Preliminary evaluation of the impact of periodontal treatment on markers of glycaemic control in dogs with diabetes mellitus: A prospective, clinical case series.

BACKGROUND: Periodontal disease (PD) can adversely affect glycaemic control in humans. However, it is unknown if a similar association exists in dogs. METHODS: Ten client-owned dogs with poorly regulated diabetes mellitus (DM) and PD were prospectively enrolled. A complete blood count, serum biochemistry, urinalysis and measurement of C-reactive protein, interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumour necrosis factor-α, haemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) and fructosamine concentrations were performed before periodontal treatment (PT) and monthly thereafter for 3 months. A periodontal disease severity score (PDSS) was determined during PT. The effects of time post-PT and PDSS on markers of inflammation and glycaemic control were determined by generalised estimating equation analysis. RESULTS: HbA1c (mean; 95% confidence interval [CI]) decreased 3 months post-PT (32.1 mmol/mol; 21.1-43.1 mmol/mol vs. 44.3 mmol/mol; 36.4-52.0; p = 0.003). PDSS at enrolment was significantly (p = 0.031) positively associated with HbA1c concentration. Due to a significant (p < 0.001) interaction between PDSS and time post-PT in the analysis of fructosamine, dogs with low (1-3) PDSS and high (7-9) PDSS were analysed separately. Fructosamine (mean; 95% CI) significantly decreased 1 month post-PT (570 µmol/L; 457-684 µmol/L vs. 624 µmol/L; 499-748; p = 0.001) in the high PDSS group but not in the low PDSS group. Fructosamine concentration upon enrolment and PDSS were correlated (r = 0.73, p = 0.017). IL-6 concentration significantly decreased 3 months post-PT (9.9 pg/mL; 8.5-11.3 pg/mL vs. 11.2 pg/mL; 9.7-12.7; p = 0.002). LIMITATIONS: Limitations of the study included the small number of dogs, the lack of a control group and the inability to assess PDSS during follow-ups. CONCLUSIONS: These findings support a potential detrimental interaction between PD and DM. The apparent beneficial effect of PT on markers of glycaemic control was most conspicuous in dogs with more severe PD.

Copper-associated chronic hepatitis in Cavalier King Charles spaniels.

BACKGROUND: Copper-associated chronic hepatitis (CuCH) is poorly characterised in Cavalier King Charles spaniels (CKCS). METHODS: Hepatic copper accumulation was qualitatively and quantitatively assessed, and blood samples were used for genetic testing to screen for known CuCH-associated genetic variants. RESULTS: The study included 13 CKCS with CuCH and eight unaffected controls. Increased transaminase activities, elevated biliary enzyme concentrations and portal hypertension were documented in 100%, 73% and 38% of dogs with CuCH, respectively. Five dogs had three or more abnormalities in measures of liver function. All 11 dogs with CuCh that underwent genetic testing were homozygous negative for the COMMD1 deletion and ATP7A variant but homozygous positive (n = 7) or heterozygous (n = 4) for the ATP7B variant. Liver histology often demonstrated marked architectural distortion by severe, bridging fibrosis and regenerative nodules with lymphoplasmacytic inflammation. Centrilobular copper accumulation characterised early cases with minimal fibrosis. When fibrosis was significant, copper was often differentially concentrated within regenerative nodules. Chelation therapy resolved laboratory derangements and portal hypertension in five of seven dogs. Of the 7 non-surviving dogs with CuCH, 6 had not received chelation therapy. LIMITATIONS: Limitations include a small cohort size and the lack of pedigree analyses to corroborate heritability. CONCLUSIONS: CuCH should be considered in CKCS with suspected liver disease. Long-term prognosis seems favourable in dogs receiving chelation therapy, notwithstanding the presence of previously reported negative prognostic markers.

Carboxyhemoglobin as a diagnostic and prognostic biomarker of hemolytic anemias in dogs.

BACKGROUND: Endogenous production of carbon monoxide during hemoglobin metabolism leads to the formation of carboxyhemoglobin. Carboxyhemoglobin concentration is abnormally high in humans with hemolytic anemia (HA). HYPOTHESIS: Measurement of carboxyhemoglobin concentration can discriminate HA from other forms of anemia. ANIMALS: Twenty-seven dogs with HA (immune-mediated HA, n = 22; microangiopathic HA, n = 5), 27 dogs with non-HA (kidney disease, n = 14; immune-mediated thrombocytopenia, [n = 6]; miscellaneous, n = 7) and 24 nonanemic control dogs. METHODS: Prospective cohort study. Carboxyhemoglobin quantification, a CBC and biochemistry profile were performed upon admission, and survival to hospital discharge and at 30 days were the measured outcomes. Groups were compared by the Mann-Whitney and Kruskal-Wallis tests. Receiver-operator characteristic (ROC) analyses were used to examine the predictive utility of carboxyhemoglobin for the diagnosis of HA in anemic dogs. RESULTS: Carboxyhemoglobin (median [interquartile range]) differed between dogs with HA (7.7% [2.5%]) and non-HA (3.6% [1.05]; P < .001) and dogs with HA and nonanemic dogs (3.5% [0.65%]; P < .001). No difference was detected between nonHA and nonanemic dogs. The area under the ROC curve for carboxyhemoglobin as predictor of HA in anemic dogs was 0.997 (95% CI, 0.99-1.00). Three optimal cut-off points were identified, including 5.05%, 4.55% and 4.85%, with corresponding sensitivity/specificity of 92.6%/100%, 100%/92.6% and 96.3%/96.3%, respectively. Neither carboxyhemoglobin nor any of the CBC or chemistry analytes were associated with survival. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE: Carboxyhemoglobin proved an excellent predictor of HA in dogs and might constitute a useful, ancillary tool for diagnosing and monitoring hemolytic anemias.

Treatment of a cat with presumed Bartonella henselae-associated immune-mediated hemolytic anemia, fever, and lymphadenitis.

A 2.5-year-old castrated male cat presented with fever and marked generalized lymphadenopathy of 4-months duration, despite treatment with amoxicillin-clavulanate/marbofloxacin. Abnormalities were not detected on complete blood count, serum chemistry, and FIV/FeLV test apart from a borderline, non-regenerative anemia. Peripheral lymph node fine needle aspirations revealed a marked increase in the percentage of intermediate- and lymphoblastic-lymphocytes in addition to reactive macrophages. Three weeks after presentation, the cat developed a severe, regenerative, immune-mediated hemolytic anemia (IMHA) which responded to immunosuppressive therapy. Fever and lymphadenopathy persisted. Peripheral lymph nodes tested positive for Bartonella henselae DNA in real-time PCR assay and sequencing. Treatment with pradofloxacin and doxycycline resulted in resolution of clinical signs, and negative PCR tests. Despite its reported low pathogenicity, B. henselae infection should also be considered in cats with protracted unexplained fever, lymphadenitis, and IMHA. Furthermore, a combination of pradofloxacin and doxycycline might be considered in cats with bartonellosis given its apparent clinical efficacy.

Evaluation of serum histone concentrations and their associations with hemostasis, markers of inflammation, and outcome in dogs with naturally occurring acute pancreatitis.

OBJECTIVE: To compare serum concentrations of histones and inflammatory markers in dogs with acute pancreatitis and healthy control dogs, investigate associations of these variables with coagulation test results and survival (vs nonsurvival) to hospital discharge, and examine the prognostic utility of clinical findings and routine laboratory and coagulation tests in affected dogs. ANIMALS: 36 dogs. PROCEDURES: Dogs with findings consistent with acute pancreatitis (n = 29) and healthy control dogs (7) were enrolled in a prospective, observational study. Serum concentrations of histones, interleukin (IL)-6, and tumor-necrosis factor-α were assessed for all dogs. Clinical (including ultrasonographic) findings, relevant history, routine laboratory and coagulation test results, and outcomes were recorded for dogs with pancreatitis. Variables were assessed to determine an association with outcome for affected dogs and hospitalization time for survivors; histone concentrations and markers of inflammation were compared among survivors, nonsurvivors, and controls. Correlation between quantitative variables was investigated. RESULTS: Serum histone and IL-6 concentrations did not differentiate survivors (n = 23) from nonsurvivors (6); IL-6 concentrations in affected dogs were correlated with 1,2-o-dilauryl-rac-glycero glutaric acid-(6'-methylresorufin) ester lipase activity (rS = 0.436) and hospitalization time (rS = 0.528). Pancreatitis-associated peritoneal fluid, obtundation, and jaundice were more common, and serum bilirubin concentration, serum alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase activities, and prothrombin and activated partial thromboplastin times were greater in nonsurvivors than in survivors. Thromboelastometric changes consistent with hypercoagulability were detected in survivors; hypocoagulability was detected in 2 nonsurvivors. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Serum histone concentrations were not associated with presence of acute pancreatitis or outcome for affected dogs. Further research is needed to investigate the clinical and therapeutic implications of hypocoagulability, hepatocellular injury, and pancreatitis-associated peritoneal fluid in affected dogs.

Prospective evaluation of 5 urinary biomarkers as predictors of acute kidney injury in nonazotemic, hospitalized dogs.

BACKGROUND: Early recognition of acute kidney injury (AKI) is hindered by current definitions and use of traditional, insensitive markers. HYPOTHESIS/OBJECTIVES: Urinary (u) activity of γ-glutamyl transpeptidase (GGT) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and concentrations of heat-shock protein 70 (HSP70) and interleukins (ILs) -6 and -18, are predictive biomarkers for AKI and survival. ANIMALS: Nonazotemic, hospitalized dogs (n = 118) and healthy controls (n = 20). METHODS: A prospective observational study. Nonazotemic dogs at risk of AKI were recruited and their urinary biomarker concentrations were measured at presentation. Serum creatinine (sCr) and symmetric dimethylarginine (sSDMA) were measured daily until discharge/death. RESULTS: The overall case fatality rate was 18.6%. Fifteen dogs (12.7%) developed AKI, which was associated with death (relative risk, 3.2; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.57-6.55). All 5 urinary biomarkers were significantly higher in hospitalized dogs compared to controls, with minimal overlap. uHSP70/uCr, uGGT/uCr, and uIL-6/uCr at presentation were higher in dogs which later developed AKI. Areas under the receiver operator characteristic curve (AUROC) (95% CI) for the 3 biomarkers as predictors of AKI were 0.67 (0.51-0.83), 0.68 (0.55-0.81), and 0.78 (0.65-0.91), respectively. When they were categorically classified as elevated/normal, each additional elevated biomarker increased the odds for AKI (OR, 2.83; 95% CI, 1.23-6.52, P = .01). Agreement between sCr and sSDMA was poor (Cohen's kappa = .071). The AUROC of SDMA at presentation for AKI prediction was 0.73 (0.51-0.95). CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE: Kidney injury was common, irrespective of subsequent worsening of azotemia or death. The predictive value of individual urinary biomarkers was reduced by moderate sensitivities and specificities. SDMA showed moderate discriminatory utility for AKI prediction, and often displayed discordant results with sCr.

Short Term Safety, Immunogenicity, and Reproductive Effects of Combined Vaccination With Anti-GnRH (Gonacon) and Rabies Vaccines in Female Feral Cats.

Overpopulation of free-roaming cats is a major problem leading to negative impacts on animal health and welfare, public nuisance, transmission of zoonotic diseases, and well-documented harm to wildlife. Surgical sterilization had failed to provide a practical solution to free-roaming cats' overpopulation under field conditions; therefore, efficient and safe non-surgical immunocontraception methods are aspired. Rabies is a deadly virus that may infect people and animals. However, the safety and efficacy of combined vaccination with anti-GnRH and rabies vaccines in feral cats, which often suffer from disrupted health conditions and experienced high stress level, has never been studied. Therefore, our objective was to examine the short-term safety and efficacy of anti-GnRH vaccine (Gonacon), in combination with rabies vaccine in female feral cats. Mature feral female cats were captured and divided into the following groups: (I) GonaconX1-Rabies: queens vaccinated with both Gonacon and rabies (n = 5); (II) GonaconX2-Rabies: queens vaccinated twice with Gonacon (3 weeks apart) and with Rabies (n = 4); (III) OVx-Rabies: queens ovariohysterectomized and vaccinated with rabies (n = 4); (IV) Intact-Rabies: queens vaccinated against rabies and remained intact (n = 3). Comprehensive veterinary examinations and blood tests were performed every 2 weeks for 14 weeks. Data were analyzed by Repeated-Measures-ANOVA or Fisher-Exact-Test. There were neither systemic nor local adverse reactions at the vaccination sites. Blood count (PCV, TS, RBC, HGB, HCT, WBC) and chemistry (Total protein, Total globulin, Albumin, Urea, Creatinine, Creatine kinase, Bilirubin, GGT, ALT, AST) analyses revealed no differences among groups. There were no differences in serum rabies antibodies titers among groups, and queens kept a protective titer (>0.5 IU/mL) starting at 2-4 weeks after vaccination. Anti-GnRH antibodies were detected in all Gonacon-vaccinated queens, excluding one queen (GonaconX2-Rabies group). Anti-müllerian hormone serum concentrations reduced significantly after ovariohysterectomy, as well as gradually following vaccination with Gonacon, but it remained high in intact queens. Evaluation of vaginal cytology and ovarian histology suggested that reproductive cyclicity was suppressed in Gonacon-vaccinated queens. Our results support the conclusion that in the short term, the combined vaccination with Gonacon and rabies is safe and effective in female feral cats. However, further long-term studies are warranted to test this immunologic regimen in feral cats.

Obstructive fibrinous tracheal pseudomembrane in a cat.

Tracheal intubation (TI) is a common procedure that rarely entails life-threatening complications. A 1.5-year-old female spayed cat presented with acute signs of respiratory distress 5 weeks after undergoing TI. Radiographs revealed a marked, segmental, tracheal narrowing. A hard, 5-cm-long, white-yellowish tissue was identified and removed from the trachea, with subsequent resolution of clinical signs and radiographic changes. Microscopically, the tissue consisted of fibrin and lytic neutrophils, interspaced with optically empty cavities and a few remains of talcum powder and hair shafts. Consequently, a diagnosis of obstructive fibrinous tracheal pseudomembrane (OFTP) was made. A rare complication of TI in humans, OFTP should also be suspected in cats with respiratory distress, a history of TI and radiographic evidence of tracheal narrowing. Based on cases from other species and the cat described herein, the condition can be easily resolved with OFTP removal.

Lethal acute hemorrhage from an aortoesophageal fistula following endoscopy-assisted esophageal foreign body removal in a dog.

OBJECTIVE: To describe the clinical presentation of a dog with fatal hemorrhage from an aortoesophageal fistula (AEF) immediately following endoscopic removal of an osseous esophageal foreign body. CASE SUMMARY: A 12-year-old, male mixed-breed dog presented to a university hospital with a 6-day history of gagging, hematemesis, and anorexia. Physical examination upon arrival was unremarkable. Blood work revealed leukocytosis without anemia. Thoracic radiographs from the referring veterinarian demonstrated the presence of an osseous esophageal foreign body at the level of the heart base. Subsequently, esophagoscopy was performed under general anesthesia. A triangular-shaped, osseous esophageal foreign body was visualized at the level of the heart base and successfully removed. Following its removal, a deep, nonbleeding, presumably nonperforated, esophageal ulcer was revealed. While recovering from anesthesia, the dog's condition acutely deteriorated, with absence of spontaneous respiration, severe tachycardia, hypotension, white-pale mucous membranes, and hypothermia. Severe anemia was present, with hypovolemic shock likely secondary to acute, postprocedural bleeding. Medical management included rapid packed red blood cell transfusion, crystalloid fluid therapy, and tranexamic acid. Despite initial stabilization, several hours later, the dog suffered cardiac arrest and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) was unsuccessful. At postmortem examination, a 1-mm AEF was identified on the ventral aspect of the aorta that communicated with the overlying esophagus. NEW OR UNIQUE INFORMATION PROVIDED: Aortoesophageal fistulas should be considered in any patient with severe bleeding following esophagoscopy. A history of hematemesis in a dog with an esophageal foreign body should raise suspicion of an AEF and dictate case management accordingly.

Efficacy of specific antivenom and fresh frozen plasma in reversing Daboia palaestinae venom-induced hemostatic derangement.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the in vitro efficacy of specific Daboia (Vipera) palaestinae (Dp) antivenom or fresh frozen plasma (FFP) against Dp venom-induced hemostatic changes DESIGN: In vitro study. SETTING: Laboratory of a university referral hospital. ANIMALS: Five healthy dogs. INTERVENTIONS: Rotational thromboelastometry (including recombinant tissue factor or kaolin activators [EXTEM and INTEM, respectively]) and conventional hemostatic tests were evaluated in citrated whole blood samples that underwent 4 treatments: (1) no additives (control); (2) 15 µg of Dp venom; (3) 15 µg of Dp venom and 10 µL of specific Dp antivenom; (4) 15 µg of Dp venom and 0.3 mL of FFP. A linear mixed-effects regression model was used to compare results between each treatment and the control. MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS: Dp-venom engendered statistically significant (P < 0.05) EXTEM changes in 8/17 variables, all indicative of hypercoagulability, which were negated by antivenom but not with FFP. Similarly, Dp-venom induced hypercoagulable, hyperfibrinolytic changes in 12 of 17 INTEM variables, of which only 5 of 12 were negated by antivenom but not with FFP. Fibrinogen concentration was decreased, and the activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) was shortened (P < 0.05 for both) in all treatments compared to the control. CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrated the ephemeral procoagulant phase of Dp envenomation for the first time. Many venom-induced thromboelastometric changes were reversed by specific antivenom but not with FFP. Prospective clinical studies are warranted to investigate whether the present findings translate to clinical efficacy.

Prognostic markers and assessment of a previously published clinical severity index in 109 hospitalised dogs with acute presentation of pancreatitis.

BACKGROUND: Acute pancreatitis (AP) is common in dogs. Nevertheless, validated clinical severity index (CSI) scoring systems to assess severity and guide treatment in current, large-scale studies are unavailable. METHODS: This is a retrospective study including 109 dogs. Pancreatitis was diagnosed based on clinical signs, abdominal sonographic evidence, positive pancreatic lipase assays and experts' assessment consensus. RESULTS: The survival rate was 75 per cent (82 dogs). Azotaemia and presence of local complications (ie, ascites) and secondary complications (ie, acute kidney injury and acute respiratory distress syndrome) were significantly associated with death. In agreement with the previously published CSI, respiratory anomalies were significantly associated with death. However, in disagreement with that study, high scores in the kidney and local abdominal complication categories and the sum of scores of all nine categories, but not high gastrointestinal category score, were also significantly associated with death. A final CSI score of at least 4 was associated with death. CONCLUSIONS: This study has validated a nine-category CSI, proven a useful assessment tool in dogs with AP. Several previously reported and novel prognostic markers were assessed.

Protease inhibitors, inflammatory markers, and their association with outcome in dogs with naturally occurring acute pancreatitis.

BACKGROUND: Acute pancreatitis (AP) presumably is associated with pancreatic protease activation, protease inhibitor (PI) depletion, and inflammatory mediator secretion. OBJECTIVES: Examine PIs and inflammatory mediator concentrations in dogs with AP and their association with death. ANIMALS: Thirty-one dogs diagnosed with AP based on clinical signs, ultrasonographic findings, and increased canine pancreatic lipase immunoreactivity (cPLI) and 51 healthy control dogs. METHODS: Antithrombin and α2 -antiplasmin activity (ATA and α2 AP, respectively) and concentrations of α1 -proteinase inhibitor (α1 PI), α2 -macroglobulin (α2 MG), C-reactive protein (CRP), interleukins (ILs)-2,6,8 and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) were prospectively measured. Severity of AP was assessed by clinical severity scoring systems. RESULTS: Mortality rate was 19%. Antithrombin activity was lower (P = .004) and maximal CRP, IL-6, and TNF-α concentrations higher (P < .04) in the AP group compared to the controls, whereas IL-2, IL-8, α1 PI, and α2 AP concentrations did not differ between groups. Serum α2 MG concentration was not reliably detected. Serum cPLI, CRP, and IL-6 concentrations were significantly and positively correlated. The ATA was lower (P = .04), and canine acute pancreatitis severity (CAPS) scores higher (P = .009) in nonsurvivors compared to survivors. Higher CAPS scores were associated (P < .05) with decreased ATA and increased cPLI, CRP, and IL-6 concentrations. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE: Systemic inflammation in dogs with AP is manifested by increased inflammatory mediator concentrations, correlating with cPLI and CRP concentrations. Hypoantithrombinemia is associated with death. Serum concentrations of α2 AP and α1 PI are less useful prognostic markers. The CAPS score is a useful prognostic marker in dogs with AP.

Time course of serum cobalamin, folate, and total iron binding capacity concentrations in pregnant bitches and association with hematological variables and survival.

BACKGROUND: Hypocobalaminemia, hypofolatemia and iron deficiency are associated with pregnancy-related anemia (PRA) and neonatal survival (NS) in women. Similar associations have not been investigated in pregnant bitches. OBJECTIVES: To investigate time course and associations of serum cobalamin, folate and iron status indicators with hematological variables and NS in pregnant bitches. ANIMALS: Forty-eight pregnant bitches. METHODS: A prospective cohort study. Pregnancy was confirmed by abdominal ultrasonography twice during mid- and late pregnancy, concurrently with blood sampling. Associations among pregnancy stage, NS and laboratory variables were assessed by generalized estimating equations. RESULTS: Compared with midpregnancy, serum cobalamin (adjusted mean [95% confidence interval, CI]) decreased at late pregnancy (430 pg/mL [394-466] versus 330 pg/mL [303-357], respectively; P < .001), whereas serum folate did not. Every increment of 1 in parity number or litter size corresponded to 28.6 pg/mL (95% CI, 5.6-51.6; P = .02) and 20.3 pg/mL (95% CI, 10.9-29.7; P < .001) decrease in serum cobalamin concentration. Compared with midpregnancy, serum iron (P < .001) and transferrin saturation (P = .01) increased at late pregnancy. The decrease in red blood cell count (P < .001) at late pregnancy was significantly, albeit weakly, correlated with decreasing serum folate concentration (r = 0.33; P = .02). None of the measures was associated with NS. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Pregnancy-related anemia was common at late pregnancy. Unlike in women, in pregnant bitches, serum iron and transferrin saturation were increased at late pregnancy. Future studies are warranted to investigate the clinical ramifications of hypocobalaminemia in pregnant bitches and the utility of prophylactic folate administration in mitigating PRA.

A prospective randomized study of efficacy of 2 treatment protocols in preventing recurrence of clinical signs in 51 male cats with obstructive idiopathic cystitis.

BACKGROUND: Urethral obstruction (UO) is a common complication of feline idiopathic cystitis (FIC). Robust treatment recommendations to prevent its recurrence are scarce. OBJECTIVES: To evaluate meloxicam treatment for prevention of clinical recrudescence in male cats with obstructive FIC. ANIMALS: Fifty-one client-owned cats. METHODS: Prospective, randomized clinical trial. Every male cat with FIC-associated UO was deemed eligible for the study and was recruited during hospitalization. After discharge, cats were treated with phenoxybenzamine and alprazolam for 2 weeks, with (24 cats) or without (27 cats) low-dose meloxicam (0.025 mg/kg/day PO) and monitored for 6 months. RESULTS: Cumulative number (%) of cats with recurrent UO at 10 days, 1-, 2-, and 6-months after discharge was 1 (2%), 2 (4%), 4 (8%), and 8 (16%), respectively. Overall, 12 (24%) cats experienced signs of recurrent FIC within 6 months, with (8 cats) or without (4 cats) concurrent UO. No difference in the cumulative incidence of UO within 6 months was detected with addition of meloxicam (odds ratio [95% confidence interval], 0.63 [0.13-2.97]; P = .70). All cats were alive at 6 months. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE: No clinical benefit was detected with the addition of low-dose meloxicam to phenoxybenzamine and alprazolam treatment for 2 weeks after discharge. Nevertheless, this study was underpowered to identify potential differences, and its findings must be corroborated in larger studies.

Impacts of previous heatstroke history on physiological parameters eHSP72 and biomarkers of oxidative stress in military working dogs.

Heatstroke (HS) is an acute, progressive life-threatening emergency. Animals, including military working dogs (IDFMWD), rapidly activate cytoprotective processes, e.g., heat shock proteins (HSPs) and antioxidative molecules, in response to heat stress. We hypothesized that serum HSPs (eHSP72) and oxidative stress markers would differ in IDFMWD with a history of HS compared with controls and thus could be used to detect susceptibility to recurrent HS. eHSPs concentration, oxidative stress markers, and systemic physiological parameters were studied in dogs with and without histories of HS, undergoing indoor or outdoor training. Treadmill physical performance tests (PPTs) were conducted indoors at 22 °C (groups C-I and HS-I) or outdoors under heat stress conditions of 36 °C; 60% humidity (groups C-O and HS-O). Pre-, immediately post-, and 45 min post-PPT heart rate (HR), respiratory rate, and rectal temperature (Tre) were recorded in all dogs. Likewise, blood samples were collected and eHSP72, venous blood gas analysis, and lactate and creatine kinase activity (CK) were assayed. Serum uric acid (sUA) and total serum redox potential (TRP) were measured only in the indoor group. Immediately post-PPT under both environmental conditions, Tre, HR, eHSP, sUA, and TRP (only measured in indoor PPT) significantly (P < 0.05) increased, whereas venous blood pH and bicarbonate decreased significantly (P < 0.05). Between groups comparisons demonstrated significant differences in basal HR and post-PPT Tre immediately after outdoor PPT. eHSP72 induction, CK, sUA, and serum TRP remained significantly higher in the HS group during post-PPT recovery. Taken together, animals with a history of HS have different results, and this signature of previous HS may predict altered heat sensitivity.

The interpretive contribution of the baseline serum cortisol concentration of the ACTH stimulation test in the diagnosis of pituitary dependent hyperadrenocorticism in dogs.

BACKGROUND: Current recommendation for performing the ACTH stimulation test (ACTHST) for diagnosis of hyperadrenocorticism (HAC) advocates the collection of baseline serum cortisol concentration (BC), but no references for interpretation of its results exist. OBJECTIVE: Evaluate the contribution of BC of the ACTHST to the diagnosis of HAC. ANIMALS: Fifty-four dogs were evaluated for suspected HAC at a referral hospital. METHODS: Records of dogs that had been evaluated by ACTHST for suspected HAC were reviewed. Receiver operator characteristics (ROC) analyses were used to assess the performance of BC, post-stimulation serum cortisol concentrations (PC), post-to-baseline cortisol concentration difference (DeltaC) and quotient (RatioC) for the diagnosis of HAC by comparing the area under the ROC curve (AUC) of PC to each of the other tests. RESULTS: The AUC of PC (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.92; 95% CI, 0.81-0.98) was significantly higher than AUCs of BC (0.70; 95% CI, 0.56-0.82; P = .01) and RatioC (0.55; 95% CI, 0.41-0.69; P < .001), and was not significantly different from AUC of DeltaC (0.86; 95% CI, 0.74-0.94; P = .09). An optimal cutoff value of 683 nmol/L (24.8 µg/dL) for PC yielded a sensitivity of 86% and a specificity of 94%, respectively, and a cutoff value of 718 nmol/L (26.0 µg/dL) yielded a specificity of 100% with of 81% sensitivity for the diagnosis of pituitary-dependent HAC. CONCLUSION AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE: The PC had good discriminatory ability for the diagnosis of HAC. It was comparable to DeltaC, whereas BC and RatioC were ineffective. Current recommendations to collect samples for BC appear redundant.

A retrospective study of 157 hospitalized cats with pancreatitis in a tertiary care center: Clinical, imaging and laboratory findings, potential prognostic markers and outcome.

BACKGROUND: Pancreatitis in cats (FP) has been increasingly diagnosed in recent years, but clinical studies of large numbers of affected cats are scarce. OBJECTIVES: To describe a large cohort of cats with FP requiring hospitalization. ANIMALS: One hundred and fifty-seven client-owned cats. METHODS: Retrospective study, including cats diagnosed with pancreatitis based on sonographic evidence, positive SNAP feline pancreatic lipase immunoreactivity test results, increased 1,2-o-dilauryl-rac-glycerol-glutaric Acid-(6'-methylresorufin ester)-lipase activity, histopathology, or some combination of these. RESULTS: One-hundred and twenty-two cats (77.7%) survived to discharge. Median time from onset of clinical signs to presentation was longer (P = .003) in nonsurvivors. Causes of FP included recent general anesthesia, trauma, hemodynamic compromise, and organophosphate intoxication, but most cases (86.6%) were idiopathic. Ultrasonographic findings consistent with pancreatitis were documented in 134 cats, including pancreatomegaly (81.3%), decreased (31.3%), or increased (14.9%) pancreatic echogenicity, extra-hepatic biliary tract dilatation (24%), and increased peri-pancreatic echogenicity (13%). Lethargy (P = .003), pleural effusion (P = .003), hypoglycemia (P = .007), ionized hypocalcemia (P = .016), azotemia (P = .014), parenteral nutrition administration (P = .013), and persistent anorexia during hospitalization (P = .001) were more frequent in nonsurvivors, whereas antibiotics were more frequently administered to survivors (P = .023). Nevertheless, when Bonferroni's correction for multiple comparisons was applied, none of the variables was statistically significant. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE: Previously unreported, clinically relevant, potential prognostic factors, including hypoglycemia, azotemia, parenteral nutrition, and withholding antibacterial treatment were identified in this exploratory study. These preliminary results should be examined further in confirmatory studies.

Utility of urinary alkaline phosphatase and γ-glutamyl transpeptidase in diagnosing acute kidney injury in dogs.

The diagnostic utility of urinary alkaline phosphatase (uALP) and γ-glutamyl transpeptidase (uGGT) activities in naturally occurring acute kidney injury (AKI) was investigated in a heterogeneous group of dogs. The study included client-owned dogs with AKI (n = 32), chronic kidney disease (CKD, n = 13), lower urinary tract infection (LUTI, n = 15) and healthy controls (n = 24). uGGT and uALP activities were normalised to urinary creatinine (uCr) concentrations (uGGT/uCr and uALP/uCr, respectively). uALP/uCr and uGGT/uCr were positively and significantly correlated (r = 0.619, P <0.001), and differed significantly (P ≤ 0.001) among groups, as well as between AKI and LUTI or CKD groups (P < 0.05), but not between the AKI and control groups. Areas under the receiver operator characteristics (ROC) curve for uALP/uCr and uGGT/uCr as predictors of AKI were 0.75 and 0.65, respectively, with optimal cut-off points showing poor to moderate sensitivity (59% for uALP/uCr and 79% for uGGT/uCr) and specificity (59% for uALP/uCr and 75% for uGGT/uCr). Higher cut-off points, with 90% specificity, showed low sensitivity (41% for both uALP/uCr and uGGT/uCr). In conclusion, uALP/uCr is superior to uGGT/uCr as a marker of AKI, but both uGGT/uCr and uALP/uCr have unsatisfactory discriminatory power for diagnosing naturally occurring AKI in dogs and therefore cannot be recommended as sole screening tests for canine AKI. However, both may serve as ancillary, confirmatory, biomarkers for detecting AKI in dogs if appropriate cut-off points with high specificities are used.

Serum acute phase protein concentrations in dogs with spirocercosis and their association with esophageal neoplasia - a prospective cohort study.

Spirocerca lupi, the dog esophageal worm, typically induces formation of esophageal nodules, which may transform to sarcoma. Ante mortem discrimination between benign and malignant esophageal masses is challenging. Serum acute phase proteins (APPs) are utilized in diagnosis and prognosis of various canine diseases as markers of inflammation. This study characterized serum APPs concentrations in dogs with benign and malignant esophageal spirocercosis and evaluated their accuracy in differentiating benign from malignant lesions. Seventy-eight client-owned dogs with esophageal spirocercosis were included. Serum C-reactive protein (CRP), haptoglobin, serum-amyloid A (SAA) and albumin concentrations were measured upon diagnosis and follow-up visits, and compared with healthy dogs, and between malignant and benign cases. Haptoglobin, CRP and SAA concentrations were higher, and albumin concentration was lower (P<0.001 for all) in infected dogs compared to healthy controls. Dogs with suspected neoplasia had significantly higher CRP (P=0.011), haptoglobin (P=0.008) and SAA (P=0.05), and lower albumin (P=0.012) concentrations compared to dogs with benign esophageal nodules. APPs moderately discriminated between suspected malignant and benign esophageal disease. None of the dogs with suspected neoplasia had concurrent normal concentrations of all APPs. The present results indicate that canine spirocercosis is characterized by an acute phase reaction, both at presentation and during treatment. When concentrations of all four APPs are within reference range, esophageal malignancy is highly unlikely. Although concentrations of all positive APPs were significantly higher in suspected neoplastic cases compared to benign ones, moderate discriminatory power limits their clinical use. Neither APP was useful to monitor response to treatment.