Thecoma in an elderly crioulo mare

Background: Ovarian enlargement in mares can either be a physiological or pathological condition associated with neoplastic or non-neoplastic causes. Neoplasia is more prominent in elderly than young horses. Granulosa cell tumors are the most common neoplastic cause of ovarian enlargement, and thecoma is the rarest. Thecoma is a benign ovarian stromal neoplasia originating from the sexual cords of the embryonic gonad and can affect the production of steroid hormones, leading to changes in behavior and the estrous cycle. If only one ovary is affected, after unilateral ovariectomy, usually the mare can still be used for reproductive purposes. Herein, we report a case of ovarian thecoma in an elderly Crioulo mare. Case: A 15-year-old Crioulo mare was evaluated due to progressive weight loss. The mare presented a low body score, and on physical examination, all parameters were within reference limits. Hematological examination revealed anemia, hyperfibrinogenemia, and neutrophilia. Serum biochemistry examination were within the physiological limits. Rectal palpation revealed an increase in volume in the left ovary (4.3 × 2.9 × 3 cm), smooth consistency and no associated pain in either of the ovaries. Rectal ultrasonography revealed a heterogeneous pattern, suggesting a neoplasm. As a treatment modality and for definitive diagnosis, the mare underwent a unilateral flank ovariectomy laparoscopically in the quadrupedal position. On histopathological evaluation of the left ovary, the sample showed cysts associated with proliferating spindle cells arranged in a solid arrangement, occasionally forming eddies, in addition to hemosiderosis, with clear cytoplasm and lipid vacuoles. Macroscopically, the ovary presented with a regular surface, smooth to firm consistency, a homogeneous brownish appearance with blackened foci, and brownish fluid-filled cysts. These findings confirmed thecoma of the left ovary in the mare. Discussion: Ovarian enlargement in mares can be associated to the presence of neoplasia. Clinical signs of ovarian neoplasms can be nonspecific; therefore, to achieve a definitive diagnosis, it is imperative to evaluate and compare the patient's history, physical examination, and results of complementary examinations. Excessive production of hormones lead to behavioral changes in mares with ovarian tumors, such as masculinized or aggressive behavior, and anestrus persistence. Thecomas may or may not interfere with steroid production and levels. On ultrasound examination, ovarian neoplasms may present similar echogenicity patterns. Histopathological evaluation is the best diagnostic approach after an ovariectomy. The prognosis of ovariectomy is considerably successful with the mare regaining reproductive health, although some mares may become infertile, with a small, inactive contralateral ovary. Thecoma is a rare neoplasm in horses; however, owing to its potential to cause altered reproductive functions, it should be considered as a differential diagnosis in mares with increased ovarian volume.

Vacuolização neuronal e degeneração espinocerebelar em filhote de Rottweiler / Neuronal vacuolation and spinocerebellar degeneration in a Rottweiller puppy

Background: Spinocerebellar degenerations and neuronal vacuolations are alterations characterized by the formation of vacuoles in the nervous tissue, commonly called status spongiosus. This condition occurs in young Rottweiler dogs causing a disease called Neuronal Vacuolation and Spinocerebellar Degeneration. Clinically, it presents with ataxia of the pelvic limbs, which evolves to generalized ataxia, tetraparesis, and laryngeal paralysis. Histologically, spongiform and vacuolar alterations of the neuropil and neurons are highlighted. This reports a case of neuronal vacuolation and spinocerebellar degeneration in a Rottweiler puppy. Case: Necropsy was performed on the cadaver of a 5-month-old Rottweiler bitch that had been presenting with ataxia for approximately 1 month, in addition to dyspnea, pulmonary crepitations, and microphthalmia. Macroscopic evaluation revealed pale ocular and oral mucosae; marked gastric dilatation and abdominal distension; pulmonary hemorrhage and edema; hepatosplenomegaly; fatty degeneration of the liver; and congestion of meningeal blood vessels. Microscopically, histological evaluation of the spinal cord showed an increase in gray matter cellularity with marked presence of oligodendrocytes and microglia cells; moderate to severe multifocal intracytoplasmic micro- and macrovacuoles with displacement of the neurons' nuclei to the periphery of the cell; central chromatolysis of the neurons adjacent to neurons affected by vacuolation; and mild multifocal necrosis associated with mild multifocal neuronophagia. The white matter exhibited discrete digestion chambers, in addition to marked diffuse congestion of the leptomeninges. In the cerebellum, neurons in the nerve nuclei (emboliform, globose, and fastigial) showed moderate multifocal vacuoles in the cytoplasm, whereas adjacent neurons showed central chromatolysis, necrosis, and mild neuronophagia. Additional histological findings included lymphoid hyperplasia, fatty degeneration of the liver, pulmonary edema, and pulmonary hemorrhage. Discussion: Spongiform and degenerative encephalopathies are diseases recognized worldwide, mainly in cattle and sheep. However, the identification of these changes in new species has led to the need for further investigations. In dogs, the first reports occurred in 1995 and 1997 in Rottweiler animals. This disease affects young dogs, and although its pathogenesis is not completely known, it is believed to be associated with a genetic mutation in the RAB3GAP1 gene. Clinically, it is associated with clinical neurological manifestations, including progressive ataxia of the pelvic limbs, changes in spinal reflex, disordered proprioceptive reactions, laryngeal paralysis, as well as behavioral and gait alterations. In the clinical evaluation, leukoencephalomyelopathy and neuroaxonal dystrophy should be diseases considered as possible differential diagnoses, as they present with similar alterations. However, in histological evaluation, the exclusion of both is basically due to the absence of neuronal vacuolization. Unfortunately, the definitive diagnosis is only made post mortem, through a histopathological evaluation of the nervous tissue. Because it is a disease whose pathogenesis is little known and which shows signs of having a genetic character, histopathological examination for diagnostic purposes in young animals with neurological signs is of great importance.

Evaluation of the antinociceptive effect generated by citronellal monoterpene isomers / Avaliação do efeito antinociceptivo gerado por isômeros do monoterpeno citronelal

Due to the complex nature of pain and the participation of physical, cognitive, psychological and behavioral aspects, pain management has several approaches. The use of medicinal plants in developing countries is quite expressive. Seeking new options for the treatment of emerging or debilitating diseases. Therefore, the present study seeks to elucidate the effects of the monoterpene, citronellal, differentiating its activity by isomers (R)-(+) and (S)-(-) citronellal. The study used several methods to evaluate the effects of citronellal isomers on motor coordination, nociceptive response, and the involvement of opioid, glutamatergic, and transient receptor pathways. The methods included rota-rod, hot-plate, and formalin tests, as well as the use of specific inhibitors and agonists. Data were analyzed using inferential statistics with a 95% confidence level. Both isomers did not significantly affect the motor coordination of the studied animals. The isomer (S)-(-) citronellal showed better results in relation to its structural counterpart, managing to have an antinociceptive effect in the formalin and hot plate tests with a lower concentration (100 mg/kg) and presenting fewer side effects, however, the this study was not able to elucidate the mechanism of action of this isomer despite having activity in studies with substances that act on specific targets such as glutamate and capsaicin, its activity was not reversed with the use of antagonists for pathways related to nociception. While the (R)-(+) citronellal isomer, despite showing total activity only at a concentration of 150 mg/kg, was able to determine its mechanism of action related to the opioid pathway by reversing its activity by the antagonist naloxone, being this is a pathway already correlated with nociception control treatments, however, it is also related to some unwanted side effects. In this way, new studies are sought to elucidate the mechanism related to the isomer (S)-(-) citronellal and a possibility of use in other areas related to the treatment of pain or inflammation.

Devido à natureza complexa da dor e a sua participação de aspectos físicos, cognitivos, psicológicos e comportamentais, o manejo da dor possui diversas abordagens. O uso de plantas medicinais em países em desenvolvimento é bastante expressivo. Buscando novas opções para o tratamento de denças emergentes ou debilitantes. Portanto, o presente estudo busca elucidar os efeitos do monoterpeno, citronelal, diferenciando sua atividade pelos isômeros (R)-(+) e (S)-(-) citronelal. O estudo utilizou diversos métodos para avaliar os efeitos dos isômeros de citronelal na coordenação motora, resposta nociceptiva e o envolvimento de vias opioides, glutamatérgicas e de receptores transitórios. Os métodos incluíram testes de rota-rod, placa quente e formalina, além do uso de inibidores e agonistas específicos. Os dados foram analisados estatisticamente com um intervalo de confiança de 95%. Ambos os isomeros não afetaram significativamente a coordenação motora dos animais em estudo. O isômero (S)-(-) citronelal apresentou melhores resultados em relação ao seu homólogo estrutural, conseguindo ter um efeito antinociceptivo nos testes de formalina e placa quente com menor concentração (100 mg/kg) e apresentando menos efeitos colaterais, entretanto, o presente estudo não foi capaz de elucidar o mecanismo de ação deste isomero apesar de ter atividadade em estudos com substancias que agem em alvos específicos como glutamato e capsaicina, sua atividade não foi revertida com a utilização de antagonistas para as vias relacionadas à nocicepção. Enquanto o isômero (R)-(+) citronelal, apesar de apresentar de apresentar total atividade somente na concentração de 150 mg/kg, foi capaz de determinar seu mecanismo de ação relacionado à via opióide pela reversão da sua atividade pelo antagonista naloxona, sendo esta uma via já correlacionada com os tratamentos de controle da a nocicepção, no entanto, também está relacionada a alguns efeitos colaterais indesejados. Desta forma busca-se novos estudos para elucidação do mecanismo relacionados ao isomero (S)-(-) citronellal e uma possibilidade de utilização em outras areas relacionadas ao tratamento da dor ou inflamação.

Carcinoma de células escamosas (cce) em cão na região prepucial: relato de caso / Squamous cell carcinoma (scc) in dog in the preputial region: case report / Carcinoma de células escamosas (cce) en perro de la región prepucial: reporte de un caso

A expectativa de vida dos animais de companhia vem aumentando devido as mudanças comportamentais e de cuidados dos tutores. Em analogia, com as idades cada vez mais avançadas, é comum o desenvolvimento de doenças associadas, sendo o tumor o mais comum entre elas. Todavia, as neoplasias mais comuns na clínica de pequenos animais estão associadas ao sistema tegumentar. O carcinoma de células escamosas (CCE), ou carcinoma espinocelular, é uma neoplasia de epitélio, maligno, de crescimento lento e de baixo potencial metastático. Sua etiologia ainda não é precisamente conhecida e a causa exógena mais comum e descrita pela literatura é a exposição à luz ultravioleta, gerando consequentes lesões nas estruturas genéticas e imunogênicas na pele. Além disso, essas lesões apresentam-se de forma mais comum em animais de pelagem clara, com grande exposição solar e em área anatômicas hipopigmentadas. O prognóstico varia de acordo com a localização e o estágio clínico, sendo favorável o diagnóstico realizado precocemente, e o tratamento consiste na avaliação clínica seguida do protocolo adequado O presente relato de caso tem como objetivo principal reunir e discutir informações associadas sobre o carcinoma de células escamosas em caninos e felinos, abordando aspectos clínicos e patológicos, a fim de facilitar o raciocínio sobre o CCE, desde sua abordagem inicial, até seu diagnóstico final e estadiamento.(AU)

The life expectancy of companion animals has been increasing due to behavioral and care changes of the guardians. In analogy, with the increasingly advanced ages, the development of associated diseases is common, the tumor being the most common among them. However, the most common neoplasms in the small animal clinic are associated with the integumentary system. Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), or squamous cell carcinoma, is a malignant, slow-growing, low-potential metastatic epithelial neoplasm. Its etiology is not yet precisely known and the most common exogenous cause described by the literature is exposure to ultraviolet light, generating consequent lesions on the genetic and immunogenic structures in the skin. In addition, these lesions are more common in light-haired animals, with high exposure to the sun, and in hypopigmented anatomical areas. The prognosis varies according to the location and clinical stage, being favorable to the early diagnosis, and the treatment consists in the clinical evaluation followed by the appropriate protocol. The present case report has as its main objective to gather and discuss associated information about squamous cell carcinoma in canines and cats, addressing clinical and pathological aspects, in order to facilitate the reasoning about the CCE, from its initial approach, to its final diagnosis and staging.(AU)

La esperanza de vida de los animales de compañía ha ido en aumento debido a los cambios de comportamiento y cuidado de los guardianes. Por analogía, con las edades cada vez más avanzadas, el desarrollo de enfermedades asociadas es común, siendo el tumor el más común entre ellos. Sin embargo, las neoplasias más comunes en la clínica de animales pequeños se asocian con el sistema tegumentario. El carcinoma epidermoide (CCE), o carcinoma epidermoide, es una neoplasia epitelial metastásica maligna de crecimiento lento y bajo potencial. Su etiología aún no se conoce con precisión y la causa exógena más común descrita por la literatura es la exposición a la luz ultravioleta, generando lesiones consecuentes en las estructuras genéticas e inmunogénicas de la piel. Además, estas lesiones son más comunes en animales de pelo claro, con alta exposición al sol, y en áreas anatómicas hipopigmentadas. El pronóstico varía según la localización y el estadio clínico, siendo favorable al diagnóstico precoz, y el tratamiento consiste en la evaluación clínica seguida del protocolo adecuado. El presente reporte de caso tiene como objetivo principal reunir y discutir información asociada sobre el carcinoma epidermoide en caninos y gatos, abordando aspectos clínicos y patológicos, con el fin de facilitar el razonamiento sobre el CCE, desde su abordaje inicial, hasta su diagnóstico final y estadificación.(AU)

Physiological gait test: an effective method for analyzing balance, locomotion, and neuromuscular disorders in rats and a comparison to the elevated beam test / Teste de marcha fisiológica: um método eficaz para analisar distúrbios de equilíbrio, locomoção e neuromusculares em roedores

The evaluation of animal locomotor activity is a behavioral tool widely used to measure the mechanisms underlying a particular disease, disorder, or injury, as well as the effects of exposure to a xenobiotic. The elevated beam test is one of the most used tests in rodents to assess balance and motor coordination. Despite being inexpensive and utilizing a simple apparatus, the high beam test requires a long period of animal training and habituation. The development and characterization of an alternative test, namely the gait test, has the potential to circumvent the time and effort required for animal training, deeming it an effective, inexpensive, and fast method for the analysis of behaviors that are comparably assessed by the high beam test. Therefore, the present study focused on determining the effectiveness and feasibility of the gait test for assessing rodent locomotion and balance as a replacement for the elevated beam test. For this purpose, male rats were divided into three groups: one control group exposed to a saline solution (NaCl 0.9%) and two experimental groups exposed to a single dose of either 0.2 or 1.0 mg/kg of ivermectin intraperitoneally for induction of locomotor disturbance. The high beam and gait tests were performed 15 min and 24 h after drug administration. Results show that the experimental groups had difficulty performing the tasks of either test at both time points analyzed compared to the control groups. At the high beam, experimental animals had trouble maintaining balance and walking. At the gait test, experimental animals showed alterations in gait, which were quantitated by: (a) shortening of step length, (b) decrease of stride, (c) altered step symmetry, and (d) altered stride area. Such results are indicative of compensatory efforts and were comparable between both tests. Altogether, the data indicate that the gait test meets all requirements for assessing motor coordination in rodents. The gait test is therefore validated as a complement to the elevated beam test for the study and analysis of neurodegenerative impairment and other disorders involving neuromuscular disturbances.(AU)

A avaliação da atividade locomotora animal é uma ferramenta comportamental bastante utilizada para mensurar os mecanismos subjacentes a uma determinada doença, distúrbio ou lesão e efeitos da exposição a um xenobiótico. Um dos testes mais utilizados em roedores para avaliar o equilíbrio e coordenação motora é o teste da trave elevada que, apesar de ser um teste barato e que exige um aparato simples, é necessário um longo período de treino e habituação dos animais. O desenvolvimento e caracterização de um teste alternativo, chamado de teste da marcha, tem o potencial de contornar o tempo e o esforço necessários ao treino dos animais, considerando-o um método eficaz, barato e rápido para a análise de comportamentos avaliados comparativamente pelo alto teste de feixe. Portanto, o presente estudo concentrou-se em determinar a eficácia e viabilidade do teste de marcha para avaliação da locomoção e equilíbrio de roedores em substituição ao teste da trave elevada. Para isso, ratos machos foram divididos em 3 grupos, sendo 1 grupo controle exposto à solução salina (NaCl 0,9%) e 2 grupos experimentais expostos à dose única de 0,2 e 1,0 mg/kg de ivermectina por via intraperitoneal para indução da alteração locomotora. Os testes de trave elevada e marcha foram realizados 15 min e 24 h após a administração da droga. Os resultados mostram que os grupos experimentais tiveram dificuldade em realizar as tarefas de qualquer teste em ambos os momentos analisados em comparação com os grupos de controle. Na trave elevada, os animais experimentais tiveram dificuldade em manter o equilíbrio e andar. No teste de marcha, os animais experimentais apresentaram alterações na marcha, que foram quantificadas por: (a) encurtamento do comprimento da passada, (b) diminuição da passada, (c) alteração da simetria da passada e (d) alteração da área da passada. Tais resultados são indicativos de esforços compensatórios e foram comparáveis entre os dois testes. Em conjunto, os dados indicam que o teste de marcha atende a todos os requisitos para avaliação da coordenação motora em roedores. O teste de marcha é, portanto, validado como um complementar para o teste da trave elevada e para o estudo e análise de comprometimento neurodegenerativo e outros distúrbios envolvendo distúrbios neuromusculares.(AU)

Adenocarcinoma de saco anal com metástase vertebro-medular em um Cocker Spaniel / Anal sac adenocarcinoma with vertebromedullary metastasis in a Cocker Spaniel

Background: Several neoplasms can affect the perianal region, being the hepatic adenoma and the anal sac adenocarcinoma (ASAC), which is considered the most frequent. The ASAC is a malignant neoplasm originating from the secretory epithelium of the perianal apocrine glands and is rarely seen in veterinary medicine. The ASAC occurs mainly in adult to elderly canines with high metastasis rates. Patients may be asymptomatic or manifest discomfort and behavioral changes. In the presence of metastasis, the most frequent clinical signs are inappetence, coughing, dyspnea, and colorectal obstruction. Given this scenario, this paper aims to describe the clinical presentation, diagnostic examination, and necropsy findings of a Cocker Spaniel with ASAC and metastasis in the vertebral body, spinal cord, and cauda equina. Case: A 8-year-old neutered male Cocker Spaniel (12 kg of body mass) with a clinical history of non-ambulatory paraparesis was evaluated. The patient also presented tenesmus, difficulty to defecate, and the presence of nodules in the anal sac area. On the neurological examination, asymmetrical changes compatible with injury between L4-S3 were found. A complete blood count, serum biochemistry, and imaging exams such as plain radiography, abdominal ultrasonography (US), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) were requested. Blood count revealed anemia and neutrophilic leukocytosis and hypercalcemia. The liver showed increased echogenicity and thickened pancreas in the abdominal US scan. A slightly heterogeneous, vascularized mass with irregular borders was identified in the topographic region of the sublumbar lymph nodes; MRI images demonstrated an expansile formation in the ventral region of the lumbosacral spine, corresponding to the sublumbar lymph nodes and interruption of the cerebrospinal fluid at L5, suggestive of compression of the spinal cord and cauda equina. A presumptive diagnosis of perianal neoplasm with metastasis was made based on the complementary exams. The dog was referred to necropsy, which revealed a 4 cm tumor in the perianal region that invaded the pelvic canal. Multifocal nodules were present on the lung surface, liver, and kidneys, suggesting metastasis. On the cross-section of the spine, one could note the presence of the tumor in the vertebral bodies, spinal cord, and cauda equina from L5 to S3. Even with histopathological evaluation of the tumor, only the immunohistochemical analysis allowed us to confirm the anal sac adenocarcinoma. Discussion: Adenomas and carcinomas are perianal gland neoplasms common in adult and elderly male dogs; the Cocker Spaniel breed is among the most affected. The clinical signs presented by the patient, such as tenesmus and difficulty in adopting the posture of defecation, are common, although neurological changes are rare. As for metastasis, carcinomas of the perianal region present high chances of metastasis to organs including the liver, kidneys, and lungs, both lymphatically and hematogenously, but few studies have related these factors to neurological alterations due to metastasis. We concluded that metastases from carcinomas to the spine must be considered a possible differential diagnosis in cases of patients presenting clinical signs that are compatible with spinal cord compression and a history of previous neoplasm.

Influence of pasture, silvopastoral, and feedlot production systems and the recording interval of behavioral activities on the ingestive behavior of lambs / Influência dos sistemas de produção em pastagem, silvipastoril e confinamento, e do intervalo de registro das atividades comportamentais no comportamento ingestivo de cordeiros

The evaluation of the ingestive behavior of ruminant animals is important to identify the animal response to the particularities of the different production systems. However, the five-minute evaluation technique requires personnel, making it difficult to adhere to farms and research in more complex pastoral systems. Thus, this study objected to evaluating the influence of pasture, silvopastoral, and feedlot production systems on the ingestive behavior of lambs and to defining the behavior recording interval in each of the systems. Twenty-four lambs were distributed in an experimental design in split plots. The plots were the production systems (pasture without shading - PS, silvopastoral - SS, and feedlot systems - FS) and the subplots were the behavior observation intervals (5, 10, 15, and 20 min.). In the pasture without shading and silvopastoral systems, the lambs were kept on Aruana grass (Megathyrsus maximus) pasture and supplemented with concentrate at 1.5% of body weight per day, on a dry matter (DM) basis. In the feedlot system, the lambs received a diet consisting of 200 g kg DM-1 of annual ryegrass hay (Lolium multiflorum Lam.) and 800 g kg DM-1 of concentrate. There was no interaction (P > 0.05) between the production system and the recording interval of behavioral activities. The time spent on food intake was higher (P < 0.05) in the pasture (533 min d-1) and silvopastoral (513 min d-1) systems than in the feedlot (225 min d-1). In contrast, for water intake, time was higher (P < 0.05) in the feedlot (21 min d-1) and lower in the silvopastoral system (5 min d-1). There was no difference (P > 0.05) between the systems for rumination and idle activities, of which daily averages were 378 and 587 min d-1, respectively. There was also no difference (P > 0.05) between the observation intervals for feed, water, rumination, and idleness activities. Lambs in pasture-based systems spend more time feeding, and feedlot lambs spend more time ingesting water. Feedlot lambs ruminate as much as grazing animals when fed hay, even though hay represents only 20% of the total diet. The recording interval of behavioral activities in these production systems can be up to 20 minutes.(AU)

A avaliação do comportamento ingestivo de animais ruminantes é importante para identificar a resposta animal frente às particularidades dos diferentes sistemas de produção. Entretanto, a técnica de avaliação usualmente utilizada, com intervalos de cinco minutos, requer mão de obra, dificultando sua adesão em propriedades e em pesquisas em sistemas pastoris de maior complexidade. Assim, este estudo foi realizado com os objetivos de avaliar a influência dos sistemas de produção em pastagem, silvipastoril e confinamento sobre o comportamento ingestivo de cordeiros e definir o intervalo de registro do comportamento em cada um dos sistemas. Foram utilizados 24 cordeiros distribuídos em delineamento experimental em parcelas subdivididas, sendo as parcelas os sistemas de produção (pastagem sem sombreamento, sistema silvipastoril e confinamento) e as subparcelas os intervalos de observação do comportamento (5, 10, 15 e 20 min.). Nos sistemas em pastagem sem sombreamento e silvipastoril, os cordeiros permaneceram em pastagem de capim Aruana (Megathyrsus maximus) e foram suplementados com concentrado a 1,5% do peso corporal ao dia em base de matéria seca (MS). No sistema em confinamento, os cordeiros receberam ração composta por 200 g kg MS-1 de feno de azevém anual (Lolium multiflorum Lam.) e 800 g kg MS-1 de concentrado. Não houve interação (P > 0,05) entre sistema de produção e intervalo de registro das atividades comportamentais. O tempo despendido para a ingestão de alimento foi maior (P < 0,05) no sistema de pastagem (533 min d-1) e silvipastoril (513 min d-1) em relação ao confinamento (225 min d-1), enquanto que para ingestão de água foi maior (P < 0,05) no confinamento (21 min d-1) e menor no silvipastoril (5 min d-1). Não houve diferença (P > 0,05) entre os sistemas para as atividades de ruminação e ócio, cujas médias diárias foram de 378 e 587 min d-1, respectivamente. Também não houve diferença (P > 0,05) entre os intervalos de observação para as atividades de ingestão de alimento, água, ruminação e ócio. Cordeiros em sistemas à base de pastagem gastam mais tempo se alimentando, e cordeiros confinados mais tempo ingerindo água. Cordeiros confinados ruminam tanto quanto animais em pastejo quando alimentados com feno, mesmo que este represente apenas 20% da dieta total. O intervalo de registro das atividades comportamentais nestes sistemas de produção pode ser de até 20 minutos.(AU)

Evaluation of automated monitoring calving prediction in dairy buffaloes a new tool for calving management / Avaliação do monitoramento automatizado da previsão de parto em búfalos leiteiros: uma nova ferramenta para o gerenciamento de parto

Buffalo is one of the leading milk-producing dairy animals. Its production and reproduction are affected due to some factors including inadequate monitoring around parturition, which cause economic losses like delayed birth process, increased risk of stillbirth, etc. The appropriate calving monitoring is essential for dairy herd management. Therefore, we designed a study its aim was, to predict the calving based on automated machine measured prepartum behaviors in buffaloes. The data were collected from n=40 pregnant buffaloes of 2nd to 5th parity, which was synchronized. The NEDAP neck and leg logger tag was attached to each buffalo at 30 days before calving and automatically collected feeding, rumination, lying, standing, no. of steps, no. of switches from standing to lying (lying bouts) and total motion activity. All behavioral data were reduced to -10 days before the calving date for statistical analysis to use mixed model procedure and ANOVA. Results showed that feeding and rumination time significantly (P<0.05) decreased from -10 to -1 days before calving indicating calving prediction. Moreover, Rumination time was at lowest (P<0.001) value at 2h before the calving such behavioral changes may be useful to predict calving in buffaloes. Similarly, lying bouts and standing time abruptly decreased (P<0.05) from -3 to -1 days before calving, while lying time abruptly increased (P<0.01) from -3 to -1 days before calving (531.57±23.65 to 665.62±18.14, respectively). No. of steps taken and total motion significantly (P<0.05) increased from -10 to -1 days before calving. Feeding time was significantly (P<0.02) lowered in 3rd parity buffaloes compared with 2nd, 4th and 5th parity buffaloes, while standing time of 5th parity buffaloes were lowered (P<0.05) as compared to 2nd to 4th parity buffalos at -1 day of prepartum. However, rumination, lying, no. of steps taken and total motion activity at -1 day of prepartum was independent (P>0.05) of parity in buffaloes. Neural network analysis for combined variables from NEDAP technology at the daily level yielded 100.0% sensitivity and 98% specificity. In conclusion NEDAP technology can be used to measured behavioral changes -10 day before calving as it can serve as a useful guide in the prediction calving date in the buffaloes.(AU)

O búfalo é um dos principais animais produtores de leite. Sua produção e sua reprodução são afetadas por causa de alguns fatores, incluindo o monitoramento inadequado ao redor do parto, que causam perdas econômicas, como atraso no processo de parto, aumento do risco de natimorto, etc. O monitoramento adequado do parto é essencial para o manejo do rebanho leiteiro. Portanto, projetamos um estudo cujo objetivo foi prever o parto com base em comportamentos pré-parto medidos por máquina automatizada em búfalas. Os dados foram coletados de 40 búfalas prenhes de 2ª a 5ª paridade, que foi sincronizada. A etiqueta NEDAP de pescoço e perna foi fixada em cada búfala 30 dias antes do parto e coletava dados, automaticamente, durante a alimentação e a ruminação, em posição deitada e em pé, além do número de passos, número de mudanças de pé para deitado (período deitado) e atividade de movimento total. Todos os dados comportamentais foram reduzidos para -10 dias antes da data do parto para análise estatística usando o procedimento de modelo misto e ANOVA. Os resultados mostraram que o tempo de alimentação e de ruminação diminuiu significativamente (P<0,05) de -10 dias para -1 dia antes do parto, indicando a previsão de parto. Além disso, o tempo de ruminação apresentou seu menor valor (P<0,001) 2 horas antes do parto, e tais mudanças comportamentais podem ser úteis para predizer o parto em búfalas. Da mesma forma, o período deitado e o tempo em pé diminuíram abruptamente (P<0,05) de -3 dias para -1 dia antes do parto, enquanto o tempo deitado aumentou abruptamente (P<0,01) de -3 dias para -1 dia antes do parto (531,57 ± 23,65 para 665,62± 18,14, respectivamente). O número de passos dados e o movimento total aumentaram significativamente (P<0,05) de -10 para -1 dias antes do parto. O tempo de alimentação foi significativamente (P<0,02) reduzido em búfalas de 3ª paridade em comparação com búfalas de 2ª, 4ª e 5ª paridade, enquanto o tempo de espera de búfalas de 5ª paridade foi reduzido (P<0,05) em comparação com búfalas de 2ª a 4ª paridade em -1 dia antes do parto. No entanto, ruminação, posição deitada, número de passos dados e atividade de movimento total em -1 dia antes do parto foram independentes (P>0,05) da paridade em búfalas. A análise de rede neural para variáveis ​​combinadas da tecnologia NEDAP no nível diário produziu 100% de sensibilidade e 98% de especificidade. Em conclusão, a tecnologia NEDAP pode ser usada para medir mudanças comportamentais -10 dias antes do parto, pois pode servir como um guia útil para prever a data do parto em búfalas.(AU)

Adenocarcinoma em glândula lacrimal de equino / Equine lacrimal gland adenocarcinoma

Background: Lacrimal gland adenocarcinoma is an extremely rare malignant neoplasm, with few descriptions in the literature. Therefore, its etiology and treatment are not well understood. The present study aims to report the case of an equine histologically diagnosed with lacrimal gland adenocarcinoma in the lower eyelid region and third eyelid treated by surgical excision and intralesional chemotherapy. Case: A 17-year-old male mixed-breed equine weighing 300 kg was treated in the large animal clinic and surgery sector of the Federal University of Santa Catarina in the city of Curitibanos, Santa Catarina, Brazil. The equine revealed an alert and docile temperament without considerable physiological changes in the physical examination. In the evaluation of the right eye, a tumor mass was observed in the region of the lacrimal gland adhered to the third eyelid and lower eyelid, with a light red ulcerated appearance approximately 7 cm in diameter. Therefore, the surgical excision of the adhered tumor mass was performed, with the subsequent intralesional application of 2 mL of Vincristine Sulfate. In the histopathological evaluation following the surgical excision of the tumor mass, yellowish-white fragments of irregular nodules were observed measuring from 3.5×2.0×1.7 cm to 2.0×0.5×0.3 cm, in addition to microscopy focus clusters of weakly basophilic neoplastic glandular cells, some with a randomly arranged lacy aspect, forming disorganized acinar structures and others showed marking islands of the cells organized in a palisade shape by vascular delicate stroma. The neoplastic cells presented anisocytosis, anisokaryosis, prominent nucleoli sometimes binucleated and with basophilic intracytoplasmic secretory material, delimited by scarce connective tissue. In some areas, there were small foci of infiltrated lymphocytes and plasmocytes and areas of necrosis. The mass was surrounded by connective tissue, where red blood vessels were found outside the vessels (hemorrhage), and mitoses were observed 2 per field at high magnification (40x). After the surgical procedure, it was not possible to follow up and reassess of the patient, so there is no clarification on the possibility of tumor recurrence. Discussion: The case reported is uncommon, being only the second report of adenocarcinoma in the equine lacrimal gland. Therefore, there are few descriptions in the literature about its defined etiology and the best treatment method, although, surgical excision is the method of choice because it is a tumor of high recurrence and invasiveness. In this case, we opted for the exeresis of the tumor mass and later application of chemotherapy, a treatment that was relatively effective, to avoid recurrence and the failure of the technique. In these cases, monitoring the animal after the procedure is recommended, evaluating whether there was tumor recurrence, although this was not possible in the present possible. The third eyelid, lacrimal, and zygomatic salivary glands may be sources of intraorbital neoplasms. These neoplastic processes may have similar histological and behavioral characteristics, and their differentiation is, therefore, problematic. These structures may be differentiated based on the anatomical location, however, clinical appearance and symptoms are identical in most cases. Adenocarcinoma in the equine lacrimal gland is a neoplasm considered rare, so it is important to emphasize an accurate diagnosis through histopathological analyses to differentiate it from other frequent orbital neoplasms in horses, allowing more information about this tumor and establishing different treatment methods.

Stress indicators in cattle submitted to different pre-slaughter rest times / Indicadores de estresse em bovinos submetidos a diferentes tempos de descanso no pré-abate

The objective of this study was to determine the effect of pre-slaughter time about some blood constituents used as stress indicators in the evaluation of animal welfare in cattle. In the practice of ethology, animal welfare is assessed through physiological and behavioral indicators. For the determination of serum biomarkers of animal stress, a total of 180 animals was used, divided into two major groups according to the time of pre-slaughter. In the acceptable group, the animals had a pre-slaughter time up to 24 hours and in the not acceptable group the pre-slaughter time was greater than 24 h. These two groups were split up into three animal categories (males, females and castrated males). In this study, 30 samples were collected from each animal category of the two groups, acceptable and not acceptable, totaling 180 samples. Samples were separated for analysis of muscle enzymes creatine kinase and lactate dehydrogenase (CK and LDH), glucose and cortisol. Physiological values, regardless of the animal category and pre-slaughter time, were higher than the normal values of reference, expressing the prior management effect on animal welfare. The data clearly show a need to update and adapt the entire production chain to animal welfare practices, with the objective of producing competitive quality meat in the world market.(AU)

O objetivo do estudo foi avaliar o efeito do tempo de pré-abate sobre alguns constituintes sanguíneos utilizados como indicadores de estresse na avaliação do bem-estar animal em bovinos. Na prática da etologia, o bem-estar animal é avaliado por meio de indicadores fisiológicos e comportamentais. Para a determinação sérica de biomarcadores de estresse animal utilizaram-se 180 animais, divididos em dois grupos de acordo com o tempo de pré-abate: até 24 horas ou acima de 24 horas. Esses dois grupos subdividiram-se em três categorias animais (machos não-castrados, machos castrados ou fêmeas). Foram coletadas 30 amostras de cada categoria animal nos dois grupos, totalizando 180 amostras. Foram separadas amostras para análise de enzimas musculares creatina quinase e lactato desidrogenase (CK e LDH), glicose e cortisol. Os valores fisiológicos, independentemente da categoria animal e do tempo de pré-abate, foram superiores aos valores de referência, expressando o efeito do manejo prévio sobre o bem-estar dos animais. Os dados evidenciam claramente a necessidade de atualização e adequação de toda a cadeia produtiva às práticas de bem-estar animal, com o objetivo de produzir carne de qualidade competitiva no mercado mundial.(AU)

Libido and serving skills of Zebu cattle bulls / Libido e habilidade física em touros zebuínos

The goal of this study was to evaluate the rejection rates of Zebu bulls during behavioral assessment (libido and serving ability) and the importance of this step in bull breeding soundness evaluation (BBSE). A totalof 1,534 bulls reared in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, of Nelore (1,340), Brahman (76), Guzerá (98), and Tabapuã (210) breeds were evaluated. The evaluation consisted of four steps. Step I was the general physical examination, Step II genital tract examination, Step III semen evaluation, and Step IV behavioral assessment of libido and the ability to complete copulation. To evaluate the relationship between the binary variables of approved or rejected during different steps of the BBSE, and age groups (young and mature bulls), chi-square tests and logistic regression were used. The general rejection rates in the BBSE were 5.64% and 15.20% for young and mature Zebu bulls, respectively. Problems with the sexual behavior (libido and/or serving ability) of bulls accounted for the rejection of 0.46% and 2.29% of young and mature Zebubulls, respectively. The lack of libido and serving ability was shown to be an important problem concerning the total number of possible causes of Zebu bull rejection during the BBSE. This result suggests that the behavioral step should be performed regularly, rather than being complementary to the standard BBSE in Zebu cattle.

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar as taxas de reprovação de touros zebuínos durante a avaliação comportamental (libido e habilidade física) e a importância desta etapa no Exame Andrológico em Touros (EAT). Foram avaliados 1.534 touros, criados no estado do Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil, das raças Nelore(1.340), Brahman (76), Guzerá (98) e Tabapuã (210). A avaliação constou de quatro etapas. Etapa I foi o exame físico geral, Etapa II o exame do trato genital, Etapa III a avaliação do sêmen, e a Etapa IV a avaliação comportamental de libido e habilidade física para completar a cópula. Para avaliar a relação entre a variável binária aprovado ou reprovado durante as diferentes etapas do exame andrológico e as faixas etárias (touros jovens e adultos), foram utilizados os testes de qui-quadrado e de regressão logística. As taxas gerais de reprovação no EAT foram de 5,64% e 15,20% para os touros Zebu jovens e adultos, respectivamente. Problemas no comportamento sexual (libido e/ou habilidade física) dos touros foram responsáveis pela reprovação de 0,46% e 2,29% dos touros zebuínos jovens e adultos, respectivamente. A falta de libido e de habilidade física mostrou-se um problema importante em relação ao número total de possíveis causas de reprovação de touros zebuínos no EAT. Esse resultado sugere que a etapa comportamental deve ser realizada regularmente, ao invés de ser apenas complementar ao EAT padrão em bovinos zebuínos.

Libido and serving skills of Zebu cattle bulls / Libido e habilidade física em touros zebuínos

The goal of this study was to evaluate the rejection rates of Zebu bulls during behavioral assessment (libido and serving ability) and the importance of this step in bull breeding soundness evaluation (BBSE). A totalof 1,534 bulls reared in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, of Nelore (1,340), Brahman (76), Guzerá (98), and Tabapuã (210) breeds were evaluated. The evaluation consisted of four steps. Step I was the general physical examination, Step II genital tract examination, Step III semen evaluation, and Step IV behavioral assessment of libido and the ability to complete copulation. To evaluate the relationship between the binary variables of approved or rejected during different steps of the BBSE, and age groups (young and mature bulls), chi-square tests and logistic regression were used. The general rejection rates in the BBSE were 5.64% and 15.20% for young and mature Zebu bulls, respectively. Problems with the sexual behavior (libido and/or serving ability) of bulls accounted for the rejection of 0.46% and 2.29% of young and mature Zebubulls, respectively. The lack of libido and serving ability was shown to be an important problem concerning the total number of possible causes of Zebu bull rejection during the BBSE. This result suggests that the behavioral step should be performed regularly, rather than being complementary to the standard BBSE in Zebu cattle.(AU)

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar as taxas de reprovação de touros zebuínos durante a avaliação comportamental (libido e habilidade física) e a importância desta etapa no Exame Andrológico em Touros (EAT). Foram avaliados 1.534 touros, criados no estado do Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil, das raças Nelore(1.340), Brahman (76), Guzerá (98) e Tabapuã (210). A avaliação constou de quatro etapas. Etapa I foi o exame físico geral, Etapa II o exame do trato genital, Etapa III a avaliação do sêmen, e a Etapa IV a avaliação comportamental de libido e habilidade física para completar a cópula. Para avaliar a relação entre a variável binária aprovado ou reprovado durante as diferentes etapas do exame andrológico e as faixas etárias (touros jovens e adultos), foram utilizados os testes de qui-quadrado e de regressão logística. As taxas gerais de reprovação no EAT foram de 5,64% e 15,20% para os touros Zebu jovens e adultos, respectivamente. Problemas no comportamento sexual (libido e/ou habilidade física) dos touros foram responsáveis pela reprovação de 0,46% e 2,29% dos touros zebuínos jovens e adultos, respectivamente. A falta de libido e de habilidade física mostrou-se um problema importante em relação ao número total de possíveis causas de reprovação de touros zebuínos no EAT. Esse resultado sugere que a etapa comportamental deve ser realizada regularmente, ao invés de ser apenas complementar ao EAT padrão em bovinos zebuínos.(AU)

Behavior of horses kept in different types of stalls in the semiarid region of Minas Gerais, Brazil

The objective of this study was to evaluate the feeding and agonistic behavior of Quarter Horses kept in different types of stalls in the semiarid region of Minas Gerais. A completely randomized design with two treatments (two types of stalls) and seven replicates (seven days of evaluation) was used. Four Quarter Horse mares and four stallions were used per treatment. Behavioral observations were made at 10-minute intervals for 24 hours. The stall environment was characterized by the following variables: air temperature, relative humidity, and black globe temperature for subsequent estimation of the wet-bulb globe temperature. Feeding behavior variables included: time spent eating concentrate and time spent eating roughage (hours), bite rate (bites/min), and the number of daily bites (bites/day). Zinc-roofed stalls had higher air temperatures than clay-roofed stalls and the external environment, averaging 28.2, 27.0, and 27.4 ºC, respectively, while relative humidity was significantly lower in the external environment (65.80%). Horses housed in zinc-roofed stalls had longer feeding times (8.32 h) than animals kept in clay-roofed stalls (7.22 h). Approximately 94% of the total feeding time was spent eating roughage and 73% of the time was spent resting and walking, regardless of the covering type. Although environmental variables showed thermal discomfort, the roofing material did not alter the feeding behavior of stabled horses in the semiarid region of Minas Gerais, suggesting an adaptation to the studied conditions. The feeding frequency should be increased to avoid a long resting time.(AU)

Behavior of horses kept in different types of stalls in the semiarid region of Minas Gerais, Brazil

The objective of this study was to evaluate the feeding and agonistic behavior of Quarter Horses kept in different types of stalls in the semiarid region of Minas Gerais. A completely randomized design with two treatments (two types of stalls) and seven replicates (seven days of evaluation) was used. Four Quarter Horse mares and four stallions were used per treatment. Behavioral observations were made at 10-minute intervals for 24 hours. The stall environment was characterized by the following variables: air temperature, relative humidity, and black globe temperature for subsequent estimation of the wet-bulb globe temperature. Feeding behavior variables included: time spent eating concentrate and time spent eating roughage (hours), bite rate (bites/min), and the number of daily bites (bites/day). Zinc-roofed stalls had higher air temperatures than clay-roofed stalls and the external environment, averaging 28.2, 27.0, and 27.4 ºC, respectively, while relative humidity was significantly lower in the external environment (65.80%). Horses housed in zinc-roofed stalls had longer feeding times (8.32 h) than animals kept in clay-roofed stalls (7.22 h). Approximately 94% of the total feeding time was spent eating roughage and 73% of the time was spent resting and walking, regardless of the covering type. Although environmental variables showed thermal discomfort, the roofing material did not alter the feeding behavior of stabled horses in the semiarid region of Minas Gerais, suggesting an adaptation to the studied conditions. The feeding frequency should be increased to avoid a long resting time.

Uso e perspectivas da eletroencefalografia em animais domésticos / Use and perspectives of electroencephalography in domestic animals

A eletroencefalografia (EEG) é um método utilizado para a análise da atividade elétrica cerebral de humanos e animais. Possui baixo custo e métodos já estudados para as principais espécies de animais domésticos, tais como cães, gatos, equinos e bovinos. É um método minimamente invasivo que, ao ser associado com exames de avaliação estrutural, tais como a ressonância magnética e tomografia, permite elaborar um cenário mais completo sobre o estado geral do tecido neural cerebral. Sua aquisição de dados ao longo do tempo permite avaliar pacientes com epilepsia idiopática, epilepsias estruturais, metabólicas, hidrocefalia congênita e realizar monitoramento anestésico. O conhecimento de pós-processamento de sinais utilizando-se de FFT abre um universo de possibilidades para o uso da EEG, incluindo a polissonografia, avaliação de distúrbios comportamentais, neuropsíquicos, dor, cognição e aprendizagem.

Electroencephalography (EEG) is a method used to analyze the electrical activity of the brain in humans and animals. It has low cost and methods already studied for the main species of domestic animals, such as dogs, cats, horses, and cattle. It is a minimally invasive method that, when associated with structural assessment tests such as MRI and CT, allows for a more complete picture of the general state of brain neural tissue. Its data acquisition over time allows the evaluation of patients with idiopathic epilepsy, structural epilepsies, metabolic epilepsies, congenital hydrocephalus, and to perform anesthesia monitoring. The knowledge of signal post-processing using FFT opens a universe of possibilities for the use of EEG, including polysomnography, evaluation of behavioral and neuropsychiatric disorders, pain, cognition, and learning.

Uso e perspectivas da eletroencefalografia em animais domésticos / Use and perspectives of electroencephalography in domestic animals

A eletroencefalografia (EEG) é um método utilizado para a análise da atividade elétrica cerebral de humanos e animais. Possui baixo custo e métodos já estudados para as principais espécies de animais domésticos, tais como cães, gatos, equinos e bovinos. É um método minimamente invasivo que, ao ser associado com exames de avaliação estrutural, tais como a ressonância magnética e tomografia, permite elaborar um cenário mais completo sobre o estado geral do tecido neural cerebral. Sua aquisição de dados ao longo do tempo permite avaliar pacientes com epilepsia idiopática, epilepsias estruturais, metabólicas, hidrocefalia congênita e realizar monitoramento anestésico. O conhecimento de pós-processamento de sinais utilizando-se de FFT abre um universo de possibilidades para o uso da EEG, incluindo a polissonografia, avaliação de distúrbios comportamentais, neuropsíquicos, dor, cognição e aprendizagem.(AU)

Electroencephalography (EEG) is a method used to analyze the electrical activity of the brain in humans and animals. It has low cost and methods already studied for the main species of domestic animals, such as dogs, cats, horses, and cattle. It is a minimally invasive method that, when associated with structural assessment tests such as MRI and CT, allows for a more complete picture of the general state of brain neural tissue. Its data acquisition over time allows the evaluation of patients with idiopathic epilepsy, structural epilepsies, metabolic epilepsies, congenital hydrocephalus, and to perform anesthesia monitoring. The knowledge of signal post-processing using FFT opens a universe of possibilities for the use of EEG, including polysomnography, evaluation of behavioral and neuropsychiatric disorders, pain, cognition, and learning.(AU)

Use of the rumination profile through collar sensors for mastitis diagnosis in dairy cows

Background: Mastitis is an inflammatory disease of the mammary gland, mostly associated with bacterial infections. Itis responsible for great economic losses due to decreased milk yield, discarded milk, milk composition alterations andtreatment costs, besides it impairs the animal health and welfare. The rumination time is an important behavioral markerand its assessment can be used as an early diagnosis tool, which can improve cure rate. Therefore, the aim of the presentstudy was to evaluate the sensitivity of behavior monitoring system collars in the diagnosis of mastitis and the averagerumination time (RT) of Holstein cows during the healthy period and affected by the disease.Materials, Methods & Results: The study was conducted on a commercial property located in the municipality of RioGrande, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. The RT data from 39 multiparous Holstein cows with an average milk yield of 38.4 L/day was collected. RT monitoring was performed using C-Tech1 collars combined with CowMed® software, which assessbehavior data from the animals and emits warning signals when it finds abnormalities in any parameter. In order to verifywhether the animals were determined correlated with diseases, the sensitivity of the data was evaluated, when the systemhad given the alert to animals considered ill, they underwent to a further clinical evaluation performed by a veterinarian toconfirm the diagnosis. From the diagnosis, the cows were divided into subclinical mastitis (SM) and clinical mastitis (CM)groups. SM was detected by the California Mastitis Test (CMT) and cows that were graded 1 (++), 2 (++) or 3 (+++) withoutthe presence of any other clinical sign were assigned to the SM group. CM was assessed by observation of abnormalitiesin milk such as changes in color and consistency, as well as the presence of lumps, clots or blood; and clinical examinationof the udder was performed for detection of hot, hard, swollen or painful quarters...

Use of the rumination profile through collar sensors for mastitis diagnosis in dairy cows

Background: Mastitis is an inflammatory disease of the mammary gland, mostly associated with bacterial infections. Itis responsible for great economic losses due to decreased milk yield, discarded milk, milk composition alterations andtreatment costs, besides it impairs the animal health and welfare. The rumination time is an important behavioral markerand its assessment can be used as an early diagnosis tool, which can improve cure rate. Therefore, the aim of the presentstudy was to evaluate the sensitivity of behavior monitoring system collars in the diagnosis of mastitis and the averagerumination time (RT) of Holstein cows during the healthy period and affected by the disease.Materials, Methods & Results: The study was conducted on a commercial property located in the municipality of RioGrande, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. The RT data from 39 multiparous Holstein cows with an average milk yield of 38.4 L/day was collected. RT monitoring was performed using C-Tech1 collars combined with CowMed® software, which assessbehavior data from the animals and emits warning signals when it finds abnormalities in any parameter. In order to verifywhether the animals were determined correlated with diseases, the sensitivity of the data was evaluated, when the systemhad given the alert to animals considered ill, they underwent to a further clinical evaluation performed by a veterinarian toconfirm the diagnosis. From the diagnosis, the cows were divided into subclinical mastitis (SM) and clinical mastitis (CM)groups. SM was detected by the California Mastitis Test (CMT) and cows that were graded 1 (++), 2 (++) or 3 (+++) withoutthe presence of any other clinical sign were assigned to the SM group. CM was assessed by observation of abnormalitiesin milk such as changes in color and consistency, as well as the presence of lumps, clots or blood; and clinical examinationof the udder was performed for detection of hot, hard, swollen or painful quarters...(AU)

Clinical approach for treating dilated cardiomyopathy in a hog-nosed skunk (Conepatus chinga)

Background: Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a multifactorial disease characterized by systolic dysfunction of myocardium, affecting domestic animals like dogs, cats, and ferrets. It was sporadically described in non-domestic species, generally as a necropsy observation. The hog-nosed skunk (Conepatus chinga) is a small mammal, carnivore, belonging to the Mephitidae family, found in southern South America, and considered as concerned in a conservation status of the species. The goal of this issue is report the first clinical approach of dilated cardiomyopathy in a young hog-nosed skunk, elucidating the challenging aspects of the diagnostic, therapy, and clinical outcome. Case: A newborn hog-nosed skunk (Conepatus chinga) was found in a farm of southern Brazil in poor nutritional and behavioral conditions. Thirty days of nutritional supplementation based on cow's milk, fruits and insects were necessary to recover its body weight score and activity level. However, 2 months after adoption, the skunk showed acute dyspnea and abnormal breath sound, decreased appetite, and loss of weight. Firstly, these signs were associated with a possible pulmonary infection or other respiratory disease. However, the general cardiomegaly and pulmonary edema pattern observed on the thoracic radiography, changed the clinical approach, conducting the presumptive diagnosis to congestive heart failure (pulmonary edema) caused by an unknown cardiac disease as a dilated cardiomyopathy (CDM). An adequate physical, echocardiographic, electrocardiographic, and hematological evaluation was possible only after chemical restraint by sevofluorane. Systolic heart murmur and pulmonary cracking sounds were detected on thoracic auscultation. These findings associated to the echocardiography features of four chamber dilatation, systolic (fractional shortening-FS = 9% and ejection fraction-EF= 22%) and diastolic (mitral E/A ratio = 4.93) dysfunctions, and bilateral ventriculoatrial regurgitation (mitral and tricuspid) were highly correlated with DCM. Considering the etiologies of CDM described in domestic species and the poor nutritional condition previously observed in the case, nutritional and idiopathic etiologies of DCM were considered for this case. Therapy was based on furosemide at hospital (4 mg/kg subcutaneous, single doses) and home (2 mg/kg orally, BID), enalapril maleate (0.5 mg/kg orally, every 48 h), taurine supplementation (100 mg orally, SID), and pimobendan (0.5 mg/kg orally, BID). Clinical improvement was already observed on the second day of treatment, and monitored for 5 months, when the skunk was completely revaluated. The second echocardiographic exam showed improvement in systolic (FS = 20% and EF = 43%) and diastolic functions (mitral E/A ratio = 2.05), tricuspid regurgitation was not observed, and decrease the left atrial and ventricular dimensions were seen. Due to good clinical outcome, furosemide was gradually reduced until complete withdrawal without any clinical complications or worsening. After 30 months of therapy of pimobendan, taurine, and enalapril maleate, the skunk has good quality captive life without congestive heart failure recurrence. Discussion: The lack of information about DCM in hog-nosed skunk turns the clinical diagnosis and therapy challenging. However, the radiographic and echocardiographic features seamed to lead the same domestic animal patterns. The therapy based on decrease the cardiac overload, increase the myocardial inotropic function (pimobendan and taurine) resulted on excellent clinical and echocardiographic outcome. Although the etiologies of DCM in this species are not stablished, the diagnostic and therapeutic approaches applied resulted on excellent clinical results, and therefore may provide useful information about this cardiac condition in skunk species.

Cenurose em ovino com sinais neurológicos - diagnóstico com tomografia computadorizada / Cenurosis in a sheep with neurological signs - diagnosis with computed tomography

Background: Cenurosis is a parasitic disease caused by Coenurus cerebralis, an intermediate form of Taenia multiceps multiceps, causing a fatal disease in production animals. Its adult form (Taenia) lodges in the small intestine of canids and can infect several intermediate hosts. Sheep are the main species affected by the disease, having nervous symptoms as one of its manifestations. This study aimed to describe the changes observed in computed tomography, as well as the clinical findings of a case of Cenurosis in a sheep on the western border of Rio Grande do Sul. Case: A ram was referred to the Centro Universitário da Região da Campanha (URCAMP) with neurological signs. Clinical, hematological, radiographic, tomographic and necroscopic evaluation of the animal was performed. There were no significant hematological and radiographic changes. During the neurological examination, corneal opacity was found in the right eyeball, associated with a visual deficit in the same eye. Also, when stimulated to move, it was possible to observe ataxia with ambulation to the left side, with right lateral displacement of the head. The tomography showed a hypodense area of approximately 3 cm at the base of the brain, in the region of the thalamus and third ventricle. Macroscopically, a translucent spherical cyst with approximately 4 cm in diameter was observed, containing the protoescolex/scolices of Taenia multiceps in the same region. Discussion: Computed tomography identified the presence of an apparently circular volume of approximately 4 cm in diameter, causing ventricular dilatation. This evidence of ventricular dilation corroborates aspects described in the literature, which found bilateral dilation of the ventricles by compression promoted by a cyst in the 4th ventricle. As the location of the cyst was located at the base of the brain, in the region of the third ventricle, it would be difficult to perform the surgery in the treatment of this case. Signs of ataxia, walking movements, decreased reflexes, nystagmus, unilateral blindness and lateral decubitus are commonly observed. Reports described that the main neurological alterations observed in 20 sheep with cenurosis were postural deficit, locomotion alteration, visual deficit and behavioral alterations, with more than 50% of the animals showing at least one of these signs. The main neurological signs observed in the case described were changes in gait, with walking, blindness, lateral head deviation and ataxia. These signs guide the clinical diagnosis of cenurosis. At necropsy, a spherical translucent cyst with approximately 4 cm in diameter was observed, containing the protoescolex/scolices of Taenia multiceps, which extended dorsally from the third ventricle to the base of the thalamus, laterally displaced to the right side. Rostrocaudal the lesion extended rostrally across the entire length of the thalamus to the beginning of the caudate nucleus and caudally to the base of the caudal colliculus, causing compression of the adjacent parenchyma, enabling the diagnosis of cenurosis. Similar findings are described as Coenurus cerebralis. This lesion pattern macroscopically characterizes the parasite lesions. Thus, it is concluded that the visualization of a hypodense area in CNS regions of sheep with neurological signs allows the diagnosis of cenurosis and precise location of the lesion. The description of this case adds information so that other professionals in the field can be successful in diagnosing the disease.