Bovine viral diarrhea virus in New World camelids.

A virus known to cause multiple problems in cattle, bovine viral diarrhea virus, was isolated from 3 different cases in New World camelids. Virus isolation, immunoperoxidase staining, and fluorescent antibody staining were used to detect the virus. The herds involved were screened for antibody titers to bovine viral diarrhea and virus isolation from the buffy coat. Bovine viral diarrhea virus should be considered as a cause of death in young and old New World camelids.

Differentiation of gastrointestinal diseases of calves.

With a complete history, careful physical examination, and targeted diagnostics, the practitioner can differentiate the causes of gastrointestinal diseases in calves. The authors hope that this article helps the practitioner in this regard. Armed with a diagnosis, he or she can then proceed with proper treatment and prevention, which is the ultimate goal.

Differentiation of gastrointestinal diseases in adult cattle.

Many of the common gastrointestinal disorders of adult cattle may be diagnosed by a careful physical examination, whereas other disturbances require the use of diagnostic testing. It is important to differentiate the causes of gastrointestinal disturbances to make better treatment decisions and have a clearer prognosis for the specific animal or herd of cattle.

Immunogenicity and protective efficacy of a gE, gG and US2 gene-deleted bovine herpesvirus-1 (BHV-1) vaccine.

The efficacy and safety of a gene-deleted bovine herpesvirus-1 (BHV-1) vaccine was determined in a bovine herpesvirus challenge trial in calves. Three different doses of the vaccine were administered intramuscularly at 10(5), 10(6) and 10(7) PFU/ml and compared to a commercial vaccine and non vaccinated control calves. Challenge was performed by intranasal aerosolization with the Cooper strain of BHV-1 (3 x 10(4) PFU/ml). The non-vaccinated calves shed significantly (P < 0.05) more virus than all other groups on days 4, 8 and 10 post challenge. By day 14 post challenge, antibody titers for BHV-1 of calves vaccinated with 10(7) PFU/ml were significantly (P < 0.05) higher than the commercial or non-vaccinated calves. Clinical scores of non-vaccinated calves were significantly (P < 0.05) higher than all other groups on days 4-14 post challenge. With both radioimmunoprecipitation and competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays (C-ELISA), calves in the gene-deleted vaccine groups mounted comparable specific responses against gB, gC and gD post vaccination as calves in the commercial vaccine group, but in a dose dependent manner. These data suggest that the gene-deleted BHV-1 vaccine tested may be used as an effective vaccine in controlling BHV-1 infections.

Encephalitis induced by bovine herpesvirus 5 and protection by prior vaccination or infection with bovine herpesvirus 1.

Calves were intranasally challenged with bovine herpesvirus 5 (BHV5) and followed for the development of viral infection, clinical encephalitis, histologic lesions in the brain, and viral sequences in the trigeminal ganglia. Calves that were previously vaccinated with bovine herepesvirus 1 (BHV1, n = 4) or previously infected with BHV1 (n = 5) or that had not been exposed to either virus (n = 4) were compared. No calf developed signs of encephalitis, although all calves developed an infection as indicated by nasal secretion of BHV5 and seroconversion to the virus. Histologic lesions of encephalitis consisting of multifocal gliosis and perivascular cuffs of lymphocytes were observed in calves not previously exposed to BHV1. BHV5 sequences were amplified from the trigeminal ganglia of calves previously vaccinated and from calves not previously exposed to BHV1; calves sequentially challenged with BHV1 and later BHV5 had exclusively BHV1 sequences in their trigeminal ganglia. Administration of dexamethasone 28 days after BHV5 challenge did not influence clinical disease or histologic lesions in either previously unexposed calves (n = 2) or previously immunized calves (n = 2), although it did cause recrudescence of BHV5, as detected by nasal virus secretion.

Specific detection of shedding and latency of bovine herpesvirus 1 and 5 using a nested polymerase chain reaction.

A sensitive method for simultaneously detecting and discriminating between bovine herpesviruses types 1 and 5 (BHV-1 and BHV-5) was developed using a nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR) technique. Following amplification using type-common primers derived from gC sequences, amplification using type-specific nesting primers produced different-sized bands specific to the corresponding types, as demonstrated by blot hybridization. Less than 0.1 plaque-forming units (PFU) of each virus and 75 fg or less of viral DNA were routinely detected. The PCR technique amplified correct product from 4 BHV-5 isolates and from 48 BHV-1 isolates, all from the United States, and did not amplify heterologous herpesviruses. The PCR technique was more sensitive than virus isolation in detection of BHV-1 or BHV-5 in nasal secretions from experimentally and naturally infected calves, and it detected BHV-1 or BHV-5 in trigeminal ganglia from these calves.

Single intravenous and multiple dose pharmacokinetics of gentamicin in healthy llamas.

OBJECTIVE: To determine the pharmacokinetics of gentamicin sulfate in healthy llamas after i.v. administration of a single bolus and after repeated parenteral administration. DESIGN: Prospective clinical trial. ANIMALS: 19 clinically normal, adult male llamas for the single-dose trial and 10 of the 19 llamas for the multiple-dose trial. PROCEDURE: In the first trial, llamas were given gentamicin (5 mg/kg of body weight, i.v.) as a single bolus, and serum gentamicin concentration was monitored over the next 48 hours. 2 months later, llamas were given gentamicin (2.5 mg/kg) i.v. for the first day, then IM every 8 hours for 7 days. Serum gentamicin concentration and indices of renal function and damage were monitored during the 7 days. RESULTS: There were no significant dose- or time-related differences in clearance of the drug; volume of distribution; apparent coefficients of the distribution and elimination phases, alpha and beta, respectively; mean residence time; or distribution (t1/2 alpha) and elimination phase (t1/2 beta) half-lives. The 5 mg/kg i.v. kinetic study revealed t1/2 alpha of 14.5 +/- 5.06 minutes and t1/2 beta of 166 +/- 20.5 minutes. The 2.5 mg/kg i.v. kinetic study revealed t1/2 alpha of 17.7 +/- 6.59 minutes and t1/2 beta of 165 +/- 40.3 minutes. Peak serum gentamicin concentration averaged 10.10 micrograms/ml in the multiple-dose trial, and trough concentration averaged 1.50 micrograms/ml. CONCLUSIONS: Dose effects were not observed for gentamicin clearance, volume of distribution, or half-lives. Multiple dosing at 2.5 mg/kg every 8 hours does not appear to cause renal impairment in healthy llamas. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Gentamicin pharmacokinetic variables in llamas appear to resemble those in other ruminant species.

Forestomach acidosis in six New World camelids.

Forestomach acidosis was diagnosed in 2 llamas and 4 alpacas. All were young, group-housed, sexually intact males. Clinical signs included forestomach atony, lethargy, ataxia, diarrhea, and tachycardia. Forestomach distention was observed in only 1 llama. Clinicopathologic abnormalities included low forestomach fluid pH, hyperchloremia, hypokalemia, and metabolic acidosis. Although camelids differ from domestic ruminants in typical management practices and behavioral, anatomic, and physiologic characteristics, they are, nonetheless, susceptible to forestomach acidosis. Gastric fluid analysis was essential for an accurate diagnosis. Four of 6 camelids recovered after PO and IV treatment with alkalinizing agents and fluids, antibiotics, and thiamine.

Comparison of methods for sodium and potassium determination in llama urine.

OBJECTIVE: To compare results for sodium and potassium determination on llama urine, using flame emission spectrophotometry (flame photometry), atomic absorption spectrophotometry (AAS), indirect ion-selective electrode potentiometry (ISE), and direct ISE. DESIGN: Llama urine samples encompassing a wide range of electrolyte concentrations were analyzed for sodium and potassium concentrations, using 4 analytical methods, and results were compared statistically to assess correlation, bias, and potential interferents. SAMPLE POPULATION: 10 healthy male llamas. PROCEDURE: Urine specimens were obtained from llamas fitted with urine collection apparatus at defined intervals over a 24-hour period. Urine samples were centrifuged, and supernatants were frozen at -70 C until analysis. Analytical procedures were done, using standard laboratory protocols. Means, correlation coefficients, and bias were calculated, and differences were evaluated by ANOVA, with significance set at P < 0.05. RESULTS: There was strong correlation and good agreement among sodium values obtained by flame photometry, AAS, and indirect ISE. Sodium values obtained by use of direct ISE correlated poorly with other methods; urine is not an acceptable specimen for this method. Only AAS and indirect ISE had good correlation (r > 0.9) for potassium values. Data did not suggest presence of a potassium chelator in llama urine; urine potassium values measured by indirect ISE were significantly higher (by 150 to 200 mmol/L) than those measured by other methods. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Urine electrolyte analysis in llamas resulted in less agreement between methods than is generally found for serum. Data collection for patient monitoring or research analysis should be restricted to a single method to avoid differences in results attributable to analytical variance.

Prospective characterization of the clinicopathologic and immunologic features of an immunodeficiency syndrome affecting juvenile llamas.

The clinicopathologic and immunologic features of 15 llamas affected with juvenile llama immunodeficiency syndrome (JLIDS) are described. Healthy adult (n = 10) and juvenile (n = 10) llamas served as controls. JLIDS llamas were characterized by wasting, and clinically apparent, repeated infections were frequently observed. The median age at which a health problem was first perceived was 11.6 months. All 15 affected llamas died or were killed, and JLIDS was confirmed at necropsy. The median duration of illness was 3.5 months. Lymphocyte blastogenesis assays showed suppressed responses (particularly to Staphylococcus sp. Protein A) in JLIDS llamas. No evidence of retroviral infection was detected. Mild, normocytic, normochromic, non-regenerative anemia, low serum albumin concentration and low to low-normal globulin concentrations were typically found on initial clinical evaluation. Lymph node biopsies showed areas of paracortical depletion. All llamas affected with JLIDS had low serum IgG concentrations, pre-vaccination titers against Clostridium perfringens C and D toxoids of < or = 1:100, and no titer increase following vaccination.

Urinary indices in llamas fed different diets.

Indices of renal function and damage were measured in 12 healthy male adult llamas fed a diet of mixed alfalfa/grass hay (mixed hay) and water ad libitum. Using a collection bag fitted over the preputial area, urine samples were collected at 6, 12, and 24 hours. Serum samples were obtained concurrently to determine endogenous creatinine clearance (CL), total (TE) and fractional excretion (FE) of electrolytes (Na, K, Cl, P), electrolyte CL, urine and serum osmolality, urine enzyme activities (gamma-glutamyltransferase and N-acetyl-beta-D-glucosaminidase), and urine protein concentration. Urine production was quantified. Three months later, 10 of the 12 llamas were fed a grass hay diet and water ad libitum. Similar samples were obtained, and similar measurements were made. Urine production was higher when the llamas were fed the mixed hay diet. Total urine volume for llamas fed mixed hay ranged from 628 to 1,760 ml/24 h, with a median of 1,307.5 ml/24h, compared with a range of 620 to 1,380 ml/24 h and a median of 927.50 ml/24h for llamas fed grass hay. Median urine osmolality was higher in llamas fed mixed hay (1,906 mOsm/kg of body weight, with a range of 1,237 to 2,529 mOsm/kg), compared with llamas fed grass hay (1,666 mOsm/kg with a range of 1,163 to 2,044 mOsm/kg). Creatinine CL did not vary significantly over time for either diet.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Medical problems of llamas.

Numerous medical problems have been identified in the llama. Many of these problems are unique to the llama, whereas others are observed in multiple species. This article will serve as a supplement to the previous llama edition of the Veterinary Clinics. Topics covered include problems of recumbent llamas, gastrointestinal, respiratory, and renal systems.

Mycobacterium paratuberculosis infection in two llamas.

Mycobacterium paratuberculosis was diagnosed in 2 llamas by bacteriologic culturing and DNA probe testing of fecal and intestinal specimens. Diarrhea and weight loss were observed in both animals. Lesions in the gastrointestinal tracts of the 2 llamas were similar to pathologic changes reported in cattle infected with M paratuberculosis.

Experimental infection of neonatal calves with neurovirulent bovine herpesvirus type 1.3.

A type of bovine herpesvirus, BHV-1.3, causes encephalitis in calves, whereas BHV-1.1 causes respiratory disease. Three colostrum-deprived calves and two colostrum-fed calves were inoculated with BHV-1.3 by intranasal aerosolization. Two colostrum-deprived calves were inoculated with BHV-1.1 by intranasal aerosolization. BHV-1.3-inoculated calves demonstrated severe encephalitis with minimal respiratory lesions, and BHV-1.1-inoculated calves demonstrated severe respiratory lesions and no clinical signs of neurologic disease. Calves fed colostrum that contained virus neutralizing antibodies were protected against neurologic disease. Colostrum-fed BHV-1.3-inoculated calves did not develop disease although they did become infected; virus was shed in respiratory secretions for 10-13 days postinoculation, similar to infected colostrum-deprived calves. BHV-1.3 was reactivated from a latent state from one colostrum-fed calf after administration of dexamethasone 60 days postinoculation. Histopathologic examination of the three colostrum-deprived BHV-1.3-inoculated calves revealed severe lesions of encephalitis. One of the two BHV-1.1-inoculated calves had one focal lesion of encephalitis. Virus was isolated from brain tissue of colostrum-deprived BHV-1.3-inoculated calves and from one BHV-1.1-inoculated calf. Immunohistochemical staining for BHV-1 antigen was observed in neurons from the colostrum-deprived BHV-1.3-inoculated calves.

Acute renal failure in the llama (Lama glama).

This clinical report describes 2 cases of acute renal failure in the llama (Lama glama). Both llamas presented with histories of administration of potentially nephrotoxic agents prior to hospitalization. It is suggested that renal function be carefully monitored in all llamas treated with nephrotoxic agents, especially when history or clinical signs indicate increased risk for renal failure.

Aneurysmal bone cyst in a Holstein bull.

A 3-year-old Holstein bull was examined because of a mass involving the cranial portion of the right hemimandible and the oral cavity. The mass had been observed 2 weeks earlier. The bull had lost weight throughout the 45 days before admission, and was anorectic at the time of admission. An aneurysmal bone cyst of the mandible was diagnosed.

The role of passive immunity in bovine respiratory syncytial virus-infected calves.

The role of passive immunity in bovine respiratory syncytial virus (BRSV) infections in neonatal calves was evaluated. Calves were divided into groups as follows: colostrum-deprived, sham-inoculated; colostrum-deprived, BRSV-inoculated; and colostrum-fed, BRSV-inoculated. Calves were inoculated with a low-passage field isolate of BRSV for 4 consecutive days by a combined respiratory tract route and were euthanized 6 days after receiving the last inoculation. Arterial oxygen tension (Pao2) decreased significantly over time in colostrum-deprived, BRSV-inoculated calves (P less than .01) and was significantly different among treatment groups (P less than .05). A significant decrease in arterial oxygen saturation was observed in this same group over time (P less than .01). Mean percentage of pneumonic lung volume (determined by computer data digitalization) was significantly greater in infected, colostrum-deprived calves compared with the other groups (P less than .01), and BRSV antigen was detected in these calves by avidin-biotin immunoperoxidase staining. Thus, passive immunity derived from colostrum feeding decreased the severity of BRSV infections in calves.

Double cervices in two llamas.

Double cervices were diagnosed in 2 female llamas that were infertile. The condition is uncommon in other species. The condition results from the failure of fusion of the müllerian ducts during embryonic development. Diagnosis was facilitated by vaginoscopy. One case was verified as didelphia, with 2 uterine bodies and 2 cervices.

Congenital ichthyosis in a llama.

A 1-month-old male cria was examined because of diffuse hyperkeratosis and conjunctivitis that had existed since birth. The mucocutaneous junction of the nostrils as well as the neck, coronary bands, and axillary and inguinal regions were the most severely affected areas. Orthokeratosis involving the epidermis and follicular infundibula was observed on skin biopsy specimens. Electron microscopy revealed 4 to 6 granular layers and inter- and intracellular vacuolation in the stratum corneum; diagnosis of ichthyosis was established.