T-cell-lymphoma presented as a solitary subcutaneous mass in the ventral cervical region of an adult llama- diagnostic and treatment.

BACKGROUND: Neoplasm in South American camelids (SAC) are commonly described. The most frequently reported type of neoplasm are lymphomas and difference in the age suffering from lymphomas of and llamas is seen. This report describes a case of a solitary lymphoma in a 5 years and 9 month old llama mare displaying the approach of diagnostic imaging and successful surgical treatment. CASE PRESENTATION: The llama was referred to the clinic for dyspnoea and inspiratory abnormal respiratory sounds. The clinical examination comprised blood cell count, ultrasonographic and radiographic examinations, endoscopy and fine needle aspiration cytology of a mass detected in the mid cervical region. The mass was surgically removed. Histopathological examination of the surgically removed mass diagnosed a malignant T-cell- lymphoma. According to the results of the clinical, ultrasonographic and radiographic examinations no tumor invasion was apparent in distant organs and the llama was discharged from the clinic seven days after surgery. CONCLUSION: Lymphoma has been reported to be the most common neoplasia in camelids and are more often described in young alpacas and in adult llamas. To the author´s knowledge the case presented here is the first that described a broad panel of diagnostic tools including ultrasound, radiographs, endoscopy, fine needle aspiration cytology and histopathoogical examination as well as a successful surgical treatment of a solitary lymphoma in camelids.

A potential treatment approach for subclinical mastitis in dairy cows: auriculotherapy of the auricular branch of the vagus nerve.

This research aims to test the hypothesis that neural therapy (NT) on the auricular branch of the vagus nerve (ABVN) in dairy cows diagnosed with subclinical mastitis (SCM) results in a reduction of the somatic cell count. Therapeutic options for SCM are mostly based on use of antibiotics and often lead to unsatisfactory results. An alternative therapy targeting the anti-inflammatory properties of the vagus nerve showing good efficacy, economic viability and without major side effects would be of considerable interest. Auriculotherapy (AT) was performed using three repeated infiltrations of 8.0 mg (0.4 ml) procaine hydrochloride (2%) at the location of the ear tag associated with the auricular acupuncture point (AAP) of the udder. Some 85 clinically healthy cows from nine dairy farms were sampled for evaluation of quarter somatic cell count (QSCC) on four days (d0, d2, d4 and d6). Quarters with a QSCC > 100 000 cells/ml on d0 were included in the analysis. Over the study period, a total of 784 quarters were analysed, 385 control (CON) quarters from 40 cows and 399 treated (TRE) quarters from 45 cows. Results showed that AT of the ABNV resulted in a significant reduction of the QSCC after three treatments. The effect was independent of bacteriological culture results of the quarter milk samples. The bacteriological cure rate, however, was not influenced by AT. To our knowledge this is the first report of AT reducing QSCC in dairy cows with SCM. Before AT can be regarded as an alternative therapeutic approach, further research should focus on possible long-term effects of AT on the reduction of SCC, any bacterial elimination and the neural pathways of AT in dairy cows with SCM.

Intracranial abscess formation in an adult alpaca: a case report.

BACKGROUND: Intracranial abscess formation is an extremely rare and sporadically documented disease in South American Camelids (SACs). Herein we report the first case of otogenic brain abscess formation in this species. CASE PRESENTATION: A 4 years old female alpaca was presented to our veterinary hospital with a 6 month history of neurologic disorder symptoms, mainly head tilt to the right and emaciation. A comprehensive workup (ultrasound and computed tomography) revealed irreversible cranial nerve abnormalities, extensive lesions in the region of external, middle and internal right ear including destruction of bony structures (tympanic bulla, parts of temporal bone) and severe brain deformation caused by an intracranial abscess. The lesion was up to 6x7x4 cm and occupying almost 40% of the cranial cavity. No pathological findings were evident in other organs or structures. The late referral of the alpaca at this advanced stage of destructive disease precluded surgical intervention. CONCLUSIONS: This case report describes the clinical signs, diagnostic procedures and pathological findings in an adult female alpaca suffering from cranial nerve abnormalities caused by a massive otogenic brain abscess. Camelids suffering from otitis may not present with clinical signs until the pathology is severe. The importance of considering intracranial abscess formation as differential diagnosis in SACs showing the merest hint of nerve deficits cannot be emphasized enough in order to diagnose such pathological processes at an early and treatable stage.

Sinonasal cysts causing dyspnoea in two cattle - case report.

Two cattle were referred to the University Clinic for Ruminants of the University of Veterinary Medicine in Vienna. The main clinical sign in both cattle was dyspnoea with nasal stridor. Clinical examination of the upper respiratory tract was conducted, supplemented by ultrasonography, endoscopy and radiography. In addition, histological, bacteriological, and cytological examinations of different specimen materials were performed. The cow of Case 1 suffered from cystic nasal conchae, which was treated successfully by a laser technique. The cow of Case 2 also suffered from cystic nasal conchae. No surgery was performed in this case because the cyst opened spontaneously the day after diagnostic endoscopic procedures had been performed and the animal did not show any respiratory signs anymore. Pathological changes in the upper respiratory tract, such as nasal obstructions, should be included in the list of differential diagnoses in cattle showing respiratory distress.

[Severe chronic osteomyelitis of the os ileum in an alpaca - Diagnostic and pathological findings]. / Hochgradige chronische Osteomyelitis des Darmbeines bei einem Alpaka.

A 5.5-year-old alpaca mare was referred to the University Clinic for Ruminants due to a lameness in the right hind limb. Six months prior to presentation, the mare had been treated with systemic antibiotics resulting in resolution of the initial lameness. At the time there had been no indication of an inciting trauma. Clinical examination revealed an approx. 2 × 2 cm large, fluctuating, neither excessively warm nor painful mass caudal to the right tuber coxae fixed to the underlying tissue. In addition, a moderate, mixed lameness with a predominant proportion of the swinging leg component was present in the right hind limb. Subsequently, sonographic examination of the right gluteal region was performed, revealing severe alterations of bone contour in the area of the right hip joint. Radiographic assessment of the pelvis was carried out for further clarification. Based on the clinical finding of a fistula in the right gluteal region as well as the results of the radiologic examination, a long-standing infected fracture of the right iliac bone accompanied by high-degree, irregularly calcified callus formation and low to moderate osteomyelitis in the fracture area was diagnosed. The patient was euthanized in consequence of the grave prognosis. Computed tomographic examination of the pelvis and the lumbar spine in the L3-L6 area was undertaken in order to further document the extent of the pathological changes. For final clarification, patho-histological examination as well as a microbiologic analysis of the abscess exudate were performed.The presented case shows the importance of clinical as well as orthopedic examinations, as the individual animal frequently only exhibits minimal clinical signs despite the presence of severe changes.

ultrasonography of kidney and spleen in clinically healthy llamas and alpacas.

BACKGROUND: The ultrasonographic examination technique is a well-established, non-invasive diagnostic tool for diverse conditions in humans and different animal species. The purpose of our study was to describe ultrasonographic localisation, sonographic appearance and dimensions of the kidneys and spleen of clinically healthy llamas and alpacas. Differences between llamas and alpacas and the influence of sex and ages were investigated. Results of this study may aid veterinarians performing ultrasonography in diseased animals and the technique can be used for routine protocol screening. RESULTS: Ultrasonography was performed in 135 clinically healthy, non-sedated llamas and alpacas. Screening was performed with a 6.6 MHz curve linear transducer with only alcohol as contact medium between the probe and unclipped skin. The kidneys could be imaged from the paralumbar region. The right kidney only was visualized when scanning from the right and the left kidney only from the left. While the left kidney appeared in sagittal view as an oval shape in most llamas and alpacas, in one third of animals the left kidney had a triangular shape. The L-shaped base of the spleen, with its homogeneous, echoic pattern, could be seen craniolateral to the left kidney. Anechoic areas displaying vessels inside the spleen and a thin echoic capsule surrounding the splenic tissue could be differentiated. While sonographic appearances of the examined organs showed no differences between llamas and alpacas, selected dimensions of both of kidney and spleen showed significant differences between species. In terms of age and sex, significant differences in respect of kidney size could be found only in alpacas. Sex seemed to have no influence on kidney and spleen sizes in llamas. CONCLUSIONS: The present study provides species-specific information on ultrasonographic appearance and reference values for kidney and spleen dimensions of clinically healthy llamas and alpacas. Results show differences in organ sizes between llamas and alpacas and in alpacas of different sex and age. The results of this study can be used as references for veterinarians performing ultrasound examinations in diseased animals.

[A survey among breeders of South American camelids concerning breeding and reproduction management]. / Umfrage unter Neuweltkameliden-Züchtern zum Zucht- und Fortpflanzungsmanagement.

OBJECTIVE: South American camelids have become popular with an increasing number of breeders in Austria, Germany and Switzerland. The aim of the present online survey was to gain information concerning housing and management of South American camelids, particularly during pregnancy and parturition. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A link to the online survey was sent via email to 8 breeder associations in Austria, Germany and Switzerland. The questionnaire included a total of 24 closed or open questions. The period for participation was May to October 2019. RESULTS: A total of 92 breeders participated and 64 answered all questions. The survey revealed that South American camelids were mainly used for breeding (87 %) and production of fibre (74 %). The median flock size was 27 animals, mainly females. Most breeders (74 %) acquired their knowledge on South American camelids via personal contacts and advanced training courses. The majority (57 %) mated their females with an own sire that is kept separately. Using teaser males was the most popular pregnancy test (91 %), often combined with other techniques, especially ultrasonography. In most mares (88 %) duration of pregnancy was in the normal range of 335-360 days. Repeated problems with loss of pregnancy were reported by 76 % of breeders for less than 5 % of their mares. Postpartum problems occurred sporadically, e. g. lack of milk or mastitis (each < 5 %). Problems with the cria at parturition within the last 3 years were reported by > 50 % of the breeders, but reported reasons for dystocia showed no clear focus. The majority of the participants (69 %) were satisfied with the veterinary care in general and in the fields of pregnancy and obstetrics. CONCLUSION: The results of this survey provide new insights into the management practices of South American camelids breeders in Austria, Germany and Switzerland. Further studies could compare these practices with those in countries where breeding of South American camelids possesses a longer tradition and different commercial backgrounds. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: The results provide information to practitioners in preparation for problems and challenges in the veterinary care of South American camelids.

Measurement of the puncture profile and extradural pressure of cattle during extradural anaesthesia.

OBJECTIVE: To measure the pressure profile during caudal extradural puncture and subsequent extradural anaesthesia in cattle and to investigate the presence of extradural pressure waves. STUDY DESIGN: Prospective experimental study. ANIMALS: Eleven cattle aged 4.1 +/- 2.5 years (range 0.8 to 8.8 years), with a body weight of 613 +/- 162 kg (range 302-840 kg). METHODS: Caudal extradural puncture was performed. To measure the extradural pressure profile, the needle was connected to an electronic pressure transducer placed at the height of the base of the tail. The pressure profile was recorded for 3 minutes following extradural puncture. Lack of resistance to injection of saline was assessed. One minute and 10 minutes after extradural anaesthesia with procaine extradural pressure was recorded. Correct extradural needle placement was assessed by clinical response. RESULTS: Three minutes after extradural puncture the median pressure was -16 (range -25 to 25) mmHg. Pressure in the extradural space 1 minute after the lack of resistance, 3 seconds after injection, and 10 minutes after injection was -15 (-24 to 33) mmHg, 8 (-17 to 84) mmHg, and -7 (-25 to 27) mmHg respectively. Pressure waves were visible after puncture, after lack of resistance, 3 seconds and 10 minutes after injection, in 4, 6, 8 and 7 cattle respectively. Pressure after testing lack of resistance, after the injection of local anaesthetic, as well as at the end of the measurement, period was significantly higher than baseline. All cattle showed clinical signs indicative of successful extradural needle placement. CONCLUSION AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Extradural pressure was sub-atmospheric in 82% of the animals. Pressure waves were not consistently present before or after extradural injection, which limits their usefulness to confirm correct extradural needle placement. Extradural pressures increase significantly after injection of local anaesthetic solution. However, the clinical significance of the increase in extradural pressures was not clear.

Use of endoscopy for examination of the sacral epidural space in standing cattle.

OBJECTIVE: To develop an epiduroscopic technique for use in standing cattle and describe the endoscopically visible anatomic structures of the epidural space in the sacrococcygeal area. ANIMALS: 6 healthy nonlactating, nonpregnant cows (mean +/- SD age, 60 +/- 18.5 months; mean weight, 599.7 +/- 63.87 kg) and 3 bovine cadavers. PROCEDURES: Cadavers were used to allow familiarization with the equipment and refinement of the technique. Following these experiences, procedures were performed in live animals. Each cow was restrained in a stock. After sedation with xylazine (0.03 mg/kg, IV), 2% lidocaine hydrochloride (0.25 mg/kg) was injected epidurally in the first intercoccygeal or the sacrococcygeal intervertebral space. By use of an introducer set (guidewire and dilation trocar and shaft), a flexible endoscope (length, 75 cm; diameter, 2.3 mm) was inserted through the dilation shaft into the epidural space. To obtain an optimal view, small amounts of air were insufflated into the epidural space through the working channel of the endoscope via a syringe with special filter. RESULTS: Anatomic structures of the epidural space that were viewed by means of the endoscopic procedure included blood vessels, connective tissue, fat, nerves, and the spinal dura mater. No adverse events were detected during epiduroscopy, and it was tolerated well by all 6 cows. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: In ruminants, epidural structures can be viewed via endoscopy. Such epiduroscopic procedures may be useful in anatomic studies as well as for the diagnosis of disease or therapeutic interventions in ruminants.

Laparoscopic-assisted implantation of a urinary catheter in male sheep.

OBJECTIVE-To evaluate a laparoscopic technique for implantation of a urinary catheter in the right paramedian area in male sheep and to determine feasibility, benefits, and risks for this technique. DESIGN-Evaluation study. ANIMALS-6 Healthy male sheep (mean +/- SD body weight, 42.16 +/- 11.95 kg [92.75 +/- 26.29 lb]). PROCEDURES-Each sheep was anesthetized and positioned in dorsal recumbency. A 10-mm laparoscope was inserted in the right paramedian area between the xiphoid and preputial orifice. After creation of capnoperitoneum, grasping forceps were inserted in the left paramedian area at the level of the teats and used to immobilize the urinary bladder. A pigtail balloon catheter was implanted transcutaneously in the right paramedian area between the preputial orifice and teats and directed into the urinary bladder by use of laparoscopic guidance. The catheter was removed 10 days after implantation. Fourteen days after initial surgery, a second laparoscopy was performed to evaluate pathologic changes. RESULTS-Inadvertent insertion of the first trocar into the rumen of 1 sheep was the only intraoperative complication encountered. Laparoscopic-assisted implantation of the urinary catheter was successfully performed in all sheep. No postoperative complications were detected. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE-Laparoscopic-assisted implantation of a urinary catheter in the right paramedian area was successfully performed and may be a feasible method for use in sheep. This method can be considered as an alternative to tube cystotomy performed by laparotomy.

Endoscopic examination of the upper respiratory tract and oesophagus in small ruminants: technique and normal appearance.

The aim of this study was to describe the technique of rhinolaryngotracheobronchoscopy and oesophagoscopy in small ruminants and to report the normal endoscopic appearance of the structures of the upper respiratory tract and oesophagus. Thirty sheep and 30 goats, all clinically normal, underwent rhinolaryngotracheobronchoscopy and oesophagoscopy using a flexible endoscope (length 100 cm; diameter 4 mm). The anatomical features of the structures and the appearance of the mucosa were investigated. The degree of mucosal pigmentation varied between breeds. The appearance of the pharyngeal tonsil and the shape of the trachea in cross-section showed most individual variation. The technique was easily performed and sedation was necessary in only a few cases. No major complications were encountered. It was concluded that the procedure facilitated more accurate diagnosis and prognosis of conditions of the upper respiratory tract and oesophagus.

Comparison of two ruminoscopy techniques in calves.

Two different techniques were tested in nine calves to describe endoscopically the visible structures of the rumen and the reticulum. Ruminoscopy using an orally introduced flexible endoscope proved to be unsatisfactory, but when the endoscope was introduced through a ruminal fistula in the left flank into the dorsal and ventral ruminal sacs, the blind sacs, ruminal pillars, the atrium of the rumen, the reticulum and the reticular groove could all be displayed effectively. Indentations of the ruminal wall caused by the left kidney, the spleen and the abomasum could be seen with the endoscope as could reticulo-ruminal contractions. The technique allowed visual evaluation of the mucosal surfaces and movement of the rumen, reticulum and reticular groove. The advantages and disadvantages of ruminoscopy in bovine medicine are discussed.

[The occurrence of "Candidatus Mycoplasma haemolamae" infections in clinically asymptomatic South American Camelids in Austria]. / Zum Vorkommen von "Candidatus Mycoplasma haemolamae" bei klinisch unaufälligen Neuweltkameliden in Österreich.

Reports of CMhl infections in South American Camelids in Europe are only available from the United Kingdom and Switzerland. Knowing that CMhl infections can lead to severe disease resulting in death if combined with other diseases or stress, it was the aim of this study to assess prevalence data from camelids in Austria. In comparison to the previous studies a representative number of camelids was investigated nationwide. Data were assessed due to differences in geographical region, age, sex, species, and origin. A relatively high prevalence of 25.8% was recorded. CMhl was detected significantly more often in alpacas (Vicunja pacos) than in llamas (Lama glama) and more frequently in animals younger than 2 years. Additionally regional differences have been observed, which might be due to climatic differences and/or variations in insect vectors. In this study apperantly clinical healthy animals were shown to be infected with CMhl. Camelids infected with CMhl are a pathogen reservoir. The results of this study indicate different risk levels of infection between llamas and alpacas and between younger and older animals. The data presented underline the necessity of further studies on CMhlI infections in South American Camelids.

Llamas and alpacas in Europe: Endoparasites of the digestive tract and their pharmacotherapeutic control.

There are distinctive specifications for veterinary medical care of South American camelids (SACs), namely, llamas, alpacas, vicunas and guanacos. Camelids are classified as food-producing animals, but as veterinary medicinal products are often only licensed for domestic food-producing species such as horses, goats, sheep and cattle, treatment of SACs generally requires off-label use of drugs. Endoparasitism is a major health concern in camelids and can result in severe clinical diseases and economic losses. There is still a lack of work on the pharmacokinetics, safety and efficacy for most antiparasitic drugs used in SACs. Even when choosing an appropriate route of administration, several aspects must be considered such as the fact that pour-on formulations are largely ineffective in camelids due to the unique features of llama and alpaca skin and hair that result in extremely low drug bioavailability. This review focuses on the main endoparasites of the digestive tract in llamas and alpacas in Europe and pharmacotherapeutic options based on current knowledge.

Evaluation of three-dimensional ultrasonography of the bovine mammary gland.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate 3-dimensional (3-D) ultrasonography of the bovine mammary gland, particularly of the teat. ANIMALS: 6 lactating cows. PROCEDURES: Clinical and ultrasonographic examinations of mammary glands of each cow were performed. Teats were removed from a slaughtered cow and examined via ultrasonography. All scans were performed by use of a sensorless standard transducer (8.5 to 10 MHz linear array). The 2-dimensional data acquired were downloaded to an off-line system, and software was used to digitize each image and produce a 3-D block of digitized information. The selected anatomic area was displayed as a 3-D volume cube. RESULTS: Good-quality, 3-D views of the entire mammary gland were acquired by obtaining sections through the glandular parenchyma, gland cistern, teat cistern, and teat canal. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: 3-D ultrasonography allows perspective images of the mammary gland to be obtained. Many scanners routinely used in veterinary practice have the resolution required to produce satisfactory images, and the cost of refitting a standard ultrasonographic unit with 3-D software is affordable; however, the cost of a volume transducer with a positioning system and mechanical sweep strategy may be prohibitive. Three-dimensional ultrasonography is a new imaging technique that has promising applications in many fields of veterinary medicine.

Cystoscopy in cattle--a valuable additional tool for clinical examination.

Based on the findings of physical examination and on laboratory findings the urinary bladder of 23 cows was examined endoscopically in order to investigate the application of cystoscopy in cattle. The endoscopic findings of all examined cows were compared with the findings of physical examination and the results of macroscopic and microscopic urinalysis and the bacteriological culture of the urine. By physical examination only 3 cows were diagnosed to have urinary tract disease, whereas all other cows were suspected of having an urinary tract disease. Bacteriological culture of the urine revealed Corynebacterium renale and Escherichia coli infection in 18 cows, while the remaining 5 cows were negative. By cystoscopy catarrhal cystitis was diagnosed in 2 cases, haemorrhagic cystitis in 5 cases, and fibrinous-purulent and fibrinous-haemorrhagic cystitis in 13 cases. Three cows showed no pathological changes of the urinary bladder mucosa by endoscopic examination. Cystoscopy facilitates diagnosis through the direct visualisation of mucosal lesions and makes it possible to give a more accurate prognosis based upon the findings.

Efficacy and safety of oral praziquantel against Dicrocoelium dendriticum in llamas.

Dicrocoelium dendriticum can cause severe pathological changes of the liver and bile system in camelids, and therapeutic options for treatment are limited. To address this problem, the efficacy of two different dose rates of praziquantel was investigated in llamas suffering from natural D. dendriticum infections. 53 llamas were examined under field conditions on two occasions: before and two weeks after treatment. At the beginning of the study, the animals were weighed, randomly allocated to one of the treatment groups (n=21 each) or the control group (n=11) and dosed orally using a praziquantel-containing paste (250 mg/ml) at a dose of either 25 mg (group 1) or 50 mg (group 2) per kg of body weight. Criteria for efficacy were faecal egg count reduction (FECR) and extensity effect. Animals treated with 25 mg/kg of body weight showed a FECR of 85%. Therapy with 50 mg/kg led to a FECR of 91%. Almost twice the number of animals of group 1 (33%) still shed eggs two weeks after treatment compared with group 2. The results of this study indicate that 50 mg/kg oral praziquantel is required for efficacious dosing and that this dose rate is safe in llamas and thus is recommended for the treatment of camelids naturally infected with D. dendriticum.

Ultrasonography of the bovine udder and teat.

Ultrasonography is a noninvasive technique for examining the bovine udder and teats. It is performed in the standing animal using a high frequency scanner (7.5-10.0 MHz) for examination of the teat structures (teat canal, rosette of Fuerstenberg, teat cistern, gland cistern) and a 5.0 MHz probe for examining the glandular parenchyma. Ultrasonography is a helpful tool to diagnose pathologic alterations of the udder such as inflammation, mucosal lesions, tissue proliferation, foreign bodies, milk stones, congenital changes, hematoma, and abscess. However, ultrasonography of the teat allows for the localization and demarcation of the extent of pathologic changes and therefore is an important additional diagnostic examination technique.

Influence of milking technique and lactation on the bovine teat by means of ultrasonographic examination.

The teats of Brown Swiss and Austrian Simmental cows, divided into two groups, one milked by means of an automatic milking system, the other using a conventional milking parlour, were examined monthly by ultrasonography. Aim of the study was to compare the effects of two different milking machines upon the structures of the bovine teat canal and wall by ultrasonography and thereby evaluate ultrasonography as a research tool for visualisation of different influences on the bovine teat. Length and thickness of the teat canal and teat wall thickness were measured and analysed. During lactation, teat canal length and thickness increased in both groups, teat canal length decreased in conventional milked cows at the end of lactation. Shorter and narrower teat canals were observed in automatic milked cows. Differences between the groups in teat canal length and thickness were determined in early lactation. During lactation teat wall thickness showed a slight increase. Automatic milked cows displayed thinner teat walls than cows milked in the milking parlour. Teat morphology was influenced by the number and duration of lactations, milk yield, quarter of the udder and time and date of examination. It was concluded that the effect of the two different milking machines caused significant differences in bovine teat morphology and that ultrasonography proved to be an appropriate method for visualising influences of the milking technique on the bovine teat.

Thiolated chitosans: design and in vivo evaluation of a mucoadhesive buccal peptide drug delivery system.

PURPOSE: Intravenous application of pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating polypeptide (PACAP) has been identified as a promising strategy for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. To generate a more applicable formulation, it was the aim of this study to develop a sustained buccal delivery system for this promising therapeutic peptide. METHODS: 2-Iminothiolane was covalently bound to chitosan to improve the mucoadhesive and permeation-enhancing properties of chitosan used as drug carrier matrix. The resulting chitosan-4-thiobutylamidine conjugate was homogenized with the enzyme inhibitor and permeation mediator glutathione (gamma-Glu-Cys-Gly), Brij 35, and PACAP (formulation A). The mixture was lyophilized and compressed into flat-faced discs (18 mm in diameter). One formulation was additionally coated on one side with palm wax (formulation B). Tablets consisting of unmodified chitosan and PACAP (formulation C) or of unmodified chitosan, Brij 35, and PACAP (formulation D) served as controls. Bioavailability studies were performed in pigs by buccal administration of these test formulations. Blood samples were analyzed via an ELISA method. RESULTS: Formulations A and B led to an absolute bioavailability of 1%, whereas PACAP did not reach the systemic circulation when administered via formulations C and D. Moreover, in the case of formulations A and B, a continuously raised plasma level of the peptide drug being in the therapeutic range could be maintained over the whole period of application (6 h). Formulations A and B were removed by moderate force from the buccal mucosa after 6 h, whereas formulations C and D detached from the mucosa 4 h after application. CONCLUSION: The study reveals this novel mucoadhesive delivery system to be a promising approach for buccal delivery of PACAP.