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Sixty adrenals of 30 dogs were evaluated, divided into three groups, according to age: Group 1 = healthy youngsters (10 animals) - from one to three years old; Group 2 = healthy adults (10 animals) - four to nine years old; and Group 3 = healthy senile animals (10 animals) - older than ten years old. The experimental design was randomized, with a significance of 5%. There was a significant difference (P=0.017) in length between young and elderly dogs. The thickness of the cranial pole showed a significant difference (P=0.001) between young and adults when compared with the elderly group. The thickness of the caudal pole was not significant for adults when compared to elderly and young people. Between elderly and young, the difference was significant (P=0.024). The mean speeds differed between the groups of young and adult animals regarding the left adrenal and its cranial pole. The hardness pattern and its measurements can vary in healthy dogs of different ages, being more rigid in the cranial pole of the left adrenal in young dogs.

Foram avaliadas 60 adrenais de 30 cães, divididos em três grupos, de acordo com a idade: grupo 1 = jovens saudáveis (10 animais) - de um a três anos de vida; grupo 2 = adultos saudáveis (10 animais) - de quatro a nove anos de vida; e grupo 3 = senis saudáveis (10 animais) - a partir de 10 anos de vida. O delineamento experimental foi ao acaso, com significância de 5%. No comprimento, houve diferença significativa (P=0,017) entre os cães jovens e os idosos. A espessura do polo cranial apresentou diferença significativa (P=0,001) entre jovens e adultos quando comparados com o grupo de idosos. A espessura do polo caudal não foi significativa para adultos quando comparadas com idosos e jovens. Entre idosos e jovens, a diferença foi significativa (P=0,024). As médias das velocidades diferiram entre os grupos de animais jovens e adultos quanto à adrenal esquerda e a seu polo cranial. O padrão de dureza e suas medidas podem variar em cães saudáveis de diferentes idades, sendo mais rígidas no polo cranial da adrenal esquerda de cães jovens.

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A 20-year-old, sexually intact male Dutch Warmblood horse was presented with a 5-day history of difficulty moving and non-flexion of the right pelvic limb, followed by subcutaneous swelling and permanent lateral decubitus. Despite attempts at palliative care, the horse was euthanized after clinical worsening and lack of treatment response. The main gross finding was a soft, red-to-black, lobulated mass involving the right semitendinosus, semimembranosus, and biceps femoris muscles. Soft, red nodules were also seen in all pulmonary lobes and adrenal glands. Histology revealed neoplastic proliferation of malignant polygonal cells, occasionally arranged in irregular anastomosing vascular channels filled with erythrocytes. Neoplastic cells were immunoreactive for factor VIII-related antigen, confirming the blood vascular origin. A final diagnosis of epithelioid hemangiosarcoma was made. These findings reinforced the inclusion of hemangiosarcoma as a differential diagnosis of equine muscular lesions and highlighted the histological features of the epithelioid hemangiosarcoma subtype.

Um cavalo macho não castrado, Sela Holandesa, de 20 anos de idade apresentou histórico de dificuldade de movimentação e não flexão do membro pélvico direito, seguido por inchaço subcutâneo e decúbito lateral permanente. Apesar das tentativas de cuidados paliativos, o cavalo foi eutanasiado após piora clínica e falta de resposta ao tratamento. O principal achado macroscópico foi uma massa macia, vermelha a preta e lobulada envolvendo os músculos semitendinoso, semimembranoso e bíceps femoral direito. Nódulos macios e vermelhos também foram observados nos lobos pulmonares e adrenais. A histologia revelou proliferação neoplásica de células poligonais malignas, ocasionalmente arranjadas em estruturas vasculares irregulares preenchidas por eritrócitos. As células neoplásicas foram imunorreativas para antígeno relacionado ao fator VIII, confirmando a origem vascular sanguínea. Portanto, foi realizado o diagnóstico final de hemangiossarcoma epitelioide intramuscular. Esses achados reforçaram a inclusão do hemangiossarcoma como diagnóstico diferencial das lesões musculares equinas e destacaram as características histológicas do subtipo hemangiossarcoma epitelioide.

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Clinical History: A 9-year-old intact male Rottweiler with clinically suspected prostatic mass had difficulty climbing stairs. The dog was also favoring the left hind limb. The owners mentioned that he had started to act quieter and exhibit declining appetite with weight loss over the course of 2 weeks, in addition to having hematuria. Numerous pulmonary nodules and an abdominal mass with displaced urinary bladder and colon were evident on radiographs. In addition, lytic bone, with cortical bone disruption, was identified in the mid-diaphyseal region of the left femur. Marked lymphadenomegaly of the left popliteal and inguinal nodes was identified on physical examination. A year prior to the onset of these clinical signs, the patient had undergone amputation of digit 5 of its left hind limb due to a severely ulcerated lesion, diagnosed histologically as a subungual malignant neoplasm. An oral tumor between teeth 206 and 207 was also removed; however, this mass was not evaluated histologically.(AU)

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Spirorchidiasis is one of the most common diseases in green turtles. Eggs and the adult form of trematodes are mainly found in the heart, liver, lung, spleen, and gastrointestinal tract. The present study aimed to describe the pathological aspects of Spirorchiidae trematode infection in green turtles (Chelonia mydas) in the Campos Basin, Rio de Janeiro. The current study was based on the necropsy of 99 green turtles (Chelonia mydas, Chelonidae) from April to December 2021. Epidemiological data were obtained from the Aquatic Biota Monitoring Information System (SIMBA). A histopathological examination was performed at the "Setor de Anatomia Patológica" (SAP) from "Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro" (UFRuralRJ). Tissue fragments (buccal papilla, esophagus, trachea, lung, heart, kidney, bladder, stomach, liver, spleen, intestines, gonads, adrenal, thyroid, pancreas, salt glands, muscle, and skin) were sampled for histological examination. The green turtles had lesions compatible with parasitic infection in 89% (88/99) cases. Out of 88 turtles, 87 were juveniles (99%), 75% (66/88) were females, and 25% (22/88) were males. Adult parasites and their eggs were found to cause granulomatous tissue reactions in 14% (12/88) of turtles. Egg-associated granulomatous inflammation was found in 86% (76/88) of the turtles. The organs with the highest number of egg-associated granulomas in order of occurrence were: the spleen, small intestine, adrenal gland, pancreas, and lungs. The adult trematodes were observed in histological lesions in order of occurrence, mainly in the esophagus, stomach, and small intestine. Out of the total number of turtles parasitized, 33% (29/88) of deaths occurred due to multiple causes such as fractures, interaction with fishing, predation, and fibropapillomas. The other 67% (59/88) presented multisystemic granulomatous disease caused by Spirorchiidae infection as a cause of death. Evidence is presented that spirorchidiasis is highly prevalent in young green turtles, is responsible for extensive chronic lesions, and responsible for significant debilitation and mortality.

A espirorquidíase é uma das doenças mais comuns em tartarugas verdes. Os ovos e a forma adulta dos trematódeos são encontrados principalmente no coração, fígado, pulmão, baço e trato gastrointestinal. O objetivo do presente estudo foi descrever os aspectos patológicos da infecção por trematódeos Spirorchiidae em tartarugas verdes (Chelonia mydas) na Bacia de Campos, Rio de Janeiro. O presente trabalho foi baseado na necropsia de 99 tartarugas verdes (Chelonia mydas, Chelonidae) no período de abril a dezembro de 2021. Os dados epidemiológicos foram obtidos do Sistema de Informação de Monitoramento da Biota Aquática (SIMBA). Realizou-se exame histopatológico no Setor de anatomia Patológica (SAP) da Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro (UFRuralRJ). Os fragmentos de tecidos (papila bucal, esôfago, traqueia, pulmão, coração, rim, bexiga, estômago, fígado, baço, intestinos, gônadas, adrenal, tireoides, pâncreas, glândulas de sal, músculo e pele) foram coletados e fixados em formalina a 10% tamponada, processados rotineiramente para exame histológico. Em 89% (88/99) dos casos, as tartarugas-verdes apresentaram lesões compatíveis com infecção parasitária. Das 88 tartarugas, 87 eram jovens (99%), 75% (66/88) correspondiam a fêmeas, 25% (22/88) a machos. Em 14% (12/88) das tartarugas foram encontrados parasitas adultos e seus ovos causando inflamação granulomatosa. Em 86,4% (76/88) das tartarugas foram encontradas lesões granulomatosas associadas aos ovos dos trematódeos. Os órgãos com maior quantidade de granulomas associados a ovos foram: baço, intestino delgado, adrenal, pâncreas e pulmões. Trematódeos adultos foram principalmente observados nas lesões histológicas, em ordem de ocorrência, no esôfago, estômago e intestino delgado. Do total de tartarugas parasitadas, 33% (29/88) das mortes ocorreram em consequência de múltiplas causas como fraturas, interação com pesca, predação e fibropapilomas. As outras 67% (59/88) apresentaram como causa de morte a doença granulomatosa multissistêmica causada pela infecção por trematódeo da família Spirorchiidae. São apresentadas evidências de que a espiroquidiase é altamente prevalente em tartarugas verdes jovens no Rio de Janeiro, responsável por extensas lesões crônicas, quadro clínico de debilidade e mortalidade significativas.

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O hipoadrenocorticismo canino é uma endocrinopatia caracterizada, na sua forma mais comum, pela deficiência de glicocorticoides e mineralocorticoides. Pacientes não tratados podem desenvolver a forma aguda da doença (crise addisoniana), apresentação grave com risco de óbito, caso não sejam realizadas as intervenções adequadas. Entre as alterações apresentadas estão: distúrbios eletrolíticos (como hiponatremia, hipercalemia, hiperfosfatemia e hipercalcemia), desequilíbrio hídrico (desidratação e choque hipovolêmico) e acidobásico. Fluidoterapia intravenosa adequada é a base do manejo inicial da crise addisoniana, que irá reestabelecer o volume intravascular e hidratação, reduzindo a concentração sérica de fósforo e potássio, a acidose lática, a azotemia pré-renal e a acidose metabólica. A reposição de glicocorticoides também contribui para a normalização dessas alterações. Entre as possíveis complicações do tratamento está a mielinólise pontina, decorrente de aumento rápido na concentração sérica de sódio. Diante disso, o conhecimento dos distúrbios associados à essa endocrinopatia auxilia na suspeição e manejo adequado da doença.(AU)

Canine hypoadrenocorticism is an endocrinopathy characterized, in its most common form, by glucocorticoid and mineralocorticoid deficiency, often resulting from immune-mediated destruction of the adrenal glands. Untreated patients may develop the acute form of the disease (Addisonian crisis), a severe presentation with a risk of death if appropriate interventions are not performed. Among the changes presented are: electrolyte disorders (such as hyponatremia, hyperkalemia, hyperphosphatemia and hypercalcemia), water imbalance (dehydration and hypovolemic shock) and acid-base disorder. Adequate intravenous fluid therapy is the basis for the initial management of Addisonian crisis, which will restore intravascular volume and hydration, reducing serum phosphorus and potassium concentrations, lactic acidosis, pre-renal azotemia and metabolic acidosis. Glucocorticoid replacement also contributes to the normalization of these changes. Among the possible complications of the treatment is pontine myelinolysis, resulting from a rapid increase in serum sodium concentration. In view of this, knowledge of the disorders associated with this endocrinopathy helps in the suspicion and adequate management of the disease.(AU)

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Pheochromocytoma is a functional neoplasm that produces catecholamines, located in the medullary region of the adrenal glands. As it presents nonspeciÀ c signs, scarcity of diagnostic tools and is still associated with concomitant diseases, it may not be easily considered as a differential condition among veterinarians. This is an uncommon neoplasm that usually affects dogs, with medium to advanced age and without racial predilection, being very rare in cats. Clinical manifestations vary according to the effects of catecholamines and/or circulatory impairment due to the local invasion of the tumor into adjacent structures. In this way, systemic arterial hypertension and consequences in target organs such as the central nervous system and kidneys can be observed, in addition to ocular changes. The deÀ nitive diagnosis is given by the histopathological analysis of the excised adrenal gland. However, the increase in the serum concentration of catecholamine metabolites may contribute to the conÀ rmation of the disease. Adrenalectomy is the therapy of choice, but if this is not feasible, α and ß adrenergic blocking drugs should be used. The prognosis varies from reserved to favorable, based on surgical success and the presence of metastases.(AU)

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The aim of this article is to describe a case of adrenocortical neoplasm with manifestation of hyperadrenocorticism. Adrenocortical tumors originate from different types of cells and present varied clinical manifestations, which can be functional or non-functional. Adenocarcinomas are autonomous and functional in most cases, leading to excessive secretion of glucocorticoids, regardless of pituitary control. They corroborate the occurrence of hyperadrenocorticism (HAC) due to interference in the synthesis of cortisol. Clinical signs can be observed, as polyuria, compensatory polydipsia, polyphagia, blood pressure alterations, cardiac, renal and endocrine dysfunctions, among others. Diagnosis can be made in various ways, such as urinary cortisol measurements, adrenocorticotropic hormone stimulation, low-dose dexamethasone suppression tests, and imaging tests and histopathology. This article reports the case of a 13-year-old mixed-breed female dog with signs of polyuria and polydpsia. After discarding the initial diagnoses (diabetes mellitus and/or renal alterations), HAC was suspected, with further tests being performed. The test results showed an increase in the adrenal region, and adrenalectomy and hormone replacement with trilostane were recommended. The diagnosis of HAC was confirmed by histopathology as HAC secondary to adrenal gland adenocarcinoma. The patient also developed diabetes mellitus during postoperative treatment with prednisone, which made it necessary to discontinue the medication.

O objetivo deste artigo é descrever um caso de neoplasia adrenocortical com manifestação de hiperadrenocorticismo. Tumores adrenocorticais são originados de diversos tipos de células e apresentam manifestação clínica variada, podendo ser funcionais ou não funcionais. Os adenocarcinomas são autônomos e funciona na maioria dos casos, levando a secreção excessiva de glicocorticóides, independente do controle da hipófise. Eles corroboram com a ocorrência de hiperadrenocorticismo (HAC) por interferência na síntese de cortisol. Os sinais clínicos observados podem ser poliúria, polidipsia compensatória, polifagia, alterações pressóricas, disfunções cardíacas, renais e endócrinas, entre outros. Estas manifestações clínicas podem se apresentar de forma isolada ou associada. O diagnóstico pode ser obtido de diversas formas, como dosagens de cortisol urinário, estimulação de hormônio adrenocorticotrópico, testes de supressão com baixa dose de dexametasona e por testes de imagem. No entanto, o diagnóstico definitivo baseia-se no uso da histopatologia. Este artigo relata o caso de uma fêmea sem raça definida, de 13 anos de idade, com sinais de poliúria e polidpsia. Após o descarte dos diagnósticos iniciais (diabetes mellitus e/ou alterações renais). suspeitou-se de HAC, com a realização de novos exames. Os resultados dos exames evidenciaram aumento da região adrenal, sendo recomendada a adrenalectomia e reposição hormonal com trilostano. O diagnóstico de HAC foi confirmado pela histopatologia como sendo HAC secundário a adenocarcinoma de glândula adrenal. A paciente desenvolveu ainda um quadro de diabetes mellitus durante o tratamento com prednisona no pós-operatório, sendo necessário interromper a medicação.

El objetivo de este artículo es describir un caso de neoplasia adrenocortical con manifestación de hiperadrenocorticismo. Los tumores adrenocorticales se originan a partir de diferentes tipos de células y presentan una variada manifestación clínica, que puede ser funcionante o no funcionante. Los adenocarcinomas son autónomos y funcionales en la mayoría de los casos, lo que lleva a una secreción excesiva de glucocorticoides, independientemente del control pituitario. Corroboran la aparición de hiperadrenocorticismo (HAC) al interferir con la síntesis de cortisol. Los signos clínicos observados pueden ser poliuria, polidipsia compensatoria, polifagia, alteraciones de la presión arterial, disfunciones cardíacas, renales y endocrinas, entre otras. Estas manifestaciones clínicas pueden presentarse de forma aislada o en asociación. El diagnóstico se puede obtener de varias maneras, como mediciones de cortisol urinario, estimulación con hormona adrenocorticotrópica, pruebas de supresión con dosis bajas de dexametasona y pruebas de imagen. Sin embargo, el diagnóstico definitivo se basa en el uso de la histopatología. Este artículo reporta el caso de una perra mestiza de 13 años con signos de poliuria y polidipsia. Tras descartar los diagnósticos iniciales (diabetes mellitus y/o alteraciones renales), se sospechó HAC, realizándose nuevas pruebas. Los resultados de los exámenes mostraron un aumento en la región suprarrenal, por lo que se recomendó adrenalectomía y reemplazo hormonal con trilostano. El diagnóstico de CAH se confirmó por histopatología como CAH secundaria a adenocarcinoma de la glándula suprarrenal. La paciente también desarrolló diabetes mellitus durante el tratamiento con prednisona en el postoperatorio, siendo necesario suspender la medicación.

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

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Hyperadrenocorticism is a relatively common endocrine disease affecting the adrenal glands of domestic dogs. However, there are few reports of this disease in wild canids. A crab-eating fox (Cerdocyon thous) kept under human care was diagnosed with the disease after detection of conformational abnormalities in the adrenal glands visualized by ultrasonography, a cortisol suppression test after low-dose dexamethasone, and the detection of proteinuria and bacteria in urinalysis. After the diagnosis, the patient was treated with trilostane with a satisfactory clinical response. This report aims to report the sonographic and laboratory findings of hyperadrenocorticism and its treatment in a specimen of the species.

O hiperadrenocorticismo é uma doença endócrina que acomete as glândulas adrenais relativamente comum em cães domésticos. Porém, em canídeos selvagens, poucos são os relatos descritos dessa enfermidade. Um exemplar de cachorro-do-mato (Cerdocyon thous), mantido sob cuidados humanos, foi diagnosticado com a doença após detecção de anormalidades conformacionais em glândulas adrenais visibilizadas via ultrassonografia, teste de supressão de cortisol após uso de baixa dose de dexametasona, além de detecção de proteinúria e bactérias em urinálise. Após o diagnóstico, instituiu-se tratamento medicamentoso a base de trilostano com resposta clínica satisfatória. Este relato objetiva reportar os achados ultrassonográficos e laboratoriais de hiperadrenocosticismo e seu tratamento em um exemplar da espécie.

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Background: Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is a common cutaneous neoplasm in horses, which mainly affects the external genitalia, oral cavity, and periocular region. The development of SCC metastases is rare in these animals, and the most common occurrence is a marked local infiltration. Exposure to ultraviolet rays and skin depigmentation are the main etiological factors of SCC. Definitive diagnosis of the neoplasm is performed through histological examination of lesions. The present report describes the clinical, anatomopathological, and immunohistochemical (IHC) aspects of a case of metastatic SCC, with the vulva as the primary site in a mare. Case: A 17-year-old mare, mixed breed, was referred to the Veterinary Hospital of the Universidade de Passo Fundo (UPF), with history of areas of depigmented skin (pinto coat), and clinical history of anorexia, frequent episodes of colic, and recumbency. During clinical evaluation, heart rate (68 bpm), rectal temperature (38.4ºC), and respiratory rate (48 mpm) were elevated, and the oral mucosa was pale. The mare also had an ulcerated tumor mass involving the vulva, which extended to the inguinal region and involved the mammary gland. A cytological aspirate of the vulvar tumor was performed, in which no neoplastic cells were found. Next, a biopsy of 2 distinct areas of the vulva was performed. The material was sent for anatomopathological examination, which showed markedly pleomorphic malignant squamous cells, with individual keratinization and high mitotic index, organized in trabeculae with rare keratin pearl-like formations. The exam allowed the diagnosis of SCC Grade II. Due to the poor prognosis and high cost of treatment, the owner consented to euthanasia and necropsy examination. During necropsy, the vulvar tumor mass was grayish, firm to hard, infiltrative, and had friable areas. Tumor foci suggestive of metastasis were also observed in inguinal, mesenteric, mediastinal and renal lymph nodes, adrenal glands, lung, pericardium, medullary canal, intercostal muscles, right 15th rib, and tissue surrounding the azygos vein. Samples from all organs were collected for anatomopathological examination. Diagnosis of metastatic vulvar SCC was confirmed through histological and IHC studies, which evaluated the expression of cytokeratins (AE1/ AE3), as well as the proliferative activity of neoplastic cells through the PCNA marker. Discussion: The diagnosis of metastatic SCC was obtained through the observed clinical, necroscopic, histological, and IHC characteristics. This neoplasm usually appears in depigmented regions exposed to ultraviolet light, and older animals are more likely to be affected. The mare in the present case had areas of depigmented skin (pinto coat). The animal was kept in a paddock outdoor and exposed to constant solar radiation. Although rare in horses, manifestation of anorexia, progressive weight loss, and frequent colic episodes and recumbency may be closely related to the multiple sites of metastasis in the present case. The main histological findings of the neoplasm were the dense proliferation of malignant squamous cells with individual keratinization, arranged in a trabecular pattern and with rare formations of keratin pearls, in line with previous studies. During IHC evaluation, the neoplastic cells showed expression of cytokeratins (AE1/AE3), as well as high proliferative activity evidenced by the PCNA marker. Given this background, the present report describes the clinical, anatomopathological, and IHC aspects of a case of metastatic SCC with a primary site in the vulva of a mare.

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Mineral deficiencies are important causes of productive losses in ruminant farming, especially in semiarid regions. This study aimed to determine Na, K, and Cl serum concentrations, plus the salivary concentrations of Na and K in sheep raised in a semiarid region of Northeastern Brazil, and to report the epidemiology, clinical and the pathological aspects of an outbreak of hyponatremia in sheep. For this, serum and salivary samples of 55 sheep were collected in 6 different farms in the region. Na, K, and Cl concentrations were determined by colorimetric test, using commercial kits in a semi-automatic biochemical analyzer. The mean serum concentrations ranged from 131.5±13.1mEq/L to 172.4±9.3mEq/L for Na, 6.28±1.3mEq/L to 13.9±1.4mEq/L for K, and 91.6±54.8mEq/L to 113.6±1.5mEq/L for Cl. The mean salivary concentrations ranged from 119.4±9.5mEq/L to 161.8±15.2mEq/L for Na, 10.1±3.1mEq/L to 22.3±2.3mEq/L for K, and the ratio Na:K ranged from 6.0±1.3mEq/L to 11.8±4.1mEq/L. These results revealed that most sheep raised in the farms in this region are marginally depleted in sodium. In one farm, sheep had severe clinical signs of Na deficiency consisting of haggard appearance, craving for salt, polydipsia, polyuria, dry cough, inappetence, pica, weakness, difficulty to rise and move, severe emaciation, and dehydration. On autopsy, the ruminal content was generally impacted, giving to the content an aspect of clay balls. Four sheep presented hypertrophy of the adrenal glands. Histopathologically, the width of the zona glomerulosa was expanded, there was loss of the architecture and loss of adrenocortical cell cords. The epithelial cells in the zona glomerulosa and fasciculata were pyramidal, and contained hypereosinophilic cytoplasm and hyperchromatic nuclei. These data demonstrate the occurrence of Na deficiency in different degrees in sheep farms in the State of Pernambuco and highlight the importance of providing NaCl to avoid outbreaks of hyponatremia.

Deficiências minerais são importantes causas de perdas produtivas em criações de ruminantes, sobretudo em regiões semiáridas. Este trabalho teve como objetivo determinar as concentrações séricas de Na, K e Cl, além das concentrações salivares de Na e K em ovinos criados em uma região semiárida do Nordeste do Brasil e relatar a epidemiologia e os aspectos clínicos e patológicos de um surto de hiponatremia severa em ovinos. Para isso, amostras de soro e saliva de 55 ovinos foram coletadas em 6 diferentes fazendas da região. As concentrações de Na, K e Cl foram determinadas por teste colorimétrico, utilizando kits comerciais em analisador bioquímico semiautomático. As concentrações séricas médias variaram de 131,5±13,1mEq/L a 172,4±9,3mEq/L para Na, 6,28±1,3mEq/L a 13,9±1,4mEq/L para K e 91,6±54,8mEq/L a 113,6±1,5mEq/L para Cl. As concentrações salivares médias variaram de 119,4±9,5mEq/L a 161,8±15,2mEq/L para Na, 10,1±3,1mEq/L a 22,3±2,3mEq/L para K, e a razão Na: K variou de 6,0±1,3mEq/L a 11,8±4,1mEq/L. Esses resultados revelaram que a maioria dos ovinos criados nas fazendas desta região são marginalmente sódio deficientes. Em uma fazenda, os ovinos apresentavam um quadro clínico grave de deficiência de Na. Os principais sinais clínicos consistiam em apatia, avidez por sal, polidipsia, poliúria, tosse seca, inapetência, pica, fraqueza, dificuldade de se levantar e se locomover, emagrecimento e desidratação. À necropsia, o conteúdo ruminal estava geralmente compactado, dando ao conteúdo um aspecto de bolas de argila. Quatro ovelhas apresentaram hipertrofia das glândulas adrenais. Histopatologicamente, a zona glomerulosa apresentava-se espessa, com perda da arquitetura e desarranjo dos cordões celulares. As células epiteliais da zona glomerulosa e fasciculada eram piramidais, apresentavam citoplasma hipereosinofílico e continham núcleos hipercromáticos. Esses dados demonstram a ocorrência de deficiência de Na em diferentes graus em criações de ovinos no Estado de Pernambuco e evidencia a importância do fornecimento de NaCl para a prevenção de surtos de hiponatremia.

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Lowland paca (Cuniculus paca, Linnaeus, 1766) is a medium-sized rodent that belongs to the Brazilian fauna. Yet little information on its morphology is found in the specialized literature. Thus, the objective of the work was to study the morphology of the adrenal gland of paca by means of microscopic ultrastructure analysis. The adrenal gland secretes specialized substances in the body which promote biological functions of great importance and will provide valuable information to studies in comparative anatomy. Two (2) adult lowland pacas were used, male and female. Soon after death, the animals were positioned in the supine position; their abdominal cavities were opened by pre-retro umbilical and lateral incision followed by folding of the abdominal walls to expose the glands. The adrenal glands were removed; fragments were collected, fixed and prepared for ultrastructure observations using scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy techniques. It was observed that the adrenal glands of the paca have divisions as well as the limits of the cortical and medullary region, as well as the subdivisions of the glomerulosa, fasciculated and reticulated areas of the cortical region as in other rodents. An ultrastructure of cells and their components also showed a lot of similarity to that already demonstrated in different rodents.

A paca (Cuniculus paca, Linnaeus, 1766) é um roedor de médio porte pertencente à fauna brasileira. Ainda assim, pouca informação sobre sua morfologia é encontrada na literatura especializada. Assim, o objetivo do trabalho foi estudar a morfologia da glândula adrenal da paca por meio da análise microscópica ultraestrutural. A glândula adrenal secreta no corpo substâncias especializadas que promovem funções biológicas de grande importância e fornecerão informações valiosas aos estu-dos de anatomia comparada. Foram utilizadas duas (2) pacas adultas, um macho e uma fêmea. Logo após a morte, os animais foram posicionados em decúbito dorsal; suas cavidades abdominais foram abertas por incisão pré-retro umbilical, seguida de rebatimento das paredes abdominais para expor as glândulas. As glândulas suprarrenais foram removidas; fragmentos foram coletados, fixados e preparados para observações ultraestruturais por meio de microscopia eletrônica de varredura e micros-copia eletrônica de transmissão. Observou-se que as glândulas supra-renais da paca apresentam divisões bem como os limites da região cortical e medular, bem como as subdivisões da glomerulosa, áreas fasciculadas e reticuladas da região cortical como em outros roedores. Uma ultraestrutura de células e seus componentes também mostrou muita similaridade com aquela já demonstrada em diferentes roedores.

Resumo

Cortisol is a steroid hormone, one of the glucocorticoids, made in the cortex of the adrenal glands and then released into the blood, which transports it in the entire body. Almost every cell contains receptors for cortisol and so cortisol can have lots of different actions depending on which sort of cells it is acting upon. These effects include controlling the body's blood sugar levels and thus regulating metabolism, acting as an anti-inflammatory product, controlling salt and water balance and influencing blood pressure. The study was conducted over a period of 3 months, between March-August 2020, in 2 swine farms in Iasi county, Romania, on a total of 46 pigs, 3 to 4 months old, both males and females, in order to investigate stress levels in finishing facilities. The study revealed higher levels of cortisol while eosinophil counts severely decreased, changes which are associated with a strong reaction to stress for individuals that were housed in finishing facilities.(AU)

O cortisol é um hormônio esteroide, um dos glicocorticoides, produzido no córtex das glândulas suprarrenais e, em seguida, liberado no sangue, que o transporta por todo o corpo. Quase todas as células contêm receptores para o cortisol e, portanto, ele pode ter muitas ações diferentes, dependendo do tipo de célula sobre a qual atua. Esses efeitos incluem controlar os níveis de açúcar no sangue do corpo e, assim, regular o metabolismo, atuando como um produto anti-inflamatório, controlando o equilíbrio de sal e água e influenciando a pressão arterial. O presente estudo foi realizado durante um período de três meses, entre março-agosto de 2020, em duas granjas de suínos no condado de Iasi, Romênia, em um número total de 46 porcos, de três a quatro meses de idade, machos e fêmeas, a fim de investigar níveis de estresse nas instalações de acabamento. O estudo revelou níveis mais elevados de cortisol, enquanto a contagem de eosinófilos diminuiu severamente, mudanças que são consideradas associadas a uma forte reação ao estresse para indivíduos que foram alojados em instalações de acabamento.(AU)

Resumo

Background: Differences of the size of the adrenal glands, in healthy dogs or in endocrinopathies, undermine correct diagnosis of endocrine disorders and evaluations of the adrenal cortex in relation to its size and possible correlation with endocrinopathies are rare. The aim of the present study was to perform measurements of the length, width, thickness and weight of the adrenal glands of young, adult and elderly mixed-breed dogs and correlate them with the age, sex and weight of animals. In addition, the areas occupied by the zona glomerulosa, zona fasciculata, and zona reticularis of the adrenal cortex were measured in order to establish a microscopic biometric pattern. Material, Methods & Results: The right and left adrenal glands of 12 young (six females and six males), 12 adults (six females and six males), and 12 elderly (six females and six males), all mongrels, derived from routine and necropsied in the Animal Pathology Sector of the Veterinary Hospital of the Federal University of Espírito Santo (HOVET-UFES) were weighed and the length, width, and thickness were measured. For the microscopic measurement of the adrenal cortex, 10 randomly selected samples were submitted to routine histological processing and the microscope slides were observed under a light microscope at 5× and 10× objectives, photodocumented and measurements were obtained from a random portion of the adrenal cortex and the zones composing the cortex were measured in triplicate with the aid of the computerized image analysis software. The left adrenal showed a greater average length than the right adrenal in young, adult, and elderly dogs. The size of the glands in the young and adult dogs is not influenced by the sex of the animals, but in older dogs the females had a greater mean...

Resumo

O hiperaldosteronismo se define pela hipersecreção de aldosterona pelas suprarrenais, resultando em excesso de sódio e redução de potássio sanguíneo. Esta hipersecreção deve-se à síntese autônoma de aldosterona por células adrenais hiperplásicas ou neoplásicas, que agem independentemente da estimulação pelo sistema renina-angiotensina. A doença acomete felinos de adultos maduros a idosos. O excesso de aldosterona culmina em hipertensão sistêmica e/ou hipocalemia, que levam à fraqueza muscular e alterações oculares. O diagnóstico é baseado em exames laboratoriais e de imagem, e o tratamento pode ser clínico ou cirúrgico. O prognóstico é considerado favorável quando as medicações são capazes de melhorar as manifestações clínicas ou quando é possível realizar o procedimento cirúrgico. O presente trabalho visa relatar o caso de um felino macho de 13 anos, castrado, sem raça definida, com hipocalemia persistente secundária a um presuntivo tumor adrenal.

Hyperaldosteronism is defined by the hypersecretion of aldosterone by the adrenal glands resulting in excess sodium and reduced blood potassium. This hypersecretion is due to the autonomous synthesis of aldosterone by hyperplastic or neoplastic adrenal cells, which act independently of stimulation by the renin-angiotensin system. The disease affects felines in the age group from mature adults to the elderly. The excess of aldosterone culminates in systemic hypertension and/or hypokalemia, which leads to muscle weakness and ocular changes. The diagnosis is based on laboratory and imaging tests and treatment can be clinical or surgical. The prognosis is considered favorable when the medications are able to improve the clinical manifestations or when it is possible to perform the surgical procedure. The present paper aims to report the case of a 13-year-old male cat, castrated, crossbred, with persistent hypokalemia secondary to a presumptive adrenal tumor.

Resumo

Rabbits have been used as an experimental model in many studies. These studies are important for not only for veterinary clinicians, but also for researchers in different elds. The aim of this research was to describe gross morphological measurement, shape and arterial supply of the adrenal glands in healthy New Zealand rabbits. Dissections were performed in 30 adult rabbits, 15 males and 15 females, without macroscopic adrenal pathology. Adrenal measurements were made with a digital caliper: length, width, and thickness. The origin of the adrenal arteries was also determined. Both adrenal glands were localized cranially to the respective kidneys. The mean of the right adrenal gland was 0.88 cm length, 0.42 cm width and 0.16 cm thickness; the left gland measured 0.72 cm, 0.46 cm, and 0.17 cm, respectively. The right gland was significantly more elongated than the left (p = 0.0003) and the means of the measurements did not differ between sexes. Most of the right adrenal glands had a piriform shape (73.3%), whereas most of the left gland exhibited a bean-shaped aspect (60.0%). The arterial supply was found to arise from different arteries:  lumbar, aorta, renal, caudal mesenteric, and testicular or ovarian. Comparatively, the descriptions of shape, position and arterial irrigation of the adrenal gland in rabbits are similar to those available in rodents. The data from the pres

Coelhos têm sido utilizados como modelo experimental em muitos estudos. Esses estudos são importantes não apenas para médicos veterinários, mas também para pesquisadores de diferentes campos. O objetivo desta pesquisa foi descrever as medidas morfológicas macroscópicas, forma e suprimento arterial das glândulas adrenais em coelhos saudáveis da raça Nova Zelândia. As dissecções foram realizadas em 30 coelhos adultos, 15 machos e 15 fêmeas, sem sinais macroscópicos de patologia adrenal. As medidas adrenais foram realizadas com paquímetro digital: comprimento, largura e espessura. A origem das artérias adrenais também foi determinada. Ambas as glândulas adrenais foram localizadas cranialmente nos respectivos rins. A média da glândula adrenal direita foi de 0,88 cm de comprimento, 0,42 cm de largura e 0,16 cm de espessura; a glândula esquerda mediu 0,72 cm, 0,46 cm e 0,17 cm, respectivamente. A glândula direita foi significativamente mais alongada que a esquerda (p = 0,0003) e as médias das medidas não diferiram entre os sexos. A maioria das glândulas adrenais direitas tinha uma forma piriforme (73,3%), enquanto a maioria da glândula esquerda exibia um aspecto em “forma de feijão” (60,0%). Verificou-se que o suprimento arterial provém de diferentes artérias: lombar, aorta, renal, mesentérica caudal e testicular ou ovariana. Comparativamente, as descrições de forma, posição e irrigação arterial da glândula adrenal em coelhos são semelhantes às disponíveis em roedores. Os dados da presente investigação ajudarão na interpretação de achados patológicos e / ou experimentais em coelhos da raça Nova Zelândia.

Resumo

Rabbits have been used as an experimental model in many studies. These studies are important not only for veterinary clinicians, but also for researchers in different fields. The aim of this research was to describe gross morphological measurement, shape and arterial supply of the adrenal glands in healthy New Zealand rabbits. Dissections were performed in 30 adult rabbits, 15 males and 15 females, without macroscopic adrenal pathology. Adrenal measurements were made with a digital caliper: length, width, and thickness. The origin of the adrenal arteries was also determined. Both adrenal glands were localized cranially to the respective kidneys. The mean of the right adrenal gland was 0.88 cm length, 0.42 cm width and 0.16 cm thickness; the left gland measured 0.72 cm, 0.46 cm, and 0.17 cm, respectively. The right gland was significantly more elongated than the left (p = 0.0003) and the means of the measurements did not differ between sexes. Most of the right adrenal glands had a piriform shape (73.3%), whereas most of the left gland exhibited a "bean-shaped" aspect (60.0%). The arterial supply was found to arise from different arteries: lumbar, aorta, renal, caudal mesenteric, and testicular or ovarian. Comparatively, the descriptions of shape, position and arterial irrigation of the adrenal gland in rabbits are similar to those available in rodents. The data from the present investigation will assist in the interpretation of pathological and / or experimental findings in New Zealand rabbits.

Coelhos têm sido utilizados como modelo experimental em muitos estudos. Esses estudos são importantes não apenas para médicos veterinários, mas também para pesquisadores de diferentes campos. O objetivo desta pesquisa foi descrever as medidas morfológicas macroscópicas, forma e suprimento arterial das glândulas adrenais em coelhos saudáveis da raça Nova Zelândia. As dissecções foram realizadas em 30 coelhos adultos, 15 machos e 15 fêmeas, sem sinais macroscópicos de patologia adrenal. As medidas adrenais foram realizadas com paquímetro digital: comprimento, largura e espessura. A origem das artérias adrenais também foi determinada. Ambas as glândulas adrenais foram localizadas cranialmente nos respectivos rins. A média da glândula adrenal direita foi de 0,88 cm de comprimento, 0,42 cm de largura e 0,16 cm de espessura; a glândula esquerda mediu 0,72 cm, 0,46 cm e 0,17 cm, respectivamente. A glândula direita foi significativamente mais alongada que a esquerda (p = 0,0003) e as médias das medidas não diferiram entre os sexos. A maioria das glândulas adrenais direitas tinha uma forma piriforme (73,3%), enquanto a maioria da glândula esquerda exibia um aspecto em "forma de feijão" (60,0%). Verificou-se que o suprimento arterial provém de diferentes artérias: lombar, aorta, renal, mesentérica caudal e testicular ou ovariana. Comparativamente, as descrições de forma, posição e irrigação arterial da glândula adrenal em coelhos são semelhantes às disponíveis em roedores. Os dados da presente investigação ajudarão na interpretação de achados patológicos e / ou experimentais em coelhos da raça Nova Zelândia.

Resumo

ABSTRACT: Hypercortisolism is a common endocrinopathy in dogs; however, in a few cases, bilateral functional adrenocortical adenomas cause spontaneous disease, and thrombotic events are considered uncommon complications. The aim of this report was to describe a case of bilateral adrenocortical adenoma in a dog with hyperadrenocorticism associated with distal aortic and iliac thrombosis, with emphasis on clinical and pathological aspects. A 15-year-old spayed female Dachshund with a previous clinical history of hyperadrenocorticism presented with acute bilateral hindlimb paraparesis. A vertebral thoracolumbar radiography was performed and did not present any evidence of intervertebral disk disease or vertebral abnormalities; however, abdominal ultrasound and vascular Doppler evaluation revealed bilateral adrenal enlargement in addition to an aortic and external iliac artery thrombus. The animal was euthanized. At necropsy, both adrenal glands were enlarged by well-demarcated neoplastic nodules in the parenchyma, and a thrombus caudal to the abdominal aorta bifurcation within the external iliac arteries that extended to the left external iliac artery was noted. Histological evaluation revealed a well-differentiated neoplastic proliferation of cortical epithelial cells, consistent with bilateral adenoma, and muscular necrosis in the pelvic limbs was also observed. Bilateral functional adrenocortical adenoma; although, very rare, should be considered as a cause of hypercortisolism, and aortic thrombosis in dogs should be considered as a possible consequence.

RESUMO: Hipercortisolismo é uma endocrinopatia comum em cães, no entanto, apenas em poucos casos adenomas adrenocorticais funcionais bilaterais são a causa de doença espontânea, e eventos trombóticos são considerados complicações incomuns. O objetivo deste relato foi descrever um caso de adenoma adrenocortical bilateral em um cão com hiperadrenocorticismo associado a trombose aórtica distal e ilíaca, com ênfase nos aspectos clínicos e patológicos. Um cão, Dachshund, fêmea castrada, de 15 anos, com histórico clínico prévio de hiperadrenocorticismo, apresentou paraparesia aguda dos membros posteriores. Foi realizada radiografia toracolombar vertebral, a qual não mostrou nenhuma evidência de doença do disco intervertebral ou anormalidades vertebrais; no entanto, ultrassonografia abdominal e Doppler vascular revelaram um trombo na aorta e artéria ilíaca externa, e adrenomegalia bilateral. O animal foi submetido à eutanásia. Na necropsia, ambas as adrenais estavam distendidas por nódulos neoplásicos bem delimitados no parênquima e notou-se um trombo caudalmente à bifurcação da aorta abdominal às artérias ilíacas externas, estendendo-se à ilíaca externa esquerda. Na avaliação histológica observou-se proliferação neoplásica bem diferenciada de células epiteliais corticais, consistente com adenoma bilateral; também foi observada necrose muscular nos membros pélvicos. O adenoma adrenocortical funcional bilateral, embora muito raro, deve ser considerado uma causa de hipercortisolismo, e a trombose aórtica em cães deve ser considerada uma possível consequência.

Resumo

O hiperaldosteronismo se define pela hipersecreção de aldosterona pelas suprarrenais, resultando em excesso de sódio e redução de potássio sanguíneo. Esta hipersecreção deve-se à síntese autônoma de aldosterona por células adrenais hiperplásicas ou neoplásicas, que agem independentemente da estimulação pelo sistema renina-angiotensina. A doença acomete felinos de adultos maduros a idosos. O excesso de aldosterona culmina em hipertensão sistêmica e/ou hipocalemia, que levam à fraqueza muscular e alterações oculares. O diagnóstico é baseado em exames laboratoriais e de imagem, e o tratamento pode ser clínico ou cirúrgico. O prognóstico é considerado favorável quando as medicações são capazes de melhorar as manifestações clínicas ou quando é possível realizar o procedimento cirúrgico. O presente trabalho visa relatar o caso de um felino macho de 13 anos, castrado, sem raça definida, com hipocalemia persistente secundária a um presuntivo tumor adrenal.

Hyperaldosteronism is defined by the hypersecretion of aldosterone by the adrenal glands resulting in excess sodium and reduced blood potassium. This hypersecretion is due to the autonomous synthesis of aldosterone by hyperplastic or neoplastic adrenal cells, which act independently of stimulation by the renin-angiotensin system. The disease affects felines in the age group from mature adults to the elderly. The excess of aldosterone culminates in systemic hypertension and/or hypokalemia, which leads to muscle weakness and ocular changes. The diagnosis is based on laboratory and imaging tests and treatment can be clinical or surgical. The prognosis is considered favorable when the medications are able to improve the clinical manifestations or when it is possible to perform the surgical procedure. The present paper aims to report the case of a 13-year-old male cat, castrated, crossbred, with persistent hypokalemia secondary to a presumptive adrenal tumor.

Resumo

O abortamento na espécie equina é responsável por grandes perdas econômicas e, entre as possíveis causas, está a neosporose, uma enfermidade que nem sempre é investigada como provável diagnóstico. Assim, o objetivo deste trabalho foi relatar um caso de aborto equino aos 129 dias de gestação, resultante da infecção por Neospora spp.. Amostras sanguíneas da égua e do feto abortado foram enviadas para um laboratório especializado. À necrópsia, constatou-se edema gelatinoso e hemorrágico em subcutâneo, fígado ictérico e friável com autólise de alguns órgãos, como baço, rins e glândulas adrenais. Fragmentos dos órgãos coletados na necrópsia foram submetidos à histopatologia e à pesquisa de agentes infecciosos, em que se identificou hepatite e epicardite não purulentas e onfalite purulenta, bem como exame positivo para Neospora spp. pela técnica de reação em cadeia da polimerase (PCR) convencional e Nested. O soro sanguíneo obtido da égua foi submetido à pesquisa de Neospora spp. pela técnica de imunofluorescência indireta, de herpesvírus por soroneutralização em cultura de células e de Leptospira sp. por PCR, todas com resultados negativos. Dessa forma, é importante considerar a neosporose como diagnóstico diferencial em casos de abortamento e natimortalidade, uma vez que a presença de cães nas propriedades é extremamente comum, representando uma importante fonte de infecção.(AU)

Abortion in the equine species is responsible for major economic losses, and among the possible causes is neosporosis, a disease that is not always investigated as a probable diagnosis. Thus, the objective of this study was to report an abortion at 129 days of gestation resulting from Neospora spp. Blood samples from the mare and the aborted fetus were sent to a specialized laboratory. Under necropsy, gelatinous and hemorrhagic edema was detected in subcutaneous tissue, friable and jaundiced liver with autolysis in spleen, kidneys and adrenal glands. Fragments of the organs collected at necropsy were submitted to histopathology and infectious agent tests, which identified non-purulent hepatitis and epicarditis and purulent omphalitis. Also, a positive result for Neospora spp. by the conventional and nested Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) technique. Blood serum obtained from the mare was subjected to analyses to Neospora spp. by indirect immunofluorescence technique, herpesvirus by serum neutralization in cell culture and Leptospira sp. by PCR, all with negative results. Thus, it is important to consider neosporosis as a differential diagnosis in cases of abortion and stillbirth, since the presence of dogs in the properties is extremely common and represent an important source of infection.(AU)