Comparison of three methodologies for measuring intraocular pressure in healthy cats.

Background and Aim: Measuring intraocular pressure (IOP) is crucial for identifying potentially damaging changes in the eyes, including diseases as glaucoma and uveitis. This study compared intraocular pressure (IOP) measurements in cats using the Tonovet and Tonovet Plus (rebound), Tono-Pen Avia Vet (applanation), and Kowa HA-2 (Goldman's methodology applanation) tonometers. Materials and Methods: 55 healthy cats (108 eyes) were assessed through three distinct studies: An ex vivo experiment (10 eyes of five cats) to correlate IOP manometry and tonometry values and ascertain the correlation coefficient (r2); an in vivo study (10 eyes of five sedated cats) to contrast manometer and tonometer readings; and an outpatient clinical trial (80 eyes of 45 cats) to analyze only tonometer measurements. Results: The r 2 values observed in the ex vivo study were Tonovet (0.923), Tonovet Plus (0.925), Tono-Pen Avia Vet (0.877), and Kowa HA-2 (0.901). The IOP values in mmHg in the in vivo study were as follows: Manometer (16.1 ± 2.7), Tonovet (21.1 ± 3.6), Tonovet Plus (19.7 ± 7.2), Tono-Pen Avia Vet (17.6 ± 7.9), and Kowa HA-2 (16.8 ± 2.0). In the outpatient clinical study, the IOP values in mmHg were as follows: Tonovet (19.7 ± 6.6), Tonovet Plus (17.1 ± 5.4), Tono-Pen Avia Vet (16.3 ± 4.3), and Kowa HA-2 (14.5 ± 2.2). Conclusion: IOP and manometry readings were strongly correlated by all tonometers. In the clinical setting, the most and least IOP measurements were recorded using Tonovet and Kowa HA-2, respectively, stressing the importance of an IOP reference table for each tonometer in feline practice.

Comparison of strip meniscometry and Schirmer tear test results and tear film breakup time between healthy dogs and dogs with dry eye disease / Comparação entre o teste de meniscometria em tira, o teste lacrimal de Schirmer e o tempo de ruptura do filme lacrimal em cães normais e com olho seco

ABSTRACT Purpose: To compare strip meniscometry and Schirmer tear test 1 results and tear film breakup time between dogs with normal eyes and dogs diagnosed with keratoconjunctivitis sicca. Methods: One-hundred fifty-six eyes of 78 dogs, 88 normal eyes, and 68 eyes diagnosed with keratoconjunctivitis sicca were included in the study. The tests were performed in the following sequence: Schirmer tear test 1 was used to allocate the dogs to the normal or keratoconjunctivitis sicca group, followed by the strip meniscometry test and tear film breakup time measurement. Results: The results (mean ± standard deviation) of the tests in the normal group were as follows: Schirmer tear test 1, 22.75 ± 3.88 mm/min; strip meniscometry test, 10.01 ± 2.35 mm/5 sec; and tear film breakup time, 25.82 ± 5.47 sec. In the keratoconjunctivitis sicca group, the results were as follows: Schirmer tear test 1, 6.10 ± 4.44 mm/min; strip meniscometry test, 3.03 ± 2.62 mm/5 sec; and tear film breakup time, 10.78 ± 4.23 sec. The Spearman correlation coefficient in the keratoconjunctivitis sicca group was very high, with a significant difference between the strip meniscometry test and Schirmer tear test 1 (r=0.848, p<0.001), and moderate and significant between the strip meniscometry test and tear film breakup time (r=0.773, p<0.001). The cutoff for the strip meniscometry test for keratoconjunctivitis sicca was 7.0 mm/5 sec. Keratoconjunctivitis sicca was suspected when the values were <10 mm/5 sec. Conclusions: This study provided strip meniscometry test values from dogs with normal eyes and eyes with keratoconjunctivitis sicca, with high sensitivity and specificity compared with those of the Schirmer tear test 1. In the future, the strip meniscometry test may be another important quantitative test and could complement the gold standard Schirmer tear test for the diagnosis of keratoconjunctivitis sicca in dogs, an excellent animal model for the study of the disease.

RESUMO Objetivo: Comparar o teste de meniscometria em tira com o teste lacrimal de Schirmer 1 e o tempo de ruptura do filme lacrimal, em cães com olhos normais e cães com diagnóstico de ceratoconjuntivite seca. Métodos: Cento e cinquenta e seis olhos de 78 cães, 88 olhos normais e 68 olhos com diagnóstico de ceratoconjuntivite seca. Os testes foram realizados na seguinte sequência: o teste lacrimal de Schirmer 1 foi utilizado para alocar os cães no grupo normal ou no grupo ceratoconjuntivite seca, seguido pelo teste de meniscometria em tira e tempo de ruptura do filme lacrimal. Resultados: As médias e desvios-padrão para os olhos normais foram: teste lacrimal de Schirmer 1 = 22,75 ± 3,88 mm / min; teste de meniscometria em tira = 10,01 ± 2,35 mm / 5 seg; tempo de ruptura do filme lacrimal = 25,82 ± 5,47 seg; e para os olhos do grupo ceratoconjuntivite seca foram: teste lacrimal de Schirmer 1 = 6,10 ± 4,44 mm / min; teste de meniscometria em tira = 3,03 ± 2,62 mm / 5 seg; tempo de ruptura do filme lacrimal = 10,78 ± 4,23 seg. O teste de correlação de Spearman no grupo ceratoconjuntivite seca foi muito alto, com diferença significativa entre teste de meniscometria em tira e teste lacrimal de Schirmer 1 (r=0,848, p<0,001), moderada e significativa entre teste de meniscometria em tira e tempo de ruptura do filme lacrimal (r=0,773, p<0,001). O cut-off para teste de meniscometria em tira para ceratoconjuntivite seca foi identificado em 7,0 mm / 5 seg, valores abaixo de 10 mm / 5 seg podem ser considerados suspeitos para KCS. Conclusões: Este estudo forneceu valores de teste de meniscometria em tira em olhos normais e com ceratoconjuntivite seca em cães, revelando alta sensibilidade e especificidade em comparação com o teste lacrimal de Schirmer 1. No futuro, o teste de meniscometria em tira pode ser outro teste quantitativo importante e pode complementar o teste lacrimal de Schirmer padrão ouro para o diagnóstico de ceratoconjuntivite seca em cães, um excelente modelo animal para o estudo de ceratoconjuntivite seca.

Comparison of topical 0.03% tacrolimus and homologous injectable platelet-rich plasma in the treatment of keratoconjunctivitis sicca in dogs.

Background and Aim: Keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS) is predominantly an immune-mediated chronic inflammatory ocular disease that is commonly diagnosed in dogs. This study aimed to compare the conventional use of topical immunosuppressant tacrolimus 0.03% eye drops and a new therapy injectable homologous platelet-rich plasma (HPRP) into the third eyelid gland and inferior and superior palpebral conjunctiva of dogs with KCS. Materials and Methods: A total of 66 eyes from 33 dogs were evaluated. The eyes were divided into three equal groups: Negative control group, tacrolimus group (TG), and homologous platelet-rich plasma group (HPRPG). The animals were evaluated using the Schirmer's tear test-1 (STT-1), osmolarity test (OT), strip meniscometry test (SMT), tear film break-up test (TBUT), fluorescein test, lissamine green test (LGT), and cytological and histopathological analyses. Results: In TG, there was a significant increase (p < 0.05) in the STT-1 and SMT values, and goblet cell count in the palpebral conjunctiva by the end of the study. In HPRPG, 36% (four dogs) received three applications, 55% (six dogs) received two applications, and 9% (one dog) received one application before the initial ocular signs improved. There was a significant decrease (p < 0.05) in the lymphocyte and neutrophil counts of the palpebral conjunctiva in HPRPG than in TG. Both groups showed equivalent improvements in TBUT, OT, and LGT values. Conclusion: Tacrolimus 0.03% eye drops were more efficient than HPRP in increasing tear production and the number of goblet cells. However, injectable HPRP was more efficient than tacrolimus in decreasing the number of conjunctival inflammatory cells. Treatment with injectable HPRP requires an average of two to three applications, is safe and feasible, and can be used as a cheaper alternative or as an adjuvant to conventional treatment with topical immunosuppressants.

Comparison of strip meniscometry and Schirmer tear test results and tear film breakup time between healthy dogs and dogs with dry eye disease.

PURPOSE: To compare strip meniscometry and Schirmer tear test 1 results and tear film breakup time between dogs with normal eyes and dogs diagnosed with keratoconjunctivitis sicca. Methods: One-hundred fifty-six eyes of 78 dogs, 88 normal eyes, and 68 eyes diagnosed with keratoconjunctivitis sicca were included in the study. The tests were performed in the following sequence: Schirmer tear test 1 was used to allocate the dogs to the normal or keratoconjunctivitis sicca group, followed by the strip meniscometry test and tear film breakup time measurement. RESULTS: The results (mean ± standard deviation) of the tests in the normal group were as follows: Schirmer tear test 1, 22.75 ± 3.88 mm/min; strip meniscometry test, 10.01 ± 2.35 mm/5 sec; and tear film breakup time, 25.82 ± 5.47 sec. In the keratoconjunctivitis sicca group, the results were as follows: Schirmer tear test 1, 6.10 ± 4.44 mm/min; strip meniscometry test, 3.03 ± 2.62 mm/5 sec; and tear film breakup time, 10.78 ± 4.23 sec. The Spearman correlation coefficient in the keratoconjunctivitis sicca group was very high, with a significant difference between the strip meniscometry test and Schirmer tear test 1 (r=0.848, p<0.001), and moderate and significant between the strip meniscometry test and tear film breakup time (r=0.773, p<0.001). The cutoff for the strip meniscometry test for keratoconjunctivitis sicca was 7.0 mm/5 sec. Keratoconjunctivitis sicca was suspected when the values were <10 mm/5 sec. CONCLUSIONS: This study provided strip meniscometry test values from dogs with normal eyes and eyes with keratoconjunctivitis sicca, with high sensitivity and specificity compared with those of the Schirmer tear test 1. In the future, the strip meniscometry test may be another important quantitative test and could complement the gold standard Schirmer tear test for the diagnosis of keratoconjunctivitis sicca in dogs, an excellent animal model for the study of the disease.

Comparison among TonoVet, TonoVet Plus, Tono-Pen Avia Vet, and Kowa HA-2 portable tonometers for measuring intraocular pressure in dogs.

BACKGROUND AND AIM: Tonometers are an important instrument for measuring intraocular pressure (IOP) in the diagnosis of glaucoma or uveitis. This study aimed to compare the accuracy of the main types of tonometers with different IOP measurement methodologies in dogs: TonoVet and TonoVet Plus (rebound), Tono-Pen Avia Vet (applanation), and Kowa HA-2 (Goldmann applanation). MATERIALS AND METHODS: IOP was measured in 152 eyes of 76 dogs. A postmortem study was performed by comparing manometry and tonometry values and calculating the correlation coefficient (r2), in vivo real IOP (manometry) among the tonometers was compared, and an outpatient study was conducted with healthy eyes and eyes with signs of glaucoma and uveitis. RESULTS: In the postmortem study, the values of r2 in descending order were Kowa (0.989), TonoVet Plus (0.984), TonoVet (0.981), and Tono-Pen Avia Vet (0.847). The IOP values in mmHg in the in vivo study were as follows: Aneroid manometer (16.8±2.5.7), TonoVet (18.1±2.9), TonoVet Plus (20.6±2.3), Tono-Pen Avia Vet (17.1±2.5), and Kowa (16.1±1.7); in outpatient clinics: TonoVet (16.8±3.8), TonoVet Plus (19.2±2.9), Tono-Pen Avia Vet (16.2±2.4), and Kowa (15.0±1.3); glaucoma: TonoVet (30.2±3.5), TonoVet Plus (35.0±6.1), Tono-Pen Avia Vet (29.5±4.2), and Kowa (23.9±5.0); and uveitis: TonoVet (14.2±1.4), TonoVet Plus (17.6±1.9), Tono-Pen Avia Vet (13.7±2.1), and Kowa (12.6±1.7). CONCLUSION: There was a strong correlation between IOP values and manometry in all the tonometers. The highest values were obtained with TonoVet Plus and the lowest with Kowa HA-2. All tonometers accurately measured IOP in dogs, including the latest TonoVet Plus, which showed an excellent correlation coefficient.

Reduction in the inflammatory markers CD4, IL-1, IL-6 and TNFα in dogs with keratoconjunctivitis sicca treated topically with mesenchymal stem cells.

Keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS) is of predominantly immune-mediated origin. Dogs are an excellent model for understanding this disease, as the origin of KCS in dogs is like that in humans. The objective of this study was to localize and quantify immunological markers, such as CD4 lymphocytes, interleukin (IL)-1, IL-6 and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα), before and after topical treatment with mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs). Twenty-two dogs positive for KCS were topically treated with 50 µL (1 × 106 MSCs) in the conjunctival sac and were evaluated for 6 months. The levels of the markers CD4, IL-6, IL-1 and TNFα were analyzed in conjunctival biopsy and cytology of the third eyelid gland by immunohistochemistry and immunocytochemistry. The results showed that before treatment, there was marked expression of all the markers (CD4, IL-6, IL-1 and TNFα), and after 6 months, there were significant (p < .05) reductions in the expression levels of all the markers. These results demonstrated that topical MSC treatment promotes a significant decrease in the expression levels of these inflammatory markers and could be used as adjuvant therapy in the treatment of KCS in dogs and humans. In addition, these markers can be excellent tools for diagnosing and analyzing the progression of KCS.

Oral omega 3 in different proportions of EPA, DHA, and antioxidants as adjuvant in treatment of keratoconjunctivitis sicca in dogs / Ômega 3 oral em diferentes proporções de EPA, DHA e antioxidantes como adjuvante no tratamento de ceratoconjuntivite seca em cães

ABSTRACT Purpose: To compare the efficacy of 0.03% to­pical tacrolimus in combination with oral omega (ω) 3 with different ratios of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), and antioxidants as adjuvant in the treatment of keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS) in dogs. Methods: Forty-five dogs with KCS were evaluated monthly for 6 months. Evaluations included performance of the Schirmer tear, fluorescein, and lissamine green tests. Tear film break-up time (TBUT) was assessed. Conjunctival cytology was evaluated at the beginning, middle, and end of the study. Conjunctiva was biopsied at the beginning and end of the study. Dogs were randomly assigned to one of the three groups (n=15): Group T (topical tacrolimus 0.03%), Group TO (topical tacrolimus + ω-1.5 EPA: 1 DHA), or Group TOA (topical tacrolimus + ω-1 EPA:4.5 DHA + antioxidants). Results: There was a significant improvement in clinical signs in all groups. TBUT increased throughout treatment in all groups; this effect was most pronounced in Group TO. Cytological analysis performed at the end of the study period, showed decreased levels of lymphocytes, neutrophils, and metaplastic and squamous cells in Groups T, TO, and TOA. Histological analysis performed at the end of the study period showed decreased levels of lymphocytes and neutrophils and increased levels of goblet cells. These effects were most pronounced in Group TO. Conclusion: Oral treatment with ω-3 containing a higher proportion of EPA than DHA increased the effectiveness of topical tacrolimus 0.03% in the treatment of keratoconjunctivitis sicca in dogs.

RESUMO Objetivo: Comparar a eficácia do tacrolimus 0,03% tópico associado ao ômega 3 oral, com diferentes proporções de ácido eicosapentaenoico (EPA), ácidos docosa-hexaenoicos (DHA) e antioxidantes, como adjuvante no tratamento de cães acometidos por ceratoconjuntivite seca. Métodos: Quarenta e cinco cães atendidos no Hospital Veterinário da UNOESTE portadores de ceratoconjuntivite seca foram avaliados mensalmente por 6 meses pelo Teste Lacrimal de Schirmer, Teste de Fluoresceína, Tempo de Ruptura do Filme Lacrimal, Teste de Rosa Bengala, citologia da conjuntiva no início, meio e fim do projeto e biopsia da conjuntiva no início e final do projeto. Os cães foram distribuídos aleatoriamente em 3 grupos (n=15): grupo T (tacrolimus 0,03% tópico), grupo TO (tacrolimus + ômegas 1.5 EPA/1 DHA oral) e grupo TOA (tacrolimus + ômegas 1 EPA/4,5 DHA + antioxidantes oral). Resultados: Houve uma melhora significativa nos sinais clínicos em ambos os grupos. No tempo de ruptura do filme lacrimal todos os grupos apresentaram aumento no decorrer do tratamento, sendo que o grupo TO foi o que apresentou melhor resultado em todos momentos quando comparado aos demais grupos. Ao final do experimento, os grupos T, TO e TOA apresentaram na análise citológica, diminuição de linfócitos, neutrófilos, células metaplásicas e escamosas, e na análise histopatológica, diminuição de linfócitos e neutrófilos e aumento das células caliciformes, com o grupo TO com melhor desempenho. Conclusão: O tratamento oral com ω-3 contendo uma maior proporção de EPA do que o DHA aumentou a eficácia do tacrolimus tópico 0,03% no tratamento de ceratoconjuntivite sicca em cães.

Oral omega 3 in different proportions of EPA, DHA, and antioxidants as adjuvant in treatment of keratoconjunctivitis sicca in dogs.

PURPOSE: To compare the efficacy of 0.03% to-pical tacrolimus in combination with oral omega (ω) 3 with different ratios of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), and antioxidants as adjuvant in the treatment of keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS) in dogs. METHODS: Forty-five dogs with KCS were evaluated monthly for 6 months. Evaluations included performance of the Schirmer tear, fluorescein, and lissamine green tests. Tear film break-up time (TBUT) was assessed. Conjunctival cytology was evaluated at the beginning, middle, and end of the study. Conjunctiva was biopsied at the beginning and end of the study. Dogs were randomly assigned to one of the three groups (n=15): Group T (topical tacrolimus 0.03%), Group TO (topical tacrolimus + ω-1.5 EPA: 1 DHA), or Group TOA (topical tacrolimus + ω-1 EPA:4.5 DHA + antioxidants). RESULTS: There was a significant improvement in clinical signs in all groups. TBUT increased throughout treatment in all groups; this effect was most pronounced in Group TO. Cytological analysis performed at the end of the study period, showed decreased levels of lymphocytes, neutrophils, and metaplastic and squamous cells in Groups T, TO, and TOA. Histological analysis performed at the end of the study period showed decreased levels of lymphocytes and neutrophils and increased levels of goblet cells. These effects were most pronounced in Group TO. CONCLUSION: Oral treatment with ω-3 containing a higher proportion of EPA than DHA increased the effectiveness of topical tacrolimus 0.03% in the treatment of keratoconjunctivitis sicca in dogs.

Comparison of the efficacy of 0. 03% tacrolimus eye drops diluted in olive oil and linseed oil for the treatment of keratoconjunctivitis sicca in dogs / Comparação do colírio tacrolimus 0, 03% em óleo de oliva e linhaça no tratamento da ceratoconjuntivite seca em cães

ABSTRACT Objective: To compare the efficacy of 0.03% tacrolimus eye drops diluted in two different vehicles (linseed oil and olive oil) for the treatment of keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS) in dogs. Methods: This study included 60 dogs. Of this group, 20 were healthy and allocated to the control group, and 40 were diagnosed with bilateral KCS and randomly allocated to either the TO (tacrolimus in olive oil) or the TL (tacrolimus in linseed oil) groups. Ophthalmic examinations, Schirmer Tear Test-1 (STT-1), Tear Film Break-up Time (TBUT) and Fluorescein Test (FT) were carried out monthly, along with cytological and histopathological examinations at the beginning and end of the study. Results: The clinical signs, corneal ulcers, Schirmer Tear Test-1 values, and Tear Film Break-up Time values improved in both groups after one month of treatment. Cytological examination at the end of the study showed decreased lymphocytes, neutrophil, metaplastic, and squamous cell counts in both groups, while the histopathological analysis showed decreases in lymphocytes and neutrophils and an increase in goblet cell density (cells/mm2). The decreases in neutrophil count were more significant (p<0.05) in the TL group for both types of examination. Conclusion: In sum, 0.03% tacrolimus eye drops diluted in olive oil and linseed oil were effective in the treatment of keratoconjunctivitis sicca. None of the evaluated parameters differed significantly between the two groups, except for neutrophil count which was significantly lower in the TL group. Thus, linseed oil may be considered as an alternative diluent for tacrolimus eye drops.

RESUMO Objetivo: Comparar a eficácia do tacrolimus 0,03% colírio, diluído em óleo de linhaça e óleo de oliva, no tratamento de ceratoconjuntivite seca em cães. Métodos: Foram utilizados 60 cães; 20 cães saudáveis como grupo controle, e 40 cães com diagnóstico de ceratoconjuntivite seca bilateral, distribuídos aleatoriamente em dois grupos: Tacrolimus em óleo de oliva (TO) e Tacrolimus em óleo de semente de linhaça (TL). Os animais foram avaliados mensalmente com exames oftálmicos, Teste lacrimal de Schirmer-1 (TLS-1), Tempo de ruptura do filme lacrimal (TRFL) e Teste de Fluoresceína (TF), e mensalmente com citologia conjuntival e com exame histopatológico no início e final do estudo. Resultados: Nos dois grupos de tratamento os sinais clínicos, Teste lacrimal de Schirmer-1, óleo de semente de linhaça e Tempo de ruptura do filme lacrimal apresentaram melhora após um mês de tratamento. E no final do estudo, na análise citológica, ambos apresentaram diminuição de linfócitos, neutrófilos, células metaplásicas e células escamosas, e na análise histopatológica houve diminuição de linfócitos, neutrófilos e o aumento de células caliciformes. No grupo óleo de semente de linhaça, a diminuição de neutrófilos foi mais significativa (p<0,05) em ambas análises. Conclusão: Em suma, tacrolimus 0,03% colírio diluído em óleo de oliva e óleo de linhaça foram eficientes no tratamento de ceratoconjuntivite seca. Nenhum dos parâmetros avaliados diferiu significativamente entre os dois grupos, exceto a contagem de neutrófilos, que foi significativamente menor no grupo TL. Assim, o óleo de linhaça pode ser considerado como um diluente alternativo para o colírio tacrolimus.

Comparison of the efficacy of 0.03% tacrolimus eye drops diluted in olive oil and linseed oil for the treatment of keratoconjunctivitis sicca in dogs.

OBJECTIVE: To compare the efficacy of 0.03% tacrolimus eye drops diluted in two different vehicles (linseed oil and olive oil) for the treatment of keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS) in dogs. METHODS: This study included 60 dogs. Of this group, 20 were healthy and allocated to the control group, and 40 were diagnosed with bilateral KCS and randomly allocated to either the TO (tacrolimus in olive oil) or the TL (tacrolimus in linseed oil) groups. Ophthalmic examinations, Schirmer Tear Test-1 (STT-1), Tear Film Break-up Time (TBUT) and Fluorescein Test (FT) were carried out monthly, along with cytological and histopathological examinations at the beginning and end of the study. RESULTS: The clinical signs, corneal ulcers, Schirmer Tear Test-1 values, and Tear Film Break-up Time values improved in both groups after one month of treatment. Cytological examination at the end of the study showed decreased lymphocytes, neutrophil, metaplastic, and squamous cell counts in both groups, while the histopathological analysis showed decreases in lymphocytes and neutrophils and an increase in goblet cell density (cells/mm2). The decreases in neutrophil count were more significant (p<0.05) in the TL group for both types of examination. CONCLUSION: In sum, 0.03% tacrolimus eye drops diluted in olive oil and linseed oil were effective in the treatment of keratoconjunctivitis sicca. None of the evaluated parameters differed significantly between the two groups, except for neutrophil count which was significantly lower in the TL group. Thus, linseed oil may be considered as an alternative diluent for tacrolimus eye drops.

Comparison between fish and linseed oils administered orally for the treatment of experimentally induced keratoconjunctivitis sicca in rabbits.

The objective of this study was to compare the efficacy of two sources of omega 3 and 6, fish oil (FO) and linseed oil (LO), orally administered, alone or in combination, for treating experimentally induced keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS) in rabbits. Twenty-eight New Zealand rabbits were used in this study. Seven animals were allocated to the C group (negative control), and KCS was induced in 21 animals by topically applying 1% atropine sulfate drops for 7 days. Treatment with atropine was maintained throughout the study period (12 weeks). The rabbits were divided into 3 treatment groups containing 7 animals each: FO group, LO group and FLO group (FO and LO). The animals were evaluated using the Schirmer Tear Test I (STT I), Rose Bengal Test (RBT), fluorescein test (FT), tear film break-up time (TBUT), and conjunctival and histopathological analysis. There was a significant increase in STT I and TBUT values in treatment groups, but the increase occurred earlier in the FO group. The results of the RBT and FT were similar among treatment groups, except FT, in the FLO group, negative staining was only in 12 weeks. There was a significant decrease in the number of goblet cells in the FLO group compared with the other groups. The results demonstrated that orally administered of FO and LO improved the clinical signs of KCS. However, improvement occurred earlier in the FO group. Using oils in combination did not provide additional benefits. These results contribute to the future development of new oral formulations as adjuvant therapies for KCS.

Comparison of 1% cyclosporine eye drops in olive oil and in linseed oil to treat experimentally-induced keratoconjunctivitis sicca in rabbits.

PURPOSE: To evaluate the effectiveness of topical 1% cyclosporine eye drops diluted in either of the two vehicles-olive and linseed oil-and that of the oils themselves in treating experimentally-induced keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS) in rabbits. METHODS: KCS was induced in 25 New Zealand rabbits using 1% atropine sulfate eye drops for 7 days before treatment and throughout the treatment period (12 weeks). The rabbits were divided into five groups: one control (C) group without KCS induction and four treatment groups in which KCS was induced and treated topically with olive oil (O), linseed oil (L), cyclosporine in olive oil (CO), and cyclosporine in linseed oil (CL). The animals were evaluated using Schirmer tear test 1 (STT), the fluorescein test (FT), tear-film break-up time (TBUT), the rose bengal test (RBT), and histopathological analysis. RESULTS: Values of STT and TBUT significantly decreased 1 week post-induction (p<0.05) and were similar to initial values after the 4th week of treatment, in all groups. After KCS induction, there was significantly less corneal damage in group L than in group CL, as assessed FT and RBT. Histopathology demonstrated that Groups L and CL presented less edema and corneal congestion. There was no significant difference in the goblet cell density (cells/mm2) between the groups (p=0.147). CONCLUSION: Cyclosporine diluted in olive oil or linseed oil was effective in the treatment of KCS, although it had better efficacy when diluted in linseed oil. Linseed oil presented better effectiveness, whether associated or not, than olive oil. These results may contribute to the creation of novel topical ophthalmic formulations for KCS treatment in future.

Comparison of 1% cyclosporine eye drops in olive oil and in linseed oil to treat experimentally-induced keratoconjunctivitis sicca in rabbits / Comparação da ciclosporina 1% em óleo de oliva e óleo de linhaça no tratamento da ceratoconjuntivite seca experimentalmente induzida em coelhos

ABSTRACTPurpose:To evaluate the effectiveness of topical 1% cyclosporine eye drops diluted in either of the two vehicles-olive and linseed oil-and that of the oils themselves in treating experimentally-induced keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS) in rabbits.Methods:KCS was induced in 25 New Zealand rabbits using 1% atropine sulfate eye drops for 7 days before treatment and throughout the treatment period (12 weeks). The rabbits were divided into five groups: one control (C) group without KCS induction and four treatment groups in which KCS was induced and treated topically with olive oil (O), linseed oil (L), cyclosporine in olive oil (CO), and cyclosporine in linseed oil (CL). The animals were evaluated using Schirmer tear test 1 (STT), the fluorescein test (FT), tear-film break-up time (TBUT), the rose bengal test (RBT), and histopathological analysis.Results:Values of STT and TBUT significantly decreased 1 week post-induction (p<0.05) and were similar to initial values after the 4th week of treatment, in all groups. After KCS induction, there was significantly less corneal damage in group L than in group CL, as assessed FT and RBT. Histopathology demonstrated that Groups L and CL presented less edema and corneal congestion. There was no significant difference in the goblet cell density (cells/mm2) between the groups (p=0.147).Conclusion:Cyclosporine diluted in olive oil or linseed oil was effective in the treatment of KCS, although it had better efficacy when diluted in linseed oil. Linseed oil presented better effectiveness, whether associated or not, than olive oil. These results may contribute to the creation of novel topical ophthalmic formulations for KCS treatment in future.

RESUMOObjetivo:Avaliar a eficácia do uso tópico do colírio de ciclosporina 1% em dois veículos, óleo de oliva e linhaça, e dos óleos separados, no tratamento da ceratoconjuntivite seca experimentalmente induzida (KCS) em coelhos.Método:Vinte e cinco coelhos Nova Zelândia foram induzidos para KCS com colírio de sulfato de atropina a 1% por sete dias antes e durante o período de tratamento (12 semanas) e foram divididos em 5 grupos, um grupo controle (C), sem indução de KCS e quatro grupos de tratamento tópico com ciclosporina em óleo de oliva (CO), ciclosporina em óleo de linhaça (CL), óleo de oliva (O) e óleo de linhaça (L). Os animais foram avaliados utilizando o teste lacrimal de Schirmer I (STT), teste de fluoresceína (FT), teste de ruptura do filme lacrimal (TBUT), teste de rosa bengala (RBT) e análise histopatológica.Resultados:Os valores de TBUT e STT diminuíram significativamente uma semana pós-indução da KCS (p<0,05) e foram semelhantes aos valores iniciais após a quarta semana de tratamento, em todos os grupos. Após a indução de KCS, houve menor dano na córnea no grupo L em relação ao grupo CL, quando avaliados FT e RBT. A histopatologia demonstrou que os grupos L e CL apresentaram menos edema e congestão da córnea. Não houve diferença significativa na densidade das células caliciformes (células/mm2) entre os grupos (p=0,147).Conclusão:Ciclosporina diluída em óleo de oliva ou linhaça foi eficiente no tratamento da CCS, porém teve uma melhor eficácia quando diluída no óleo de linhaça. O óleo de linhaça, isoladamente ou associado, apresentou melhor eficácia quando comparado ao óleo de oliva. Estes resultados podem contribuir no futuro com novas formulações oftálmicas tópicas no tratamento da CCS.

Intraocular pressure measurements with the Tono-Pen XL® and Perkins® applanation tonometers in horses and cattle / Pressão intraocular medida com os tonômetros de aplanação Tono-Pen XL® e Perkins® em equinos e bovinos

The objective of this study was to compare the accuracy between two applanation tonometers, Tono-Pen XL® and Perkins®, in horses and cattle. The eyes of 20 horses and 20 cattle conscious and healthy were evaluated for the in vivo study and both eyes of 5 horses and 5 cattle were used as controls for the postmortem study. In conscious animals, the tonometry was performed with auriculopalpebral nerve block and then topical anesthesia for both tonometers and 1% fluorescein eye drops only for the Perkins tonometer. Readings of intraocular pressure (IOP) in the postmortem study were taken using manometry and tonometry by Tono-Pen XL® and Perkins®. The correlation coefficient (r²) between manometry and applanation tonometers Tono-Pen XL® and Perkins®, in horses, were 0.845 and 0.989, respectively, and in cattle, were 0.772 and 0.988, respectively. The mean IOP values in conscious horses with Tono-Pen XL® and Perkins® were 20.1±3.9mmHg and 20.9±3.2mmHg, respectively, and in conscious cattle, these values were 17.2±2.4mmHg and 17.9±1.4mmHg, respectively. There was a strong correlation between the IOP values obtained by direct ocular manometry and the Tono-Pen XL® and Perkins® tonometers in horses and cattle. There was no statistically significant difference between the mean IOPs obtained with both tonometers in conscious animals; however, there was a difference between the minimum values, which were on average 2-3 mmHg lower with the Tono-Pen XL® tonometer than with the Perkins® tonometer, which justifies a table of normal values differentiated for each tonometer.

O objetivo deste estudo foi comparar a acurácia entre dois tonômetros de aplanação, Tono-Pen XL® e Perkins®, em equinos e bovinos. Os olhos de 20 equinos e 20 bovinos conscientes e saudáveis foram avaliados para o estudo in vivo e ambos os olhos de 5 equinos e 5 bovinos foram usados como controle para o estudo post-mortem. Nos animais conscientes, a tonometria foi realizada com bloqueio do nervo auriculopalpebral e depois anestesia tópica para ambos os tonômetros e colírio de fluoresceína a 1% somente para o tonômetro de Perkins. Leituras da pressão intraocular (PIO) no estudo post-mortem foram realizadas utilizando manometria e tonometria pelo Tono-Pen XL® e Perkins®. O coeficiente de correlação (r²) entre a manometria e os tonômetros de aplanação Tono-Pen XL® e Perkins®, em equinos, foi de 0,845 e 0,989, respectivamente, e, em bovinos, foi de 0,772 e 0,988, respectivamente. Os valores médios de PIO nos equinos conscientes com Tono-Pen XL® e Perkins® foram 20,1±3,9mmHg e 20,9±3,2mmHg e, em bovinos conscientes, os valores foram de 17,2±2,4mmHg e 17,9±1.4mmHg, respectivamente. Houve uma forte correlação entre os valores obtidos de PIO pela manometria ocular direta e os tonômetros Tono-Pen XL® e Perkins® em equinos e bovinos. Entretanto, houve uma diferença entre os valores mínimos, em média 2-3mmHg menor com o tonômetro Tono-Pen XL® do que o tonômetro de Perkins®, o que justifica uma tabela de valores diferenciada para cada tonômetro.

Use of linseed oil to treat experimentally induced keratoconjunctivitis sicca in rabbits.

BACKGROUND: The objective of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of various linseed oil (LO) preparations (oral, topical, oral and topical combined) in treating experimentally induced keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS) in rabbits. Twenty male New Zealand white rabbits were divided into four groups: group C (control), group OLO (oral LO), group TLO (topical LO), and group OTLO (oral and topical LO). The animals were evaluated weekly using Schirmer's tear test (STT), fluorescein test (FT), and Rose Bengal test (RBT) and were euthanized at the end of the experiment for histopathological analysis. FINDINGS: There were significant improvements in the parameters analyzed (STT, FT, and RBT) and in the histopathological finding in all of the groups using LO. CONCLUSIONS: The analyzed results demonstrate that LO, administered orally or topically, was effective in treating experimentally induced KCS in rabbits, although combined oral and topical LO did not show additional benefits greater than those with a single route of administration.

Comparison of intraocular pressure measurements between the Tono-Pen XL® and Perkins® applanation tonometers in dogs and cats.

OBJECTIVE: To compare the accuracy between two applanation tonometers, Tono-Pen XL(®) and Perkins(®), in ophthalmoscopically normal dogs and cats. ANIMALS: Both eyes of 25 conscious and healthy dogs and cats were evaluated. Both eyes of five dogs and cats immediately after sacrifice were used as controls for the postmortem study. PROCEDURE: In conscious animals, the tonometry was performed with topical anesthesia using 0.5% proxymetacaine eye drops for both tonometers and 1% fluorescein eye drops for the Perkins tonometer. Readings of intraocular pressure (IOP) in the postmortem study were taken using manometry and tonometry by Tono-Pen XL(®) and Perkins(®). RESULTS: The correlation coefficient (r(2) ) in dogs between manometry and applanation tonometers Tono-Pen XL(®) and Perkins(®) were, respectively, 0.896 and 0.981 and in cats were 0.905 and 0.988. The mean IOP values in conscious dogs with Tono-Pen XL(®) and Perkins(®) were, respectively, 17.5 ± 3.7 mmHg (10.0-25.0 mmHg) and 15.3 ± 2.1 mmHg (12.0-19.8 mmHg) and in conscious cats were 16.8 ± 3.6 mmHg (10.5-24.5 mmHg) and 15.5 ± 1.3 mmHg (13.0-18.5 mmHg). CONCLUSION: There was a strong correlation between the IOP values obtained by direct ocular manometry and the Tono-Pen XL(®) and Perkins(®) tonometers in dogs and cats. There was no statistically significant difference between the mean IOP obtained with both tonometers in conscious animals, there was, however, a difference between the minimum and mainly in the maximum values that were on average 5-6 mmHg higher with Tono-Pen XL(®) than those measured with Perkins(®), which justifies a table of normal values differentiated for each tonometer.

Evaluation of the Perkins handheld applanation tonometer in horses and cattle.

The objective of this study was to evaluate and validate the accuracy of the Perkins handheld applanation tonometer for measuring intraocular pressure (IOP) in horses and cattle. Both eyes of 10 adult horses and cattle were evaluated in a postmortem study. The eyes from 10 clinically normal adult horses and cattle were also examined after bilateral auriculopalpebral nerve block and topical anesthesia for an in vivo study. IOP was measured postmortem using direct manometry (measured with an aneroid manometer) and tonometry (measured with a Perkins handheld applanation tonometer). The correlation coefficients (r(2)) for the data from the postmortem manometry and Perkins tonometer study were 0.866 for horses and 0.864 for cattle. In the in vivo study, IOP in horses was 25.1 ± 2.9 mmHg (range 19.0~30.0 mmHg) as measured by manometry and 23.4 ± 3.2 mmHg (range 18.6~28.4 mmHg) according to tonometry. In cattle, IOP was found to be 19.7 ± 1.2 mmHg (range 18.0~22.0 mmHg) by manometry and 18.8 ± 1.7 mmHg (range 15.9~20.8 mmHg) by tonometry. There was a strong correlation between the IOP values obtained by direct ocular manometry and the tonometer in both horses and cattle. Our results demonstrate that the Perkins handheld tonometer could be an additional tool for accurately measuring IOP in equine and bovine eyes.

Evaluation of the Perkins handheld applanation tonometer in the measurement of intraocular pressure in dogs and cats.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate and to validate the accuracy of the Perkins handheld applanation tonometer in the measurement of IOP in dogs and cats. ANIMALS: Twenty eyes from 10 dogs and 10 cats immediately after sacrifice were used for the postmortem study and 20 eyes from 10 clinically normal and anesthetized dogs and cats were used for the in vivo study. Both eyes of 20 conscious dogs and cats were also evaluated. PROCEDURE: Readings of IOP postmortem and in vivo were taken using manometry (measured with a mercury column manometer) and tonometry (measured with a Perkins handheld applanation tonometer). The IOP measurement with Perkins tonometer in anesthetized and conscious dogs and cats was accomplished by instillation of proxymetacaine 0.5% and of 1% fluorescein eye drops. RESULTS: The correlation coefficient (r(2)) between the manometry and the Perkins tonometer were 0.982 (dogs) and 0.988 (cats), and the corresponding linear regression equation were y = 0.0893x + 0.1105 (dogs) and y = 0.0899x + 0.1145 (cats) in the postmortem study. The mean IOP readings with the Perkins tonometer after calibration curve correction were 14.9 +/- 1.6 mmHg (range 12.2-17.2 mmHg) in conscious dogs, and were 15.1 +/- 1.7 mmHg (range 12.1-18.7 mmHg) in conscious cats. CONCLUSION: There was an excellent correlation between the IOP values obtained from direct ocular manometry and the Perkinstonometer in dogs and cats. The Perkins handheld tonometer could be in the future a new alternative for the diagnosis of glaucoma in veterinary ophthalmology.

Estudo comparativo da intoxicação experimental por amitraz entre cães e gatos / Comparative study of experimental amitraz intoxication betweendogs and cats

O objetivo do presente trabalho foi estudar as características em comum e as diferenças observadas na intoxicação induzida por 1 mg/kg de amitraz, IV, em cães e gatos. Os principais sinais clínicos observados em comum foram sedação, hipotermia, bradicardia, bradiarritmias, hipotensão, bradipnéia, midríase e hiperglicemia transitória, porém a intensidade destes sinais foi diferente entre as espécies. A hipotermia foi mais acentuada em gatos. Os cães foram mais sensíveis às alterações cardiorespiratórias apresentando diminuição mais significativa na freqüência cardíaca e respiratória, além de ocorrência de maior número de bradiarritmias. Os gatos apresentaram midríase mais prolongada do que os cães. Observou-se hiperglicemia e hipoinsulinemia transitórias e diminuição transitória dos níveis plasmáticos de cortisol em ambas espécies, porém os gatos apresentaram um pico de hiperglicemia maior e mais precoce do que os cães, e com relação aos níveis plasmáticos de cortisol, os cães apresentaram uma diminuição mais acentuada do que os gatos. O tempo médio de retorno da sedação foi mais prolongado em gatos. Estes resultados mostraram que a intoxicação por amitraz entre cães e gatos é muito similar, porém os gatos demonstraram maior sensibilidade à indução de hipotermia e hiperglicemia, além de midríase e um tempo médio de retorno da sedação mais prolongado, enquanto os cães apresentaram diminuição mais acentuada nos parâmetros cardiorespiratórios e dos níveis plasmáticos de cortisol do que os gatos.

The objective of the present work was to study the characteristics in common and the differences observed in the intoxication by amitraz 1 mg/kg, IV, in dogs and cats. The main clinical signs observed in common were sedation, hypothermia, bradycardia, bradyarrhytmia, hypotension, bradypnea, mydriasis and transitory hyperglycemia, however the intensity of these signs was different among the species. he hypothermia was more accentuated in cats than in dogs. The dogs were more sensitive to the cardiorespiratory alterations presenting more significant decrease in the heart and breathing frequency, besides occurrence of larger bradyarrhytmia number. The cats presented more prolong mydriasis than the dogs. It was observed hyperglycemia and transitory hypoinsulinemia and transitory decrease of the plasmatic levels of cortisol, however the cats presented a hyperglycemia pick more accentuated and more precocious than the dogs, and regarding the plasmatic levels of cortisol, the dogs presented a decrease more accentuated than the cats. In the medium time of return of the sedation smaller in cat. These results demonstrated that the amitraz intoxication between dogs and cats is very similar, however the cats showed more sensibility to the hypothermia and hyperglycemia induction, besides mydriasis and the medium time of return of sedation more prolong, while the dogs presented a decrease more accentuated in the cardiorespiratory parameters and of the plasmatic levels of cortisol than the cats.

Megaesôfago secundário a miastenia grave em umacadela da raça Pastor Alemão / Megaesophagus secondary to myasthenia gravis in a female German shepherd dog

Megaesôfago é uma causa comum de regurgitação sendo uma das possíveis etiologias a miastenia gravecaracterizada por uma desordem neuromuscular que resulta em fraqueza dos músculos esqueléticos, doesôfago, da laringe e da faringe. O presente relato descreve um caso de uma cadela da raça PastorAlemão, com histórico de fraqueza muscular e vômitos freqüentes, que foi diagnosticada comomegaesôfago secundário à miastenia grave. A radiografia do animal apresentou um acentuadomegaesôfago cervical e torácico. Após a instituição do protocolo terapêutico recomendado o animalapresentou melhora visível ao caminhar, porém as regurgitações pioraram e começou a apresentar tosse.Foi realizado novo exame radiográfico com presença, além de megaesôfago, de pneumonia aspirativa. Aproprietária optou pela eutanásia do animal e a necropsia revelou severa pneumonia e dilatação acentuadada porção caudal do esôfago, caracterizando um megaesôfago de grande dimensão, colaborando comsubsídios para um prognóstico desfavorável do caso.

Megaesophagus is a common cause of regurgitation being one of the possible etiologies the myasthenia gravis characterized by a neuromuscular disorder that result in weakness of the skeletal muscles, of the esophagus, of the larynx and of the pharynx. The present report describes a case of a female German shepherd dog, with report of muscles weakness and frequent vomits, which was diagnosed as a megaesophagus secondary to myasthenia gravis. The radiograph of the animal presented an accentuated cervical and thoracic megaesophagus. After the institution of the recommended therapeutic protocol the animal presented visible improvement when walking, however the regurgitations worsened and it began to present cough. New radiograph was accomplished with presence, besides megaesophagus, of aspiration pneumonia. The owner opted for the euthanasia of the animal and the necropsy revealed severe pneumonia and an accentuated dilation of the posterior portion of the esophagus, collaborating with subsidies for an unfavorable prognostic of the case.