Platynosomum (Trematoda: Dicrocoeliidae) infection in barn owls (Tyto alba) in Northeastern Brazil.

Platynosomum spp. are parasites that inhabit the gallbladder and bile ducts of various mammals and birds worldwide. Most studies of Platynosomum spp. in birds focus on the observation and morphological characterization of the parasite through parasitological or molecular examinations, with scarce literature describing anatomopathological alterations, mainly histopathological. We report the case of a male barn owl infected with Platynosomum spp.. At necropsy, the barn owl showed dilation with parasites and fibrosis of the intrahepatic bile ducts and gallbladder. Microscopically, it was possible to identify trematodes in the bile ducts associated with a lymphoplasmacytic inflammatory infiltrate. The morphological structures of the worms were described on histopathology and direct examination. The presence of parasitism that is usually cosmopolitan in wild animals represents a risk to the biodiversity of fauna in the region, as well as a warning about the spread and maintenance of the biological cycle of the worm in humans and domestic animals.

Osteosarcoma in a free-living yellow armadillo (Euphractus sexcinctus).

An adult male free-living yellow armadillo (Euphractus sexcinctus) was found by hunters and referred for clinical evaluation because of a tumour-like lesion on the carapace. The animal was lethargic and weak with severe dehydration, enophthalmos and cachexia, and was euthanized because of its very poor clinical condition. Necropsy revealed a whitish, exophytic, irregular and moist mass (7 × 6.5 × 1.5 cm) in the caudal third of the carapace. On cut section, the mass was hard, compact, irregular and whitish. Histopathology revealed a densely cellular, expansive, poorly delimited neoplasm composed of malignant mesenchymal cells arranged in islands and cords, interspersed by numerous areas of irregularly mineralized osteoid matrix. Neoplastic cells were intensely immunolabelled for vimentin. The diagnosis of a high-grade osteosarcoma of osteoblastic subtype was based on the clinical, gross, histopathological and immunohistochemical findings. This first report of an osteosarcoma in an armadillo expands the list of armadillo diseases and will assist the management of these animals by veterinarians.

Hepatic arteriovenous malformation in a calf.

A case of hepatic arteriovenous malformation is described in a calf that presented with a marked increase in abdominal volume and died 12 h after birth. At necropsy, the calf had marked abdominal distension and haemoperitoneum. The left hepatic lobe was reduced in size and covered by slightly whitish and intensely vascularized membranous tissue. At the edge of the left lobe there were cystic structures filled with translucent fluid. On cut surface, there were multiple cavitations well delimited by whitish walls and multiple dilated blood vessels that communicated with the cavitations. Histopathology revealed an increase in the number of vascular structures of variable calibre within loose fibrous connective tissue. The diagnosis of hepatic arteriovenous malformation was based on the lesions and confirmed by immunohistochemistry. Hepatic arteriovenous malformations are rare in all species, have not been described in cattle and should be included as a cause of mortality in neonates with post-partum haemoperitoneum.

A Retrospective Study of Pythiosis in Domestic Animals in Northeastern Brazil.

Pythiosis is an endemic disease in northeastern Brazil and we now report the epidemiological, clinical and pathological findings in a retrospective study of naturally occurring cases in domestic animals. From January 1985 to December 2020, the Laboratory of Animal Pathology of the Federal University of Campina Grande examined 13,542 tissue samples from necropsies and biopsies. Among these samples, 306 were diagnosed as pythiosis: 195 cases in horses, 75 in sheep, 19 in dogs, six in mules, four in cattle, three in cats, two in goats, one in a donkey and one in an ostrich. Affected equids had lesions in the skin, mammary glands and nasal cavities. Affected sheep had cutaneous, nasal and digestive lesions while cattle and goats had cutaneous lesions. Carnivores developed lesions, mainly in the alimentary tract, of sufficient severity to cause death or result in euthanasia. The single affected bird had lesions in the alimentary tract and surgical excision resulted in remission. The disease had a long and life-threatening clinical course in most affected species but resolved spontaneously in cattle. Clinical signs were directly related to the location of the lesions, which were invariably characterized by chronic inflammation associated with intralesional hyphae. Veterinary clinicians and pathologists should be familiar with the clinicopathological features of pythiosis and the wide range of susceptible animal species.

Clinical and toxicological findings in nitrate and nitrite poisoning in cattle in Northeastern Brazil / Achados clínicos e toxicológicos na intoxicação por nitrato e nitrito em bovinos no Nordeste do Brasil

We report two outbreaks of nitrate and nitrite poisoning in Paraíba, Northeast Brazil. The first, due to Pennisetum purpureum (elephant grass), and the second, due to P. purpureum and Brachiaria spp. (brachiaria grass), both occurred during a prolonged drought. In the first outbreak, the irrigation of the pastures with wastewater and sewage contributed to nitrate accumulation. The second outbreak occurred in pastures cultivated in the border of a dam, that had been submerged for long time accumulating large amounts of organic matter in the soil. Other probably risk factors for nitrate accumulation included the use of chemical fertilizers and herbicides and burning of the vegetation. In the first outbreak, four calves out of a total of 42 cattle died, and in the second outbreak 49 out of 243 cattle, including adults, yearlings, and a 2-day-old calf died. The clinical signs included dyspnea, cyanosis, ataxia, and falls, leading to death. The presence of nitrates was detected in both outbreaks using the diphenylamine test. Quantitative tests were performed in the second outbreak using a portable nitrate meter, and high nitrate concentrations were found. The characteristic macroscopic findings and absence of microscopic lesions and response to treatment with methylene blue were key to the diagnosis of poisoning by nitrates and nitrites. We conclude that poisoning by nitrates and nitrites in ruminants in the semiarid region of Northeastern Brazil is frequent due to the cultivation of grasses in the border of dams that had been covered by water for long periods or in areas irrigated by wastewater and/or sewage. In addition, the use of a portable measuring device is an effective alternative for the quantification of nitrates in pastures.(AU)

Relatamos dois surtos de intoxicação por nitrato e nitrito na Paraíba, Nordeste do Brasil. O primeiro por Pennisetum purpureum (capim-elefante), e o segundo por P. purpureum e Brachiaria spp. (capim braquiária); ambos ocorreram durante uma estiagem prolongada. No primeiro surto, a irrigação das pastagens com água poluída e esgoto contribuiu para o acúmulo de nitrato. O segundo surto ocorreu em pastagens cultivadas na borda de uma barragem, que há muito tempo ficavam submersas, acumulando grande quantidade de matéria orgânica no solo. Outros prováveis fatores de risco para o acúmulo de nitrato incluíram o uso de fertilizantes químicos e herbicidas e a queima da vegetação. No primeiro surto, quatro bezerros de um total de 42 bovinos morreram, e no segundo surto 49 de 243 bovinos, incluindo adultos, jovens de um ano e um bezerro de 2 dias de idade morreram. Os sinais clínicos incluíram dispneia, cianose, ataxia e quedas, levando à morte. A presença de nitratos foi detectada em ambos os surtos pelo teste de difenilamina. Testes quantitativos foram realizados no segundo surto usando um medidor portátil de nitrato, e altas concentrações de nitrato foram encontradas. Os achados macroscópicos característicos e a ausência de lesões microscópicas e a resposta ao tratamento com azul de metileno foram fundamentais para o diagnóstico de intoxicação por nitratos e nitritos. Concluímos que a intoxicação por nitratos e nitritos em ruminantes na região semiárida do Nordeste do Brasil é frequente devido ao cultivo de gramíneas nas bordas de barragens que estiveram cobertas por água por longos períodos ou em áreas irrigadas por água poluída e/ou esgoto. Além disso, o uso de medidor portátil é uma alternativa eficaz para a quantificação de nitratos em pastagens.(AU)

Clinical and toxicological findings in nitrate and nitrite poisoning in cattle in Northeastern Brazil / Achados clínicos e toxicológicos na intoxicação por nitrato e nitrito em bovinos no Nordeste do Brasil

We report two outbreaks of nitrate and nitrite poisoning in Paraíba, Northeast Brazil. The first, due to Pennisetum purpureum (elephant grass), and the second, due to P. purpureum and Brachiaria spp. (brachiaria grass), both occurred during a prolonged drought. In the first outbreak, the irrigation of the pastures with wastewater and sewage contributed to nitrate accumulation. The second outbreak occurred in pastures cultivated in the border of a dam, that had been submerged for long time accumulating large amounts of organic matter in the soil. Other probably risk factors for nitrate accumulation included the use of chemical fertilizers and herbicides and burning of the vegetation. In the first outbreak, four calves out of a total of 42 cattle died, and in the second outbreak 49 out of 243 cattle, including adults, yearlings, and a 2-day-old calf died. The clinical signs included dyspnea, cyanosis, ataxia, and falls, leading to death. The presence of nitrates was detected in both outbreaks using the diphenylamine test. Quantitative tests were performed in the second outbreak using a portable nitrate meter, and high nitrate concentrations were found. The characteristic macroscopic findings and absence of microscopic lesions and response to treatment with methylene blue were key to the diagnosis of poisoning by nitrates and nitrites. We conclude that poisoning by nitrates and nitrites in ruminants in the semiarid region of Northeastern Brazil is frequent due to the cultivation of grasses in the border of dams that had been covered by water for long periods or in areas irrigated by wastewater and/or sewage. In addition, the use of a portable measuring device is an effective alternative for the quantification of nitrates in pastures.

Relatamos dois surtos de intoxicação por nitrato e nitrito na Paraíba, Nordeste do Brasil. O primeiro por Pennisetum purpureum (capim-elefante), e o segundo por P. purpureum e Brachiaria spp. (capim braquiária); ambos ocorreram durante uma estiagem prolongada. No primeiro surto, a irrigação das pastagens com água poluída e esgoto contribuiu para o acúmulo de nitrato. O segundo surto ocorreu em pastagens cultivadas na borda de uma barragem, que há muito tempo ficavam submersas, acumulando grande quantidade de matéria orgânica no solo. Outros prováveis fatores de risco para o acúmulo de nitrato incluíram o uso de fertilizantes químicos e herbicidas e a queima da vegetação. No primeiro surto, quatro bezerros de um total de 42 bovinos morreram, e no segundo surto 49 de 243 bovinos, incluindo adultos, jovens de um ano e um bezerro de 2 dias de idade morreram. Os sinais clínicos incluíram dispneia, cianose, ataxia e quedas, levando à morte. A presença de nitratos foi detectada em ambos os surtos pelo teste de difenilamina. Testes quantitativos foram realizados no segundo surto usando um medidor portátil de nitrato, e altas concentrações de nitrato foram encontradas. Os achados macroscópicos característicos e a ausência de lesões microscópicas e a resposta ao tratamento com azul de metileno foram fundamentais para o diagnóstico de intoxicação por nitratos e nitritos. Concluímos que a intoxicação por nitratos e nitritos em ruminantes na região semiárida do Nordeste do Brasil é frequente devido ao cultivo de gramíneas nas bordas de barragens que estiveram cobertas por água por longos períodos ou em áreas irrigadas por água poluída e/ou esgoto. Além disso, o uso de medidor portátil é uma alternativa eficaz para a quantificação de nitratos em pastagens.

Pythiosis in Equidae in Northeastern Brazil: 1985-2020.

The epidemiologic, clinical, pathologic, microbiological and immunohistochemical findings of pythiosis in equidae in northeastern Brazil are described. From January 1985 to December 2020 the Laboratory of Animal Pathology of the Federal University of Campina Grande received 1,331 tissue samples of equidae, 202 (15.17%) of which were diagnosed as pythiosis. Equidae of both sexes with ages varying from 4 months to 25 years were affected. Most animals were mixed breed (79.7%) and reared in an extensive system (73.26%). The disease occurred throughout the year but the highest incidence (70.29%) was noted after the rainy season. The clinical course was always chronic. The lesions were preferentially located on the limbs and ventral thoracoabdominal wall and characterized by nodules or tumor-like masses with ulcerations and serosanguineous discharge. The cut surface showed fistulous tracts containing kunkers. The direct examination of the kunkers and microbiological culture revealed sparsely septate and branched hyaline hyphae. Histopathology revealed a marked inflammatory infiltrate of eosinophils with multifocal well-defined areas of eosinophil necrosis and collagenolysis and intralesional negatively-stained hyphal profiles; in the donkey, a pyogranulomatous inflammatory infiltrate was noted surrounding these areas. Immunohistochemistry for Pythium insidiosum revealed strong immunolabelling of the hyphae. Pythiosis occurs endemically in equidae in northeastern Brazil, with seasonal variation in the incidence. The intralesional kunkers establishes an accurate presumptive diagnosis, but confirmation should preferably be performed through histopathology associated with immunohistochemistry, culture-based or molecular methods.

Pythiosis in cattle in Northeastern Brazil / Pitiose em bovinos no Nordeste do Brasil

The epidemiological, clinical and pathological aspects of cutaneous pythiosis occurring in cattle from three farms in the Northeastern of Brazil are described. A biopsy of the lesions of one bovine from each farm was performed. In two cases, the affected cattle had contact with water accumulated in dams during the dry season in the semiarid region. Another case occurred in the coastal tropical region in cattle grazing around irrigation channels. Clinically, lesions were observed mainly on the skin of the thoracic and/or pelvic limbs, characterized by flat and irregular ulcerated areas or nodules of varying sizes, some with fistulous tracts penetrating deep into the subcutaneous tissue. In one case the regional lymph nodes were affected. Histologically, in all cases, pyogranulomatous dermatitis associated with negative hyphae images, in hematoxylin-eosin stained sections, were observed. In sections stained by Grocott methenamine silver, the hyphae measured 2-8μm and had irregular ramifications and rare septations. Immunohistochemistry technique demonstrated strong immunolabeling for Pythium insidiosum. Pythiosis should be included in the differential diagnosis of dermatopathies in cattle in the Northeastern of Brazil.(AU)

Descrevem-se os aspectos epidemiológicos, clínicos e patológicos da pitiose cutânea em bovinos de três propriedades do Nordeste do Brasil. Uma biópsia das lesões de um bovino de cada propriedade foi realizada. Em dois casos, os bovinos afetados tiveram acesso à água acumulada em açudes durante a estação seca da região semiárida. O outro bovino acometido estava a pastoreio próximo a canais de irrigação na região litorânea. Clinicamente, as lesões foram observadas principalmente na pele dos membros torácicos e/ou pélvicos e caracterizavam-se por áreas planas e irregulares de ulceração ou nódulos de tamanhos variados, alguns com trajetos fistulosos penetrando profundamente no tecido subcutâneo. Em um caso, os linfonodos regionais foram afetados. Histologicamente, em todos os casos, observou-se dermatite piogranulomatosa associada a imagens negativas de hifas, em secções corados por hematoxilina e eosina. Em seções coradas por metenamina de prata de Grocott, as hifas mediam 2-8μm e possuíam ramificações irregulares com raras septações. A imuno-histoquímica demonstrou forte imunomarcação para Pythium insidiosum. A pitiose deve ser incluída como diagnóstico diferencial de dermatopatias de bovinos no Nordeste do Brasil.(AU)

Microbiological, molecular, and histopathological findings in goats experimentally infected with Actinobacillus seminis.

The objective of this study was to experimentally evaluate the pathogenicity of an Actinobacillus seminis isolate named SAAS01 in goats. Animals were challenged with 2 mL of a suspension containing 1,5 × 108 CFU/mL of A. seminis (SAAS01 isolate) through the intrapreputial, epididymis tail, and conjunctival routes. Epididymis and testicular fragments were submitted to histopathological exam, and semen samples underwent microbiological and molecular diagnoses. Clinically, a unilateral increase in firm consistency was observed in the epididymis and testicles of two animals inoculated in epididymis tail and in one animal inoculated through conjunctival sac; this firmness continued until the day of euthanasia. Two goats inoculated through epididymis tail and conjunctival sac routes presented histopathological findings with macroscopically and microscopically significant changes. A. seminis was isolated from semen samples collected from goats inoculated through the epididymis tail and conjunctival sac routes. A. seminis DNA was amplified from six semen samples of three goats inoculated through the epididymis tail, two in conjunctival sac and one through intrapreputial route. The experimental infection model using goats confirmed the pathogenicity of the A. seminis isolate, demonstrating the predilection of the agent for the epididymis, with clinical signs, histopathological lesions, bacterial isolation, and a positive molecular diagnosis.

Histological analysis of biocompatibility of different surgical adhesives in subcutaneous tissue.

The focus of this study was to test the hypothesis that there would be no difference between the biocompatibility of cyanoacrylate-based adhesives in rat subcutaneous tissues. In total, 60 male Wistar rats were used, and divided into four groups (n = 15): Group C (control, PVA-polyvinyl alcohol sponge), Group NO (N-butyl-2-octylcyanoacrylate), Group NH (n-hexyl-cyanoacrylate), and Group EC (Ethyl-cyanoacrylate). The animals were sacrificed after time intervals of 7, 15, and 30 days and tissues were analyzed under optical microscope as regards the events of inflammatory infiltrate, edema, necrosis, granulation tissue, giant cells, young fibroblasts, and collagen formation. The results were statistically analyzed by the Kruskal-Wallis and Dunn tests (p < .05). Significant inflammatory infiltrate was shown for all the adhesives in the time intervals of 7 (p = .004) and 15 days (p = .003). In the time interval of 30 days, moderate inflammatory infiltrate was observed in Groups NH and EC, with significant difference from Control (p = .001). The quantity of collagen fibers in all the experimental groups showed significant difference compared with Control in the time intervals of 7 (p = .002) and 15 days (p = .001), at 30 days only Group EC showed a smaller quantity of collagen fibers in comparison with Control (p = .001). The hypothesis was rejected. The adhesive N-butyl-2-octylcyanoacrylate had less influence on the inflammatory intensity of multinucleated giant cells. Ethyl-cyanoacrylate demonstrated the lowest level of biocompatibility among the adhesives, but its use in clinical practice may be promising for coaptation of smaller edges of superficial tissue. Surgical adhesives were shown to be feasible for clinical use in substitution of conventional suturing. Ethyl-cyanoacrylate should be used with caution due to its greater influence on tissues.

Tuberculosis of the central nervous system in cattle in Paraíba, Brazil / Tuberculose no sistema nervoso central de bovinos na Paraíba

This paper describes six cases of tuberculosis in the central nervous system (CNS) of cattle in the state of Paraíba in northeastern Brazil. We reviewed the autopsy reports of 851 bovine necropsies performed from 2003 to 2016. Seventy-three (8.6%) cattle were diagnosed with tuberculosis and six showed lesions in the CNS. Three cases affected cattle up to two-year-old and other three affected adults. Three cattle presented exclusively nervous signs, two had respiratory signs and weight loss and one did not present any clinical signs. At necropsy, five cattle had thickening of the leptomeninges of the cerebellum, pons, obex, spinal cord and cortex, mainly, in the region near the brain basilar Willis´ circle. Another animal, presented a single focal lesion in the cerebellum. Microscopically we observed moderate to severe granulomatous meningitis and encephalitis. Five cattle presented lesions in the lungs and mediastinal lymph nodes and three of them had disseminated lesions in other organs. In all cattle acid-fast bacilli were observed in the lesions and marked positive for immunohistochemistry with polyclonal antibody anti-Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It is concluded that bovine tuberculosis of central nervous system occurs sporadically in Paraíba, in cattle of different ages, most of them with disseminate lesions in other organs. The location of the lesions suggests that the agent invaded the brain by hematogenous route through the circle of Willis.(AU)

Descrevem-se seis casos de tuberculose no sistema nervoso central (SNC) em bovinos, no semiárido da Paraíba. Foram revisados os laudos de um total de 851 necropsias de bovinos realizadas no período de 2003 a 2016. Destes, 73 (8,6%) foram diagnosticados com tuberculose e seis apresentavam lesões no SNC. Três casos ocorreram em bovinos de até dois anos de idade e três em bovinos adultos. Três bovinos apresentaram exclusivamente sinais nervosos, dois tinham sinais respiratórios e perda de peso e um não apresentava nenhum sinal clínico. Macroscopicamente, em cinco bovinos, havia espessamento das leptomeninges do cerebelo, medula espinhal, ponte, obex, colículos e córtex, principalmente, na região basilar encefálica próxima ao polígono de Willis. Em apenas um bovino houve a presença de tubérculo único no cerebelo. Microscopicamente observou-se moderada a acentuada meningite e encefalite granulomatosa. Cinco bovinos apresentaram lesões pulmonares e nos gânglios mediastínicos e três deles tinham lesões disseminadas em outros órgãos. Em todos os bovinos foram encontrados bacilos ácido-álcool resistentes intralesionais e todos tiveram marcação positiva na técnica de imuno-histoquímica com anticorpo policlonal anti-Mycobacterium tuberculosis. Conclui-se que a tuberculose do sistema nervoso central de bovinos ocorre de forma esporádica na Paraíba, principalmente em bovinos com lesões disseminadas em outros órgãos. Sugere-se que a disseminação do agente ocorre pela via hematógena, possivelmente através do polígono de Willis.(AU)

Aspectos epidemiológicos, clínicos e anatomopatológicos da hepatite infecciosa canina: 15 casos / Epidemiological, clinical and pathological aspects of infectious canine hepatitis: 15 cases

Descrevem-se os principais aspectos epidemiológicos, clínicos e anatomopatológicos de casos de hepatite infecciosa canina diagnosticados no Laboratório de Patologia Animal da Universidade Federal de Campina Grande, durante o período de janeiro de 2003 a dezembro de 2016. Dos 1.640 cães necropsiados, 15 foram diagnosticados como hepatite infecciosa canina (0,91%). Dos cães acometidos nove eram machos e seis fêmeas. As idades variaram de 45 dias a sete anos, sendo a maioria filhotes. Dez animais não apresentavam raça definida, quatro eram Poodles e um Rottweiler. A maioria dos cães não recebeu nenhum tipo de protocolo vacinal. Os cães eram oriundos dos municípios de Patos, São Mamede e Teixeira, pertencentes ao estado da Paraíba, Nordeste do Brasil. A maioria dos cães apresentou curso clínico variando de hiperagudo a agudo. Os principais sinais clínicos foram convulsão, apatia e hiporexia. Na necropsia, as principais alterações foram observadas no fígado que se apresentava de pálido a alaranjado e com áreas irregulares avermelhadas na superfície capsular, além de acentuação do padrão lobular e edema na parede da vesícula biliar. Hemorragias foram observadas em vários órgãos. Na histopatologia havia necrose centrolobular de hepatócitos associada a corpúsculos de inclusão viral intranucleares, hemorragia e infiltrado inflamatório misto. O diagnóstico foi estabelecido com base nas características lesões histopatológicas e foi confirmado por imuno-histoquímica. A hepatite infecciosa canina ocorre ocasionalmente na Paraíba, acometendo particularmente cães jovens e não vacinados.(AU)

We described the main epidemiological, clinical and pathological aspects of canine infectious hepatitis diagnosed in the Laboratory of Animal Pathology of the Federal University of Campina Grande during the period from January 2003 to December 2016. Of the 1,640 necropsied dogs, 15 were diagnosed as infectious canine hepatitis (0.91%). Of the dogs affected nine were males and six females. The ages ranged from 45 days to seven years, being most of them young. Ten animals were mixed breed, four were Poodles and one Rottweiler. Most of the dogs do not received any vaccine protocol. The dogs came from the municipalities of Patos, São Mamede and Teixeira, from Paraiba, northeastern of Brazil. Most of the dogs presented clinical course varying from hyperacute to acute. The main clinical signs were seizure, apathy and hyporexia. At necropsy, the major alterations were observed in the liver, which was pale to orange and with irregular reddish areas on the capsular surface, besides accentuation of the lobular pattern and edema in the wall of the gallbladder. Hemorrhages were observed in several organs. In the histopathology there was centrolobular necrosis of hepatocytes associated with intranuclear viral inclusion bodies, hemorrhages and mixed inflammatory infiltrate. The diagnosis was established based on the characteristic histopathological lesions and was confirmed by immunohistochemistry. Infectious canine hepatitis occurs occasionally in the Paraiba, affecting particularly young and unvaccinated dogs.(AU)

Micobactérias diagnosticadas em gatos domésticos no sertão da Paraíba / Mycobacteriae diagnosed in domestic cats in the backland of Paraiba, Brazil

Descrevem-se dois casos de infecção por Mycobacterium sp. em gatos domésticos no sertão da Paraíba, Nordeste do Brasil. Os animais apresentavam emagrecimento progressivo, dispneia, tosse e linfadenomegalia generalizada em um dos casos, com evolução clínica de um e sete meses, respectivamente. Macroscopicamente as lesões estavam restritas aos linfonodos superficiais e/ou profundos e parênquima pulmonar, caracterizadas por nódulos multifocais ou multifocais a coalescentes, amarelados, irregulares que ao corte apresentavam áreas multifocais a coalescentes amareladas, friáveis e caseosa, além de áreas multifocais brancacentas e firmes. Histologicamente, verificou-se linfadenite e pneumonia granulomatosa caracterizada por áreas centrais de necrose e mineralização central circundadas por macrófagos, células epiteliais e tecido conjuntivo fibroso. No primeiro caso havia ainda hepatite granulomatosa discreta e aleatória. Em ambos os casos, foram visualizados bacilos álcool-ácido resistentes livres e no citoplasma de macrófagos na coloração de Ziehl-Neelsen. Houve imunomarcação para Mycobacterium sp. no citoplasma de macrófagos em ambos os casos. Na PCR, identificou-se apenas o gênero Mycobacterium no Caso 1 e Mycobacterium bovis no Caso 2. O diagnóstico de infecção por Mycobacterium sp. nos felinos foi realizado com base nos achados anatomopatológicos e imuno-histoquímica. Pela PCR foi realizado o diagnóstico etiológico de micobacteriose no Caso 1 e tuberculose por M. bovis no Caso 2. O diagnóstico das doenças causadas por micobactérias em felinos, principalmente aquelas em que M. bovis esteja envolvido, é de extrema importância para a saúde pública, destacando o potencial zoonótico desta espécie, pois muitos animais infectados podem ser assintomáticos ou apresentarem sinais clínicos inespecíficos.(AU)

This report describes two cases of domestic cats infected with Mycobacterium sp. in the backland of Paraiba, Northeast Brazil. The animals manifested nonspecific clinical signs, characterized by progressive weight loss, dyspnea, cough and generalized lymphadenomegaly in one cases, and clinical evolution of one and seven months respectively. Macroscopically the lesions were restricted to superficial and/or deep lymph nodes and pulmonary parenchyma, characterized by multifocal or multifocal to coalescent, yellowish and irregular nodules that presented multifocal areas with yellowish, friable and caseous as well as multifocal to coalescent, white and firm areas. Histologically, it was observed lymphadenitis and granulomatous pneumonia in both cases, varying in intensity of inflammatory response and degree of mineralization. The granulomas were constituted by macrophages and epithelioid cells, some with marked necrosis and central mineralization, surrounded by a large amount of connective tissue. In the first case there were also discrete and random granulomatous hepatitis. In both cases alcohol-acid-resistant bacilli were visualized inside the cytoplasm of macrophages in Ziehl-Neelsen staining; there was immunostaining for Mycobacterium sp. in the cytoplasm of macrophages. Through PCR was identified only the genus Mycobacterium in Case 1, and Mycobacterium bovis in Case 2. The diagnosis of Mycobacterium sp. In the cats was performed based on anatomopathological findings and immunohistochemistry. The PCR was performed the etiological diagnosis of mycobacteriosis in Case 1 and tuberculosis by M. bovis in Case 2. The diagnosis of diseases caused by mycobacteria in cats, especially those in which M. bovis was involved, is extremely important for public health highlighting the zoonotic potential of this species, since many infected animals may be asymptomatic or show nonspecific clinical signs.(AU)

Serum and liver copper, iron, molybdenum and zinc concentration in goats and sheep in the state of Paraíba, Brazil / Concentrações sérica e hepática de cobre, ferro, molibdênio e zinco em ovinos e caprinos no estado da Paraíba

This study aimed to determine Cu, Fe, Mo, and Zn liver and serum concentration in sheep and goats raised in the rangelands of the semiarid region of the state of Paraíba, Brazil, during the dry and rainy seasons, and to establish if Cu deficiency is primary or secondary to high ingestion of Mo or Fe. Cu, Zn, Mo and Fe concentrations were determined by atomic absorption spectrometry coupled to mass (ICP-Plasma) in 253 liver and serum samples randomly selected in a slaughterhouse. The mean serum concentrations of Cu in the goats and sheep were 11.82±3.28μmol/L and 10.97±3.61μmol/L respectively. The liver Cu concentrations were 160.37±11.77mg/kg in goats and 152.12±13.16mg/kg in sheep. The mean serum Fe concentrations were 16.38±4.51μmol/L in goats and 25.41±9.76μmol/L in sheep. The mean Fe concentrations in the liver were 189.37±6.51mg/kg in goats and 313.70±12.89mg/kg in sheep. The mean serum concentrations of Mo were 0.14±0.04μmol/L in goats and 0.29±0.06μmol/L in sheep. The mean Mo concentrations in the liver were 6.09±0.23mg/kg in goats and 6.22±0.15mg/kg in sheep. The mean serum Zn concentrations were 8.30±1.91μmol/L in goats and 8.63±2.22μmol/L in sheep. The mean Zn concentrations in the liver were 132.80±3.39mg/kg in goats and 130.70±2.99mg/kg in sheep. These results show low or marginal serum and liver concentrations of Cu and Zn, indicating that these minerals should be supplemented. The normal or even low concentrations of Mo and the high concentration of Fe suggest that Cu deficiency may be primary, due to low Cu ingestion, or secondary due to high Fe ingestion.(AU)

Este estudo teve como objetivo determinar Cu, Fe, Mo e Zn no fígado e soro em ovinos e caprinos criados nas pastagens da região semiárida do Estado da Paraíba, Brasil, nas estações seca e chuvosa, e estabelecer se a deficiência de Cu e primaria ou secundaria a alta ingestão de Mo ou Fe. Cu, Zn, Mo, e Fe foram determinados por espectrometria de absorção atômica com plasma indutivamente acoplado (ICP-OES) em 253 amostras de fígado e soro selecionados aleatoriamente em um matadouro. As concentrações séricas de Cu nos caprinos e ovinos foram 11,82±3,28mmol/L e 10,97±3,61mmol/L, respectivamente. As concentrações de Cu no fígado foram de 160,37±11,77mg/kg em caprinos e 152,12±13,16mg/kg em ovinos. As concentrações séricas de Fe foram de 16,38±4,51mmol/L em caprinos e 25,41±9,76mmol/L em ovinos. As concentrações de Fe no fígado foram 189,37±6,51mg/kg em caprinos e 313.70±12,89mg/kg em ovinos. As concentrações séricas de Mo foram de 0,14±0,04mmol/L em caprinos e 0,29±0,06mmol/L em ovinos. As concentrações de Mo no fígado foram 6,09±0,23mg/kg em caprinos e 6,22±0,15mg/kg em ovinos. As concentrações séricas de Zn foram 8,30±1,91mmol/L em caprinos e 8,63±2,22mmol/L em ovinos. As concentrações de Zn no fígado foram 132,80±3,39mg/kg em cabras e 130,70±2,99mg/kg em ovelhas. Estes resultados mostram concentrações baixas ou marginais de Cu e Zn no soro e fígado indicando que estes minerais devem ser suplementados. As concentrações normais ou mesmo baixos de Mo e as altas concentrações de Fe sugerem que a deficiência de Cu pode ser primária, devido à baixa ingestão de Cu, ou secundária a alta ingestão de Fe.

Doenças do sistema nervoso central em cães / Central nervous system disorders diagnosed in dogs

São descritas doenças do sistema nervoso central (SNC) em cães diagnosticadas no sertão da Paraíba. Os registros de necropsia de 1.205 cães foram revisados. Em 354 casos (29,38%) foram registrados história clínica de alterações do sistema nervoso. Duzentos e noventa e seis casos tiveram diagnóstico definitivo e 58 foram inconclusivos. As doenças infecciosas foram observadas em 59,60% (211/354) de casos que representam a principal causa de distúrbios neurológicos; 53% dos casos (186/354) foram representadas por doenças virais; 3,11% (11/354) foram de etiologia parasitária, 2,54% (9/354) foram causadas por bactérias e 1,41% (5/354) por fungos. Os agentes físicos representaram a segunda causa mais importante de transtornos do SNC com 9,89% (35/354) e os tumores a terceira causa com 5,93% (21/354). Outras alterações pouco frequentes foram alterações metabólicas secundárias a insuficiência hepática ou renal, representando 2,54% (9/354). Casos raros de hidrocefalia congênita foram observados, 1,41% (5/354). Os casos de manifestações neurológicas associadas a alterações vasculares, degenerativas e inflamatórias não infecciosas, muitas das quais uma causa específica não foi estabelecida representaram 4,24% (15/354); Estavam dentro das seguintes categorias de doenças: Infartos isquêmicos e hemorrágicos (6/15), necrose vascular fibrinoide (5/15), doença do disco intervertebral (2/15), meningoencefalite granulomatosa (1/15) e granuloma de colesterol (1/15). Os distúrbios do sistema nervoso central representam uma importante causa de morte ou eutanásia em cães na região semiárida da Paraíba. Os sinais clínicos variaram de acordo com o agente envolvido, localização e distribuição das lesões. O conhecimento dos principais agentes que pode afetar o SNC canino é importante ao fazer uma lista de diagnóstico diferencial.(AU)

Central nervous system (CNS) diseases in dogs diagnosed in the backlands of Paraiba are described. The necropsy records of 1,205 of dogs were reviewed. In 354 cases (29.38%) a history of clinical alterations of the nervous system were recorded. Two hundred and ninety six cases had a definitive diagnosis and 58 were inconclusive. Infectious diseases were observed in 59.60% (211/354) of cases representing the main cause of neurological disorders; 53% of the cases (186/354) were represented by viral diseases; 3.11% (11/354) were of parasitic etiology, 2.54% (9/354) were caused by bacteria and 1.41% (5/354) by fungi. Physical agents represented the second most important cause of CNS disorders with 9.89% (35/354) and tumors third cause with 5.93% (21/354). Other uncommon observed disorders were metabolic changes secondary to liver or kidney failure, accounting for 2.54% (9/354). Rare cases of congenital hydrocephalus were observed, 1.41% (5/354). The cases of neurological manifestations associated with vascular, degenerative and inflammatory noninfectious lesions, for many of which were specific cause was not established accounted for 4.24% (15/354); they were within the following disease categories: ischemic and hemorrhagic infarcts (6/15), vasculitis fibrinoide necrosis (5/15), intervertebral disc disease (2/15), granulomatous meningoencephalitis (1/15) and cholesterol granuloma (1/15). The central nervous system disorders represent an important cause of death or reason for euthanasia in dogs in the semiarid region of Paraiba. Clinical signs vary according to the agent involved, and the location and distribution of the lesions. The knowledge of the main agents that can affect the canine CNS it is important when making a list of differential diagnosis.(AU)

Encefalopatia hepática secundária à intoxicação por Tephrosia cinerea em ovinos / Hepatic encephalopathy secondary to poisoning by Tephrosia cinerea in sheep

A intoxicação por Tephrosia cinerea causa fibrose hepática periacinar em ovinos na região semiárida do Nordeste, com quadro clínico de ascite acentuada, e, ocasionalmente, com sinais neurológicos. Neste trabalho foram estudadas 16 ovinos em 6 surtos de intoxicação por T. cinerea. Todos os ovinos apresentaram lesões histológicas de fibrose periacinar e seis apresentaram, no encéfalo, vacuolização da substância branca e da junção entre a substância branca e a cinzenta com presença de astrócitos de Alzheimer tipo II na substância cinzenta. A doença foi reproduzida experimentalmente em dois ovinos que apresentaram ascite, desvios vasculares (shunts) porto-sistêmicos e sinais nervosos com lesões histológicas semelhantes a dos casos espontâneos. Na técnica de imuno-histoquímica houve marcação fraca ou ausente do citoplasma astrocitário para o anticorpo anti-GFAP em seis ovinos evidenciando uma alteração degenerativa, em que os astrócitos acumulam corpos densos e reduzem o volume de GFAP. Houve marcação positiva para o anticorpo anti-S100 em oito ovinos, incluindo os dois ovinos experimentais o que sugere reatividade celular, com proliferação mitocondrial e de retículo endoplasmático liso. Estas alterações são caraterísticas dos efeitos da amônia nos astrócitos. Conclui-se que na intoxicação por T. cinerea em alguns ovinos ocorrem sinais nervosos em consequência da encefalopatia hepática.(AU)

In the semiarid region of northeastern Brazil, Tephrosia cinerea causes periacinar hepatic fibrosis in sheep with severe ascites and, occasionally, nervous signs. Sixteen sheep from six outbreaks of T. cinerea poisoning were studied. All sheep had histologic lesion of periacinar fibrosis and six showed, in the brain, vacuolization (spongy degeneration) of the white matter and junction between grey and white matter and presence of Alzheimer type II astrocytes in the grey matter. The disease was produced experimentally in two sheep, that presented porto-sistemic shunts and similar histologic lesions as those observed in the spontaneous cases. Immunohistochemistry revealed weak labelling with anti-GFAP antibodies suggesting a degenerative alteration of astrocytes with accumulation of dense bodies and reduction of the GFAP. There was strong labelling with anti-S100 antibodies suggesting cellular reactivity with proliferation of mitochondria and endoplasmatic reticulum. Such alterations are characteristic of the effects caused by ammonia on the astrocytes. It is concluded that in poisoning by T. cinerea nervous signs due to hepatic encephalopathy occur in some sheep.(AU)

Características epidemiológicas, clínico-patológicas e morfotintoriais de quatorze casos de nocardiose em cães / Epidemiological, clinical, pathological and morphotinctorial features of fourteen cases of nocardiosis in dogs

Este artigo descreve os aspectos epidemiológicos, clínicos, patológicos e características morfotintoriais em quatorze casos de nocardiose em cães. Para isso foi realizado um estudo retrospectivo durante o período de janeiro de 2005 a dezembro de 2015 e selecionados os casos sugestivos de nocardiose. A identificação e caracterização do agente foi realizada através de técnicas histoquímicas especiais de Metenamina nitrato de prata de Grocott (GMS), Ziehl-Neelsen modificado, coloração de Gram do tipo Brown-Brenn modificado e Giemsa. Foram afetados predominantemente filhotes e em doze casos havia associação com o vírus da cinomose canina (VCC). Os sinais clínicos variaram de alterações respiratórias, neurológicas e cutâneas, relacionadas principalmente à infecção concomitante pelo VCC. Macroscopicamente haviam áreas multifocais a coalescentes, branco-amareladas, firmes, elevadas na superfície e que se aprofundavam ao corte, por vezes com material purulento, entremeadas por áreas avermelhadas irregulares afetando principalmente pulmões, linfonodos, fígado, rins e encéfalo. As lesões cutâneas foram observadas predominantemente nas regiões cervical e inguinal e variaram de supurativas a piogranulomatosas. No exame histopatológico a lesão era caracterizada principalmente por inflamação piogranulomatosa, porém em algumas áreas havia predomínio de inflamação necrossupurativa, e frequentemente eram observados macrófagos epitelioides, formando aglomerados de forma radiada, muitas vezes lembrando pseudorosetas. Nas técnicas histoquímicas foram observadas estruturas filamentosas, ramificadas, não septadas, medindo aproximadamente 1µm de espessura, impregnadas na coloração de prata, coradas em vermelho no Ziehl-Neelsen modificado, em azul na coloração de Gram do tipo Brown-Brenn modificado e fracamente rósea pálido no Giemsa. A nocardiose deve ser considerada em animais jovens que apresentam sinais respiratórios e neurológicos progressivos, bem como em lesões cutâneas com envolvimento do subcutâneo e linfonodos regionais. Deve ser investigado ainda um provável fator predisponente, como a infecção pelo vírus da cinomose canina e hemoparasitoses. O diagnóstico foi estabelecido através do exame histopatológico baseando-se na morfologia da bactéria e suas características histoquímicas, distinguindo principalmente de outros agentes bacterianos e fúngicos, constituindo uma importante ferramenta para o diagnóstico, quando não é possível a coleta do material para cultivo e isolamento do agente.(AU)

This paper describes the epidemiological, clinical, pathological and morphotinctorial characteristics in fourteen cases of nocardiosis in dogs. A retrospective study for the period of January 2005 to December 2015 was made and selected suggestive cases of nocardiosis. The identification and characterization of the agent was performed by special histochemical techniques Methenamine silver nitrate Grocott (GMS), modified Ziehl-Neelsen, Gram stain type modified Brown-Brenn and Giemsa. Were affected predominantly young and in twelve cases were associated with canine distemper virus (CDV). Clinical signs vary from respiratory, neurological and skin changes, mainly related to concomitant infection by CDV. Macroscopically had multifocal areas coalescing, yellowish-white, firm, elevated in surface and deepened the court, sometimes with purulent material, intermixed by irregular reddened areas affecting mainly lungs, lymph nodes, liver, kidneys, and brain. The cutaneous lesions were predominantly observed in cervical and inguinal and ranged from suppurative well as pyogranulomatous. In the histopathologic examination the injury was mainly characterized by inflammation pyogranulomatous, but in some areas there was a predominance of necrossupurativa inflammation, epithelioid macrophages and were frequently observed, forming clusters radiated form, often reminding rosettes. In the histochemical techniques were observed filamentous structures, branched, non-septate, measuring approximately 1µm thick, impregnated on silver staining, stained in red on the modified Ziehl-Neelsen, in blue on Gram stain type modified Brown-Brenn and weakly pale pink in Giemsa. The nocardiosis should be considered in young animals with progressive respiratory and neurological signs, as well as skin lesions involving the subcutaneous tissue and regional lymph nodes. It should be further investigated a possible predisposing factor, such as infection by canine distemper virus and hemoparasites. The diagnosis was established by histopathological examination based on the morphology of the bacteria and their histochemical characteristics, distinguishing mainly from other bacterial and fungal agents and is an important tool for the diagnosis, when the collection of material for cultivation and isolation of the agent is not possible.(AU)

Surto de parvovirose cardíaca em filhotes de cães no Brasil / Outbreak of parvoviral myocarditis in puppies in Brazil

Descrevem-se os aspectos epidemiológicos, clínicos, patológicos e imuno-histoquímicos de um surto de parvovirose cardíaca em filhotes de cães. O surto ocorreu em um canil localizado na cidade de Parnamirim, Rio Grande do Norte, região Nordeste do Brasil. De uma ninhada de nove filhotes, um foi natimorto e seis morreram entre 35-57 dias de idade após apresentarem sinais clínicos cardiorrespiratórios com evolução de 10 minutos a três dias. Dos seis filhotes que morreram, dois foram encaminhados para necropsia. No exame macroscópico, ambos os animais apresentaram discreta efusão pericárdica, coração marcadamente globoso, difusa palidez nas superfícies epicárdica e miocárdica e dilatação da cavidade ventricular esquerda. Nos pulmões, observaram-se áreas multifocais avermelhadas na superfície pleural e ao corte fluía líquido espumoso e levemente avermelhado. O fígado estava difusamente aumentado de tamanho, com acentuação do padrão lobular e com áreas pálidas entremeadas por áreas escuras que, ao corte, se aprofundavam ao parênquima. Microscopicamente observou-se miocardite linfohistiocítica, necrosante, associada a fibrose intersticial e corpúsculos de inclusões virais basofílicos intranucleares em cardiomiócitos. Nos pulmões observou-se pneumonia intersticial e edema, e no fígado notou-se degeneração e necrose centrolobular a mediozonal associada à congestão e hemorragia. O diagnóstico foi confirmado por imuno-histoquímica. A forma miocárdica da parvovirose canina pode ocorrer ocasionalmente em filhotes de cadelas que não foram efetivamente vacinadas. Essa forma clínica da doença caracteriza-se por alterações cardiorrespiratórias e morte hiperaguda ou aguda dos animais afetados.(AU)

We describe the epidemiological, clinical, pathological and immunohistochemical aspects of parvoviral myocarditis outbreak in puppies. The outbreak occurred in a kennel located in Parnamirim, Rio Grande do Norte, Northeastern of Brazil. In a litter of nine pups, one was stillbirth and six died between 35-57 days of age after cardiopulmonary clinical signs with evolution of 10 minutes to three days. Of the six puppies that died, two were sent for necropsy. On gross examination, both animals had discreet pericardial effusion, markedly distended heart, diffuse pallor in epicardial and myocardial surfaces and dilation of the left ventricular cavity. The lungs were observed multifocal reddish areas in the pleural surface and at cutting flowed foamed and slightly red liquid. The liver was diffusely increased in size, with lobular standard accentuation and pale areas interspersed with dark areas wich deepened in the parenchyma. Microscopically observed linfohistiocítica myocarditis, necrotizing, associated with interstitial fibrosis and basophilic intranuclear viral inclusions corpuscles in cardiomyocytes. In the lungs there were edema and interstitial pneumonia and in the liver was noted centrilobular to mediozonal degeneration and necrosis associated with congestion and hemorrhage. The diagnosis was confirmed by immunohistochemistry. The parvoviral myocarditis can occasionally occur in puppies of bitches that have not been effectively vaccinated. This clinical form of the disease characterized by cardiorespiratory changes and hyperacute or acute death of the affected animals.(AU)

Degenerative axonopathy associated with copper deficiency in pigs / Axonopatia degenerativa associada com deficiência de cobre em suínos

The epidemiological, clinic and morphological (pathological and ultrastructural) aspects of four outbreaks of copper deficiency affecting 21- to 90-day-old pigs in the Northeast region of Brazil are reported. Clinical signs began with paraparesis and ataxia and progressed to flaccid or spastic paralysis of the pelvic and thoracic limbs, followed by sternal and/or lateral recumbence. In addition, some animals showed dog-sitting position and intention tremors. The clinical manifestation period was 5-20 days. Significant gross lesions were not observed; however, microscopically, symmetrical degeneration of the white matter with ballooned myelin sheaths containing occasional macrophages was observed, mainly in the spinal cord. Two pigs presented with necrosis ad loss of Purkinje cells and ectopic Purkinje cells in the granular layer and cerebellar white matter. A ultrastructural analysis showed different degrees of damage of myelinated axons in the spinal segments, including an absence of the axoplasm structures with only axonal residues remaining. The myelin sheaths were degenerated and often collapsed into the space previously occupied by the axon. These results suggest that myelin degeneration is secondary to the axonal lesion. Finally, the concentration of copper in the liver was determined using atomic absorption spectrophotometry and was found to be low (ranging from 2.2 to 10.8 ppm). In conclusion, in the Brazilian semiarid region, Cu deficiency occurs in 21 to 90-day-old pigs that ingested different types of waste in their food.(AU)

São relatados os achados epidemiológicos, clínicos e morfológicos (patológicos e ultraestruturais) de quatro surtos de deficiência de cobre em suínos afetados entre 21 e 90 dias de idade na região Nordeste do Brasil. Os sinais clínicos iniciaram com paraparesia e ataxia, que progrediu a paralisia flácida ou espástica dos membros pélvicos e torácicos, seguido de decúbito esternal e/ou lateral. Além disso, alguns animais apresentaram posição de cão sentado e tremores de intenção. O período de manifestação clínica variou de 5-20 dias. Não foram observadas lesões macroscópicas significativas; no entanto, microscopicamente, foi observada degeneração simétrica da substância branca com fragmentação das bainhas de mielina, contendo ocasionais macrófagos, principalmente na medula espinal. Dois suínos apresentaram necrose e perda de células de Purkinje e células de Purkinje ectópicos na camada granular da substância branca cerebelar. A análise ultraestrutural mostrou diferentes graus de lesões em axônios mielinizados em segmentos da medula espinhal, incluindo o desaparecimento de estruturas do axoplasma, restando apenas restos axonais. A bainha de mielina encontrava-se degenerada e muitas vezes, colapsada dentro do espaço previamente ocupado pelo axônio. Esses resultados sugerem que a degeneração da mielina é secundária à lesão axonal. Finalmente, a concentração do cobre no fígado foi determinada usando espectrometria de absorção atômica e revelou baixos valores (variando de 2,2-10,8ppm). Conclui-se que na região semiárida do Brasil ocorre deficiência de cobre em suínos de 21 a 90 dias de idade alimentados com diferentes tipos de resíduos.(AU)

Achados microbiológicos, moleculares e histopatológicos em pequenos ruminantes experimentalmente infectados com Actinobacillus seminis / Microbiological, molecular and histopathological findings in small ruminants experimentally infected with Actinobacillus seminis

O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a patogenicidade, em ovinos, de uma cepa de Actinobacillus seminis isolada de caprino no Brasil. Foram utilizadas amostras de sêmen, punção e fragmentos de epidídimo, ducto deferente, testículos e glândulas seminíferas de dois caprinos (animais 1 e 2) e dois ovinos (animais 3 e 4), e foram realizados exame histopatológico, cultivo microbiológico e diagnóstico molecular. O inóculo foi preparado com solução salina na diluição de 10-2 correspondendo ao padrão 1,0 da escala de McFarland, com colônias previamente cultivadas de A. seminis e administrado no volume de 2 mL pelas vias intra-prepucial (animais 1 e 3) e na cauda do epidídimo (animais 2 e 4). Na avaliação clínica observou-se aumento unilateral de consistência firme após 30 dias no epidídimo e testículo do animal 4 que continuou até o dia da eutanásia, bem como o animal 1 apresentou discreto aumento unilateral dos testículos. As lesões macroscópicas e microscópicas observadas nos animais 3 e 4 foram compatíveis com aquelas causadas pela infecção por A. seminis. A. seminis foi isolado de material de punção e sêmen de um ovino (animal 4). Conclui-se que o modelo de infecção experimental utilizando caprinos e ovinos comprovou a patogenicidade da amostra de A. seminis, isolada de um caprino no semiárido brasileiro e reproduzida em um ovino, comprovando a predileção do agente pelo epidídimo, com quadro clinico, achados histopatológicos, isolamento bacteriano e diagnóstico molecular positivo.(AU)

The aim of this study was to evaluate, in sheep, the pathogenicity of an Actinobacillus seminis strain isolated from a goat in Brazil. Samples of semen, puncture and fragments of epididymis, deferent duct, testicles and seminal vesicles from two goats (animals 1 and 2) and two sheep (animals 3 and 4) were used, and histopathological, microbiological culture and molecular diagnoses were performed. The inoculum was prepared with saline solution at 10-2 dilution corresponding to 1.0 McFarland standard, with A. seminis colonies previously cultured and administered on 2mL volume by intra-preputial (animals 1 and 3) and epididymis tail (animals 2 and 4) routes. At clinical evaluation it were found unilateral swelling of firm consistency after 30 days in epididymis and testicle from animal 4 that continued until the day of euthanasia, as well as animal 1 shown discrete unilateral swelling of testicles. Gross and microscopic lesions in animals 3 and 4 were compatibles with that caused by A. seminis infection. A. seminis was isolated from material of puncture and semen of one sheep (animal 4). It is concluded that the experimental infection model using goats and sheep has proved the pathogenicity of the A. seminis strain isolated from a goat in the Brazilian semiarid and reproduced in a sheep, which confirm the prediletion of the agent for epididymis, with clinical signs, histopathological findings, bacterial isolation and positive molecular diagnosis.(AU)