenças em relação a outros mamíferos.(AU)

Sloths are arboreal mammals, very specific, regarding their habits and morphology. This condition makes them even more vulnerable to environmental impacts. In order to provide information to assist in the medical and surgical assistance to these Xenarthras, a study of the aortic arch and thoracic portion of the descending aorta was carried out with the purpose of identify its main branches. Ten animals of the Bradypus variegatus species were used. One female and three males were submitted to dissection, where measurements of vessel diameter and length were obtained, while three females and three males were submitted to the digital contrast x-ray technique. There was a uniform syntopy of the arch, as well as of the descending portion of the aorta in the thorax. However, the topography differs considerably. Based on the branches, regardless of gender, a greater variation was observed in those originating from the arch, and those that emerge from the thoracic aorta and irrigate medial structures and the right antimere of the thorax. Greater values were obtained for the diameter of the arteries in the female than in the males and corresponding values for the length of the thoracic aorta in both. All this variation is possibly related to the adaptive processes of Bradipodidae over time.(AU)

Artérias colaterais do arco aórtico do gerbil (Meriones unguiculatus) / Collateral arteries of the aortic arch in mongolian gerbil (meriones unguiculatus)

Background: Gerbils (Meriones unguiculatus) are rodents belonging to the Muridae family. Recently, breeding of this species as pets has increased significantly. Animal models are being investigated to study diseases related to the human aortic arch. Despite the importance of the aortic arch in maintaining homeostasis, there is limited data available regarding its morphology in gerbils. This study was performed with the objective of describing the collateral branches of the aortic arch in this animal to establish a standard model and thus contribute to future research on cardiovascular diseases in humans.Materials, Methods & Results: This study used 20 male specimens from previous studies that were frozen and stored at the Laboratory of Veterinary Anatomy of the Federal Rural University of the Semi-Arid Region. After thawing the animals, the thoracic cavity was opened for aortic cannulation. The vascular system was washed using saline solution and Neoprene latex stained with red pigment was injected. Subsequently, the animals were fixed in 10% formaldehyde and were dissected and analyzed 72 h later. The arrangement of the collateral branches of the aortic arch in gerbils was analyzed in all animals. The brachiocephalic trunk, the left common carotid, and the left subclavian artery were observed to originate as collateral branches. The brachiocephalic trunk bifurcated into the right common carotid and the right subclavian arteries. The right and the left subclavian arteries branched into the vertebral artery, the internal thoracic artery, the superficial cervical artery, the costocervical trunk, and the axillary artery.[...]

Artérias colaterais do arco aórtico do gerbil (Meriones unguiculatus) / Collateral arteries of the aortic arch in mongolian gerbil (meriones unguiculatus)

Background: Gerbils (Meriones unguiculatus) are rodents belonging to the Muridae family. Recently, breeding of this species as pets has increased significantly. Animal models are being investigated to study diseases related to the human aortic arch. Despite the importance of the aortic arch in maintaining homeostasis, there is limited data available regarding its morphology in gerbils. This study was performed with the objective of describing the collateral branches of the aortic arch in this animal to establish a standard model and thus contribute to future research on cardiovascular diseases in humans.Materials, Methods & Results: This study used 20 male specimens from previous studies that were frozen and stored at the Laboratory of Veterinary Anatomy of the Federal Rural University of the Semi-Arid Region. After thawing the animals, the thoracic cavity was opened for aortic cannulation. The vascular system was washed using saline solution and Neoprene latex stained with red pigment was injected. Subsequently, the animals were fixed in 10% formaldehyde and were dissected and analyzed 72 h later. The arrangement of the collateral branches of the aortic arch in gerbils was analyzed in all animals. The brachiocephalic trunk, the left common carotid, and the left subclavian artery were observed to originate as collateral branches. The brachiocephalic trunk bifurcated into the right common carotid and the right subclavian arteries. The right and the left subclavian arteries branched into the vertebral artery, the internal thoracic artery, the superficial cervical artery, the costocervical trunk, and the axillary artery.[...](AU)

Anatomical and imagistic aspects of the aortic arch in Chinchilla lanigera

Background: The investigation on the cardiocirculatory system in chinchilla has become increasingly important due to the use of the species in experimental medicine (toxicology, pathology, parasitology etc.). Even though initially this species was regarded with a strict economic interest, in the last period, chinchillas have become an increasingly-encountered patient in veterinary clinics and hospitals. Another aspect is the use of the species in medical research, as experimental model or in parasitology. The present study tackles a combined anatomical and radiological (angiographical) study to accurately describe the vascular anatomy of the initial part of the aortic arch (Arcus aortae).Materials, Methods & Results: The anatomical distribution of collaterals detached from arcus aorticus (brachiocephalic trunk and subclavian arteries) are highlighted in this paper. To do that, the classical stratigraphic anatomical investigation, followed by the radiological study with the help of the contrast substance injected into the vascular bed were used in combination. Several Chinchilla lanigera female carcasses, obtained from a private commercial farming unit in Cluj county, Romania were used for this study. Ten carcasses were used for the anatomical study, being injected into the vascular bed with a mixture of latex and acrylic dye, fixated into formaldehyde 5% and later dissected, while the other ten carcasses were injected at the level of the aortic arch with Visipaque 320 contrast substance and subjected to the angiographical procedure.The anatomical investigation was carried after an initial 5 day-fixation period, while the angiographic procedure was initiated using the TEMCO Grx-01 device and the Veterinary Digital Imaging System® as digital imaging processing software. This combined study shows the differential mode of emergence of the subclavian and carotid arteries in this species.[...]

Anatomical and imagistic aspects of the aortic arch in Chinchilla lanigera

Background: The investigation on the cardiocirculatory system in chinchilla has become increasingly important due to the use of the species in experimental medicine (toxicology, pathology, parasitology etc.). Even though initially this species was regarded with a strict economic interest, in the last period, chinchillas have become an increasingly-encountered patient in veterinary clinics and hospitals. Another aspect is the use of the species in medical research, as experimental model or in parasitology. The present study tackles a combined anatomical and radiological (angiographical) study to accurately describe the vascular anatomy of the initial part of the aortic arch (Arcus aortae).Materials, Methods & Results: The anatomical distribution of collaterals detached from arcus aorticus (brachiocephalic trunk and subclavian arteries) are highlighted in this paper. To do that, the classical stratigraphic anatomical investigation, followed by the radiological study with the help of the contrast substance injected into the vascular bed were used in combination. Several Chinchilla lanigera female carcasses, obtained from a private commercial farming unit in Cluj county, Romania were used for this study. Ten carcasses were used for the anatomical study, being injected into the vascular bed with a mixture of latex and acrylic dye, fixated into formaldehyde 5% and later dissected, while the other ten carcasses were injected at the level of the aortic arch with Visipaque 320 contrast substance and subjected to the angiographical procedure.The anatomical investigation was carried after an initial 5 day-fixation period, while the angiographic procedure was initiated using the TEMCO Grx-01 device and the Veterinary Digital Imaging System® as digital imaging processing software. This combined study shows the differential mode of emergence of the subclavian and carotid arteries in this species.[...](AU)

Barium sulphate aspiration pneumonia in a cat with megaesophagus and dextroposition of the aortic arch: case report / Pneumonia aspirativa por sulfato de barrio em gato com megaesôfago e destroposição de arco da aorta: relato de caso

A six-month-old female cat suffered aspiration of an abundant amount of barium sulfate during a radiographic procedure for the diagnosis of megaesophagus. Latero-lateral contrast radiography revealed severe dilation of the thoracic esophagus cranial to the base of the heart. Persistence of the right aortic arch was suspected and later confirmed during corrective surgery. Accumulation of barium sulfate, used as a contrast agent, was clearly observed in the lumen of the bronchi, bronchioles, and alveoli in the radiographic image. Days after the surgery, the animal developed severe respiratory distress, which resulted in death. Cytology results and histology analysis using polarized light demonstrated that the lumen of bronchi, bronchioles, and alveoli exhibited evident histiocytic infiltration with cytoplasm filled by abundant amorphous refractive granular material consistent with barium sulfate. In this report, we describe the anatomical, cytological, histopathological (using polarized light), and x-ray findings of a case of barium sulfate aspiration pneumonia in a cat resulting from the use of this contrast medium for the diagnosis of megaesophagus secondary to persistent right aortic arch.(AU)

Uma gata de seis meses aspirou grande quantidade de sulfato de bário durante procedimento radiográfico para diagnóstico de megaesôfago. Contraste radiográfico látero-lateral revelou dilatação de esôfago torácico até a base do coração. Persistência do arco aórtico direito foi confirmada durante cirurgia corretiva. Acúmulo de sulfato de bário, utilizado como agente de contraste, foi observado no lúmen de brônquios, bronquíolos e alvéolos à imagem radiográfica. Dias após a cirurgia o animal desenvolveu insuficiência respiratória grave e evoluiu para óbito. Resultado de citologia e histologia utilizado luz polarizada demonstrou que lúmen de brônquios, bronquíolos e alvéolos mostraram infiltração histológica com citoplasma cheio de material refratário granular amorfo compatível com sulfato de bário. Nesse relatório, descrevemos achados anatômicos, citológicos, histopatológicos e radiográficos de um caso de pneumonia aspirativa em gata resultante do uso desse meio de contraste para diagnóstico de megaesôfago secundário a persistência do arco aórtico direito.(AU)