Auricular and laryngeal chondritis in nursery and finishing pigs.

This work aimed to characterize the clinic-pathological presentation of an outbreak of auricular and laryngeal chondritis in pigs. Visits were made to pig farms, where the clinical history was obtained, and clinical and postmortem examinations were performed. In those farms, 3% to 4% of pigs presented otohematomas, which started in the nursery and extended to the finishing phase. Moreover, some finishing pigs presented with respiratory distress, initially characterized as inspiratory dyspnea, associated by an uncommon respiratory stridor and culminating in death. Grossly, nursery piglets had enlarged ears, and on the cut surface, the cartilage was fragmented and associated with blood clots. In the finishing phase, in addition to auricular lesions, the epiglottis and arytenoid cartilages were thickened and distorted, which partially occluded the lumen. Microscopically, the laryngeal and auricular cartilages were fragmented, displayed a loss of matrix basophilia, and were surrounded by lymphohistiocytic inflammatory infiltrate, with occasional multinucleated giant cells and fibrosis. The lesions exclusively affected elastic cartilages. The disease in finishing pigs led to increased mortality and was a differential diagnosis to respiratory challenges. It was not possible to determine the factor that triggered this condition; however, a nutritional association is suspected. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first report of primary auricular and laryngeal chondritis in pigs.

Patellar development after patella instability and early reduction in growing rabbits.

BACKGROUND: Patella-shaped disorder has been considered as a predisposing factor for patella instability. But the influence of early patella reduction for patellar development remains unclear. This study aimed to evaluate whether early operation in patella instability could improve patella morphology in growing rabbits. METHODS: Fifty rabbits (1-month-old) were included in the study. The control group underwent no surgical procedures. The two experimental groups (reduction group and non-reduced group), underwent medial soft tissue restraint release surgery. The reduction group, rabbits underwent the medial soft tissue sutura surgery in order to stabilize the patella 2 months after release surgery. The non-reduced group, rabbits did not undergo suture surgery. Computed Tomography (CT) scans analysis in two experimental endpoints (2, 5 months after release surgery) were selected to evaluate the transverse diameter, thickness, Wiberg index and Wiberg angle. Gross observation was conducted to assess morphological changes of the patella. RESULTS: CT scans showed significant difference in the mean transverse diameter, Wiberg angle between the two experimental groups and the control group 2 months after release surgery. 5 months after release surgery, the indices of patella were found no statistically difference in the reduction group versus the control group. However, the transverse diameter, Wiberg angle in the non-reduced group were significantly differences than that in the reduction group (P < 0.05). Gross observation showed a flattened articular surface of the patella in the non-reduced group. CONCLUSIONS: The results indicated that patella instability may lead to patella-shaped disorder, showing a flattened morphology. Early patella reduction can improve the patella morphology in growing rabbits.

Experimental models of bone marrow lesions in ovine femoral condyles.

OBJECTIVE: To develop an in vivo experimental model for bone marrow lesions (BMLs) in ovine femorotibial joints. STUDY DESIGN: Randomized, prospective experimental study. ANIMALS: Eighteen healthy, skeletally-mature Dorper cross ewes. METHODS: One medial femoral condyle was penetrated with a 1.1 mm pin, and the contralateral medial femoral condyle was treated with transcutaneous extracorporeal shockwave (ESW) at 0.39 ± 0.04 mJ/mm2 . Clinical examination, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT), and histopathological analyses were used to detect and characterize the development and progression of BMLs in the medial femoral condyle at 4, 8, and 12 weeks post-surgery. RESULTS: Pin penetration induced a BML detected on MRI within 2 weeks and lasted at least 12 weeks. BMLs were not observed in ESW-treated condyles. Histologically, BMLs were characterized by hemorrhage and inflammatory cellular infiltrate, and progressed to more dense fibrous tissue over time. Pathological changes were not observed in the articular cartilage overlying the region of BMLs. CONCLUSIONS: Direct, focal trauma to all layers of the osteochondral unit was sufficient to create an experimentally-induced BML which persisted for at least 90 days. The protocol used for ESW in this study did not induce BMLs. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Experimental induction of BMLs is possible and mimicked naturally occurring disease states. Volumetric imaging is a sensitive method for characterization of the dynamic nature of these lesions.

The use of subchondral bone topography to approximate the center of rotation of the elbow joint in dogs.

OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was to compare the approximate center of rotation in normal and diseased elbows in dogs. STUDY DESIGN: Cross-sectional study SAMPLE POPULATION: Computer tomography scans of nine dogs with unilateral fragmented medial coronoid process (FMCP). METHODS: A board certified radiologist confirmed that each dog had unilateral FMCP, and a normal contralateral elbow. Digital 3D models of all elbow joints were uploaded into a surgical planning software package. Four axes approximating the center of rotation (COR) of elbow joints were generated using five geometric shapes based on subchondral topography of the humeral condyle radius and ulna. Images showing the locations where axes exited the medial and lateral cortex of the humeral condyle were captured and imported into a second software package, for measurement of distances between exit points and the origin of a system of axes. RESULTS: In normal joints 20/27 (74%) axes exited the medial cortex, and 25/27 (93%) axes exited the lateral cortex cranial and distal to the medial and lateral epicondyles, respectively. In diseased joints 22/27 (81%) axes exited medial cortex and 19/27 (70%) axes exited the lateral cortex, caudal and distal to the medial and lateral epicondyles, respectively. CONCLUSION: Based on CT- derived geometry, the COR of elbow affected with FMCP was generally more caudal than normal. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: External landmarks approximating the location of the elbow COR are provided, and while not validated, may assist in planning, creation, and assessment of procedures for FMCP.

Skeletal pathology and bone mineral density changes in wild muskrats (Ondatra zibethicus) and red squirrels (Tamiasciurus hudsonicus) inhabiting arsenic polluted areas of Yellowknife, Northwest Territories (Canada): A radiographic densitometry study.

The City of Yellowknife is a known hotspot of arsenic contamination and there is a growing body of evidence suggesting that local wildlife in the vicinity of the abandoned Giant Mine site may be at risk of decreased bone mineralization and various bone disorders. The purpose of this study was to preliminarily measure bone mineral density (BMD) changes and investigate the incidence, pattern, and severity of bone lesions in wild muskrats and red squirrels breeding in three (3) catchment areas at different distances from the Giant Mine Site in Yellowknife, Northwest Territories (Canada): ~2 km (location 1), ~18 km (location 2), and ~40-100 km (location 3). Full femoral bones of 15 muskrats and 15 red squirrels were collected from the three sampling locations (5 from each location) and subjected to radiographic analysis and densitometric measurements. The patterns and severities of bone lesions, including changes in bone mineral density, were evaluated and compared between groups. As levels were significantly higher in the bones of muskrats caught from location 1 and 2, relative to location 3. Further, As and Cd levels were significantly higher in the bones of squirrels caught from locations 1 and 2 relative to squirrels caught from location 3. The preliminary results from bones revealed that radiographic abnormalities such as bone rarefaction, osteopenia, and thinning of the femoral shafts with significant ossific cystic lesions and bowing were the most common skeletal pathologies found in bones of red squirrels from the three locations. Radiographic appearances of massive sclerosis and dysplasia, including severe osteocondensation and osteopathia striata-like abnormalities, were found in the bones of muskrats from all the sampling locations. Densitometric evaluation showed no significant differences between the three locations in the bone parameters measured. However, there was a statistically significant correlation between As content in the bones of muskrats and percent fat content in the femur samples, which suggests that accumulation of As could have been a causal factor for a change in percent fat in femurs of muskrats.

A retrospective evaluation of complications associated with forkless tibial tuberosity advancement performed in primary care practice.

OBJECTIVE: To report postoperative complications associated with forkless tibial tuberosity advancement (TTA) performed in primary care veterinary practice and to compare results with previous publications. STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective study. SAMPLE POPULATION: Three hundred seventy-four forkless TTAs in 329 dogs performed by six nonspecialist veterinarians. METHODS: Medical records of dogs treated with a standard forkless TTA (2013-2016) and with at least 12 months of postoperative follow-up were reviewed. Complications recorded by the referring practice or the operating veterinarian were classified as minor (medically treated) or major (surgically treated). RESULTS: Complications occurred in 57 of 374 (15.2%) TTAs; 28 (7.5%) complications were major, and 29 (7.7%) complications were minor. Postliminary meniscal injuries were documented in 12 of 374 (3.2%) TTAs (12/57 major complications) and were more common when the ratio of cage size to bodyweight was ≤0.25 (P = .019). Mean TTA (cage size) was greater in this population than what has been previously reported for a lower median bodyweight. CONCLUSION: The incidence of major complications was low and within the range previously reported for TTA in referral practice after adjusting for study design. The magnitude of advancement was greater, and the incidence of postliminary meniscal injury was lower than what has been previously reported, after accounting for dogs that had a preliminary meniscal injury or medial meniscal release. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Forkless TTA may be successfully performed by experienced veterinarians in primary care practice with a low rate of complications. The incidence of postliminary meniscal injury may be reduced by a greater degree of advancement of the tibial tuberosity.

Comparison of canine femoral torsion measurements using the axial and biplanar methods on three-dimensional volumetric reconstructions of computed tomography images.

OBJECTIVE: To compare the results of the measurement of femoral torsion using the axial measurement method on three-dimensional (3D) volumetric reconstructions of computed tomography images AMM(CT), the biplanar measurement method on 3D volumetric reconstructions of computed tomography images BMM(CT) and a reference standard using the axial measurement method on stereolithographic bone models AMM (SBM). STUDY DESIGN: Ex vivo study. SAMPLE POPULATIONS: Three-dimensional volumetric reconstructions of computed tomography images and stereolithographic bone models from 23 femurs of 14 dogs with hind limb lameness presented for orthopedic evaluation. METHODS: Three-dimensional volumetric reconstructions of computed tomography images and stereolithographic bone models of each femur were created from computed tomography data. Femoral torsion was measured using the AMM (CT) and the BMM (CT) and compared with a reference standard, the AMM (SBM). RESULTS: No differences were noted among the measurement methods (P = .0863). Median measurement of femoral torsion using the AMM (CT) was 34.2°, the BMM (CT) was 36.7°, and the AMM (SBM) was 32.3°. CONCLUSION: No differences existed among the AMM (CT), the BMM (CT), and the AMM (SBM). CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Both AMM (CT) and BMM (CT) can be used to measure femoral torsion in dogs with orthopedic disease.

Influence of different housing systems on prevalence of keel bone lesions in laying hens.

The present study aimed to investigate the effect of three housing systems (furnished cages - FC, barns - B, and free-range - FR) on the prevalence and severity of keel bone protrusion and deformations. These health and welfare indicators were measured at the slaughterhouse, using a 4-point scale (0 = absence, 1 = slight, 2 = moderate and 3 = severe). Keel bone deformation was also categorized in relation to the presence of compression over the ventral surface, deviation from a 2D straight plane and deviation from the transverse (C-shaped) or median sagittal (S-shaped) plane. The housing system had a significant effect on prevalence of keel bone deformation (χ2 = 45.465, df = 6, P < 0.001). In FR systems 60.4% of hens presented keel bone deformation, followed by 54.2% in FC and 53.5% in B; however, higher scores for keel bone deformations were more frequent in B systems. Although keel bone protrusion was observed in all laying hen systems, the majority of hens only presented a slight degree (score 1) of protrusion. A positive correlation was obtained for keel bone protrusion and emaciation. The results could be used to initiate detailed investigations into problematic issues that occur during the laying period to improve the health and welfare conditions on farms.

Bisphosphonate use in the horse: what is good and what is not?

BACKGROUND: Bisphosphonates (BPs) are a family of molecules characterized by two key properties: their ability to bind strongly to bone mineral and their inhibitory effects on mature osteoclasts and thus bone resorption. Chemically two groups of BPs are recognized, non-nitrogen-containing and nitrogen-containing BPs. Non-nitrogen-containing BPs incorporate into the energy pathways of the osteoclast, resulting in disrupted cellular energy metabolism leading to cytotoxic effects and osteoclast apoptosis. Nitrogen-containing BPs primarily inhibit cholesterol biosynthesis resulting in the disruption of intracellular signaling, and other cellular processes in the osteoclast. BODY: BPs also exert a wide range of physiologic activities beyond merely the inhibition of bone resorption. Indeed, the breadth of reported activities include inhibition of cancer cell metastases, proliferation and apoptosis in vitro. In addition, the inhibition of angiogenesis, matrix metalloproteinase activity, altered cytokine and growth factor expression, and reductions in pain have been reported. In humans, clinical BP use has transformed the treatment of both post-menopausal osteoporosis and metastatic breast and prostate cancer. However, BP use has also resulted in significant adverse events including acute-phase reactions, esophagitis, gastritis, and an association with very infrequent atypical femoral fractures (AFF) and osteonecrosis of the jaw (ONJ). CONCLUSION: Despite the well-characterized health benefits of BP use in humans, little is known regarding the effects of BPs in the horse. In the equine setting, only non-nitrogen-containing BPs are FDA-approved primarily for the treatment of navicular syndrome. The focus here is to discuss the current understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of BPs in equine veterinary medicine and highlight the future utility of these potentially highly beneficial drugs.

Identification of the Identical Human Mutation in ACVR1 in 2 Cats With Fibrodysplasia Ossificans Progressiva.

Two domestic shorthair cats, 1 intact female and 1 intact male, presented with progressive limb lameness and digital deformities at 4 and 6 months of age. Stiffness and swelling of the distal thoracic and pelvic limb joints progressed to involve hip and shoulder joints, resulting in reduced mobility. Radiographs in both cats and computed tomography of the male cat revealed ankylosing, polyarticular deposits of extracortical heterotopic bone spanning multiple axial and appendicular joints, extending into adjacent musculotendinous tissues. All findings supported fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva (FOP), a disorder characterized by toe malformations and progressive heterotopic ossification in humans. In both cats, molecular analyses revealed the same heterozygous mutation in the activin A receptor type I (ACVR1) gene that occurs in humans with FOP. Several reports of heterotopic ossification in cats exist, but this is the first one to identify clinical FOP in 2 cats with the identical mutation that occurs in >95% of humans with FOP.

Investigation of changes in bone density and chemical composition associated with bone marrow oedema-type appearances in magnetic resonance images of the equine forelimb.

BACKGROUND: The aetiology of bone marrow oedema-like abnormalities (BMOA) seen on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is as yet not fully understood. The current study aimed to investigate the potential of projection radiography and Raman microspectroscopy to provide information regarding the underlying physiological changes associated with BMOA in equine bone samples. METHODS: MRI was used to assess 65 limbs from 43 horses. A subset of 13 limbs provided 25 samples, 8 with BMOA present and 17 as controls; these were examined with projection radiography to assess bone mineral density and Raman spectroscopy to assess bone composition. Statistical analysis was conducted using SPSS, the relationship between BMOA and age was tested using binary logistic regression, other outcome measures via unpaired t-tests. RESULTS: Overall BMOA was found to be associated with locally increased bone density (p = 0.011), suggesting increased bone formation; however, no measurable changes relating to bone remodelling were found, and there were no detectable changes in the chemical composition of bone. CONCLUSIONS: BMOA is associated with locally increased bone density, without an associated change in the chemical composition of bone, suggesting this is not linked to BMOA. The presence of increased bone density associated with BMOA does appear to suggest that an increased amount of bone formation is occurring in these regions, but as Raman microspectroscopy data do not demonstrate any significant changes in bone chemical composition associated with BMOA, it would appear that the increased bone volume is due to a greater amount of bone being formed rather than an imbalance in relation to bone remodelling. The study provides a proof of principle for the use of Raman microspectroscopy and projection radiography in in vitro studies of BMOA.

DISTAL LIMB SWELLING AND PERIOSTEAL PRODUCTIVE REACTION IN PERIPARTURIENT SICHUAN TAKIN (BUDORCAS TAXICOLOR TIBETANA): FIVE CASES OF PRESUMPTIVE HYPERTROPHIC OSTEOPATHY.

Hypertrophic osteopathy, a syndrome characterized by painful distal limb swelling and proliferative periosteal reaction, primarily involves the metacarpal and metatarsal bones and phalanges. Lesions are often bilaterally symmetric and typically affect all four limbs. Hypertrophic osteopathy is frequently associated with primary intrathoracic disease, though this condition has also been reported secondary to intra-abdominal and intrapelvic disease and associated with pregnancy in both people and horses. Over a 20-yr period, five adult female Sichuan takin (Budorcas taxicolor tibetana), with 13 total pregnancies, were evaluated because of lameness and distal limb swelling. These clinical signs were observed between 2 and 32 days (mean = 19 days) prior to parturition (gestation period in takin approximately 200-240 days) and resolved in all animals following parturition. Lameness and limb swelling resolved between 8 and 168 days (median = 15 days) after parturition. Sixteen radiographic examinations, from four of the individuals, documented proliferative periosteal reaction, primarily of the metacarpal bones, metatarsal bones, and phalanges. The clinical progression, resolution of signs, and radiographic features in these cases are consistent with hypertrophic osteopathy, secondary to pregnancy. This is the first report describing presumptive hypertrophic osteopathy in takin.

Pathology of the skeleton of Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins Tursiops aduncus: a comparison of adjacent gulfs in South Australia.

Studies of skeletal pathology of marine mammals can contribute to conservation measures, yet few have focused on causative factors. Museums hold vast collections of skeletons relevant to this knowledge gap. Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphin Tursiops aduncus carcasses (n = 162) were collected from Gulf St Vincent (GSV) and Spencer Gulf (SG), South Australia (SA), between 1988 and 2013, and post-mortem examinations were carried out. After preparing skeletons, their gross pathology was classified into 4 categories: lytic lesions, degenerative lesions, fractures and malformations. Comparisons were made between gulfs based on pathology type, relative age, period of collection and cause of death (anthropogenic vs. non-anthropogenic). Pathology prevalence (76%) was higher than reported in other studies but observed pathologies were similar. More than one pathology was observed in 88% of dolphins that had pathology. Vertebrae were often the site of pathology. Prevalence of lesions were: fractures (82%), lytic lesions (75%) including spondylo-osteomyelitis and osteomyelitis, degenerative lesions (57%) including spondylosis deformans, and malformations (17%). Prevalence of pathology increased with dolphin relative age, and GSV dolphins had more pathology than those in SG. In SG, anthropogenic cases had more pathology than non-anthropogenic cases, and dolphins collected after 2000 had more degenerative lesions than those collected before 2000. There were more malformations in SG dolphins than those from GSV, although this was not statistically significant. In one anomalous case, an individual was found with 5 detached transverse processes on 4 lumbar vertebrae. Heavy metal toxicity reported for T. aduncus from SG may be related to the malformations reported in this study.

IMAGING DIAGNOSIS-RADIOGRAPHY AND COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY OF RADIOULNAR ISCHEMIC NECROSIS IN A JACK RUSSELL TERRIER.

A 7-year-old Jack Russell Terrier with a history of minor trauma was presented for lameness of the left forelimb. Radiography and computed tomography demonstrated a localized radioulnar osteolytic lesion with cortical bone loss and enthesiophytes. Based on results of diagnostic imaging and histopathological examination, the final diagnosis was radioulnar ischemic necrosis (RUIN), complicated by pathologic fracture. A rare disorder of unknown etiology, RUIN may be secondary to tearing of the interosseous ligament and potential ischemia. It should be differentiated from neoplastic or fungal disease. To the authors´ knowledge, this is the first canine case report describing RUIN.

DISSEMINATED OSSEOUS METAPLASIA OF THE VENTRAL SCALES OF A GRAY-BANDED KINGSNAKE ( LAMPROPELTIS ALTERNA).

A 22-yr-old, female gray-banded kingsnake ( Lampropeltis alterna) was examined for stomatitis and hard ventral scales. On examination, the ventral scales palpated as rigid and brittle. A blood sample yielded marked hypovitaminosis D (11 nmol/L). Radiographs revealed a generalized bone radiopacity outlining the ventral scales; scale biopsies were obtained for histologic examination and presented linear, superficial, and midzonal foci of well-differentiated dermal bone and bone marrow. The stomatitis was successfully treated, but the general condition of the snake declined, and it was euthanized. The most significant finding in the postmortem examination was abnormally pale kidneys. Histologic examination revealed diffuse renal gout and diffuse osseous metaplasia in the dermis of all of the ventral scales. Generalized osseous metaplasia of the ventral scales in snakes has not, to our knowledge, been reported; the cause in this report was not identified, but given the extensiveness of the lesion, it is likely that the cause was multifactorial.

Video-assisted microwave ablation for the treatment of a metastatic lung lesion in a dog with appendicular osteosarcoma and hypertrophic osteopathy.

OBJECTIVE: To describe video-assisted microwave ablation (VAMA) for the treatment of a metastatic lung lesion secondary to right forelimb osteosarcoma in a dog. STUDY DESIGN: Case report. ANIMALS: A 10-year-old female spayed mixed breed dog with a metastatic lung lesion secondary to appendicular osteosarcoma. METHODS: An osteosarcoma of the right distal scapula and proximal humerus that was suspected to be a radiation-induced osteosarcoma was treated with limb amputation and carboplatin chemotherapy. The patient developed pulmonary metastatic lesions and hypertrophic osteopathy (HO). VAMA of a metastatic lesion in the right caudal lung lobe was performed 227 days after amputation. The procedure was performed without complication. RESULTS: Follow-up information with the referring veterinarian 40 days after VAMA indicated that the patient was stable and that the clinical signs of HO had resolved. Thoracic radiographs taken by the referring veterinarian (RDVM) at monthly intervals showed that the previously treated metastatic lesion was stable. At 134 days from VAMA, the patient presented to the RDVM for lethargy and dyspnea and was transferred to an emergency clinic. The patient arrested and died 136 days from the VAMA procedure while hospitalized. A postmortem was not performed. CONCLUSION: VAMA for pulmonary metastatic lesions is technically feasible and allows for the treatment of symptoms associated with HO and minimally invasive management of pulmonary metastases in the case reported.

Clinicopathological findings in horses with a bi- or tripartite navicular bone.

BACKGROUND: Navicular bone partition is a rare condition reported in horses, which is during the evaluation of a lameness or prepurchase examination often misinterpreted for a parasagittal fracture. In this report, the clinicopathological findings of three cases of navicular bone partition are evaluated. The possible pathomechanisms underlying the condition are hypothesised, focusing on a potential origin of foetal vascular disturbance. This study is furthermore aiming at a clearer and earlier recognition of navicular bone partition, since this condition would finally predispose for a clinical lameness with a poor prognosis. CASE PRESENTATIONS: Case 1 was a 10-year-old Belgian Warmblood gelding with a Grade 3/5 chronic, recurrent left-forelimb lameness that had persisted for 4 months. Perineural palmar digital nerve block of the distal foot abolished the lameness. Radiographic examination revealed a bipartite navicular bone in the left forelimb. Unfortunately, the animal was lost to follow-up. Case 2 was a 7-year-old Quarter Horse stallion with a Grade 3/5 recurrent right forelimb lameness that had persisted for 2 years. The lameness switched to the contralateral left forelimb with a palmar digital nerve block. Radiographic examination identified a tripartite navicular bone in both forelimbs. Pathological examination additionally revealed chronic degenerative changes of the cartilage and subchondral bone with marked cystic changes. Case 3 was a 5-year-old Dutch Warmblood gelding with a Grade 3/5 recurrent left hindlimb lameness that had persisted for 6 months. Owing to the uncooperative behaviour of the horse, only a combined peroneal and tibial nerve block could be performed, which abolished the lameness. Radiographic examination revealed a bipartite navicular bone in the left hindlimb. Pathological examination showed a navicular bipartition in the left hindlimb, with microscopic changes comparable to those evident in Case 2; additionally, cartilage indentations were also found in the navicular bones of the right front- and hindlimb at a similar location as the partition site in the left hindlimb. CONCLUSIONS: It is speculated that a navicular bone partition has a congenital origin and is caused by vascular disturbance during foetal development. This may lead to aberrant endochondral ossification or the formation of multiple ossification centres resulting in navicular bone partitioning. In the adult horse, chronic repetitive biomechanical challenges at the partition sites may induce local degenerative changes with subchondral cyst formation and thus would cause a gradually developing chronic lameness with a poor prognosis.

Pathology in skeletons of Peale's dolphin Lagenorhynchus australis from southern South America.

Peale's dolphin Lagenorhynchus australis is frequently seen off the coast of southern South America, where it feeds among coastal kelp beds and occasionally strands. We searched for macroscopic evidence of skeletal lesions in 78 specimens of Peale's dolphin from 2 museum collections, which contain almost all of the species' skeletons known in collections worldwide. Thirty-two specimens (41%) had some type of osteological abnormalities. In 21 cases (66%), congenital deformations were the most predominant abnormality found. Acquired lesions included (1) induced trauma: abnormal curvature (n=5 specimens) and fractures (n=2); (2) infectious diseases: spondylo-osteomyelitis (n=3); and (3) degenerative diseases: exostoses (n=8) and spondylosis deformans (n=4). It is noteworthy that all of these animals died incidentally in gillnet entanglement and were presumably healthy at the time of death. The effect that different osseous lesions may have on an animal's quality of life may depend on the area of the spine affected and the number of vertebrae involved.

Risk factors associated with keel bone and foot pad disorders in laying hens housed in aviary systems.

Aviary systems for laying hens offer space and opportunities to perform natural behaviors. However, hen welfare can be impaired due to increased risk for keel bone and foot pad disorders in those systems. This cross-sectional study (N = 47 flocks) aimed to assess prevalences of keel bone and foot pad disorders in laying hens housed in aviaries in Belgium to identify risk factors for these disorders and their relation to egg production. Information on housing characteristics and egg production were obtained through questionnaire-based interviews, farm records, and measurements in the henhouse. Keel bone (wounds, hematomas, fractures, deviations) and foot pad disorders (dermatitis, hyperkeratosis) were assessed in 50 randomly selected 60-week-old laying hens per flock. A linear model with stepwise selection procedure was used to investigate associations between risk factors, production parameters, and the keel bone and foot pad disorders. The flock mean prevalences were: hematomas 41.2%, wounds 17.6%, fractures 82.5%, deviations 58.9%, hyperkeratosis 42.0%, dermatitis 27.6%, and bumble foot 1.2%. Identified risk factors for keel bone disorders were aviary type (row vs. portal), tier flooring material (wire mesh vs. plastic slats), corridor width, nest box perch, and hybrid. Identified risk factors for foot pad disorders were aviary type (row vs. portal), free-range, and hybrid. Percentage of second-quality eggs was negatively associated with keel bone deviations (P = 0.029) at the flock level. Keel bone and foot pad disorders were alarmingly high in aviary housing. The identification of various risk factors suggests improvements to aviary systems may lead to better welfare of laying hens.

COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHIC FINDINGS IN CANINE ELBOWS ARTHROSCOPICALLY DIAGNOSED WITH EROSION OF THE MEDIAL COMPARTMENT: AN ANALYTICAL METHOD COMPARISON STUDY.

Medial compartment erosion is an advanced stage of medial coronoid disease, an important cause of elbow lameness in dogs, with treatment and the expected prognosis depending on the extent of the cartilage lesions. The identification of specific computed tomographic (CT) findings might facilitate the nonsurgical diagnosis and add to treatment decision making. Aims of this retrospective, analytical, method comparison study were to describe CT findings in elbows of dogs arthroscopically diagnosed with medial compartment erosion and to compare CT vs. arthroscopic findings. A total of 56 elbows met inclusion criteria. Elbows with focal (n = 13), diffuse (n = 11), and complete (n = 32) erosion were compared. Prevalence findings for CT lesions were as follows: periarticular osteophytosis (100%), abnormal shape of the medial coronoid process of the ulna (96.4%), and subchondral bone defect of the medial part of the humeral condyle (MHC; 96.4%). The three groups significantly differed for presence of medial coronoid process fragmentation, radial head subchondral bone sclerosis, and widening of the humeroulnar joint space. No significant agreement was found between CT and arthroscopy for presence of a subchondral bone defect of the MHC. A significant agreement was found between CT and arthroscopy for presence of fragmentation of the medial coronoid process. However, some of the calcified body/fragment(s) visualized on CT in the region of the medial coronoid process could not be identified via arthroscopy. Findings indicated that an accurate estimation of the extent of the elbow cartilage lesions still requires arthroscopic joint inspection.