Morphological and ultrastructural study of the palpebral conjunctiva of healthy domestic cats.

OBJECTIVE: To describe the morphology of the meibomian glands and goblet cells in the palpebral conjunctiva of healthy cats. ANIMALS STUDIED: Five healthy domestic cats without ocular changes that had died from causes unrelated to the study were evaluated. PROCEDURES: Forty samples were collected from upper and lower palpebral conjunctiva and 20 from palpebral fornix region in the nasal corner. The samples were processed for scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and histopathology. RESULTS: In the SEM analysis of the palpebral fornix, numerous points of mucous extrusion between the cell junctions were visualized, along with the presence of microvilli in the apical portions with small secretory vesicles. A homogeneous surface was highlighted, formed by the arrangement of cell contours in the form of hexagons. The grouping of goblet cells and their cytoplasmic vesicles filled with homogeneous content was visualized using TEM. Histopathology showed goblet cells interspersed with stratified epithelium accompanied by well-vascularized connective tissue. In the samples stained with hematoxylin and eosin, the meibomian glands, formed by acinar cells and with the presence of individual openings of the ducts in the eyelid margin, were easily visualized in the eyelid margins. CONCLUSIONS: This study describes the ultrastructural form of goblet cells and the morphology of the palpebral conjunctiva of healthy cats by the histopathology of the meibomian glands. This description can serve as a parameter of normality and aid in the detection of morphological alterations in these structures, as well as a parameter for comparison with other animal species.

Anatomy of the nasolacrimal duct in Persian cats determined by computed tomographic dacryocystography.

OBJECTIVE: This study sought to describe the anatomical characteristics of the nasolacrimal duct of Persian cats as observed by computed tomographic dacryocystography. ANIMAL STUDIED: Ten cats weighing 3-6 kg (three live cats and seven cadaveric specimens). PROCEDURES: The animals were submitted to bilateral computed tomographic dacryocystography, totaling 20 nasolacrimal ducts. Dorsal, sagittal, and transverse planes were studied. Two additional skulls were also dissected following latex injection into the nasolacrimal duct. The length and width of the nasolacrimal duct and lacrimal canaliculi, and the distance between the nasolacrimal duct and the root of the upper canine tooth at the point of closest proximity were measured. RESULTS: The nasolacrimal duct followed a convoluted course, particularly in the middle and rostral portions. Duct stenosis (width reduction equal to or >75%) and dilations (width increase equal to or >50%) were also detected, particularly in the rostral portion. Nasolacrimal duct length and width ranged from 1.3 to 1.5 cm and 1.5 to 2.3 mm, respectively. Mean lacrimal canaliculus length and width corresponded to 3.1 mm and 0.4 mm, respectively. Mean distance from the nasolacrimal duct to the canine tooth was 2.4 mm. The root of this tooth interfered with the course of the nasolacrimal duct. CONCLUSION: This study provided anatomical information for clinical assessment of the nasolacrimal drainage system in Persian cats.

The eye of the giant anteater (Myrmecophaga tridactyla): Ophthalmic examination findings and diagnostic tests.

OBJECTIVE: To describe ophthalmic examination and diagnostic values for Schirmer tear test (STT), intraocular pressure (IOP), corneal horizontal diameter (CHD), palpebral fissure length (PFL), fundoscopy, and palpebral conjunctiva microbiota from healthy giant anteaters. ANIMALS STUDIED: Twelve giant anteaters (Myrmecophaga tridactyla), 11 adults and one juvenile, five males and seven females. PROCEDURES: The animals were submitted to general anesthesia and ophthalmic evaluation with portable slit-lamp biomicroscope, Finoff transilluminator, and fundoscopy, as well as STT, bacterial culture from palpebral conjunctiva, rebound tonometry IOP, and measurement of PFL and CHD. Data compiled were analyzed with ANOVA and Tukey tests. RESULTS: The results (mean ± standard deviation) were as follows: STT 8.04 ± 6.21 mm/min; IOP 10.92 ± 2.45 mmHg; PFL 0.75 ± 0.11 cm; CHD 0.96 ± 0.10 cm. Out of the 24 eyes swab samples for bacterial culture, 17 were positive, with three genera of Gram-positive bacteria identified Staphylococcus spp., Bacillus sp., and Corynebacterium sp. Gram-negative bacteria were not isolated from any of the samples. CONCLUSIONS: As conservation work in this vulnerable species continues, this report on basic ophthalmic examination and diagnostic parameters will be helpful improve their treatment and care. More ophthalmic studies are encouraged in animals within the Pilosa order.

Ocular examination findings and measurements of tear production and tonometry of ring-tailed coatis (nasua nasua).

OBJECTIVE: To describe ocular anatomical features and to determine tear production and tonometry in normal anesthetized ring-tailed coati (Nasua nasua). ANIMALS: Eight male and seven female ring-tailed coatis (30 eyes) were evaluated, with ages ranging from 7 months to 10 years old. PROCEDURES: The animals were anesthetized with isoflurane and had STT 1, rebound and applanation tonometry, and palpebral fissure length (PFL) measured in both eyes. Rebound tonometry was measured with both TonoVet® and TonoVet Plus®. All eyes were evaluated with slit-lamp biomicroscopy. Following pharmacological mydriasis, direct fundoscopy was performed. ANOVA and Tukey tests were used for the data analysis. RESULTS: There were upper and lower eyelids, as well as a third eyelid. Eyelashes were present on the upper eyelid, while meibomian glands openings were visible on both. The bulbar conjunctiva was pigmented. The pupil was obliquely horizontally ovoid and teardrop shaped when miotic. The color of the iris and tapetum lucidum varied with age. The optic disk was round, and the retina was holangiotic. The mean ± standard deviation values obtained were as follows: STT: 2.50 ± 2.39 mm/min; rebound tonometry: 9.50 ± 2.43 mmHg (TonoVet®, calibration P), 14.60 ± 2.82 mmHg (TonoVet®, calibration D), 18.93 ± 3.99 mmHg (TonoVet Plus®, calibration dog); applanation tonometry: 18.66 ± 4.16 mmHg; PFL: 10.98 ± 1.67 mm. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Anatomical and clinical ophthalmic data presented in this study are unprecedented for this species. The results can be used as clinical reference parameters, allowing for better care of these species. The lack of data for the Procyonidae family must be regarded as an incentive for more studies.

Ophthalmic contributions to assessing eyes of two neotropical canids: Cerdocyon thous and Chrysocyon brachyurus.

OBJECTIVE: To describe selected ophthalmic tests and anatomical features of eyes of crab-eating foxes (Cerdocyon thous) and maned wolves (Chrysocyon brachyurus). ANIMALS STUDIED: Six crab-eating foxes (12 eyes), eight maned wolves (16 eyes). PROCEDURES: Intramuscular and/or inhalatory anesthesia, ophthalmic evaluation with portable slit-lamp biomicroscope, Schirmer tear test (STT), intraocular pressure measurement with rebound and applanation (crab-eating fox only) tonometers, measurement of palpebral fissure length (PFL), gonioscopy, and fundoscopy. Data were analyzed with ANOVA and Tukey's tests. RESULTS: Both species presented upper and lower eyelids, both with eyelashes and Meibomian glands openings. A third eyelid was also present. In partial miosis, pigmented projections were observed along the edge of the pupil. The draining angle was open, with thin pectinate ligaments. The retina was holangiotic. For crab-eating foxes, mean ± standard deviation values were as follows: STT: 4.33 ± 2.96 mm/min; PFL: 17.45 ± 1.55 mm; rebound tonometry: 10.70 ± 3.43 mm Hg (TonoVet® calibration D),5.66 ± 3.44 mm Hg (TonoVet® calibration P), 17.00 ± 4.64 mm Hg (TonoVet® Plus calibration dog); and applanation tonometry: 11.70 ± 5.70 mm Hg(TonoPen® XL). For maned wolves, the mean ± standard deviation values were as follows: STT: 9.31 ± 7.40 mm/min; PFL: 22.79 ± 1.63 mm; rebound tonometry: 11.00 ± 2.77 mm Hg (TonoVet® calibration D), 6.78 ± 2.58 mm Hg (TonoVet® calibration P), and 18.29 ± 3.47 mm Hg(TonoVet® Plus calibration dog). CONCLUSIONS: This study contributes with knowledge that can help the clinical assessment regarding eyes of crab-eating foxes and maned wolves. The data herein presented for rebound tonometry are new for both species.

Ultrastructural morphology of goblet cells of the conjunctiva of dogs.

OBJECTIVE: To describe the morphology of goblet cells of the eyelid conjunctiva in dogs using transmission and scanning electron microscopy. ANIMAL STUDIED: Ten dogs, both male and female of different breeds, with no ocular changes were examined (20 eyes). PROCEDURES: Ten samples of conjunctiva were collected and processed for scanning and transmission electron microscopy (SEM and TEM), while another 10 samples were stained with Schiff's periodic stain (SPA) and alcian blue, pH 2.5, and analyzed using light microscopy. RESULTS: Scanning electron microscopy revealed several points of mucus extrusion in the free apical portion of the goblet cells as well as a wide distribution of lymphoid follicles and macrophages intermingling with the microvilli of palpebral epithelium cells. TEM revealed normal goblet cells that were predominantly oval with wide cytoplasm of different diameters, and large vesicles with heterogeneous granules and free edges, suggesting the release of mucus content onto the conjunctival surface. Cytoplasmic organelles, such as the Golgi apparatus, endoplasmic reticulum, and a high number of mitochondria were also observed. All the samples were positive for SPA and alcian blue staining. CONCLUSION: This is the first study to evaluate the goblet cells of the eyelid conjunctiva in healthy dogs using electron microscopy techniques. These results are useful for comparing the palpebral conjunctiva of dogs without ocular changes to palpebral conjunctiva of dogs and other species with ocular changes.

Evaluation of tear production in juvenile opossum using three different methods / Avaliação da produção lacrimal em gambás filhotes por três diferentes métodos

The establishment of parameters for tear production in different species is important for better understanding eye´s health and is one of the components of the ophthalmic semiological technique. Particularities derived from the anatomophysiology of non-domestic species induce the search for more reliable methodologies. The aim was to evaluate and compare tear production of white-eared opossum (Didelphis albiventris) and Brazilian common opossum (Didelphis aurita) by three different methods. Fifteen individuals of each species, juveniles, healthy, of both sexes, with 60 to 90 days of life, were physically restrained. Phenol red thread test (PRTT), endodontic absorbent paper point tear test (EAPPTT) and modified -Schirmer tear test (mSTT) were performed. PRTT was the most difficult to perform because of the wire malleability, while EAPPTT was more feasible for both species. The median ± semi-quartile range for PRTT were 19.79±2.61mm/15 "and 5.22±2.92mm/15", for EAPPTT were 16.25±1.82mm/min and 10.9±3.04mm/min, and for STTm were 0±1.63mm/min and 0±1.63mm/min for white-eared opossum and Brazilian common opossum respectively. There was no difference between the right and left eye neither sex. A significant difference was obtained for the same test to different species. No significant correlation was found between the tests for both species. The description of tear production parameters for juvenile white-eared opossum and Brazilian common opossum may be used as a tool, which will allow the early diagnosis of ocular diseases.(AU)

O estabelecimento do parâmetro de produção lacrimal nas diferentes espécies é importante para o entendimento da saúde do olho e é um dos componentes da semiotécnica oftálmica. Particularidades derivadas da anatomofisiologia das espécies não domésticas induzem a busca de metodologias que sejam mais fidedignas aos parâmetros. Objetivou-se com este estudo avaliar e comparar a produção lacrimal de gambás-de-orelha-branca (Didelphis albiventris) e gambás-de-orelha-preta (Didelphis aurita) por três diferentes métodos. Quinze indivíduos de cada espécie, juvenis, hígidos, de ambos os sexos, com 60 a 90 dias de vida, foram contidos fisicamente para realização do teste lacrimal do vermelho de fenol (TLVF), da ponta de papel absorvente estéril e do teste lacrimal de Schirmer modificado (TLSm). O TLVF foi o mais difícil de ser executado devido à maleabilidade do fio, enquanto a TEPA se mostrou mais exequível para ambas as espécies. A mediana ± intervalo semi-interquartil para o TLVF foi de 19,79±2,61mm/15" e 5,22±2,92mm/15", para a TEPA foram de 16,25±1,82mm/min e 10,93±3,04mm/min, e para o TLSm foram de 0±1,63mm/min e 0±1,63mm/min, para gambás-de-orelha-branca e gambás-de-orelha-preta, respectivamente. Não houve diferença entre o olho direito e esquerdo e nem quanto ao sexo. Obteve-se diferença significativa para um mesmo teste entre as espécies. Não foi encontrada correlação significativa entre os testes para ambas as espécies. A quantificação da porção aquosa da lágrima poderá auxiliar no diagnóstico precoce de doenças oculares nas espécies estudadas.(AU)

Caracterização clínica e histopatológica de bulbos oculares de cães e gatos (2005-2015) / Clinical and histopathologic characterization of ocular bulbs in dogs and cats (2005-2015)

Objetivou-se realizar a caracterização clínica e histopatológica de bulbos oculares de cães e gatos, removidos cirurgicamente por indicação clínica, no período entre 2005-2015. Foram realizados 101 procedimentos de remoção do bulbo ocular, 93 enucleações (92%) e 8 exenterações (8%). Os procedimentos foram realizados em 80 cães, (79% dos casos) e em 21 gatos (21% dos casos). Os cães submetidos à intervenção cirúrgica apresentavam perfurações oculares (n=31, 39%), glaucoma (n=19, 24%), protrusão ocular (n=13, 16%), diagnósticos sugestivos de neoplasia (n=10, 12,5%) e outros (n=3, 2,97%). Dentre os gatos os diagnósticos clínicos compreenderam perfuração ocular (n=9, 49%), glaucoma (n=3, 14,2%), microftalmia (n=3, 14,2%), sugestivo de neoplasia (n=2, 9,5%), protrusão ocular (n=2, 9,5%) e outros (n=2, 9,5%). Vinte e sete amostras de bulbos oculares foram submetidas para avaliação histopatológica, sendo 23 provenientes de cães e quatro de gatos. Dentre as amostras de origem canina, sete exibiram achados histopatológicos compatíveis com glaucoma, sete perfurações oculares, seis neoplasias intraoculares, duas panoftalmites e um quadro de Phthisis bulbi. Nos bulbos oculares de gatos foram diagnosticadas duas neoplasias intraoculares, uma microftalmia e uma perfuração ocular. Constatou-se que o glaucoma secundário, as neoplasias e as perfurações oculares estão entre as principais causas de enucleação em cães, e associadas a alterações primárias como a ceratoconjuntivite seca e as uveítes. Estas afecções, diferentemente das neoplasias, podem ter êxito terapêutico mediante diagnóstico e tratamento precoces, prevenindo a cegueira e a remoção do bulbo ocular.(AU)

This study aimed to carry out the clinical and histopathologic characterization of ocular bulbs from dogs and cats, surgical removed as clinical indication between 2005-2015. Hundred-one procedures were performed, 93 enucleations (92%) and 8 exenterantions (8%). The procedures were performed on 80 dogs (79% of cases) and 21 cats (21% of cases). The dogs underwent to surgery had ocular perfuration (n=31, 39%), glaucoma (n=19, 24%), ocular protrusion (n=13, 16%), diagnosis suggestive of neoplasia (n=10, 12, 5%) and other (n=3, 2.97%). Among the clinical diagnosis cats comprise ocular perforation (n=9, 49%), glaucoma (n=3, 14.2%), microphthalmia (n=3, 14.2%), suggestive of neoplasia (n=2, 9.5%), ocular protrusion (n=2, 9.5%) and other (n=2, 9.5%). Twenty-seven samples of ocular bulbs were sent for histopathologic evaluation in Veterinary Pathology Laboratory, being 23 from dogs and four cats. Among the samples of dogs, seven exhibited histopathologic findings compatible with glaucoma, seven ocular perforations, six had intraocular neoplasias, two panoftalmites and condition of Phthisis bulbi. The ocular bulbs of cats received the diagnosis of two intraocular neoplasias, one microphthalmia and ocular perforation. It was found that the secondary glaucoma and ocular perforations are among the leading causes of enucleation in dogs, and associated with primary disorders such as keratoconjunctivitis sicca and uveitis. These disorders, unlike neoplasia, may have therapeutic success through early diagnosis and treatment, preventing blindness and removal of the eyeball.(AU)

Modified Schirmer tear test and rebound tonometry in blue-fronted Amazon parrot (Amazona aestiva) / Teste lacrimal de Schirmer modificado e tonometria de rebote em papagaio-verdadeiro (Amazona aestiva)

The aim of this study was to describe the modified Schirmer tear test (mSTT), intraocular pressure (IOP) by rebound tonometry and palpebral fissure length (PFL) in blue-fronted Amazon parrots (Amazona aestiva). Thirty-five healthy adult animals from a conservation breeding center in Brazil were used in this study. Modified Schirmer tear test, rebound tonometry and PFL measurements were performed in both eyes, with birds under physical restraint. Mean mSTT was 6.2±0.1mm/min and mean IOP was 6.4±0.1mmHg, while PFL was 10.1±0.1mm. A moderate correlation was seen between mSTT and PFL for OD (ρ=0.14) and OS (ρ=0.20). The results provide ophthalmic tests reference values for A. aestiva.(AU)

O objetivo deste estudo foi descrever o teste lacrimal de Schirmer modificado (TLSm), a pressão intraocular (PIO) pela tonometria de rebote e o comprimento da fissura palpebral (FP) do papagaio-verdadeiro (Amazona aestiva). Foram avaliados 35 papagaios adultos e saudáveis, provenientes de um Criadouro Conservacionista do Brasil. Após avaliação clínica e laboratorial, as aves foram fisicamente contidas para aferição, em ambos os olhos, do TLSm, da PIO pela tonometria de rebote e do comprimento da FP utilizando-se um paquímetro digital. Valor médio do TLSm foi 6.2±0.1mm/min e da PIO foi 6.4±0.1 mmHg, enquanto a aferição da FP foi 10.1±0.1mm. Uma correlação moderada foi observada entre TLSm e a FP para olho direito (OD) (ρ=0.14) e olho esquerdo (OE) (ρ=0.20). Os resultados podem servir como valores de referência para testes oftálmicos para A. aestiva.(AU)

Reference values for selected ophthalmic tests of the blue-and-yellow macaw (Ara ararauna) / Valores de referência para selecionados testes oftálmicos para a arara canindé (Ara araruna)

The aim of this study was to establish reference values for selected ophthalmic diagnostic tests in healthy blue-and-yellow macaws. We investigated a total of 35 adult macaws (70 eyes) of undetermined sex and with an average weight of 1 kg, who were living in captivity in the Federal District, Brazil. Tear production using the Schirmer tear test (STT), normal conjunctival flora, intraocular pressure (IOP) using a rebound tonometer and horizontal palpebral fissure length (HPFL) were evaluated. In this study, 84.1% of samples were positive for microbial growth. Bacteria, fungi and yeasts were isolated, and Staphylococcus spp. (21.9%) and Bacillus spp. (26.8%) were the most frequently isolated microorganisms. The mean value for STT was 7.6±4.6mm/min in the right eye (OD) and 6.6±4.4mm/min in the left eye (OS) (median = 7,11±0,76mm/min). Mean IOP was 11.4±2.5mm Hg OD and 11.6±1.8mm Hg OS (median = 11.49±0.22mm Hg), prior to anesthesia, and 7.6±2.4mm Hg OD and 7.8±1.8mm Hg OS (median 7.71±0.08mmHg) after anesthesia. The IOP was significantly lower when the animals were under anesthesia as compared to when they were conscious (p≤0.05). Horizontal palpebral fissure length was 11.7±0.1mm OD and 11.8±0.1mm OS (median = 11.72±0.07mm). The STT showed a positive correlation with palpebral fissure measurement for this species. These selected ophthalmic reference values will be particularly useful in diagnosing pathological changes in the eyes of blue-and-yellow macaws.(AU)

Objetivou-se determinar os valores normais para testes oftálmicos diagnósticos selecionados para a Arara Canindé. Trinta e cinco Ara ararauna (70 olhos), de sexo indeterminado, adultas, com peso médio de 1kg e provenientes de cativeiro no Distrito Federal, foram avaliadas. Aferiram-se a produção lacrimal pelo Teste lacrimal de Schirmer (TLS), a avaliação microbiológica da conjuntiva ocular, a pressão intra-ocular (PIO) utilizando a tonometria de rebote e o comprimento horizontal da rima palpebral Neste estudo 84.1% das amostras analisadas foram positivas para crescimento microbiológico. Bactérias, fungos e hifas foram isolados e Staphylococcus spp. (21.9%) e Bacillus spp. (26.8%) foram isolados mais frequentemente. Os valores médios do teste de Lacrimal de Schirmer (TLS) foram de 7.6±4.6 e 6.6±4.4mm/min para olhos direito (OD) e esquerdo (OE), respectivamente (média = 7,11±0,76mm/min). A pressão intraocular média foi de 11.4±2.5 (OD) e 11.6±1.8mmHg (OE) anteriormente à anestesia (média 11,49±0,22 mmHg) e 7.6 ± 2.4 mmHg (OD) e 7.8 ± 1.8 mm Hg (OE) (média 7,71±0,08mm Hg) após a anestesia, verificando-se que a PIO foi significativamente menor quando os animais se encontravam sob anestesia comparativamente ao momento em que não estavam anestesiados. O comprimento horizontal da rima horizontal palpebral foi de 11.7±0.1mm OD e de 11.8±0.1mm OE (média 11,72±0,07mm). Verificou-se correlação positiva do TLS com o comprimento da fissura palpebral para a espécie estudada. Estes valores de referencia serão úteis no diagnóstico de alterações oculares da Arara Canindé.(AU)

Survival analysis of female dogs with mammary tumors after mastectomy: epidemiological, clinical and morphological aspects / Análise de sobrevivência de cadela com tumores mamários após mastectomia: aspectos epidemiológicos, clínicos e morfológicos

Mammary gland tumors are the most common type of tumors in bitches but research on survival time after diagnosis is scarce. The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between survival time after mastectomy and a number of clinical and morphological variables. Data was collected retrospectively on bitches with mammary tumors seen at the Small Animal Surgery Clinic Service at the University of Brasília. All subjects had undergone mastectomy. Survival analysis was conducted using Cox's proportional hazard method. Of the 139 subjects analyzed, 68 died and 71 survived until the end of the study (64 months). Mean age was 11.76 years (SD=2.71), 53.84% were small dogs. 76.92% of the tumors were malignant, and 65.73% had both thoracic and inguinal glands affected. Survival time in months was associated with age (hazard rate ratios [HRR] =1.23, p-value =1.4x10-4), animal size (HRR between giant and small animals =2.61, p-value =0.02), nodule size (HRR =1.09, p-value =0.03), histological type (HRR between solid carcinoma and carcinoma in a mixed tumor =2.40, p-value =0.02), time between diagnosis and surgery (TDS, with HRR =1.21, p-value =2.7x10-15), and the interaction TDS*follow-up time (HRR =0.98, p-value =1.6x10-11). The present study is one of the few on the subject matter. Several important covariates were evaluated and age, animal size, nodule size, histological type, TDS and TDS*follow up time were identified as significantly associated to survival time.

Os tumores da glândula mamária são o tipo mais comum de tumores em cadelas, porém, estudos sobre o tempo de sobrevida após o diagnóstico são escassos. Objetivou-se investigar a relação entre o tempo de sobrevida após a mastectomia, bem como variáveis clínicas e populacionais. Coletaram-se dados retrospectivos referentes a cadelas com tumores mamários atendidos no Serviço de Clínica Cirúrgica de Pequenos Animais da Universidade de Brasília e submetidas à mastectomia. A análise de sobrevida foi realizada mediante o método de Cox de risco proporcional. Dos 139 animais incluídos neste estudo, 68 morreram e 71 sobreviveram até ao final da conclusão deste traballho (64 meses). A média de idade foi de 11,76 anos (DP=2,71), 53,84% dos cães eram pequenos. Dentre os tumores, 76,92% eram malignos, e 65,73% tiveram as duas glândulas torácicas e a inguinal afetadas. O tempo de sobrevida em meses foi associado à idade (taxa de razão de risco [HRR] =1,23, p valor =1.4x10-4), o tamanho do animal (HRR entre animais gigantes e pequenos = 2,61, p=0,02), tamanho do nódulo (HRR=1,09, p valor =0,03), tipo histológico (HRR entre carcinoma sólido e carcinomas em tumor misto =2,40, p=0,02), tempo decorrido entre o diagnóstico e a cirurgia (TDC, com HRR =1,21, p valor =2,7 x10-15), e a interação TDC*tempo de seguimento (HRR = 0,98, p valor = 1.6x10-11). O presente estudo é um dos poucos sobre o assunto. Várias covariáveis importantes foram avaliadas e idade, tamanho do animal, o tamanho do nódulo, tipo histológico, TDC e TDC*tempo de seguimento foram identificados como significativamente associado ao tempo de sobrevida.

Tear ferning test in horses and its correlation with ocular surface evaluation.

OBJECTIVE: To describe the tear ferning test (TFT) in healthy horses and its correlation with other parameters for evaluating the ocular surface. ANIMALS STUDIED: Thirty male and female adult healthy horses (60 eyes), of no defined breed. PROCEDURES: Tear sample was collected with a microcapillary tube, placed on the surface of a glass slide, and allowed to dry at room temperature. The crystallization pattern was classified according to Rolando (Chibret International Journal Ophthamology, 1984; 2, 32). The program STEPanizer(©) stereology tool, version 1.0, was utilized for counting points on the digitally captured crystallization image. A conjunctival biopsy was performed. RESULTS: Tear ferning test was classified as Type I in 18 eyes (30%), Type II in 31 eyes (51.7%), and Type III in 11 eyes (18.3%), at a mean temperature of 27.3 ± 1.5 °C and relative humidity of 61.5 ± 5.7%. In the Type I crystallization, the count varied between 27 and 36 points (mean: 33.27 ± 2.40), in Type II between 22 and 31 points (25.42 ± 1.95), and in Type III between 13 and 25 points (16.82 ± 3.76). There was no statistical difference or correlation between the right and left eyes, nor was there a statistically significant influence (P < 0.05) on TFT by the factors evaluated. The mean goblet cells values were 50 ± 11.4 cells/field. All samples showed the presence of lymphocytes, plasmocytes, and eosinophils. CONCLUSION: Tear ferning test is easy to perform, without risks to the patient. Once standardized for horses, associated or not with the program STEPanizer(©) stereology tool, it is an additional method for evaluating the ocular surface.

Proteomic analysis of equine amniotic membrane: characterization of proteins.

INTRODUCTION: Human amniotic membrane (AM) has been used as a biomaterial for surgical wound skin and ocular surface reconstruction for several years. Currently, equine AM has been used for corneal reconstruction in several animal species, and appears to have the same properties as human AM. Despite the observed positive healing abilities of this tissue in horses with ulcerative keratitis the proteins of equine AM have not been described. OBJECTIVE: To identify proteins known to be associated with corneal healing from frozen equine AM. PROCEDURES: Placentas were acquired from healthy live foal births from a local Thoroughbred breeding farm. The amnion was removed from the chorion by blunt dissection, washed with phosphate-buffered saline (PBS), and treated with 0.05% trypsin and 0.02% ethylene diaminetetraacetic acid in PBS. Amnion was attached to nitrocellulose paper (epithelial side up), and cut into 4 × 4 cm pieces. The sheets were frozen at -80 °C. The protein samples were solubilized, and analyzed by 2D gel electrophoresis and shotgun proteomics. RESULTS: A reference identification map of the equine AM proteins was produced and 149 different proteins were identified. From gel-based proteomics, 49 spots were excised and 43 proteins identified by liquid chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). Shotgun proteomics identified 116 proteins with an overlap of 10 proteins in both analyses. CONCLUSIONS: We have described a reference map for equine AM proteins that may provide a background to explain the positive results found in horses with ulcerative keratopathies using this biomaterial.

Análise de sobrevida e fatores prognósticos de cães com mastocitoma cutâneo / Survival analyses and prognostic markers in canine cutaneous mast cell tumors

O mastocitoma é a neoplasia cutânea maligna de maior frequência em cães. Apesar do estudo e do desenvolvimento de diversos marcadores prognósticos na tentativa de prever o comportamento biológico deste tipo de neoplasia, a graduação histológica continua sendo utilizada como principal delineador prognóstico para os animais acometidos, mesmo não conseguindo prever o comportamento de mastocitomas de diferenciação intermediária. Diferentes marcadores de proliferação e atividade celular vêm sendo testados com resultados promissores, entretanto, em sua maioria, demandam técnicas específicas de coloração e imuno-histoquímica que, ainda hoje, são de alto custo e muitas vezes não estão facilmente disponíveis. O índice mitótico é um método indireto de mensuração da atividade proliferativa celular, que pode ser contabilizado em uma lâmina comum de avaliação histológica e estudos vêm determinando-o como importante marcador prognóstico para o mastocitoma canino. Dada a recente publicação sugerindo nova graduação em dois graus (alto e baixo) e indisponibilidade das técnicas específicas utilizadas na determinação de outros fatores prognósticos, objetivou-se avaliar o poder prognóstico das diferentes classificações, associando-as à sobrevida destes animais e comparando com o índice mitótico. Apesar de isoladamente ambas as classificações histológicas apresentarem associação com a sobrevida (P<.001) dos animais acometidos, na análise multifatorial nenhuma foi significativamente associada com a sobrevida (P>0,05)...

Mast cell tumor (MCT) is the most common malignant cutaneous neoplasm in dogs. Even with several prognostic markers being studied, in attempt to previse the biological behavior of these tumors, the histological grading is still commonly used to predict behavior, however, it is not significant to predict intermediately differentiated MCT behavior. Different prognostic and cell proliferation markers are being tested with promising results however, the majority of then requires specific staining and immunohistochemical techniques that even nowadays are expensive and not suitable for all veterinarians. Mitotic index is an indirect measure of cell proliferation and it can be established in a common histological microscope slide, and studies indicate it as an important prognostic marker for MCT in dogs. Given the recent publication of the novel two-tier histologic grading system, this study objective to evaluate the prognostic value of the different grading systems associating with survival and compare it with the mitotic index. Even though both grading systems associate with survival in the univariable analyses (P<.001), at the multivariable analyses neither was associated with survival (P>0,05)...

Serologic survey of infectious diseases in populations of maned wolf (Chrysocyon brachyurus) and crab-eating fox (Cerdocyon thous) from Aguas Emendadas Ecological Station, Brazil.

Domestic dogs are reservoirs for many infectious diseases and may represent a potential source of infection for wild canid populations. A serologic investigation of antibodies to Toxoplasma gondii, Neospora caninum, Brucella abortus, and Leptospira spp. was conducted on three maned wolves (Chrysocyon brachyurus) and seven crab-eating foxes (Cerdocyon thous), all free-living, at the Aguas Emendadas Ecological Station (ESECAE), Federal District, Brazil, between February and October 2006. Out of the 10 samples analyzed, eight (80%) were seropositive for T. gondii: 3/3 (100%) of the maned wolves and 5/7 (71.4%) of the crab-eating foxes. None of the animals presented anti-N. caninum, B. abortus, and Leptospira spp. antibodies. This study demonstrated that the wild canid populations at ESECAE presented high exposure to T. gondii and indicated that there is high environmental contamination at the Station, which can be attributed to its proximity to urban zones, the presence of domestic cats in the study area, or the existence of other wild infected felines.

Comparison of two methods of tear sampling for protein quantification by Bradford method / Comparação de dois métodos de coleta de lágrima para quantificação proteica pelo método de Bradford

The aim of this study was to compare two methods of tear sampling for protein quantification. Tear samples were collected from 29 healthy dogs (58 eyes) using Schirmer tear test (STT) strip and microcapillary tubes. The samples were frozen at -80ºC and analyzed by the Bradford method. Results were analyzed by Student's t test. The average protein concentration and standard deviation from tears collected with microcapillary tube were 4.45mg/mL ±0.35 and 4,52mg/mL ±0.29 for right and left eyes respectively. The average protein concentration and standard deviation from tears collected with Schirmer Tear Test (STT) strip were and 54.5mg/mL ±0.63 and 54.15mg/mL ±0.65 to right and left eyes respectively. Statistically significant differences (p<0.001) were found between the methods. In the conditions in which this study was conducted, the average protein concentration obtained with the Bradford test from tear samples obtained by Schirmer Tear Test (STT) strip showed values higher than those obtained with microcapillary tube. It is important that concentration of tear protein pattern values should be analyzed according the method used to collect tear samples.

Compararam-se dois métodos de coleta de lágrima para quantificação proteica, utilizando-se 58 olhos de 29 cães hígidos. As amostras foram coletadas utilizando-se fitas de teste da lágrima de Schirmer (Schirmer tear test - STT) e tubos microcapilares. Após obtidas, as amostras foram congeladas a -80º C e posteriormente analisadas pelo método de Bradford. Os resultados foram analisados pelo teste T de Student. A média da concentração proteica e desvio padrão das amostras obtidas com microcapilar foi de 4,45mg/mL ±0,35 e 4,52mg/mL ±0,29 para olhos direito e esquerdo, respectivamente. Para as amostras obtidas com STT os resultados foram 4,45mg/mL ±0,35 and 4,52mg/mL ±0,29 para olhos direito e esquerdo, respectivamente. Diferenças estatisticamente significativas (p<0,001) foram encontradas entre os dois métodos. Nas condições em que o trabalho foi conduzido, a média da concentração proteica pelo método de Bradford das amostras obtidas através das tiras do STT foi superior à obtida com o tubo microcapilar. Os valores padrão da concentração protéica da lágrima obtida pelo método de Bradford devem ser analisados considerando-se o método de coleta da lágrima, uma vez que este interfere significativamente nos resultados obtidos.

Tear production in canine neonates--evaluation using a modified Schirmer tear test.

PURPOSE: The ability of human newborns to produce tears has been a subject of controversy in the literature since the mid-20th century, and there has been considerable debate as to whether they are able to produce tears. Recently, it was established that total tear secretion (reflex + basal) in full-term infants is similar to those of adults whereas both reflex and basal tear production is reduced in premature babies. The objectives of this study were to assess whether newborn dogs have measurable aqueous tear production at the fourth week of life and to evaluate a modified Schirmer tear test (mSTT) as a useful method for measuring neonatal tear production in dogs. METHODS: Thirty four-week-old healthy puppies from six litters were evaluated. A control group was composed of 10 normal adult dogs. The mSTT strips were obtained by cutting a 5 mm-wide strip in half (making two 2.5 mm-wide strips). The mSTT1 was performed in puppies and adult dogs. Values were compared using t-tests. RESULTS: In neonates, the average value for the mSTT1 was 13.6 ± 3.07 (range = 7-19 mm/min), which was significantly lower in neonates than in adult dogs (23.25 ± 3.5, range = 17-30 mm/min, P < 0.0001). CONCLUSIONS: Canine neonates do produce tears by the fourth week of life, which can be successfully measured with the mSTT. This report established for the first time that canine neonates have significantly reduced total (reflex + basal) tear secretion compared to adults.

Aluminum-chloride-phthalocyanine encapsulated in liposomes: activity against naturally occurring dog breast cancer cells.

Breast tumors represent the most common malignant tumors. Current treatments for humans and pets rely on tumor excision and adjuvant chemotherapy, which may affect both cancer cells and normal cells. Photodynamic therapy (PDT) is an approved treatment modality for a variety of cancers and was recently recommended as a first-line treatment for non-melanoma skin cancers for humans. The main purpose of the present study was to determine the efficacy of PDT using aluminum-chloride-phthalocyanine that is encapsulated in liposomes and LED as a light source to kill naturally occurring female dog breast cancer in vitro. The cytotoxicity behavior of the encapsulated photosensitizer in the dark and under irradiation using the 670 nm laser were investigated using classical trypan blue and MTT cell viability tests, acridine orange and ethidium bromide staining to label organelles, and cell morphology. Cell morphology was evaluated using light and electron microscopy. Our results demonstrate a reduced cell viability that is associated with morphologic alterations. The neoplasic cell destruction was predominantly mediated via a necrotic process, which was assayed using acridine orange and ethidium bromide staining. These findings were confirmed using light and electronic microscopy. The photosensitizer or laser irradiation alone did not induce cytotoxicity or morphological alterations, indicating the safety and efficacy of PDT with chloro-aluminum-phthalocyanine that was encapsulated in liposomes for the treatment of breast cancer cells in vitro.

Optimal management of equine keratomycosis.

Keratomycosis in the horse exists in several unique clinical forms. This paper discusses the diagnosis and clinical management of keratomycosis in the horse associated with tear film instability, epithelial keratopathy, subepithelial infiltrates, superficial and deep ulcers, plaques, melting ulcers, descemetoceles, iris prolapse, and stromal abscesses. Prompt diagnosis and aggressive treatment of equine keratomycosis can make a major difference in the maintenance of a cosmetic and visual eye.

Brachial plexus blockade in chickens with 0.75% ropivacaine.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the quality of brachial plexus blockade with 0.75% ropivacaine in domestic chickens. STUDY DESIGN: Prospective experimental trial. ANIMALS: Six 30-week-old female chickens, weighing 4.5 +/- 0.4 kg. METHODS: Six brachial plexus injections were performed after anesthetic induction with isoflurane. After achieving adequate muscle relaxation, the animals were positioned in dorsal recumbency and injected with ropivacaine (1 mL kg(-1)). The birds recovered and assessments of motor function and response to pinch were scored every 5 minutes for 180 minutes. The scores were from zero (no response) to three (greatest response). The scores over time were analyzed using a Wilcoxon nonparametric test with statistical significance accepted if p 0.05). CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: No complications were observed after the technique. Brachial plexus blockade with 0.75% ropivacaine is a simple and effective technique for procedures on the thoracic limb of domestic chickens.