ABSTRACT
Hyperadrenocorticism is an uncommon but important endocrine disease in guinea pigs, but due to its subtle clinical signs and the limited information in veterinary literature, it can be underdiagnosed or misdiagnosed. Ultrasound of the adrenal glands in patients with suspected hyperadrenocorticism can help in identifying adrenomegaly. The purpose of this prospective study was to identify ultrasonographic adrenal gland dimensions in presumed healthy guinea pigs using the same standardized method described for dogs and cats. A conscious ultrasound scan was conducted on twenty client-owned, presumed healthy guinea pigs, and their adrenal glands were measured. A possible correlation between adrenal dimensions with age, sex, and body weight was investigated. The mean length, cranial and caudal pole thickness for the left and right adrenal glands were, respectively, 12.64 ± 2.11 mm and 11.55 ± 1.52 mm; 4.83 mm ± 1.03 mm and 4.69 ± 1.34 mm; 4.8 ± 1.23 mm and 4.04 ± 0.75 mm. The thickness of the left caudal pole was significantly higher than the right (P = 0.02). A significant positive correlation was found between the length of the left adrenal gland and both age (r = 0.46; P = .03) and weight (r = 0.59; P = .01). Statistical correlation between the thickness of each cranial and caudal pole, with age, sex, or weight, was not found. The dimensions provided could prove a useful tool in the clinical evaluation of guinea pigs with suspected hyperadrenocorticism.
Subject(s)
Adrenal Glands , Ultrasonography , Animals , Guinea Pigs/anatomy & histology , Adrenal Glands/diagnostic imaging , Adrenal Glands/anatomy & histology , Ultrasonography/veterinary , Female , Male , Prospective Studies , Reference ValuesABSTRACT
Canine adrenal gland volume can be predicted based on body weight and computed tomography (CT) measurements using a validated algorithm. Use of this algorithm to detect adrenal pathology, including hyperplasia, hypoplasia and neoplasia, in clinical cases has not been described. The objective of this study was to illustrate application of the algorithm by estimating subject-specific adrenal gland volume in a historical cohort of dogs with known adrenal disease. Forty-six dogs that underwent CT and subsequent adrenalectomy were included. Clinical records and CT images from dogs that underwent adrenalectomy and histologic examination of the excised adrenal gland(s) were reviewed. Normal adrenal gland volumes for each dog were estimated using the algorithm, and compared with measured volumes of the affected glands. Linear measurement of the largest lesion diameter was also recorded. Fifty-eight adrenal glands were removed from 46 dogs, with pathology confirmed in all glands. Pathology included 28 adenomas, 13 carcinomas, 11 pheochromocytomas and 6 other benign pathologies. The volume of all removed adrenal glands was measured to be larger than the expected normal volume estimated by the algorithm, ranging from 1.1 to 212.9 times larger than estimated. Adrenal glands with malignant and benign pathology showed variable volumes with overlapping ranges recorded. Assessment of the dimensions of any focal lesion against a cut-off of 20 mm failed to discriminate malignancy. This study illustrates and supports the application of a validated volumetric algorithm for estimation of subject-specific adrenal gland volume to identify the presence of pathology and as a tool to assist clinical decision-making.
Subject(s)
Adrenal Glands , Adrenalectomy , Algorithms , Dog Diseases , Tomography, X-Ray Computed , Animals , Dogs , Dog Diseases/surgery , Dog Diseases/diagnostic imaging , Dog Diseases/pathology , Adrenalectomy/veterinary , Retrospective Studies , Adrenal Glands/diagnostic imaging , Adrenal Glands/pathology , Adrenal Glands/surgery , Adrenal Glands/anatomy & histology , Male , Tomography, X-Ray Computed/veterinary , Female , Adrenal Gland Neoplasms/veterinary , Adrenal Gland Neoplasms/surgery , Adrenal Gland Neoplasms/diagnostic imaging , Adrenal Gland Neoplasms/pathology , Organ Size , Adrenal Gland Diseases/veterinary , Adrenal Gland Diseases/diagnostic imaging , Adrenal Gland Diseases/surgery , Adrenal Gland Diseases/pathologyABSTRACT
The adrenal is a small, anatomically unimposing structure that escaped scientific notice until 1564 and whose existence was doubted by many until the 18th century. Adrenal functions were inferred from the adrenal insufficiency syndrome described by Addison and from the obesity and virilization that accompanied many adrenal malignancies, but early physiologists sometimes confused the roles of the cortex and medulla. Medullary epinephrine was the first hormone to be isolated (in 1901), and numerous cortical steroids were isolated between 1930 and 1949. The treatment of arthritis, Addison's disease, and congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH) with cortisone in the 1950s revolutionized clinical endocrinology and steroid research. Cases of CAH had been reported in the 19th century, but a defect in 21-hydroxylation in CAH was not identified until 1957. Other forms of CAH, including deficiencies of 3ß-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase, 11ß-hydroxylase, and 17α-hydroxylase were defined hormonally in the 1960s. Cytochrome P450 enzymes were described in 1962-1964, and steroid 21-hydroxylation was the first biosynthetic activity associated with a P450. Understanding of the genetic and biochemical bases of these disorders advanced rapidly from 1984 to 2004. The cloning of genes for steroidogenic enzymes and related factors revealed many mutations causing known diseases and facilitated the discovery of new disorders. Genetics and cell biology have replaced steroid chemistry as the key disciplines for understanding and teaching steroidogenesis and its disorders.
Subject(s)
Adrenal Gland Diseases , Biomedical Research , Humans , Adrenal Hyperplasia, Congenital/genetics , Hormones , Mixed Function Oxygenases , Molecular Biology , Steroids , Adrenal Gland Diseases/genetics , Adrenal Gland Diseases/history , Adrenal Gland Diseases/pathology , Adrenal Gland Diseases/therapy , Adrenal Glands/anatomy & histology , Biomedical Research/historyABSTRACT
Computed tomography (CT) is increasingly available to evaluate dogs with suspected adrenal disease, however, published studies describing the reproducibility of CT methods for quantifying adrenal gland (AG) measurements are lacking. This prospective, pilot, observer agreement study aimed to evaluate reproducibility and repeatability of two different methods of measurement of AGs on CT to establish a usable technique and define standard reference ranges. Multiplanar reformatted (MPR) CT images of both AGs of six large breed dogs were obtained with the MPR axis parallel to the spine and parallel to the long axis of the AG. Ten measurements were performed: maximal length and diameter at cranial and caudal poles on dorsal, sagittal, and transverse images; and minimal diameter of cranial and caudal poles on transverse images. Three observers with different levels of experience repeated these measurements three times for each dog. Intra- and interobserver variability were calculated through intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC). The differences in time to perform measurements between the two methods were tested with Student's t-test. Regardless of the measurement method used, length of AGs on dorsal and sagittal MPR images had the lowest intra- and inter-observer variability (ICC = 0.93-0.99), diameter of caudal pole on transverse plane showed low intra- and interobserver variability (ICC = 0.77-0.80) and diameter of cranial pole had the highest variability (ICC = 0.12-0.61). Although length was the less variable measurement, its use may be unrealistic in daily practice. Interestingly measurement of caudal pole on transverse plane was characterized by low intra- and interobserver variability. No difference in time performing the measurements was noted between the two methods.
Subject(s)
Adrenal Glands/anatomy & histology , Adrenal Glands/diagnostic imaging , Body Size , Dogs , Tomography, X-Ray Computed/veterinary , Animals , Male , Observer Variation , Organ Size , Pilot Projects , Reference Values , Reproducibility of Results , Tomography, X-Ray Computed/standardsABSTRACT
Reduced expression of the plasma membrane citrate transporter INDY (acronym I'm Not Dead, Yet) extends life span in lower organisms. Deletion of the mammalian Indy (mIndy) gene in rodents improves metabolism via mechanisms akin to caloric restriction, known to lower blood pressure (BP) by sympathoadrenal inhibition. We hypothesized that mIndy deletion attenuates sympathoadrenal support of BP. Continuous arterial BP and heart rate (HR) were reduced in mINDY-KO mice. Concomitantly, urinary catecholamine content was lower, and the decreases in BP and HR by mIndy deletion were attenuated after autonomic ganglionic blockade. Catecholamine biosynthesis pathways were reduced in mINDY-KO adrenals using unbiased microarray analysis. Citrate, the main mINDY substrate, increased catecholamine content in pheochromocytoma cells, while pharmacological inhibition of citrate uptake blunted the effect. Our data suggest that deletion of mIndy reduces sympathoadrenal support of BP and HR by attenuating catecholamine biosynthesis. Deletion of mIndy recapitulates beneficial cardiovascular and metabolic responses to caloric restriction, making it an attractive therapeutic target.
Subject(s)
Blood Pressure/genetics , Blood Pressure/physiology , Dicarboxylic Acid Transporters/genetics , Dicarboxylic Acid Transporters/physiology , Sympathoadrenal System/physiology , Symporters/genetics , Symporters/physiology , Adrenal Glands/anatomy & histology , Adrenal Glands/physiology , Animals , Caloric Restriction , Catecholamines/biosynthesis , Cell Line , Chromaffin Cells/physiology , Dicarboxylic Acid Transporters/deficiency , Gene Expression , Heart Rate/genetics , Heart Rate/physiology , Longevity/genetics , Longevity/physiology , Malates/pharmacology , Male , Mice , Mice, Inbred C57BL , Mice, Knockout , Models, Cardiovascular , Motor Activity/genetics , Motor Activity/physiology , Pyridines/pharmacology , Symporters/deficiencyABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: The fetal adrenal gland receives rising awareness as a predictor of spontaneous preterm birth. We hereby provide longitudinal growth assessments of the fetal adrenal gland in a low risk population with an additional focus on trajectories in fetuses born preterm. METHODS: Fetal adrenal gland was assessed via transabdominal ultrasound at gestational weeks (gw) 24-26, 28-30, and 34-36 in a low-risk pregnancy cohort. Longitudinal trajectories of the total gland and the mark (so called fetal zone) as well as ratio of fetal zone width/ total widths (w/W) were analyzed using repeated ANOVA analyses. To compare trajectories of the ratio w/W for preterm and term fetuses respectively, as well as women with and without clinical signs of preterm labor, the propensity score method was applied. RESULTS: Fetal zone width increased over the course of pregnancy (p < 0.0001), while the ratio w/W decreased (p < 0.0001) (n = 327). Comparing the trajectories of the ratio w/W in fetuses born preterm (n = 11) with propensity-score matched term born fetuses (n = 22), a decrease between gw 24-26 and 28-30 was observed in both groups, which continued to decrease for the term born fetuses. However, in preterm born fetuses, the ratio increased above the term born values at gw 34-36. CONCLUSION: Our study provides for the first time longitudinal growth data on the fetal adrenal gland and supports the hypothesis that fetal zone enlargement is associated with preterm birth which could play an important role in risk-prediction.
Subject(s)
Adrenal Glands/anatomy & histology , Adrenal Glands/diagnostic imaging , Fetal Development , Fetus/anatomy & histology , Fetus/diagnostic imaging , Premature Birth/epidemiology , Ultrasonography, Prenatal , Adrenal Glands/embryology , Adult , Female , Gestational Age , Humans , Pregnancy , Risk AssessmentABSTRACT
The adrenal gland is an essential component of the body stress response; it is formed by two portions: a steroidogenic and a chromaffin tissue. Despite the anatomy of adrenal gland is different among classes of vertebrates, the hormones produced are almost the same. During stress, these hormones contribute to body homeostasis and maintenance of ion balance. The adrenal gland is very sensitive to toxic compounds, many of which behave like endocrine-disruptor chemicals (EDCs). They contribute to alter the endocrine system in wildlife and humans and are considered as possible responsible of the decline of several vertebrate ectotherms. Considering that EDCs regularly can be found in all environmental matrices, the aim of this review is to collect information about the impact of these chemical compounds on the adrenal gland of fishes, amphibians and reptiles. In particular, this review shows the different behavior of these "sentinel species" when they are exposed to stress condition. The data supplied in this review can help to further elucidate the role of EDCs and their harmful impact on the survival of these vertebrates.
Subject(s)
Adrenal Glands/physiology , Amphibians/physiology , Endocrine Disruptors/toxicity , Fishes/physiology , Reptiles/physiology , Adrenal Glands/anatomy & histology , Adrenal Glands/ultrastructure , Animals , Chromaffin Cells/drug effects , Chromaffin Cells/ultrastructureABSTRACT
Rabbits have been used as an experimental model in many studies. These studies are important not only for veterinary clinicians, but also for researchers in different fields. The aim of this research was to describe gross morphological measurement, shape and arterial supply of the adrenal glands in healthy New Zealand rabbits. Dissections were performed in 30 adult rabbits, 15 males and 15 females, without macroscopic adrenal pathology. Adrenal measurements were made with a digital caliper: length, width, and thickness. The origin of the adrenal arteries was also determined. Both adrenal glands were localized cranially to the respective kidneys. The mean of the right adrenal gland was 0.88 cm length, 0.42 cm width and 0.16 cm thickness; the left gland measured 0.72 cm, 0.46 cm, and 0.17 cm, respectively. The right gland was significantly more elongated than the left (p = 0.0003) and the means of the measurements did not differ between sexes. Most of the right adrenal glands had a piriform shape (73.3%), whereas most of the left gland exhibited a "bean-shaped" aspect (60.0%). The arterial supply was found to arise from different arteries: lumbar, aorta, renal, caudal mesenteric, and testicular or ovarian. Comparatively, the descriptions of shape, position and arterial irrigation of the adrenal gland in rabbits are similar to those available in rodents. The data from the present investigation will assist in the interpretation of pathological and / or experimental findings in New Zealand rabbits.
Coelhos têm sido utilizados como modelo experimental em muitos estudos. Esses estudos são importantes não apenas para médicos veterinários, mas também para pesquisadores de diferentes campos. O objetivo desta pesquisa foi descrever as medidas morfológicas macroscópicas, forma e suprimento arterial das glândulas adrenais em coelhos saudáveis da raça Nova Zelândia. As dissecções foram realizadas em 30 coelhos adultos, 15 machos e 15 fêmeas, sem sinais macroscópicos de patologia adrenal. As medidas adrenais foram realizadas com paquímetro digital: comprimento, largura e espessura. A origem das artérias adrenais também foi determinada. Ambas as glândulas adrenais foram localizadas cranialmente nos respectivos rins. A média da glândula adrenal direita foi de 0,88 cm de comprimento, 0,42 cm de largura e 0,16 cm de espessura; a glândula esquerda mediu 0,72 cm, 0,46 cm e 0,17 cm, respectivamente. A glândula direita foi significativamente mais alongada que a esquerda (p = 0,0003) e as médias das medidas não diferiram entre os sexos. A maioria das glândulas adrenais direitas tinha uma forma piriforme (73,3%), enquanto a maioria da glândula esquerda exibia um aspecto em "forma de feijão" (60,0%). Verificou-se que o suprimento arterial provém de diferentes artérias: lombar, aorta, renal, mesentérica caudal e testicular ou ovariana. Comparativamente, as descrições de forma, posição e irrigação arterial da glândula adrenal em coelhos são semelhantes às disponíveis em roedores. Os dados da presente investigação ajudarão na interpretação de achados patológicos e / ou experimentais em coelhos da raça Nova Zelândia.
Subject(s)
Animals , Rabbits , Arteries/anatomy & histology , Rabbits/anatomy & histology , Adrenal Glands/anatomy & histology , Dissection/veterinary , Endocrine System/anatomy & histology , Anatomic Variation/physiology , Models, AnatomicABSTRACT
Catecholamine synthesized in the sympathoadrenal system, including sympathetic neurons and adrenal chromaffin cells, is vital for cardiovascular homeostasis. It has been reported that GATA2, a zinc finger transcription factor, is expressed in murine sympathoadrenal progenitor cells. However, a physiological role for GATA2 in adrenal chromaffin cells has not been established. In this study, we demonstrate that GATA2 is specifically expressed in adrenal chromaffin cells. We examined the consequences of Gata2 loss-of-function mutations, exploiting a Gata2 conditional knockout allele crossed to neural crest-specific Wnt1-Cre transgenic mice (Gata2 NC-CKO). The vast majority of Gata2 NC-CKO embryos died by embryonic day 14.5 (e14.5) and exhibited a decrease in catecholamine-producing adrenal chromaffin cells, implying that a potential catecholamine defect might lead to the observed embryonic lethality. When intercrossed pregnant dams were fed with synthetic adrenaline analogs, the lethality of the Gata2 NC-CKO embryos was partially rescued, indicating that placental transfer of the adrenaline analogs complements the lethal catecholamine deficiency in the Gata2 NC-CKO embryos. These results demonstrate that GATA2 participates in the development of neuroendocrine adrenaline biosynthesis, which is essential for fetal survival.
Subject(s)
Chromaffin Cells/metabolism , GATA2 Transcription Factor/physiology , Adrenal Glands/anatomy & histology , Adrenal Medulla/metabolism , Animals , Epinephrine/physiology , GATA2 Transcription Factor/genetics , GATA2 Transcription Factor/metabolism , Genes, Lethal , Mice , Mice, Transgenic , Neural CrestABSTRACT
An adrenal incidentaloma is now established as a common endocrine diagnosis that requires a multidisciplinary approach for effective management. The majority of patients can be reassured and discharged, but a personalized approach based upon image analysis, endocrine workup, and clinical symptoms and signs are required in every case. Adrenocortical carcinoma remains a real concern but is restricted to <2% of all cases. Functional adrenal incidentaloma lesions are commoner (but still probably <10% of total) and the greatest challenge remains the diagnosis and optimum management of autonomous cortisol secretion. Modern-day surgery has improved outcomes and novel radiological and urinary biomarkers will improve early detection and patient stratification in future years to come.
Subject(s)
Adrenal Gland Neoplasms/diagnosis , Adrenal Glands , Adrenal Gland Neoplasms/diagnostic imaging , Adrenal Gland Neoplasms/therapy , Adrenal Glands/anatomy & histology , Adrenal Glands/physiology , HumansABSTRACT
OBJETIVO: Determinar las razones de los diferentes patrones de captación suprarrenal de la colina radiomarcada en pacientes con cáncer de próstata o renal sometidos a una tomografía por emisión de positrones/tomografía computarizada con 18F-Fluoroetilcolina (18F-Colina). MÉTODOS: Se analizaron 49 estudios de tomografía por emisión de positrones/tomografía computarizada con colina radiomarcada (96 glándulas suprarrenales), determinándose su morfología, el patrón de captación y el valor de captación máximo estandarizado. Se registraron, evaluaron o contabilizaron otros 15 parámetros más, se calcularon los índices de parámetros escogidos y se comprobó su correlación con la captación de las glándulas suprarrenales. RESULTADOS: Las glándulas suprarrenales presentaron un amplio abanico de intensidades de captación de la colina radiomarcada (rango: 2-7,9), así como diferentes patrones de captación (difuso, focal o mixto). La captación máxima en la glándula suprarrenal derecha (4,3+/-1,2) se correlacionó positivamente con el grosor del parénquima en su punto de captación máxima (5,3mm +/-1,5; p = 0,000). La captación máxima en las glándulas derecha e izquierda, así como la captación suprarrenal media se correlacionaron con la captación máxima en la hipófisis (p = 0,000, p = 0,000 y p=0001, respectivamente), así como con la captación máxima en hígado (p = 0,008, p = 0,000 y p = 0,011, respectivamente). En el grupo estudiado no hubo correlación significativa entre los valores de captación estandarizada de las glándulas suprarrenales y el tratamiento hormonal ni con la edad de los pacientes. CONCLUSIONES: La variabilidad de la captación del radiotrazador de la colina en las glándulas suprarrenales depende probablemente del metabolismo corporal global y de la función hipofisaria expresada a través de correlaciones estadísticamente significativas con la captación hepática e hipofisaria. En la tomografía por emisión de positrones de las glándulas suprarrenales normales, debe evaluarse con precaución aquellos patrones de captación predominantemente focales o mixtos con áreas de captación focal, con el fin de evitar errores diagnósticos
PURPOSE: To find reasons of different radioactive choline adrenal uptake in prostate or renal cancer patients who underwent 18F-fluoroethylcholine positron emission tomography/computed tomography. METHODS: Forty-nine positron emission tomography/computed tomography studies with radioactive choline (96 adrenal glands) were analysed with respect to the adrenal glands shape, uptake pattern and maximum standardised uptake value. Fifteen other parameters were recorded, assessed or counted, ratios of chosen parameters were calculated, and checked for correlation with adrenal glands uptake. RESULTS: Adrenal glands presented a wide range of radioactive choline uptake intensities (range 2-7.9) and different uptake patterns (diffuse, focal or mixed). Maximum uptake in the right (4.3+/-1.2) adrenal gland positively correlated with the thickness of the parenchyma at the point of maximal uptake (5.3mm+/-1.5) (p = 0.000). Maximum uptake in the right and left adrenal gland, as well as mean adrenal gland uptake, correlated with maximum uptake in the pituitary gland (p = 0.000, p = 0.000 and p = 0.001, respectively) and with maximum uptake in liver (p = 0.008, p = 0.000 and p = 0.011, respectively). Neither hormonal treatment nor patients' age significantly correlated with standardised uptake values of adrenal glands in the studied group. CONCLUSIONS: The variability of radiocholine uptake in adrenal glands depends probably on overall body metabolism and hypophyseal function expressed by statistically significant correlation with liver and pituitary gland uptake. Predominant focal or mixed with focal areas uptake patterns on positron emission tomography in normal in computed tomography adrenal glands should be assessed with caution to avoid a diagnostic mistake
Subject(s)
Humans , Male , Adult , Middle Aged , Aged , Aged, 80 and over , Adrenal Glands/diagnostic imaging , Choline/analogs & derivatives , Fluorine Radioisotopes/pharmacokinetics , Tomography, X-Ray Computed , Adrenal Glands/anatomy & histology , Adrenal Glands/metabolism , Aorta, Thoracic/diagnostic imaging , Aorta, Thoracic/metabolism , Choline/pharmacokinetics , Liver/diagnostic imaging , Liver/metabolism , Positron-Emission Tomography , Tomography, X-Ray Computed/methods , Retrospective StudiesABSTRACT
PURPOSE: To find reasons of different radioactive choline adrenal uptake in prostate or renal cancer patients who underwent 18F-fluoroethylcholine positron emission tomography/computed tomography. METHODS: Forty-nine positron emission tomography/computed tomography studies with radioactive choline (96 adrenal glands) were analysed with respect to the adrenal glands shape, uptake pattern and maximum standardised uptake value. Fifteen other parameters were recorded, assessed or counted, ratios of chosen parameters were calculated, and checked for correlation with adrenal glands uptake. RESULTS: Adrenal glands presented a wide range of radioactive choline uptake intensities (range 2-7.9) and different uptake patterns (diffuse, focal or mixed). Maximum uptake in the right (4.3±1.2) adrenal gland positively correlated with the thickness of the parenchyma at the point of maximal uptake (5.3mm±1.5) (p=0.000). Maximum uptake in the right and left adrenal gland, as well as mean adrenal gland uptake, correlated with maximum uptake in the pituitary gland (p=0.000, p=0.000 and p=0.001, respectively) and with maximum uptake in liver (p=0.008, p=0.000 and p=0.011, respectively). Neither hormonal treatment nor patients' age significantly correlated with standardised uptake values of adrenal glands in the studied group. CONCLUSIONS: The variability of radiocholine uptake in adrenal glands depends probably on overall body metabolism and hypophyseal function expressed by statistically significant correlation with liver and pituitary gland uptake. Predominant focal or mixed with focal areas uptake patterns on positron emission tomography in normal in computed tomography adrenal glands should be assessed with caution to avoid a diagnostic mistake.
Subject(s)
Adrenal Glands/diagnostic imaging , Choline/analogs & derivatives , Fluorine Radioisotopes/pharmacokinetics , Positron Emission Tomography Computed Tomography , Adrenal Glands/anatomy & histology , Adrenal Glands/metabolism , Adult , Aged , Aged, 80 and over , Aorta, Thoracic/diagnostic imaging , Aorta, Thoracic/metabolism , Choline/pharmacokinetics , Humans , Liver/diagnostic imaging , Liver/metabolism , Male , Middle Aged , Positron Emission Tomography Computed Tomography/methods , Retrospective StudiesABSTRACT
OBJECTIVES: The objectives of this study were to describe the CT characteristics of the adrenal glands in healthy cats, to provide normal reference biometry for adrenal gland size and attenuation values, and to investigate the association with age, sex, laterality and body weight. METHODS: Retrospective evaluation of 30 CT studies of healthy adult cats recruited from September 2013 to July 2015 was performed. Healthy cats >1 year of age were included based on the absence of clinical signs, unremarkable physical examination, normal results of the complete blood count, biochemical profile, feline immunodeficiency virus, feline leukaemia virus and Bartonella species infection tests. The relationship between gland biometry (size and attenuation values) and the age, sex, laterality and body weight of cats were tested by two-way ANOVA. The intraclass correlation coefficient was assessed and mean, SD, range and reference interval provided. RESULTS: Twenty-seven cats were included. Bilobed, arrowhead and oval adrenal gland shape patterns were recognised, the first being most common. No statistically significant differences were observed between the biometric parameters (length, height and attenuation values) and age, sex, laterality or body weight of the cats. Regarding the width of the adrenal glands, there was a statistically significant effect of sex and laterality. The length (11.6 ± 2.1 mm) and height (6.1 ± 1.3 mm) were the most consistent biometrical parameters to describe adrenal glands. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE: Adrenal gland shape, size and attenuation CT data of healthy feline patients are provided in this study, as well as normal reference intervals for morphometric characterisation based on adrenal length and height.
Subject(s)
Adrenal Glands , Cats , Tomography, X-Ray Computed/veterinary , Adrenal Glands/anatomy & histology , Adrenal Glands/diagnostic imaging , Animals , Body Weight/physiology , Cats/anatomy & histology , Cats/physiology , Female , Male , Reference Values , Retrospective StudiesABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: Adrenal size has been used as the principal criterion for differentiating a normal gland from adrenal hyperplasia. The objectives of this study were to establish an ultrasonographic measurement of adrenal gland-to-aorta (adrenal/Ao) ratio to estimate the adrenal size and to assess the effects of bodyweight, age and sex on the adrenal/Ao ratio in non-adrenal gland disease dogs. METHODS: Two hundred and thirty-four dogs (120 entire females and 114 entire males) considered non-adrenal gland disease were included in this study. Dogs were allocated into three bodyweight categories (<10 kg, 10-20 kg and >20 kg), and four age groups (<1 year, 1-5 years, 5-10 years and >10 years old). Measurements of the maximal thickness of caudal pole of both adrenal glands and the aortic luminal diameter in sagittal plane were performed on the ultrasonographic images. Three different ratios were calculated for each dog. RESULTS: Sex and age did not influence on the adrenal/Ao ratio. There were differences (P<0.05) between the three dog sizes for adrenal/Ao ratio, being the highest value for small size and the lowest value for large size. CONCLUSIONS: In this study, only bodyweight influences the ultrasound measurement of the adrenal/Ao ratio in non-adrenal gland disease dogs.
Subject(s)
Adrenal Glands/anatomy & histology , Adrenal Glands/diagnostic imaging , Dogs/anatomy & histology , Animals , Aorta/diagnostic imaging , Female , Male , Organ Size , Ultrasonography/veterinaryABSTRACT
The OECD guideline 407 outlines the conduct of 28-day studies in rodents to detect systemic toxicity with focus on endocrine and immunotoxic effects. It was validated with the rat as preferred model species. Justification is required for other rodent species, as an increased variability is expected compared to the rat. We investigated the variability of organ weights in the mouse and compared this to data published for the rat in the validation report of test guideline 407. Furthermore, the influence of the immunotoxic model substance cyclophosphamide on spleen and thymus weights in the mouse in immunotoxicity studies (duration 28 days) is reported and discussed, an immunotoxic model substance was not included in the validation report. Historical control data were compiled for mouse studies performed according to OECD 407 and for immunotoxicity studies between 2008 and 2013â¯at BASF SE. For absolute weights, the coefficient of variation was determined for each study group and compared with the rat. Adrenal glands, ovaries and to lesser degree testes and prostate showed higher coefficients of variation in the mouse (most pronounced in adrenal glands in male animals: rat 5%-17%, CD1 mouse 20%-51%). Effects of cyclophosphamide were best detected measuring the thymus weight.
Subject(s)
Biological Variation, Individual , Body Weight , Control Groups , Organ Size , Toxicity Tests, Subacute , Adrenal Glands/anatomy & histology , Adrenal Glands/drug effects , Animals , Body Weight/drug effects , Brain/anatomy & histology , Brain/drug effects , Cyclophosphamide/toxicity , Female , Genitalia/anatomy & histology , Genitalia/drug effects , Heart/anatomy & histology , Heart/drug effects , Immunosuppressive Agents/toxicity , Kidney/anatomy & histology , Kidney/drug effects , Liver/anatomy & histology , Liver/drug effects , Male , Mice, Inbred C57BL , Organ Size/drug effects , Rats , Species Specificity , Spleen/anatomy & histology , Spleen/drug effects , Thymus Gland/anatomy & histology , Thymus Gland/drug effectsABSTRACT
In the present study, the relationship of normal adrenal dimensions with weight, aortic diameter, age and sex was evaluated. Moreover, a formula for estimating the normal dimensions of adrenal gland was provided. Thirty-two intact adult dogs that were considered healthy based on history, physical examination, routine blood works and specific adrenal tests as well as absence of any abnormal ultrasonographic findings were included. Adrenal glands and abdominal aorta were imaged in the sagittal plane by ultrasound. Length, maximal height of the cranial and caudal poles, area and circumference of the left and right adrenal glands and also the internal diameter of the abdominal aorta were measured. Analysis showed that there is a positive correlation between the adrenal gland dimensions and weight and aortic diameter. The ratio of adrenal gland dimensions and the aortic diameter was calculated, but this ratio showed a great amount of variability in tandem with a significant correlation to the weight; Meaning that the ratio of the adrenal gland dimensions to the aortic diameter was not a reliable index for evaluating the size of the normal adrenal gland in animals with different weights. Therefore, we used the weight along with adrenal measurements in a linear regression model, and then, we were able to estimate the adrenal gland dimensions in different weights. Knowing the relationship of normal adrenal dimensions with the indices such as weight, age, sex and diameter of abdominal aorta can help the clinicians to diagnose the adrenal gland diseases.
Subject(s)
Adrenal Glands/anatomy & histology , Aorta, Abdominal/anatomy & histology , Dogs/anatomy & histology , Adrenal Glands/diagnostic imaging , Age Factors , Animals , Aorta, Abdominal/diagnostic imaging , Body Weight , Dogs/classification , Female , Linear Models , Male , Sex Factors , Ultrasonography/veterinary , Ultrasonography, Doppler, Color/veterinaryABSTRACT
OBJECTIVE: Assessment of adrenal function in a sick neonate remains a challenge in spite of major advances in neonatal care. We used 2D ultrasound of adrenal glands to assess maturity of adrenal glands in extremely preterm infants and sick term and near term infants. STUDY DESIGN: We collected demographics details of 99 mother-infants pairs (24-41 weeks) and obtained 2D ultrasound scans of adrenal glands in first week of life to measure adrenal volume, fetal zone size, and adrenal to kidney ratios. Relationship between adrenal measurements, antenatal factors, and postnatal outcomes were studied. RESULTS: We reported normative adrenal gland volume data during gestation from 80 appropriate for gestational age (AGA) infants. In a binary analysis, adrenal size was significantly related to gender, race, intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), maternal chorioamnionitis, and maternal hypertension. Linear regression analysis showed that fetal zone is significantly related to not only gestational age but also chorioamnionitis and later development of intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH). Adrenal volume likewise is also related to gestational age, preeclampsia, and IVH. CONCLUSIONS: Antenatal maternal factors and uterine environment affects adrenal growth and development thus postnatal high resolution 2D US scan of adrenal glands can provide useful information to predict outcomes. This information can complement hormone and adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH) stimulation assays.
Subject(s)
Adrenal Glands/anatomy & histology , Adrenal Glands/diagnostic imaging , Parturition/physiology , Pregnancy Outcome/epidemiology , Ultrasonography/methods , Adrenal Gland Diseases/diagnosis , Adrenal Gland Diseases/epidemiology , Adrenal Gland Diseases/etiology , Adrenal Glands/physiology , Demography , Female , Humans , Infant, Newborn , Infant, Newborn, Diseases/diagnosis , Infant, Newborn, Diseases/epidemiology , Infant, Newborn, Diseases/etiology , Male , Organ Size , Pituitary-Adrenal Function Tests , PregnancyABSTRACT
Both kidney and adrenal gland disease have been identified in callimicos ( Callimico goeldii). Ultrasonography (US) and computed tomography (CT) are routinely utilized in veterinary patients with suspected renal or adrenal disease to determine size, shape, and echogenicity of these organs. No previous US and CT kidney and adrenal gland measurements have been published for callimicos. In this study, 14 callimicos were anesthetized using isoflurane via facemask to evaluate kidney and adrenal gland size using US for both organs and CT for kidneys. Animals were considered clinically healthy based on history, physical examination, hematology, serum chemistry, urinalysis, and abdominal US. Ultrasound organ measurements for length (L), width (W), and height (H) in centimeters (mean/median, 95% confidence interval) in clinically healthy animals were right kidney (L = 1.90, 1.76-2.01; W = 1.05, 0.97-1.13; H = 1.59, 1.48-1.69), left kidney (L = 1.84, 1.72-1.95; W = 1.16, 1.04-1.28; H = 1.54, 1.43-1.65), right adrenal gland (L = 0.38, 0.33-0.57; H = 0.19, 0.15-0.31) and left adrenal gland (L = 0.36, 0.32-0.39; H = 0.18, 0.17-0.20). All kidney measurements were positively correlated with animal weight ( P < 0.05) but had no significant correlation to age. Measurements did not have any significant relationship to evaluated blood and urine parameters. Results from this study establish baseline measurements for callimico kidneys and adrenal glands to help clinicians use these imaging modalities for evaluation of these organs in this endangered species.
Subject(s)
Adrenal Glands/anatomy & histology , Callimico/anatomy & histology , Kidney/anatomy & histology , Adrenal Glands/diagnostic imaging , Anesthetics, Inhalation/administration & dosage , Animals , Female , Isoflurane/administration & dosage , Kidney/diagnostic imaging , Male , Organ Size , Tomography, X-Ray Computed/veterinary , Ultrasonography/veterinaryABSTRACT
Chronic stress exposure commonly increases adrenals weight and changes their morphology. This study aimed to compare four methods to delimitate the cortical and medullary layers of adrenals glands in Nelore bulls. Fresh adrenals did not present differentiation between layers. Then, frozen adrenals were distributed in plastics bags with fixative Bouin (G1), 96ºGL ethylic alcohol (G2), 10% formaldehyde (G3), or 2.5% glutaraldehyde (G4). After 12 hours of fixation, the G1 adrenal glands did not show the entire cortical layer marked by Bouin's solution. For G2 and G3 there was a poor contrast, while for G4 there was a reasonable contrast. After 24 hours of fixation, G1 had an excellent contrast between layers, while G2 and G4 had a reasonable contrast and G3 a very bad contrast. After 48 hours it was difficult to differentiate cortical and medullar layers for G1; for Group 2 we get a reasonable contrast; and for G3 the contrast was bad. For G4 the contrast was not as sharp due to the medulla became dark. It was concluded that fixation of adrenals must be done in Bouin's solution for 24 hours to obtain an effective evaluation of the adrenals' morphometry.