Effects of multimodal environmental modification in crystal-related feline lower urinary tract diseases / Efeitos da modificação ambiental multimodal em felinos com cristais doenças do trato urinário inferior relacionadas a cristais

This study aims to analyze the effects of multimodal environmental modification (MEMO) of cats with recurrence of lower urinary tract signs (LUTS). Treatment of FLUTD included pharmacological treatment, dietary management, and multimodal environmental modification approaches. Twenty client-owned indoor-housed cats with recurrence of lower urinary tract signs had been covered in this observation. Diagnosis of lower urinary tract was made primarily based on the cat's clinical signs, results of laboratory parameters, urinalysis and ultrasonographic examination. Cats were divided into two groups as cefovecin (8 mg/kg sc, single time use) + meloxicam (0.1mg/kg q24h, 3 days) + dry food including l-tryptophan and milk protein hydrolysate to dissolve struvite stones (Group 1) and cefovecin + meloxicam + dry food including l-tryptophan and milk protein hydrolysate to dissolve struvite stones + multimodal environmental modification (Group 2). Clinical and urinary parameters are scored as 0, 1, 2, 3 or 4 points on initial, third, seventh days. Scores of clinical parameters were significantly different between (p<0.05) group 2 and group 1 on the third and seventh days and scores of urinary parameters are significantly different between (p<0.05) group 2 than group 1 on the seventh day. Clients who were contacted after 1 year reported that they did not see any clinical signs of urinary tract diseases.

Este estudo tem como objetivo avaliar os efeitos da modificação ambiental multimodal (MEMO) em gatos com recorrência de sinais do trato urinário inferior (LUTS). O tratamento da FLUTD incluiu tratamento farmacológico, controle dietético e abordagens de modificação ambiental multimodal. Vinte gatos de propriedade de clientes, alojados em ambientes fechados, com recorrência de sinais do trato urinário inferior foram incluídos nessa observação. O diagnóstico do trato urinário inferior foi feito principalmente com base nos sinais clínicos do gato, nos resultados dos parâmetros laboratoriais, na urinálise e no exame ultrassonográfico. Os gatos foram divididos em dois grupos: cefovecina (8 mg/kg sc, uso único) + meloxicam (0,1mg/kg q24h, 3 dias) + ração seca incluindo l-triptofano e hidrolisado de proteína do leite para dissolver cálculos de estruvita (Grupo 1) e cefovecina + meloxicam + ração seca incluindo l-triptofano e hidrolisado de proteína do leite para dissolver cálculos de estruvita + modificação ambiental multimodal (Grupo 2). Os parâmetros clínicos e urinários foram pontuados como 0, 1, 2, 3 ou 4 pontos no primeiro, terceiro e sétimo dias. As pontuações dos parâmetros clínicos foram significativamente diferentes entre (p<0,05) o grupo 2 e o grupo 1 no terceiro e sétimo dias, e as pontuações dos parâmetros urinários foram significativamente diferentes entre (p<0,05) o grupo 2 e o grupo 1 no sétimo dia. Os clientes que foram contatados após um ano relataram que não observaram nenhum sinal clínico de doenças do trato urinário.

Spontaneous osteoarthritis in dogs - clinical effects of single and multiple intra-articular injections of hyaluronic acid

Background: The treatments of osteoarthritis (OA) are commonly conservative and multimodal to relieve pain and improve movement. Intra-articular injection of hyaluronic acid (IAHA) has been studied as a treatment option for OA in dogs. IAHA helps restore the viscoelasticity of the synovial fluid and relieves the clinical symptoms of OA. However, the efficacy of IAHA in dogs is still a controversial subject. This study aims to confirm the IAHA effect in dogs with spontaneous OA and to compare the effectiveness depending on the number of injections. Materials, Methods & Results: Thirty dogs with spontaneous OA were assigned to a single injection group (n=17) and a 3-weekly injections group (n=13). Dogs weighing less than 10 kg were injected 1 mL of HA to the OA joint, and more than 10 kg dogs were injected 2 mL of HA. In the case of the 3-weekly injections group, the same amount was administered 3 times at 1-week intervals. After the injection, physical and orthopedic examinations were performed to check for complications. Radiographic OA score was evaluated before and 3 months after the injection to confirm and to evaluate the progression of OA. Clinical symptom evaluations were performed on pre-injection, 1-, 2-, and 3-months post-injection. They consisted of the clinical lameness score by veterinarians and Canine Brief Pain Inventory (CBPI) by owners. Results were compared with unpaired t-test, repeated-measures ANOVA with Tukey's or Sidak's multiple comparison test, or Wilcoxon test, with P < 0.05. Patients had a median age of 9 years (range 3 to 16 years) and a bodyweight of 4.8 kg (range 2 to 48 kg). No systemic side effects or major complications were detected during the trial period. IAHA produced temporary pain and discomfort in 6 cases. There was no change in the radiographic OA score before and 3 months after injections in both groups, and the difference between groups was not confirmed. In both groups, the clinical lameness score significantly decreased at 1, 2, 3 months after injection compared with pre-injection. The score was lower at 3 months after the injection than at 1 month. The clinical lameness score had no significant difference between the groups. Similarly, CBPI was all decreased in the single injection group and 3-weekly injections group compared to pre-injection, and the score at 3 months post-injection was lower than at 1 month. No significant differences between the groups were found in CBPI. Discussion: Most studies on the efficacy of IAHA in canine OA have been conducted using an experimental model, so studies on spontaneous canine OA are insufficient. This study confirmed that IAHA improves clinical symptoms such as pain relief and movement improvement in spontaneous OA dogs using CBPI and clinical lameness score. In order to confirm the optimal IAHA protocol, a single IAHA and 3-weekly IAHA were compared. The result shows that clinical symptoms improved in both single and 3-weekly injections groups, but no significant difference was confirmed during the 3-month study period. These findings may suggest that a single IAHA may have a similar effect to multiple IAHA, and repeated injections are unnecessary. In humans and canine OA models, it is reported that the effect of IAHA was maintained for 6 months. This study showed that the effect of IAHA was maintained for 3 months study period and that clinical symptoms improved at 3 months than at 1 month. In conclusion, these findings suggested that IAHA improves clinical symptoms in dogs with spontaneous OA, and a single IAHA showed a similar effect to 3 weekly IAHA.

Cholangiocarcinoma in a bitch - multimodal diagnosis

Background: Hepatic tumors of primary origin account for 0.6% to 2.9% of cases in canine species, less common than hepatic metastases. The hepatic tumors are divided into hepatocellular tumors, neuroendocrine tumors, bile duct tumors or cholangiocarcinomas, and mesenchymal tumors. Cholangiocarcinomas, are classified according to their origin, being intrahepatic, extrahepatic, or gallbladder type. Cholangiocarcinomas are considered rare in dogs and cats with a ratio of 29% to 71% compared to hepatocellular carcinomas, accounting for 9% of the hepatic tumors. The present study aims to describe a case of cholangiocarcinoma in a bitch, focusing on the diagnostic approach. Case: A 10-year-old castrated bitch Poodle was attended presenting hypoglycemia and seizure crisis. The patient had previous exams of hemogram and serum biochemical profile, showing a discrete increase of the hepatic enzymes alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST), besides hypoglycemia. Previous ultrasound exam revealed the presence of a hepatic mass located between the right and square lobes, immeasurable, and significant splenomegaly. Abdominal palpation revealed the presence of immeasurable abdominal formation of undetermined origin. Abdominal computerized tomography (CT), glycemic curve, and insulin dosage were requested. Tomography exam showed an increase in hepatic volume with the presence of a heterogeneous formation in the right lateral lobe topography; increase in spleen dimensions and the presence of multiple nodules; and the presence of a nodule in the right lung, at the caudal thoracic region. The glycemic curve showed acute variations, and insulin dosage was between normal values. The animal was referred for surgery, as in abdominocentesis, it was observed the presence of hemorrhagic fluid, confirming active bleeding by ultrasonography. The owners chose for euthanasia. In the post-mortem evaluation the main lesion was confirmed of hepatic origin, with a massive, irregular, cavitary presentation, involving multiple hepatic lobes, and a single nodule was observed in the right caudal lobe of the right lung. Histopathological evaluation was considered inconclusive. Immunohistochemistry was performed and the association of the immunohistochemical profile with the morphological characteristics indicated diagnosis of cholangiocarcinoma. Discussion: The related symptomatology, in hepatic neoplasms, is generally considered non-specific, with reports of lethargy, vomiting, dyspnea, anorexia and weight loss, however, the dog in this study presented a unique manifestation of hypoglycemia and one episode of convulsive crisis resulting from it. The clinical manifestation observed was extremely unspecific making initial diagnosis difficult. The ultrasonographic examination was effective in evidencing the abdominal mass. In addition, abdominal CT was also performed, which confirmed the hepatic origin, detailing the macroscopic aspect. Biochemical analyses of ALT and AST showed a discrete increase. Biochemical changes may occur in dogs with hepatic neoplasms, although they are not specific. Functional pancreatic beta-cell tumors producing insulin are the most common cause of paraneoplastic hypoglycemia, although in the case the insulin dosage was within normal limits. In cases of nonislet cell tumor the mechanism is frequently associated with the production of insulin-like growth factor (IGF). In most cases the definitive diagnosis of cholangiocarcinoma can be obtained by histopathological examination, although in the present report the result obtained was inconclusive, requiring an immunohistochemical examination. Due to the aggressive and metastatic character of this neoplastic type, early detection becomes extremely important in order to maximize therapeutic chances, however, diagnosis may be difficult.

Multimodal anesthesia associated with regional block in a dog who underwent corrective surgery for persistent right aortic arch: case report / Anestesia multimodal associada a bloqueio loco-regional em cão submetido a cirurgia corretiva para persistência de arco aórtico direito: relato de caso

The persistence of the fourth right aortic arch (PRAA) is a congenital malformation that affects the heart base's main vessels. Surgical treatment is recommended and should be advocated as a matter of urgency. In this context, efficient anesthesia planning is necessary, with satisfactory analgesia, associating multimodal techniques with regional blocks. The present work aims to report the anesthetic procedure during corrective surgery for PRAA in a dog. Neuroleptanalgesia was intramuscularly performed, using acepromazine (0.015 mg.kg-1) and methadone (0.3 mg.kg-1) in pre-anesthetic medication. Ketamine (1 mg.kg-1) and propofol (3 mg.kg-1) were administered at induction, both intravenously, followed by maintenance using total intravenous anesthesia with propofol (initial rate of 0.4 mg.kg-1 .minute) and remifentanil, (0.2 mcg.kg.-1.minute). In addition, ultrasound-guided regional intercostal block was performed, with 5% bupivacaine without vasoconstrictor (0.05ml.kg-1). Ketamine infusion was postoperatively maintained for one hour. The instituted protocol proved to be satisfactory in controlling trans and postoperative pain, maintaining all parameters stable during and after the procedure, without any intercurrence. Thus, the protocol provided quality recovery to the patient.(AU)

A persistência do quarto arco aórtico direito é uma má formação congênita, afetando os principais vasos da base cardíaca. O tratamento cirúrgico é recomendado e preconiza-se um planejamento anestésico eficiente, associando-se técnicas multimodais a bloqueios regionais. O presente trabalho objetiva relatar a anestesia durante cirurgia corretiva de PDA em cão. Na medicação pré-anestésica, instituiu-se neuroleptonalgesia, utilizando-se acepromazina (0,015 mg.kg-1) e metadona (0,3 mg.kg-1), por via intramuscular. Na indução, foi administrada cetamina (1mg.kg -1) e propofol (3 mg.kg-1). Para manutenção, utilizou--se propofol (taxa inicial de 0,4 mg.kg-1.minuto) e remifentanil, (0,2 mcg.kg-1.minuto). Além disso, foi realizado bloqueio regional intercostal guiado por ultrassom com bupivacaína sem vasoconstritor a 5% (0,05ml.kg-1). O paciente permaneceu em infusão analgésica de cetamina por uma hora, no pós operatório. O protocolo estabelecido demonstrou ser satisfatório no controle de dor trans e pós-operatória, mantendo todos os parâmetros estáveis, sem nenhuma intercorrência, proporcionando qualidade de recuperação ao paciente.(AU)

Bloqueio do plano transverso do abdômen em coelha submetida à mastectomia e ovariohisterectomia / Blockade of the transverse plane of the abdomen in a rabbit submitted to mastectomy and ovariohysterectomy

Os bloqueios locorregionais vêm sendo cada vez mais estudados na medicina veterinária, principalmente em pets não-convencionais e animais silvestres. O bloqueio do plano transverso do abdômen (TAP block) é uma técnica de anestesia locorregional capaz de promover anestesia e analgesia em regiões da pele, musculatura e peritônio parietal, as quais fazem parte da estratégia de analgesia multimodal. O objetivo deste trabalho é relatar o bloqueio do plano transverso em um coelho doméstico de quatro anos de idade submetido à mastectomia regional e ovariohisterectomia. Foram realizados dois pontos bilateralmente de bloqueio do espaço TAP guiado por ultrassom com 2mg/kg de bupivacaína a 0,25%, padronizando um volume total injetado de 2,4mL. Foram utilizados dexmedetomidina (5É¥g/kg) e midazolam (0,5mg/kg) por via intramuscular como medicação pré-anestésica, indução com isoflurano na máscara de oxigênio 100% e manutenção por anestesia inalatória com isoflurano. Os parâmetros fisiológicos mantiveram-se estáveis, sem necessidade de resgate analgésico, com extubação rápida e despertar tranquilo. Desta forma, conclui-se que o TAP block foi eficaz na analgesia para mastectomia regional e ovariohisterectomia como protocolo multimodal, aumentando o índice de segurança, além de ser de fácil execução mesmo com transdutores de baixa frequência.

The locoregional blocks have been increasingly studied in veterinary medicine, especially in non-conventional pets and wild animals. The transverse abdominis plane block (TAP block) is a locoregional anesthesia technique capable of promoting anesthesia and analgesia in the skin, muscle, and parietal peritoneum regions, which are is part of the multimodal analgesia strategy. This study aims to report the transverse plane block in a four-year-old domestic rabbit submitted to regional mastectomy and ovariohysterectomy. Two ultrasound-guided TAP space blocks were performed bilaterally with 2mg/kg of bupivacaine 0.25%, standardizing a total injected volume of 2.4mL. Dexmedetomidine (5É¥g/kg) and midazolam (0.5mg/kg) were used intramuscularly as pre-anesthetic medication, induction with isoflurane in a 100% oxygen mask, and maintenance by inhalation anesthesia with isoflurane. Physiological parameters remained stable, with no need for analgesic rescue, rapid extubation, and peaceful awakening. Thus, it is concluded that the TAP block was effective in analgesia for regional mastectomy and ovariohysterectomy as a multimodal protocol, increasing the safety index. Moreover, it is easy to perform even with low-frequency transducers.

Associação do bloqueio do plano transverso e serrátil em gata submetida à mastectomia / Association of transversus and serratus plane block in cat submitted to mastectomy

Os bloqueios locorregionais são considerados padrão-ouro para a analgesia perioperatória. Sendo assim, este trabalho apresenta o efeito da associação do bloqueio do plano transverso do abdome com o bloqueio do plano serrátil em um felino de 11 anos, fêmea, que foi submetido à mastectomia unilateral. Foi utilizada a metadona 0,3 mg/kg via intramuscular (IM) na medicação pré-anestésica e propofol dose-efeito via intravenosa (IV) para indução, enquanto a manutenção foi feita com isoflurano. O TAP Block e o SP-Block foram realizados unilateralmente utilizando a associação de bupivacaína 0,3mL/kg, em cada ponto, diluída a 0,25% com solução fisiológica. A frequência cardíaca (FC), a frequência respiratória (f), a pressão arterial não invasiva (Método Doppler), a temperatura esofágica (oC), a saturação de oxigênio (SpO2), a capnografia (EtCO2) e o eletrocardiograma foram monitorados continuamente e registrados a cada dez minutos. A paciente foi monitorada por cinco horas, após a extubação, quanto à dor, sendo utilizada, para isso, a Escala Multidimensional de Dor Aguda (UNESP-Botucatu). A recuperação anestésica da paciente foi rápida e sem complicações. Durante a avaliação de dor, o animal apresentou escore zero, não manifestando qualquer desconforto pós-operatório. A associação das técnicas foi eficaz no bloqueio anestésico das paredes torácica e abdominal, sugerindo a inclusão destas nos protocolos de analgesia multimodal para esse tipo de cirurgia.

Locoregional blocks are considered the gold standard for perioperative analgesia. Thus, this paper presents the effect of the association of transverse abdominal plane block with serratus plane block in an 11-year-old female feline submitted to unilateral mastectomy. Methadone 0.3 mg/kg via intramuscular (IM) was used as pre anesthetic medication and dose-effect propofol via intravenous (IV) was used for induction, while the maintenance was done with isofluorane. TAP Block and SP-Block were performed unilaterally using an association of Bupivacaine 0.3 ml/kg at each point, diluted to 0.25% with saline solution. Heart rate (HR), respiratory rate (f), non-invasive blood pressure (Doppler method), esophageal temperature (oC), oxygen saturation (SpO2), capnography (EtCO2), and electrocardiogram were monitored continuously and recorded every 10 minutes. The patient was monitored for pain during five hours after extubation using the Multidimensional Scale of UNESP-Botucatu. The anesthetic recovery of the patient was fast and without complications. During pain assessment, the animal presented a score of zero and did not present any postoperative discomfort. The association of techniques was effective in the anesthetic blockade of the thoracic and abdominal walls, suggesting their inclusion in multimodal analgesia protocols for this type of surgery.

Carcinoma uretral primário em uma cadela - tratamento multimodal / Primary urethral carcinoma in a bitch - multimodal treatment

Background: Urethral tumors are uncommon in canines, represented predominantly by transitional cell carcinoma, marked by aggressive behavior associated with short life expectancy. Definitive diagnosis is achieved by histopathological analysis. Surgery associated with chemotherapy is the main therapeutic alternative. The aim of this paper is to report a case of primary transitional cell carcinoma of the urethra in a bitch, submitted to surgical treatment associated with conventional adjuvant chemotherapy and metronomic chemotherapy, achieving survival of 21 months, to date. Case: A 12-year-old bitch mixed breed was admitted at the Veterinary Hospital of Federal Rural University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRRJ), manifesting hematuria and urinary incontinence for one month. Physical examination indicated that vital parameters were within normal limits. Laboratory tests of blood count and serum biochemistry, urinalysis, culture, urinary antibiogram, and abdominal ultrasound were performed. The ultrasound image suggested a neoplastic urethral process. Because of the suspicion of neoplasm, a thoracic X-ray was performed, showing no evidence of metastasis. Computed tomography (CT) of the abdominal region was performed, revealing an expansive lesion in the urethra with loss of definition of the walls and urethral lumen extending to the level of the pelvic floor, measuring about 2.9 x 1.4 x 1.2 cm. After preanesthetic exams, the animal underwent resection and surgical anastomosis of the affected urethral region. The sectioned tissue was sent for histopathological analysis, with diagnosis of transitional cell carcinoma. Adjuvant chemotherapy was performed using carboplatin at a dose of 250 mg/m², intravenously, every 21 days for 6 sessions. After completing the protocol, abdominal ultrasonography was performed again, which showed a cicatricial process in the urethral region of the surgical excision, with no sign of tumor recurrence. A metronomic chemotherapy protocol was then started with cyclophosphamide at a dose of 15 mg/m², daily for 6 months, with periodic oncological follow-up. At the end of the period, the animal remained under periodic follow-up with ultrasound exams performed at 2-month intervals, and has been free from recurrence for 21 months until now. Discussion: Urethral neoplasms account for 0.5 - 2% of all canine tumors, and are represented mostly by transitional cell carcinomas. Clinical signs of urinary obstruction and hematuria are the most common, as reported in the patient in question. The definitive diagnosis is by histopathological examination. However, imaging tests such as computed tomography are important in the initial investigation and surgical planning. The indicated treatment is surgical resection of the mass with subsequent adjuvant chemotherapy or radiotherapy. The chemotherapy protocol associating cisplatin and piroxicam can achieve remission rates of 70%, but this association has a high nephrotoxic effect. In the present case, cisplatin was replaced by carboplatin in order to reduce the nephrotoxic effects of chemotherapy. The metronomic protocol using cyclophosphamide was used as maintenance therapy, at the end of the conventional chemotherapy protocol. Survival achieved was longer than that described in the literature in cases of transitional cell carcinomas in the urethral region. Therefore, multimodal therapy using surgery associated with conventional and metronomic chemotherapy, is an option in canines with urethral carcinoma.

Disfunção cognitiva canina: tratamentos disponíveis / Canine cognitive dysfunction: Available treatments

A disfunção cognitiva canina (DCC) é uma enfermidade que causa alterações fisiológicas e comportamentais em cães idosos, e que apresenta uma fisiopatogenia semelhante à doença de Alzheimer (DA), que acomete seres humanos. Os sinais clínicos são representados pela sigla DISHA (desorientação, mudanças na interação com pessoas/animais, alterações no ciclo sono-vigília, falha no aprendizado/memória e nível de atividades alteradas). A principal forma de diagnóstico da doença é baseada em um questionário respondido pelo tutor, relacionado ao comportamento do animal. O tratamento é multimodal, consistindo basicamente em uso de fármacos, mudanças na alimentação, e enriquecimento ambiental e mental. Os fármacos utilizados são de diversas classes farmacológicas e agem diretamente em substâncias relacionadas com a fisiopatogenia da DCC, além de atenuarem alguns sinais clínicos da enfermidade. Essa ação dos fármacos é potencializada com a adição de alimentos específicos, enriquecimento do ambiente que o animal vive e estimulação mental, principalmente por meio de passeios. A união de todas essas modalidades de tratamento auxilia na melhoria do bem-estar do animal acometido. Como a disfunção não tem cura, o tratamento é longo e, muitas vezes, não é possível visualizar melhora evidente no animal. Dessa forma, alguns tutores acabam optando pela eutanásia. Apesar de ser frequente em cães idosos e haver uma ampla base literária acerca da DCC, não há um protocolo terapêutico específico. Sendo assim, há diversos tratamentos disponibilizados de forma isolada na literatura, fazendo com que os clínicos veterinários encontrem dificuldades para achar um compilado de informações em uma única fonte.

Canine cognitive dysfunction (CCD) is a disease that causes physiological and behavioral changes in elderly dogs and presents a physiopathogeny similar to Alzheimer's disease (AD), which affects humans. Clinical signs are represented by the acronym DISHA (disorientation, changes in interaction with people/animals, changes in the sleep-wake cycle, learning/memory failure, and altered activity level). The main form of diagnosis of illness is based on a questionnaire answered by the tutor, related to the animal behavior. The treatment is multimodal, basically consisting of drug use, changes in the diet, and environmental and mental enrichment. The drugs used are of various pharmacological classes and act directly on substances related to the physiopathogeny of CCD, besides attenuating some clinical signs of the disease. This drug action is enhanced with the addition of specific foods, enrichment of the environment where the animal lives and mental stimulation, mainly through tours. The union of all these treatment modalities helps to improve the welfare of the affected animal. As the disease has no cure, the treatment is long and it is often not possible to visualize evident improvement in the animal. In this way, some tutors opt for euthanasia. Despite being frequent in elderly dogs and there is a broad literature on CCD, there is no specific therapeutic protocol. There are several treatments available in isolation in the literature, causing veterinary clinicians find it difficult to locate a compilation of information from a single source.

Infusão contínua de fentanil e cetamina para controle de dor no transcirurgico: relato de caso / Continuous infusion of fentanyl and ketamine for trans-surgical pain control: case report

O paciente da espécie canina, sem raça definida, com 5 anos, deu entrada a clínica veterinária particular apresentando quadro de dor aguda e intensa em cavidade abdominal associada a prostração. Foram realizados exames de sangue, ultrassonografia e radiografia de abdômen, cuja suspeita foi torção parcial do estômago, com esplenomegalia, além de gastrite e enterite. O paciente foi submetido imediatamente ao procedimento cirúrgico para alívio, reposicionamento do órgão e gastropexia. O animal foi medicado previamente com metadona, tramadol e dipirona duas horas antes do ato cirúrgico, portanto não foram utilizadas medicações pré-anestésicas e optou-se pelo propofol e cetamina para a indução anestésica, além da infusão contínua com cetamina e fentanil para se obter a analgesia multimodal. Os parâmetros de dor foram avaliados por meio das frequências cardíaca e respiratória, traçado eletrocardiográfico, pressão arterial sistólica e média, aferição da temperatura retal e coloração de mucosas, a cada 5 minutos. Os mesmos indicaram boa estabilidade hemodinâmica, segurança e analgesia, sem necessidade de alterar as doses estabelecidas durante o procedimento. Pode ser observada também redução do requerimento de isoflurano para manutenção do plano cirúrgico. O paciente acordou sem sinais de dor no pós-operatório imediato evitando estresse sistêmico, o que conferiu o bom resultado do protocolo analgésico instituído.

The patient (Caramel) canine, mixed breed, approximately 5 years old, weighing 26kg was seen at the Ame Vet veterinary clinic, with severe abdominal pain, apathy, anorexia, prostration. Blood tests, abdominal ultrasound and abdominal x-ray were performed according to the tests a suspicion of partial torsion of the stomach and splenomegaly with right displacement, in addition to gastritis and enteritis. It was decided by the clinic and surgeon to perform laparotomy and prophylactic gastropexy. The animal was previously medicated by the clinic that treated the animal for analgesia with methadone, tramadol and dipyrone two hours before the beginning of the surgical procedure, therefore, pre-anesthetic medications, anesthetic induction with propofol, and ketamine were not used, aiming to perform analgesia. Multimodal with continuous infusion of ketamine and fentanyl, that is, more than one different mechanism of action, acting synergistically and reducing dose-dependent adverse effects and monitoring hemostasis and patient parameters, presenting its efficacy and safety in intraoperative pain control. The parameters addressed were heart rate (HR), respiratory rate (RR), electrocardiographic tracing, Spo2, systolic blood pressure (SBP), mean arterial pressure (MAP), temperature and mucosal color, evaluated every 5 minutes. The parameters evaluated indicated good hemodynamic stability, safety and analgesia, with no need to change the doses established during the procedure. A reduction in the requirement of isoflurane to maintain the surgical plan can also be observed. The patient woke up without signs of pain in the immediate postoperative period, thus avoiding systemic stress. which conferred the good result of the analgesic protocol instituted.

The analgesic effect of preventive administration of meloxicam in calves submitted to hot-iron dehorning / Efeito analgésico da administração preventiva de meloxicam em bezerros submetidos à descorna com ferro quente

Dehorning is a zootechnical practice that causes severe pain in cattle. Although there are several studies evaluating the effects of analgesics in calf dehorning, none of them used validated pain assessment instruments. We evaluated the analgesic effectiveness of meloxicam administered before dehorning, compared to a control group, using the Unesp-Botucatu, numerical, simple descriptive, and visual analogue scales for pain assessment before and 4, 8, and 24 hours after the dehorning in 44 female calves. All calves received 0.04 mg/kg of xylazine IM 20 minutes before dehorning and local anesthetic block with 2% lidocaine with a vasoconstrictor. Calves were divided into two groups: without (GX; n = 22) or with 0.5 mg/kg of meloxicam (GXM; n = 22) administered intravenously before the procedure. Dehorning was performed through the section of the base of the horn bud, followed by thermocautery disbudding. For comparisons over time, mixed linear or generalized mixed linear model were used. The interaction between groups and study phases was used as fixed effects and each calf as a random effect. Bonferroni post hoc test was used. There was an increase in the pain scores at 4h compared to baseline in both groups (GX and GXM) for the four scales. The scores at 4h were higher in GX compared to GXM for all scales. Meloxicam reduced, but did not eliminate, behavioral expressions of pain in calves submitted to hot-iron dehorning. Therefore, it should be included in the analgesic protocol to improve welfare in calves undergoing dehorning.

A descorna é uma prática zootécnica que causa dor intensa em bovinos. Há na literatura diversos estudos sobre os efeitos de analgésicos para mitigar a dor frente a descorna, mas nenhum usando escalas validadas. Avaliamos a eficácia do meloxicam administrado previamente à descorna, comparado a um grupo controle, utilizando-se as escalas Unesp-Botucatu, numérica, simples descritiva e analógica visual para avaliação da dor antes e 4, 8 e 24 horas após a descorna em 44 bezerros fêmeas tratadas com 0,04 mg/kg de xilazina IM 20 minutos antes da descorna e bloqueio anestésico local com lidocaína a 2% com vasoconstritor. Os bezerros foram alocados em dois grupos: sem (GX; n=22) ou com 0.5 mg/kg de meloxicam (GXM; n=22) administrado por via intravenosa antes do procedimento. Realizou-se a descorna por secção da base do botão cornual seguido de termocauterização. Para as comparações ao longo do tempo, empregou-se o modelo linear ou linear misto. Considerou-se a interação entre grupos e momentos como efeito fixo e cada bezerro como efeito aleatório. As alterações foram inferidas de acordo com o pós-teste de Bonferroni. Para as quatro escalas houve aumento dos escores às 4h comparado ao basal em ambos os grupos (GX e GXM). Os escores de todas as escalas às 4h foram maiores em GX que em GXM. O meloxicam reduziu, mas não aboliu, a expressão comportamental da dor em bezerros submetidos à descorna com ferro quente, o que sugere o uso de terapia antálgica multimodal para realizar tal procedimento e garantir o bem-estar animal.

Assessment of general activity and anxiety-like behavior in mice following tramadol and meloxicam administration for managing immediate post-operative pain

After analgesic administration, we evaluated general activity in the Open-Field and anxiety-like behavior in the Elevated Plus Maze of vasectomized mice. We divided C57BL/6J male mice into eight groups: saline, three non-operated control groups treated with 10 mg/kg meloxicam, 20 mg/kg tramadol, or both intraperitoneally, and four vasectomized mice groups treated with the same analgesic protocol as the control groups. One group of vasectomized mice received both treatments and an additional 10 mg/kg lidocaine at the incision site. We conducted the vasectomy via scrotal approach under isoflurane inhalation anesthesia and performed behavioral tests after full anesthesia recovery. Mice treated with meloxicam demonstrated low ambulation, spontaneous activity, and rearing frequency. Mice treated with tramadol showed spontaneous behavior compared with the saline control. Due to behavior changes demonstrated by meloxicam controls, we were unable to identify whether meloxicam provided adequate analgesia. Vasectomized mice treated with tramadol showed general activity behavior similar to their control but displayed significantly less rearing, suggesting that they were under potential signs of pain or discomfort. In conclusion, the Open Field test and the Elevated Plus Maze can usefully pre-evaluate analgesic protocols to identify possible interference caused by adverse drug effects. For future directions, an appropriate regimen of meloxicam and tramadol for enhancing mice welfare post vasectomy should be better investigated.

Mesenchymal Stem cells in the context of canine atopic dermatitis: A Review

ABSTRACT Canine atopic dermatitis (CAD) is a chronic inflammatory skin disease and has a high frequency among dermatological diseases. The interaction of genetic factors, skin and environmental conditions affect the expression of the disease, developing a complex pathology. Current multimodal treatment has numerous adverse effects and variations in its efficacy and safety, demonstrating the need to develop safe and effective therapeutic resources for patients with CAD. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are multipotent cells, with special characteristics, such as self-renewal, immunomodulatory properties, and de-differentiation, making them useful for several clinical problems. The discovery of the immunosuppressive effect of MSCs on T cells has opened the potential for new perspectives with its use as a therapeutic agent for immune diseases, such as CAD. The scarce number of research using the MSC as a treatment for CAD result in the lack of knowledge about the benefits and possible protocols to be followed for the use of this cell therapy. In this review, we highlighted the clinical studies and potential biological mechanisms of MSC-based cell therapy effects attenuating canine atopic dermatitis compared to conventional treatment, which might lead to a safe improvement of the animals clinical condition in a short period without causing adverse effects.

RESUMO A dermatite atópica canina (DAC) é uma doença inflamatória crônica da pele e tem alta frequência entre as doenças dermatológicas. A interação de fatores genéticos, pele e condições ambientais afetam a expressão da doença, desenvolvendo uma patologia complexa. O tratamento multimodal atual apresenta inúmeros efeitos adversos e variações em sua eficácia e segurança, demonstrando a necessidade de desenvolver recursos terapêuticos seguros e eficazes para pacientes com DAC. As células-tronco mesenquimais (CTM) são células multipotentes, com características especiais, como auto renovação, propriedades imunomoduladoras e desdiferenciação, tornando-se úteis para diversos problemas clínicos. A descoberta do efeito imunossupressor das CTMs sobre as células T abriu o potencial para novas perspectivas com sua utilização como agente terapêutico para doenças imunológicas, como a DAC. O escasso número de pesquisas utilizando o MSC como tratamento para DAC resulta no desconhecimento dos benefícios e dos possíveis protocolos a serem seguidos para a utilização dessa terapia celular. Nesta revisão, destacamos os estudos clínicos e os potenciais mecanismos biológicos dos efeitos da terapia celular baseada em MSC que atenuam a dermatite atópica canina em comparação com o tratamento convencional, podendo levar a uma melhora segura da condição clínica do animal em um curto período, sem causar efeitos adversos.

Reproductive ecology and territorial behavior of Boana goiana (Anura: Hylidae), a gladiator frog from the Brazilian Cerrado

ABSTRACT Anuran males and females adopt different reproductive and behavioral strategies in different contexts. We investigated the reproductive ecology and territorial behavior of the treefrog Boana goiana (B. Lutz, 1968) from the Brazilian Cerrado. We hypothesized that competitor density/proximity would increase the behavioral responses of B. goiana males, and that mating would be assortative. We also tested if the number of eggs correlates with female size and if there is a trade-off between clutch size and egg size. We conducted two territoriality experiments to test the effects of male size, competitor proximity and competitor density. Larger males called more in the presence of a second male. In the second experiment, the largest males emitted more calls and the distance to the nearest male increased as resident males called more. In both experiments, the number of calls was influenced by either male size or spacing between males. Some males behaved as satellites, probably to avoid fights. Our analyses indicate that females choose males with similar sizes to their own, corroborating our hypothesis of size-assortative mating. We found no relationships between female size and clutch size/volume, and between egg size and number of eggs per clutch. We also report multiple spawning for this species. The low incidence of physical combats and the spacing pattern indicate that this species relies almost solely on calls to resolve contests, which could be explained by low motivation, or simply because males avoid combats to decrease injury risks. Thus, acoustic or even multimodal communication seems crucial for social interactions of B. goiana.

Analgesic effects of Ph1 toxin: a review of mechanisms of action involving pain pathways

Abstract Ph1 is a neurotoxin purified from spider venom that acts as a high-voltage-activated (HVA) calcium channel blocker. This spider peptide has shown a high selectivity for N-type HVA calcium channels (NVACC) and an analgesic effect in several animal models of pain. Its activity was associated with a reduction in calcium transients, glutamate release, and reactive oxygen species production from the spinal cord tissue and dorsal ganglia root (DRG) in rats and mice. It has been reported that intrathecal (i.t.) administration of Ph1 to treat chronic pain reverted opioid tolerance with a safer profile than -conotoxin MVIIA, a highly selective NVACC blocker. Following a recent development of recombinant Ph1 (CTK 01512-2), a new molecular target, TRPA1, the structural arrangement of disulphide bridges, and an effect on glial plasticity have been identified. CTK 01512-2 reproduced the antinociceptive effects of the native toxin not only after the intrathecal but also after the intravenous administration. Herein, we review the Ph1 antinociceptive activity in the most relevant pain models and its mechanisms of action, highlighting the impact of CTK 01512-2 synthesis and its potential for multimodal analgesia.

Bloqueio do plano transverso do abdômen guiado por ultrassom em felino submetido a mastectomia regional / Blocking of the abdomen transverse plan guided by ultrasound in feline submitted to regional mastectomy

Os bloqueios locorregionais vêm sendo cada vez mais utilizados na medicina veterinária. O bloqueio do plano transverso do abdômen (TAP Block) é uma técnica de anestesia locorregional, faz parte da estratégia de analgesia multimodal, capaz de promover anestesia e analgesia em regiões de pele, musculatura e peritônio parietal. O objetivo deste trabalho é relatar o bloqueio do plano transverso em um felino macho de dois anos de idade submetido a mastectomia regional. Foram feitos dois pontos de bloqueio do espaço TAP guiado por ultrassom, em cada lado do abdômen: um na parte caudal da região abdominal média, cranial a crista ilíaca, e o outro ponto, caudal a última costela, com 0,5mg/kg de bupivacaína a 0,25% em cada ponto, padronizando um volume injetado de 0,6mL. Foi utilizado acepromazina (0,05mg/kg), petidina (3mg/kg), cetamina (2mg/kg) e midazolam (0,3mg/kg) como medicação pré-anestésica, indução com propofol (3mg/kg) e manutenção por anestesia inalatória com isoflurano. Conclui-se que o TAP block foi eficaz para mastectomia regional abdominal, com alto índice de segurança e de fácil execução com treinamento adequado, mesmo com transdutores de baixa frequência.

Locoregional blocks have been increasingly used in veterinary medicine. Blocking the transverse plane of the abdomen (TAP Block) is a technique of locoregional anesthesia, it is part of the multimodal analgesia strategy, capable of promoting anesthesia and analgesia in regions of skin, musculature and parietal peritoneum. The aim of this study is to report the transverse plane block in a two-year-old male cat undergoing regional mastectomy. Two ultrasound-guided TAP space block points were made on each side of the abdomen: one in the caudal part of the middle abodminal region, cranial to the iliac crest, and the other point, caudal to the last rib, with 0.5mg/kg of 0.25% bupivacaine at each point, standardizing an injected volume of 0.6mL. Acepromazine (0.05mg/kg), pethidine (3mg/kg), ketamine (2mg/kg) and midazolam (0.3mg/kg) were used as pre-anesthetic medication, induction with propofol (3mg/kg) and maintenance by inhalation anesthesia with isoflurane. It is concluded that the TAP block was effective for regional abdominal mastectomy, with a high safety index and easy to perform with adequate training, even with less frequent transducers.

Reproductive ecology and territorial behavior of Boana goiana (Anura: Hylidae), a gladiator frog from the Brazilian Cerrado

Anuran males and females adopt different reproductive and behavioral strategies in different contexts. We investigated the reproductive ecology and territorial behavior of the treefrog Boana goiana (B. Lutz, 1968) from the Brazilian Cerrado. We hypothesized that competitor density/proximity would increase the behavioral responses of B. goiana males, and that mating would be assortative. We also tested if the number of eggs correlates with female size and if there is a trade-off between clutch size and egg size. We conducted two territoriality experiments to test the effects of male size, competitor proximity and competitor density. Larger males called more in the presence of a second male. In the second experiment, the largest males emitted more calls and the distance to the nearest male increased as resident males called more. In both experiments, the number of calls was influenced by either male size or spacing between males. Some males behaved as satellites, probably to avoid fights. Our analyses indicate that females choose males with similar sizes to their own, corroborating our hypothesis of size-assortative mating. We found no relationships between female size and clutch size/volume, and between egg size and number of eggs per clutch. We also report multiple spawning for this species. The low incidence of physical combats and the spacing pattern indicate that this species relies almost solely on calls to resolve contests, which could be explained by low motivation, or simply because males avoid combats to decrease injury risks. Thus, acoustic or even multimodal communication seems crucial for social interactions of B. goiana.(AU)

Uso do sulfato de magnésio (mgso4) na anestesia total intravenosa como adjuvante anestésico e analgésico em cadela submetida à mastectomia parcial bilateral – relato de caso / Use of magnesium sulfate (MgSO4) in total intravenous anesthesia as anesthetic and analgesic adjuvant in a dog submitted to bilateral partial mastectomy - Case report

A utilização do sulfato de magnésio (MgSO4) está crescendo gradativamente na Medicina Veterinária, principalmente na anestesiologia, pois é um fármaco que possui propriedades analgésicas e sedativas com potencial para neuro e cardioproteção. Apresenta um grande papel na anestesia e analgesia multimodal, principalmente para controle de dor no trans e pós-operatório, reduzindo a necessidade e a dose de outros fármacos analgésicos, sendo efetivo para o tratamento do controle de dor. Este relato descreve o caso de um cão, fêmea, da raça fox paulistinha, com onze anos de idade, que foi submetido à mastectomia parcial bilateral, tendo sido anestesiada com o emprego da técnica total intravenosa com o Propofol, associada à infusão contínua do sulfato de magnésio com o objetivo de avaliar a eficácia do mesmo em relação à analgesia no transoperatório e pós-operatório, redução na taxa de infusão do fármaco indutor e necessidade de resgate analgésico.

The use of magnesium sulfate (MgSO4) is gradually increasing in Veterinary Medicine, mainly in anesthesiology, as it is a drug that has analgesic and sedative properties with potential for neuro and cardioprotection. It plays a great role in anesthesia and multimodal analgesia, mainly for pain control in the trans and postoperative period, reducing the need and dose of other analgesic drugs, being effective for the treatment of pain control. This report describes the case of a female fox paulistinha dog, 11 years old, who underwent bilateral partial mastectomy where she was anesthetized using the Total Intravenous Technique with Propofol associated with the continuous infusion of magnesium sulphate with objective of evaluating the efficacy of the same in relation to analgesia in the intraoperative and postoperative period, reduction in the rate of infusion of the inducing drug and need for analgesic rescue.

Mesenchymal Stem cells in the context of canine atopic dermatitis: A Review / Células-tronco mesenquimais no contexto da dermatite atópica canina: uma revisão

Canine atopic dermatitis (CAD) is a chronic inflammatory skin disease and has a high frequency among dermatological diseases. The interaction of genetic factors, skin and environmental conditions affect the expression of the disease, developing a complex pathology. Current multimodal treatment has numerous adverse effects and variations in its efficacy and safety, demonstrating the need to develop safe and effective therapeutic resources for patients with CAD. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are multipotent cells, with special characteristics, such as self-renewal, immunomodulatory properties, and de-differentiation, making them useful for several clinical problems. The discovery of the immunosuppressive effect of MSCs on T cells has opened the potential for new perspectives with its use as a therapeutic agent for immune diseases, such as CAD. The scarce number of research using the MSC as a treatment for CAD result in the lack of knowledge about the benefits and possible protocols to be followed for the use of this cell therapy. In this review, we highlighted the clinical studies and potential biological mechanisms of MSC-based cell therapy effects attenuating canine atopic dermatitis compared to conventional treatment, which might lead to a safe improvement of the animals clinical condition in a short period without causing adverse effects.(AU)

A dermatite atópica canina (DAC) é uma doença inflamatória crônica da pele e tem alta frequência entre as doenças dermatológicas. A interação de fatores genéticos, pele e condições ambientais afetam a expressão da doença, desenvolvendo uma patologia complexa. O tratamento multimodal atual apresenta inúmeros efeitos adversos e variações em sua eficácia e segurança, demonstrando a necessidade de desenvolver recursos terapêuticos seguros e eficazes para pacientes com DAC. As células-tronco mesenquimais (CTM) são células multipotentes, com características especiais, como auto renovação, propriedades imunomoduladoras e desdiferenciação, tornando-se úteis para diversos problemas clínicos. A descoberta do efeito imunossupressor das CTMs sobre as células T abriu o potencial para novas perspectivas com sua utilização como agente terapêutico para doenças imunológicas, como a DAC. O escasso número de pesquisas utilizando o MSC como tratamento para DAC resulta no desconhecimento dos benefícios e dos possíveis protocolos a serem seguidos para a utilização dessa terapia celular. Nesta revisão, destacamos os estudos clínicos e os potenciais mecanismos biológicos dos efeitos da terapia celular baseada em MSC que atenuam a dermatite atópica canina em comparação com o tratamento convencional, podendo levar a uma melhora segura da condição clínica do animal em um curto período, sem causar efeitos adversos.(AU)

Uso do sulfato de magnésio (mgso4) na anestesia total intravenosa como adjuvante anestésico e analgésico em cadela submetida à mastectomia parcial bilateral relato de caso / Use of magnesium sulfate (MgSO4) in total intravenous anesthesia as anesthetic and analgesic adjuvant in a dog submitted to bilateral partial mastectomy - Case report

A utilização do sulfato de magnésio (MgSO4) está crescendo gradativamente na Medicina Veterinária, principalmente na anestesiologia, pois é um fármaco que possui propriedades analgésicas e sedativas com potencial para neuro e cardioproteção. Apresenta um grande papel na anestesia e analgesia multimodal, principalmente para controle de dor no trans e pós-operatório, reduzindo a necessidade e a dose de outros fármacos analgésicos, sendo efetivo para o tratamento do controle de dor. Este relato descreve o caso de um cão, fêmea, da raça fox paulistinha, com onze anos de idade, que foi submetido à mastectomia parcial bilateral, tendo sido anestesiada com o emprego da técnica total intravenosa com o Propofol, associada à infusão contínua do sulfato de magnésio com o objetivo de avaliar a eficácia do mesmo em relação à analgesia no transoperatório e pós-operatório, redução na taxa de infusão do fármaco indutor e necessidade de resgate analgésico.(AU)

The use of magnesium sulfate (MgSO4) is gradually increasing in Veterinary Medicine, mainly in anesthesiology, as it is a drug that has analgesic and sedative properties with potential for neuro and cardioprotection. It plays a great role in anesthesia and multimodal analgesia, mainly for pain control in the trans and postoperative period, reducing the need and dose of other analgesic drugs, being effective for the treatment of pain control. This report describes the case of a female fox paulistinha dog, 11 years old, who underwent bilateral partial mastectomy where she was anesthetized using the Total Intravenous Technique with Propofol associated with the continuous infusion of magnesium sulphate with objective of evaluating the efficacy of the same in relation to analgesia in the intraoperative and postoperative period, reduction in the rate of infusion of the inducing drug and need for analgesic rescue.(AU)

Reproductive ecology and territorial behavior of Boana goiana (Anura: Hylidae), a gladiator frog from the Brazilian Cerrado

Anuran males and females adopt different reproductive and behavioral strategies in different contexts. We investigated the reproductive ecology and territorial behavior of the treefrog Boana goiana (B. Lutz, 1968) from the Brazilian Cerrado. We hypothesized that competitor density/proximity would increase the behavioral responses of B. goiana males, and that mating would be assortative. We also tested if the number of eggs correlates with female size and if there is a trade-off between clutch size and egg size. We conducted two territoriality experiments to test the effects of male size, competitor proximity and competitor density. Larger males called more in the presence of a second male. In the second experiment, the largest males emitted more calls and the distance to the nearest male increased as resident males called more. In both experiments, the number of calls was influenced by either male size or spacing between males. Some males behaved as satellites, probably to avoid fights. Our analyses indicate that females choose males with similar sizes to their own, corroborating our hypothesis of size-assortative mating. We found no relationships between female size and clutch size/volume, and between egg size and number of eggs per clutch. We also report multiple spawning for this species. The low incidence of physical combats and the spacing pattern indicate that this species relies almost solely on calls to resolve contests, which could be explained by low motivation, or simply because males avoid combats to decrease injury risks. Thus, acoustic or even multimodal communication seems crucial for social interactions of B. goiana.(AU)