Plasma Cell Pododermatitis Associated With Feline Leukemia Virus (FeLV) and Concomitant Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV) Infection in a Cat.

This report aims to describe one case of plasma cell pododermatitis associated with feline leukemia virus (FeLV) and concomitant feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) infection in a cat. A 2-year-old, intact male, mixed-breed cat was presented with alopecia, skin peeling, and erythematous swelling in the left metacarpal paw pad. Swelling, softening, ulceration with secondary crusts, and erythematous to violaceous discoloration were observed in multiple metacarpal, metatarsal, and digital paw pads. Complete blood count and serum biochemistry were analyzed. FeLV antigenemia and FIV seropositivity were assessed by immunoassay (enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay). Nested-PCR was used to detect FIV and FeLV proviral DNA in blood cells. Histopathological examination and anti-FeLV and anti-FIV immunohistochemical were performed on paw pad biopsies. According to clinical and histopathological findings, a diagnosis of plasma cell pododermatitis was made. The cat was FIV and FeLV seropositive. The immunohistochemical of paw pad biopsies revealed FeLV positivity and FIV negativity. This study provides reference for further investigations about feline plasma cell pododermatitis and highlights retrovirus infection as a potential factor associated with this disease.

Effects of Perching Surfaces and Foot Bandaging on Central Metatarsal Foot Pad Weight Loading of the Peregrine Falcon (Falco peregrinus).

Pododermatitis is prevalent in falcons and is characterized by inflammation and infection of the plantar aspect of the feet, particularly at the central metatarsal pad. Suboptimal perch design and increased weight loading on the plantar skin have been proposed as major risk factors for the development of pododermatitis. Prevention and treatment are challenging, but weight load reduction on the affected area of the foot is an accepted goal of initial treatment. To date, to our knowledge no studies have compared the performance of different bandage-perch surface combinations on weight redistribution away from the central metatarsal pad. An ex vivo factorial experiment was designed using the feet from a peregrine falcon cadaver to quantify weight load reduction on the central metatarsal pad with different combinations of perch surfaces (wood, neoprene, artificial turf) and bandages (none, interdigital, silicone shoe). Feet were attached to a digital force gauge mounted on a manual test stand for compression testing. Weight loading at the central metatarsal pad was measured using a small force sensor. Perch-surface combinations in randomized order were tested at 250 g, 500 g, and 1 kg with 9 replicates per foot. At 250 g, all combinations reduced measured metatarsal pad forces, but otherwise performed similarly. As compression forces increased, differences emerged with the shoe combinations performing better overall, followed by a group including the neoprene and artificial turf-interdigital bandage combinations, and a third group including the interdigital/wood and no bandage-artificial turf. All combinations performed better than control (no bandage on wood). This study may assist veterinarians in selecting appropriate perching surface/bandage combinations when treating falcons with pododermatitis.

First approach validating a scoring system for foot-pad dermatitis in broiler chickens developed for application in practice.

Measuring the severity of foot-pad dermatitis is an accepted tool monitoring the quality of animal husbandry and welfare. Up to now, a variety of scoring schemes have been used, most of them based on visual evaluation. However, a standardisation and validation of scoring systems is beneficial, not only to compare different studies, but to provide objective indicators in poultry welfare. In this study, we validated one visual scoring system, widely used in Northern Germany, by using additional information of histological measurements. Therefore, feet of broiler chickens (ROSS 308) from one flock were visually scored at the slaughter plant (4-point score). Ten feet per score level (n = 40) were sampled and analysed macroscopically and microscopically. Data were analysed using cluster analysis, providing a classification based on these histopathological findings. Validity of the visual scoring system was analysed by (1) testing the interobserver reliability between different observers and (2) by comparing both, visual and cluster classification types using the McNemar's test. In a last step Kendall tau correlations were calculated in order to find suitable parameters to judge the severity in a visual score more reliably. Results could show that most agreement was found for the score levels 1 and 2, whereas results for score levels 3 and 4 were more divergent. These results were found in both, interobserver reliability and comparison of classification types (visual vs. cluster). Results revealed interaction effects of classification type and scoring level for the width of ulcers (p = 0.0044) and the size of the lesion (p = 0.0081). In the cluster classification, higher values in both, width of ulcer and size of lesion could be found in score level 3. Furthermore, a positive correlation of the size of lesion with the depth of the ulcer was found (0.73). In conclusion, we found that histological findings coincided well with the less severe visual scores (1; 2), whereas the differentiation between the severe scores (3; 4) seemed to be less valid. For practical purposes we therefore recommend keeping visual scoring systems simple. Furthermore, as the correlation coefficient between both was quite high, the size of the lesion might serve as an indirect indicator of the depth.

Effect of litter quality on foot pad dermatitis, hock burns and breast blisters in broiler breeders during the production period.

Foot pad dermatitis and hock burn lesions are a form of contact dermatitis, a condition affecting skin areas in contact with unsuitable or irritating material. Contact dermatitis is a common problem, reducing the welfare of broilers, and is believed to also affect broiler breeders. However, there is very little research on contact dermatitis in breeders. This study followed the severity of foot pad lesions in broiler breeders throughout the production period. At slaughter the presence of hock burns and breast blisters was also determined. In addition, changes in litter condition over time and the impact of litter quality on foot pads were evaluated. The study was performed on 10 broiler breeder farms, including altogether 18 flocks. Foot pads of 100 hens per flock were assessed at the end of rearing period, three times during the production period, and at slaughter. Foot pad and hock lesions, as well as litter condition were scored on a 5-point scale. Litter quality was evaluated as pH, moisture and ammonia content. The condition of foot pads deteriorated towards slaughter age, with the occurrence of severe lesions reaching a maximum of 64% on average at slaughter. Hock lesions and breast blisters were rare. The litter layer became drier over time. Although poorer litter condition and wetness influenced foot pad health negatively, the effect on severe lesions was not significant. We also observed a negative effect on foot pad condition of larger slat areas. In conclusion, maintaining good litter quality alone is not enough to ensure healthy foot pads in broiler breeders.

Severe necrotic dermatitis in the combs of line 63 chickens infected with Marek's disease virus.

Marek's disease virus (MDV), the aetiological agent of Mareks' disease (MD), is a highly cell-associated oncogenic α-herpesvirus that replicates in chicken lymphocytes and establishes a latent infection within CD4(+) T cells. We investigated the possible effect of MDV infection on the exacerbation of necrotic dermatitis in the combs of MD-susceptible (72) and MD-resistant (63) chicken lines at 21 days post infection. MDV-infected birds of line 63 are relatively resistant to tumour development but exhibit an unusual necrosis of combs, wattles, and footpads that is intensified when infected with MDV. Chickens from line 72, on the other hand, are highly susceptible to MDV infection and tumour development. Real-Time PCR analysis revealed that IL-6, IL-8, IL-12, IL-18, iNOS, and IFNγ were all up regulated in the comb tissues of MDV-infected susceptible line 72 with no visible necrotic damage. With the exception of IL-8 and iNOS, the expression of all the other tested genes was barely detected in the necrotic combs of the resistant line 63. Real-Time PCR analysis revealed the MDV meq oncogene transcripts in the spleen tissues of both infected lines but in the comb tissues of only the susceptible line 72. A significant infiltration of macrophages and lymphocytes was detected in the comb tissues of both resistant and susceptible lines. Histopathological analysis also showed thinning and erosion of epidermis and inflammation, lympho-plasmocytic infiltration, heterophilic, and histocytic cellulitis within the connective tissues of the necrotic combs. Gram stain of the sectioned frozen comb samples exposed the presence of Gram-positive micrococcus.

Efficacy of an ethanol/guar/triclosan/glycerine gel on bacteria and yeast loads in canine pododermatitis: a pilot study.

OBJECTIVES: To assess efficacy of a gel compound containing guar, glycerine, triclosan and ethanol (Pawcare®, JOKER Technologies, Kerzers, Switzerland) in decreasing bacterial and yeast loads on the paws of dogs with erythematous, greasy and/or malodorous pododermatitis. METHODS: In 20 dogs, each with at least two affected paws, semiquantitative Malassezia species counts were performed on 10 oil-immersion fields (range: 0 to 30) from acetate tapes pressed on the palmar/plantar surface of one paw. Half of the area was sampled before and the other half immediately after the application of Pawcare(®) . With a similar procedure, swab samples were collected from the other paw for bacterial culture, identification and evaluation of colony-forming units before and immediately after treatment. Statistical evaluation of pre- and posttreatment counts was performed with the Wilcoxon signed-rank test. RESULTS: Nine dogs were positive for Malassezia species Mean acetate tape preparation counts decreased significantly from 8·78 (±8·03) to 5·668 (±6·65) (P=0·0039) after treatment. Twenty-five bacterial isolates of 11 different species were cultured in 19 dogs. Posttreatment cultures were sterile in 8 dogs that had an initial zero or low number (1 to 2 log counts) of colony-forming units. In cases with a higher pre-treatment number of colony forming units (2 to 6 log counts), there was a significant decrease - by a mean of 1·16 log counts (pre 3·12 ±1·69, post 1·96 ±1·57) (P=0·0002). CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: The findings of the present study support the use of PawCare® gel to decrease bacterial and yeast loads in dogs affected by chronic diseases involving the inter-digital spaces.

Comparative study between photodynamic and antibiotic therapies for treatment of footpad dermatitis (bumblefoot) in Magellanic penguins (Spheniscus magellanicus).

BACKGROUND: Bumblefoot, referring to bed-sore-like foot lesions, is one of the most important clinical complications in captive birds and has a multifactorial etiology. Photodynamic therapy has been proposed as an alternative treatment for localized infections in response to the escalating problem of antibiotic resistance. The aim of this study was to compare outcomes in a group of captive Spheniscus magellanicus with bumblefoot lesions treated with photodynamic therapy (PDT) or antibiotics (ATB). METHODS: Ten captive Magellanic penguins with preexisting stage III bumblefoot lesions were selected and randomly divided into one PDT and one ATB group, each including 11 pelvic-limb lesions. All animals underwent surgical debridement of lesions. In the ATB group, antibiotic ointment was applied topically three times a week, and systemic antibiotic and anti-inflammatory drugs were administered daily. In the PDT group, photodynamic therapy was applied three times a week without the use of topical or systemic medication. Lesion areas were photographed, and swabs were collected for culture and sensitivity, on the first day and every 14 days for a total of 84 days. The four species of bacteria showing the most resistance to the antibiotics screened on the antibiogram were used to determine resistance to PDT with an in vitro test. RESULTS: There were significant differences in healing rate and average healing time between the PDT and ATB groups (63.62% vs. 9.09% and 42 vs. 70 days, respectively). CONCLUSION: The findings of this study attest to the effectiveness of photodynamic therapy for the treatment of stage III bumblefoot in Spheniscus magellanicus.

Ability of hydroxypropyl chitosan nail lacquer to protect against dermatophyte nail infection.

The development of a topical agent that would strengthen the nail, improve the natural barrier, and provide better drug penetration to the nail bed is needed. In this study, we examined the effects of a hydroxypropyl chitosan (HPCH)-based nail solution using a bovine hoof model. Following application of the nail solution, changes in the hardness of the hoof samples were measured using the Vickers method. Tensile and flexural strengths were tested by stretching or punching the samples, respectively. The ultrastructure was examined using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and samples stained with periodic acid-Schiff (PAS) stain were used to determine the fungal penetration depth. The comparators included 40% urea and 70% isopropyl alcohol solutions. The HPCH nail solution increased hoof sample hardness in comparison to the untreated control sample (mean, 22.3 versus 19.4 Vickers pyramid number [HV]). Similarly, the HPCH solution increased the tensile strength (mean, 33.07 versus 28.42 MPa) and flexural strength (mean, 183.79 versus 181.20 MPa) compared to the untreated control. In contrast, the comparators had adverse effects on hardness and strength. SEM showed that the HPCH solution reduced the area of sample crumbling following abrasion compared to the untreated control (7,418 versus 17,843 pixels), and the PAS-stained images showed that the HPCH solution reduced penetration of the dermatophyte hyphae (e.g., penetration by Trichophyton mentagrophytes was <25 µm at day 9 versus 275 µm in the untreated control). Unlike chemicals normally used in cosmetic treatments, repeated application of the HPCH nail solution may help prevent the establishment of new or recurring fungal nail infection.

[Comparative field study of litter moisture and footpad alterations during the rearing period of fattening turkeys]. / Vergleichende Feldstudie zur Einstreu- feuchtigkeit und zur Fussballengesundheit während der Aufzucht von Mastputen.

In the course of a nationwide performed field study from 2010 to 2012, the footpad health of conventionally kept fattening turkeys and their rearing conditions were studied and compared to results from litter moisture measurements. In each case two rearing periods from 24 rearing farms were chosen and visited 3 to 5 days after delivery of the poults (examination 1) and again during the days 22 to 35 (examination 2). In the course of each flock inspection 60 randomly chosen turkeys were examined by adspection and palpation. Litter samples from drinking, feeding and resting areas were taken using the Darr procedure to measure moisture. Data regarding rearing conditions was collected from the farmer using standardized questionnaires. The litter moisture was 10% (6-20%) before the birds' entered the barn. At the time of examination 1 litter moisture of 43% (14-67%) in the drinking zone, 28% (12-66%) in the feeding zone, and 13% (8-31%) in the resting area were measured. At the time of examination 2 the litter moisture measurements showed 51% (32-72%) in the drinking zone, 27% (13-56% in the feeding zone and 28% (16-53%) in the resting area. At the time of examination 127.3% of the poults had footpad alterations, during examination 2 that number increased to 63.3% with 12.1% showing epithelial necrosis. The young turkeys on the three most commonly used litter substrates showed the following results at the time of examination 2: when held on straw pellets 58%, on wood shavings 29%, and on straw 17% showed unaltered footpads. Regarding the housing conditions the examinations showed specifically differences in stocking rate, drinking system and litter management.

Clinical efficacy of low-level laser therapy on localized canine atopic dermatitis severity score and localized pruritic visual analog score in pedal pruritus due to canine atopic dermatitis.

BACKGROUND: Canine atopic dermatitis is a genetically predisposed inflammatory skin disease often requiring multimodal treatment. There is a need to find further low-risk adjunctive therapies. HYPOTHESIS/OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the localized effect of low-level laser therapy (LLLT) on the paws of dogs with atopic dermatitis using a localized canine atopic dermatitis severity score (LCADSS) and owner localized pruritic visual analog score (LPVAS) in comparison to treatment with a placebo. ANIMALS: Thirty client-owned dogs with symmetrical pedal pruritus due to canine atopic dermatitis. METHODS: Dogs were randomly assigned into two groups. In each group, one paw was treated with LLLT and one paw treated with a placebo laser (comparing either both fore- or hindpaws). Treatments were administered at 4 J/cm(2) (area from carpus/tarsus to distal aspect of digit 3) three times per week for the first 2 weeks and two times per week for the second 2 weeks. Scores were assessed for each paw at weeks 0, 2, 4 and 5. RESULTS: There were no significant differences in LCADSS or LPVAS between LLLT and placebo treatments between weeks 0 and 5 (P = 0.0856 and 0.5017, respectively). However, LCADSS and LPVAS significantly decreased from week 0 at weeks 2, 4 and 5 in both LLLT and placebo groups (P < 0.0001 for all). CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE: Low-level laser therapy is not an effective localized treatment for pedal pruritus in canine atopic dermatitis.

Comparison of the antifungal efficacy of terbinafine hydrochloride and ciclopirox olamine containing formulations against the dermatophyte Trichophyton rubrum in an infected nail plate model.

Onychomycosis is a fungal infection mostly induced by dermatophytes such as Trichophyton rubrum. Due to slow nail growth, the treatment takes 3-9 months depending on the nail size and infected area. Hence, high efficacy of the active ingredient without systemic side effects is of major interest. To test the efficacy of an antifungal formulation, an appropriate in vitro model reflecting the in vivo situation as close as possible is required. In this study, a variety of antifungal formulations, i.e., commercial ones (Ciclopoli and Lamisil cream), those used in compounding pharmacies (Pentravan) as well as poloxamer 407-based systems, have been evaluated in an infected nail plate model. The active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) were ciclopirox olamine and terbinafine hydrochloride. The poloxamer 407-based formulations consisted of poloxamer 407, double distilled water, propylene glycol, isopropyl alcohol, medium chain triglycerides and either 1% ciclopirox olamine or 1% terbinafine hydrochloride as API, respectively. Former studies have shown high permeation rates of terbinafine hydrochloride from similar poloxamer 407-based formulations with dimethyl isosorbide instead of propylene glycol. The present contribution shows superior inhibition of T. rubrum growth from poloxamer 407-based formulations in comparison to the commercial Lamisil cream. Moreover, poloxamer 407-based formulations were equally effective as the nail lacquer Ciclopoli even though the poloxamer formulations contained only 1% of the drug instead of 8% in the marketed lacquer. Poloxamer 407-based systems containing ciclopirox olamine proved to be about as effective as similar terbinafine hydrochloride systems.

Sensor-based monitoring of the prevalence and severity of foot pad dermatitis in broiler chickens.

1. The aim of this study was to assess the suitability of a dielectric measurement to evaluate the prevalence and severity of foot pad dermatitis (FPD) in broiler chickens. 2. The study focussed on surveying the occurrence of FPD during the growing period of one broiler chicken flock. A scoring system consisting of 5 categories was used to assess the prevalence and severity of FPD macroscopically. Additionally, the dielectric constant (DC) of both foot pads of 50 chickens was measured in a triple iteration with the MoistureMeter D (Delfin Technologies, Kuopio, Finland) on three different dates. 3. On all measurement days, DC and FPD score were negatively correlated. The severity of FPD increased during the growing period, and severe lesions occurred at an early stage. 4. Further research is necessary to develop an effective early warning system for FPD in poultry houses. However, the non-invasive measurement of DC provides a reliable method for the objective assessment of occurrence and severity of FPD.

Factors influencing the onset and progression of pododermatitis in captive flamingos (Phoenicopteridae).

Pododermatitis is a worldwide problem in captive flamingos. We performed an evaluation of different influence factors (age, sex, weight, origin, breeding status) and a comparison of foot lesions between several zoological institutions and the feet of free-ranging Greater flamingos (Phoenicopterus roseus). A scoring system was used to determine the prevalence and types of lesions and severity. Cracks and nodules developed as early as 3 months of age and papillomatous growths as early as 6 to 7 months of age in captivity. Nodules with ulceration occurred significantly more often in birds older than 31 years and heavier than 4 kg. The comparison of different institutions revealed that birds kept in enclosures with natural-floored water ponds had significantly less severe lesions than birds kept in concrete water ponds. None of the free-ranging flamingos, which live on a muddy underground, showed any lesion. This study demonstrates that flooring, weight and age are important in the onset and progression of pododermatitis in flamingos.

Les pododermatites représentent dans tout le monde un problème chez les flamants détenus en captivité. Dans la présente étude, on examine divers facteurs (âge, sexe, poids, origine, couvaison) pouvant influencer cette pathologie et on compare les lésions constatées dans diverses conditions de détention entre elles ainsi que par rapport aux pattes de flamants roses (Phoenicopterus roseus) sauvages. La prévalence et les divers types de lésions, de même que leur gravité sont déterminées sur la base d'un catalogue de critères. Des fissures et des nodules se développent déjà chez des animaux âgés de trois mois; on peut observer des proliférations papillomateuses pour la première fois vers l'âge de 6 à 7 mois. Les nodules avec ulcération centrale s'observent significativement plus souvent chez des animaux de plus de 31 ans de même que chez ceux qui pèsent plus de 4 kg. Les flamants provenant d'enclos avec des étangs au fond naturel présentent des lésions moins fréquentes et plus bénignes que ceux détenus dans des enclos avec des étangs au fond en béton. On n'a observé aucune lésion podale chez les flamants roses sauvages vivant sur un sol argileux. La présente étude démontre que le sol, le poids et l'âge jouent un rôle dans l'apparition et le développement des pododermatites chez les flamants détenus en captivité.

Prevalence of skin lesions in turkeys at slaughter.

1. The aims of this study were (i) to evaluate the prevalence of welfare-related cutaneous lesions in turkeys at the end of the rearing period and (ii) to study the correlations between lesions. 2. The percentage of lesions in each flock was determined by observation at the slaughterhouse. Sixty flocks were investigated in 13 slaughterhouses between April and July 2006. 3. All flocks showed a high proportion of turkeys with footpad lesions, with 40·7% of turkey flocks having severe footpad dermatitis. A significant number of feet had swelling of the footpad and deviated toes (60·0% and 21·4% respectively). Arthritis was observed in 25·4% of the carcases and an average of 30·1% had breast buttons on the keel. 4. Positive correlations were found between evidence of feather pecking and arthritis, toe deviations and swelling of the footpad. Deviated toes, swelling of the feet and feather pecking were negatively linked to the most severe scratches (P < 0·001). 5. A method is proposed to assess turkey welfare at the slaughterhouse based on several criteria: footpad lesions, arthritis, severe scratches, deviated toes, swelling of the footpad and breast buttons.

Histologically-validated footpad dermatitis scoring system for use in chicken processing plants.

1. Footpad dermatitis (FPD) is a recognised welfare problem in broiler chickens. Broiler feet (n = 54) were examined macroscopically and microscopically to determine a reliable correspondence between macroscopic and histological features, and to devise a scoring system that was relevant to bird welfare and easy to use at processing plants. 2. Three types of footpad lesion were defined based on their severity. Type I were mild lesions, visually characterised by scale enlargement and erythema, and histologically by hyperplasia and hyperkeratosis of the epidermis, superficial dermal congestion and oedema. Type II were moderate, superficial lesions, visually characterised by hypertrophic and hyperkeratotic scales covered with yellowish to brownish exudate, and histologically by a prominent pustular and crust-forming dermatitis. Type III lesions were the most pronounced, visually characterised by a thick dark adherent crust, and histologically by extensive ulceration. 3. On the basis of the severity and extent of these three types of lesions, a 5-point scale was devised, i.e. no or type I lesion (score 1), type II lesion (<50% or >50% of footpad, scores 2 and 3 respectively) and type III lesion (<50% or >50% of footpad, scores 4 and 5 respectively). 4. The scoring system has the advantage of making sense in terms of welfare compared with previous schemes. Furthermore, it is histologically validated and easy to use for the routine assessment of broiler welfare in processing plants.

Footpad dermatitis in Dutch broiler flocks: prevalence and factors of influence.

In some European countries, footpad dermatitis (FPD) is measured as an indicator of broiler welfare. Prevalence and seasonal variation of FPD was determined within broiler flocks (fast-growing breeds) in the Netherlands. Samples were taken from 386 Dutch flocks at 8 slaughterhouses during a period of one year. Prevalence of footpad dermatitis was related to background information gathered using a food chain certification scheme to identify possible factors of influence. On average, 35.5% of the broilers had no lesions, whereas 26.1% and 38.4% had mild or severe lesions, respectively. Season, age, thinning of flocks, slaughter age, breed, slaughterhouse, and the interaction between thinning and slaughter age significantly affected severity of FPD. Peak flock FPD scores occurred in flocks where 1-d-old chicks were placed in March and December, whereas flocks placed in warm months, between June and August, displayed lower flock FPD scores. Generally, birds sent to slaughter when thinning a flock displayed less severe FPD than birds from completely depopulated flocks. Severity of FPD decreased with age. Because poultry farmer, hatchery, veterinary practice, and feed manufacturer were included in the model as random factors, it was only possible to assess their contribution relative to each other. The broiler farmer had the largest contribution. Also, a large contribution was found for hatchery, perhaps indicating that broiler quality is important. No relationship was observed between FPD and mortality. Across farms, less severe FPD was observed on farms using antibiotics. However, within farms, FPD was more common in flocks where antibiotics had been used compared with flocks that did not require antibiotic treatment. In conclusion, footpad dermatitis was frequently observed in Dutch fast-growing broiler flocks, and many factors had significant effects on severity of FPD, such as breed, thinning of flocks, age at slaughter, slaughter plant, and hatchery.

Evaluation of potential variables contributing to the development and duration of plantar lesions in a population of aquarium-maintained African penguins (Spheniscus demersus).

Bumblefoot (pododermatitis), often described as the most significant environmental disease of captive penguins, is commonly due to excessive pressure or trauma on the plantar surface of the avian foot, resulting in inflammation or necrosis and causing severe swelling, abrasions, or cracks in the skin. Although not formally evaluated in penguins, contributing factors for bumblefoot are thought to be similar to those initiating the condition in raptors and poultry. These factors include substrate, body weight, and lack of exercise. The primary purpose of this retrospective study was to evaluate variables potentially contributing to the development and duration of plantar lesions in aquarium-maintained African penguins (Spheniscus demersus), including sex, weight, age, season, exhibit activity, and territory substrate. Results indicate that males develop significantly more plantar lesions than females. Penguins weighing between 3.51 and 4.0 kg develop plantar lesions significantly more often than penguins weighing between 2.5 and 3.5 kg, and because male African penguins ordinarily weigh significantly more than females, weight is likely a contributing factor in the development of lesions in males compared with females. Significantly more plantar lesions were observed in penguins standing for greater than 50% of their time on exhibit than swimming. Penguins occupying smooth concrete territories developed more plantar lesions compared with penguins occupying grate territories. Recommendations for minimizing bumblefoot in African penguins include training penguins for monthly foot examinations for early detection of plantar lesions predisposing for the disease, encouraging swimming activity, and replacing smooth surfaces on exhibit with surfaces providing variable degrees of pressure and texture on the feet.

Association between skin surface pH, temperature and Staphylococcus pseudintermedius in dogs with immunomodulatory-responsive lymphocytic-plasmacytic pododermatitis.

Secondary bacterial infection is a frequent complication in lesional skin of dogs with immunomodulatory-responsive lymphocytic-plasmacytic pododermatitis (ImR-LPP). However, the influence of skin pH and temperature in determining the composition of the cutaneous microflora at lesional sites has not been investigated. The association between ImR-LPP and pedal skin temperature, pH and Staphylococcus pseudintermedius isolates was thus evaluated. Temperature and pH were measured in 20 dogs with ImR-LPP and in 30 clinically healthy control dogs, and S. pseudintermedius was cultured from interdigital and palmoplantar swabs in both groups and scored semi-quantitatively for bacterial growth. In the ImR-LPP group, mean skin pH was slightly, but significantly, higher at both interdigital and palmoplantar sites. Staphylococcus pseudintermedius was isolated more frequently, and scores for bacterial growth were also significantly higher. However, mean skin temperatures were not significantly different from those in the control group. The isolation of S. pseudintermedius was significantly associated with ImR-LPP, with the single exception of isolates on Columbia blood agar from the palmoplantar region. However, pH and temperature were not significantly associated with the disease, and were not associated with the isolation of S. pseudintermedius at most sites sampled. Staphylococcus pseudintermedius was not isolated from all feet sampled in dogs with ImR-LPP. Taken together, these data would suggest that S. pseudintermedius infection is most likely to be a secondary phenomenon in dogs with ImR-LPP, and that changes in skin pH and temperature are not significant risk factors for this disease.

Isolation of Fusarium sp. from a claw of a dog with onychomycosis.

An 8-year-old male Golden Retriever had lameness and claw abnormality in the second digit of the left forelimb. Radiography revealed osteomyelitis in the distal phalanx bone of the affected limb. Microscopic examination of the claw revealed numerous hyphae in the claw matrix. Fungal DNA fragments coding the ribosomal internal transcribed spacer region (ITS) were detected from the claw matrix as well as fungal colonies of the clinical isolates by PCR. Nucleotide sequencing revealed that the amplicons shared > 99% homology with Fusarium sp. Therapy including oral itraconazole resulted in regrowth of a new claw, in which no hyphae were detected. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first case report of canine onychomycosis in which Fusarium sp. was isolated from the affected claw.