The relationships among Leishmania infantum and phyllostomid bats assessed by histopathological and molecular assays.

Bats have been reported as reservoir host of Leishmania spp. worldwide, mostly by molecular detection. However, it is still unclear whether bats act as reservoirs of Leishmania infantum to sandflies vectors. In this sense, the investigation of amastigotes forms in the target organs, and the characterization of their associated inflammation, may help to clarify the epidemiological importance of bats in endemic areas for leishmaniasis. The aim of this work was to investigate the host-parasite relationships under microscopic evaluation and predict the epidemiological role of two phyllostomid bats species naturally infected by L. infantum in an endemic area for human leishmaniasis. Fragments of skin, liver and spleen of L. infantum positive and negative bats (Artibeus planirostris and Carollia perspicillata) by qPCR, were studied by histological and immunohistochemical techniques. Both groups, positive and negative, did not show differences in the histopathological study, presenting only discrete tissue changes. Liver and skin showed mild inflammatory reactions. Findings on spleen consisted of reactivity of the lymphoid follicles, expressive presence of apoptotic cells and macrophages containing abundant phagocytic cells debris. We did not find amastigote forms in tissues by histological and IHC techniques in positive qPCR bats. Our results allow us to hypothesize that phyllostomid bats seem to have an important role in reducing the risk of transmission, possibly acting as dead-end host.

Histopathological, immunohistochemical and molecular analyses of foetuses from a female dog naturally infected by Leishmania (Leishmania) infantum - Case report.

This report presents anatomo-histopathological, immunohistochemical and molecular analyses of an asymptomatic female dog naturally infected with Leishmania (Leishmania) infantum and her four pups. In addition to routine serological tests, the mother's positivity was confirmed by real-time PCR of a bone marrow sample; the placenta and ovaries, however, were negative with the same analysis. The pups presented no positivity in any of the techniques used. It is suggested that the gestational period and factors related to the female's immunological condition cause greater variability in the occurrence of vertical infection.

Metastatic vulvar squamous cell carcinoma in a mare

Background: Squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is a common cutaneous neoplasm in horses, which mainly affects the external genitalia, oral cavity, and periocular region. The development of SCC metastases is rare in these animals, and the most common occurrence is a marked local infiltration. Exposure to ultraviolet rays and skin depigmentation are the main etiological factors of SCC. Definitive diagnosis of the neoplasm is performed through histological examination of lesions. The present report describes the clinical, anatomopathological, and immunohistochemical (IHC) aspects of a case of metastatic SCC, with the vulva as the primary site in a mare. Case: A 17-year-old mare, mixed breed, was referred to the Veterinary Hospital of the Universidade de Passo Fundo (UPF), with history of areas of depigmented skin (pinto coat), and clinical history of anorexia, frequent episodes of colic, and recumbency. During clinical evaluation, heart rate (68 bpm), rectal temperature (38.4ºC), and respiratory rate (48 mpm) were elevated, and the oral mucosa was pale. The mare also had an ulcerated tumor mass involving the vulva, which extended to the inguinal region and involved the mammary gland. A cytological aspirate of the vulvar tumor was performed, in which no neoplastic cells were found. Next, a biopsy of 2 distinct areas of the vulva was performed. The material was sent for anatomopathological examination, which showed markedly pleomorphic malignant squamous cells, with individual keratinization and high mitotic index, organized in trabeculae with rare keratin pearl-like formations. The exam allowed the diagnosis of SCC Grade II. Due to the poor prognosis and high cost of treatment, the owner consented to euthanasia and necropsy examination. During necropsy, the vulvar tumor mass was grayish, firm to hard, infiltrative, and had friable areas. Tumor foci suggestive of metastasis were also observed in inguinal, mesenteric, mediastinal and renal lymph nodes, adrenal glands, lung, pericardium, medullary canal, intercostal muscles, right 15th rib, and tissue surrounding the azygos vein. Samples from all organs were collected for anatomopathological examination. Diagnosis of metastatic vulvar SCC was confirmed through histological and IHC studies, which evaluated the expression of cytokeratins (AE1/ AE3), as well as the proliferative activity of neoplastic cells through the PCNA marker. Discussion: The diagnosis of metastatic SCC was obtained through the observed clinical, necroscopic, histological, and IHC characteristics. This neoplasm usually appears in depigmented regions exposed to ultraviolet light, and older animals are more likely to be affected. The mare in the present case had areas of depigmented skin (pinto coat). The animal was kept in a paddock outdoor and exposed to constant solar radiation. Although rare in horses, manifestation of anorexia, progressive weight loss, and frequent colic episodes and recumbency may be closely related to the multiple sites of metastasis in the present case. The main histological findings of the neoplasm were the dense proliferation of malignant squamous cells with individual keratinization, arranged in a trabecular pattern and with rare formations of keratin pearls, in line with previous studies. During IHC evaluation, the neoplastic cells showed expression of cytokeratins (AE1/AE3), as well as high proliferative activity evidenced by the PCNA marker. Given this background, the present report describes the clinical, anatomopathological, and IHC aspects of a case of metastatic SCC with a primary site in the vulva of a mare.

Non jaagsiekte retrovirus associated adenosquamous lung carcinoma in a goat

An 11-year-old pet goat presented a clinical history of acute respiratory distress with ultrasound diagnosis of wide lung injury. The animal was euthanized due to welfare reasons. At necropsy, it was found pleural effusion and adhesion on the right cranioventral thoracic region. The right cranial and middle lung lobes were firm and light gray with a neocavity containing purulent exudate. From the middle lobe, there was a nodular proliferation occupying alveolar spaces, densely cellular and composed by cuboid-columnar epithelial cells arranged in papillae and acini (60%), as well as polygonal cells arranged in nests with squamous differentiation (40%). Marked pleomorphism, anisocytosis and anisocariosis were also noted. A total of 39 mitosis figures for ten fields at 400x magnification were counted. Lung samples were negative for jaagsiekte retrovirus (JSRV) by PCR. Immunostaining for TTF1 and P53 occurred in zones of adenomatous and squamous differentiation, respectively. In MIB-1, 14% (82/594) of immunolabeled cells were observed in the squamous component. In conclusion, the histopathological and immunohistochemical characteristics confirmed the diagnosis of a pulmonary adenosquamous carcinoma, without JSRV involvement, in goat species.(AU)

PGAM1 and TP53 mRNA levels in canine mammary carcinomas - Short communication.

TP53 and PGAM1 genes play a key role in glycolysis which is an essential metabolic pathway of cancer cells for obtaining energy. The purpose of this work was to evaluate PGAM1 and TP53 mRNA expressions in canine mammary carcinomas (CMC) and to correlate them with animal data and tumour histological features. None of the nine samples analysed revealed PGAM1 DNA sequence variations. PGAM1 and TP53 RNA expressions from 21 CMC were analysed using a one-step reverse transcription-PCR kit and its platform system. Most CMC samples had low levels of PGAM1 mRNA (71.5%) and normal expression of TP53 mRNA (95.2%). Our results suggest a different feature of the Warburg effect on canine mammary cancer cells compared to human cells.

Immunohistochemical expression of HER - 2 and Ki - 67 in granulosa cell tumor in bitches.

Granulosa cell tumour, an ovarian neoplasm of stromal origin, is an important tumour related to oestrogenic dominance syndrome and cystic endometrial hyperplasia-pyometra complex. In order to analyse ovarian tumour´s malignant potential, immunohistochemical markers can be used, such as anti-HER2 and anti-Ki-67. The aim of this study was to evaluate the expression of immunohistochemical markers HER-2 and Ki-67 in granulosa cell tumour from bitches´ ovaries. In HER-2 immunomarker analysis using the HercepTest® method, most tumours were classified as 2+ (moderate labelling). Concerning Ki-67 immunomarker, only one case was described as having a high proliferative index. An association was found between immunostained cell percentage by anti-HER-2 antibodies and high pleomorphism, represented by the pattern of follicular/trabecular tumour arrangement. There was no correlation between anti-Ki-67 and anti-HER-2 antibody immunostaining intensities, probably due to only one case with a high Ki-67 index. With an effective protocol for HER-2 and Ki-67 immunohistochemical identification in granulosa cell tumours in bitches, it was possible to characterize this neoplasm proliferation profile.

Esporotricose felina: um relato de caso de disseminação cutânea e sistêmica em gato negativo para FIV e FeLV / Feline sporotrichosis: a case report of cutaneous and systemic dissemination in cat negative for FIV and FeLV

A esporotricose é uma zoonose causada por fungos do gênero Sporothrix. Os gatos doentes têm importante potencial zoonótico e frequentemente revelam uma apresentação disseminada da doença. O objetivo deste relato de caso é descrever as características clínicas e anatomopatológicas de um caso de esporotricose felina refratária ao tratamento com apresentação clínica cutânea disseminada e sistêmica. Um felino macho de 3 anos de idade foi tratado para esporotricose com itraconazol e obteve resolução completa das lesões cutâneas. Porém, um ano após alta clínica, o animal apresentou aumento e ulceração da região nasal. Após cultura fúngica positiva para Sporothrix spp foi instituído tratamento com itraconazol 100mg associado ao iodeto de potássio 20mg por via oral diariamente e transcorrido 3 meses de tratamento, foi observada piora progressiva do sinais clínicos com disseminação de lesões para outras regiões do corpo. O animal foi submetido à eutanásia e encaminhado para necrópsia no Serviço de Anatomia Patológica da Faculdade de Veterinária da Universidade Federal Fluminense. Amostras da língua, pulmão, fígado, baço, rim, cérebro, linfonodo e pele foram coletadas para evidência de disseminação do agente fúngico e avaliação de alterações microscópicas. A coloração de metenamina de prata de Grocott foi utilizada para facilitar a visualização de leveduras sugestivas de Sporothrix spp nos cortes histológicos. Leveduras foram visualizadas em amostras de pele, língua, linfonodo, rim, fígado, baço e cérebro. No presente relato a disseminação do Sporothrixspp para diversos órgãos sinaliza a necessidade de uma minuciosa investigação dos casos graves de esporotricose felina para o tratamento adequado.

Sporotrichosis is a zoonosis caused by fungi of the genus Sporothrix. Sick cats have an significant zoonotic potential and often show a widespread presentation of the disease. The purpose of this case report is to describe the clinical and anatomopathological characteristics of a case of feline sporotrichosis refractory to treatment with disseminated and systemic cutaneous clinical presentation. A 3-year-old male feline was treated for sporotrichosis with itraconazole and achieved complete resolution of the skin lesions. However, one year after clinical discharge, the animal presented an increase and ulceration of the nasal region. After a positive fungal culture for Sporothrix spp, treatment with itraconazole 100mg associated with potassium iodide 20mg was instituted orally daily and after 3 months of treatment, a progressive worsening of the symptoms was observed with the spread of lesions to other regions of the body. The animal was euthanized and sent for necropsy at the Pathological Anatomy Service of the Veterinary Faculty of Universidade Federal Fluminense. Samples of the tongue, lung, liver, spleen, kidney, brain, lymph node, and skin were collected for evidence of spread of the fungal agent and evaluation of microscopic changes. Grocott silver methenamine staining was used to facilitate the visualization of yeasts suggestive of Sporothrix spp in histological sections. Yeasts were visualized in samples of skin, tongue, lymph node, kidney, liver, spleen, and brain. In the present report, the spread of Sporothrix spp to different organs signals the need for a thorough investigation of severe cases of feline sporotrichosis for the proper treatment.

Esporotricose felina: um relato de caso de disseminação cutânea e sistêmica em gato negativo para FIV e FeLV / Feline sporotrichosis: a case report of cutaneous and systemic dissemination in cat negative for FIV and FeLV

A esporotricose é uma zoonose causada por fungos do gênero Sporothrix. Os gatos doentes têm importante potencial zoonótico e frequentemente revelam uma apresentação disseminada da doença. O objetivo deste relato de caso é descrever as características clínicas e anatomopatológicas de um caso de esporotricose felina refratária ao tratamento com apresentação clínica cutânea disseminada e sistêmica. Um felino macho de 3 anos de idade foi tratado para esporotricose com itraconazol e obteve resolução completa das lesões cutâneas. Porém, um ano após alta clínica, o animal apresentou aumento e ulceração da região nasal. Após cultura fúngica positiva para Sporothrix spp foi instituído tratamento com itraconazol 100mg associado ao iodeto de potássio 20mg por via oral diariamente e transcorrido 3 meses de tratamento, foi observada piora progressiva do sinais clínicos com disseminação de lesões para outras regiões do corpo. O animal foi submetido à eutanásia e encaminhado para necrópsia no Serviço de Anatomia Patológica da Faculdade de Veterinária da Universidade Federal Fluminense. Amostras da língua, pulmão, fígado, baço, rim, cérebro, linfonodo e pele foram coletadas para evidência de disseminação do agente fúngico e avaliação de alterações microscópicas. A coloração de metenamina de prata de Grocott foi utilizada para facilitar a visualização de leveduras sugestivas de Sporothrix spp

Sporotrichosis is a zoonosis caused by fungi of the genus Sporothrix. Sick cats have an significant zoonotic potential and often show a widespread presentation of the disease. The purpose of this case report is to describe the clinical and anatomopathological characteristics of a case of feline sporotrichosis refractory to treatment with disseminated and systemic cutaneous clinical presentation. A 3-year-old male feline was treated for sporotrichosis with itraconazole and achieved complete resolution of the skin lesions. However, one year after clinical discharge, the animal presented an increase and ulceration of the nasal region. After a positive fungal culture for Sporothrix spp, treatment with itraconazole 100mg associated with potassium iodide 20mg was instituted orally daily and after 3 months of treatment, a progressive worsening of the symptoms was observed with the spread of lesions to other regions of the body. The animal was euthanized and sent for necropsy at the Pathological Anatomy Service of the Veterinary Faculty of Universidade Federal Fluminense. Samples of the tongue, lung, liver, spleen, kidney, brain, lymph node, and skin were collected for evidence of spread of the fungal agent and evaluation of microscopic changes. Grocott silver methenamine staining was used to facilitate the visualization of yeasts suggestive of Sporothrix spp in histological sections. Yeasts were visualized in samples of skin, tongue, lymph node, kidney, liver, spleen, and brain. In the present report, the spread of Sporothrix spp to different organs signals the need for a thorough investigation of severe cases of feline sporotrichosis for the proper treatment.

The sensitivity of Demodex canis (Acari: Demodicidae) to the essential oil of Melaleuca alternifolia - an in vitro study.

The essential oil of the Melaleuca alternifolia (Maiden & Betche) (tea tree oil) has been effective in previous studies, in the treatment of infestation by Demodex mites in humans. The present study aimed at evaluating the in vitro acaricidal effect of this herbal medicine on Demodex canis. For the parasitological examination, samples were collected from a dog's skin and examined using optical microscopy. Only samples with intact mites and with evident movement of chelicerae and tarsi were selected. Twenty-one samples were tested with the oil, in seven different concentrations: 100%; 50%; 25%; 12.5%; 6.25%; 5.0% and 3.13%. Three samples were tested with the positive control amitraz, and three with the negative control neutral shampoo. The interval between the time the solution was added and the moment the movement of the last mite ceased defined the survival time in the sample. By comparing the times at different concentrations and controls, the results showed that the higher the concentration of the oil, the more quickly its lethal effect occurred, and that the survival times in the controls were longer than in the different concentrations of melaleuca oil.

Histopathological study of canine sebaceous tumors and their association with PCNA expression by immunohistochemistry / Estudo histopatológico de tumores sebáceos caninos e sua associação com a expressão de PCNA por imuno-histoquímica

Sebaceous tumors are common in dogs. These tumors include both benign and malignant lesions. Immunohistochemical evaluation of these tumors can aggregate information regarding the origin and degree of malignancy of the lesions. Focusing on this matter, sixty-one samples including normal skin and sebaceous tumors were selected from dogs of various breeds and ages, with no predilection for sex, from the archive of Veterinary Pathology Service of Federal Fluminense University, Niterói/RJ, Brazil. The samples underwent to histological processing, routine staining and immunohistochemistry with anti-PCNA (proliferating cell nuclear antigen). Descriptive statistical analysis was performed, the Wilcoxon-Mann-Whitney test was used to compare the distribution of anti-PCNA labelling in different groups of variables. In case there were more than two groups, the Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) test was performed. The mean age of the affected animals was 10.56 years. The most affected breeds were Caniches and Cocker Spaniels, as well as mixed breed animals. There was immunostaining of PCNA in both benign and malignant tumors, as well as in hyperplasic lesions with varying intensity. Most of the tumors were neoplasms which represented 67.27% of the total sample; within these, 75.00% were benign. The most frequent neoplasm was sebaceous adenoma (37.74%). Results indicated no statistical difference in the distribution of anti-PCNA labelling between the groups of sex, age, reproductive status, localization, size of tumor, and histopathological diagnosis. Although there are not many studies analyzing anti-PCNA labelling in sebaceous tumors, several of them pointed out to the predictive value in other neoplasms. With this matter in mind, we intended to evaluate the expression of anti-PCNA in canine sebaceous tumor and a possible association with the malignancy of the lesions.

Tumores sebáceos são comuns em cães. Tais tumores incluem lesões benignas e malignas. A avaliação imunohistoquímica desses tumores pode agregar informações sobre a origem e o grau de malignidade das lesões. Para este fim, sessenta e uma amostras, incluindo pele normal e tumores sebáceos foram selecionadas de cães de várias raças e idades, sem predileção por sexo, do arquivo do Serviço de Patologia Veterinária da Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niterói/RJ, Brasil. As amostras passaram por processamento histológico, coloração de rotina e imuno-histoquímica com anti-PCNA (proliferating cell nuclear antigen). Foram realizadas análises estatísticas descritivas além dos testes de Wilcoxon-Mann-Whitney para comparar a distribuição da marcação de anti-PCNA entre grupos de variáveis. Para variáveis com mais de dois grupos, aplicou-se a Análise de Variância (ANOVA). A idade média dos animais afetados foi de 10.56 anos. As raças mais afetadas foram Caniches e Cocker Spaniel, e ainda animais sem raça definida. Houve imunomarcação de PCNA em tumores benignos, malignos, e ainda em lesões hiperplásicas com intensidade variada. A maioria dos tumores eram neoplásicos representando 67.92% do total; destes, 75.00% eram benignos. O adenoma sebáceo foi a neoplasia mais frequente (37.74%). Não foram encontradas diferenças significativas nas distribuições de anti-PCNA entre os grupos das variáveis sexo, idade, status reprodutivo, localização e tamanho do tumor e diagnóstico histopatológico. Embora não haja estudos com anti-PCNA em tumores sebáceos caninos, numerosas publicações apontam seu valor preditivo em outras neoplasias. Com isso, a finalidade deste estudo foi avaliar a expressão de anti-PCNA em tumores sebáceos caninos e sua possível associação com a malignidade das lesões.

Histopathological study of canine sebaceous tumors and their association with PCNA expression by immunohistochemistry / Estudo histopatológico de tumores sebáceos caninos e sua associação com a expressão de PCNA por imuno-histoquímica

Sebaceous tumors are common in dogs and include benign and malignant lesions. The increase in immunohistochemical evaluation of sebaceous tumors aggregates information regarding the origin and degree of malignancy of the lesions. The objective of this study was to evaluate PCNA immunohistochemical expression of  sebaceous tumors in dogs. Sixty-one samples include normal skin and sebaceous tumors were selected from dogs of various breeds and ages, no gender predilection, sent to the Veterinary Pathology Service of Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niterói/RJ, Brazil. Samples passed through histological processing, routine staining and immunostaining from PCNA. Descriptive statistical analysis, Wilcoxon-Mann-Whitney and Fishers exact test were performed. The mean age of the affected animals was 10.56 years. There was no sexual predilection. Breeds more frequently affected were: Poodles, mixed-breed dogs and Cocker Spaniels. Most of the tumors were neoplasms (67.27%), and 75.67% of those were benign. Sebaceous adenoma was the most frequent neoplasm (56.75%). PCNA immunoexpression was present in hyperplasia, benign and malignant tumors. No previous studies were found using PCNA antibody in sebaceous tumors of dogs. Thus, more studies are needed to provide greater clarity regarding the role of these markers on normal skin and sebaceous tumors of dogs, as well as their use as prognos

Tumores sebáceos são comuns em cães. Tais tumores incluem lesões benignas e malignas. A avaliação imunohistoquímica desses tumores pode agregar informações sobre a origem e o grau de malignidade das lesões. Para este fim, sessenta e uma amostras, incluindo pele normal e tumores sebáceos foram selecionadas de cães de várias raças e idades, sem predileção por sexo, do arquivo do Serviço de Patologia Veterinária da Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niterói/RJ, Brasil. As amostras passaram por processamento histológico, coloração de rotina e imuno-histoquímica com anti-PCNA (proliferating cell nuclear antigen). Foram realizadas análises estatísticas descritivas além dos testes de Wilcoxon-Mann-Whitney para comparar a distribuição da marcação de anti-PCNA entre grupos de variáveis. Para variáveis com mais de dois grupos, aplicou-se a Análise de Variância (ANOVA). A idade média dos animais afetados foi de 10.56 anos. As raças mais afetadas foram Caniches e Cocker Spaniel, e ainda animais sem raça definida. Houve imunomarcação de PCNA em tumores benignos, malignos, e ainda em lesões hiperplásicas com intensidade variada. A maioria dos tumores eram neoplásicos representando 67.92% do total; destes, 75.00% eram benignos. O adenoma sebáceo foi a neoplasia mais frequente (37.74%). Não foram encontradas diferenças significativas nas distribuições de anti-PCNA entre os grupos das variáveis sexo, idade, status reprodutivo, localização e tamanho do tumor e diagnóstico histopatológico. Embora não haja estudos com anti-PCNA em tumores sebáceos caninos, numerosas publicações apontam seu valor preditivo em outras neoplasias. Com isso, a finalidade deste estudo foi avaliar a expressão de anti-PCNA em tumores sebáceos caninos e sua possível associação com a malignidade das lesões.

Seroprevalence and risk factors associated with Neospora caninum in commercial sheep from northwest of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil / Soroprevalência e fatores de risco associados a Neospora caninum em ovinos comerciais do noroeste do Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil

Neospora caninum is a widely distributed parasite, which significantly impacts reproduction in ruminants. This study aimed to survey the seroprevalence and risk factors associated with neosporosis infection in commercial herds of sheep in the northwest of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. Three hundred sheep serum samples were used to investigate anti-N. caninum antibodies using indirect immunofluorescence reaction at a 1:40 dilution. The presence of anti-N. caninum antibodies was detected in 20.3% (61/300) of the samples evaluated; however, positive reactions were observed in all (13/13) flocks sampled. Sheep breeds > 1 year of age had 1.2-fold higher risk for infection with N. caninum (odds ratio 2.2 [95% confidence interval 1-5.1]; P < 0.001). These findings should raise awareness on the importance of serological screening, identification of risk factors, and maintenance of preventive measures, such as not allowing dogs to contact sheep feed and not offering the placental remains of ruminants to canids.(AU)

Neospora caninum é um parasita amplamente distribuído e de grande importância para a reprodução de ruminantes. O objetivo deste estudo foi realizar um levantamento da soroprevalência e dos fatores de risco associados à neosporose em rebanhos comerciais de ovinos no noroeste do Rio Grande do Sul. Foram utilizadas 300 amostras de soro de ovelhas para investigar anti-N. caninum por Reação de Imunofluorescência Indireta (IFAT) com uma diluição de 1:40. A presença de anticorpos anti-N. caninum foi detectada em 20.3 % (61/300) das amostras avaliadas. Reações positivas foram observadas em todos (13/13) os rebanhos amostrados. Ovinos com mais de um ano tiveram 1.2 mais chances de serem infectados por N. caninum (odds ratio 2.2, intervalo de confiança 1-5.1) (P < 0.001). Com esses dados, chamamos atenção para a importância da triagem sorológica, identificação de fatores de risco e manutenção de medidas de prevalência, como não permitir que os cães entrem em contato com a alimentação das ovelhas e não oferecer os restos placentários dos ruminantes aos canídeos.(AU)

Seroprevalence and risk factors associated with Neospora caninum in commercial sheep from northwest of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil / Soroprevalência e fatores de risco associados a Neospora caninum em ovinos comerciais do noroeste do Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil

Neospora caninum is a widely distributed parasite, which significantly impacts reproduction in ruminants. This study aimed to survey the seroprevalence and risk factors associated with neosporosis infection in commercial herds of sheep in the northwest of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. Three hundred sheep serum samples were used to investigate anti-N. caninum antibodies using indirect immunofluorescence reaction at a 1:40 dilution. The presence of anti-N. caninum antibodies was detected in 20.3% (61/300) of the samples evaluated; however, positive reactions were observed in all (13/13) flocks sampled. Sheep breeds > 1 year of age had 1.2-fold higher risk for infection with N. caninum (odds ratio 2.2 [95% confidence interval 1-5.1]; P < 0.001). These findings should raise awareness on the importance of serological screening, identification of risk factors, and maintenance of preventive measures, such as not allowing dogs to contact sheep feed and not offering the placental remains of ruminants to canids.

Neospora caninum é um parasita amplamente distribuído e de grande importância para a reprodução de ruminantes. O objetivo deste estudo foi realizar um levantamento da soroprevalência e dos fatores de risco associados à neosporose em rebanhos comerciais de ovinos no noroeste do Rio Grande do Sul. Foram utilizadas 300 amostras de soro de ovelhas para investigar anti-N. caninum por Reação de Imunofluorescência Indireta (IFAT) com uma diluição de 1:40. A presença de anticorpos anti-N. caninum foi detectada em 20.3 % (61/300) das amostras avaliadas. Reações positivas foram observadas em todos (13/13) os rebanhos amostrados. Ovinos com mais de um ano tiveram 1.2 mais chances de serem infectados por N. caninum (odds ratio 2.2, intervalo de confiança 1-5.1) (P < 0.001). Com esses dados, chamamos atenção para a importância da triagem sorológica, identificação de fatores de risco e manutenção de medidas de prevalência, como não permitir que os cães entrem em contato com a alimentação das ovelhas e não oferecer os restos placentários dos ruminantes aos canídeos.

Esporotricose felina: um relato de caso de disseminação cutânea e sistêmica em gato negativo para FIV e FeLV / Feline sporotrichosis: a case report of cutaneous and systemic dissemination in cat negative for FIV and FeLV

A esporotricose é uma zoonose causada por fungos do gênero Sporothrix. Os gatos doentes têm importante potencial zoonótico e frequentemente revelam uma apresentação disseminada da doença. O objetivo deste relato de caso é descrever as características clínicas e anatomopatológicas de um caso de esporotricose felina refratária ao tratamento com apresentação clínica cutânea disseminada e sistêmica. Um felino macho de 3 anos de idade foi tratado para esporotricose com itraconazol e obteve resolução completa das lesões cutâneas. Porém, um ano após alta clínica, o animal apresentou aumento e ulceração da região nasal. Após cultura fúngica positiva para Sporothrix spp foi instituído tratamento com itraconazol 100mg associado ao iodeto de potássio 20mg por via oral diariamente e transcorrido 3 meses de tratamento, foi observada piora progressiva do sinais clínicos com disseminação de lesões para outras regiões do corpo. O animal foi submetido à eutanásia e encaminhado para necrópsia no Serviço de Anatomia Patológica da Faculdade de Veterinária da Universidade Federal Fluminense. Amostras da língua, pulmão, fígado, baço, rim, cérebro, linfonodo e pele foram coletadas para evidência de disseminação do agente fúngico e avaliação de alterações microscópicas. A coloração de metenamina de prata de Grocott foi utilizada para facilitar a visualização de leveduras sugestivas de Sporothrix spp(AU)

Sporotrichosis is a zoonosis caused by fungi of the genus Sporothrix. Sick cats have an significant zoonotic potential and often show a widespread presentation of the disease. The purpose of this case report is to describe the clinical and anatomopathological characteristics of a case of feline sporotrichosis refractory to treatment with disseminated and systemic cutaneous clinical presentation. A 3-year-old male feline was treated for sporotrichosis with itraconazole and achieved complete resolution of the skin lesions. However, one year after clinical discharge, the animal presented an increase and ulceration of the nasal region. After a positive fungal culture for Sporothrix spp, treatment with itraconazole 100mg associated with potassium iodide 20mg was instituted orally daily and after 3 months of treatment, a progressive worsening of the symptoms was observed with the spread of lesions to other regions of the body. The animal was euthanized and sent for necropsy at the Pathological Anatomy Service of the Veterinary Faculty of Universidade Federal Fluminense. Samples of the tongue, lung, liver, spleen, kidney, brain, lymph node, and skin were collected for evidence of spread of the fungal agent and evaluation of microscopic changes. Grocott silver methenamine staining was used to facilitate the visualization of yeasts suggestive of Sporothrix spp in histological sections. Yeasts were visualized in samples of skin, tongue, lymph node, kidney, liver, spleen, and brain. In the present report, the spread of Sporothrix spp to different organs signals the need for a thorough investigation of severe cases of feline sporotrichosis for the proper treatment.(AU)

The sensitivity of Demodex canis (Acari: Demodicidae) to the essential oil of Melaleuca alternifolia an in vitro study / A sensibilidade do Demodex canis (Acari: Demodicidae) ao óleo essencial de Melaleuca alternifolia um estudo in vitro

The essential oil of the Melaleuca alternifolia (Maiden & Betche) (tea tree oil) has been effective in previous studies, in the treatment of infestation by Demodex mites in humans. The present study aimed at evaluating the in vitro acaricidal effect of this herbal medicine on Demodex canis. For the parasitological examination, samples were collected from a dogs skin and examined using optical microscopy. Only samples with intact mites and with evident movement of chelicerae and tarsi were selected. Twenty-one samples were tested with the oil, in seven different concentrations: 100%; 50%; 25%; 12.5%; 6.25%; 5.0% and 3.13%. Three samples were tested with the positive control amitraz, and three with the negative control neutral shampoo. The interval between the time the solution was added and the moment the movement of the last mite ceased defined the survival time in the sample. By comparing the times at different concentrations and controls, the results showed that the higher the concentration of the oil, the more quickly its lethal effect occurred, and that the survival times in the controls were longer than in the different concentrations of melaleuca oil.(AU)

O óleo essencial de Melaleuca alternifolia (Maiden & Betche) (óleo da árvore do chá) foi eficaz em estudos anteriores, no tratamento da infestação por ácaros Demodex em humanos. O presente estudo teve por objetivo avaliar o tempo do efeito acaricida, in vitro, desse fitoterápico sobre Demodex canis. Para o exame parasitológico, amostras foram coletadas da pele de um cão e examinadas por microscopia óptica. Apenas amostras com ácaros íntegros e com evidente movimentação de quelíceras e tarsos foram selecionadas. Vinte e uma amostras foram direcionadas para teste com o óleo, em sete concentrações diferentes: 100%; 50%; 25%; 12,5%; 6,25%; 5,0% e 3,13%. Três amostras foram testadas com o controle positivo, amitraz, e três com o controle negativo, xampu neutro. O intervalo entre o momento em que a solução foi adicionada e o instante em que cessou o movimento do último ácaro definiu o tempo de sobrevivência na amostra. Os tempos nas diferentes concentrações e nos controles foram comparados. Quanto mais alta a concentração do óleo, mais rapidamente ocorreu seu efeito letal. Os tempos de sobrevivência nos controles foram maiores que nas diferentes concentrações do óleo de melaleuca.(AU)

Histopathological study of canine sebaceous tumors and their association with PCNA expression by immunohistochemistry / Estudo histopatológico de tumores sebáceos caninos e sua associação com a expressão de PCNA por imuno-histoquímica

Sebaceous tumors are common in dogs and include benign and malignant lesions. The increase in immunohistochemical evaluation of sebaceous tumors aggregates information regarding the origin and degree of malignancy of the lesions. The objective of this study was to evaluate PCNA immunohistochemical expression of  sebaceous tumors in dogs. Sixty-one samples include normal skin and sebaceous tumors were selected from dogs of various breeds and ages, no gender predilection, sent to the Veterinary Pathology Service of Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niterói/RJ, Brazil. Samples passed through histological processing, routine staining and immunostaining from PCNA. Descriptive statistical analysis, Wilcoxon-Mann-Whitney and Fishers exact test were performed. The mean age of the affected animals was 10.56 years. There was no sexual predilection. Breeds more frequently affected were: Poodles, mixed-breed dogs and Cocker Spaniels. Most of the tumors were neoplasms (67.27%), and 75.67% of those were benign. Sebaceous adenoma was the most frequent neoplasm (56.75%). PCNA immunoexpression was present in hyperplasia, benign and malignant tumors. No previous studies were found using PCNA antibody in sebaceous tumors of dogs. Thus, more studies are needed to provide greater clarity regarding the role of these markers on normal skin and sebaceous tumors of dogs, as well as their use as prognos(AU)

Tumores sebáceos são comuns em cães. Tais tumores incluem lesões benignas e malignas. A avaliação imunohistoquímica desses tumores pode agregar informações sobre a origem e o grau de malignidade das lesões. Para este fim, sessenta e uma amostras, incluindo pele normal e tumores sebáceos foram selecionadas de cães de várias raças e idades, sem predileção por sexo, do arquivo do Serviço de Patologia Veterinária da Universidade Federal Fluminense, Niterói/RJ, Brasil. As amostras passaram por processamento histológico, coloração de rotina e imuno-histoquímica com anti-PCNA (proliferating cell nuclear antigen). Foram realizadas análises estatísticas descritivas além dos testes de Wilcoxon-Mann-Whitney para comparar a distribuição da marcação de anti-PCNA entre grupos de variáveis. Para variáveis com mais de dois grupos, aplicou-se a Análise de Variância (ANOVA). A idade média dos animais afetados foi de 10.56 anos. As raças mais afetadas foram Caniches e Cocker Spaniel, e ainda animais sem raça definida. Houve imunomarcação de PCNA em tumores benignos, malignos, e ainda em lesões hiperplásicas com intensidade variada. A maioria dos tumores eram neoplásicos representando 67.92% do total; destes, 75.00% eram benignos. O adenoma sebáceo foi a neoplasia mais frequente (37.74%). Não foram encontradas diferenças significativas nas distribuições de anti-PCNA entre os grupos das variáveis sexo, idade, status reprodutivo, localização e tamanho do tumor e diagnóstico histopatológico. Embora não haja estudos com anti-PCNA em tumores sebáceos caninos, numerosas publicações apontam seu valor preditivo em outras neoplasias. Com isso, a finalidade deste estudo foi avaliar a expressão de anti-PCNA em tumores sebáceos caninos e sua possível associação com a malignidade das lesões.(AU)

Seroprevalence of Leptospira spp. infection in sheep from northwest of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil / Soroprevalência da infecção por Leptospira spp. em ovinos do noroeste do Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil

Leptospirosis is a zoonosis that is widely distributed in tropical countries. This infection is also associated with reproductive losses in livestock, which has a significant economic impact. The objective of this study is to investigate the seroprevalence and risk factors associated with leptospiral infection in commercial sheep flocks from the northwestern mesoregion of Rio Grande do Sul. Serum samples were analyzed in 319 sheep using the Microscopic Agglutination Test (MAT). At the time of sampling, an individual and herd questionnaire was carried out to investigate the risk factors. On an individual level, positive reactions were observed in 5.6% (18/319) of the studied sera, with Sejroe being the most prevalent serogroup. Animals >3 years old were more likely to be seropositive than animals 1-3 years old (OR 14.4; 95% CI 1.9-110). The predominance of Sejroe serogroup in this manner draws attention to how subclinical infection is associated with economic losses. Therefore, the importance of maintaining measures for the prevention and control of leptospirosis among the sheep flocks of the studied region is reiterated.(AU)

A leptospirose é uma zoonose amplamente distribuída em países tropicais. Essa infecção também está associada a perdas reprodutivas na pecuária, apresentando uma relevância econômica notável. O objetivo deste estudo foi investigar a soroprevalência e os fatores de risco associados à infecção por leptospirose em rebanhos comerciais de ovinos da mesorregião noroeste do Rio Grande do Sul. Amostras de soro de 319 ovelhas foram analisadas pelo Teste de Aglutinação Microscópica (MAT). No momento da amostragem foi realizado um questionário individual e de rebanho para investigar os fatores de risco. No nível individual, reações positivas foram observadas em 5.6% (18/319) dos soros estudados, sendo Sejroe o sorogrupo mais prevalente. Animals >3 years old were more likely to be seropositive than animals 1-3 years old (OR 14.4; 95% CI 1.9-110). A predominância do sorogrupo Sejroe chama a atenção para a infecção subclínica associada a perdas econômicas. Portanto, reitera-se a importância da manutenção de medidas de prevenção e controle da leptospirose entre os rebanhos ovinos da região estudada.(AU)

Gastric lesions in free-living sea turtles: An underestimated disease that reflects the health of the ecosystem.

Free-living marine turtles are constantly exposed to aggression factors and the gastrointestinal tract is one of the main gateways of entry. The objective of this study was to identify, and describe the anatomopathological alterations in the stomach of free-living marine turtles found dead on the beaches of the Microrregião dos Lagos, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Twenty-two sea turtles were necropsied, and stomach fragments were collected, fixed, and processed routinely. The presence of gastritis, parasitism, and adaptative morphological alteration of the cells were evaluated in a microscopic analysis. Descriptive statistics and Fisher's exact test were performed. Of the samples, 59.1% had stomach hyperemia. Microscopically, gastritis was found in 86.4% of cases, parasitism in 72.7%, and adaptive morphological alteration in 59.1%. There was an association between the presence of cellular adaptive morphological alteration and chronic inflammation. This the first report to describe the adaptive morphological changes observed in the stomach cells. The chronicity of the lesions was due to continuous aggressions to the tissue, with parasitism, garbage ingestion, and environmental pollutants as possible causes. The results obtained in this study demonstrate that the chronicity of the stomach lesions is due to continuous aggressions to this tissue, and the irritating factors have environmental origin, such as parasites, garbage, and toxic pollutants, including heavy metals, which are ingested by free-living sea turtles. This article demonstrates that stomach injuries in free-living marine turtles are frequent, severe, and possibly underdiagnosed; these lesions reflect the diseased ecosystem in which those animals live.

Morphometric measurements and zootechnical indices of the Pantanal in race horses of different ages and gender.

The aim of this study was to perform linear measurements and assess morphometric indices of equines of the Pantanal race of different ages in the municipality of Poconé-Mato Grosso. Fifty-seven clinically healthy male and female horses between 1 and 19 years of age were selected and divided into groups by sex: 41 animals males and 17 animals femeles, and age groups: group 1 (nine animals up to 12 months of age), group 2 (eight animals from 12 to 24 months), group 3 (15 animals from 24 to 48 months), and group 4 (27 animals older than 48 months). With the aid of a hypometer, the following linear measures were carried out: height at the withers and croup, and body length. The thoracic circumference and cinnamon were measured with a tape. From these measures, the following zootechnical indices were calculated: estimated weight, relationship between height at the whithers and height at the croup (RHC), dactyl thoracic (DTI), body index (BI), forming index (FI), load index 1 (LI1), load index 2 (LI2), body relative index (BRI), compactness index 1 (COI1), compactness index 2 (COI2), load index in cinnamon (LIC). In general, horses of the Pantanal breed are hipometric and longilinear; only the adult group of animals were mediolinear, with a good relationship between the withers and croup. They can be used with a saddle or take traction, with the ability to move their limbs slowing down with age. An influence of sex and age on the analyzed variables was observed.

Histopathological findings in the early diagnosis of granulosa cell tumour in bitches.

Granulosa cell tumour (GCT) is a majorly observed ovarian tumour in female dogs. It is essential to diagnose GCT in its initial phase before any symptoms occur, as histological and physiological differences may be observed based on the evolution of this neoplasia. This study aimed to analyse the anatomic histopathology of GCT in its initial stage, with findings of ovaries not yet with the suspicion of neoplasms in the Canis familiaris. A sample including 55 ovaries presented GCT in 40 female dogs. The histopathological analysis was performed considering the intensity of pleomorphism, vascularization and inflammatory infiltrate. Furthermore, we evaluated the mitoses count in 10 fields using 40× magnification. Out of the 40 animals evaluated, 62.5% (25/40) presented the tumour in only one ovary. The Call-Exner corpuscle was present in 65% (26/40) of the cases. The follicular histological pattern was present in 52.5% (21/40) of the animals. The presence of the Call-Exner bodies and the degree of tumour cell pleomorphism (p = 0.033) were associated. Moreover, the degree of vascularization and the intensity of the inflammatory infiltrate were also related (p = 0.001). In addition, there was a positive relationship between the increase in pleomorphism and the mean age of the animals (p = 0.044). This study confirmed that the appearance of this tumour may precede any clinical symptomatology. In this study, the most frequent histopathological pattern was the follicular. The characteristics of the granulosa cell tumour diagnosed early were poorly pleomorphic cells, low mitotic index and presence of Call-Exner body.