Sterile traumatic panniculitis in a captive Brent goose.

A captive, adult female Brent goose (Branta bernicla) with a history of severe feather picking by its mate, was presented with 0.5-2.5 cm skin nodules on the head and neck. Histologic examination revealed a well-delineated dermal mass that surrounded an intact feather follicle and was composed of lakes of proteinaceous fluid and fibrin with scattered foamy macrophages and multinucleate giant cells. No bacteria or fungi were identified with histology, microbial culture, or PCR. Sterile panniculitis is an infrequent finding in animals and traumatic panniculitis is rarely sterile.

Preliminary Findings of Structure and Expression of Opioid Receptor Genes in a Peregrine Falcon ( Falco peregrinus), a Snowy Owl ( Bubo scandiacus), and a Blue-fronted Amazon Parrot ( Amazona aestiva).

To further knowledge of the physiology of opioid receptors in birds, the structure and expression of the µ-, δ-, and κ-opioid receptor genes were studied in a peregrine falcon ( Falco peregrinus), a snowy owl ( Bubo scandiacus), and a blue-fronted Amazon parrot ( Amazona aestiva). Tissue samples were obtained from birds that had been euthanatized for poor release prognosis or medical reasons. Samples were taken from the brain (telencephalon, thalamus, pituitary gland, cerebellum, pons, medulla oblongata, mesencephalon), the spinal cord and dorsal root ganglions, and plantar foot skin. Messenger RNA was recovered, and reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) was performed to generate complementary DNA (cDNA) sequences. Gene structures were documented by directly comparing cDNA sequences with recently published genomic sequences for the peregrine falcon and the blue-fronted Amazon parrot or by comparisons with genomic sequences of related species for the snowy owl. Structurally, the avian µ-opioid receptor messenger RNA (mRNA) species were complex, displaying differential splicing, alternative stop codons, and multiple polyadenylation signals. In comparison, the structure of the avian κ-receptor mRNA was relatively simple. In contrast to what is seen in humans, the avian δ-receptor mRNA structure was found to be complex, demonstrating novel 3-prime coding and noncoding exons not identified in mammals. The role of the δ-opioid receptor merits further investigation in avian species.

Chondroblastic osteosarcoma of the middle ear in a guinea pig (Cavia porcellus).

A 3-year-old intact female guinea pig (Cavia porcellus) was presented for acute anorexia. Medical and surgical treatments for cystitis and ovarian cysts, respectively, did not prevent continuous weight loss. Computed tomography and histopathological analysis revealed a chondroblastic osteosarcoma of the right middle ear, which has not been reported in this species.

Ostéosarcome chondroblastique de l'oreille moyenne chez un cobaye(Cavia porcellus). Un cobaye (Cavia porcellus) femelle de 3 ans a été présentée pour une anorexie d'apparition aiguë. Malgré la prise en charge médicale et chirurgicale d'une cystite et de kystes ovariens, l'individu continuait de perdre du poids. L'examen tomodensitométrique et l'analyse histologique ont mis en évidence un ostéosarcome chondroblastique de l'oreille moyenne, ce qui n'a jamais été rapporté dans cette espèce.(Traduit par Dre Ophélie Cojean).

Diaphragmatic hernia in a pet chinchilla (Chinchilla lanigera).

A 10-year-old pet chinchilla (Chinchilla lanigera) was referred for ultrasound investigation of a thoracic mass. The mass was initially believed to be a pulmonary abscess or tumor based on radiographs and ultrasound. Cytological examination suggested the presence of a gastrointestinal structure in the thorax, and necropsy revealed a true diaphragmatic hernia subdividing the stomach into thoracic and abdominal portions.

Hernie diaphragmatique chez un chinchilla de compagnie(Chinchilla lanigera). Un chinchilla (Chinchilla lanigera) domestique mâle castré de 10 ans a été référé pour investigation échographique d'une masse thoracique. Basé sur les radiographies et l'échographie, il fut initialement pensé que la masse était un abcès ou une tumeur pulmonaire. L'analyse cytologique suggérait la présence d'une structure gastro-intestinale dans le thorax et la nécropsie a révélé une vraie hernie diaphragmatique qui divisait l'estomac en une partie thoracique et une partie abdominale.(Traduit par les auteurs).

Chylous ascites associated with abdominal trauma and intestinal resection-anastomosis in a pet ferret (Mustela putorius furo).

CASE DESCRIPTION A 10-week-old 0.73-kg (1.6-lb) castrated male domestic ferret (Mustela putorius furo) was referred for exploratory laparotomy because of pneumoperitoneum and possible septic peritonitis after being bitten by the owner's dog. CLINICAL FINDINGS Abdominal exploration revealed a large laceration of the duodenum, tears of the jejunal mesentery, and 2 small tears in the abdominal wall. Chylous abdominal effusion developed 48 hours after surgery. TREATMENT AND OUTCOME Postoperative care included supportive treatment, analgesia, and antimicrobials. An abdominal drain was placed during the laparotomy and enabled monitoring of abdominal fluid production. Enteral feeding was provided through an esophagostomy tube. The chylous fluid production rapidly decreased after treatment with octreotide was initiated, and the ferret improved. Chyloabdomen resolved after 8 days of hospitalization and medical treatment. CLINICAL RELEVANCE Findings suggested that chylous ascites can potentially develop secondary to blunt abdominal trauma in ferrets. In this ferret, chyloabdomen was successfully treated with octreotide administration and abdominal drainage.

Use of percutaneous cystolithotomy for removal of urethral uroliths in a pot-bellied pig.

A 6-month-old neutered male pot-bellied pig was presented for an obstructive urethral stone which was successfully removed by percutaneous cystolithotomy (PCCL). The pig recovered well although suspected urethral spasms and pollakiuria persisted for 2 weeks after surgery. The owner reported a good urine stream 2 months after discharge. This novel minimally invasive approach provided excellent visualization and allowed complete evaluation of the lower urinary tract. Percutaneous cystolithotomy holds great promise for the future treatment of various lower urinary tract disorders in this species.

Utilisation de la technique de cystolithotomie transcutanée pour le retrait d'un calcul urétral chez un cochon vietnamien. Un cochon vietnamien mâle castré de 6 mois a été présenté suite à un calcul urétral obstructif qui a pu être retiré par cystolithotomie transcutanée. Le cochon s'est bien remis bien qu'une pollakiurie persistante possiblement secondaire à des spasmes urétraux fut observée pendant deux semaines après la procédure. Le propriétaire a rapporté la présence d'un bon jet urinaire deux mois après la procédure. Cette nouvelle technique minimalement invasive permet une excellente visualisation et évaluation de l'ensemble du système urinaire inférieur. C'est une option thérapeutique d'avenir dans la gestion des cas d'affection du système urinaire chez cette espèce.(Traduit par les auteurs).

Diaphragmatic hernia in a pet chinchilla (Chinchilla lanigera).

A 10-year-old pet chinchilla (Chinchilla lanigera) was referred for ultrasound investigation of a thoracic mass. The mass was initially believed to be a pulmonary abscess or tumor based on radiographs and ultrasound. Cytological examination suggested the presence of a gastrointestinal structure in the thorax, and necropsy revealed a true diaphragmatic hernia subdividing the stomach into thoracic and abdominal portions.

Hernie diaphragmatique chez un chinchilla de compagnie(Chinchilla lanigera). Un chinchilla (Chinchilla lanigera) domestique mâle castré de 10 ans a été référé pour investigation échographique d'une masse thoracique. Basé sur les radiographies et l'échographie, il fut initialement pensé que la masse était un abcès ou une tumeur pulmonaire. L'analyse cytologique suggérait la présence d'une structure gastro-intestinale dans le thorax et la nécropsie a révélé une vraie hernie diaphragmatique qui divisait l'estomac en une partie thoracique et une partie abdominale.(Traduit par les auteurs).

Pneumatosis coli in a domestic ferret (Mustela putorius furo).

A 4-year-old spayed female ferret was presented with acute diarrhea and partial anorexia. Pneumatosis coli and segmental enteropathy were identified by ultrasonography and radiography. Fecal culture did not identify any pathogenic bacteria. Medical management of concurrent diseases and antibiotic therapy resulted in resolution of clinical signs and pneumatosis coli.

Pneumatose chez un furet domestique(Mustela putorius furo). Un furet femelle stérilisé âgé de 4 ans a été présenté avec une diarrhée aiguë et de l'anorexie partielle. Une pneumatose et une entéropathie segmentaire ont été identifiés par échographie et radiographie. Une culture fécale n'a pas permis de mettre en évidence une bactérie pathogène. La gestion médicale de maladies concomitantes et d'une thérapie antibiotique ont produit une résolution des signes cliniques et de pneumatose.(Traduit par Isabelle Vallières).

Glomerular filtration rate determination by computed tomography in two pet rabbits with renal disease.

CASE DESCRIPTION A 3-year-old and a 7-year-old spayed female rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) were evaluated because of digestive stasis associated with renal asymmetry. CLINICAL FINDINGS Neoplasia of the right kidney was diagnosed via cytologic analysis in the 3-year-old rabbit. Ureterolithiasis of the left kidney was diagnosed via abdominal ultrasonography in the 7-year-old rabbit. To evaluate whether unilateral nephrectomy was indicated, evaluation of glomerular filtration rate by dynamic CT (CT-GFR) was performed on both rabbits. On the basis of the functional and morphological CT-GFR results, radical nephrectomy was recommended for the rabbit with renal neoplasia whereas a more conservative approach was recommended for the other rabbit. TREATMENT AND OUTCOME The rabbit with renal neoplasia underwent radical nephrectomy without complication. The rabbit with ureterolithiasis underwent ureteral stent placement, and the renal pelvic dilatation resolved. Both rabbits maintained unremarkable serum urea and creatinine concentrations after surgery. CLINICAL RELEVANCE GFR is a highly useful and reliable variable for the evaluation of renal function but is difficult to assess with routine clinical laboratory tests. The CT-GFR technique described here was quickly performed, was technically suitable for rabbits, and provided clinically relevant information. Studies are required to establish reference values for CT-GFR in rabbits.

Cytological analysis of bronchoalveolar lavage fluid acquired by bronchoscopy in healthy ferrets: A pilot study.

The objective of this study was to investigate the normal cytological evaluation of bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid in healthy adult ferrets (N = 12). These ferrets underwent bronchoscopy and BAL using sterile saline [1.5 mL/kg body weight (BW)]. Percentage of fluid recovered, total leukocyte count, differential leukocyte count, and cell count of the epithelial lining fluid (ELF) were determined. The mean percentage of lavage volume recovered from the right lung and left lung were 67.8 ± 14.9% and 69.7 ± 20.0%, respectively. Gender (P = 0.12) and weight (P = 0.17) did not significantly affect the mean percentage of recovered volume. The mean percentage of recovered volume (P = 0.47) and the mean leukocyte count (P = 0.17) from the right and left lung were not significantly different. Macrophages were the main leukocyte component of the lavages, followed by neutrophils, lymphocytes, and eosinophils. The mean proportion of ELF in BAL fluid was 9.3 ± 3.7% v/v. Bronchoscopy is clinically useful for collecting good quality BAL samples for cytological analysis in ferrets. The leucocyte differential was established, which may help veterinarians to make better clinical decisions when treating respiratory disease. Further studies are required with a larger group in order to establish the healthy reference intervals for BAL values in ferrets.

L'objectif de la présente étude était d'examiner l'évaluation cytologique normale de fluide de lavage bronchoalvéolaire (LAB) de furets adultes en santé (N = 12). Ces furets ont subi ne bronchoscopie et un LAB avec de la saline stérile [1,5 mL/kg de poids corporel (PC)]. Le pourcentage de fluide recouvré, le nombre total de leucocytes, un comptage différentiel de leucocytes, et un compte cellulaire du liquide sécrété par l'épithélium respiratoire ont été déterminés. Les pourcentages moyens de volume de lavage recouvrés du poumon droit et du poumon gauche étaient de 67,8 ± 14,9 % et 69,7 ± 20,0 %, respectivement. Le sexe (P = 0,12) et le poids (P = 0,17) n'ont pas affecté significativement le pourcentage moyen du volume recouvré. Le pourcentage moyen de volume recouvré (P = 0,47) et de comptage leucocytaire moyen (P = 0,17) provenant du poumon droit et du poumon gauche n'étaient pas significativement différents. Les macrophages étaient les principaux leucocytes retrouvés dans les lavages, suivis par les neutrophiles, lymphocytes et éosinophiles. La proportion moyenne d'ELF dans le fluide de LBA était de 9,3 ± 3,7 % v/v. La bronchoscopie est utile cliniquement pour prélever des échantillons de LAB de bonne qualité pour l'examen cytologique chez les furets. Le différentiel des leucocytes a été établi, ce qui pourrait aider les vétérinaires à prendre de meilleures décisions cliniques lors du traitement de maladies respiratoires. Des études supplémentaires sont requises avec un plus grand groupe afin d'établir les intervalles des valeurs de référence des LAB de furets en santé.(Traduit par Docteur Serge Messier).

Tracheal Collapse in a Pekin Duck ( Anas platyrhynchos domestica).

A 5-year-old, 3.72-kg female Pekin duck ( Anas platyrhynchos domestica) was presented for acute respiratory distress, head shaking, and collapse. Similar spontaneously resolving episodes had previously occurred. Physical examination revealed severe inspiratory and expiratory dyspnea. Due to poor prognosis, euthanasia was elected. Postmortem examination revealed severe tracheal collapse involving the proximal trachea. The tracheal lumen was reduced in size by 75%. Histologic evaluation revealed ossification of the tracheal rings for approximately 60%-100% of their circumference. The bone trabecules presented characteristics of mature bone with a medullar cavity containing hematopoietic cells and adipocytes. There was also osseous metaplasia of the cartilage. In the lamina propria, there was lymphocytic infiltration and fibrosis, both moderate. To our knowledge, tracheal collapse has not been reported in a Pekin Duck.

Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma in an African pygmy hedgehog (Atelerix albiventris).

A cutaneous mass was surgically excised in a 4-year-old African pygmy hedgehog (Atelerix albiventris). A squamous cell carcinoma was diagnosed based on histopathological examination and local recurrence following excision is strongly suspected. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first well-documented report of a cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma in this species.

Carcinome squameux cutané chez un hérisson pygmée d'Afrique(Atelerix albiventris). Une masse cutanée a été excisée par chirurgie chez un hérisson pygmée d'Afrique âgé de 4 ans (Atelerix albiventris). Un carcinome squameux a été diagnostiqué en se basant sur un examen histopathologique et la récurrence locale est fortement soupçonnée après l'excision. À la connaissance des auteurs, il s'agit du premier rapport bien documenté d'un carcinome squameux chez cette espèce.(Traduit par Isabelle Vallières).

Comparative study of 2 surgical techniques for castration of guinea pigs (Cavia porcellus).

The objective of this study was to compare 2 surgical approaches (scrotal or abdominal) for castration of guinea pigs and to investigate post-operative infection rates with either technique. Forty-eight guinea pigs were castrated by scrotal or abdominal technique after being randomly assigned to 1 of 2 groups (n = 24). Individuals were either castrated by an experienced exotic animal surgeon (n = 12) or by an experienced small animal surgeon (n = 12). Surgical wounds were evaluated daily before euthanasia for histological evaluation 2 wks after surgery. Post-operative infection rate was significantly higher in the scrotal group than in the abdominal group, with a higher rate for the experienced small animal surgeon. Castration of guinea pigs with the abdominal technique is significantly faster and has a significantly lower post-operative infection rate than the scrotal technique.

Cette étude avait pour objectif de comparer 2 approches chirurgicales (scrotale vs abdominale) pour la castration du cobaye (Cavia porcellus). Quarante-huit cobayes ont été castrés avec la technique scrotale ou abdominale après avoir été assignés de façon aléatoire à l'un des deux groupes (n = 24). La moitié des individus ont été castrés par un chirurgien d'expérience en pratique des animaux exotiques (n = 12) et l'autre moitié par un chirurgien d'expérience en pratique des animaux de compagnie (n = 12). Les plaies de chirurgie ont été évaluées quotidiennement avant que les cobayes ne soient euthanasiés pour examen histopathologique des plaies 2 semaines post-chirurgie. La prévalence d'infection post-opératoire était significativement plus élevée avec la technique scrotale comparativement à la technique abdominale, et le taux d'infection était plus élevé pour le chirurgien d'expérience en pratique des animaux de compagnie. La castration de cobaye avec la technique abdominale est de plus courte durée et est associée à un taux d'infection post-opératoire moins élevé comparativement à la technique scrotale.(Traduit par les auteurs).

Transient diabetes mellitus in a domestic ferret (Mustela putorius furo).

A 3.5-year-old spayed female ferret, fed a diet high in refined sugar, was referred for lethargy, polyuria, polydipsia, and polyphagia. Diabetic ketoacidosis was diagnosed. Treatment included insulin therapy and a low carbohydrate diet. Diabetes mellitus resolved 54 d later, and insulin therapy was discontinued. There has been no recurrence of the diabetes mellitus.

Diabète mellitus transitoire chez un furet domestique(Mustela putorius furo). Une furette stérilisée de 3.5 ans, nourrie avec une diète riche en sucre raffiné, a été référée pour léthargie, polyuro-polydipsie et polyphagie. Un diagnostic de diabète acido-cétosique a été établi. Un traitement incluant une insulinothérapie et une diète faible en glucides a été mis en place. Le diabète s'est résolu après 54 jours et l'administration d'insuline a été arrêtée. Aucune récidive n'a été observée.(Traduit par les auteurs).

Bilateral Granulomatous and Fibrinoheterophilic Otitis Interna due to Pseudomonas aeruginosa in a Captive Little Bustard ( Tetrax tetrax ).

A captive juvenile little bustard ( Tetrax tetrax ) was presented for acute onset of right head tilt and right circling. The bird failed to respond to supportive care and systemic antibiotic therapy. A bilateral granulomatous and fibrinoheterophilic otitis interna due to Pseudomonas aeruginosa was diagnosed postmortem by histopathologic examination and bacterial culture. In bustards, Pseudomonas species have been documented in the normal bacterial flora of the oropharynx and are frequently reported in upper respiratory tract infections. This is the first report of a peripheral vestibular syndrome due to P aeruginosa otitis interna in a bustard species. Pseudomonas aeruginosa should be included as a possible cause of otitis and peripheral vestibular syndrome in bustards.

Malignant paraganglioma in a cougar (Puma concolor).

A 7½-yr-old male cougar (Puma concolor) was presented with a 2-wk history of progressive hindlimb abnormalities. An abdominal mass was palpated on physical examination. Computed tomography of the abdomen showed a mass surrounding the left ureter. A postmortem diagnosis of paraganglioma was established.

Esophageal stricture in a cougar (Puma concolor).

A 7-mo-old female cougar (Puma concolor) was presented with a 2-wk history of anorexia and a 1-wk history of regurgitation. Barium contrast esophagogram and gastroesophagoscopy revealed the presence of a segmental intraluminal esophageal stricture in the middle third of the esophagus. The stricture was potentially secondary to a previous anesthetic episode. Three endoscopic balloon dilations allowed increasing the luminal diameter to a size that enabled the cougar to eat food softened with water without any signs of discomfort or regurgitation. Two months after being discharged, the cougar was doing well, had gained weight and was eating horsemeat softened with water.

Diabetes mellitus in a nanday conure (Nandayus nenday).

A 3-year-old male nanday conure (Nandayus nenday) was presented with acute lethargy, polyuria, and polydipsia. Marked persistent hyperglycemia, glycosuria, and ketonuria were also noted. The serum insulin concentration (< 3 microU/ml) was lower than reference ranges described for other psittacine birds. Initial treatment included insulin, antibiotics, and supportive care. Insulin therapy was adjusted based on results of serial blood glucose curves. Histopathologic examination of pancreatic biopsy samples revealed normal exocrine pancreatic tissue with rare lymphoplasmocytic infiltrates and absence of pancreatic islets, suggesting atrophy of endocrine pancreatic tissue. Resolution of clinical signs and a normalized blood glucose curve were obtained after administration of long-acting insulin (0.3 IU/kg IM AM and 0.25 IU/kg IM PM). One month after initial presentation, the conure was admitted for severe dyspnea and lethargy and died despite supportive care. Histopathologic examination of the pancreas revealed nearly total depletion of the endocrine pancreas with moderate lymphoplasmocytic pancreatitis. Immunohistochemical evaluation of the remaining pancreatic islets was negative for the presence of insulin and positive for glucagon. Results of polymerase chain reaction tests for Chlamydophila psittaci performed on tissues from the liver, spleen, and lung were negative. Transmission electron microscopy did not demonstrate viruses. Clinical and pathological findings observed in this case are consistent with insulin-dependant type 1 diabetes.

Primary hyperaldosteronism in a domestic ferret with an adrenocortical adenoma.

CASE DESCRIPTION: A 6-year-old spayed female domestic ferret was evaluated because of lethargy, alopecia, pruritus, and an abdominal mass. CLINICAL FINDINGS: On initial examination, nonregenerative anemia, mild azotemia, and a large left adrenal gland mass were identified. However, deterioration of the ferret's general condition prevented excision of the mass, and dyspnea, weakness, hypertension, and severe hypokalemia developed. Plasma aldosterone concentration was >3329 pmol/L, confirming a provisional diagnosis of hyperaldosteronism. High concentrations of sex hormones were also observed, but baseline cortisol concentration was within reference limits. TREATMENT AND OUTCOME: Medical treatment included oral administration of spironolactone, potassium gluconate, leuprolide acetate, amlodipine, and benazepril. Inhalation of albuterol proved effective in reducing the dyspnea. In the following weeks, serum potassium concentration returned to within reference limits and hypertension decreased, but dyspnea persisted. Two months after initial examination, the ferret became anorectic and was euthanized. Histologic examination revealed a large left adrenal gland adenoma, progressive chronic nephropathy, severe pulmonary edema, and focal fibrosis in the left ventricle. Immunohistochemical staining of the adrenal gland mass revealed aldosterone within neoplastic adrenocortical cells. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Findings suggested that primary hyperaldosteronism should be considered as a possible cause in ferrets with hypokalemia, hypertension, and an adrenal gland mass. Early detection of aldosterone-secreting masses might allow for removal of the tumor before irreversible complications occur.

What is your diagnosis? Coelomic mass in a rock dove (Columba livia).

A 15-year-old domestic rock dove (Columbia livia) was presented to the Service de Médecine Zoologique of the Université de Montréal with a 10-day history of lethargy and chronic weight loss of 1-year duration. Ultrasonographic evaluation of the coelomic cavity revealed the presence of effusion and a well-defined mass containing variably sized hypoechoic nodules of unknown origin. Cytologic evaluation of fine-needle aspirates of the mass indicated a malignant epithelial tumor consisting of round cells arranged individually and in clusters, with large nuclei, prominent nucleoli, moderate anisocytosis and anisokaryosis, atypical mitoses, occasional binucleation and multinucleation, and large numbers of ruptured cells. A diagnosis of seminoma was established on histologic sections obtained at necropsy. The cytologic features of this tumor were similar to those of canine seminomas except for the presence of lymphocytes, which were not observed in significant numbers in cytologic smears or histologic sections. Seminoma should be included in the differential diagnosis for a space-occupying mass causing organ displacement within the coelomic cavity of a male bird.