Characterization of coccidiosis and evaluation of suggestive cases of subclinical necrotic enteritis in broilers / Caracterização de coccidiose e avaliação de casos sugestivos de enterite necrótica subclínica em frangos de corte

This study performed the characterization of coccidiosis in broilers and evaluated the occurrence of suggestive cases of necrotic enteritis (NE), seeking if there is an association between the diseases in Brazilian flocks. Two hundred and fifty-six birds from 32 flocks were evaluated. Macroscopic and histopathological lesions were graduated for coccidiosis and NE. Intestinal content was investigated by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for seven species of Eimeria and by selective anaerobic culture for Clostridium perfringens and identification of the NetB gene. Flocks positive for coccidiosis represented 93.8%. Macroscopic lesions of coccidiosis were Grade 1 for E. acervulina (27%); E. tenella (9.7%) and E. maxima (8.9%). Histopathological evaluation showed Grade 1 in duodenum (38.2%); jejunum (21.4%); cecum (9.3%) and ileum (5%). PCR demonstrated positivity for E. tenella (21.9%), E. maxima (18.8%), and E. acervulina (3.1%). Suggestive macroscopic lesions of necrotic enteritis ranged from Grade 1 (16%), 2 (23%) and 3 (10,9%). Histopathology indicated the absence of necrosis, showing only hemorrhage in the mucosa and submucosa, with the presence of Eimeria spp. Clostridium perfringens type A netB+ was not isolated, demonstrating that macroscopic lesions found mostly in the jejunum did not characterize NE, based on histopathology and negativity of the NetB gene. The study suggests that, due to the high occurrence of coccidiosis, many macroscopic findings suggestive of NE are, in fact, attributed to atypical lesions caused by the reproduction of Eimeria spp.

Este estudo realizou a caracterização de coccidiose em frangos de corte e avaliou a ocorrência de casos sugestivos de enterite necrótica (EN), buscando se há alguma associação entre estas duas enfermidades em lotes de frango de corte no Brasil. Foram avaliadas 256 aves de 32 lotes. Lesões macroscópicas e histopatológicas foram graduadas para coccidiose e EN. O conteúdo intestinal foi investigado por reação em cadeia da polimerase (PCR) para sete espécies de Eimeria e por cultura anaeróbia seletiva para Clostridium perfringens e identificação do gene NetB. Os lotes positivos para coccidiose representaram 93,8%. Lesões macroscópicas de coccidiose foram de Grau 1 para E. acervulina (27%); E. tenella (9,7%) e E. maxima (8,9%). A avaliação histopatológica mostrou Grau 1 no duodeno (38,2%); jejuno (21,4%); ceco (9,3%) e íleo (5%). A PCR demonstrou positividade para E. tenella (21,9%), E. maxima (18,8%) e E. acervulina (3,1%). Lesões macroscópicas sugestivas de enterite necrótica variaram de grau 1 (16%), 2 (23%) e 3 (10,9%). A histopatologia indicou ausência de necrose, apresentando apenas hemorragia em mucosa e submucosa, com presença de Eimeria spp. Clostridium perfringens tipo A netB + não foi isolado, demonstrando que lesões macroscópicas encontradas principalmente no jejuno não caracterizaram NE, com base na histopatologia e negatividade do gene NetB. O estudo sugere que, em virtude da alta ocorrência de coccidiose nos lotes, muitos achados macroscópicos sugestivos de EN são, na verdade, atribuídos a lesões atípicas provocadas pela reprodução de Eimeria spp.

Caudal vena cava thrombosis in cows

Background: Caudal vena cava thrombosis (CVCT) is a serious disease that affects cattle. Due to being commonly a fatal pathology, it causes economic losses for producers and national livestock. Thus, the present study describes the epidemiological, clinical, ultrasonographic imaging and pathological findings in 4 cattle with CVCT attended at the Veterinary Hospital (HV) of the Institute of Veterinary Medicine (IMV) of the Federal University of Pará (UFPA). Cases: The animals were crossbreds of the Gir x Holstein and Jersey x Holstein breeds, aged between 4 and 8 years old, raised in semi-extensive and intensive systems. The main clinical signs were pale mucous membranes, reluctance to move, markedly positive venous pulse, engorged jugular with positive stasis test, and serous to mucopurulent nasal exudation. The auscultation of the lung fields revealed tachypnea, silent areas, wheezing, and pleural friction, in addition to coughing, expiratory dyspnea, mouth breathing, and expiratory grunts. One animal had severe hemoptysis. The ultrasound examination performed on a bovine revealed a circular and dilated caudal vena cava in cross-section. Laboratory tests in 3 cattle revealed anemia, leukocytosis with neutrophil left shift, and increased liver enzymes. At necropsy, all cattle had thrombi in the hepatic segment of the caudal vena cava. In the lung, multiple abscesses and areas of parenchymal consolidation, crateriform areas, as well as thrombi in the arteries were observed. Pleural effusion and ascites were seen in all cattle. Clotted blood was seen in the trachea, bronchi, and on rumen contents of an animal. Histopathological alterations seen in the liver were centrilobular hepatocytes with frequent intensely eosinophilic cytoplasm, and pyknotic, karyorrhexic, or absent nuclei and cell borders barely distinguishable. In the lung were nodular and random formations, with a thick wall of mature connective tissue and a central area full of cellular debris, necrotic cells, and intact and degenerated neutrophils (abscesses). Discussion: The set of diagnostic tools that include epidemiology, clinical signs and clinical examinations, ultrasound, necropsy, and histopathology were efficient in the diagnosis of CVCT. The possible causes that led the animals to develop CVCT were diffuse septic pododermatitis in the medial nail of the right pelvic limb associated with traumatic reticuloabomasitis and liver abscesses. In 1 cow, it was not possible to establish the probable cause of CVCT, but for the other cattle in the present study, the probable causes are in agreement with studies that have shown that this disease can occur as a sequel to several septic conditions such as jugular phlebitis, mastitis, hoof rot, enteritis, pneumonia, traumatic reticulopericarditis, acidosis and rumen laminitis, as well as omphalophlebitis in calves. The tachypnea, serous to purulent nasal exudation, pulmonary wheezing, pleural friction, coughing, and expiratory dyspnea, usually with open mouth breathing and expiratory grunts evidenced in the animals of this study, occurred as a result of embolic abscess pneumonia. The presence of multiple lung abscesses, areas of parenchymal consolidation, crateriform foci, and thrombi in the pulmonary arteries and chronic suppurative pneumonia, found at necropsy of the animals in the present study, are related to the development of a thrombus in the caudal vena cava that detaches and embolizes and lodges in the pulmonary arteries. The histopathological findings in 1 cow are compatible with lesions found at necropsy and draw attention to embolic pneumonia and liver lesions, which, are related to thrombi in pulmonary arteries and abscesses formed from CVCT, as well as venous stasis exerted in the return circulation.

Canine gastrointestinal pythiosis: a case report in Brazilian Pantanal from a diagnostic approach / Pitiose gastrointestinal canina: relato de caso no Pantanal brasileiro a partir de uma abordagem diagnóstica

Pythiosis is caused by an aquatic fungus-like organism (Pythium insidiosum). It is considered an important public health issue as it can affect both animals and humans. This paper reports a case of gastrointestinal pythiosis in a dog. The patient was hospitalized for four days, during which the animal received supportive and symptomatic treatment. But the applied treatment was unsuccessful and the dog's clinical condition worsened, culminating in death. Complementary imaging tests such as radiography and ultrasonography, as well as hematological tests, were performed during the hospitalization period. The definitive diagnosis was reached in the postmortem as macroscopic and microscopic characteristics suggested the presence of intestinal granuloma and accentuated multifocal suppurative necrotic enteritis. Additionally, the histological evaluation revealed morphological structures compatible with P. insidiosum. Also, the results of nested PCR performed showed partial amplification (105 bp) of the ITS1 region of the ribosomal gene of P. insidiosum.(AU)

A pitiose é causada por um organismo aquático semelhante a um fungo (Pythium insidiosum) e considerada um importante problema de saúde pública, pois pode afetar animais e humanos. Este artigo relata um caso de pitiose gastrointestinal em um cão. O paciente ficou internado por quatro dias, período em que o animal recebeu tratamento de suporte e sintomático. No entanto, o tratamento aplicado não teve sucesso e o quadro clínico do cão piorou, culminando com a morte. Exames de imagem complementares, como radiografia e ultrassonografia, bem como exames hematológicos, foram realizados durante o período de internação. O diagnóstico definitivo foi feito na autópsia, pois as características macroscópicas e microscópicas sugeriam a presença de granuloma intestinal e acentuada enterite necrótica multifocal supurativa. Além disso, a avaliação histológica revelou estruturas morfológicas compatíveis com P. insidiosum. Além disso, a nested PCR foi realizada e mostrou amplificação parcial (105 pb) da região ITS1 do gene ribossomal de P. insidiosum.(AU)

Macracanthorhynchus hirudinaceus em uma porca da Província de El Oro - Equador / Macracanthorhynchus hirudinaceus in a sow in El Oro Province - Ecuador

Background: Macracantorhincosis is a zoonotic disease resulting from inadequate sanitary conditions, which occurs in pigs infected by acanthocephalic helminths called Macracanthorhynchus hirudinaceus. The eggs of these parasites are resistant to cold, high temperatures and can survive up to 3 years in the soil. They are consumed by dung beetles of the Scarabeidae family causing the parasite to evolve into its infective form, the cystacanth. The pig becomes infected after ingestion of either larvae or adult forms of these coleoptera. This work describes a case report of macracantorhincosis found in a pig from the canton of Zaruma located in the province of El Oro, Ecuador. Case: One sow, approximately 24-month-old, weighing 30 kg, presented cachexia, muscle weakness, pale oral and ocular mucosa and a body temperature above 39.4°C. The animal had a bulge on the ventral side of the neck, which evolved causing progressive discomfort to the point that the animal stopped eating. The sow was dewormed for 3 consecutive days. Fifteen days later, the animal had convulsions and muscle tremors, and died some hours after the symptoms started. During necropsy procedure, pale digestive tract membranes and nodules with fibrin were observed in the small intestine (jejunum), which was incised and the presence of parasites adhered to the granulomas detected. Two granulomas for morphological and histological studies and stool samples for coproparasitic test were collected. The collected parasites were fixed in a 10% buffered formalin solution, cross-sections were made and routinely processed for histological studies. The 5 µm thick sections were stained using the hematoxylin and eosin (HE) technique. The parasite's action involves perforation of the intestinal wall though its proboscis causing peritonitis and enteritis. Other conditions in intestinal dissection such as necrotic areas, inflammation of the submucosa and adult parasites adhered to the intestinal mucosa were also observed. The coproparasitic examination was performed using the flotation and sedimentation techniques. The coproparasitic test detected dark colored feces, semi-solid consistency and the presence of Macracanthorhynchus hirudinaceu eggs. In the histological evaluation of the cross section of the parasite, the presence of circular and longitudinal muscle fibers and lemniscus with their constrictor muscles was observed. Cuticle, hypodermis with tapered fibers and a large number of developing mature eggs were also reported. Discussion: There is no pathognomonic symptomatology about this parasitosis and peritonitis can be generated by intestinal perforations. The findings at necropsy were ulcerations, inflammation in the small intestine and the presence of numerous nodules in the serous layer, where there was penetration of the parasite's proboscis. When fixed to the mucosa, these parasites cause ulcerations, inflammation and necrosis in the wall of the small intestine. The hypodermic layer is thicker than the muscular layer and the presence of leminis with their constricting muscles are typical features of acanthocephalus. It is considered appropriate to carry out epidemiological studies on the prevalence of the parasite Macracanthorhynchus hirudinaceus at pig farming system in the region, in order to determine the main risk factors. In Ecuador, cases of this disease in humans have not yet been reported, but have already been described in other countries, so the presence of this parasite in family swine farming may be considered a zoonotic-type risk factor.

Salmonelose em bezerros pelo sorovar Dublin no estado do Paraná, Brasil - aspectos clínico-patológicos / Salmonellosis in calves by serovar Dublin in Paraná State, Brazil - clinicopathological aspects

Background: Calf diarrhea remains one of the main diseases affecting the cattle industry. Persistence of this significant problem is associated with the complexity of factors that may be involved (infectious, environmental). An accurate diagnosis is essential for confirming the cause and helping clinicians and cattle producers to apply appropriate strategies in a timely manner. This report describes the histological changes according to the degree of salmonellosis severity, which is a contagious infectious disease caused by Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica, a Gram-negative bacterium, in two beef calves in northern Paraná State, southern Brazil. Cases: Two 90-day-old crossbred Angus and Nellore calves from a beef farm in northern Paraná State were referred to a Veterinary Hospital. Animal 1- developed acute clinical signs (enteritis, ataxia, and muscle rigidity) and died the day after the signs began. Gross findings included heavy and non-collapsed lungs, pulmonary oedema, hepatomegaly, enteritis, and severe diffuse typhlitis. Microscopic analysis revealed severe diffuse necrotic enteritis, typhlitis, severe diffuse interstitial pneumonia, moderate centrilobular hepatic necrosis, mild multifocal nephritis, and severe spleen and lymph node necrosis. Paratyphoid nodules were evidenced on the liver, spleen, and mesenteric lymph nodes. Animal 2- presented apathy, green fibrinous diarrhea, and died three days after the onset of clinical signs. The macroscopic examination showed moderate diffuse enteritis and hepatosplenomegaly. At the microscopic examination, many paratyphoid nodules were observed on the liver, spleen, kidneys, and Peyer's patches, which were associated with intralesional and intravascular bacilli. Additional findings included severe diffuse fibrinous necrotic enteritis with intralesional bacilli, diffuse interstitial pneumonia, multifocal splenic necrosis, lymphoid depletion, and moderate multifocal to coalescent lymphocytic nephritis. Histological Gram staining was performed on selected samples, revealing intralesional Gram-negative bacilli in the liver and intestine. Thus, liver and intestine fragments were used for the microbiological examination. Microbiological culture, isolation and biochemical tests identified the genus Salmonella spp. Then, the colonies were subjected to serological tests for serovar identification, according to ISO/TR 6579-3, which determined the serovar Dublin. After identifying the disease etiological agent, the outbreak was controlled by appropriate antibiotic therapy combined with the correction of sanitary measures. Discussion: Enteritis is a frequent disease in calves, posing a diagnostic challenge in identifying the etiological agent. In the present case, the histological, microbiological, and serological results confirmed a disseminated Salmonella spp. infection. The microscopic findings, such as interstitial pneumonia, fibrinous necrotic enteritis markedly in ileum and paratyphoid nodules in various organs, are the most common aspects of the disease. However, fibrinous cholecystitis, which is considered pathognomonic for salmonellosis, was not observed in this study. Therefore, the absence of such a lesion should not exclude the disease in sick animals. A microscopic injury score was used to determine lesion severity by assigning values from 1 to 4, wherein: 1 = no apparent lesions, 2 = mild lesions, 3 = moderate lesions, and 4 = severe lesions. Both calves were scored as 4. Multiple predisposing factors for the condition were identified in this farm such as different age animals in the same paddock and no specific paddock for sick animals, given that the infectious agent remains in feces, saliva, and nasal discharge. The serovar Dublin induces several clinical signs such as septicemic, respiratory, and enteric manifestations, making a clinical diagnosis a challenge

Outbreak of Clostridium perfringens type D enterotoxemia in sheep / Surto de enterotoxemia por Clostridium perfringens tipo D em ovinos

This work describes the first Brazilian laboratory-confirmed outbreak of enterotoxemia caused by Clostridium perfringens type D in sheep, which occurred in the state of Paraná. We address the epidemiological aspects involved, the diagnostic modalities employed, and the clinical signs and pathological findings observed. Eight healthy pregnant female sheep with no history of vaccination for clostridiosis presented with a history of abrupt feeding changes and neurological manifestations that quickly evolved to illness, coma and death. Four other females with clinical neurological signs were referred to the Veterinary Hospital of the Universidade Federal do Paraná, Palotina Sector. These animals presented with lethargy, motor incoordination, opisthotonus, pedal movements, muscle tremors, spastic paralysis, bruxism, mandibular trismus, sialorrhea, hyperexcitability and the inability to stand. They were examined and euthanized due to the seriousness of the clinical picture with an unfavorable prognosis. We performed gross anatomical and microscopic analyses of the organs and intestinal contents. We also performed bacterial isolation with molecular typing. From the intestinal contents, we detected toxins by means of the seroneutralization technique in mice. At necropsy, we noted pulmonary edema (2/4), necrotizing enteritis (4/4) and hyperemia of the leptomeninges (1/4). Microscopically, we observed lymphohistiocytic interstitial pneumonia, necrotic enteritis associated with the presence of rods, and nephrosis with interstitial lymphohistiocytic nephritis. No significant brain lesions were observed. Using serum neutralization, we identified epsilon toxin in the intestinal contents of all four animals. C. perfringens type D was identified. Based on the history, clinical signs, postmortem findings, and laboratory confirmation of the presence of epsilon toxin, we concluded that C. perfringens type D enterotoxemia caused this outbreak of sheep deaths.

Este trabalho descreve o primeiro surto brasileiro com confirmação laboratorial de enterotoxemia em ovinos por Clostridium perfringens tipo D, ocorrido no estado do Paraná, abordando os aspectos epidemiológicos envolvidos, sinais clínicos observados, achados patológicos e diagnóstico empregado. Oito fêmeas ovina, gestantes, em bom estado corporal e com histórico de mudanças bruscas na alimentação, sem histórico de vacinação para clostridioses, apresentaram manifestações clínicas neurológicas que logo evoluíram para decúbito, coma e morte. Outras quatro fêmeas apresentaram os sinais clínicos neurológicos e foram encaminhadas ao Hospital Veterinário da Universidade Federal do Paraná, setor Palotina. Os animais foram examinados e submetidos à eutanásia devido à gravidade do quadro clínico e prognóstico desfavorável. Destes quatro animais foram coletados fragmentos de órgãos e do conteúdo intestinal. Foi realizada análise macroscópica e microscópica dos órgãos, bem como isolamento bacteriano, tipificação molecular do agente e a detecção das toxinas por meio da técnica de soroneutralização em camundongos a partir do conteúdo intestinal. Os quatro ovinos examinados apresentaram letargia, incoordenação motora, opistótono, movimentos de pedalagem, tremores musculares, paralisia espástica, bruxismo, trismo mandibular, sialorréia, hiperexcitabilidade e decúbito. Na necropsia, constatou-se edema pulmonar (2/4), enterite necrohemorrágica (4/4) e hiperemia de leptomeninges (1/4). Microscopicamente havia pneumonia intersticial linfohistiocitária, enterite necrótica associada com a presença de bastonetes e nefrose com nefrite intersticial linfohistiocitária. Não foram observadas lesões encefálicas dignas de nota em função do quadro agudo da doença. Por meio da soroneutralização foi possível identificar a presença da toxina épsilon no conteúdo intestinal dos quatro...

Outbreak of Clostridium perfringens type D enterotoxemia in sheep / Surto de enterotoxemia por Clostridium perfringens tipo D em ovinos

This work describes the first Brazilian laboratory-confirmed outbreak of enterotoxemia caused by Clostridium perfringens type D in sheep, which occurred in the state of Paraná. We address the epidemiological aspects involved, the diagnostic modalities employed, and the clinical signs and pathological findings observed. Eight healthy pregnant female sheep with no history of vaccination for clostridiosis presented with a history of abrupt feeding changes and neurological manifestations that quickly evolved to illness, coma and death. Four other females with clinical neurological signs were referred to the Veterinary Hospital of the Universidade Federal do Paraná, Palotina Sector. These animals presented with lethargy, motor incoordination, opisthotonus, pedal movements, muscle tremors, spastic paralysis, bruxism, mandibular trismus, sialorrhea, hyperexcitability and the inability to stand. They were examined and euthanized due to the seriousness of the clinical picture with an unfavorable prognosis. We performed gross anatomical and microscopic analyses of the organs and intestinal contents. We also performed bacterial isolation with molecular typing. From the intestinal contents, we detected toxins by means of the seroneutralization technique in mice. At necropsy, we noted pulmonary edema (2/4), necrotizing enteritis (4/4) and hyperemia of the leptomeninges (1/4). Microscopically, we observed lymphohistiocytic interstitial pneumonia, necrotic enteritis associated with the presence of rods, and nephrosis with interstitial lymphohistiocytic nephritis. No significant brain lesions were observed. Using serum neutralization, we identified epsilon toxin in the intestinal contents of all four animals. C. perfringens type D was identified. Based on the history, clinical signs, postmortem findings, and laboratory confirmation of the presence of epsilon toxin, we concluded that C. perfringens type D enterotoxemia caused this outbreak of sheep deaths.(AU)

Este trabalho descreve o primeiro surto brasileiro com confirmação laboratorial de enterotoxemia em ovinos por Clostridium perfringens tipo D, ocorrido no estado do Paraná, abordando os aspectos epidemiológicos envolvidos, sinais clínicos observados, achados patológicos e diagnóstico empregado. Oito fêmeas ovina, gestantes, em bom estado corporal e com histórico de mudanças bruscas na alimentação, sem histórico de vacinação para clostridioses, apresentaram manifestações clínicas neurológicas que logo evoluíram para decúbito, coma e morte. Outras quatro fêmeas apresentaram os sinais clínicos neurológicos e foram encaminhadas ao Hospital Veterinário da Universidade Federal do Paraná, setor Palotina. Os animais foram examinados e submetidos à eutanásia devido à gravidade do quadro clínico e prognóstico desfavorável. Destes quatro animais foram coletados fragmentos de órgãos e do conteúdo intestinal. Foi realizada análise macroscópica e microscópica dos órgãos, bem como isolamento bacteriano, tipificação molecular do agente e a detecção das toxinas por meio da técnica de soroneutralização em camundongos a partir do conteúdo intestinal. Os quatro ovinos examinados apresentaram letargia, incoordenação motora, opistótono, movimentos de pedalagem, tremores musculares, paralisia espástica, bruxismo, trismo mandibular, sialorréia, hiperexcitabilidade e decúbito. Na necropsia, constatou-se edema pulmonar (2/4), enterite necrohemorrágica (4/4) e hiperemia de leptomeninges (1/4). Microscopicamente havia pneumonia intersticial linfohistiocitária, enterite necrótica associada com a presença de bastonetes e nefrose com nefrite intersticial linfohistiocitária. Não foram observadas lesões encefálicas dignas de nota em função do quadro agudo da doença. Por meio da soroneutralização foi possível identificar a presença da toxina épsilon no conteúdo intestinal dos quatro...(AU)

Accidental poisoning by castor bean (Ricinus communis) cake in horses / Intoxicação acidental por torta de mamona (Ricinus communis) em equinos

Ricinus communis is a shrub of the family Euphorbiaceae popularly known in Brazil as "mamona" or "carrapateira". It is an oleaginous plant whose seeds have been used mainly in biodiesel production. Plant seed oil can be extracted mechanically or using solvents, generating castor bean cake and castor bean meal as by-products, respectively. Accidental ingestion of these by-products can cause poisoning in animals and humans, characterized by digestive signs resulting from the presence of a toxalbumin called ricin. Seed toxicity varies among animal species; in horses, the lethal dose of seeds is 0.1 g/kg of body weight. The literature presents plenty of studies addressing poisoning by R. communis in different animal species and in humans; however, reports are scarce and little information is available on the pathological aspects of poisoning regarding equines. Therefore, the present study aimed to describe the epidemiological, clinical and pathological aspects observed in an outbreak of accidental poisoning with castor bean cake in horses. The equines were supplemented with palm kernel (Elaeis guianeesis) cake; however, in the purchase of a new batch, there was an error in the order, and castor bean cake was requested instead. Four horses that received castor bean cake presented clinical signs indicative of colic, which started about 21 hours after administration. Three of these horses died, with clinical evolution from 2 to 4.5 hours; the other animal was treated with intravenous fluid and antibiotic therapy and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and recovered after five days. In the necropsy of two of these horses, the main lesions were found in the small intestine, where mucosae with pronounced redness and covered with a thin layer of yellow fibrous material were observed. In the intestinal lumen, there was a large amount of bloody liquid. The stomach was full, and dark lumps similar to crushed castor bean seeds were observed in the contents. The adrenal glands of both horses presented congestion and hemorrhage in the cortex. In microscopy, the main lesion was an acute, diffuse and accentuated fibrin-necrotic enteropathy affecting the jejunum. The diagnosis of castor bean cake poisoning was based on the circumstantial evidence of by-product consumption supported by clinical and pathological aspects. The results indicate that castor bean cake commercially available as fertilizer is extremely toxic when ingested, and there is a need for appropriate detoxification or labeling informing of its toxicity.(AU)

Ricinus communis é um arbusto da família Euphorbiaceae conhecido popularmente como "mamona" ou "carrapateira". A planta é considerada oleaginosa e suas sementes têm sido utilizadas, principalmente, na produção de biodiesel. A extração do óleo pode ser mecânica ou com solventes, gerando, como subprodutos, a torta de mamona e a farinha de mamona, respectivamente. A ingestão acidental desses subprodutos pode causar intoxicação em animais e humanos, caracterizada por sinais digestivos devido a toxalbumina ricina. A toxidez das sementes varia entre as espécies animais, em equinos a dose letal de sementes é de 0,1g/kg de peso vivo. Há vasta literatura sobre a intoxicação por R. communis em diferentes espécies animais e humanos. Em relação aos equinos os relatos são escassos e com poucas informações sobre os aspectos patológicos da intoxicação. Assim, os objetivos do presente estudo foram descrever os aspectos epidemiológicos, clínicos e patológicos observados em um surto de intoxicação acidental por torta de mamona em equinos. Os equinos eram suplementados com torta de dendê (Elaeis guianeesis), no entanto, na compra de uma nova partida, houve um erro no pedido sendo solicitada torta de mamona. Os quatro equinos que receberam a torta de mamona apresentaram sinais clínicos indicativos de cólica, que iniciaram cerca de 21 horas após administração. Três destes morreram, com evolução clínica 2 a 4,5 horas, o outro animal foi tratado com fluidoterapia intravenosa, antibioticoterapia e anti-inflamatório não esteroidal, recuperando-se em 5 dias. Na necropsia de dois destes equinos, as principais lesões foram encontradas no intestino delgado, sendo observadas mucosas com avermelhamento acentuado e recobertas por fina camada de material amarelado fibrinoso. No lúmen intestinal, havia grande quantidade de líquido sanguinolento. O estômago estava repleto de grumos escuros semelhantes às sementes trituradas da mamona em meio ao conteúdo. As adrenais de ambos equinos apresentavam congestão e hemorragias corticais. Na microscopia, a principal lesão foi uma enteropatia fibrino-necrótica, aguda, difusa e acentuada, afetando com maior intensidade o jejuno. O diagnóstico de intoxicação por torta de mamona foi baseado na evidência circunstancial de consumo do subproduto, sendo corroborado pelos aspectos clínicos e patológicos. Os resultados indicam que a torta de mamona vendida para fertilização do solo é extremamente tóxica quando ingerida, havendo a necessidade de detoxicação ou rotulagem adequada informando sobre a sua toxicidade.(AU)

Accidental poisoning by castor bean (Ricinus communis) cake in horses / Intoxicação acidental por torta de mamona (Ricinus communis) em equinos

Ricinus communis is a shrub of the family Euphorbiaceae popularly known in Brazil as "mamona" or "carrapateira". It is an oleaginous plant whose seeds have been used mainly in biodiesel production. Plant seed oil can be extracted mechanically or using solvents, generating castor bean cake and castor bean meal as by-products, respectively. Accidental ingestion of these by-products can cause poisoning in animals and humans, characterized by digestive signs resulting from the presence of a toxalbumin called ricin. Seed toxicity varies among animal species; in horses, the lethal dose of seeds is 0.1 g/kg of body weight. The literature presents plenty of studies addressing poisoning by R. communis in different animal species and in humans; however, reports are scarce and little information is available on the pathological aspects of poisoning regarding equines. Therefore, the present study aimed to describe the epidemiological, clinical and pathological aspects observed in an outbreak of accidental poisoning with castor bean cake in horses. The equines were supplemented with palm kernel (Elaeis guianeesis) cake; however, in the purchase of a new batch, there was an error in the order, and castor bean cake was requested instead. Four horses that received castor bean cake presented clinical signs indicative of colic, which started about 21 hours after administration. Three of these horses died, with clinical evolution from 2 to 4.5 hours; the other animal was treated with intravenous fluid and antibiotic therapy and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and recovered after five days. In the necropsy of two of these horses, the main lesions were found in the small intestine, where mucosae with pronounced redness and covered with a thin layer of yellow fibrous material were observed. In the intestinal lumen, there was a large amount of bloody liquid. The stomach was full, and dark lumps similar to crushed castor bean seeds were observed in the contents. The adrenal glands of both horses presented congestion and hemorrhage in the cortex. In microscopy, the main lesion was an acute, diffuse and accentuated fibrin-necrotic enteropathy affecting the jejunum. The diagnosis of castor bean cake poisoning was based on the circumstantial evidence of by-product consumption supported by clinical and pathological aspects. The results indicate that castor bean cake commercially available as fertilizer is extremely toxic when ingested, and there is a need for appropriate detoxification or labeling informing of its toxicity.(AU)

Ricinus communis é um arbusto da família Euphorbiaceae conhecido popularmente como "mamona" ou "carrapateira". A planta é considerada oleaginosa e suas sementes têm sido utilizadas, principalmente, na produção de biodiesel. A extração do óleo pode ser mecânica ou com solventes, gerando, como subprodutos, a torta de mamona e a farinha de mamona, respectivamente. A ingestão acidental desses subprodutos pode causar intoxicação em animais e humanos, caracterizada por sinais digestivos devido a toxalbumina ricina. A toxidez das sementes varia entre as espécies animais, em equinos a dose letal de sementes é de 0,1g/kg de peso vivo. Há vasta literatura sobre a intoxicação por R. communis em diferentes espécies animais e humanos. Em relação aos equinos os relatos são escassos e com poucas informações sobre os aspectos patológicos da intoxicação. Assim, os objetivos do presente estudo foram descrever os aspectos epidemiológicos, clínicos e patológicos observados em um surto de intoxicação acidental por torta de mamona em equinos. Os equinos eram suplementados com torta de dendê (Elaeis guianeesis), no entanto, na compra de uma nova partida, houve um erro no pedido sendo solicitada torta de mamona. Os quatro equinos que receberam a torta de mamona apresentaram sinais clínicos indicativos de cólica, que iniciaram cerca de 21 horas após administração. Três destes morreram, com evolução clínica 2 a 4,5 horas, o outro animal foi tratado com fluidoterapia intravenosa, antibioticoterapia e anti-inflamatório não esteroidal, recuperando-se em 5 dias. Na necropsia de dois destes equinos, as principais lesões foram encontradas no intestino delgado, sendo observadas mucosas com avermelhamento acentuado e recobertas por fina camada de material amarelado fibrinoso. No lúmen intestinal, havia grande quantidade de líquido sanguinolento. O estômago estava repleto de grumos escuros semelhantes às sementes trituradas da mamona em meio ao conteúdo. As adrenais de ambos equinos apresentavam congestão e hemorragias corticais. Na microscopia, a principal lesão foi uma enteropatia fibrino-necrótica, aguda, difusa e acentuada, afetando com maior intensidade o jejuno. O diagnóstico de intoxicação por torta de mamona foi baseado na evidência circunstancial de consumo do subproduto, sendo corroborado pelos aspectos clínicos e patológicos. Os resultados indicam que a torta de mamona vendida para fertilização do solo é extremamente tóxica quando ingerida, havendo a necessidade de detoxicação ou rotulagem adequada informando sobre a sua toxicidade.(AU)

Adhesion and invasion of Clostridium perfringens type A into epithelial cells

ABSTRACT Clostridium perfringens is the causative agent for necrotic enteritis. It secretes the major virulence factors, and - and NetB-toxins that are responsible for intestinal lesions. The TpeL toxin affects cell morphology by producing myonecrosis, but its role in the pathogenesis of necrotic enteritis is unclear. In this study, the presence of netB and tpeL genes in C. perfringens type A strains isolated from chickens with necrotic enteritis, their cytotoxic effects and role in adhesion and invasion of epithelial cells were evaluated. Six (27.3%) of the 22 C. perfringens type A strains were harboring the tpeL gene and produced morphological alterations in Vero cells after 6 h of incubation. Strains tpeL (-) induced strong cell rounding after 6 h of incubation and produced cell enlargement. None of the 22 strains harbored netB gene. All the six tpeL (+) gene strains were able to adhere to HEp-2 cells; however, only four of them (66.6%) were invasive. Thus, these results suggest that the presence of tpeL gene or TpeL toxin might be required for the adherence of bacteria to HEp-2 cells; however, it could not have any role in the invasion process.(AU)

Epizootic amebiasis outbreak in wild black howler monkeys (Alouatta caraya) in a wildlife facility during captivity prior to translocation - Recommendations to wildlife management programs / Surto epizoótico de amebíase em Bugio preto (Alouatta caraya) provenientes de vida livre durante o cativeiro prévio a translocação - Recomendações a programas de manejo de fauna

The capture and quarantine of non-human primates could be necessary in some circumstances including those required under environmental permit. Mortality is undesirable for wildlife management programs and could be related to opportunistic pathogens, for example, deaths due to intestinal protozoa infection outbreaks as described here. Parasitological, necroscopic, microbiological, and molecular tests were used in the diagnosis of severe necrotic enteritis leading to death of three female and two male black howler monkeys (Alouatta caraya) captured and held in quarantine prior to translocation. Parasitological tests showed the presence of cysts of Entamoeba histolytica/dispar (5/5), Entamoeba coli (5/5) and Giardia duodenalis (1/5). Necroscopic assessment revealed areas of severe multifocal necrosis in the intestinal mucosa and submucosa. Histopathological examination revealed the presence of structures morphologically compatible to Entamoeba spp. in all individuals examined. Furthermore, G. duodenalis (1/5) was demonstrated by the nested PCR technique. During temporary captivity of non-human primates in management programs, proper handling protocols, including fast or immediate destination, are suggested in order to mitigate the negative effects of stress and decrease the risk of infections.(AU)

Óbitos por infecções causadas por protozoários intestinais são indesejáveis para programas de manejo de fauna, exigidos no âmbito do licenciamento ambiental e que demandam a captura e quarentena de primatas não humanos. Exames coproparasitológicos, necroscópicos, microbiológicos e moleculares foram utilizados para a confirmação do diagnóstico de uma severa enterite necrótica que levou a óbito três fêmeas e dois machos de Alouatta (A.) caraya capturados e mantidos em quarentena prévia à translocação. Exames coproparasitológicos revelaram a presença de cistos de Entamoeba (E.) histolytica/dispar (5/5), Entamoeba (E.) coli (5/5) e Giardia (G.) duodenalis (1/5). A avaliação necroscópica revelou áreas de necrose multifocal severa na mucosa e submucosa intestinal. A análise microscópica revelou a presença de estruturas morfologicamente compatíveis com trofozoítos do gênero Entamoeba spp. em todos os indivíduos examinados. Além disso, G. duodenalis (1/5) foi demonstrada pela técnica de Nested PCR. Sugere-se que quando for necessário o cativeiro temporário de primatas, deverão ser adotados protocolos de manejo adequados buscando a destinação imediata dos animais, de moto a mitigar os efeitos negativos do estresse e reduzir o risco da ocorrência de infecções.(AU)

Epizootic amebiasis outbreak in wild black howler monkeys (Alouatta caraya) in a wildlife facility during captivity prior to translocation - Recommendations to wildlife management programs / Surto epizoótico de amebíase em Bugio preto (Alouatta caraya) provenientes de vida livre durante o cativeiro prévio a translocação - Recomendações a programas de manejo de fauna

The capture and quarantine of non-human primates could be necessary in some circumstances including those required under environmental permit. Mortality is undesirable for wildlife management programs and could be related to opportunistic pathogens, for example, deaths due to intestinal protozoa infection outbreaks as described here. Parasitological, necroscopic, microbiological, and molecular tests were used in the diagnosis of severe necrotic enteritis leading to death of three female and two male black howler monkeys (Alouatta caraya) captured and held in quarantine prior to translocation. Parasitological tests showed the presence of cysts of Entamoeba histolytica/dispar (5/5), Entamoeba coli (5/5) and Giardia duodenalis (1/5). Necroscopic assessment revealed areas of severe multifocal necrosis in the intestinal mucosa and submucosa. Histopathological examination revealed the presence of structures morphologically compatible to Entamoeba spp. in all individuals examined. Furthermore, G. duodenalis (1/5) was demonstrated by the nested PCR technique. During temporary captivity of non-human primates in management programs, proper handling protocols, including fast or immediate destination, are suggested in order to mitigate the negative effects of stress and decrease the risk of infections.(AU)

Óbitos por infecções causadas por protozoários intestinais são indesejáveis para programas de manejo de fauna, exigidos no âmbito do licenciamento ambiental e que demandam a captura e quarentena de primatas não humanos. Exames coproparasitológicos, necroscópicos, microbiológicos e moleculares foram utilizados para a confirmação do diagnóstico de uma severa enterite necrótica que levou a óbito três fêmeas e dois machos de Alouatta (A.) caraya capturados e mantidos em quarentena prévia à translocação. Exames coproparasitológicos revelaram a presença de cistos de Entamoeba (E.) histolytica/dispar (5/5), Entamoeba (E.) coli (5/5) e Giardia (G.) duodenalis (1/5). A avaliação necroscópica revelou áreas de necrose multifocal severa na mucosa e submucosa intestinal. A análise microscópica revelou a presença de estruturas morfologicamente compatíveis com trofozoítos do gênero Entamoeba spp. em todos os indivíduos examinados. Além disso, G. duodenalis (1/5) foi demonstrada pela técnica de Nested PCR. Sugere-se que quando for necessário o cativeiro temporário de primatas, deverão ser adotados protocolos de manejo adequados buscando a destinação imediata dos animais, de moto a mitigar os efeitos negativos do estresse e reduzir o risco da ocorrência de infecções.(AU)

ALTERNATIVA AOS ANTIMICROBIANOS MELHORADORES DE DESEMPENHO EM DIETAS DE FRANGOS DE CORTE DESAFIADOS COM Eimeria spp. e Clostridium perfringens

A enterite necrótica (EN) é uma doença de distribuição mundial, que acarreta prejuízos econômicos na escala de 6 bilhões de dólares anualmente. O agente etiológico é o Clostridium perfringens (C. perfringens), habitante da microbiota nativa das aves, sendo necessária a presença de fatores predisponentes para a evolução da doença. Como principal fator predisponente está a infecção por Eimeria spp., doença endêmica e que causa grandes prejuízos na avicultura. Após a retirada de antibióticos melhoradores de desempenho (AMD) da dieta dos animais de produção, alternativas estão sendo desenvolvidas, destacando as alternativas nutricionais. Diante disso, o objetivo do presente estudo é avaliar a adição de um produto composto pela associação de butirato de sódio, levedura hidrolisada e proteinato de zinco (ViligenTM), em dietas de frangos de corte desafiados por Eimeria spp. e C. perfringens, sobre o desempenho, parâmetros sanguíneos, permeabilidade, morfologia e lesões intestinais, e rendimento de carcaça. Foram utilizados 1150 pintos machos de 1 dia (Cobb 500, Cobb Vantress Ltd., Cascavel, PR, BR) com um peso inicial médio de 43,97 ± 0,65 g, que foram alocados em 50 boxes e divididos em 5 tratamentos, compostos por 10 repetições e 23 animais por unidade experimental. Todos os animais foram desafiados por Eimeria spp. aos 7 dias de idade, e por C. perfringens aos 17, 18 e 19 dias, para indução de EN subclínica. Os animais foram distribuídos em 5 tratamentos sendo eles: Controle negativo (CN) Dieta controle, sem adição de AMD; Controle positivo (CP) Dieta controle com adição de 0,12 g ton-1 de Enramicina (8%); (500) CN, com adição de 500 g ton-1 de ViligenTM; (1,000) CN, com adição de 1,000 g ton-1 de ViligenTM; (1,500) CN, com adição de 1500 g ton-1 de ViligenTM. As aves dos tratamentos que receberam o aditivo apresentaram parâmetros de desempenho, sanguíneos, permeabilidade intestinal e rendimento de carcaça semelhantes aos animais que receberam o AMD. A adição de 1.500 g ton-1 de ViligenTM reduziu as lesões intestinais aos 28 dias (P < 0,05), e o nível de 500 g ton-1 de ViligenTM melhorou a morfologia intestinal dos animais (P < 0,05) aos 21 dias. Sendo assim, conclui-se que a adição de ViligenTM à dieta de frangos de corte desafiados por um modelo experimental de EN subclínica proporcionou desempenho semelhante ao obtido pela adição de Enramicina, além de benefícios à saúde intestinal, podendo ser considerado como alternativa na redução dos efeitos da EN subclínica em frangos de corte

Necrotic enteritis (NE) is a worldwide disease that causes economic losses on the scale of $6 billion annually. The etiological agent is Clostridium perfringens (C. perfringens), which inhabits the native microbiota of birds, requiring the presence of predisposing factors for the evolution of the disease. The main predisposing factor is infection by Eimeria spp., an endemic disease that causes great damage to poultry. After the withdrawal of antimicrobial growth promoters (AGP) from the diet of farm animals, alternatives are being developed, highlighting nutritional alternatives. Therefore, the aim of this study is to evaluate the addition of a product composed by the association of sodium butyrate, hydrolyzed yeast and zinc proteinate (ViligenTM), in broiler diets challenged by Eimeria spp. and C. perfringens, on performance, blood parameters, permeability, intestinal morphology and lesions, and carcass yield. 1150 day-old male chicks were used (Cobb 500, Cobb Vantress Ltd., Cascavel, PR, BR) with an average initial weight of 43.97 ± 0.65 g, which were placed in 50 pens and divided into 5 treatments, composed by 10 replicates and 23 broilers per experimental unit. All animals were challenged by Eimeria spp. at 7 days of age, and by C. perfringens at 17, 18 and 19 days, for induction of subclinical EN. The animals were distributed in 5 treatments, namely: Negative Control (CN) Control diet, without addition of AGPD; Positive Control (PC) Control diet with addition of 0.12 g ton-1 of Enramycin (8%); (500) CN, with addition of 500 g ton-1 of ViligenTM; (1.000) CN, with the addition of 1,000 g ton-1 of ViligenTM; (1,500) CN, with the addition of 1500 g ton-1 of ViligenTM. The birds of the treatments that received the additive had performance, blood, intestinal permeability and carcass yield parameters similar to the animals that received the AGP. The addition of 1,500 g ton-1 of ViligenTM reduced intestinal lesions at 28 days (P < 0.05), and the level of 500 g ton-1 of ViligenTM improved the intestinal morphology of the animals (P < 0.05) at 21 days. Therefore, it is concluded that the addition of ViligenTM to the diet of broilers challenged by an experimental model of subclinical NE provided performance similar to that obtained by adding Enramycin, in addition to benefits to intestinal health, and can be considered as an alternative in reducing the effects of subclinical EN in broiler chickens.

studo das alterações histopatológicas e ultraestruturais do intestino delgado de frangos infectados experimentalmente com Eimeria spp. e Clostridium perfringens para desenvolvimento de enterite necrótica

A enterite necrótica é uma enfermidade causada por Clostridium perfringens (C. perfringens). Infecções por Eimeria spp. pode agravar o quadro clínico desta doença, pois provocam lesões na mucosa intestinal proporcionando um ambiente mais favorável para o crescimento de C. perfringens. Demonstrar as alterações no intestino delgado provocadas por C. perfringens, Eimeria spp. ou a associação desses patógenos para a reprodução experimental da enterite necrótica em frangos foram os objetivos deste estudo. Um total de 48 animais foram utilizados, sendo divididos em 4 grupos com 12 animais em cada: Grupo Controle (T1); Grupo infectado por Eimeria spp.(T2); Grupo infectado por C. perfringens (T3) e Grupo infectado com Eimeria spp. e C. perfringens (T4). A infecção com Eimeria spp. foi realizada aos 14 dias de idade para os grupos T2 e T4 e com C. perfringens aos 19 dias de idade para os grupos T3 e T4. Foram realizadas coletas semanais de fragmentos do terço médio de duodeno, jejuno e íleo aos 22, 28, 35 e 42 dias de vida para análises histopatológicas e de microscopia eletrônica de varredura. Os grupos infectados apresentaram alterações nas vilosidades, principalmente em seus ápices. A presença de muco, danos ao epitélio de revestimento, acúmulo de detritos celulares, fusão de vilosidades e presença de edema foram os achados comuns aos grupos infectados. O grupo T4, com coinfecção de patógenos, apresentou alterações mais severas, precoces e duradouras quando comparadas a infecções com apenas Eimeria spp. ou C. perfringens.

Necrotic enteritis is a disease caused by Clostridium perfringens (C. perfringens). Infections by Eimeria spp. can worsen the clinical picture of this disease, as they cause lesions in the intestinal mucosa providing a more favorable environment for the growth of C. perfringens. Demonstrate the changes in the small intestine caused by C. perfringens, Eimeria spp. or the association of these pathogens for the experimental reproduction of necrotic enteritis in chickens were the objectives of this study. A total of 48 animals were used, being divided into 4 groups with 12 animals in each: Control Group (T1); Group infected with Eimeria spp. (T2); Group infected with C. perfringens (T3) and Group infected with Eimeria spp. and C. perfringens (T4). Infection with Eimeria spp. was performed at 14 days of age for groups T2 and T4 and with C. perfringens at 19 days of age for groups T3 and T4. Weekly collections of fragments of the middle third of the duodenum, jejunum and ileum were performed at 22, 28, 35 and 42 days of life for histopathological and scanning electron microscopy analysis. The infected groups showed changes in the villi, mainly in their apexes. The presence of mucus, damage to the lining epithelium, accumulation of cellular debris, fusion of villi and the presence of edema were the common findings of the infected groups. The T4 group, with co-infection of pathogens, showed more severe, early and lasting changes when compared to infections with only Eimeria spp. or C. perfringens.

Baccharis coridifolia Poisoning in Water Buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) in the North of the Province of Corrientes, Argentina

Eight of 57 water buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) died after grazing 30 days on 38-hectare pasture contaminated with Baccharis coridifolia in the north of the Province of Corrientes (northeastern Argentina). Most were found dead, others showed depression, anorexia, diarrhea, incoordination of movements and collision against fences. The conditions that caused the poisoning were overgrazing, poor pasture and lack of aversion to the consumption of Baccharis coridifolia. Gross findings included necrotic rumenitis, necrotic-hemorrhagic abomasitis, necrotic-hemorrhagic enteritis and marked brain edema. The histopathological findings were necrosis of the epithelium of the mucosa of the forestomachs, necrosis and hemorrhage in mucosa of the small intestine, necrosis of lymphocytes in lymph follicles in spleen and thymus and vasogenic brain edema. The lesions, except for brain edema, are typically reported in cattle intoxicated by Baccharis coridifolia. Vasogenic brain edema is not described in any animal species naturally or experimentally intoxicated with this plant; this change may be due to direct toxic effect of Baccharis coridifolia that cause vascular injury or was a secondary injury.

Baccharis coridifolia Poisoning in Water Buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) in the North of the Province of Corrientes, Argentina

Eight of 57 water buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) died after grazing 30 days on 38-hectare pasture contaminated with Baccharis coridifolia in the north of the Province of Corrientes (northeastern Argentina). Most were found dead, others showed depression, anorexia, diarrhea, incoordination of movements and collision against fences. The conditions that caused the poisoning were overgrazing, poor pasture and lack of aversion to the consumption of Baccharis coridifolia. Gross findings included necrotic rumenitis, necrotic-hemorrhagic abomasitis, necrotic-hemorrhagic enteritis and marked brain edema. The histopathological findings were necrosis of the epithelium of the mucosa of the forestomachs, necrosis and hemorrhage in mucosa of the small intestine, necrosis of lymphocytes in lymph follicles in spleen and thymus and vasogenic brain edema. The lesions, except for brain edema, are typically reported in cattle intoxicated by Baccharis coridifolia. Vasogenic brain edema is not described in any animal species naturally or experimentally intoxicated with this plant; this change may be due to direct toxic effect of Baccharis coridifolia that cause vascular injury or was a secondary injury.(AU)

Mortalidade de bovinos de corte em diferentes sistemas de confinamento

Tendo em vista o aumento da demanda em diagnóstico de enfermidades em bovinos mantidos em diferentes sistemas de confinamento na área de influência do Laboratório Regional de Diagnóstico, da Faculdade de Veterinária, da Universidade Federal de Pelotas (LRD/UFPel) esta tese buscou determinar as principais causas de morte de bovinos confinados nesta região, estabelecendo sua prevalência e formas de controle. Para isso foi realizado um estudo retrospectivo das enfermidades diagnosticadas em confinamentos de bovinos de corte na área de influência do LRD/UFPel. Foi realizada pesquisa nos protocolos de necropsia do laboratório de janeiro de 2000 a dezembro de 2017. Foi realizado, ainda, um estudo prospectivo, entre janeiro de 2018 e agosto de 2019 em confinamentos de bovinos de corte na região. Práticas de manejo sanitário, alimentar e categoria de bovinos utilizadas em cada um deles foram verificadas. Este estudo abrangeu confinamentos dedicados à exportação de bovinos vivos e terminação para abate. Com base nos resultados pode-se observar que acidose ruminal, timpanismo, pneumonia e tristeza parasitária bovina (TPB) foram as principais causas de morte em bovinos confinados na região estudada. A mortalidade foi significativamente maior em confinamentos para terminação do que para exportação. A adaptação dos bovinos a dieta rica em carboidratos altamente fermentáveis oferecida nos confinamentos, de modo geral, foi eficiente para evitar mortes por acidose e timpanismo. Em relação à TPB, a quimioprofilaxia mostrou-se eficiente para o controle de surtos da doença em confinamentos. Nesta tese foi incluída, ainda, uma breve revisão de literatura sobre as principais causas de morte em bovinos de corte mantidos em diferentes sistemas de confinamento. Descreveram-se as perdas econômicas decorrentes destas enfermidades e a forma de controle das mesmas. Doenças associadas aos sistemas respiratório e digestivo foram as mais frequentemente observadas. Além da TPB, descrita na região Sul do Rio Grande do Sul, foram descritos surtos pontuais de botulismo e enterite necrótica que mesmo eventuais causaram prejuízos econômicos consideráveis quando ocorreram. Concluiu-se que a assistência técnica e um bom manejo sanitário e alimentar podem fazer a diferença no melhor desempenho e produtividade em criações de bovinos em confinamento, independente de sua finalidade.

In view of the increased demand for diagnosis of diseases in cattle kept in different feedlot systems in the area of influence of the Laboratório Regional de Diagnóstico, da Faculdade de Veterinária, da Universidade Federal de Pelotas (LRD/UFPel) this thesis sought to determine the main causes of death of feedlot cattle in this region, establishing its prevalence and forms of control. For this, a retrospective study of diseases diagnosed in feedlots in the LRD / UFPel area of influence was carried out. This study was based on a survey of laboratory necropsy protocols from January 2000 to December 2017. A prospective study between January 2018 and August 2019, following up the beef cattle feedlot in the region also was conducted. Practices of sanitary management, feeding management and category of cattle used in each one of them were verified. This study included live cattle exports feedlots and finishing feedlots. Based on the results it can be observed that ruminal acidosis, bloat, pneumonia and cattle tick fever were the main causes of death in beef cattle feedlot in the studied region. Mortality was significantly higher in feedlots to finishing than feedlots to export live cattle. Adaptation of cattle to the highly fermentable carbohydrate-rich diet offered in feedlots was generally effective in preventing deaths from acidosis and bloating. The chemoprophylaxis was efficient to control outbreaks of cattle tick fevet in feedlots. This thesis also included a brief literature review on the main causes of death that occur in beef cattle kept in different feedlot forms. The economic losses resulting from these diseases and their control were also described. Diseases associated with the respiratory and digestive systems were the most frequently observed. In addition to cattle tick fevet, described in the Southern region of Rio Grande do Sul, it has been described occasional outbreaks of botulism and necrotic enteritis that caused considerable economic damage when they occured. It was concluded that technical assistance and good sanitary and food management can make the difference in better performance and productivity in feedlot cattle, regardless of its purpose.

INTESTINAL HEALTH ASSESSMENT OF BROILERS SUPPLEMENTED WITH BACILLUS SUBTILIS DSM 29784

A saúde intestinal dos frangos de corte é um fator importante que influencia a produtividade na avicultura de forma que, uma mucosa intestinal prejudicada tem baixa digestão e absorção de nutrientes e isso afetará as funções fisiológicas do hospedeiro, resultando em um sistema imunológico enfraquecido, mais susceptível a doenças e, consequentemente, causará perda econômica e de bem-estar animal. Desde que os antibióticos foram banidos na produção animal de vários países, métodos alternativos foram desenvolvidos para melhorar a performance dos frangos, como por exemplo os probióticos, que estimulam o crescimento de bactérias produtoras de ácido-lático consideradas benéficas para o intestino, aumentam o ganho de peso, promovem o equilíbrio da microbiota, melhoram a morfologia intestinal e modulam a imunidade intestinal. Neste trabalho foi realizado um estudo sobre probióticos e um experimento específico sobre os efeitos do Bacillus subtilis DSM 29784. O experimento foi realizado com frangos de corte desafiados com C. perfringens e Eimeria spp. ou não desafiados, e suplementados com B. subtilis DSM 29784, enramicina ou não-suplementados. Aos 7, 14 e 21 dias de idade foi avaliada a performance das aves, a saúde intestinal com o método histológico I See Inside (ISI) e a reposta imunológica com quantificação celular de linfócitos T (CD4+, CD8+ e macrófagos). Não foi encontrado diferença estatística para resultado de performance em aves suplementadas com o probiótico ou com a Enramicina, apenas entre desafiados e não desafiados. O resultado do ISI demonstrou maior escore de índice histológico em aves desafias, quando comparadas com não desafiadas em todos os períodos. O grupo desafiado e suplementado com B. subtilis DSM 29784 apresentou menor escore total ISI aos 7 e 14 dias quando comparado com o desafiado e não-suplementado. Aos 21 dias, o grupo não-desafiado e suplementado com Enramicina teve o menor escore total ISI dentre todos os grupos. Aves suplementadas com o probiótico tiveram um menor escore de células CD4+ e CD8+ aos 7 dias, um pico aos 14 e posterior queda aos 21 dias. A contagem de macrófagos foi elevada em aves não desafiadas aos 7 dias de idade. Os resultados deste experimento demonstraram que o probiótico teve um impacto positivo na saúde intestinal de frangos de corte desafiados.

Chicken intestinal health is an important factor that concerns aviculture productivity somehow that disruptive mucosa has poorer nutrient digestion and absorption that will physiologically affect the host resulting in weaker immunological system, more susceptible to diseases and, consequently will cause economical losses and failed animal well-being. Since antibiotic ban in animal production of many countries, alternative methods have been developed to enhance broiler chicken performance, for instance probiotics stimulate the grown of lactic-acid producer bacterias considered beneficial for intestinal health, improving body weight gain, promoting microbiota balance, enhancing intestinal morphology and modulating intestinal immunity. In this dissertation it was accomplished a study about probiotics and then it was performed a trial specifically on Bacillus subtilis DSM 29784. In the experiment it was evaluated broiler chickens challenged or not with C. perfringens e Eimeria spp. and supplemented with B. subtilis DSM 29784 or Enramycin or not supplemented at all. At 7, 14 and 21 days of age it was evaluated birds performance, intestinal health with the histological method I See Inside (ISI) and immunological response through lymphocyte T cell (CD4+, CD8+ and macrophage) quantification. No statistical difference was found on performance in birds supplemented or not with probiotic or Enramycin, except among challenged or non-challenged birds. ISI results demonstrated higher total score in challenged birds when compared to non-challenge ones at all ages. The challenged group supplemented with B. subtilis DSM 29784 presented lower ISI total score at 7 and 14 days, when compared to challenged and non-supplemented group. At 21 days, the non-challenged and supplemented with Enramycin group had the lowest ISI total score among all groups. Birds supplemented with the probiotic had a lower CD4+ and CD8+ cell counts at 7 days, followed by a peak at 14 days and posterior decrease at 21 days. Macrophage cell counts was higher in non-challenged birds at 7 days of age. Results demonstrated that B. subtilis DSM 29784 had a positive impact over intestinal health of challenged birds.

CARACTERIZAÇÃO ANATOMOPATOLÓGICA E PARASITOLÓGICA DA COCCIDIOSE EM FRANGOS DE CORTE E SUA POSSÍVEL ASSOCIAÇÃO COM INFECÇÕES BACTERIANAS SECUNDÁRIAS

A coccidiose é uma das principais doenças que acometem as aves e causa grandes prejuízos à avicultura. Há sete espécies de Eimeria que acometem os frangos de corte, ocorrendo infecções mistas e por isso, torna-se fundamental realizar o diagnóstico de cada espécie corretamente. A coccidiose ainda pode predispor a infecções bacterianas como a enterite necrótica (EN), a salmonelose e a colibacilose. O objetivo deste estudo foi avaliar a ocorrência de coccidiose associada a infecções bacterianas em lotes de frangos de corte. O estudo foi dividido em duas fases, sendo que na primeira fase, realizou-se um estudo transversal em 28 lotes, avaliando-se 10 aves por lote em dois momentos, sendo cinco aves entre os 21 e 28 dias de idade (coleta 1) e outras cinco entre os 35 e 42 dias (coleta 2), totalizando 280 amostras. Foi realizada análise macroscópica com atribuição de escore de lesão para coccidiose, avaliação histopatológica e, avaliação morfométrica e morfológica dos oocistos do conteúdo intestinal das aves e cama. Foi realizada pesquisa de Salmonella sp. através de suabe de arrasto da cama e de suabe de fezes. Além disso, órgãos com lesões macroscópicas foram submetidos a cultivo bacteriológico não seletivo. Na coleta 1, 82,14% dos lotes foram positivos para coccidiose e na coleta 2, 100% desses. A combinação mais encontrada foi E. acervulina, E. maxima e E. tenella. O exame histopatológico apresentou diferença significativa e revelou aumento de 28,5% no número de aves que apresentavam lesões em comparação ao escore de lesão macroscópico. Observou-se ainda que o grau 1 foi o mais prevalente no escore de lesão macroscópica e histopatologia em ambas as coletas, porém, na coleta 2, houve aumento significativo de grau 3 de E. tenella. Nenhum lote foi positivo para Salmonella e as lesões extra intestinais não demonstraram relação com a coccidiose. Na segunda fase do estudo, foram avaliados 32 lotes oriundos de um abatedouro, cada um com oito aves, totalizando 256 amostras. Foi realizada avaliação macroscópica com atribuição de escore de lesão para coccidiose e EN, seguido de avaliação histopatológica, cultivo anaeróbico para C. perfringens, além de pesquisa do gene NetB de amostras bacteriológicas e, PCR de conteúdo intestinal para detecção de Eimeria sp. Foram encontrados 93,75% (30/32) dos lotes positivos para coccidiose. As lesões macroscópicas mais comuns foram compatíveis com E. acervulina grau 1 27,03% (70/256), repetindo-se na avaliação histopatológica no duodeno com grau 1 38,2% (98/256). Na PCR foram encontrados 34,37% (11/32) dos lotes positivos, sendo 21,87% (7/32) para E. tenella, 18,75% (6/32) E. maxima e 3,12% (1/32) E. acervulina. As lesões sugestivas de EN foram predominantemente grau 2 23,05% (59/256), porém, na histopatologia foi observado apenas hemorragia em mucosa e submucosa, além de Eimeria sp. Apenas 8,2% (21/256) das amostras apresentaram crescimento de C. perfringens Tipo A, sendo todas negativas para o gene NetB. As lesões observadas não caracterizaram EN, fundamentada pela histopatologia e ausência do gene NetB, podendo ser ocasionadas pela infecção por Eimeria. O diagnóstico da coccidiose deve ser realizado utilizando associação de métodos diagnósticos como o escore de lesão, histopatologia e avaliação parasitológica para a obtenção de resultados mais precisos. A coccidiose pode gerar lesões macroscópicas atípicas, por isso o escore de lesão deve ser utilizado associado a outro método para diagnóstico. A negatividade para Salmonella em todos os lotes pode ser devido ao alto nível de biosseguridade e controle sanitário das granjas.

Coccidiosis is one of the main diseases that affect poultry and causes a lot of losses to aviculture. Seven species of Eimeria affect broiler chickens, sometimes occurring mixed infections, which is why it is essential to do the diagnosis of each species correctly. Coccidiosis can also predispose bacterial infections such as necrotic enteritis (NE), salmonellosis and colibacillosis. The aim of this phase was to evaluate the occurrence of coccidiosis associated with bacterial infections in broiler flocks. The study was divided into two phases, with the first phase, a cross-sectional study was carried out on 28 flocks, evaluating 10 broilers per flock in two moments, with five broilers between 21 and 28 days of age (collection 1) and five broilers between 35 and 42 days (collection 2), totaling 280 samples. A macroscopic, histopathological score of lesions due to coccidiosis, morphometric and morphological evaluation of the oocysts in the intestinal content of broilers and of litter were performed. Research on Salmonella sp. through litter swab and intestinal contents. In addition, organs with macroscopic lesions were subjected to non-selective bacteriological culture. In collection 1, 82.14% of the flocks were positive for coccidiosis and in collection 2, 100% of these. The most frequently found combination was E. acervulina, E. maxima and E. tenella. The histopathological examination showed a significant difference and revealed an increase of 28.5% of broilers that presented injuries in comparison to the macroscopic lesion score. It was observed that grade 1 was the most prevalent in the score of injury and histopathology in both collections, however, in collection 2, there was a significant increase in grade of E. tenella. Salmonella were not found in the flocks and the extra-intestinal lesions showed no relation with coccidiosis. In the second study, 32 flocks were evaluated, each with eight broilers, totaling 256 samples. A macroscopic lesion score was performed for coccidiosis and EN, followed by histopathological evaluation, anaerobic culture for C. perfringens, in addition to research of the NetB gene and PCR of feces for Eimeria. In this study, were found 93.75% (30/32) of the positive lots for coccidiosis. The most common macroscopic lesions were by E. acervulina grade 1, 27.03% (70/256), repeating in histopathological findings in the duodenum with grade 1, 38.2% (98/256). In the PCR, 34.37% (11/32) of the positive lots were found, being 21.87% (7/32) for E. tenella, 18.75% (6/32) E. maxima and 3.12% (1/32) E. acervulina. The lesions suggestive of EN were predominantly grade 2 23.05% (59/256), but in histopathology only hemorrhage was observed in the mucosa and submucosa, in addition to Eimeria sp. Only 8.2% (21/256) of the samples demonstrated growth of C. perfringens Type A, all of which were negative for the NetB gene. The lesions observed did not characterize EN, based on histopathology and the absence of the NetB gene, which could be caused by Eimeria infection. The diagnosis of coccidiosis should be performed using an association of diagnostic methods such as macroscopic score, histopathology, and parasitological evaluation to obtain more accurate results. Coccidiosis can present atypical macroscopic lesions, so this score should be used in conjunction with another method for diagnosis. The negativity for Salmonella in all lots may be due to the high level of biosecurity and sanitary control of farms.

Clostridium perfringens e a enterite necrótica em frangos: principais fatores de virulência, genéticos e moleculares

Clostridium perfringens é o causador da enterite necrótica que afeta a produção de frangos de corte no mundo todo. Essa bactéria produz diversas toxinas e causa lesões no intestino, tendo como consequências a elevada mortalidade e perdas econômicas devido à baixa produtividade. Nesta revisão são apresentados os principais fatores de virulência, a susceptibilidade aos antimicrobianos e a diversidade genética de C. perfringens isolados de frangos com enterite necrótica.(AU)

Clostridium perfringens cause necrotic enteritis affecting the poultry production worldwide. This bacterium produces various toxins and causes lesions in the intestine producing high mortality and economic loss due to the low productivity.In this review, the major virulence factors, antimicrobial susceptibility and genetic diversity of C. perfringens from chickens with necrotic enteritis are showed.(AU)