Diagnostic benefits of platelet-to-lymphocyte, neutrophil-to-lymphocyte, and albumin-to-globulin ratios in dogs with nasal cavity diseases.

BACKGROUND: A multimodal approach for diagnostic tests under anesthesia is required to diagnose nasal cavity pathology (NP) reliably in dogs. Blood test results may provide clues to the suspected NP. METHODS: This prospective blinded study assessed 72 dogs with chronic nasal discharge due to NPs, and 10 healthy dogs as the control group (CG). NPs were diagnosed using whole-body computed tomography (CT), upper airway endoscopy, examination of nasal mucosal swabs by bacterial and fungal culture, and histopathological examination of nasal mucosa biopsies. The exclusion criteria were the presence of any additional diseases or corticosteroid pre-treatment. In consideration of these exclusion criteria, 55 dogs entered the study. Dogs were classified into benign (benign tumors, idiopathic rhinitis (IR), and others) and malignant (carcinomas and sarcomas) NP groups. Blood count and blood chemistry tests were performed. The neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR), and albumin-to-globulin ratio (AGR) were calculated and compared. RESULTS: 25 dogs with malignant NP (13 and 12 with carcinomas and sarcomas, respectively) and 30 dogs with benign NP (seven with benign tumors,13 with IR, and 10 others) were included. In general, in dogs with NP there were only slight abnormalities in complete blood count. However, PLR was significantly higher in dogs with malignant NP (carcinoma and sarcoma) than in those with benign NP and in the CG. Compared with the CG, the NLR was significantly increased in all dogs with NP, and the AGR was mild but significantly lower, except in dogs with sarcomas and benign tumors. CONCLUSIONS: In dogs with nasal disease alone, there are usually no marked abnormalities in blood count. However, while mildly increased NLR and decreased AGR can be observed in almost all NPs, an increased PLR may indicate a malignant NP and can be used as an additional screening tool in dogs with nasal discharge due to nasal cavity pathology.

Tissue S100/calgranulin expression and blood neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) in dogs with lower urinary tract urothelial carcinoma.

BACKGROUND: Urothelial carcinoma (UC) is the most common neoplasm of the canine lower urinary tract, affecting approximately 2% of dogs. Elderly female patients of certain breeds are predisposed, and clinical signs of UC can easily be confused with urinary tract infection or urolithiasis. Diagnosis and treatment are challenging given the lack of disease-specific markers and treatments. The S100A8/A9 complex and S100A12 protein are Ca2+-binding proteins expressed by cells of the innate immune system and have shown promise as urinary screening markers for UC. The neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) can also aid in distinguishing certain neoplastic from inflammatory conditions. Our study aimed to evaluate the tissue expression of S100/calgranulins and the blood NLR in dogs with UC. Urinary bladder and/or urethral tissue samples from dogs with UC (n = 10), non-neoplastic inflammatory lesions (NNUTD; n = 6), and no histologic changes (n = 11) were evaluated using immunohistochemistry. Blood NLRs were analyzed in dogs with UC (n = 22) or NNUTD (n = 26). RESULTS: Tissue S100A12-positive cell counts were significantly higher in dogs with lower urinary tract disease than healthy controls (P = 0.0267 for UC, P = 0.0049 for NNUTD), with no significant difference between UC and NNUTD patients. Tissue S100A8/A9-positivity appeared to be higher with NNUTD than UC, but this difference did not reach statistical significance. The S100A8/A9+-to-S100A12+ ratio was significantly decreased in neoplastic and inflamed lower urinary tract tissue compared to histologically normal specimens (P = 0.0062 for UC, P = 0.0030 for NNUTD). NLRs were significantly higher in dogs with UC than in dogs with NNUTD, and a cut-off NLR of ≤ 2.83 distinguished UC from NNUTD with 41% sensitivity and 100% specificity. Higher NLRs were also associated with a poor overall survival time (P = 0.0417). CONCLUSIONS: These results confirm that the S100/calgranulins play a role in the immune response to inflammatory and neoplastic lower urinary tract diseases in dogs, but the tissue expression of these proteins appears to differ from their concentrations reported in urine samples. Further investigations of the S100/calgranulin pathways in UC and their potential as diagnostic or prognostic tools and potential therapeutic targets are warranted. The NLR as a routinely available marker might be a useful surrogate to distinguish UC from inflammatory conditions.

Brachycephaly in French bulldogs and pugs is associated with narrow ear canals.

BACKGROUND: Brachycephalic dog breeds have multiple skull malformations which may lead to anatomical changes in the external auditory canal. It is our frequent observation that in the otoscopic examination of the external ear in these breeds we are unable to visualise the tympanic membrane as a consequence of extreme narrowing of the proximal ear canal. Additionally brachycephalic dogs reportedly are predisposed to otitis externa (OE) and otitis media. OBJECTIVES: To characterizse the transition of the cartilaginous ear canal to the bony meatus acusticus externus using computed tomography (CT) and to investigate a possible association with OE in brachycephalic dogs. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Seventy-five client-owned dogs [pugs (n = 20), French bulldogs (n = 55)] were included and assessed for OE using an owner questionnaire and otoscopic and cytological examinations. In dorsal plane CT scans, the diameter of the porus acusticus externus was measured using novel methodology. The results were compared with a normocephalic control group without preexisting otological disorders. RESULTS: Brachycephalic dogs had a significantly smaller porus acusticus externus diameter (2.6 mm) than normocephalic dogs (5.0 mm). Of the brachycephalic dogs, 32% had OE yet this was not statistically significantly related to the diameter of the porus acusticus externus. Middle ear effusion (44%) and narrowing of the external ear canal (82.6%) were significantly more frequent in brachycephalic dogs. Only five of 150 eardrums could be visualised otoscopically. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Malformation of the porus acusticus externus causes severe stenosis of the proximal ear canal in brachycephalic dogs. A connection between stenosis of the external auditory canal and OE could not be confirmed.

Contexte - Les races de chiens brachycéphales présentent de multiples malformations crâniennes qui peuvent entraîner des modifications anatomiques du conduit auditif externe. Nous observons fréquemment que lors de l'examen otoscopique de l'oreille externe chez ces races, nous sommes incapables de visualiser la membrane tympanique en raison d'un rétrécissement extrême du conduit auditif proximal. De plus, les chiens brachycéphales seraient prédisposés à l'otite externe (OE) et à l'otite moyenne. Objectifs - Caractériser la transition du conduit auditif cartilagineux au méat osseux externe par tomodensitométrie (TDM) et étudier une éventuelle association avec l'OE chez les chiens brachycéphales. Matériels et méthodes - Soixante-quinze chiens de propriétaires [carlins (n = 20), bouledogues français (n = 55)] ont été inclus et évalués pour l'OE à l'aide d'un questionnaire du propriétaire et d'examens otoscopiques et cytologiques. Dans les tomodensitogrammes du plan dorsal, le diamètre du porus acusticus externus a été mesuré à l'aide d'une nouvelle méthodologie. Les résultats ont été comparés à un groupe témoin normocéphale sans trouble otologique préexistant. Résultats - Les chiens brachycéphales avaient un diamètre de porus acusticus externus significativement plus petit (2,6 mm) que les chiens normocéphales (5,0 mm). Parmi les chiens brachycéphales, 32 % avaient une OE, mais cela n'était pas statistiquement lié de manière significative au diamètre du porus acusticus externus. L'épanchement de l'oreille moyenne (44 %) et le rétrécissement du conduit auditif externe (82,6 %) étaient significativement plus fréquents chez les chiens brachycéphales. Seuls cinq des 150 tympans ont pu être visualisés par otoscopie. Conclusions et pertinence clinique - La malformation du porus acusticus externus provoque une sténose sévère du conduit auditif proximal chez le chien brachycéphale. Un lien entre la sténose du conduit auditif externe et l'OE n'a pas pu être confirmé.

Contexto - Raças de cães braquicefálicos apresentam múltiplas malformações cranianas que podem levar a alterações anatômicas no conduto auditivo externo. Frequentemente, observamos que na avaliação otoscópica da orelha externa destas raças não conseguimos visualizar a membrana timpânica como uma consequência do estreitamento extremo do conduto auditivo proximal. Além disso, cães braquicefálicos são sabidamente predispostos à otite externa (OE) e otite média. Objetivos - Caracterizar a transição do conduto auditivo cartilaginoso para o meato acústico ósseo externo utilizando tomografia computadorizada (TC) e investigar uma possível associação com OE em cães braquicefálicos. Materiais e métodos - Setenta cães de clientes [pugs (n=20), buldogues franceses (n = 55)] foram inclusos e avaliados para OE utilizando um questionário para os proprietários, citologia e otoscopia. Nas TCs em plano dorsal, o diâmetro do poro acústico externo foi mensurado utilizando uma metodologia nova. Os resultados foram comparados com um grupo de cães normocefálicos controle sem alterações otológicas pré-existentes. Resultados - Os cães braquicefálicos apresentaram o diâmetro do poro acústico externo (2,6mm) significativamente menor que os cães normocefálicos (5,0mm). Dos cães braquicefálicos, 32% apresentavam OE, mas não houve relação significativa com o diâmetro do poro acústico externo. Presença de efusão na orelha média (44%) e estreitamento do conduto auditivo externo (82,6%) foram significativamente mais frequentes em cães braquicefálicos. Apenas cinco de 150 tímpanos puderam ser visualizados por otoscopia. Conclusões e relevância clínica - Malformações do poro acústico externo causa estenose grave do conduto auditivo proximal em cães braquicefálicos. Não foi possível comprovar a conexão entre a estenose do conduto auditivo externo e OE.

Introducción- las razas de perros braquicéfalos tienen múltiples malformaciones craneales que pueden provocar cambios anatómicos en el conducto auditivo externo. Con frecuencia observamos que en el examen otoscópico del oído externo en estas razas no podemos visualizar la membrana timpánica como consecuencia del estrechamiento extremo del conducto auditivo proximal. Además, según la literatura al respecto, los perros braquicéfalos están predispuestos a padecer otitis externa (OE) y otitis media. Objetivos - Caracterizar la transición del canal auditivo cartilaginoso al meato acusticus externus óseo mediante tomografía computerizada (CT) e investigar una posible asociación con OE en perros braquicefálicos. Materiales y métodos- setenta y cinco perros de propietarios particulares [carlinos (n = 20), bulldogs franceses (n = 55)] fueron incluidos y evaluados por posible OE mediante un cuestionario para propietarios y exámenes otoscópicos y citológicos. En tomografías computerizadas del plano dorsal, el diámetro del porus acusticus externus se midió utilizando una metodología novedosa. Los resultados se compararon con un grupo control normocefálico sin trastornos otológicos preexistentes. Resultados- los perros braquicefálicos tenían un diámetro del porus acusticus externus significativamente más pequeño (2,6 mm) que los perros normocefálicos (5,0 mm). De los perros braquicefálicos, el 32 % tenía OE, pero esto no se relacionó estadísticamente de manera significativa con el diámetro del porus acusticus externus. La efusión del oído medio (44 %) y el estrechamiento del conducto auditivo externo (82,6 %) fueron significativamente más frecuentes en perros braquicefálicos. Solo cinco de 150 tímpanos pudieron visualizarse por otoscopia. Conclusiones y relevancia clínica - La malformación del porus acusticus externus causa estenosis severa del canal auditivo proximal en perros braquicefálicos. No se pudo confirmar una conexión entre la estenosis del conducto auditivo externo y la OE.

Tear glucose, creatinine, and urea nitrogen concentrations in cats with normal or increased plasma concentrations.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of the study was to determine the lacrimal fluid (LF) contents of glucose, urea nitrogen, and creatinine in cats. ANIMAL STUDIED: A total of 96 cats were included in the study. PROCEDURE: Venous blood and LF samples were collected. For LF sampling, three small polyurethane sponges were placed in the ventral fornix of both eyes. Both LF and plasma concentrations of glucose, urea nitrogen, and creatinine were quantitatively analyzed and compared. RESULT: Glucose (n = 40) and urea nitrogen concentrations (n = 42) measured in LF from both eyes highly correlated. While there was a very strong correlation (ρ = 0.97) between urea nitrogen concentrations in blood plasma and the corresponding tear levels (with the median LF urea nitrogen being 109% of that measured in plasma), the LF glucose concentrations were significantly lower than the corresponding plasma concentrations (with only 13% of the blood glucose concentration detected in the LF). The creatinine concentrations in tears were much lower than those in plasma, and LF creatinine was detectable in only 12/48 cats (25%). Hence, a comparison of the LF creatinine concentrations between both eyes or with the corresponding plasma creatinine concentration was not possible. CONCLUSION: Measurement of LF urea nitrogen concentrations in cats appears to be reliable and might have potential clinical utility. Measurement of LF glucose concentrations is less reliable but may still be useful in some cats. Creatinine is not reliably detected in the LF in cats. Further studies determining clinical utility of LF metabolites in cats and other companion animals are warranted.

Intraoperative and major postoperative complications and survival of dogs undergoing surgical management of epiglottic retroversion: 50 dogs (2003-2017).

OBJECTIVE: To report intraoperative and major postoperative complications in dogs treated surgically for epiglottic retroversion (ER), compare the incidence of major postoperative complications between procedures, and report survival of surgically treated dogs. STUDY DESIGN: Multi-institutional retrospective study. SAMPLE POPULATION: Fifty dogs treated with 78 procedures. METHODS: Medical records of dogs diagnosed and surgically treated for ER from 2003 to 2017 at 11 institutions were reviewed. Complications were divided into intraoperative and major postoperative complications. RESULTS: Intraoperative complications occurred during 2 of 78 (2.6%) procedures. Thirty-six major postoperative complications were documented in 22 dogs after 36 of 74 (48.7%) procedures. Postoperative complications occurred after 7 of 12 (58.3%) nonincisional epiglottopexy, 23 of 43 (53.5%) incisional epiglottopexy, 2 of 4 (50%) partial epiglottectomy, 2 of 12 (16.7%) subtotal epiglottectomy, and 2 of 3 (66.7%) other surgical procedures. Epiglottopexy failure was the most common major postoperative complication. The incidence of major postoperative complications did not differ between procedures (P = .1239), although, when combined, epiglottopexy procedures (30/55) had a higher incidence of complications than epiglottectomy procedures (4/16; P = .048). Thirty (60%) dogs were alive at a median of 928 days (range, 114-2805), 8 (16%) were lost to follow-up after 411 days (range, 43-1158), and 12 (24%) were dead/euthanized after 301.5 days (range, 3-1212). Median survival time was not reached after a median of 716 days. CONCLUSION: Although intraoperative complications were uncommon, major postoperative complications were common, especially after epiglottopexy procedures. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Although surgical treatment of ER is associated with a high rate of major postoperative complications, especially epiglottopexy procedures, long-term survival can be achieved.

A novel approach to brachycephalic syndrome. 3. Isolated laser-assisted turbinectomy of caudal aberrant turbinates (CAT LATE).

OBJECTIVE: To describe isolated laser-assisted turbinectomy of caudal aberrant turbinates (CAT LATE) as a new minimally invasive surgical procedure for the treatment of brachycephalic dogs with obstructing caudal aberrant turbinates (CAT). STUDY DESIGN: Prospective clinical study. ANIMALS: Brachycephalic dogs (24 Pugs, 1 English Bulldog) with CAT but adequate air spaces between the lamellae of the nonobstructing ventral nasal concha. METHODS: A rhinoscopically guided diode laser fiber introduced from anterior was used to dissect CAT within the nasopharyngeal meatus, while leaving the intranasal turbinates intact. Small grasping forceps were used to extract the dissected CAT from anterior or to push it through the nasopharyngeal meatus for extraction from posterior. RESULTS: Isolated CAT LATE was successfully performed on 32 CAT in 25 dogs. Intranasally applied xylometazoline helped shrink the ventral concha, making the approach and extraction easier. Minor bleeding was the only complication observed. CONCLUSION: It is possible to remove CAT with endoscopically applied diode-laser energy while leaving the nonobstructing ventral nasal concha intact.

Outcomes and prognostic factors of surgical treatments for brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome in 3 breeds.

OBJECTIVE: To determine prognostic indicators for the surgical treatment of brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS) and to compare the prognosis of 2 multilevel surgical procedures. STUDY DESIGN: Prospective clinical study. SAMPLE POPULATION: Client-owned pugs, French bulldogs, and bulldogs (n = 50). METHODS: Noninvasive whole-body barometric plethysmography (WBBP) was used to assess respiratory function before, 1 month and 6 months after upper airway corrective surgery. Postoperatively, BOAS indices (ie, ascending severity score generated from WBBP data, 0%-100%) that equaled to or exceeded the cut-off values of BOAS in the diagnostic models were considered to have a "poor prognosis." A multivariate logistic regression was used to assess predictors for prognosis. RESULTS: The median BOAS indices decreased after surgery (from 76% to 63%, P < .0001), although dogs with indices in this range would still be considered clinically affected. Age (odds ratios [OR] = 0.96, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.93-0.99, P < .05), body condition (OR = 0.06, 95% CI: 0.01-0.39, P < .01), laryngeal collapse (OR = 6.1, 95% CI: 1-37.22, P < .05), and surgical techniques (OR = 7.94, 95% CI: 1.17-54.01, P < .05) were associated with postoperative prognosis. The multivariate model suggests modified multilevel surgery (MMS) may have a better outcome than traditional multilevel surgery (TMS) (P = .034). The positive predictive value of the logistic model was 84% (95% CI: 68-94%) and the area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was 89% (95% CI: 78-99%, P <.0001). CONCLUSIONS: Younger age, normal body condition, presence of laryngeal collapse, and treatment with TMS were negative prognostic factors after surgical treatment of BOAS. MMS is recommended, particularly in dogs with a higher probability of poor prognosis.

A Novel Approach to Brachycephalic Syndrome. 2. Laser-Assisted Turbinectomy (LATE).

OBJECTIVE: To introduce a new surgical procedure based on interventional, laser-assisted removal of obstructing turbinate tissue to improve endonasal airway patency in brachycephalic dogs and to confirm the short and long term results using computed tomography (CT) and rhinoscopy. STUDY DESIGN: Prospective clinical study. ANIMALS: Brachycephalic dogs (n = 158; 70 Pugs, 77 French Bulldogs, 11 English Bulldogs) referred for treatment of severe respiratory distress because of brachycephalic syndrome. METHODS: Computed tomography and anterior and posterior rhinoscopy were performed to evaluate endonasal obstruction. Laser-assisted turbinectomy (LATE) using a diode laser was performed as part of a multilevel surgery. Nasal conchae that were causing airway obstruction were removed. RESULTS: The obstructing parts of the conchae were safely and efficiently removed by LATE, shaping a patent nasal airway in all dogs. The newly developed surgical procedure involved 3 steps: turbinectomy of the (1) concha nasalis ventralis; (2) rostral aberrantly growing turbinates (RAT); and (3) caudal aberrantly growing turbinates (CAT). Complications of the procedure included transient intraoperative hemorrhage in 51 of 158 dogs (32.3%); however, a temporary tamponade was necessary in only 2/158 dogs (1.3%). After 6 months, regrowth of turbinates required resection of possibly re-obstructing tissue in 25/158 dogs (15.8%; 1 Pug and 24 French Bulldogs). CONCLUSION: LATE is an effective method for creating a patent nasal airway in brachycephalic dogs with intranasal obstruction.

A Novel Approach to Brachycephalic Syndrome. 1. Evaluation of Anatomical Intranasal Airway Obstruction.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate airway obstruction due to abnormal intranasal anatomy in 3 brachycephalic dog breeds using computed tomography and rhinoscopy. STUDY DESIGN: Prospective clinical study. ANIMALS: A total of 132 brachycephalic dogs (66 Pugs, 55 French Bulldogs, and 11 English Bulldogs) with severe respiratory distress due to brachycephalic syndrome. METHODS: Computed tomography and anterior and posterior rhinoscopy were performed to evaluate endonasal obstruction. RESULTS: All dogs had abnormal conchal growth that obstructed the intranasal airways. Rostral aberrant turbinates (RAT) were common in Pugs (90.9%) but less frequent in French (56.4%) and English (36.4%) Bulldogs. Caudal aberrant turbinates (CAT) obstructing the nasopharyngeal meatus were commonly found in all breeds (66.7%). Deviation of the nasal septum was an almost consistent finding in Pugs (98.5%) but was less common in bulldogs. Obstructing turbinates had multiple points of mucosal contact responsible for obstruction of the intranasal airway. Interconchal and intraconchal mucosal contacts were evident in 91.7% of dogs. CONCLUSION: Selective breeding for short head conformation reduces the size of the nasal cavities to such an extent that intranasal structures grow aberrantly and malformed, leading to obstructed air conducting spaces. Intranasal airway obstruction of brachycephalic dogs may contribute to their exercise and heat intolerance because of impaired pulmonary ventilation and compromised thermoregulatory functions of the canine nose. Failure to address intranasal obstruction might be an explanation for lack of therapeutic success after conventional surgery for brachycephalic syndrome. Future consideration should be given to the diagnosis, management, and treatment of this newly described aspect of airway obstruction.

Discovery of new feline paramyxoviruses in domestic cats with chronic kidney disease.

Paramyxoviruses constitute a large family of enveloped RNA viruses including important pathogens in veterinary and human medicine. Recently, feline paramyxoviruses, genus morbillivirus, were detected in cats from Hong Kong and Japan. Here we describe the discovery of several new feline paramyxoviruses. Infections with these diverse viruses were detected in urine samples from cats suffering from chronic kidney disease (CKD). No viral RNA was found in cats without clinical signs of uropathy highlighting an association between feline paramyxovirus (FPaV) infections and CKD. Phylogenetic analyses of the detected viruses showed that they represent at least two different species, one of them representing the feline morbilliviruses detected previously in Hong Kong and Japan. In addition, a new FPaV was detected sharing only 73 % homology on the nucleotide level of the viral L-gene to currently known paramyxoviral species.

Neurologic outcome after thoracolumbar partial lateral corpectomy for intervertebral disc disease in 72 dogs.

OBJECTIVE: To determine neurologic outcome and factors influencing outcome after thoracolumbar partial lateral corpectomy (PLC) in dogs with intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) causing ventral spinal cord compression. STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective case series. ANIMALS: Dogs with IVDD (n = 72; 87 PLC). METHODS: Dogs with IVDD between T9 and L5 were included if treated by at least 1 PLC. Exclusion criteria were: previous spinal surgery, combination of PLC with another surgical procedure. Neurologic outcome was assessed by: (1) modified Frankel score (MFS) based on neurologic examinations at 4 time points (before surgery, immediately after PLC, at discharge and 4 weeks after PLC); and (2) owner questionnaire. The association of the following factors with neurologic outcome was analyzed: age, body weight, duration of current neurologic dysfunction (acute, chronic), IVDD localization, breed (chondrodystrophic, nonchondrodystrophic), number of PLCs, degree of presurgical spinal cord compression and postsurgical decompression, slot depth, presurgical MFS. Presurgical spinal cord compression was determined by CT myelography (71 dogs) or MRI (1 dog), whereas postsurgical decompression and slot depth were determined on CT myelography (69 dogs). RESULTS: MFS was improved in 18.7%, 31.7%, and 64.2% of dogs at the 3 postsurgical assessments, whereas it was unchanged in 62.6%, 52.8%, and 32.0% at corresponding time points. Based on owner questionnaire, 91.4% of dogs were ambulatory 6 months postsurgically with 74.5% having a normal gait. Most improvement in neurologic function developed within 6 months after surgery. Presurgical MFS was the only variable significantly associated with several neurologic outcome measurements (P < .01). CONCLUSIONS: PLC is an option for decompression in ventrally compressing thoracolumbar IVDD. Prognosis is associated with presurgical neurologic condition.

Inside the brachycephalic nose: intranasal mucosal contact points.

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of intranasal mucosal contact points in brachycephalic and normocephalic dogs. In total, 82 brachycephalic dogs (42 pugs and 40 French bulldogs) were evaluated by rhinoscopy for their intranasal mucosal contact and 25 normocephalic dogs were evaluated as a control group. Of those, 162 brachycephalic nasal cavities were evaluable and 140 had contact between intranasal structures (87%). Intraconchal and septoconchal mucosal contact points were the most commonly detected sites of contact. French bulldogs had a significantly higher prevalence of mucosal contact and had 3 mean contact points compared with 1.7 mean contact points per nasal cavity in pugs. Septal deviations were present in 62% of brachycephalic dogs. In the control group, mucosal contact points were present in only 7 of 50 nasal cavities (14%), and septal deviations occurred in 16% of those cases. Contact point average was 0.1 in large and 0.3 in small normocephalic dogs. Intranasal mucosal contact was identified as a common and previously unreported problem in brachycephalic dogs. Numerous contact points reduce the lumen of the intranasal passageways and indicate potential intranasal obstruction. Affected dogs might benefit from removal of obstructing conchae, potentially using laser-assisted turbinectomy.

Secondary secretory otitis media (SSOM) in 3 cats and 2 dogs.

OBJECTIVE: To describe secondary secretory otitis media (SSOM) due to obstruction of the nasopharyngeal opening of the auditory tube in cats and dogs and to characterize the effusion by macroscopic description, microscopic cytology and bacteriological analysis. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Three cats and 2 dogs with middle ear effusion and obstruction of the nasopharyngeal opening of the auditory tube detected on CT scans received myringotomy followed by macroscopic description, microscopic cytology and bacteriological analysis of the fluid obtained. RESULTS: All animals had serous to mucoid middle ear effusions and, in 2 cases, large numbers of inflammatory cells and secondary infection. Causes of auditory tube dysfunction ranged from iatrogenic stents (2) to neoplasia (3). In the non-neoplastic cases, effusion resolved in all cases after removal of the underlying cause. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Obstruction of the nasopharyngeal opening of the auditory tube leads to accumulation of fluid within the middle ear in cats and dogs. If the cause of obstruction can be removed, fluid accumulation resolves. Fluid characteristics are comparable to middle ear effusions in pugs and French bulldogs. It is important to always examine the nasopharynx in cases of middle ear effusion to rule out SSOM.

Nasal angioleiomyoma in 2 dogs.

This case report describes 2 dogs, an Appenzeller Mountain dog and an Irish Wolfhound, with angioleiomyoma within the nasal cavity. Endoscopic surgical resection resulted in cure in both dogs. Macroscopically and on diagnostic imaging, tumor masses may appear malignant because of local turbinate destruction. This highlights the importance of histological examination before any recommendations are made to owners because tumors of the nasal cavity may be benign and surgery curative.

Effect of ventral slot procedure on spinal cord compression in dogs with single static intervertebral disc disease: preliminary findings while evaluating a semiquantitative computed tomographic myelographic score of spinal cord compression.

OBJECTIVE: To (1) evaluate pre- and postoperative cervical spinal cord compression (SCC) in the context of uncomplicated ventral slot (VS) decompression using computed tomographic (CT) myelography and (2) report reliability of a semiquantitative SCC score using CT myelography. STUDY DESIGN: Prospective and retrospective, clinical pilot study. ANIMALS: Dogs (n = 17) with single static intervertebral disc disease. METHODS: On matched pre- and postoperative transverse CT myelographic images, degree and lateralization of extradural SCC were scored by 4 blinded independent observers, followed by consensus finding. Inter- and intraobserver variability was quantified using intraclass correlation (ICC). Nonparametric tests were performed comparing pre- and postoperative SCC, correlation with neurologic status and significance of lateralization. RESULTS: Because of invisible contrast agent, only 13 dogs could be fully evaluated. After VS, SCC was significantly reduced whereas neurologic function significantly improved. Ten dogs had residual compression, not affecting neurologic long-term outcome. Only preoperative compression score and neurologic status 3-7 weeks postoperatively were inversely correlated. Lateralization of SCC preoperatively did not affect postsurgical compression scores. Interobserver ICC was 0.848 and intraobserver ICC was 0.984. CONCLUSIONS: VS improves neurologic function but often fails at completely resolving extradural SCC. The proposed CT myelographic score is highly reliable, assuring consistency among and within observers.

Functionality of veterinary identification microchips following low- (0.5 tesla) and high-field (3 tesla) magnetic resonance imaging.

The ability to read patient identification microchips relies on the use of radiofrequency pulses. Since radiofrequency pulses also form an integral part of the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) process, the possibility of loss of microchip function during MRI scanning is of concern. Previous clinical trials have shown microchip function to be unaffected by MR imaging using a field strength of 1 Tesla and 1.5. As veterinary MRI scanners range widely in field strength, this study was devised to determine whether exposure to lower or higher field strengths than 1 Tesla would affect the function of different types of microchip. In a phantom study, a total of 300 International Standards Organisation (ISO)-approved microchips (100 each of three different types: ISO FDX-B 1.4 × 9 mm, ISO FDX-B 2.12 × 12 mm, ISO HDX 3.8 × 23 mm) were tested in a low field (0.5) and a high field scanner (3.0 Tesla). A total of 50 microchips of each type were tested in each scanner. The phantom was composed of a fluid-filled freezer pack onto which a plastic pillow and a cardboard strip with affixed microchips were positioned. Following an MRI scan protocol simulating a head study, all of the microchips were accurately readable. Neither 0.5 nor 3 Tesla imaging affected microchip function in this study.

Thoracolumbar spinal arachnoid diverticula in 5 pug dogs.

Clinical features, myelography, and computed tomography imaging findings as well as neurological outcome with and without surgery in 5 pug dogs with thoracolumbar arachnoid diverticula are described. Short-term prognosis after surgical therapy may not be as good as reported for other canine breeds, since immediate postsurgical deterioration is possible. Improvement of neurological deficits beyond the presurgical status may take several months.

Diverticules arachnoïdes spinales thoraco-lombaires chez 5 chiens Carlin. Les caractéristiques cliniques, la myélographie et l'imagerie par tomodensitométrie ainsi que les résultats neurologiques avec et sans chirurgie chez 5 chiens Carlin atteints de diverticules arachnoïdes thoraco-lombaires sont décrits. Le pronostic à court terme après la thérapie chirurgicale peut ne pas être aussi bon que signalé pour d'autres races canines, vu qu'une détérioration postchirurgicale immédiate est possible. L'amélioration des déficits neurologiques par rapport à l'état avant la chirurgie peut prendre plusieurs mois.(Traduit par Isabelle Vallières).

[Nasal obstruction: Odontogenic cysts in 4 brachycephalic dogs]. / Nasale Obstruktion: Odontogene Zysten bei 4 brachyzephalen Hunden.

OBJECTIVE: Odontogenic cysts may be of developmental or inflammatory origin. They are frequently observed in brachycephalic dogs. Due to their expansive growth, cysts in the maxilla may extend into the nasal cavity, obstruct the nasal airway and cause nasal discharge. Epithelial cysts may lead to a comparable clinical picture. A new endonasal endoscopic intervention for the removal of these cysts is described. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Four brachycephalic dogs (Boxer, Chihuahua, French bulldog, Pug) with unilateral cysts obstructing the nasal cavity were included in the study. The animals underwent clinical examination, computed tomography (CT) imaging and rhinoscopy examination. Histopathologic evaluation of the cyst wall was performed. In addition to dental surgery and conventional extraction of the involved tooth, the cyst wall was removed by endoscopic intervention via the physiologic nasal opening. Clinical course following treatment was assessed by rhinoscopy and CT. RESULTS: The main clinical signs were unilateral or bilateral serous to hemorrhagic nasal discharge. Nasal airflow was restricted in all patients. Removal of the cysts and involved teeth did not lead to any intra- and postoperative complications. No recurrence of the cysts was observed. Histologic diagnosis consisted of an epidermoid cyst, a follicular cyst, a radicular cyst, and a canine odontogenic parakeratinized cyst (COPC). Neoplastic transformation was excluded in all cases. CONCLUSIONS: Removal of the cyst wall may be performed by means of minimally invasive endoscopic intervention via the physiologic nasal entrance. The procedure is curative and carries the risk of only few complications. In cases in which treatment is restricted to extraction of the affected tooth, the nasal airway may remain obstructed due to a calcified cyst wall. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: In brachycephalic dogs, oronasal defects due to dental pathology are the most common reason for chronic nasal discharge, whereas in normocephalic dogs nasal neoplasia are. Odontogenic cysts carry importance as differential diagnosis of nasal discharge.

Suspected macular degeneration in a captive Western lowland gorilla (Gorilla gorilla gorilla).

The case of a 31-year-old captive female Western lowland gorilla (Gorilla gorilla gorilla) with decreased near vision but good distance vision is presented. Examination of the fundus revealed drusen-like bodies in the macula presumably because of an age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

Cholesteatoma after lateral bulla osteotomy in two brachycephalic dogs.

This report describes a French bulldog and a pug that presented to the authors' hospital following total ear canal ablation (TECA) and lateral bulla osteotomy (LBO), with signs of recurring otitis media and difficulty opening their mouths. The bulldog also had unilateral facial paralysis and sensory deficits of the trigeminal nerve on the ipsilateral side. Computed tomography and MRI scans suggested cholesteatoma in the bulldog, but showed only slight enlargement of the bulla in the pug. Histopathologic examination of samples yielded cholesteatoma in both cases. The authors suspect that development of the cholesteatomas was linked to the TECA/LBO surgery in both cases. Cholesteatomas may occur more frequently than currently thought. Even if only slight changes of the bulla wall are detected on CT, early-stage cholesteatoma should be considered. The narrow anatomic conditions in brachycephalic dogs possibly predispose such breeds to develop cholesteatoma after middle ear surgery because complete removal of all inflammatory and epithelial tissue can be more difficult than in other breeds. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first report of an aural cholesteatoma causing sensory deficits of the trigeminal nerve.