Surgical management of squamous cell carcinoma of the canine male external genitalia: 15 cases (1994-2020).

Fifteen male dogs with squamous cell carcinoma of the external genitalia were admitted for further investigation and surgical management between 1994 and 2020. The dogs belonged to various breeds. Thirteen dogs were intact and two were castrated with a median age of 8 years and a median weight of 28 kg. Seven dogs were white-coated and eight nonwhite coated. Scrotal ablation and orchiectomy were performed in four dogs, partial penile amputation in two, partial penile amputation plus partial preputial ablation in one, penile amputation, and scrotal urethrostomy in seven, and local preputial excision in one dog. Postoperative complications included hemorrhage in 10 dogs, bruising at the urethrostomy site in seven, and urethrostomy dehiscence in one dog. Tumor recurrence was recorded in six dogs. Dogs with poorly differentiated tumors that had tumor recurrence had shorter survival and worse prognosis compared to those with well and moderately differentiated tumors. The mean survival time was 48.132 months. After a median follow-up of 23 months (range: 8 to 72 months), eight dogs were alive, five were euthanized and two dogs died from unrelated causes. Surgical excision seems to be a treatment option for dogs with squamous cell carcinoma of the external genitalia.

Cutaneous Canine Mast Cell Tumor: The Use of Proliferative Markers (Ki-67 and Ki-67 × AgNOR) in Cytological Samples for Diagnosis and Prognosis.

A cytological grading system for canine mast cell tumors (MCTs) has been developed, but its integration into clinical routine has been hindered due to its diagnostic limitations. The aim of this study was to assess the prognostic value of Ki-67 and argyrophilic nucleolar organizing region (AgNOR) markers in cytological MCT samples and to determine cut-off values for these markers in correlation with histopathological grading. Cytological samples were collected prior to surgical excision, and histopathological samples were obtained postsurgery from 45 dogs diagnosed with cutaneous mast cell tumors (MCTs). The cytological specimens were classified using a two-tier grading system, and their Ki-67 (average immunopositive nuclei per 100 cells) and AgNOR (average AgNOR counts per 100 nuclei) signaling was assessed. Through receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis, cut-off values for Ki-67 and Ki-67 × AgNOR were determined to better align with histopathological grading (classified as low or high grade according to Kiupel's scoring system). Without the inclusion of proliferative markers, there was a 73% agreement between cytological and histopathological grading. The prediction of histopathological grade was slightly more accurate when assessing Ki-67 and Ki-67 × AgNOR signaling in cytological specimens (75% and 80%, respectively) compared to the initial cytological grading. The cytological assessment of canine MCTs proves beneficial for the initial evaluation, and the incorporation of the evaluation of Ki-67 and AgNOR markers may assist in identifying diagnostically highly malignant MCTs.

Use of a semitendinosus myocutaneous flap for the coverage of hindlimb full-thickness skin defects in cats.

BACKGROUND: The management of feline hindlimb full-thickness skin defects is challenging. On the other hand, the use of a semitendinosus (ST) myocutaneous flap for their coverage has not been reported. OBJECTIVES: To describe the ST flap and compare it with second intention healing for managing hindlimb full-thickness skin defects. METHODS: In 12 purpose-bred laboratory domestic short-haired cats, two wounds were made on each tibia. The wounds in group A (n = 12) were covered with ST flaps, and those in group B (n = 12) were left to heal by second intention. In both groups, clinical assessment scoring and planimetry were performed between one-30 d postoperatively. Computed tomography-angiography (CTA) was performed on days zero, 10, and 30, and histological examinations were performed on days zero and 14 and at 6 and 12 mon postoperatively. RESULTS: Statistically significant differences in the clinical assessment scores were observed between groups A and B on days 14 (p = 0.046) and 21 (p = 0.016). On the other hand, the time for complete healing was similar in the two groups. CTA revealed significant differences in the muscle width (day 0 compared to days 10 and 30 [p = 0.001, p = 0.026, respectively], and days 10 to 30 [p = 0.022]), ST muscle density, and the caliber of the distal caudal femoral artery and vein (day 0 compared to day 10 [p < 0.001], and days 10 to 30 [p < 0.001]). Histologically significant differences in inflammation, degeneration, edema, neovascularization, and fibrosis were observed on day 14 compared to zero and 6 mon, but no differences were found between the time interval of 6 and 12 mon. CONCLUSIONS: An ST flap can be used effectively to manage hindlimb full-thickness skin defects.

Τhe Effect of Opioid Administration on Cytologic and Histopathologic Diagnosis of Canine Cutaneous Mast Cell Tumors Treated by Surgical Excision.

Mast cell tumor (MCT) is a frequent cutaneous tumor in dogs, with a variable biological behavior. Studies correlate cytologic and histopathologic features of MCTs with their biological behavior, prognosis, and response to treatment. The use of preoperative opioids is common in canine patients undergoing surgical removal of these tumors. Certain opioids can induce or downregulate mast cell degranulation and influence cancer progression. The aim of the present study was to investigate whether the administration of morphine or butorphanol during surgical excision of canine cutaneous MCTs affects their cytologic and histopathologic appearance, thus influencing cytologic and histopathologic grading. This was a prospective, blinded, randomized, cohort clinical study. Forty-five dogs with cutaneous MCTs were randomly allocated into three groups according to preanaesthetic medication: dexmedetomidine combined with morphine (group M) or butorphanol (group B) or normal saline (group C). Cytologic specimens and histopathologic samples were obtained both prior to and after surgery. Samples were graded according to Kiupel's and Patnaik's systems, examined immunohistochemically for Ki-67 protein (Ki-67) and c-kit proto-oncogene product (KIT) expression, and histochemically for argyrophilic nucleolar organizing regions (AgNORs). Based on both Kiupel's and Patnaik's systems, no statistically significant differences were noted concerning the number of cases with grading discrepancies in grades allocated prior to versus after surgery among the groups. The same applied for cytological grading and immunohistochemical and histochemical evaluation. It seems that administration of morphine or butorphanol as part of the preanesthetic medication for surgical removal of canine cutaneous mast cell tumors does not influence histopathologic and cytologic grading of MCTs.

Effect of major versus minor mastectomy on host immunity in canine mammary cancer.

Surgical procedures can affect host immunity proportionally to the extent of surgical trauma. In cancer cases, surgery-induced immunosuppression can potentially promote tumour metastasis. The aim of this study was to investigate, in bitches with malignant mammary tumours, whether major surgery (total unilateral mastectomy or bilateral regional mastectomy) has a more negative effect than minor surgery (unilateral regional mastectomy) on components of host immunity. Twenty bitches with mammary cancer of clinical stage II or III were allocated to group A (minor surgery) or group B (major surgery) of 10 animals each receiving the same anaesthetic protocol for mastectomy. Immune cell measurements in blood [number of leukocytes, neutrophils, lymphocytes and platelets, and relative percentages of T-lymphocytes (CD3+) and their CD4+, CD8+ and CD5low+ subpopulations] were performed before anaesthesia (day 0) and on days 3 and 10 post-mastectomy. On day 3, leukocytes, neutrophils and platelets numbers were higher (p = 0.016, 0.032 and 0.017, respectively) in group B than in group A. For all 20 bitches, T-lymphocytes and the CD4+, CD5low+ T-cells were significantly decreased on day 3, but no significant differences were noted between groups. Minor mastectomy seemed to preserve innate immunity better than major mastectomy, but cellular immunity was rather equally affected.

Effect of anaesthesia on cell-mediated immunity in dogs undergoing mastectomy for mammary cancer.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate if anaesthesia for canine cancer mastectomy further influences host cell-mediated immunity (CMI) promoting cancer progression. STUDY DESIGN: A randomized, controlled, blinded clinical study. ANIMALS: A total of 20 bitches with malignant mammary tumours of clinical stage II or III undergoing the same type of mastectomy (regional mastectomy). METHODS: Dogs were randomly allocated to one of two anaesthetic groups (10 per group). The anaesthetic protocol of group A used minimally immunosuppressive drugs (tramadol, robenacoxib, propofol), whereas that of group B (control) used more immunosuppressive drugs (morphine, fentanyl, thiopental, isoflurane). For each animal, measurements of white blood cells (WBCs), neutrophils and lymphocytes, and flow cytometric assessment of T cells (CD3+), helper T cells (CD4+), cytotoxic T cells (CD8+) and CD5low+ T cells were performed prior to anaesthesia (day 0) and on days 3 and 10 postsurgery. Data were analysed using a General Linear Model for repeated measures and presented as mean ± standard deviation, p ≤ 0.05. RESULTS: In all animals, on day 3, WBCs and neutrophils were significantly increased (p < 0.0005), while flow cytometry revealed significantly decreased relative percentages of T cells (CD3+) (p = 0.003) and their subpopulations CD4+ (p = 0.006), CD8+ (p = 0.029) and CD5low+ (p = 0.031). Specifically, on day 3, the cytotoxic T cells (CD8+) were significantly decreased (p = 0.05) only in group B, whereas the CD4+ (p = 0.006) and CD5low+ (p = 0.008) T cells in group A. The only significant difference between groups was found preoperatively in the CD4+/CD8+ ratio, which was higher in group A (p = 0.006). CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: In dogs with mammary cancer undergoing regional mastectomy, a significant decrease in components of CMI was observed on day 3 postsurgery in both anaesthetic groups. Some indication, however, for better preserved cellular immunity by less immunosuppressive anaesthetic/analgesic drugs was detected, rendering their use advisable.

Beneficiary Effect of Fibrin Glue on Healing of Ileoileal Anastomoses in Rats.

BACKGROUND/AIM: Intestinal anastomosis' integrity is crucial in surgery. This study aimed to investigate whether fibrin glue (FG) (a fibrin sealant containing human factor XII and fibrinogen) has a positive effect on the healing and the integrity of the ileoileal anastomosis in rats. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Twenty Wistar rats underwent enterotomy, ileoileal anastomosis and divided into four groups (A: complete anastomosis-no FG, B: complete anastomosis-FG, C: incomplete anastomosis-no FG, D: incomplete anastomosis-FG). Data included leak, adhesions, bursting pressure of the anastomosis, neoangiogenesis, and hydroxyproline levels. RESULTS: Angiogenesis was significantly higher in group B compared to group A (p=0.019). There were no significant differences between groups A and B regarding adhesions, hydroxyproline, and bursting pressure (p=0.500, p=0.158 and p=0.829, respectively). Hydroxyproline levels were higher in group D compared to C, but did not reach significance (p=0.098). CONCLUSION: Fibrin glue has a positive effect on ileoileal anastomoses. It is not entirely clear whether this effect is due to mechanical support or to the facilitation of the healing process or both. Further research is needed before FG can be applied to humans.

Congenital Unilateral Ureteral Stenosis With Hydronephrosis in a Kitten.

A 4-month-old, intact male, domestic longhair cat was admitted with a 2-month history of abdominal distention. Physical examination revealed a mild inspiratory distress and a large palpable intraabdominal mass, in an otherwise bright and alert cat. Abdominal ultrasonography revealed a large hypoechoic cystic structure compatible with hydronephrosis or a renal cyst. On exploratory celiotomy, hydronephrosis of the right kidney was documented and ureteronephrectomy was performed. Histopathology of the excised tissues revealed severe stenosis in the proximal ureteral lumen without evidence of obstructive material, a normal ureteral epithelium and severe atrophy of the renal cortex and medulla, supporting the diagnosis of congenital unilateral ureteral stenosis. The cat recovered uneventfully and 8 months later was in excellent clinical condition. Congenital ureteral stenosis with secondary hydronephrosis may occur rarely in cats and should be included in the differential diagnosis of progressive abdominal distention in young cats.

Circulating and bone marrow myeloid cells containing Leishmania amastigotes in a case of advanced canine leishmaniosis.

A 5-y-old male Poodle mix was presented with intermittent vomiting, anorexia, and weight loss. Physical examination revealed emaciation, lethargy, dehydration, hypothermia, respiratory distress, and splenomegaly. Based on clinicopathologic, serologic, and parasitologic findings, diagnoses of severe leishmaniosis and dirofilariasis were made. Extracellular, intraneutrophilic, and intramonocytic Leishmania amastigotes were observed on blood smear and buffy coat smear examination. In blood smears, 0.2% of neutrophils were observed to be infected; in buffy coat smears, 0.5% of neutrophils and 0.1% of monocytes were found to be infected. Leishmania amastigotes were also found engulfed by eosinophils and neutrophil precursors in bone marrow aspiration cytology. The detection of Leishmania amastigotes in blood smears is rare, and the clinical significance is uncertain. In circulating blood, Leishmania amastigotes are primarily found phagocytized by neutrophils. Although debatable, there is growing evidence that neutrophils are used as carriers enabling the "silent entry" of the protozoa into macrophages ("Trojan horse" theory). To date, cytologic screening of blood smears for the diagnosis of canine leishmaniosis is not a routine practice. Clinical pathologists and practitioners should be aware that Leishmania amastigotes may be present in neutrophils and less frequently monocytes during blood smear evaluation; neutrophil precursors and eosinophils may also be parasitized in bone marrow specimens.

Development of real-time PCR-based methods for the detection of enzootic nasal tumor virus 2 in goats.

Enzootic nasal adenocarcinoma (ENA) is a contagious neoplasm of sheep and goats, associated with the oncogenic retroviruses enzootic nasal tumor virus (ENTV) 1 and 2, respectively. It appears to be common in countries with substantial small ruminant-production. ENA diagnosis in goats is based on autopsy and histopathology, and there is no real-time PCR method available for ENTV-2 detection. Here, a novel one-tube real-time RT-PCR (RT-qPCR) method for the detection and quantification of ENTV-2 in nasal swabs is presented. The method targets the env gene/U3 region. For the design of ENTV-2-specific oligonucleotides, molecular characterization of seven Greek ENTV-2 strains was performed. Phylogenetic analysis revealed three distinct phylogenetic clades of ENTV-2 that correlate with the country of sample collection. Evaluation of the analytical performance of the RT-qPCR revealed an amplification efficiency of 92.8% and a linear range of quantification between 2 × 108 and 2 × 102 RNA transcripts. Analysis of nasal swabs from 23 histopathologically confirmed, naturally occurring ENA cases via RT-qPCR yielded positive results. Moreover, modification of the method for use in a real-time PCR (qPCR) assay enables detection of proviral DNA in tumor specimens. Both methods are highly specific and can be used for the confirmation of ENA-suspected cases. Future applications could include ante-mortem diagnosis, verification of the ENTV-2-free status in animal trade, disease surveillance, and control programs.

Evaluation of blood T-lymphocyte subpopulations involved in host cellular immunity in dogs with mammary cancer.

Cancer-bearing patients are often immunosuppressed. In dogs with mammary or other cancers, various alterations in blood cell populations involved in host cellular immunity have been reported; among these cell populations some T-lymphocyte subsets play an important role against cancer. The purpose of the present study was to investigate any alterations in circulating T-lymphocyte subpopulations involved in cellular immunity in bitches with mammary cancer, in comparison to age-matched healthy intact bitches. Twenty eight dogs with mammary cancer and 14 control dogs were included in this study. Twelve out of the 28 bitches had mammary cancer of clinical stage II and 16/28 of stage III. Histological examination revealed that 23/28 animals had carcinomas, 3/28 sarcomas and 2/28 carcinosarcomas. White blood cell, neutrophil and lymphocyte absolute numbers were measured by complete blood count. Furthermore, blood T-lymphocyte population (CD3+) and the subpopulations CD4+, CD8+ and CD5low+ were assessed by flow cytometry. White blood cell and neutrophil but not lymphocyte absolute numbers were higher (P=0.003 and P=0.001, respectively) in cancer patients than controls. Flow cytometric analysis revealed that the relative percentage of T-lymphocytes (CD3+) and of CD4+, CD8+ subpopulations was lower (the CD4+/CD8+ ratio was higher), whereas the percentage of CD5low+ T-cells was higher, in dogs with cancer compared to controls; however, a statistically significant difference was found only in the case of CD8+ T-cells (P=0.014), whereas in the case of the CD4+/CD8+ ratio the difference almost reached statistical significance (P=0.059). Based on these findings, it can be suggested that, although the absolute number of blood lymphocytes is unchanged, the relative percentages of T-lymphocyte subpopulations involved in host cell-mediated immunity are altered, but only cytotoxic CD8+ T-cells are significantly suppressed, in dogs with mammary cancer of clinical stage II or III compared to age-matched healthy controls.

Nodular granulomatous glossitis as the sole clinical sign in canine leishmaniosis.

A 5.5-year-old, intact male Rottweiler dog was admitted with a history of multifocal nodular tongue lesions which progressively deteriorated during the previous year. Physical examination revealed several reddish nodules with central depression on the surface of the tongue in an otherwise healthy dog. Clinicopathologic abnormalities included eosinophilia and hyperproteinemia. Lingual nodule cytopathology, histopathology, and immunohistochemistry revealed Leishmania spp. amastigotes and a severe granulomatous glossitis. The dog was also seroreactive to L infantum antigens by an indirect immunofluorescence assay. Clinical reevaluation 3 months after the institution of treatment with allopurinol and miltefosine indicated that the nodular lesions had completely regressed. In endemic areas, lingual nodular lesions may rarely be the sole clinical sign of canine leishmaniosis. Standard medical treatment may provide an excellent prognosis.

First evidence of the European wildcat (Felis silvestris silvestris) as definitive host of Angiostrongylus chabaudi.

Angiostrongylus chabaudi (Strongylida, Angiostrongylidae) is a parasitic nematode described for the first time last century from the pulmonary arteries of six European wildcats (Felis silvestris silvestris) in central Italy. Since then, this parasite remained practically unknown until recently, when immature A. chabaudi have been reported from one wildcat in Germany and two domestic cats (Felis silvestris catus) in Italy. The present report describes the first record of A. chabaudi in Greece and, most importantly, the first known case of patent infection by A. chabaudi. The necropsy of a road-killed F. s. silvestris found near the lake Kerkini, in the municipality of Serres (Macedonia, Greece), revealed the presence of nematodes of both sexes in the right ventricle and the pulmonary artery of the heart. All parasites were mature adults and numerous eggs were present in the uteruses of females. The morphological characteristics of the parasites were consistent with those of A. chabaudi. Moreover, Angiostrongylus-like first stage larvae (L1) were present in the faeces of the animal that was negative for any other cardio-pulmonary parasite. Genetic examination of adult parasites and L1 confirmed the morphological identification as A. chabaudi. Histopathological examination of the lungs showed severe, multifocal to coalescing, chronic, interstitial granulomatous pneumonia due to the presence of adult parasites, larvae and eggs. These findings demonstrate for the first unequivocal time that this nematode reproduces in the European wildcat which should be ultimately considered a definitive host of A. chabaudi. Finally, the L1 of A. chabaudi are described here for the first time, opening new prospects for further studies on this neglected parasite.

Regurgitations in a Lamb with Acute Coenurosis-A case Report.

Coenurosis is a disease of the central nervous system in sheep, caused by Coenurus cerebralis, the larval stage of Multiceps multiceps, which inhabits the small intestine of Canidae. A case of regurgitations in a 2.5 month old lamb with acute coenurosis is being reported. The lamb was presented with a sudden onset of ataxia and regurgitations for 10 days. The post-mortem examination revealed 4 immature C. cerebralis cysts between 0.5 and 1.5 cm in diameter located in the brainstem and cerebellum, and histopathological examination revealed multifocal pyogranulomatous meningoencephalitis, so a diagnosis of acute coenurosis was established. Thus, acute coenurosis should be included in the differential diagnosis of regurgitations in lambs.

Pathological evaluation of reproductive system of porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus-vaccinated and nonvaccinated anestrus sows and gilts.

The purpose of the study was to evaluate pathologically the reproductive system of nonvaccinated and porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV)-vaccinated sows/gilts, as well as the assessment of vaccination impact on their endometrium/myometrium and ovaries. In a farrow-to-finish farm, all sows and gilts were systematically vaccinated with a PRRSV-inactivated vaccine for a period of 18 months. During the last semester before the beginning of the trial, the genital organs (uterus and ovaries) from 50 females (nonvaccinated primiparous and multiparous sows that did not exhibit signs of estrus until 10 days post-weaning) were collected at the slaughterhouse for gross and microscopic examination (parity 1 to >6). Respectively, during the following three semesters after the implementation of the experimental PRRSV vaccination scheme, the genital organs from 75 vaccinated sows-25 samples taken along the period of each semester-were also collected. Gross examinations included measurements of uterine horn (thickness and diameter) and ovaries (diameter). Microscopic examination focused on histopathological examination of ovarian cysts or other cystic formations and evaluation of the endometrium and myometrium. Measurements of uterine horn's thickness/diameter and ovaries' diameter were at normal levels, and no significant differences were found on gross examination between vaccinated and nonvaccinated females. The results of histopathological examinations did not show lesions of endometritis or myometritis, but revealed ovarian cystic formations with a diameter of >2 cm that were luteinizing cysts. The presence of these luteinizing cysts was significantly lower in PRRSV-vaccinated animals, compared to nonvaccinated, three semesters (p=0.017) after the start of vaccinations and for the total trial period (p=0.009).

The effect of the stage of the ovarian cycle (anoestrus or dioestrus) and of pregnancy on the incidence of gastro-oesophageal reflux in dogs undergoing ovariohysterectomy.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the potential association of increased blood progesterone (P4 ) concentrations and/or late pregnancy with the incidence of gastro-oesophageal reflux (GOR), in healthy bitches undergoing ovariohysterectomy under general anaesthesia during anoestrus or dioestrus or during the second half of pregnancy. STUDY DESIGN: Prospective observational study. ANIMALS: Ninety-four healthy, female, dogs, aged 1-8 years presented for elective ovariohysterectomy. METHODS: Non-pregnant animals were classified into group A (anoestrus) (n = 35) if blood P4 concentration was sufficiently low or group D (dioestrus) (n = 26) if blood P4 concentration was sufficiently high. All animals in the second half of pregnancy were classified into group P (n = 33). Acepromazine (0.05 mg kg(-1) ) was administered intramuscularly as preanaesthetic medication, and sodium thiopental (10 mg kg(-1) , with additional doses if needed) was administered intravenously (IV) for induction of anaesthesia. After endotracheal intubation, halothane (1.1-1.3% end-tidal concentration) in oxygen was used for maintenance of anaesthesia. Lower oesophageal pH was monitored continuously throughout surgery using a pH-measuring probe. Reflux was considered to have occurred whenever pH values of >7.5 (alkaline reflux) or <4 (acid reflux) were recorded. On completion of surgery, carprofen (4 mg kg(-1) ) was administered IV. Further administration of analgesics post-operatively was dictated by visual analogue scale pain scoring. RESULT: Acid GOR was observed in five of 26 dogs in group D, six of 35 group A, and 12 of 33 group P (p = 0.152). The incidence of GOR in group P approached statistical significance and was higher than the incidence in the combined group A + D (one sided p = 0.044, two sided p = 0.077). CONCLUSIONS: In dogs undergoing ovariohysterectomy, GOR during anaesthesia occurs with a high incidence in dogs in the second half of pregnancy compared to non-pregnant animals during anoestrus or dioestrus. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Measures could be taken in such cases to avoid the consequences of potential reflux.

A diagnostic model for histologic damage in undescended testes based on testis rigidity measurement: an experimental study with a novel device.

BACKGROUND: We aimed to test whether testis rigidity (hardness) measured using a newly-designed device we previously introduced would offer more reliable assessment of histologic damage in undescended testes than conventional methods (consistency feel at palpation, volume measurement). MATERIALS AND METHODS: Forty-five 18-d-old Lewis rats underwent surgical inhibition of descent of left testes and were followed to 40 (n = 16), 63 (n = 14), or 90 days (n = 15). Another 45 18-d-old Lewis rats were sham operated (left side) and followed likewise (n = 14, n = 15, and n = 16). At the designated time points, testes were exposed bilaterally, rigidity was measured, and consistency at palpation was scored; testes were removed and subjected to length, width, weight measurements, volume calculation, and histomorphometry (mean Johnsen score [MJS], mean tubular diameter [MTD], and mean capsule width [MCW]). Testes of experimental group were compared with ipsilateral testes of sham-operated rats. RESULTS: At all time points, undescended testes had decreased rigidity, MJS, and MTD, increased MCW, decreased volume and weight; contralateral testes remained unaffected. Rigidity was associated only with MJS and MTD, and most strongly with MJS (multiple stepwise linear regression, F = 694.44, P < 0.0005). MJS could be precisely predicted from rigidity: MJS = 0.699 × testis rigidity (F = 1358.82, P < 0.0005). This model showed good fit between predicted and actual MJS values (R(2) = 0.94), low error, nonsignificant bias, sensitivity 75% and specificity 90%. Model validation showed low prediction error and nonsignificant bias, indicating generalizability. Testis volume and palpation proved imprecise MJS predictors. CONCLUSIONS: Testis rigidity is an effective predictor of histologic damage in rat undescended testes, with diagnostic value superior to testis palpation scoring and volume measurement.

Markers of lipid peroxidation and α-tocopherol levels in the blood and neoplastic tissue of dogs with malignant mammary gland tumors.

BACKGROUND: Excess reactive oxygen species due to oxidative stress and the ensuing lipid peroxidation are believed to be involved in mammary gland tumor (MGT) pathogenesis. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the extent of lipid peroxidation as evidenced by thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances (TBARS) formation, and the concentration of α-tocopherol as an inhibitor of lipid peroxidation, in blood and neoplastic tissue of dogs with malignant MGT. The correlation between inflammatory cell infiltration score and TBARS or α-tocopherol in MGT was also evaluated. METHODS: Sixteen intact female dogs with malignant MGT and 12 clinically healthy and age/weight-matched controls were included in the study. In all dogs, serum TBARS, α-tocopherol, total cholesterol, and triglycerides were measured. Tissue TBARS and α-tocopherol levels were determined in 1 cm(3) sized tissue samples collected from MGT and adjacent, ipsilateral, normal mammary gland tissue from the 16 affected dogs. The degree of inflammatory cell tumor infiltration was evaluated histologically. RESULTS: There were no statistically significant differences in serum levels of TBARS, α-tocopherol, total cholesterol, and triglycerides between dogs with and without malignant MGT. TBARS were significantly higher, whereas α-tocopherol was lower in neoplastic tissue when compared with normal mammary gland tissue. There was no correlation between TBARS or α-tocopherol concentration and the inflammatory cell infiltration score in neoplastic tissue. CONCLUSION: The increased level of TBARS suggests oxidative stress induction in canine malignant MGT. The origin of this phenomenon is not clear, as a potential oxidative burst could not be attributed to inflammatory cells infiltrating the tumors.

Intraoperative facet joint injury during anterior cervical discectomy and fusion: an experimental study.

OBJECT: Disorders of the cervical spine can be successfully addressed by surgical intervention when the choice of such intervention takes into account the possible complications in the treated and adjacent structures. The aim of this study was to investigate the potential for intraoperative trauma in cervical zygapophysial joints and to describe possible pathological changes that may occur during cervical spine surgery. METHODS: Fifteen sheep underwent surgical intervention via an anterior cervical approach; discectomy at the C5-6 level was performed. In 10 animals, the discectomy was accompanied by titanium cage fusion. The sheep were killed immediately after completion of the operation. Radiological examination of the isolated cervical spines followed. Furthermore, the cervical spines were submitted to decalcification and incised using a microtome, and tissue sections were then studied using light microscopy. RESULTS: Radiological examination was used to assess vertebral alignment, vertebral body (VB) morphology, implant position, and endplate and facet joint gross morphology. Histological examination of the endplate and VB demonstrated degenerative lesions as well as cellular necrosis. The study of the facet joints at the treated as well as at adjacent segments (both above and below) revealed in some cases edema between the collagen fibers of the joint capsules, congestion, and microhemorrhages. Injuries were evident in animals in which the Caspar device was used. CONCLUSIONS: Histopathologically confirmed lesions occurred in facet joints while anterior cervical spine surgery was being performed in sheep. The findings were indicative of trauma and, in the case of human spine surgery, could possibly account for several postoperative complications and patient complaints.