Investigating the gastrointestinal physiology of mature horses with and without a history of cribbing behavior in response to feeding a digestive support supplement.

Cribbing, a stereotypic oral behavior observed in horses, involves placing incisors on a fixed object, arching the neck, pulling against the object, and emitting an audible grunt. This behavior has been associated with gastrointestinal (GI) dysfunction and gastric ulceration. In this randomized crossover study, we investigated the impact of a GI support supplement (SPL) on the GI environment and physiology of four cribbing (CB) and four non-cribbing horses (NCB). Mature Quarter Horses, acclimated to individual stalls for 16 hours daily with paddock turnout in pairs for 8 hours per day, were randomly assigned to receive either the SPL or placebo for 21 days, followed by a 2-week washout period. Fecal and gastric samples were collected for pH determination and blood samples were analyzed for serum cortisol and gastrin levels. Endoscopic examinations assessed gastric ulcer severity, and cribbing frequency and bouts were recorded via video surveillance. Data were analyzed using a mixed-model ANOVA. Results showed no differences in fecal and gastric pH between cribbing statuses. However, an interaction between supplementation and cribbing status was observed for squamous mucosa ulcer scores (P=0.003). There were no differences in glandular mucosa ulcer scores, serum cortisol, serum gastrin, and crib-bite count between CB and NCB horses or between supplementation groups. Crib-bout duration did not differ with supplementation, but differences were found between periods (P<0.05) and hour ranges (P<0.001). Our findings suggest that the GI support supplement may not effectively address cribbing behavior or alter the GI environment in NCB or CB horses.

Evisceration with implantation of an intrascleral silicone prosthesis in dogs: A retrospective study of 107 cases (2010-2019).

OBJECTIVE: To retrospectively analyze the preoperative clinical characteristics and surgical outcomes of evisceration with implantation of an intrascleral silicone prosthesis (EIISP) procedures in dogs and evaluate whether brachycephalic dogs are more prone than non-brachycephalic dogs to develop postoperative complications after EIISP. ANIMAL STUDIED: Ninety-One dogs (19 of which were brachycephalic) were included. PROCEDURES: Medical records from 2010 to 2019 were reviewed. Signalment, reason for EIISP, postoperative complications, follow-up time, and postoperative eye appearance were analyzed. RESULTS: The most frequently represented breeds were French Bulldog [11/91 (12%) dogs], Jack Russell Terrier [6/91 (7%)], and Shih Tzu [6/91 (7%)]. Brachycephalic dogs were statistically younger than non-brachycephalic dogs at the time of EIISP (p = 1.61 × 10-5 ). Uncontrolled glaucoma was the most common reason for EIISP in both groups. Short-term complications (from D0 to D15) seen in 7/91 (8%) dogs included epithelial corneal ulcers (n = 3), keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS) (n = 2), and prosthesis extrusion (n = 2). Long-term complications seen in 26/91 (29%) dogs included KCS (n = 11), epithelial corneal ulcers (n = 7), stromal ulcers (n = 3), entropion (n = 4), and prosthesis extrusion (n = 1). Extrusion of the prosthesis occurred twice in eyes that had undergone diode laser transscleral cyclophotocoagulation. The risk of postoperative complications was not significantly different between brachycephalic and non-brachycephalic dogs (p = .3). CONCLUSIONS: Brachycephalic status in dogs does not appear to influence the risk of complications from EIISP. Nevertheless, the present study is a reminder that EIISP focuses on esthetics, and considering the possible complications associated with it, it does not provide a benefit to the patient compared to enucleation.

Inclusion of silage in diets to fattening pigs: effect on gastric ulcers and skin lesions.

Limited access to high-quality feed protein for pigs has made it necessary to evaluate new protein sources that both promote sustainable pig production and meet the nutritional requirements of pigs. Providing pigs with roughage has positive effects on their behaviour and gut health. However, roughage is seldom given as a part of the pigs' diet and often has a long straw length. Knowledge is lacking on the effect of feeding silage with smaller particle size and as a part of the pigs' diet on pig behaviour and welfare. This study evaluated the influence of feeding fattening pigs silage with different particle sizes on aggressive encounters, measured as the number of skin lesions, and on the occurrence of gastric lesions and ulcers. In total, 128 Swedish Yorkshire × Hampshire pigs were fed either a commercial control feed without silage (Pellet-C), or silage mixed with commercial feed, either in a pellet (Pellet-S) or in a total mixed ration (TMR) with chopped (TMR-Ch) or intensively treated silage (TMR-Ex). Skin lesions were assessed twice in the study according to the Welfare Quality® protocol. The first assessment was performed when the pigs were 105 days old and the second assessment at 132 days of age. Gastric lesions were examined in both the pars oesophagea and the pars glandularis region of the stomach. Stomachs were collected after slaughter, and gastric lesions were scored based on established scoring criteria. There was a treatment × assessment interaction on the number of skin lesions on the ear (P = 0.049). Apart from this interaction, no other effect of treatment on the number of skin lesions could be observed between the treatments or the assessment occasions. Treatment had a clear effect on the occurrence of gastric lesions and pigs fed the fresh silage (TMR-Ch and TMR-Ex) had a lower occurrence of gastric lesions and ulcers compared to the pelleted treatments (Pellet-C and Pellet-S) (P = 0.001). This study could not show any clear reduction effect of dietary silage inclusion on skin lesions. However, feeding silage in TMR significantly reduced the occurrence of stomach ulcers.

Canine oral lesions: a decision-tree approach to ulcers, leukoplakia, and pigmented lesions.

Lesions in the oral cavity of dogs can be erythematous, leukoplakic, or pigmented in coloration. The diagnosis of oral erosions, ulcers, and white lesions in contrast to pigmented lesions in veterinary practice can be challenging. The most benign-looking oral ulcers can be associated with local malignant or systemic disease. Many factors are important in the evaluation and correct diagnosis of oral lesions, including medical and drug history, description of the lesion, number of lesions, depth of the lesion, biopsy technique, and correct histologic interpretation. The goal of this paper is to create a decision tree to guide the classification and proper diagnosis of canine oral mucosal lesions.

Efficacy of the oral supplement, Equine Omega Complete, for the prevention of gastric ulcers and alpha-tocopherol supplementation in horses.

BACKGROUND: Omega-3 fatty acid and alpha-tocopherol supplementation reduces gastric ulcer formation in humans and rodents; however, efficacy of prevention in horses is unknown. Equine Omega Complete (EOC) is an oral supplement containing omega-3 fatty acids and alpha-tocopherol. HYPOTHESIS/OBJECTIVE: Determine if EOC supplementation prevents gastric ulcers and increases serum alpha-tocopherol concentrations in healthy horses. ANIMALS: Nine thoroughbred geldings; 5-13 years old. METHODS: Prospective randomized block design, repeated in crossover model. Horses were administered EOC, omeprazole, or water PO for 28 days. Horses underwent an established gastric ulcer induction protocol from days 21-28 via intermittent feed deprivation. Gastroscopies were performed on days 0, 21, and 28. Serum alpha-tocopherol concentrations were measured on days 0 and 28. The effects of treatment and time on ulcer grades were assessed with ordinal logistic regression, with significance at P-value <.05. RESULTS: Ulcer grades increased during ulcer induction in control and EOC but not omeprazole groups (P = .02). Grades increased in EOC-treated horses after ulcer induction from a median of 1 [95% confidence interval 0-2.5] (day 0) to 2.5 [1.5-3.5] (day 28) and were similar to the control group (P = .54). Serum alpha-tocopherol increased in EOC-treated horses from day 0 to day 28 (mean 2.2 ± 0.43 µg/mL to 2.96 ± 0.89 µg/mL; P < .001) with high individual variation; this increase was not different from omeprazole or control groups. CONCLUSION AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE: Supplementation with EOC for 28 days did not prevent gastric ulcer formation nor increase alpha-tocopherol concentrations relative to the control group.

Corneal Ulcers in Critically Ill Foals in Intensive Care: Case Series of Standard Treatment and Corneal Cross-Linking.

Riboflavin/UV-A corneal cross-linking (CXL) has been applied to treat corneal ulcers in adult horses, but its use in critically ill neonatal foals has not been described. Five cases of hospitalized, critically ill neonatal foals that were in intensive care with corneal ulcers, the ophthalmic treatment, and their outcome up to 1 year are described. A single treatment of CXL phototherapy was performed in three of five foals (five eyes). The application of a riboflavin ophthalmic solution for 20 minutes was followed by the UV-A light irradiation at 30 mW/cm2 for 3 minutes. Topical antibiotic administration was withdrawn after CXL. Two other foals received standard treatment. Descriptions of ocular lesions, fluorescein staining, and photographic documentation were recorded. The visual outcome, corneal transparency, and aesthetics, as well as healing time were evaluated in the follow-up. The frequency of topical medication considerably decreased in cases treated with CXL. Corneal opacity and pain decreased within 3 days following CXL. In the foals treated with CXL, the ulcers healed (fluorescein stain negative) in 24, 28, and 35 days after the onset of clinical signs and 10, 15, and 21, after CXL. No fibrosis or corneal scars were found in the cases treated with CXL. The two standard treatment cases healed after 26 and 36 days respectively. Corneal cross-linking may be an additional or alternative treatment of corneal ulcers in critically ill neonatal foals and may reduce the use of antibiotics.

In vitro antibacterial efficacy of autologous conditioned plasma and amniotic membrane eye drops.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the in vitro antibacterial efficacy of equine and canine autologous conditioned plasma (ACP) and amniotic membrane extract eye drops (AMEED) against aerobic bacteria common to the corneal surface. PROCEDURES: Canine (n = 4) and equine (n = 4) anticoagulated whole blood samples were sterilely collected, pooled for each species, and processed using the Arthrex ACP® Double-Syringe System. Platelet counts were performed on ACP and pooled blood. AMEED were obtained from a commercial source. An electronic medical records search (2013-2022) identified aerobic bacteria cultured from canine and equine corneal ulcers at Mississippi State University College of Veterinary Medicine (MSU-CVM). Ten commonly isolated bacteria for each species were collected from cultures submitted to the MSU-CVM Microbiology Diagnostic Service and frozen at -80°C. The Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method was used to determine the sensitivities of these isolates to ACP and AMEED. Bacterial isolates were plated onto Mueller-Hinton +5% sheep blood agar and blank sterile discs saturated with 20 µL of ACP or AMEED were tested in duplicate. Imipenem discs served as positive controls and blank discs as negative controls. Zones of inhibition were measured at 18 h. RESULTS: ACP platelet counts were 1.06 and 1.65 times higher than blood for equine and canine samples, respectively. Growth of a multi-drug resistant Enterococcus faecalis was partially inhibited by canine and equine ACP. AMEED did not inhibit growth of any examined bacteria. CONCLUSIONS: Canine and equine ACP partially inhibited E. faecalis growth in vitro. Further studies using varying concentrations of ACP against bacterial isolates from corneal ulcers are warranted.

A remote fluorescein staining and photography protocol for monitoring of ulcerative keratitis in small animal patients: A pilot study.

OBJECTIVE: To describe a protocol for corneal ulcer monitoring utilizing daily fluorescein staining and evaluation of owner-acquired anterior segment images. ANIMAL STUDIED: Nine client-owned small animal patients (eight dogs, one cat) diagnosed with superficial corneal ulcers at the University of Georgia Veterinary Capitalize Hospital. PROCEDURE(S): In addition to routine ulcer therapy, patients were discharged with supplies to perform daily fluorescein staining including a Quikvue® cobalt blue light camera adapter. Fluorescein staining was performed daily, photographs and/or videos were acquired at home by the patient's owner(s), and images were analyzed daily by trained personnel. In-house examinations were performed weekly and within 24 h after the ulcer had appeared healed on photographs. RESULTS: All (9/9) owners were able to take interpretable photographs. The majority (6/9) of patients had images successfully detailing their ulcer healing progress. One (1/9) patient appeared healed on images, but on subsequent examination had persistent ulceration covered by third eyelid elevation. Two (2/9) patients had persistent ulceration, consistent on both images and examination, but exited the study prematurely prior to ulcer healing. CONCLUSIONS: Remote fluorescein staining and image evaluation can be considered as an adjunct for monitoring ulcer healing but should not be used alone or as a substitute for ophthalmic examinations. Ulcers under the third eyelid have potential to be missed on image evaluation alone.

An iterative approach to the development of a sole ulcer induction model in Holstein cows.

Our objective was to develop a sole ulcer (SU) induction model that can be used to investigate new and more efficacious methods for the treatment and prevention of SU. Three iterations [phase (P)1, P2, and P3] of an SU induction model designed to mimic mechanical and presumed metabolic pathways for SU development were conducted. The results from P1 and P2 identified alterations for the subsequent phase. Each phase used cows with similar calving dates that were randomly assigned (n = 4) to treatments. Control cows (P1CON, P3CON) did not undergo any challenges to induce SU development. Treatment cows were challenged with a hoof block (B) applied to the right hind lateral hoof. Other treatments included restricted lying time (L), restricted feed intake (F), or systemic lipopolysaccharide (LPS) administration. Treatment comparisons were P1CON versus P1BL, P2B versus P2BL, and P3CON versus P3BLF and P3BLF+LPS for P1, P2, and P3, respectively. Pregnant nulliparous Holstein cows were used in P1 and P3, and the P1 cohort was used in P2 during mid-lactation [125.9 ± 7.20 d in milk (DIM)]. Challenges were applied during a set challenge period (P1: -14 to 14 DIM, P2: 126-168 DIM, P3: -14 to 28 DIM). The P1BL cows had a hoof block applied and lying time restricted for 5 h/d. The P2B and P2BL cows had a hoof block and P2BL cows also had their lying time restricted for 18 h/d for 2 d/wk. The P3BLF and P3BLF+LPS cows had a hoof block, 6 h/d of lying time restricted 2 d/wk, and had their DMI restricted by 30% for 2 d/wk. At weekly intervals during wk 1 to 3 postpartum, P3BLF+LPS cows received jugular administration of 0.031, 0.062, and 0.125 µg of LPS per kg of body weight, respectively. Primary response measurements included hoof lesion and locomotion scoring, lying time, hoof thermography, and weight distribution per hoof. No SU induction occurred but sole hemorrhages, a precursor to SU, occurred during the postchallenge period of all phases. Temperature of the blocked hoof at the end of the challenge period did not change for P3CON cows but increased by 5.5°C and 6.2°C for P3BLF and P3BLF+LPS, respectively. Notable increases in lameness and lack of weight-bearing on the blocked hind hoof occurred for challenge treatment cows during the challenge period of P2 and P3. These changes did not persist after the hoof blocks were removed, indicating that hoof blocks succeeded in altering cow gait mechanics, but not enough to induce long-term lameness or SU. Lying restriction challenged cows in P2 and P3, indicated by a compensatory increase in lying time on the day following lying restriction compared with that on the day before restriction. In P3, lying time had the greatest depression during restriction and compensation following restriction in P3BLF+LPS cows, with LPS challenges potentially increasing the other challenge's effects. Future iterations of the SU induction model should include hoof block use, evaluate longer and more frequent standing and inclusion of forced walking bouts, and include DMI and LPS metabolic challenges.

Epidemiology and clinical significance of canine distichiasis: A retrospective study of 291 cases.

OBJECTIVE: To describe the epidemiological factors and clinical significance of canine distichiasis. ANIMALS STUDIED: Two hundred and ninety-one client-owned dogs. METHODS: Retrospective study of medical records for canine patients diagnosed with distichiasis between 2010 and 2019 in an ophthalmology specialty practice. The breed, sex, skull conformation, coat type, age at the time of diagnosis, reason for presentation, clinical examination findings, and affected eyelid(s) were reviewed. RESULTS: The prevalence of distichiasis was 5.5% (95% confidence interval (CI): 4.9-6.1) in the population of dogs presented to an ophthalmology specialty practice. The breeds with the highest prevalence were English bulldogs (35.2%, 95% CI: 26.7-43.7) and American cocker spaniels (19.4%, 95% CI: 8.3-30.5). The prevalence was significantly higher in brachycephalic dogs (11.9%, 95% CI: 9.8-14.0) than in non-brachycephalic dogs (4.6%, 95% CI: 4.0-5.3) and in short-haired dogs (8.2%, 95% CI: 6.8-9.6) than in dogs with other coat types (5.3%, 95% CI: 4.5-6.1). Most dogs were affected bilaterally (63.6%, 95% CI: 58.0-69.1). Among dogs with clinical signs, 39.0% (95% CI: 26.5-51.4) exhibited corneal ulceration, including superficial ulcers (28.8%, 95% CI: 17.3-40.4) and deep stromal ulcers (10.2%, 95% CI: 2.5-17.8). Distichiasis was non-irritating in 85.0% (95% CI: 80.6-89.4) of affected dogs. CONCLUSION: This study reports the largest cohort of canine distichiasis to date. In a large proportion of dogs, distichiasis was a non-irritating condition. However, brachycephalic breeds, especially English bulldogs, were the most frequently and severely affected.

Evaluation of corneal ulcer type, skull conformation, and other risk factors in dogs: A retrospective study of 347 cases.

Objective: To investigate the incidence of corneal ulceration (CU) and establish risk factors for dogs referred to an academic referral hospital in Ontario, Canada. Animals: Dogs (N = 1101). Procedure: Type of CU, number of CU diagnoses, breed, skull conformation, weight, sex, neuter status, age, and comorbidities were analyzed for simple CU, spontaneous chronic corneal epithelial defects (SCCEDs), and complex CU. Complex ulcers were subdivided into deep, presence of keratomalacia, descemetoceles, and corneal lacerations and foreign bodies (CLFB). Results: The inclusion criteria were met by 347 dogs and 754 served as a control population of non-corneal ulceration (NCU) cases. Complex ulcers predominated (n = 134; 38.5%), including deep (n = 41; 11.8%), with keratomalacia (n = 20; 5.7%), descemetocele (n = 59; 17.0%), and CLFB (n = 14; 4.0%). Shih tzus were most predominant for every ulcer type, except for boxers for SCCEDs. Brachycephalic breeds have 2.757 greater odds (P < 0.0001) of presenting for CU, and 2.695 greater odds (P < 0.0001) of having a complex CU. Each 1 kg decrease in body weight increased odds of CU diagnosis by 1.3%. Yearly increase in age augmented the odds of CU diagnosis by 8.9% (P < 0.0001); older dogs were more likely to have SCCEDs (P = 0.0040) and keratomalacia (P = 0.0257). Comorbidities increased odds of repeat CU diagnosis (P = 0.0024). Dogs with diabetes mellitus (P = 0.0318) had higher odds of SCCEDs. Conclusion: Skull conformation, age, body weight, and comorbidities were identified risk factors for CU. Clinical relevance: Knowledge of risk factors will help veterinarians triage at risk demographics.

Évaluation du type d'ulcère cornéen, de la conformation du crâne et autres facteurs de risque chez le chien : une étude rétrospective de 347 cas. Objectif: Étudier l'incidence d'ulcération de la cornée (UC) et établir les facteurs de risque pour les chiens référés à un hôpital universitaire de référence en Ontario, Canada. Animaux: Chiens (N = 1101). Procédure: Le type d'UC, le nombre de diagnostics d'UC, la race, la conformation du crâne, le poids, le sexe, le statut de stérilisation, l'âge et les comorbidités ont été analysés pour les UC simples, les défauts épithéliaux cornéens chroniques spontanés (SCCEDs) et les UC complexes. Les ulcères complexes ont été subdivisés en profonds, présence de kératomalacie, descémétocèles et lacérations cornéennes et corps étrangers (CLFB). Résultats: Les critères d'inclusion ont été remplis par 347 chiens et 754 ont servi de population témoin de cas d'ulcération non-cornéenne (UNC). Les ulcères complexes prédominaient (n = 134; 38,5 %), y compris profonds (n = 41; 11,8 %), avec kératomalacie (n = 20; 5,7 %), descémétocèles (n = 59; 17,0 %) et CLFB (n = 14; 4,0 %). Les shih tzus étaient les plus prédominants pour chaque type d'ulcère, à l'exception des boxers pour les SCCEDs. Les races brachycéphales ont 2,757 chances plus élevées (P < 0,0001) de présenter un UC et 2,695 chances plus élevées (P < 0,0001) d'avoir un UC complexe. Chaque diminution de 1 kg du poids corporel augmentait les risques de diagnostic de UC de 1,3 %. L'augmentation annuelle de l'âge augmentait les chances de diagnostic d'UC de 8,9 % (P < 0,0001); les chiens plus âgés étaient plus susceptibles d'avoir des SCCEDs (P = 0,0040) et une kératomalacie (P = 0,0257). Les comorbidités ont augmenté les chances de répéter le diagnostic d'UC (P = 0,0024). Les chiens atteints de diabète mellitus (P = 0,0318) avaient un risque plus élevé de SCCEDs. Conclusion: La conformation du crâne, l'âge, le poids corporel et les comorbidités ont été identifiés comme facteurs de risque d'UC. Pertinence clinique: La connaissance des facteurs de risque aidera les vétérinaires à trier les cas à risque selon les données démographiques.(Traduit par Dr Serge Messier).

Type 2 abomasal ulceration in cattle and buffalo: energy and lipid metabolic status, clinico-biochemical parameters, treatment, and prognostic indicators.

Twenty nine animals (22 cattle and 7 buffaloes) having type 2 abomasal ulcer (AU2) were studied in this prospective investigation, along with a control group (n = 20). Signalment, history, clinical signs, and laboratory alterations were determined. Blood, rumen fluid, abomasal fluid, and fecal samples were collected at the time of presentation. Depressed behavior, anorexia, dehydration, melena, sparse feces, and mushy rumen with substantially reduced or nonexistent motility, tachycardia, and tachypnea were common clinical findings. Colic was observed in 58% of animals. While the neutrophil count was significantly greater, the mean of lymphocytes, hemoglobin, erythrocyte count, and hematocrit were all lower (p < 0.05) than the corresponding control values. In comparison to the control values, the levels of BHBA, NEFA, lactate, bilirubin, BUN, creatinine, LDH, CK, GGT, ALP, and AST were significantly higher but levels of proteins, cholesterol, Na, K, Cl, and calcium were lower (p < 0.05). In comparison to the control values, the other hemato-biochemical parameters did not differ substantially (p < 0.05). The rumen and abomasal pH were within the reference range while rumen chloride concentration was increased in majority of animals. Higher percentage (p < 0.05) of non-survivors showed left shift and toxic alterations in neutrophils than the survivors. As compared to the survivors, the non-survivors had higher (p < 0.05) BHBA, triglycerides, total bilirubin, AST, ALP, LDH, and lactate, and lower (p < 0.05) fibrinogen and calcium. The response to medical treatment was fair, long time survival rate was good, and there was no recurrence. The follow-up period was 28 months. After treatment, both the current and the subsequent lactation's milk production were unaffected.

Risk factors, clinical indicators, and pathological findings of abomasal ulcers in tropical dairy buffaloes.

The current study aimed at identifying the risk factors and initial diagnostic aids for abomasal ulcers. The risk factor analysis confirmed a significant association (P < 0.05) of abomasal ulcers with concentrate-rich diets (OR, 4.795; CI, 1.212-15.974) and concurrent disorders (OR, 2.978; CI, 0.987-8.980), while the buffaloes in early lactation (OR, 2.777; CI, 0.703-10.972) showed a higher tendency (P = 0.078) for the disorder. The depressed demeanour, dark or black manure (melena), anemia, tachycardia, decreased milk production, anorexia, tachypnea, absence of rumination, abdominal guarding, kyphosis, and tachypnea were the most frequent clinical signs. Subjecting the abomasal fluid for cultural isolation, gram staining, and stormy clot fermentation test identified the presence of clostridium perfringes, while screening through uniplex PCR detected cpa toxin. The buffaloes affected with type-3 and 4 abomasal ulcers exhibited a higher peritoneal fluid to serum ratio of total protein, albumin, and glucose with a low (P < 0.01) serum-ascites albumin gradient (SAAG) concentration compared to reference values of healthy buffaloes. The first two principal components of PCA explained 54.50% of the total variances with lymphocytes, creatine kinase, and rumen chloride levels as the top contributors to dimension I, and albumin, total protein, sodium, and methylene blue reduction time (MBRT) for rumen liquor as the major contributors to dimension II. The vector plot revealed lymphocytopenia, decreased hemoglobin, hypoalbuminemia, hypokalemia, decreased rumen pH, neutrophilia, eosinophilia, leucocytosis, greater MBRT, and higher rumen chloride, serum creatine kinase, and blood urea nitrogen as the major indicators for abomasal ulcers. Histopathological studies revealed infiltration of inflammatory cells in the mucosa along with multifocal areas of necrosis, degeneration, and eroded muscle structure. The study projected a few high-scored clinical signs and extremely variable clinical indicators as initial diagnostic aids of abomasal ulcers, which can be confirmed by ultrasonography and peritoneal fluid examination.

Efficacious cellular therapy of descemetocele in a dog.

The cornea is comprised of 4 layers; the outermost layer is the epithelium, followed by the stroma, Descemet's membrane, and endothelium. Corneal descemetocele is a serious consequence of progressive corneal ulceration, characterized by a herniation of the Descemet membrane through an overlying stromal defect. It requires urgent intervention due to the risk of perforation. Although there are several treatments available for this type of corneal ulcer, conservative approaches may be inadequate due to the typical severity of this injury. Surgical interventions, including conjunctival autograft transplantation and corneoscleral transposition, are commonly used. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have been used to effectively treat corneal ulcers, but there are limited reports regarding its use for descemetocele. A 7-year-old female shih tzu was diagnosed with descemetocele. In this dog, 2 × 106 MSCs, provided by CellTech - Stem Cell Technologies, were injected bilaterally into the conjunctiva, with an additional 5 × 105 MSCs applied topically to each eye. The ulcer achieved complete remission with an absence of corneal opacity after 75 d, supporting the claim that MSCs are an effective and safe option for the treatment of descemetocele. Key clinical message: The dog's descemetocele healed completely after a single application of MSCs after 30 d, with scars and leukoma completely absent after 75 d. No surgical intervention was required.

Thérapie cellulaire efficace de la descemétocèle chez un chien. La cornée est composée de quatre couches; la couche la plus externe est l'épithélium, suivi du stroma, de la membrane de Descemet et de l'endothélium. La descémétocèle cornéenne est une conséquence grave de l'ulcération cornéenne progressive, caractérisée par une hernie de la membrane de Descemet à travers un défaut stromal sus-jacent. Elle nécessite une intervention urgente en raison du risque de perforation. Bien qu'il existe plusieurs traitements disponibles pour ce type d'ulcère cornéen, les approches conservatrices peuvent être inadéquates en raison de la gravité typique de cette blessure. Les interventions chirurgicales, y compris une autogreffe conjonctivale et la transposition cornéosclérale, sont couramment utilisées. Les cellules souches mésenchymateuses (MSCs) ont été utilisées pour traiter efficacement les ulcères cornéens, mais il existe peu de rapports concernant leur utilisation pour la descemétocèle. Une femelle shih tzu de 7 ans a été diagnostiquée avec descemetocele. Chez ce chien, 2 × 106 MSCs, fournies par CellTech ­ Stem Cell Technologies, ont été injectées bilatéralement dans la conjonctive, avec 5 × 105 MSCs supplémentaires appliquées localement sur chaque oeil. L'ulcère a obtenu une rémission complète avec une absence d'opacité cornéenne après 75 jours, soutenant l'affirmation selon laquelle les MSCs sont une option efficace et sûre pour le traitement de la descemétocèle.Message clinique clé:La descemétocèle de ce chien a complètement guéri après une seule application de MSCs après 30 jours, avec des cicatrices et un leucome complètement absents après 75 jours. Aucune intervention chirurgicale n'a été nécessaire.(Traduit par Dr Serge Messier).

Evaluation of compounded cidofovir, famciclovir, and ganciclovir for the treatment of feline herpesvirus ocular surface disease in shelter-housed cats.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the efficacy of compounded cidofovir, famciclovir, and ganciclovir for the treatment of feline herpesvirus type 1 (FHV-1) ocular surface disease. ANIMALS STUDIED: 132 shelter-housed cats qPCR positive for FHV-1. PROCEDURES: A masked placebo-controlled study design was utilized. Animals were enrolled in one of four treatment groups: topical ocular placebo + oral placebo (n = 32), compounded cidofovir 0.5% ophthalmic solution + oral placebo (n = 32), compounded famciclovir oral solution (90 mg/kg) + topical ocular placebo (n = 32), and compounded ganciclovir 0.15% ophthalmic solution + oral placebo (n = 36). Cats were treated with each medication twice daily for 7 days and were evaluated on Day 1 and Day 8 using an ocular scoring system, body weight, and qPCR for FHV-1 viral load. RESULTS: Cidofovir significantly decreased viral load from Day 1 to Day 8 compared with placebo (p = .024). Neither famciclovir nor ganciclovir decreased viral load compared with placebo (p = .14, p = .41). There was no significant improvement of ocular scores for any drug group compared with placebo (p = .62). In all groups, 65%-75% of cats improved from Day 1 to Day 8. Juvenile cats had a significant increase in weight gain compared with placebo for cidofovir (p = .025) and ganciclovir (p = .023). All corneal ulcers in placebo animals failed to heal whereas 77% of ulcers in antiviral group animals healed. CONCLUSIONS: Topical ophthalmic cidofovir significantly decreased ocular FHV-1 viral shedding and increased weight gain in juvenile cats. Ganciclovir increased weight gain in juvenile cats. Compounded famciclovir demonstrated limited efficacy for the treatment of FHV-1 ocular surface disease in shelter-housed cats.

Evaluation of delaying effects of different short-term dosage regimens of topical ciprofloxacin on corneal ulcer healing in an avian model.

BACKGROUND: Knowledge on possible delaying effects of topical ciprofloxacin on corneal ulcer healing is scarce in avian patients. OBJECTIVES: The study evaluates effects of different dosage regimens of topical ciprofloxacin on healing of corneal ulcer in an avian model. METHODS: One hundred and fifty adult layers were randomly allocated into two equal categories each consisted of 5 groups (n = 15): 1, negative control (NC, normal cornea); 2, positive control (PC) (birds with experimental corneal ulcer); and 3, 4 and 5, birds with corneal injury that received ciprofloxacin 0.3% topically q6h, q8h and q12h, respectively for 3 (category 1) or 5 days (category 2). Corneas were excised for histopathological evaluation and determination of MMP-9 expression. RESULTS: While no significant difference was observed in daily-measured fluorescein-stained ulcer size among ciprofloxacin-treated birds and PC group in category 1, birds in PC group of category 2 had significantly smaller ulcers as compared to antibiotic-treated birds at the end of experiment (p < 0.01 for all cases). Histopathological evaluations at the end of the experiment showed no significant difference among PC and ciprofloxacin-treated birds of both categories for almost all of the assayed parameters. Over expression of MMP-9 mRNA was observed in PC group after 3 and 5 days of ulcer induction compared to NC groups. Its expression in ciprofloxacin-treated birds of both categories remained close to PC groups. CONCLUSIONS: While ciprofloxacin administration for 3 days does not affect ulcer healing, it delays healing process at the end of 5 days of treatments in an avian model of corneal ulcer injury. This delaying effect is not associated with a drastic change in MMP-9 expression.

Changes in Heart Rate Variability with Induction of Gastric Ulcers in Adult Horses.

Gastric ulceration can be induced by athletic training and is a significant welfare concern. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of gastric ulcer induction on heart rate variability (HRV) in the horse. We hypothesized that induction of gastric ulcers would decrease HRV and increase low frequency fluctuations, consistent with increased sympathetic tone. A convenience sample of 8 horses in a larger study were enrolled. Horses were randomly assigned to receive water or 2 mg/kg omeprazole orally once daily for 28 days. Gastric ulcers were induced through intermittent feed withholding on days 21 to 28. Gastroscopy was performed and gastric ulcers were graded (0-IV) by three blinded reviewers on days 21 and 28. Continuous electrocardiograms were obtained for one hour at the start and end of ulcer induction. HRV was assessed in 1-hour recordings for time domain variables and 5 minute sections for frequency domain analysis. HRV and ulcer grade across treatments were compared by a mixed effect model, with treatment and time as fixed effects and horse as a random effect. Gastric ulcer grade increased with induction protocol (P < .0001) and decreased with omeprazole treatment (P = .0007). Omeprazole treatment increased R-R intervals (P = .01) and decreased ratio of low frequency/high frequency signal (P = .008) as compared to horses receiving water. This was attributable to decreasing low frequency fluctuations (P = .05). While limited by the small sample size (four horses/treatment), this study suggests that omeprazole treatment decreases heart rate, and LF/HF ratio during ulcer induction, consistent with a decrease in sympathetic tone.

Susceptibility pattern of bacterial isolates in equine ulcerative keratitis: Implications for empirical treatment at a university teaching hospital in Sydney.

Corneal ulceration is a common ophthalmic condition in horses. It is frequently caused by trauma to the corneal surface, followed by secondary infection by commensal or pathogenic organisms including Streptococcus equi subspecies zooepidemicus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus spp. Emerging antimicrobial resistance amongst these organisms has raised the need for appropriate antimicrobial therapy selection, to optimise treatment efficacy while minimising further antimicrobial resistance. Medical records of 38 horses presented at the University Veterinary Teaching Hospital Camden for ulcerative keratitis between 2010 and 2020 were reviewed to identify those with positive bacterial cultures and antimicrobial susceptibility profiles (13/38). Common susceptibility patterns were identified and used to guide the empirical treatment of equine bacterial corneal ulcers. Pseudomonas spp. (64.3%), Streptococcus equi subspecies zooepidemicus (14.3%) and Actinobacillus spp. (14.3%) were most commonly identified. Susceptibility to amikacin, gentamicin and ciprofloxacin was observed in 100%, 66.7% and 85.7% Pseudomonas spp. isolates respectively. Resistance to polymyxin B and neomycin occurred in 85.7% and 71.4% of Pseudomonas spp., respectively. All Streptococcus equi subspecies zooepidemicus organisms in this study were susceptible to ceftiofur, cephalexin, penicillin and ampicillin, while they were all resistant to gentamicin, neomycin, enrofloxacin and marbofloxacin. Predominating in this study, Pseudomonas spp. maintained overall aminoglycoside susceptibility despite some emerging resistance, and good fluoroquinolone susceptibility. High resistance to Polymyxin B could have arisen from its common use as first-line therapy for bacterial corneal ulcers. Although further research is required, these new findings about predominant bacteria in equine corneal ulceration in the Camden region and their antimicrobial susceptibility patterns can be used to guide the empirical treatment of bacterial corneal ulcers in horses.

Long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acid supplementation increases levels in red blood cells and reduces the prevalence and severity of squamous gastric ulcers in exercised Thoroughbreds.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the relationship between plasma and RBC fatty acid composition and incidence and severity of squamous gastric ulcers when altered by short-chain (SC) or long-chain (LC) polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) supplementation. ANIMALS: 13 fit Thoroughbred horses in training. PROCEDURES: Horses were evaluated by gastroscopy for squamous ulcer score, gastric pH, and blood fatty acid composition prior to supplementation (UNSUPP) and after 3 months of supplementation with a corn-flax oil blend of alpha-linolenic acid and linoleic acid (SC-PUFA) or a gamma-linolenic acid (GLA)-fish oil blend of GLA, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA; LC-PUFA) in a crossover design. Prior to gastroscopy and blood collection, horses performed a 4,600-m standardized exercise test on the racetrack as a stressor. RESULTS: Three months of supplementation with LC-PUFAs increased RBC levels of GLA, dihomo-gamma-linolenic acid (DGLA), arachidonic acid (AA), EPA, and DHA, and reduced severe ulcer prevalence (38% UNSUPP vs 8% LC-PUFA with a severe ulcer score of grade 3 to 4). Short-chain PUFA supplementation did not effectively elevate RBC GLA, DGLA, AA, EPA, or DHA and severe ulcer incidence was not different (38% UNSUPP vs 23% SC-PUFA with a severe ulcer score of grade 3 to 4). Lower levels of RBC GLA, DGLA, AA, and EPA correlated with severe squamous gastric ulceration (grade 3 to 4). CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Equine gastric ulcer syndrome is prevalent in high-performance horses and is a concern to owners and trainers. Long-chain PUFA supplementation increased levels of GLA, DGLA, AA, EPA, and DHA, unlike SC-PUFA supplementation, and was associated positively with prevention or resolution of severe squamous gastric ulceration. Further studies are needed to evaluate different management styles and exercise intensities.

Streptococcus canis sequence type 43 may be associated with treatment failure in dogs with corneal ulceration.

OBJECTIVE: To profile Streptococcus canis isolates obtained from corneal ulcers in dogs. ANIMALS: 10 dogs. PROCEDURES: Medical records were searched to identify dogs diagnosed with ulcerative keratitis by a veterinary ophthalmologist and having a positive corneal culture for S canis during the year 2020. For each case, clinical findings and outcome were determined, antimicrobial resistance and sensitivity panels were summarized, whole genome sequencing was performed, and isolates were typed using multi-locus sequence typing and genome-based proteome phylogenetic analysis. RESULTS: 10 S canis isolates were included from dogs diagnosed with ulcerative keratitis. Dogs were either treated surgically via keratectomy and conjunctival grafting (n = 6) or treated medically (4). Three of 10 corneas failed to heal and required enucleation (2/6 conjunctival grafts and 1/4 medically managed corneal ulcers). All three corneal ulcers that failed to heal were associated with S canis sequence type (ST) 43. Sequence types identified from successfully treated cases included ST8 (n = 1), ST50 (1), ST2 (2), ST27 (1), and ST15 (1). One ST43 isolate was obtained from a dog that healed following a conjunctival graft, however this was the only dog that received an oral antibiotic in addition to topical antibiotics. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Based on this small dataset, S canis ST43 may be associated with increased virulence and contribute to conjunctival graft failure and progressive corneal collagenolysis. The postoperative administration of an oral antimicrobial may protect against conjunctival graft rejection in dogs specifically due to S canis ST43.