Effects of moderate and severe arterial hypotension on intracerebral perfusion and brain tissue oxygenation in piglets.

BACKGROUND: Hypotension is common in anaesthetised children, and its impact on cerebral oxygenation is unknown. The goal of the present study was to investigate the effects of moderate systemic arterial hypotension (mHT) and severe hypotension (sHT) on cerebral perfusion and brain tissue oxygenation in piglets. METHODS: Twenty-seven anaesthetised piglets were randomly allocated to a control group, mHT group, or sHT group. Cerebral monitoring comprised a tissue oxygen partial pressure ( [Formula: see text] ) and laser Doppler (LD) perfusion probe advanced into the brain tissue, and a near-infrared spectroscopy sensor placed over the skin measuring regional oxygen saturation (rSO2). Arterial hypotension was induced by blood withdrawal and i.v. nitroprusside infusion [target MAP: 35-38 (mHT) and 27-30 (sHT) mm Hg]. Data were analysed at baseline, and every 20 min during and after treatment. RESULTS: Compared with control, [Formula: see text] decreased equally with mHT and sHT [mean (SD) after 60 min: control: 17.1 (6.4); mHT: 6.4 (3.6); sHT: 7.2 (4.3) mm Hg]. No differences between groups were detected for rSO2 and LD during treatment. However, in the sHT group, rSO2 increased after restoring normotension [from 49.3 (9.5) to 58.9 (8.9)% Post60]. sHT was associated with an increase in blood lactate [from 1.5 (0.4) to 2.4 (0.9) mmol L-1], and a decrease in bicarbonate [28 (2.4) to 25.8 (2.6) mmol L-1] and base excess [4.7 (1.9) to 2.0 (2.7) mmol L-1] between baseline and 60 min after the start of the experiment. CONCLUSIONS: Induction of mHT and sHT by hypovolaemia and nitroprusside infusion caused alterations in brain tissue oxygenation in a piglet model, but without detectable changes in brain tissue perfusion and regional oxygen saturation.

Prevalence of humeral head osteochondrosis in the Greater Swiss Mountain dog and the Border Collie in Switzerland.

INTRODUCTION: Osteochondrosis (OC) is common in large-breed dogs. According to the breeding guidelines of the Swiss kennel clubs, the shoulder joints are included in the radiographic screening for joint diseases in the Greater Swiss Mountain dog (GSMD) and the Border Collie (BC) since 1993 and 2003, respectively. The aim of this study was to estimate the overall prevalence of humeral head OC in these 2 breeds in Switzerland based on the data of the Swiss National Dysplasia Committees. All radiographs were re-evaluated to assess single radiographic changes. From 1993 and 2003, accordingly, until 2013, the overall prevalence was 14% for the GSMD and 8% for the BC, respectively. Affected joints showed a focally reduced opacity or a flattened/indented contour of the caudal section of the humeral head. Articular flaps were only seen occasionally. Degenerative joint disease was significantly more common in OC affected joints (GSMD: 32%; BC: 20%) than in joints without OC. The present study is the first report on the prevalence of humeral head OC in a large cohort of GSMD and the BC over a long study period. In comparison to other breeds, the herein reported prevalences are in the mid to upper range. Results of the present study should alert veterinarians to the disease in these breeds and may serve as a starting point for further epidemiological and genetic studies.

INTRODUCTION: L'ostéochondrose (OC) est fréquente chez les chiens de grande race. Conformément aux prescriptions d'élevage des clubs cynologiques suisses, l'articulation de l'épaule est incluse dans le dépistage radiologique des affections articulaires chez le Grand bouvier suisse (GBS) et le Border Collie (BC) et ceci depuis 1993 respectivement 2003. Le but de la présente étude était d'estimer la prévalence de l'OC de la tête humérale chez ces deux races en Suisse, sur la base des données des commissions nationales suisses de dysplasie. Toutes les radiographies ont été réévaluées pour repérer des altérations radiologiques isolées. Depuis 1993 respectivement 2003 jusqu'en 2013, la prévalence était de 14% chez le GBC et de 8% chez le BC. Les articulations affectées montraient une opacité localement réduite ou un contour aplati/ dentelé de la partie caudale de la tête humérale. Des souris articulaires n'étaient constatées qu'occasionnellement. Les affections articulaires dégénératives étaient significativement plus fréquentes sur les articulations affectées d'OC que sur les autres (GBS: 32%; BC: 20%). La présente étude rapporte pour la première fois la prévalence de l'OC de la tête humérale sur une large cohorte de GBS et de BC sur une longue période. En comparaison avec d'autres races, les prévalences constatées se situent entre la moyenne et le niveau supérieur. Les résultats de cette étude doivent alerter les vétérinaires au sujet de cette affection chez ces races et peut server de pont de départ pour de futures recherches épidémiologiques et génétiques.

[Diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis in the dog (DISH): a review]. / Diffuse idiopathische skelettale Hyperostose (DISH) beim Hund: Eine Übersicht.

INTRODUCTION: Diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis (DISH) is a common, non-inflammatory, systemic disease of the spine and the abaxial skeleton in humans and dogs. Spondylosis deformans (SD) must be considered as an important differential diagnosis which in humans, unlike DISH, is always accompanied by degenerative disc disease. In the veterinary literature, usually no difference is made between these diseases. The aim of the present review is to summarize essentials of DISH regarding its definition, etiology, prevalence, clinical findings and therapy in both, the human and dog. In particular, the various classification schemes and the most important differential diagnoses are discussed. Specific aspects of canine DISH are highlighted.

INTRODUCTION: L'hyperostose squelettique idiopathique diffuse (DISH) est une affection systémique non-inflammatoire de la colonne vertébrale et du squelette périphérique chez l'homme et le chien. La spondylose déformante (SD) qui, chez l'homme, contrairement à la DISH, s'accompagne d'une atteinte dégénérative des disques intervertébraux et représente donc une entité pathologique propre constitue un diagnostic différentiel important. Dans la littérature vétérinaire, par contre, on ne distingue souvent pas de façon explicite entre SD et DISH. Le but du présent travail est de donner un aperçu de la définition, de l'étiologie, de la prévalence, de la clinique et du traitement de la DISH chez l'homme et le chien. On discute en particulier les divers schémas de classification et les principaux diagnostics différentiels et on relève particulièrement les aspects spécifiques de l'affection chez le chien.

Computed tomography of the thorax in calves from birth to 105 days of age.

The present study was undertaken to provide computed tomographic (CT) reference values for structures in the thorax of the calf. Six clinically healthy Holstein-Friesian calves were anaesthetized. Transverse pre- and postcontrast images with a reconstructed 1.5-mm slice thickness were obtained using a multislice-CT scanner at 6 different time points from birth to 105 days of age. Absolute and relative measurements of the trachea, heart, cranial and caudal vena cava, thoracic aorta, right and left principal bronchi, right and left caudal lobar bronchi and the accompanying branches of the right and left pulmonary artery and vein, thoracic lymph nodes and lung density were taken for every time point. All animals were euthanized after the last CT scan, and 4 calves were frozen to generate an atlas comparing gross anatomy with CT. During the study, 4 animals temporarily showed coughing and mucopurulent nasal discharge, and mild to moderate bronchopneumonia and pleuritis were diagnosed using CT. Animals recovered with treatment; however, mild to moderate CT changes remained throughout the study. Even in the 2 clinically normal animals, mild bronchopneumonia was diagnosed on CT.

Dans ce travail, on a relevé les valeurs normales de tomodensitométrie pour les structures thoraciques de veaux. Six veaux holstein-friesian en bonne santé ont pour cela été examinés sous narcose à six reprises, de leur naissance à l'âge de 105 jours, au moyen d'un scanner multi-barrettes sous forme native et en angiographie. On a reconstruit des images avec une épaisseur de coupe de 1.5 mm. On a effectué à chaque fois des mesures absolues et relatives du cœur, de la trachée, de l'aorte thoracique, de la veine cave crâniale et caudale, des bronches principales, des bronches lobaires avec les rameaux des artères et des veines pulmonaires, des ganglions lymphatiques ainsi que de la densité pulmonaire. Tous les animaux ont été euthanasiés à l'issue du sixième examen et quatre d'entre eux ont été congelés pour permettre une comparaison entre les images obtenues et des coupes anatomiques. Durant l'étude, quatre veaux ont présenté de la toux et un écoulement nasal. La tomodensitométrie a permis de diagnostiquer une bronchopneumonie légère à moyenne ainsi qu'une pleurésie. Bien que les animaux aient, après traitement, complètement guéri, des modifications légères à moyennes des images tomodensitométriques ont persistés jusqu'à la fin de l'étude. Une légère broncho-pneumonie a même été diagnostiquée chez les deux animaux ne présentant pas de symptômes cliniques.

Computed tomography of the abdomen of calves during the first 105 days of life: I. Reticulum, rumen, omasum and abomasum.

Computed tomographic (CT) images of the reticulum, rumen, omasum and abomasum of five healthy Holstein-Friesian bull calves were compared with anatomical transverse cadaver sections of the same calves. The calves were scanned in the transverse plane from the 5th thoracic vertebra to the sacrum six times three weeks apart from birth to 105 days of age. Multiplanar reconstruction was used to create images in sagittal and dorsal planes. After subjective assessment of various anatomical structures, the rumen, omasum and abomasum as well as the ruminal strata (gas cap, fibre mat and fluid phase) were measured. After the last CT scan, all calves were euthanised, and four were kept at -18 °C in sternal position for 14 days. Transverse sections 1.0 to 1.5 cm thick were made from two calves and dorsal and sagittal sections were made from one calf each using a band saw. The CT images and anatomical slices were compared and the structures on the CT images identified. Very clear CT images were obtained from the reticulum, rumen, omasum and abomasum and there was excellent agreement between images and anatomical slices.

Dans le présent travail, on décrit les constatations tomodensitométriques sur la panse, le bonnet, le feuillet et la caillette de 5 veaux mâles en bonne santé dans les 105 premiers jours de vie et on les compare avec les résultats des examens post-mortem. Les veaux ont été examinés au total 6 fois par tomodensitométrie à intervalle de 3 semaines. L'examen a été réalisé par coupes transversales de la 5ème vertèbre thoracale jusqu'au sacrum. On a également reconstitué les structures dans les plans sagittal et dorsal au moyen de reconstruction multi planaires. Après l'examen subjectif, on a défini diverses structures, comme l'extension de la panse, du feuillet et de la caillette et celle des phases gazeuses, liquides et solides de l'ingestat de la panse. Tous les veaux ont été euthanasiés après les examens tomodensitométriques. Quatre d'entre eux ont été congelés durant 14 jours en position sternale à -18 °C. Deux veaux ont ensuite été sciés transversalement en tranches de 1.0 à 1.5 cm d'épaisseur. Un veau a été scié en tranches dorsales et un en tranches sagittales. Les coupes ont été comparées aux images tomodensitométriques afin d'identifier les structures visualisées. Le bonnet, la panse, le feuillet et la caillette ont pu être visualisés de façon exacte par tomodensitométrie. La topographie des images tomodensitométriques et des coupes anatomiques correspondent très bien.

Computed tomography of the abdomen of calves during the first 105 days of life: II. Liver, spleen, and small and large intestines.

Computed tomography (CT) findings of the liver, spleen and intestines of five healthy calves during six examinations in the first 105 days of life were compared with corresponding cadaver slices. The liver was located in the right hemiabdomen adjacent to the diaphragm and right abdominal wall. The caudal vena cava was seen dorsomedially and the portal vein further ventrally. The umbilical vein was seen running from the navel to the liver in all calves in the first scan and in four calves in the second scan. The spleen ran dorsoventrally adjacent to the costal part of the left abdominal wall and appeared sickle-shaped on transverse images. Differentiation of small and large intestines was only possible when the former contained fluid content and the latter gaseous content. The small intestine was in the left hemiabdomen dorsal to the abomasum and caudodorsal to the rumen at the first two examinations. Growth of the forestomachs caused displacement of the small intestine to the right and toward the ventral abdomen caudal to the liver and adjacent to the right abdominal wall. The large intestine was located caudodorsally, and the typical features of the spiral colon were apparent in the dorsal plane. The location of the caecum varied from dorsal to the spiral colon to adjacent to the right abdominal wall with the apex always pointing caudally. The rectum was easily identified in the pelvic region. The size, volume and density of the described organs throughout the study are shown in several tables.

Dans le présent travail, on décrit les constatations tomodensitométriques sur le foie, la rate et les intestins de 5 veaux mâles en bonne santé dans les 105 premiers jours de vie et on les compare avec les résultats des examens post-mortem. Le foie se situait dans la moitié droite de l'abdomen et était accolé au diaphragme et à la paroi abdominale droite. La veine cave caudale et, légèrement ventralement à elle, la veine porte étaient reconnaissables. Lors des deux premiers examens, on pouvait en outre visualiser la veine ombilicale qui va du nombril au foie. La rate présentait dans son plan transverse une forme de faux. Elle se situait juste à côté de la paroi abdominale gauche soutenue par les côtes et s'étendait de dorsal à ventral. La différentiation entre intestin grêle et gros intestin était possible lorsque le grêle contenait du liquide et le gros intestin du gaz. Lors des deux premiers examens, l'intestin grêle se situait à gauche de la ligne médiane, dorsalement à la caillette et caudalement à la panse, dans la partie dorsale de l'abdomen. L'augmentation du volume des pré-estomacs repoussait ensuite l'intestin grêle vers la droite, de sorte qu'ils se trouvaient caudalement au foie dans la partie ventrale de l'abdomen, contre la paroi abdominale droite. Le gros intestin se trouvait dans la partie caudo-dorsale de l'abdomen. On pouvait reconnaitre dorsalement l'organisation typique du colon ascendant (anse spirale) sur la plaque mésentérique. La position du caecum variait entre dorsalement à l'anse spirale du colon et le côté droit, le long de la paroi abdominale, la pointe du caecum étant toujours dirigée vers l'arrière. Le rectum était facilement identifiable dans la zone pelvienne. L'extension, le volume et la densité des divers organes au cours des 6 examens tomodensitométriques sont résumés dans plusieurs tableaux.

Computed tomography of the abdomen of calves during the first 105 days of life: III. Urinary tract and adrenal glands.

Computed tomographic (CT) findings of the urinary tract and adrenal glands of five healthy male calves in the first 105 days of life were compared with corresponding cadaver slices. The structures seen on CT images were identified using the corresponding cadaver slices. CT produced exact images of the kidneys, urinary bladder, urethra and adrenal glands, but reliable images of the ureters were only obtained near the renal hilus. There was excellent agreement between the structures on the CT images and the tissue slices. The structure and vessels of the kidneys, the origin of the ureters, the location, size and content of the urinary bladder and the course of the urethra in the pelvis and penis were evident on images. The size and volume of the kidneys and the length and width of the adrenal glands increased significantly during the study, but the ureteral and urethral diameters changed little.

Dans le présent travail, on décrit les constatations tomodensitométriques sur l'appareil urinaire et les surrénales de 5 veaux mâles en bonne santé dans les 105 premiers jours de vie et on les compare avec les résultats des examens post-mortem. Il est possible de visualiser exactement les reins, la vessie, l'urètre et les surrénales par tomodensitométrie alors que les uretères ne peuvent être identifiés de façon sûre que dans la zone du hile rénal. La topographie des organes et leur structure correspondent très bien aux coupes anatomiques. Il est possible de visualiser la structure et les vaisseaux des reins, le début des uretères, la position, la taille et le contenu de la vessie et le parcours de l'urètre dans le bassin et le pénis. L'extension et le volume des reins augmentent de façon significative entre le premier et le sixième examen. Il en est de même pour la longueur et la largeur des surrénales, alors que les diamètres des uretères et de l'urètre ne changent presque pas.

Does real-time elastography aid in differentiating canine splenic nodules?

Real-time elastography is a new ultrasonographic technology for measurement of tissue elasticity. Malignant lesions in the human breast, prostate, thyroid and lymph nodes show significantly reduced elasticity. The present study investigated the use of real-time elastography in the spleen of 22 dogs (8 benign and 6 malignant nodules, and 8 normal spleens) and results were compared to contrast-enhanced ultrasound findings. In summary, real-time elastography was neither able to differentiate benign from malignant splenic lesions, nor normal from diseased splenic tissue. No significant associations with contrast-enhanced ultrasound results were found. Real-time elastography, therefore, does not appear a useful tool for the differentiation of splenic nodules in the dog.

L'élastographie en temps réel est une nouvelle technique d'échographie qui permet de déterminer l'élasticité tissulaire. Chez l'homme, les nodules malins dans le sein, la prostate, la thyroïde et les ganglions lymphatiques présentent une élasticité significativement réduite. Dans la présente étude, on a utilisé l'élastographie en temps réel de la rate chez 22 chiens (8 nodules bénins et 6 malins, 8 rates normales). Les nodules bénins n'ont pas pu être différenciés des malins, ni le tissu splénique modifié du tissu normal. Les résultats n'étaient pas corrélés avec ceux de l'échographie renforcée par un moyen de contraste. Il ne semble donc pas que l'élastographie en temps réel permette la différenciation des nodules spléniques chez le chien.

Non-surgical external jugular vein catheterization using an ear vein access in piglets.

The objective of this study was to investigate the feasibility of external jugular vein catheterization through an ear vein in piglets. Forty-six sevoflurane-midazolam anaesthetized piglets were included. External jugular vein catheterization was conducted through the ear vein using the Seldinger technique. Part 1 (n = 27): optimal puncture site was based on the deltoid tuberosity as a landmark to reach the external jugular vein. The final position of the catheter was verified in 25 piglets using computer tomography. Catheterization time was recorded and patency of the catheter assessed by repeated blood sampling for up to 4 h. Part 2 (n = 19): ear vein catheterization was without taking into account any landmarks. Functionality for blood sampling was evaluated as described in part 1. Catheter advancement was possible in 25/27 and 18/19 piglets in parts 1 and 2, respectively. Median (range) time required for successful catheterization was 1.95 (1-10) min (n = 38). The deltoid tuberosity was a good landmark to reach the external jugular vein. But blood sampling was also possible through catheters ending slightly cranial to the external jugular vein. Despite successful catheter advancement, blood sampling was not possible from one catheter in each part of the study (total: two piglets). One of these catheters presented luminal damage, while the other one presented as normal after being removed from the animal. Summarizing, central vein catheterization through the ear vein was feasible in 93.5% and repeated blood sampling was possible in 89.1% of the piglets (n = 46).

Prediction of parturition date in the bitch and queen.

Assessment of gestational age and parturition date prediction is a challenging, yet common task in clinical management of the pregnant bitch or queen. Knowing the approximate parturition date is essential for a thorough pregnancy monitoring. Radiographic and ultrasonographic methods are suitable in bitches and queens. In the bitch, moreover, ovulation timing by means of LH or progesterone assay, determination of onset of vaginal dioestrus by means of examination of vaginal cytology, and recognition of impending parturition by monitoring prepartal progesterone levels and body temperature variation are practical methods. A combination of different methods increases the accuracy of parturition date prediction.

Computed tomography of the abdomen in Saanen goats: III. kidneys, ureters and urinary bladder.

This study describes the findings of computed tomography (CT) of the kidneys, ureters, urinary bladder and adrenal glands in 28 healthy female Saanen goats. CT examination and anatomical slice preparation postmortem was performed as described in the first communication. After subjective evaluation of the CT images, various variables including the size, volume and density of the kidneys, the diameter of the ureters and the size of the adrenal glands were measured. The targeted organs could be accurately visualised using CT and there was very good topographical agreement between the CT images and the anatomical preparations. The kidneys, renal vessels, ureters, urinary bladder and adrenal glands were seen in all goats.

Computed tomography of the abdomen in Saanen goats: I. reticulum, rumen and omasum.

Computed tomography (CT) of the reticulum, rumen and omasum was carried out in 30 healthy goats and the images were compared to corresponding body sections obtained at postmortem. A multidetector CT was used to examine goats in sternal recumbency. A setting of 120 KV and 270 mA was used to produce 1.5-mm transverse slices from the fifth thoracic vertebra to the sacrum. Soft tissue structures were assessed in a soft tissue with a window width (W) of 400 Hounsfield Units (HU), and a window level (L) of 40 HU. The layering of the ruminal contents was assessed in an ingesta window with a W of 1500 HU and an L of 30 HU. After subjective evaluation, the size of the rumen and omasum, the thickness of the walls of the reticulum, rumen and omasum and the height of the gas cap and fibre and liquid phases of the rumen were measured. Fifteen goats were euthanised after CT examination, placed in sternal recumbency and frozen at -18 ºC for three to 10 days. Thirteen goats were then cut into 1.0- to 1.5-cm-thick transverse slices. One goat was cut in dorsal-plane slices and another in sagittal slices. The structures in the CT images were identified by using the corresponding anatomical slices.

Computed tomography of the abdomen in Saanen goats: II. liver, spleen, abomasum, and intestine.

This study describes the results of computed tomography (CT) of the liver, spleen, abomasum, small intestine and large intestine in 30 healthy Saanen goats. CT examination and anatomical slice preparation postmortem were performed as described in the first communication. After subjective evaluation of the CT images, various variables including the length/size, volume and density of the liver, spleen and gallbladder, the wall thickness of the abomasum, small intestine and large intestine and the diameter of the intestine were measured. The liver, spleen, abomasum, small intestine and large intestine could be accurately visualised using CT.

[Ultrasonography of the lung in calves]. / Überblick über die Ultraschallunter­suchung der Lunge beim Kalb.

INTRODUCTION: This paper reviews the technique used for thoracic -ultrasonography of the bovine lower respiratory tract and the ultrasonographic findings in calves with -bronchopneumonia. Studies that compare the results of auscultation with those of ultrasonography and postmortem examination are included as are studies that examine the relationship between ultrasonographic findings and bacterial lung infection and prognosis. Lesions associated with bronchopneumonia, pleuropneumonia, pneumothorax and lung abscesses are -easily imaged ultrasonographically and characterised in calves.

INTRODUCTION: Cet article passe en revue la technique utilisée pour l'échographie des voies respiratoires inférieures des bovins et les résultats de l'échographie chez les veaux atteints de bronchopneumonie. Les études qui comparent les résultats de l'auscultation à ceux de l'échographie et de l'examen post mortem sont incluses, tout comme les études qui étudient la relation entre les résultats de l'échographie et l'infection pulmonaire bactérienne ainsi que le pronostic. Les lésions associées à la bronchopneumonie, à la pleuropneumonie, au pneumothorax et aux abcès pulmonaires sont facilement imagées par échographie et caractérisées chez les veaux.

[Ultrasonographic and computed tomographic findings in a goat with mediastinal lymphocytic thymoma]. / Ultraschall- und CT-Befunde bei einer Ziege mit Thymom im Mediastinum.

This case report describes the clinical, sonographic, computed tomographic and pathological findings in a 9-year-old goat with mediastinal lymphocytic thymoma. The goat was referred to the Department of Farm Animals because of weight loss and dyspnoea. The lead clinical findings were increased heart rate, increased respiratory rate and heart sounds heard only on the right side. Ultrasonographic examination revealed a massive amount of fluid and an echogenic corrugated mass ventral to the lungs in the thoracic cavity on the left side. Computed tomography showed that the mass was very large and diffusely mineralised. A tentative diagnosis of mediastinal neoplasia was made, and the goat was euthanized. Postmortem examination revealed a cauliflower-like, pedunculated tumour, which occupied the entire left thoracic cavity and displaced the left lung. Based on histological evaluation, the tumour was diagnosed as a lymphocytic thymoma.

An unusual cause of traumatic reticulitis/reticuloperitonitis in a herd of Swiss dairy cows nearby an airport.

This report describes the findings in five cows from one dairy herd, in which all 31 cows were slaughtered or euthanised because of traumatic reticuloperitonitis. All the cows had numerous thin sharp pieces of metal attached to a magnet in the reticulum, giving the magnet a hedgehog-like appearance. Investigation revealed that the cattle had eaten forage harvested from a field immediately adjacent to an airport. The snow was cleared from the airport runways with a machine that had a wire-bristle brush attachment. Mechanical wear resulted in numerous wire bristles breaking and these were blown with the snow onto the field in question. The wire then became accidentally incorporated into the hay and grass silage at harvest the next summer and was ingested by the cattle in the fall and winter. To prevent further cases, approximately 200 tonnes of hay and grass silage contaminated with wire were discarded and 30 hectares of the 50-hectare field were cultivated and re-sown. The wire-bristles of the snow plow were replaced with plastic bristles. The cost of this and the livestock loss was several hundred thousand Swiss Francs.

Remission of diabetes mellitus in cats with diabetic ketoacidosis.

BACKGROUND: Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) has long been considered a key clinical feature of type-1 diabetes mellitus (DM) in humans although. An increasing number of cases of ketoacidosis have been reported in people with type-2 DM. HYPOTHESIS/OBJECTIVES: Cats initially diagnosed with DKA can achieve remission from diabetes. Cats with DKA and diabetic remission are more likely to have been administered glucocorticoids before diagnosis. ANIMALS: Twelve cats with DKA and 7 cats with uncomplicated DM. METHODS: Retrospective case review. Medical records of cats presenting with DKA or DM were evaluated. Diabetic remission was defined as being clinically unremarkable for at least 1 month after insulin withdrawal. The cats were assigned to 1 of 3 groups: (1) cats with DKA and diabetic remission; (2) cats with DKA without diabetic remission; and (3) cats with DM and diabetic remission. RESULTS: Seven cats with DKA had remission from diabetes. These cats had significantly higher concentrations of leukocytes and segmented neutrophils, and significantly lower concentrations of eosinophils in blood and had pancreatic disease more often than did cats with uncomplicated DM and diabetic remission. With regard to pretreatment, 3/7 cats in group 1, 1/5 cats in group 2, and 1/7 cats in group 3 had been treated with glucocorticoids. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE: Remission of DM in cats presenting with DKA is possible. Cats with DKA and remission have more components of a stress leucogram, pancreatic disease, and seemed to be treated more often with glucocorticoids than cats with uncomplicated DM and diabetic remission.

Contrast harmonic imaging characterization of canine splenic lesions.

BACKGROUND: Although B-mode ultrasound is very sensitive for the detection of splenic lesions, its specificity is low. Contrast harmonic imaging is used successfully to differentiate benign from malignant liver lesions in humans and dogs. HYPOTHESIS: Contrast harmonic imaging could be useful to differentiate benign and malignant splenic lesions in dogs. ANIMALS: Sixty dogs (clinical patients) with splenic abnormalities detected during abdominal ultrasonography. METHODS: A prospective study was performed with a Philips ATL 5000 unit for contrast pulse inversion harmonic imaging (mechanical index: 0.08, contrast medium: SonoVue). Perfusion was assessed subjectively and quantitatively. RESULTS: Cytology or histology identified 27 benign (hyperplasia, extramedullary hematopoiesis, hematoma) and 29 malignant (hemangiosarcoma, malignant lymphoma, malignant histiocytosis, mesenchymal tumors without classification, mast cell tumors, and others) lesions and 4 normal spleens. Except for 1 benign nodule, extensive to moderate hypoechogenicity was only seen in malignant lesions during wash-in, at peak enhancement, and during wash-out (P= .0001, odds ratios: 37.9 [95% CI 4.5-316.5], 66.4 [95% CI 8.0-551.1], and 36.9 [95% CI 4.4-308.4]). Although all but 1 benign lesion enhanced well and were mildly hypo-, iso-, or hyperechoic in comparison with the normal spleen during all blood pool phases, marked enhancement occurred both in benign as well as in malignant splenic lesions. Quantitative perfusion values did not differ significantly between benign and malignant lesions. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE: Moderate to extensive hypoechogenicity clearly identifies canine splenic malignant lesions. In nodules with marked enhancement, contrast harmonic ultrasound is of limited value and histology is needed.

Contrast-enhanced power and color Doppler ultrasonography of the pancreas in healthy and diseased cats.

BACKGROUND: The diagnosis of feline pancreatic disease is difficult, because clinical abnormalities and routine noninvasive diagnostic tests are unreliable. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to investigate by Doppler ultrasonography if vascularity and blood volume differs in the otherwise ultrasonographically normal and diseased feline pancreas. ANIMALS: Thirty-six client owned cats. METHODS: The pancreas was examined with B-mode and contrast-enhanced color and power Doppler ultrasonography. Doppler images were analyzed with a computer program: parameter fractional area represents a vascularity index and color-weighted fractional area assesses blood volume. RESULTS: Based on the B-mode findings, the pancreas was considered normal in 11 clinically healthy cats and diseased in 25 cats of which 4 were clinically healthy and 21 had clinical signs consistent with pancreatic disease. Histologic or cytologic samples were taken in all diseased pancreata. Fifteen samples were of diagnostic quality: purulent or mixed cellular inflammation (8), nodular hyperplasia (4), and neoplasia (3) were identified. Vascularity and blood volume for all Doppler methods was significantly higher in cats with pancreatic disease. Significantly higher Doppler values were detected with power Doppler than with color Doppler, and with postcontrast color and power Doppler than with precontrast Doppler technologies. CONCLUSION: Contrast-enhanced Doppler ultrasonography appears feasible in the feline pancreas. Significant differences were found between normal cats and those with evidence of pancreatic pathology. Further studies are needed to evaluate its use for the differentiation of pancreatic disorders and in cats suspected to have pancreatic disease but without B-mode ultrasonographic changes of the pancreas.