Yersinia pseudotuberculosis in an alpaca.

A 6-year-old female huacaya alpaca was referred to the clinic for evaluation with a 1-month history of rapid weight loss, inappetence, lethargy, and severe leukocytosis refractory to medical management. Physical examination revealed a body condition score of 1 out of 5 and a large, firm structure palpable in the right caudoventral abdomen. Abdominal ultrasonographic examination revealed 3 masses with hyperechoic, swirling centers. The largest mass measured 15 cm in diameter with a 2-centimeter capsule, and extended from right of midline into the left inguinal region. Transrectal ultrasonography identified a small uterus and clear delineation between the abdominal masses. Complete blood (cell) count findings were consistent with marked systemic inflammation. Based on initial examination and laboratory findings, exploratory laparotomy was elected. Multiple mesenteric masses strongly adhered to the jejunum were observed within the abdomen. Due to the inoperable conditions and the poor long-term prognosis, the alpaca was euthanized under general anesthesia. Bacterial culture of fluid aspirated from the largest mass revealed Yersinia pseudotuberculosis. Key clinical message: Clinical progression and attempted treatment of Yersinia pseudotuberculosis in camelids have not been previously described and the bacterium should be considered as a differential diagnosis for abscessation and persistent leukocytosis. Yersinia pseudotuberculosis is also considered a zoonotic agent and proper precautions should be taken when handling cases of abdominal abscessation.

Yersinia pseudotuberculosis chez un alpaga. Une alpaga huacaya femelle de 6 ans a été référée à la clinique pour évaluation avec des antécédents d'un mois de perte de poids rapide, d'inappétence, de léthargie et de leucocytose sévère réfractaire à la prise en charge médicale. L'examen physique a révélé un score d'état corporel de 1 sur 5 et une structure large et ferme palpable au niveau de l'abdomen caudoventral droit. L'examen échographique abdominal a révélé 3 masses à centres hyperéchogènes et tourbillonnants. La plus grande masse mesurait 15 cm de diamètre avec une capsule de 2 centimètres et s'étendait de la droite de la ligne médiane jusqu'à la région inguinale gauche. L'échographie transrectale a identifié un petit utérus et une délimitation claire entre les masses abdominales. Les résultats de la numération globulaire (cellulaire) sanguine complète étaient compatibles avec une inflammation systémique marquée. Sur la base de l'examen initial et des résultats de laboratoire, une laparotomie exploratoire a été choisie. De multiples masses mésentériques fortement adhérées au jéjunum ont été observées dans l'abdomen. En raison des conditions inopérables et du mauvais pronostic à long terme, l'alpaga a été euthanasié sous anesthésie générale. La culture bactérienne du liquide aspiré de la plus grande masse a révélé Y. pseudotuberculosis.Message clinique clé :La progression clinique et les tentatives de traitement de Y. pseudotuberculosis chez les camélidés n'ont pas été décrites auparavant et la bactérie doit être considérée comme un diagnostic différentiel d'abcès et de leucocytose persistante. Yersinia pseudotuberculosis est également considérée comme un agent zoonotique et des précautions appropriées doivent être prises lors de la manipulation des cas d'abcès abdominal.(Traduit par Dr Serge Messier).

Clinical presentation, diagnostics, treatment, and outcome of goats diagnosed with presumptive cerebrospinal nematodiasis at a veterinary teaching hospital.

This retrospective study describes clinical presentation, diagnostic approach, treatment, and outcome for goats with presumptive cerebrospinal nematodiasis. A presumptive diagnosis was made based on neurologic signs, results of cerebrospinal fluid analysis, and response to treatment. Six goats were identified that met inclusion criteria. Cerebrospinal fluid analysis revealed eosinophilic pleocytosis (total nucleated cell count: 12 to 430/µL, 33 to 89% eosinophils). All 6 goats were treated with fenbendazole and anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs ± corticosteroids) and 4 received physical rehabilitation therapy. At discharge or follow-up, all 6 goats were ambulatory and had minimal neurologic deficits. Key clinical message: In goats, cerebrospinal nematodiasis caused by Parelaphostrongylus tenuis is often a presumptive diagnosis based on neurologic signs, shared habitat with white-tailed deer, eosinophilic pleocytosis, and response to anthelmintic therapy. Presumptive cases in goats have many similarities to confirmed cases in camelids. Further study is indicated to characterize the clinical signs and optimize the diagnosis and treatment of goats infected with P. tenuis.

Présentation clinique, diagnostic, traitement et devenir des chèvres diagnostiquées avec une nématodose cérébro-spinale présumée dans un hôpital d'enseignement vétérinaire. Cette étude rétrospective décrit la présentation clinique, l'approche diagnostique, le traitement et les résultats pour des chèvres atteintes de nématodose cérébro-spinale présumée. Un diagnostic présomptif a été posé sur la base des signes neurologiques, des résultats de l'analyse du liquide céphalo-rachidien et de la réponse au traitement. Six chèvres ont été identifiées qui répondaient aux critères d'inclusion. L'analyse du liquide céphalo-rachidien a révélé une pléocytose éosinophile (nombre total de cellules nucléées : 12 à 430/µL, 33 à 89 % d'éosinophiles). Les six chèvres ont été traitées avec du fenbendazole et des anti-inflammatoires (AINS ± corticostéroïdes) et quatre ont reçu une thérapie de réadaptation physique. À la sortie ou au suivi, les six chèvres étaient ambulatoires et présentaient des déficits neurologiques minimes.Message clinique clé :Chez les chèvres, la nématodose cérébro-spinale causée par Parelaphostrongylus tenuis est souvent un diagnostic présomptif basé sur des signes neurologiques, un habitat partagé avec des cerfs de Virginie, une pléocytose éosinophile et une réponse à un traitement anthelminthique. Les cas présumés chez les chèvres présentent de nombreuses similitudes avec les cas confirmés chez les camélidés. Une étude plus approfondie est indiquée pour caractériser les signes cliniques et optimiser le diagnostic et le traitement des chèvres infectées par P. tenuis.(Traduit par Dr Serge Messier).

Rapport de cas Mononuclear pleocytosis and meningoencephalitis caused by Listeria monocytogenes in an adult horse.

Clinical disease caused by infection with Listeria monocytogenes is rare in adult horses, and there is a paucity of ante-mortem clinicopathologic changes for this species reported in the literature. Confirmatory diagnosis is difficult and often requires post-mortem sampling of the brainstem. This report details a case of meningoencephalitis caused by Listeria monocytogenes in an adult American quarter horse gelding presenting with central neurologic signs. Pre-mortem analysis of the cerebrospinal fluid revealed a mononuclear, primarily lymphocytic, pleocytosis, which is a reported finding in other species with listeriosis. Post-mortem histopathologic changes of the brainstem were characteristic of listeriosis, and infection was confirmed with immunohistochemical labeling and bacterial culture. Key clinical message: Listeriosis should be included as a differential diagnosis in neurologic horses with mononuclear pleocytosis identified on cerebrospinal fluid analysis.

Pléocytose mononucléaire et méningo-encéphalite causées par Listeria monocytogenes chez un cheval adulte. La maladie clinique causée par une infection à L. monocytogenes est rare chez les chevaux adultes, et il y a peu de changements clinico-pathologiques ante-mortem rapportés dans la littérature pour cette espèce. Le diagnostic de confirmation est difficile et nécessite souvent un prélèvement post-mortem du tronc cérébral. Ce rapport détaille un cas de méningo-encéphalite causée par L. monocytogenes chez un hongre quarter horse américain adulte présentant des signes neurologiques centraux. L'analyse pré-mortem du liquide céphalo-rachidien a révélé une pléocytose mononucléaire, principalement lymphocytaire, qui est une trouvaille rapportée chez d'autres espèces atteintes de listériose. Les modifications histopathologiques post-mortem du tronc cérébral étaient caractéristiques de la listériose et l'infection a été confirmée par un marquage immunohistochimique et une culture bactérienne.Message clinique clé :La listériose doit être incluse comme diagnostic différentiel chez les chevaux avec signes neurologiques présentant une pléocytose mononucléaire identifiée lors de l'analyse du liquide céphalo-rachidien.(Traduit par Dr Serge Messier).

Visceral Haemoproteus minutus Infection in a Major Mitchell's Cockatoo (Lophochroa leadbeateri).

A 1-year-old major Mitchell's cockatoo (Lophochroa leadbeateri) was presented for evaluation of weakness, diarrhea with undigested seeds in the droppings, and weight loss. Leukocytosis with severe heterophilia, monocytosis, and lymphocytosis was noted on the complete blood count. Altered plasma biochemical parameters included a slight increase in creatine kinase and mild hypoproteinemia. Two blood smears before and after 2 days of treatment revealed mild polychromasia and anisocytosis but no blood parasites. Radiographic and computed tomographic imaging of the cockatoo were helpful in identifying airsacculitis, pneumonia, and gastrointestinal motility disorders. The patient died 5 days after treatment for the presenting clinical problems. On the gross postmortem examination, dark red foci in the ventricular muscle layers and 1-3-mm white foci in the myocardium, opaque air sacs, and dark lungs were identified. Histopathologic examination of submitted tissue samples found severe granulomatous ventriculitis and myocarditis with intralesional Haemoproteus species megalomeronts. Qualitative polymerase chain reaction testing for the cytochrome b (cyt b) gene performed on pooled heart, liver, kidney, and intestinal tissues identified 99.5% homology to Haemoproteus minutus. This case report demonstrates the expansion of the geographic range of H minutus to France and potentially to Belgium, which may compromise breeding and conservation of Australian parrots living outdoors. Challenging diagnosis, rapid disease progression, and the absence of validated treatment protocols for psittacine patients suggest that the use of preventive measures to reduce the presence of insect vectors such as hippoboscid flies and biting midges (Culicoides) should be considered. Haemoproteus minutus should be considered and potentially screened by polymerase chain reaction testing on blood samples, especially in the case of highly susceptible avian species (eg, Australian parrots in Europe) that present with sudden weakness, heterophilic leukocytosis, and monocytosis associated with mild anemia.

Cerebrospinal fluid analysis in horses, cattle, and sheep diagnosed with rabies: A retrospective study of 62 cases.

Objectives: This study aimed to characterize the findings in cerebral spinal fluid (CSF) analysis of horses, cattle, and sheep diagnosed with rabies. Animals: The study included 62 animals (horses, cattle, and sheep) diagnosed with rabies at a referral hospital. Methods: This was a retrospective study using medical records from large animals with neurological signs and confirmed positive direct immunofluorescence test for rabies from 2003 to 2020. The results of CSF analysis are presented descriptively. Results: Cerebral spinal fluid samples (N = 67) from 62 animals (31 horses, 24 cattle, and 7 sheep) were retrospectively evaluated. Of these 3 species, 28% (19/67) showed increased protein concentration, whereas 58% (39/67) presented mononuclear pleocytosis. In total, 37% of the samples (25/67) had protein concentration and total nucleated cell count within the reference range. Conclusions and clinical relevance: Cerebral spinal fluid from animals diagnosed with rabies was either normal or characterized by mild mononuclear pleocytosis and hyperproteinorrachia.

Analyse du liquide céphalo-rachidien chez des chevaux, bovins et moutons diagnostiqués avec la rage: une étude rétrospective de 62 cas. Objectifs: Cette étude visait à caractériser les résultats de l'analyse du liquide céphalo-rachidien (LCR) de chevaux, bovins et moutons diagnostiqués avec la rage. Animaux: L'étude a inclus 62 animaux (chevaux, bovins et moutons) diagnostiqués avec la rage dans un hôpital de référence. Méthodes: Il s'agissait d'une étude rétrospective utilisant les dossiers médicaux de grands animaux présentant des signes neurologiques et un test d'immunofluorescence directe confirmé positif pour la rage de 2003 à 2020. Les résultats de l'analyse du LCR sont présentés de manière descriptive. Résultats: Des échantillons de liquide céphalo-rachidien (N = 67) de 62 animaux (31 chevaux, 24 bovins et 7 moutons) ont été évalués rétrospectivement. Parmi ces 3 espèces, 28 % (19/67) présentaient une concentration accrue de protéines, tandis que 58 % (39/67) présentaient une pléocytose mononucléaire. Au total, 37 % des échantillons (25/67) avaient une concentration en protéines et un nombre total de cellules nucléées dans la plage de référence. Conclusions et pertinence clinique: Le liquide céphalo-rachidien des animaux diagnostiqués avec la rage était soit normal soit caractérisé par une légère pléocytose mononucléaire et une hyperprotéinorrachie.(Traduit par Dr Serge Messier).

Medical and Surgical Management of Phaeohyphomycosis in a Kea (Nestor notabilis).

A 2.5-year-old female kea (Nestor notabilis) weighing 711 g was presented for acute lethargy, pelvic limb paraparesis, and decreased appetite. Results from a complete blood count revealed a leukocytosis (67540 cells/µL [reference interval 4200 - 37880 cells/µL]). Radiographic images revealed a mass effect within the mid coelom. The patient was provided supportive care that included antifungal medication (voriconazole 15 mg/kg PO q12h x 6 months and 10 days) and antibiotic therapy (enrofloxacin 20 mg/kg PO q12h x 27 days). A discrete 2.3 × 2.7 × 2.6 cm soft tissue mass adjacent to multiple organs was identified on contrast computed tomographic images (IsoVue 370 at 4 mL/kg IV over 2 minutes). The mass was medial and dorsal to the proventriculus, cranial to the ventriculus, caudal to the liver, and ventral to the cranial renal divisions. The mass had an irregular vascularized wall with a poorly vascularized center. Ten days after initial presentation, exploratory coeliotomy and mass removal via left lateral coeliotomy were performed. Bacterial (aerobic and anaerobic) and fungal cultures were negative. Fourteen days postsurgery, the leukocytosis was resolved. Microscopic review of the submitted tissue mass found multinucleated giant cells, macrophages, and brown fungal hyphae with irregular internal septations and some branching, leading to a diagnosis of phaeohyphomycosis. Panfungal polymerase chain reaction testing and sequencing were unsuccessful at speciation. Treatment with voriconazole was continued until behavioral, hematologic, and computed tomographic assessments indicated resolution of the problem 6 months postsurgery. No recurrence of disease has been reported 20 months following mass removal.

Body temperature of bitches in the first week after parturition measured by ingestible loggers.

The objective of this study was to identify the physiological ranges of body temperature of bitches in the first 7 days after parturition by measurement with ingestible temperature loggers. Twenty bitches swallowed one ingestible temperature logger daily. Bitches were defined to be healthy by spontaneous parturition and leucocyte concentration. Mean core body temperatures of eight healthy bitches were (Mean ± SD) 38.8°C ± 0.40 on day 0 p.p., 38.9°C ± 0.47 on day 1 p.p., 38.9°C ± 0.35 on day 2 p.p. 38.7°C ± 0.31 on day 3 p.p., respectively. In the following days, the three remaining healthy bitches showed mean core body temperatures (Mean ± SD) of 38.8°C ± 0.30 on day 4 p.p., 38.6°C ± 0.35 on day 5 p.p., 38.5°C ± 0.27 on day 6 p.p. and 38.4°C ± 0.34 on day 7 p.p., respectively. Three out of the eight healthy bitches showed temperatures ≥39.5°C. Bitches with leucocytosis showed significant higher mean core body temperatures (39.0°C ± 0.49) than healthy bitches (38.8°C ± 0.39) during the first 3 days after parturition (p < 0.01). We conclude that the physiological ranges of body temperature of healthy bitches in the first days after parturition do not differ from those of healthy dogs in general, while the appearance of short episodes of febrile temperatures seems to be physiological. Puerperal bitches with leucocytosis show higher body temperatures increased by only 0.2°C.

Blood calcium, glucose and haematology profiles of parturient bitches diagnosed with uterine inertia or obstructive dystocia.

Bitches with dystocia most often present with clinical signs of uterine inertia (UI). The aetiology of myometrial dysfunction in most of these cases is still not elucidated. We compared blood ionized calcium (iCa) and glucose concentrations in bitches diagnosed with primary UI (PUI, n = 14), secondary UI (SUI, n = 6) or obstructive dystocia (OD, n = 6), and we described their haematology profiles. Bitches diagnosed with UI had a patent birth canal and delivered no puppies yet (PUI) or only part of the whole litter (SUI). The OD group had no UI and showed strong abdominal contractions. Blood iCa did not differ between the PUI, SUI and OD groups and was not influenced by litter size. There was a significant positive relationship (R2  = .241, p = .013) between iCa concentrations and the dam's body weight. Glucose concentrations were also not significantly different between dystocia groups or influenced by body weight and litter size. Hypocalcaemia was detected in 11 bitches, and hypoglycaemia in two bitches. Pregnancy-associated anaemia was seen in about one-third of the bitches. Eight of 12 dogs had increased platelet counts, and ten had leukocytosis with mature neutrophilia. Although iCa did not differ between dystocia groups, low concentrations may have contributed to the development of UI in some of the small size bitches. Hypoglycaemia was uncommon, and therefore, we consider low glucose concentrations not to have played an important role in the pathogenesis of UI in our study population. Pregnancy-associated anaemia, thrombocytosis, leukocytosis and mature neutrophilia were common findings in otherwise healthy bitches diagnosed with different forms of dystocia.

No fever and leucocytosis in response to a lipopolysaccharide challenge in an insectivorous bat.

Bat immune systems may allow them to respond to zoonotic agents more efficiently than other mammals. As the first line of defence, the taxonomically conserved acute phase immune reaction of leucocytosis and fever is crucial for coping with infections, but it is unknown if this response is a key constituent to bat immunological success. We investigated the acute phase reaction to a standard lipopolysaccharide (LPS) challenge in Pallas's mastiff bats (Molossus molossus). Challenged bats lost mass, but in contrast to other mammals showed no leucocytosis or fever. There also was no influence on body temperature reduction during torpor. When compared to recent genome-wide assays for constituent immune genes, this lack of a conserved fever response to LPS contributes to a clearer understanding of the innate immune system in bat species and of the coevolution of bats with a wide diversity of pathogens.

Diagnostic exercise: poor performance in a racehorse.

A 9-year-old Thoroughbred gelding presented with a 97-day history of poor performance and intermittent fever. Clinicopathologic changes included increased serum activity of γ-glutamyltransferase and alkaline phosphatase, mild hyperbilirubinemia, and leukocytosis with neutrophilia and lymphopenia. Abdominal ultrasound revealed hepatomegaly with hyperechoic hepatic parenchyma and biliary distention. Pathologic findings included marked hepatomegaly (liver 3.6% of body weight), firm hepatic consistency with a diffuse enhanced reticular pattern, severe portal bridging and sinusoidal fibrosis, oval cell/bile duct hyperplasia, and bile stasis. The differential diagnoses and diagnostic workup to achieve the diagnosis are briefly discussed.

Presumed pseudo-Pelger-Huët anomaly and basophilia secondary to chronic lymphocytic leukemia in a dog.

A 10-year-old neutered male Maltese dog was presented for an investigation of lymphocytosis. The dog was up-to-date on vaccinations and deworming. Physical examination did not reveal any significant abnormalities. A complete blood cell count (CBC) showed mild leukocytosis with moderate lymphocytosis, basophilia, and moderate neutropenia, but no significant left shift or toxic change. Serum biochemistry and urinalysis were unremarkable. All performed tests for infectious agents common in this geographical region were negative. No significant abnormalities were found on abdominal ultrasound examination. Multiparametric flow cytometry of peripheral blood showed a CD8+ T-cell lymphocytosis, and PCR for antigen receptor rearrangement revealed a clonal expansion of the T-cell receptor gamma chain genes. A clinical diagnosis of chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) was made, and follow-up was recommended. On Day 48 post-presentation, the CBC showed mild non-regenerative anemia (NRA), moderate leucocytosis due to moderate to marked lymphocytosis, basophilia, and a marked increase in hyposegmented neutrophils with mild toxic change in the absence of neutrophilia or neutropenia. Treatment with chlorambucil and prednisolone was initiated. On Days 87 and 197 post-presentation, the CBC showed mild NRA, with progressively decreasing numbers of hyposegmented neutrophils. The dog remained without clinical signs. Basophilia and probable pseudo-Pelger-Huët anomaly were possibly secondary to CLL. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first report of these two hematologic conditions secondary to CLL in dogs. Recognition of a pseudo-Pelger-Huët anomaly is clinically relevant to avoid misinterpretation as a marked left shift due to severe inflammation and prevent unnecessary urgent therapeutic actions.

Probable paraneoplastic leukocytosis in a dog with a gastrointestinal stromal tumor.

A 9-year-old female spayed Boston Terrier presented for diagnostic investigation of lethargy, poor appetite, weight loss, and a marked leukocytosis. Significant muscle wasting and a palpable abdominal mass were present on physical examination. Abdominal imaging revealed the mass to be of small intestinal origin; consequently, an intestinal resection and anastomosis were performed without complication. The histopathologic diagnosis was a gastrointestinal stromal tumor, verified by immunohistochemical positivity to CD117 (KIT). Two weeks after discharge, the leukocytosis had resolved. Though the exact molecular mediator of the severe leukocytosis was undetermined, resolution following tumor removal suggests a paraneoplastic cause. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first reported case of probable paraneoplastic leukocytosis secondary to a gastrointestinal stromal tumor in the dog. Gastrointestinal tract imaging should be performed when this uncommon hematologic abnormality is present.

Mycobacterium haemophilum infection in canine cerebrospinal fluid.

A 4-year-old female spayed Australian cattle dog was presented to the Emergency Service at the University of Missouri Veterinary Health Center Small Animal Hospital for generalized pain and lethargy. At presentation, the dog showed severe cervical spinal pain and thoracic limb deficits consistent with a multifocal neuroanatomic localization. Magnetic resonance imaging of the cervical spine revealed T2 and T1 postcontrast intense signal extending from the level of the medulla through C5 most marked in the caudal brainstem and cranial cervical spinal cord. The suspected diagnosis was severe meningoencephalomyelitis and secondary edema. Analysis of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) collected from the cerebellomedullary cistern revealed a marked mixed pleocytosis with intralesional structures morphologically consistent with Mycobacterium sp. Standard DNA PCR assay performed on the CSF yielded the presence of Mycobacterium haemophilum. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first reported case of CNS mycobacteriosis diagnosed on CSF analysis in a dog.

Persistent marked cerebrospinal fluid eosinophilia in a dog with primary central nervous system histiocytic sarcoma.

A 6-year-old female spayed Jack Russell Terrier was evaluated for episodic seizure-like activity and intermittent obtundation over the previous 3 weeks. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain revealed mild generalized dilation of the ventricular system with periventricular edema. A focal area of mildly increased lepto- and pachymeningeal contrast uptake in the region of the right parietal and occipital lobes was observed. Analysis of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) revealed marked mixed pleocytosis with 20% eosinophils and no atypical cells or microorganisms. The dog transiently improved with prednisolone for suspected eosinophilic meningoencephalitis/meningoencephalomyelitis of unknown origin (MUO) but worsened over the following 5 months. Brain MRI and CSF sampling were repeated. Additional multifocal lesions were evident in the brainstem and cerebellum. On CSF analysis, the eosinophilic pleocytosis and increased total protein persisted. The clinical signs progressed despite treatment, and the patient was euthanized 6 weeks later. A post-mortem examination was performed. Histopathology and immunohistochemistry revealed a multifocal neoplastic proliferation of cells in the brain, diffusely and strongly positive for ionized calcium-binding adapter molecule (Iba-1) and negative for AE1/AE3 pan-cytokeratin and glial-fibrillar-acid-protein (GFAP) immunostaining, consistent with a diagnosis of histiocytic sarcoma (HS). No other organic lesions were found; therefore, the neoplasm was considered a primary HS of the central nervous system (CNS). This case report stresses the importance of considering primary CNS HS in the differential diagnosis of dogs with marked CSF eosinophilia, even in the absence of atypical cells on cytologic examination.

Post-mating inflammatory responses of the uterus.

This review attempts to summarize the current knowledge on uterine inflammatory response after mating in horses, pigs and cattle. Post-mating endometritis has been extensively studied in horses as it has been considered to cause infertility. The inflammation is known to occur also in cattle, but it has not been investigated to a similar extent. There are a number of publications about mechanisms of post-mating uterine inflammation in pigs, which seem to resemble those in horses. The major focus of this review is the horse, but relevant literature is presented also on swine and cattle. Spermatozoa, seminal plasma and semen extenders play roles in the induction of inflammation. In addition, sperm numbers, concentration and viability, as well as the site of semen deposition may modulate the inflammatory response. Cytokines, polymorphonuclear leucocytes (PMN) and mononuclear cells represent the uterine inflammatory response to mating. Inflammation is the first line of defence against invasion and eliminates excess spermatozoa and bacteria. Semen deposition elicits a massive PMN invasion, followed by phagocytosis of sperm aided by the formation of neutrophil extracellular traps. Exposure of the female genital tract to semen is important also for endometrial receptivity and pre-implantation embryo development. Seminal plasma (SP) and inflammation elicit transient immune tolerance to antigens present in semen. SP contains immune-regulatory molecules that activate and control immune responses to antigens by stimulating expression of cytokines and growth factors and by initiating tissue remodelling. SP also regulates ovarian function. Effective elimination of excess sperm and inflammatory by-products and subsequent rapid return of the endometrium to the normal state is a prerequisite for pregnancy. Uterine backflow, driven by myometrial contractions and requiring a patent cervix, is an important physical tool in uterine drainage.

Etiology and outcome of extreme neutrophilic leukocytosis: A multi-institutional retrospective study of 269 dogs.

BACKGROUND: The magnitude of diagnostic abnormalities can influence the perception of clinical outcome. Extreme neutrophilic leukocytosis (ENL) is an uncommon finding caused by markedly increased granulopoiesis. A lack of recent, large-scale studies limits our understanding of the importance, causation, and prognosis associated with ENL in dogs. HYPOTHESIS/OBJECTIVES: Describe disease categories (DC) identified in dogs with ENL and identify variables associated with survival. We hypothesized that factors including fever, segmented and band neutrophil counts, and DC would be negatively associated with survival. ANIMALS: Two-hundred sixty-nine dogs with ENL (segmented neutrophils ≥50 × 103  cells/µL) presented to the veterinary teaching hospitals at Auburn University (n = 164), the University of Missouri (n = 81), and Oklahoma State University (n = 24) between January 1, 2009 and December 31, 2019. METHODS: Retrospective study. Demographic data and outcome variables including temperature, CBC findings, DC, duration of hospitalization (DOH) and outcome were acquired from the medical record. Statistical analyses included chi-squared and Kruskal-Wallis tests, and Pearson product moment correlations with a P < .05 significance level. RESULTS: Mortality was 41%. Survival differed with DC (P = .002). Mortality was higher (P < .05) in dogs with neoplasia (56.2%) vs immune-mediated disease (20.5%) or tissue damage/necrosis (19%). Weight (P = .001, r = -0.14) and total neutrophil count (P = .04, r = -0.02) were weakly negatively associated with survival whereas DOH was weakly positively associated with survival (P = .03, r = 0.14). CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE: Mortality in dogs with ENL is high but differed according to DC. Only weak correlations between clinical or clinicopathologic variables and mortality were identified. Extreme neutrophilic leukocytosis should be interpreted in conjunction with the underlying disease process, and not broadly used to predict clinical outcome.

Elective ovariohysterectomy or castration can proceed in shelter dogs despite mild to moderate presurgical leukocytosis.

OBJECTIVE: To determine whether shelter dogs presenting for elective ovariohysterectomy or castration have leukocytosis, whether leukocytes are associated with age and infection, and whether leukocytosis precludes progression to surgery. ANIMALS: 138 dogs (from 13 regional shelters) presented for ovariohysterectomy or castration between October 7 and December 6, 2019. PROCEDURES: For this prospective study, each dog underwent presurgical physical examination, CBC, and tests for Dirofilaria immitis antigen and Anaplasma phagocytophilum, Borrelia burgdorferi, and Ehrlichia canis antibodies, with additional tests performed as needed. Dogs were aged by dentition as juvenile (< 3 or ≥ 3 to ≤ 6 months) or adult (> 6 months). Leukogram results were compared across age groups with recognized infections and parasitism and with dogs' progression to surgery. RESULTS: There were 34 dogs < 3 months old, 22 dogs ≥ 3 to ≤ 6 months old, and 82 > 6 months old. Sixty-three of 138 (45.6%) dogs had leukocytosis (median, 16,500 cells/µL; range, 13,700 to 28,300 cells/µL). Dogs < 3 months of age had higher median leukocyte and lymphocyte counts (14,550 cells/µL and 3,700 cells/µL, respectively) than dogs > 6 months of age (12,500 cells/µL and 2,400 cells/µL, respectively). Only 1 dog had a stress leukogram. Forty-seven dogs had recognized infection, but there was no association with leukocytosis. Surgery proceeded successfully for all dogs with leukocytosis. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Mild to moderate leukocytosis is common before elective surgery in shelter dogs, but surgery can proceed safely. A CBC should be reserved for ill-appearing dogs rather than as a screening test, and age-specific reference intervals should be considered.

Neutrophilic leucocytosis induced by granulocyte colony-stimulating factor and interleukin-6 in canine primary lung adenocarcinoma.

BACKGROUND: Neutrophilic leucocytosis as a paraneoplastic syndrome may occur in dogs with lymphoma, renal carcinoma, rectal polyps and metastatic fibrosarcoma. However, the information on canine lung adenocarcinoma with neutrophilic leucocytosis is lacking. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to describe the clinical features and cytokine profiles of canine patients with primary lung adenocarcinoma and neutrophilic leucocytosis. METHODS: Two dogs (cases #1 and #2), each with a solitary lung adenocarcinoma, were included. Both cases had leucocytosis and underwent lung lobectomy. The resected tumours were analysed for the expression of granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF), granulocyte macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) and interleukin-6 (IL6) by quantitative real-time PCR compared with normal lung tissues. RESULTS: At the initial examination, neither patient had any clinical signs or fever. White blood cell count (WBC) was 58,300/µl and 32,900/µl in cases #1 and #2, respectively. The gene expression of G-CSF increased 6.7-and 19.7-fold in cases #1 and #2, respectively. The gene expression of IL6 markedly increased (30-fold) in case #1, whereas it increased slightly (1.9-fold) in case #2. On the other hand, that of GM-CSF was slightly changed in both cases. The WBC count postoperatively decreased to within the normal range in both cases. The postoperative survival times were 347 and 118 days in cases #1 and #2, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: This study describes G-CSF and IL6 producing lung adenocarcinoma associated with neutrophilic leucocytosis in dogs. Canine patients with pulmonary adenocarcinomas that have elevated G-CSF and IL6 levels may have a guarded prognosis. Further investigations are needed to clarify the prognosis of canine cytokine-producing lung adenocarcinoma.

Retrospective evaluation of hyperproteinorrachia without pleocytosis (albuminocytologic dissociation) and survival in dogs.

BACKGROUND: Hyperproteinorrachia (raised cerebrospinal fluid total protein [CSF-TP]) without pleocytosis (HP) (also known as albuminocytologic dissociation) is identified in dogs with different neurologic diseases. However, the association between survival and increased CSF-TP is unknown. OBJECTIVES: (a) Identify conditions commonly associated with HP in dogs and (b) investigate whether higher CSF-TP concentrations or other relevant factors are associated with 1-year survival. METHODS: This is a retrospective study that identified dogs with HP (Cisternal CSF-TP >0.30 g/L, Lumbar CSF-TP >0.45 g/L with total nucleated cell concentrations [TNCCs] and RBC counts within RIs) from 2008 to 2019: recording signalment, weight, vital parameters, inflammation, neuroanatomic localization, CSF-TP, sampling site, final diagnosis, etiologic classification, and 1-year survival. Corrected CSF-TP was calculated as CSF-TP minus 0.3 (cisternal) or 0.45 (lumbar or unknown). Descriptive statistics were produced, CSF-TP differences between groups (eg, neuroanatomic localizations) were evaluated using the Mann-Whitney U test or Kruskal-Wallis test (post-hoc testing). The Cox proportional hazards model was used for survival data. Statistical significance was set at a P < 0.05. RESULTS: In all, 39 dogs had HP, associated with 17 conditions, including neoplasia (n = 6), meningoencephalitis of unknown origin (n = 4) (MUO), and intervertebral disc disease (n = 4) (IVDD) as the most common conditions. There was no significant difference between the CSF-TP/corrected CSF-TP between 1-year survivors and non-survivors, nor was there a difference between different neuroanatomic localizations or etiologic classifications (P > 0.05). Neoplasia, after adjustment for age, was the only variable associated with a worse survival (P = 0.01 HR: 2.08 (95% CI: 1.65-39.2). CSF-TP was not associated with age (P > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS: HP in dogs is associated with a wide range of conditions; the most common conditions are neoplasia, MUO, and IVDD. Higher CSF-TP levels do not correlate with a worse 1-year survival; however, they do correlate with neoplastic lesions.

Hematology of the keeled box turtle (Cuora mouhotii).

A healthy adult, intact female keeled box turtle (Cuora mouhotii) was found to have a marked heterophilic leukocytosis using normal hematologic parameters established for the eastern box turtle (Terrapene carolina carolina), a related chelonian species. This animal was monitored with serial complete blood counts (CBCs) over the next 15 years despite remaining asymptomatic for an infectious condition. Retrospective CBC data were compiled from 38 presumably healthy keeled box turtles to establish hematologic values for comparison in this species. Using this species-specific data, over the 15-year period, the female keeled box turtle had two times where the white blood cell (WBC) count was greater than 2 standard deviations (SD) above the mean, six times where the WBC count was greater than 1 SD above the mean, six times where the PCV was greater than 2 SD above the mean, and eight times where the PCV was greater than 1 SD above the mean. Infection and inflammation are the most common causes of leukocytosis in reptiles; however, given the clinical presentation of this patient, it was postulated that these clinicopathologic changes could be secondary to a stress response. Establishing reference intervals and understanding how stress impacts CBC parameters are important for evaluating the health status of keeled box turtles kept in captivity and for assessing the effects of environmental changes on the health status of wild populations of this endangered chelonian species.