Interatrial septal aneurysm associated with patent foramen ovale in a dog - case report / Aneurisma de septo interatrial associado a forame oval patente em cão - relato de caso

Atrial septal aneurysm (ASA) is a rare congenital deformity of variable clinical relevance, often reported in association with patent foramen ovale (PFO). Transthoracic Doppler echocardiography (TTE) is the first choice for diagnosis, but complementary techniques, such as microbubble contrast, should be used. Despite its importance, in Veterinary Medicine, there is little information related to the subject, and the present study is the second report of this condition in dogs. The objective was to report a case of ASA type IV LR associated with PFO in a Shar Pei bitch, diagnosed by a combined approach of transthoracic echocardiography backed by agitated saline solution (microbubbles). During clinical care, the owners reported episodes of seizures as their main complaint. Echocardiographic examination revealed a type 4 LR atrial septal aneurysm and left ventricular systolic dysfunction. The use of microbubble contrast showed right-to-left shunt, confirming PFO. The recommended treatment was medication. It was concluded that the rarity of ASA in dogs may be due to incomplete diagnoses and the transthoracic echocardiographic examination allows its analysis and classification. Furthermore, ASA can be found in animals with or without evidence of heart disease and it should be investigated in patients with neurological alterations.

O aneurisma do septo atrial (ASA) é uma rara deformidade congênita, de relevância clínica variável, frequentemente relatado em associação a forame oval patente (PFO). O ecodopplercardiograma transtorácico (TTE) é a primeira escolha para o diagnóstico, mas técnicas complementares, como o contraste por microbolhas, devem ser utilizadas. Apesar da importância, em medicina veterinária existe uma carência de informações relacionadas ao tema, sendo esse o segundo relato dessa condição em cão. Objetivou-se relatar um caso de ASA tipo IV LR, associado a PFO, em uma cadela Shar Pei, diagnosticado por uma abordagem combinada por ecodopplercardiograma transtorácico e costrastado com solução salina agitada (microbolhas). Ao atendimento clínico, os proprietários relataram, como queixa principal, episódios de crises convulsivas. O exame ecocardiográfico revelou aneurisma de septo atrial tipo 4 LR e disfunção sistólica em ventriculo esquerdo. A utilização de contraste por microbolhas constatou shunt direita-esquerda, confirmando PFO. O tratamento recomendado foi medicamentoso. Concluiu-se que a raridade do ASA em cães pode ser devido a diagnósticos incompletos, e o exame ecocardiográfico transtorácico permite sua análise e classificação. Ainda, ASA pode ser encontrado em animais com ou sem evidências de cardiopatia e sua investigação deve ser feita em pacientes com alterações neurológicas.

Partial pericardial agenesis in a dog

Pericardial defects are considered rare in animals and humans. Pericardial agenesis is characterized by partial or total pericardial sac malformation. Here is reported a case of apical partial pericardial agenesis in an adult mixed-breed male dog referred for necropsy. The pericardial sac was absent from the apical region up to the middle area of the ventricles resulting in a bilateral ventricular compression by the remaining pericardium changed the organ conformation. Microscopically, there was evidence of neutrophilic and hemorrhagic myocarditis with cardiomyocyte atrophy and interstitial fibrosis. Agenesis is often a subclinical disorder, and it is an incidental postmortem finding in most cases; however, it can cause complications in cases of cardiac structure herniation.(AU)

Electrocardiographic findings in dogs with obstructive airway diseases / Achados eletrocardiográficos em cães com doenças obstrutivas das vias aéreas

Cardiac rhythm disorders are diagnosed through electrocardiography, which is an important tool to investigate other systemic conditions that may be related to the cardiac conduction system. Cardiac regulation is controlled by the autonomic nervous system, and in dogs, it is mainly modulated by a parasympathetic action exerted by the vagus nerve, called vagal tone. Increased vagal tone can occur physiologically or pathologically, leading to the occurrence of bradyarrhythmias. However, some studies report that airway diseases can exacerbate this tone, together with the reduction of sympathetic pathway activities. This study aimed to analyze the cardiac rhythms in dogs presenting with electrocardiographic alterations related to respiratory diseases, in connection with the exacerbation of vagal tone. Medical records of animals whose diagnoses involved at least one respiratory condition and who underwent electrocardiographic assessment between March 2017 to March 2021 were compiled. Data obtained were compiled in Microsoft Excel®1 spreadsheets and evaluated using descriptive statistics through the BioEstat®2 software. Pearson's correlation was used for quantitative data. A correlation between autonomic regulation and vagal exacerbation was observed in cases with obstructive airways diseases.(AU)

Os distúrbios do ritmo cardíaco são diagnosticados por meio da eletrocardiografia, que é uma importante ferra-menta para investigar outras condições sistêmicas que podem estar relacionadas ao sistema de condução cardíaco. A regulação cardíaca é controlada pelo sistema nervoso autônomo e, em cães, é modulada principalmente pela ação parassimpática exer-cida pelo nervo vago, denominada tônus vagal. O aumento do tônus vagal pode ocorrer fisiologicamente ou patologicamente, levando à ocorrência de bradiarritmias. No entanto, alguns estudos relatam que as doenças das vias aéreas podem exacerbar esse tônus, juntamente com a redução das atividades das vias simpáticas. Este estudo teve como objetivo analisar os ritmos cardíacos em cães com alterações eletrocardiográficas relacionadas a doenças respiratórias, relacionadas à exacerbação do tônus vagal. Foram compilados os prontuários dos animais cujos diagnósticos envolvessem pelo menos uma condição respiratória e que realizaram avaliação eletrocardiográfica, no período entre março de 2017 a março de 2021. Os dados obtidos foram com-pilados em planilhas do Microsoft Excel®1 e avaliados por meio de estatística descritiva por meio do software BioEstat®2. A correlação de Pearson foi usada para dados quantitativos. Foi observada correlação entre regulação autonômica e exacerbação vagal em casos com doenças obstrutivas das vias aéreas.(AU)

Echocardiographic diagnosis of interventricular septum defect with Eisenmenger syndrome in an adult dog - case report / Diagnóstico ecocardiográfico de defeito do septo interventricularcom agravo de síndrome de Eisenmenger em cão adulto ­ relato de caso

Interventricular septal defect (IVSD) is a congenital heart disease characterized by communication or non-closure of the interventricular septum in the embryonic or postnatal period, causing a failure in the separation between the systemic and pulmonary circulation. The severity of the hemodynamic consequences depends on the extent of the defect and the magnitude of the flow through it. Blood flow commonly occurs from left to right, because systemic vascular resistance is greater than pulmonary resistance. This report describes the echocardiographic findings in a 4-year-old male Poodle treated at the Veterinary Hospital with a history of exercise intolerance, cyanosis and episodes of syncope. On echocardiography, perimembranous IVSD was diagnosed with atrial and right ventricular dilatation, discontinuity of the interventricular septum in the subaortic region measuring approximately 5 mm. In the Doppler evaluation, reverse turbulent flow was evidenced, characterizing shunt from right to left (Eisenmenger syndrome). Despite preserved systolic function, abnormal relaxation was observed. Doppler echocardiography was a fundamental complementary imaging test for the diagnosis of this congenital heart disease since its suspicion is not commonly raised in adult patients. Doppler echocardiography allowed us to identify the defect, define its size and extension, determine the direction of blood flow as well as its hemodynamic consequences.(AU)

O defeito do septo interventricular (DSIV) é uma cardiopatia congênita caracterizada pela comunicação ou não fechamento do septo interventricular no período embrionário ou pós-natal, causando falha na separação entre a circulação sis-têmica e pulmonar. A gravidade das consequências hemodinâmicas depende da extensão do defeito e da magnitude do fluxo através dele. O fluxo sanguíneo comumente ocorre da esquerda para a direita, porque a resistência vascular sistêmica é maior do que a pulmonar. Este relato descreve os achados ecocardiográficos em um Poodle, macho, de 4 anos atendido no Hospital Veterinário com história de intolerância ao exercício, cianose e episódios de síncope. Ao ecocardiograma foi diagnosticado DSIV do tipo perimembranoso com dilatação atrial e ventricular direita, descontinuidade do septo interventricular em região subaórtica medindo aproximadamente 5 mm. Na avaliação Doppler, evidenciou-se fluxo turbulento reverso, caracterizando shunt da direita para a esquerda (síndrome de Eisenmenger). Apesar da função sistólica preservada, foi observado relaxamento anormal. A ecocardiografia Doppler foi um exame de imagem complementar fundamental para o diagnóstico dessa cardio-patia congênita, uma vez que sua suspeita não é comumente levantada em pacientes adultos. A ecocardiografia Doppler per-mitiu identificar o defeito, definir seu tamanho e extensão, determinar a direção do fluxo sanguíneo, bem como suas conse-quências hemodinâmicas.(AU)

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

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

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

Major cardiac defects in cattle in southern Brazil: retrospective study of necropsies over 20 years (2000-2019) / Principais defeitos cardíacos em bovinos no sul do Brasil: estudo retrospectivo de necropsias em 20 anos (2000-2019)

Cardiac malformations are reported to be relatively rare in bovine species, with ventricular septal defects being the most common abnormality observed predominantly in young calves. This report aims to describe the cardiac malformations observed in bovids and review the literature related to those malformations in this species. The necropsy reports of 1,783 bovids were reviewed, and 0.4% were diagnosed with a cardiac congenital defect. The most common cardiac congenital malformation detected in this study was ventricular septal defect, observed alone or associated with other anomalies (in one case, as part of tetralogy of Fallot); followed by atrial septal defect, also alone or with other cardiac malformations. Secondary findings in the lungs and liver were observed in 75% of all cases. Histologic cardiac lesions were identified in 25% of all cases, characterized mainly by fibrosis. Other congenital malformations in different organs were observed in 25% of the cases. Considering the importance of cardiac congenital malformations observed in this study, these conditions should be considered as a differential diagnosis for calves who died with no specific clinical signs. Furthermore, macroscopic evaluation is crucial for the diagnosis of cardiac congenital malformations.

Malformações cardíacas são descritas como relativamente raras para bovinos, e defeitos do septo interventricular são as anomalias mais observadas em bezerros. O objetivo deste artigo é descrever os casos de malformações cardíacas observadas em bovinos e uma revisão de literatura sobre estas malformações nesta espécie. Os relatórios de necropsia de 1.783 bovinos foram revisados, e 0,4% destes foram diagnosticados com defeitos cardíacos congênitos. A malformação cardíaca congênita mais diagnosticada neste estudo foi defeito do septo interventricular, observado sozinho ou associado a outras anomalias (em um caso de tetralogia de Fallot); seguida de defeito no septo interatrial, também observado sozinho ou juntamente com outras malformações cardíacas. Lesões secundárias nos pulmões e fígado foram observadas em 75% dos casos. As alterações histológicas no coração, visualizadas em 25% dos casos, foram caracterizadas principalmente por fibrose. Outras malformações congênitas em diferentes órgãos foram identificadas em 25% dos casos. Considerando a importância de malformações cardíacas congênitas observadas neste estudo, estas condições devem ser consideradas como diagnósticos diferenciais para bezerros que morrem sem sinais clínicos específicos. Adicionalmente, a avaliação macroscópica é fundamental para o diagnóstico de malformações cardíacas congênitas.

Major cardiac defects in cattle in southern Brazil: retrospective study of necropsies over 20 years (2000-2019) / Principais defeitos cardíacos em bovinos no sul do Brasil: estudo retrospectivo de necropsias em 20 anos (2000-2019)

Cardiac malformations are reported to be relatively rare in bovine species, with ventricular septal defects being the most common abnormality observed predominantly in young calves. This report aims to describe the cardiac malformations observed in bovids and review the literature related to those malformations in this species. The necropsy reports of 1,783 bovids were reviewed, and 0.4% were diagnosed with a cardiac congenital defect. The most common cardiac congenital malformation detected in this study was ventricular septal defect, observed alone or associated with other anomalies (in one case, as part of tetralogy of Fallot); followed by atrial septal defect, also alone or with other cardiac malformations. Secondary findings in the lungs and liver were observed in 75% of all cases. Histologic cardiac lesions were identified in 25% of all cases, characterized mainly by fibrosis. Other congenital malformations in different organs were observed in 25% of the cases. Considering the importance of cardiac congenital malformations observed in this study, these conditions should be considered as a differential diagnosis for calves who died with no specific clinical signs. Furthermore, macroscopic evaluation is crucial for the diagnosis of cardiac congenital malformations.(AU)

Malformações cardíacas são descritas como relativamente raras para bovinos, e defeitos do septo interventricular são as anomalias mais observadas em bezerros. O objetivo deste artigo é descrever os casos de malformações cardíacas observadas em bovinos e uma revisão de literatura sobre estas malformações nesta espécie. Os relatórios de necropsia de 1.783 bovinos foram revisados, e 0,4% destes foram diagnosticados com defeitos cardíacos congênitos. A malformação cardíaca congênita mais diagnosticada neste estudo foi defeito do septo interventricular, observado sozinho ou associado a outras anomalias (em um caso de tetralogia de Fallot); seguida de defeito no septo interatrial, também observado sozinho ou juntamente com outras malformações cardíacas. Lesões secundárias nos pulmões e fígado foram observadas em 75% dos casos. As alterações histológicas no coração, visualizadas em 25% dos casos, foram caracterizadas principalmente por fibrose. Outras malformações congênitas em diferentes órgãos foram identificadas em 25% dos casos. Considerando a importância de malformações cardíacas congênitas observadas neste estudo, estas condições devem ser consideradas como diagnósticos diferenciais para bezerros que morrem sem sinais clínicos específicos. Adicionalmente, a avaliação macroscópica é fundamental para o diagnóstico de malformações cardíacas congênitas.(AU)

Clinical and anatomopathological descriptions of dog with arterious Hemitruncus: case report / [Descrições clínicas e anatomopatológicas de cão com hemitruncus arterioso: relato de caso

The anomalous origin of the pulmonary trunk in the ascending aorta, defined as arterious hemitruncus, is a rare congenital malformation in dogs, caused by a defect in the spiral septum. Thus, given the unusual occurrence in the canine species, the systemic severity and the high lethality, the aim of this study was to describe this heart disease in a three-month-old male German Spitz puppy, emphasizing clinical changes of the necropsy and microscopics. The animal had cyanosis, dyspnea and weakness and was forwarded for necropsy after sudden death. Numerous changes were detected in the post-mortem examination, including in the heart, as cardiomegaly and absence of the arterial ligament, which was replaced by the complete fusion between the ascending aorta and the pulmonary trunk, after leaving both the left and right ventricles, respectively and, among the microscopic findings, cardiomyocyte hypertrophy stood out. The association of these findings with the history indicated the diagnosis of arterious hemitruncus followed by cardiorespiratory failure, emphasizing the importance of out complementary cardiological exams in young symptomatic patients for the survival of those affected. Arterious hemitruncus, although rare, must be added in the differential diagnosis of other heart diseases that cause similar clinical signs.(AU)

A origem anômala do tronco pulmonar em aorta ascendente, definida como hemitruncus arterioso, é uma malformação congênita rara em cães, causada por defeito no septo espiral. Assim, diante da ocorrência incomum na espécie canina, da gravidade sistêmica e da alta letalidade, o objetivo deste trabalho foi descrever essa doença cardíaca em um filhote de três meses de idade, macho, Spitz Alemão, enfatizando as alterações clínicas, de necropsia e microscópicas. O animal apresentava cianose, dispneia e fraqueza e foi encaminhado para necropsia após morte súbita. Inúmeras alterações foram detectadas no exame post-mortem, inclusive no coração, como cardiomegalia e ausência do ligamento arterioso, o qual foi substituído pela fusão completa entre aorta ascendente e tronco pulmonar, após a saída de ambas dos ventrículos esquerdo e direito, respectivamente, e, dentre os achados microscópicos, destacou-se a hipertrofia de cardiomiócitos. A associação desses achados com o histórico indicou o diagnóstico de hemitruncus arterioso seguido de insuficiência cardiorrespiratória, ressaltando-se a importância de exames complementares cardiológicos em pacientes jovens sintomáticos na sobrevida dos acometidos. O hemitruncus arterioso, apesar de raro, deve ser acrescido no diagnóstico diferencial de outras cardiopatias que causam sinais clínicos similares.(AU)

Congestive heart failure in a young cat with excessive moderator bands (false tendons) in the left ventricle / Insuficiência cardíaca congestiva em um gato jovem com bandas moderadoras excessivas (falsos tendões) em ventrículo esquerdo

Left ventricular false tendons are fibrous or fibromuscular bands that transverse the ventricular cavity and have no attachment to the mitral valve in many species. In cats it is considered a congenital defect that is rarely related to clinical disease and death in adult cats. A 45 days-old mixed breed cat had a history of inappetence since birth. At the physical exam the patient was lethargic and presented restrictive dyspnoea. At necropsy, there were marked ascites, hydrothorax, hepatomegaly with enhanced lobular pattern (nutmeg liver), and the lungs were markedly diminished (compressive pulmonary atelectasis). The heart was enlarged due to marked dilation of the cardiac chambers. Moreover, multiple slightly whitish and irregular cord-like structures were connecting the posterior papillary muscle to the interventricular septum (excessive moderator bands /left ventricular false tendons) at the left ventricle. Microscopically, these structures were characterized by a marked proliferation of fibrous connective tissue intermixed with Purkinje cells and well-differentiated cardiomyocytes lined by a single layer of endocardium. This study described a case of excessive moderator bands (left ventricular false tendons) in a young cat associated with congestive heart failure and death.

Falsos tendões são bandas fibrosas ou fibromusculares que atravessam a cavidade do ventrículo esquerdo, sem ligação com a valva mitral, em várias espécies. Nos gatos, a alteração é considerada um defeito congênito que raramente está relacionada com alterações clínicas e morte em gatos adultos. Um gato de 45 dias de idade, sem raça definida e com histórico de inapetência desde o nascimento foi encaminhado para atendimento veterinário. Ao exame físico apresentou letargia e dispneia restritiva. À necropsia, havia acentuada ascite, hidrotórax, hepatomegalia com evidenciação do padrão lobular (fígado noz-moscada) e os pulmões apresentavam-se acentuadamente diminuídos (atelectasia pulmonar compressiva). O coração apresentava acentuada dilatação das câmaras cardíacas. Em ventrículo esquerdo, havia numerosas estruturas brancacentas semelhantes a cordas conectando o músculo papilar ao septo interventricular (bandas moderadoras excessivas/falsos tendões). Microscopicamente, estas estruturas apresentavam acentuada proliferação de tecido conjuntivo fibroso, além de células de Purkinje e cardiomiócitos bem diferenciadas revestidas por uma única camada de endocárdio. O objetivo deste trabalho é descrever um caso de bandas moderadoras excessivas (falsos tendões) em ventrículo esquerdo de um gato jovem com insuficiência cardíaca congestiva e morte.

Congestive heart failure in a young cat with excessive moderator bands (false tendons) in the left ventricle / Insuficiência cardíaca congestiva em um gato jovem com bandas moderadoras excessivas (falsos tendões) em ventrículo esquerdo

Left ventricular false tendons are fibrous or fibromuscular bands that transverse the ventricular cavity and have no attachment to the mitral valve in many species. In cats it is considered a congenital defect that is rarely related to clinical disease and death in adult cats. A 45 days-old mixed breed cat had a history of inappetence since birth. At the physical exam the patient was lethargic and presented restrictive dyspnoea. At necropsy, there were marked ascites, hydrothorax, hepatomegaly with enhanced lobular pattern (nutmeg liver), and the lungs were markedly diminished (compressive pulmonary atelectasis). The heart was enlarged due to marked dilation of the cardiac chambers. Moreover, multiple slightly whitish and irregular cord-like structures were connecting the posterior papillary muscle to the interventricular septum (excessive moderator bands /left ventricular false tendons) at the left ventricle. Microscopically, these structures were characterized by a marked proliferation of fibrous connective tissue intermixed with Purkinje cells and well-differentiated cardiomyocytes lined by a single layer of endocardium. This study described a case of excessive moderator bands (left ventricular false tendons) in a young cat associated with congestive heart failure and death.(AU)

Falsos tendões são bandas fibrosas ou fibromusculares que atravessam a cavidade do ventrículo esquerdo, sem ligação com a valva mitral, em várias espécies. Nos gatos, a alteração é considerada um defeito congênito que raramente está relacionada com alterações clínicas e morte em gatos adultos. Um gato de 45 dias de idade, sem raça definida e com histórico de inapetência desde o nascimento foi encaminhado para atendimento veterinário. Ao exame físico apresentou letargia e dispneia restritiva. À necropsia, havia acentuada ascite, hidrotórax, hepatomegalia com evidenciação do padrão lobular (fígado noz-moscada) e os pulmões apresentavam-se acentuadamente diminuídos (atelectasia pulmonar compressiva). O coração apresentava acentuada dilatação das câmaras cardíacas. Em ventrículo esquerdo, havia numerosas estruturas brancacentas semelhantes a cordas conectando o músculo papilar ao septo interventricular (bandas moderadoras excessivas/falsos tendões). Microscopicamente, estas estruturas apresentavam acentuada proliferação de tecido conjuntivo fibroso, além de células de Purkinje e cardiomiócitos bem diferenciadas revestidas por uma única camada de endocárdio. O objetivo deste trabalho é descrever um caso de bandas moderadoras excessivas (falsos tendões) em ventrículo esquerdo de um gato jovem com insuficiência cardíaca congestiva e morte.(AU)

Congestive heart failure in a young cat with excessive moderator bands (false tendons) in the left ventricle / Insuficiência cardíaca congestiva em um gato jovem com bandas moderadoras excessivas (falsos tendões) em ventrículo esquerdo

ABSTRACT: Left ventricular false tendons are fibrous or fibromuscular bands that transverse the ventricular cavity and have no attachment to the mitral valve in many species. In cats it is considered a congenital defect that is rarely related to clinical disease and death in adult cats. A 45 days-old mixed breed cat had a history of inappetence since birth. At the physical exam the patient was lethargic and presented restrictive dyspnoea. At necropsy, there were marked ascites, hydrothorax, hepatomegaly with enhanced lobular pattern (nutmeg liver), and the lungs were markedly diminished (compressive pulmonary atelectasis). The heart was enlarged due to marked dilation of the cardiac chambers. Moreover, multiple slightly whitish and irregular cord-like structures were connecting the posterior papillary muscle to the interventricular septum (excessive moderator bands /left ventricular false tendons) at the left ventricle. Microscopically, these structures were characterized by a marked proliferation of fibrous connective tissue intermixed with Purkinje cells and well-differentiated cardiomyocytes lined by a single layer of endocardium. This study described a case of excessive moderator bands (left ventricular false tendons) in a young cat associated with congestive heart failure and death.

RESUMO: Falsos tendões são bandas fibrosas ou fibromusculares que atravessam a cavidade do ventrículo esquerdo, sem ligação com a valva mitral, em várias espécies. Nos gatos, a alteração é considerada um defeito congênito que raramente está relacionada com alterações clínicas e morte em gatos adultos. Um gato de 45 dias de idade, sem raça definida e com histórico de inapetência desde o nascimento foi encaminhado para atendimento veterinário. Ao exame físico apresentou letargia e dispneia restritiva. À necropsia, havia acentuada ascite, hidrotórax, hepatomegalia com evidenciação do padrão lobular (fígado noz-moscada) e os pulmões apresentavam-se acentuadamente diminuídos (atelectasia pulmonar compressiva). O coração apresentava acentuada dilatação das câmaras cardíacas. Em ventrículo esquerdo, havia numerosas estruturas brancacentas semelhantes a cordas conectando o músculo papilar ao septo interventricular (bandas moderadoras excessivas/falsos tendões). Microscopicamente, estas estruturas apresentavam acentuada proliferação de tecido conjuntivo fibroso, além de células de Purkinje e cardiomiócitos bem diferenciadas revestidas por uma única camada de endocárdio. O objetivo deste trabalho é descrever um caso de bandas moderadoras excessivas (falsos tendões) em ventrículo esquerdo de um gato jovem com insuficiência cardíaca congestiva e morte.

Bilateral auricular aneurysm with intact pericardial sac in a dog

A nine-year-old, male, Pekingese dog was presented with a history of dyspnea, lethargy, syncope, polyuria, polydipsia, and selective appetite over two years. When the clinical signs first began, a radiographic exam revealed a radiopaque mass in the cranial mediastinum. An adequate treatment was not performed and the dog was presented to the hospital with severe tachycardia, dyspnea, and tachypnea, and died during physical examination. On necropsy, the heart presented bilateral auricular aneurysms. The pericardial sac was intact, and no other defects were found within the heart. Microscopically, the cardiomyocytes were marked degenerated and proliferation of connective tissue. This is the first case report of a bilateral auricular aneurysm with intact pericardial sac in a dog.~ien

Bilateral auricular aneurysm with intact pericardial sac in a dog

A nine-year-old, male, Pekingese dog was presented with a history of dyspnea, lethargy, syncope, polyuria, polydipsia, and selective appetite over two years. When the clinical signs first began, a radiographic exam revealed a radiopaque mass in the cranial mediastinum. An adequate treatment was not performed and the dog was presented to the hospital with severe tachycardia, dyspnea, and tachypnea, and died during physical examination. On necropsy, the heart presented bilateral auricular aneurysms. The pericardial sac was intact, and no other defects were found within the heart. Microscopically, the cardiomyocytes were marked degenerated and proliferation of connective tissue. This is the first case report of a bilateral auricular aneurysm with intact pericardial sac in a dog.(AU)~ien

Ultrasound diagnosis of reticular diaphragmatic hernia in bovines

ABSTRACT: A reticular diaphragmatic hernia is a congenital or acquired alteration resulting from protrusion of the reticulum into the thoracic cavity. In ruminants, lesions to the diaphragmatic muscle, due to penetration of sharp metallic objects, is the most common cause of this disease. Therefore, given the low number of reports on this disease in the bovine species, the current study aims to describe the clinical, laboratory, and anatomopathological findings, with special emphasis on the ultrasound diagnosis of five cattle with reticular diaphragmatic hernia. The laboratory data were analyzed using mean and standard deviation, and clinical, ultrasound, and pathological findings were evaluated using descriptive statistics. Clinically the animals exhibited varying degrees of dehydration, abdominal distension, tympany, and alterations in ruminal motility, in addition to cardiorespiratory alterations such as murmur, dyspnea, and muffling of lung sounds. The laboratory examination showed neutrophilic leukocytosis and hyperfibrinogenemia. The ultrasonographic images demonstrated reticulum inside the thoracic cavity adjacent to the lung and heart, although no reticular motility was observed. The pathological lesions confirmed the findings of the ultrasound exams. Thus, the current study demonstrated that ultrasonography was efficient in diagnosing reticular diaphragmatic hernia in the bovine species.

RESUMO: A hérnia reticular diafragmática é uma alteração congênita ou adquirida resultante da protrusão do retículo para o interior da cavidade torácica. Em ruminantes, lesões no músculo diafragmático devido a penetração de objetos metálico pontiagudos constitui a causa mais comum dessa enfermidade. Portanto, diante dos poucos relatos a cerca dessa enfermidade nos animais da espécie bovina, este estudo tem como objetivo descrever os achados clínicos, laboratoriais, anatomopatológicos e dar ênfase especial no diagnóstico ultrassonográfico de cinco bovinos acometidos com hérnia reticular diafragmática. Os dados laboratoriais foram analisados utilizando-se media e desvio padrão e os achados dos exames clínico, ultrassonográfico e anatomopatológicos foram avaliados através de estatística descritiva. Clinicamente os animais exibiam desidratação em variados graus, distensão abdominal, timpania e alterações na motilidade ruminal. Além de alterações cardiorrespiratórias como sopro, dispneia e abafamento dos sons pulmonares. O exame laboratorial revelou leucocitose por neutrofilia e hiperfibrinogenemia. As imagens ultrassonográficas revelaram retículo no interior da cavidade torácica adjacente ao pulmão e coração, porém nenhuma motilidade reticular foi observada. As lesões anatomopatológicas confirmaram os achados dos exames ultrassonográficos. Dessa maneira, este trabalho demonstrou que a ultrassonografia foi eficiente no diagnóstico da hérnia reticular diafragmática nos animais da espécie bovina.

Ultrasonographic detection of interstitial nephritis in a canine fetus

Background: A detailed ultrasound examination of the fetal urinary tract as part of prenatal care is important to detect possibleabnormalities. Early diagnosis can prevent more serious damage such as loss of kidney function. Interstitial nephritis cancompromise renal functionality. Also, acute interstitial nephritis is a frequent cause of acute kidney injury and can becomechronic if not treated. Besides, a renal biopsy can help in the diagnosis and at the staging of the disease. Therefore, thisreport aims to describe the ultrasonographic findings of the renal tissues in a canine fetus affected by interstitial nephritis.Case: Gestational ultrasound evaluations were performed in a female Pug, at the 25th, 45th, and 58th gestational days.Ultrasound examination was performed with a 9.0 MHz linear transducer and a high-resolution digital transducer with afrequency standardized at 17.0 MHz. During the first evaluation, embryonic vesicles were detected and were compatible withthe gestational period. At 45 days of gestation, some abnormalities were observed in the kidneys of one of the fetuses, suchas increased cortical echogenicity, cortical thickening, loss of corticomedullary ratio (1:1), renal pelvis and ureter dilatationby echogenic content. Biparietal and abdominal diameters were also lower than that from the other fetuses, which did notshow abnormalities, being compatible with the estimated gestational age. However, the heart rate was similar among allfetuses. On the 58th day, we observed in the underdeveloped fetus that both kidneys still presented the abnormalities seenpreviously, in addition to the presence of a cystic structure in the right kidney, in the cranial...

Ultrasonographic detection of interstitial nephritis in a canine fetus

Background: A detailed ultrasound examination of the fetal urinary tract as part of prenatal care is important to detect possibleabnormalities. Early diagnosis can prevent more serious damage such as loss of kidney function. Interstitial nephritis cancompromise renal functionality. Also, acute interstitial nephritis is a frequent cause of acute kidney injury and can becomechronic if not treated. Besides, a renal biopsy can help in the diagnosis and at the staging of the disease. Therefore, thisreport aims to describe the ultrasonographic findings of the renal tissues in a canine fetus affected by interstitial nephritis.Case: Gestational ultrasound evaluations were performed in a female Pug, at the 25th, 45th, and 58th gestational days.Ultrasound examination was performed with a 9.0 MHz linear transducer and a high-resolution digital transducer with afrequency standardized at 17.0 MHz. During the first evaluation, embryonic vesicles were detected and were compatible withthe gestational period. At 45 days of gestation, some abnormalities were observed in the kidneys of one of the fetuses, suchas increased cortical echogenicity, cortical thickening, loss of corticomedullary ratio (1:1), renal pelvis and ureter dilatationby echogenic content. Biparietal and abdominal diameters were also lower than that from the other fetuses, which did notshow abnormalities, being compatible with the estimated gestational age. However, the heart rate was similar among allfetuses. On the 58th day, we observed in the underdeveloped fetus that both kidneys still presented the abnormalities seenpreviously, in addition to the presence of a cystic structure in the right kidney, in the cranial...(AU)

Mucopolissacaridose tipo I em cão / Mucopolysaccharidosis type I in a dog

Background: Mucopolysaccharidoses (MPS) are a group of rare illnesses caused by deficient activity of enzymes requiredfor degradation of glycosaminoglycans (GAGs). Each type of MPS is caused by mutations in one of the genes that encodethe 11 acid hydrolases involved in this degradation process, which are present in the lysosomes. Progressive accumulationof GAGs in the lysosomes result in cellular dysfunction and multisystemic clinical signs, with consequent decrease in quality of life and lifespan of the affected patients. The objective of the present work is to report a case of MPS type I in a dog.Case: A mixed-breed male dog of approximately 2-month-old weighing 2.5 kg was referred to Hospital Veterinário deUberaba with a distended abdomen. At the clinical examination, the patient exhibited a regular nutritional status, pale mucous membranes, 7% dehydration, an arterial pulse rate of 120 beats per minute, a respiratory rate of 40 breaths per minute,and a heart rate of 120 beats per minute. There were increased abdominal volume and tension, and hepatosplenomegaly.The abdominal percussion exam produced a dull tone. Additional findings included muscular atrophy, increased volume inthe metaphyseal areas of the thoracic and pelvic limbs, valgus limb deformity in the thoracic limbs, and instability of thehip joint. Radiographic examination revealed a series of bone alterations such as reduced vertebral bodies, a generalizeddecrease in radiopacity, thin cortical areas in long bones, narrowing of the pelvic canal, and marked deformation and irregularities in acetabular and epiphyseal (both proximal and distal) areas of the femurs and tibias. Ankylosis of the tibiotarsal andtarsometatarsal joints was also observed. There was also loss of trabecular structure and irregularities on the surfaces of allepiphyses of the bones, epiphyseal lines markedly open, and bones that were...

Mucopolissacaridose tipo I em cão / Mucopolysaccharidosis type I in a dog

Background: Mucopolysaccharidoses (MPS) are a group of rare illnesses caused by deficient activity of enzymes requiredfor degradation of glycosaminoglycans (GAGs). Each type of MPS is caused by mutations in one of the genes that encodethe 11 acid hydrolases involved in this degradation process, which are present in the lysosomes. Progressive accumulationof GAGs in the lysosomes result in cellular dysfunction and multisystemic clinical signs, with consequent decrease in quality of life and lifespan of the affected patients. The objective of the present work is to report a case of MPS type I in a dog.Case: A mixed-breed male dog of approximately 2-month-old weighing 2.5 kg was referred to Hospital Veterinário deUberaba with a distended abdomen. At the clinical examination, the patient exhibited a regular nutritional status, pale mucous membranes, 7% dehydration, an arterial pulse rate of 120 beats per minute, a respiratory rate of 40 breaths per minute,and a heart rate of 120 beats per minute. There were increased abdominal volume and tension, and hepatosplenomegaly.The abdominal percussion exam produced a dull tone. Additional findings included muscular atrophy, increased volume inthe metaphyseal areas of the thoracic and pelvic limbs, valgus limb deformity in the thoracic limbs, and instability of thehip joint. Radiographic examination revealed a series of bone alterations such as reduced vertebral bodies, a generalizeddecrease in radiopacity, thin cortical areas in long bones, narrowing of the pelvic canal, and marked deformation and irregularities in acetabular and epiphyseal (both proximal and distal) areas of the femurs and tibias. Ankylosis of the tibiotarsal andtarsometatarsal joints was also observed. There was also loss of trabecular structure and irregularities on the surfaces of allepiphyses of the bones, epiphyseal lines markedly open, and bones that were...(AU)

Preventive blood evaluation in obese dogs (Canis lupus familiares) / Análise sanguínea preventiva em cães obesos (Canis lupus familiares)

The objective of this study was to evaluate serum hematological and biochemical changes in obese young dogs clinically healthy. Twenty-six animals were selected, which were separated into two groups: thirteen with normal weight and thirteen with obesity. Exclusion criteria were used for the selection of groups, age between one and eight years, physical evaluation, blood count, and a questionnaire to investigate pre-existing pathologies (diabetes mellitus, hypothyroidism, hyperadrenocorticism, hepatic and/or renal insufficiency, congenital or acquired heart disease, locomotor problems, inflammatory and/or infectious diseases or physiological conditions such as pregnancy or lactation). 5-mL blood samples were collected from each patient by puncture of the cephalic vein in the morning after a feeding restriction of 10 hours. Hematocrit, total erythrocyte count, hemoglobin concentration, total leukocyte count, leukocyte differential count and serum albumin, total protein, globulins, ALT, ALP, HDL cholesterol, total cholesterol, triglycerides, creatinine, urea, glucose, and insulin were assessed. No statistically significant differences were found between the groups in the hematological assessments. Among the biochemical tests, there were significant differences in total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, and glucose (p ≤ 0.05).

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar as alterações hematológicas e bioquímicas séricas em cães jovens, obesos, e cli-nicamente saudáveis. Foram selecionados 26 animais e separados em dois grupos: 13 com peso normal e 13 com obesidade. Foram utilizados critérios de exclusão para seleção de grupos como: idade entre um e oito anos, avaliação física, hemograma completo e um questionário com o objetivo de investigar patologias pré-existentes (diabetes mellitus, hipotireoidismo, hipe-radrenocorticismo, insuficiência hepática e, ou renal, doença cardíaca congênita ou adquirida, problemas locomotores, doen-ças inflamatórias e, ou infecciosas ou condições fisiológicas como gravidez ou lactação). Amostras de 5 mL de sangue foram coletadas de cada paciente por punção da veia cefálica na manhã seguinte a uma restrição alimentar de 10 horas. Foram ava-liados: hematócrito, contagem total de eritrócitos, concentração de hemoglobina, contagem total de leucócitos e albumina sérica, ALT, colesterol HDL, colesterol total, creatinina, ALP, frutosamina, globulinas, glicose, insulina, proteína total, sódio, triglicerídeos e uréia. Não foram encontradas diferenças estatisticas significantes entre os grupos nas avaliações hematológicas. Entre os testes bioquímicos, houve diferenças significativas no colesterol total, HDL-colesterol e glicose (p ≤ 0,05).

Preventive blood evaluation in obese dogs (Canis lupus familiares) / Análise sanguínea preventiva em cães obesos (Canis lupus familiares)

The objective of this study was to evaluate serum hematological and biochemical changes in obese young dogs clinically healthy. Twenty-six animals were selected, which were separated into two groups: thirteen with normal weight and thirteen with obesity. Exclusion criteria were used for the selection of groups, age between one and eight years, physical evaluation, blood count, and a questionnaire to investigate pre-existing pathologies (diabetes mellitus, hypothyroidism, hyperadrenocorticism, hepatic and/or renal insufficiency, congenital or acquired heart disease, locomotor problems, inflammatory and/or infectious diseases or physiological conditions such as pregnancy or lactation). 5-mL blood samples were collected from each patient by puncture of the cephalic vein in the morning after a feeding restriction of 10 hours. Hematocrit, total erythrocyte count, hemoglobin concentration, total leukocyte count, leukocyte differential count and serum albumin, total protein, globulins, ALT, ALP, HDL cholesterol, total cholesterol, triglycerides, creatinine, urea, glucose, and insulin were assessed. No statistically significant differences were found between the groups in the hematological assessments. Among the biochemical tests, there were significant differences in total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, and glucose (p ≤ 0.05).(AU)

O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar as alterações hematológicas e bioquímicas séricas em cães jovens, obesos, e cli-nicamente saudáveis. Foram selecionados 26 animais e separados em dois grupos: 13 com peso normal e 13 com obesidade. Foram utilizados critérios de exclusão para seleção de grupos como: idade entre um e oito anos, avaliação física, hemograma completo e um questionário com o objetivo de investigar patologias pré-existentes (diabetes mellitus, hipotireoidismo, hipe-radrenocorticismo, insuficiência hepática e, ou renal, doença cardíaca congênita ou adquirida, problemas locomotores, doen-ças inflamatórias e, ou infecciosas ou condições fisiológicas como gravidez ou lactação). Amostras de 5 mL de sangue foram coletadas de cada paciente por punção da veia cefálica na manhã seguinte a uma restrição alimentar de 10 horas. Foram ava-liados: hematócrito, contagem total de eritrócitos, concentração de hemoglobina, contagem total de leucócitos e albumina sérica, ALT, colesterol HDL, colesterol total, creatinina, ALP, frutosamina, globulinas, glicose, insulina, proteína total, sódio, triglicerídeos e uréia. Não foram encontradas diferenças estatisticas significantes entre os grupos nas avaliações hematológicas. Entre os testes bioquímicos, houve diferenças significativas no colesterol total, HDL-colesterol e glicose (p ≤ 0,05).(AU)