Freeze-dried Platelet-rich Plasma and Stem Cell-conditioned Medium for Therapeutic Use in Horses.

This study investigated platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and adipose stem cell-conditioned medium (ASC-CM) use as a strategy to accelerate tissue healing. Platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) were quantified in fresh and freeze-dried PRP and ASC-CM, and a stability test was performed in the freeze-dried samples (90 and 180 days of storage). A cell proliferation test was performed using equine mesenchymal stem cell culture in reconstituted PRP gel mesh after freeze-drying. In vivo PRP, ASC-CM applications, or their association were performed in induced wounds at 15 and 9-day intervals, according to the treatments: saline solution (control), PRP, ASC-CM, or ASC-CM + PRP. Horses were monitored through photographs and wound area measurements on days 5, 7, 15, and 24 after lesion induction. Skin biopsies were obtained on days 15 and 24 of the experiment. PDGF and VEGF quantification did not differ between fresh or freeze-dried treatments, was similar after freeze-drying or 90 days of storage, but showed a significant reduction after 180 days of storage. Comparing all treatments, no differences were observed in the histopathological analyses. For inflammation, fibroplasia, and collagen formation, only the time effect between the first and second biopsies was significant. The cell proliferation test revealed intense multiplication in the PRP gel mesh. Healing time was similar among all treatments. In conclusion, our results showed the possibility to produce and maintain freeze-dried PRP and ASC-CM for 90 days. Further studies are needed to better explore the in vivo therapeutic PRP and ASC-CM effects.

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.

Nitrate and nitrite poisoning in sheep and goats caused by ingestion of Portulaca oleracea / Intoxicação por nitratos e nitritos em ovinos e caprinos causada pela ingestão de Portulaca oleracea

Three outbreaks of poisoning by Portulaca oleracea were reported in sheep and goats in Northeast Brazil. In the first outbreak, 8 out of 20 sheep were affected and later died. In the second outbreak, three goats and one sheep died out of a flock of 30 animals that included both species. In the third outbreak, two out of 19 sheep were affected, and they recovered after a treatment of 2% methylene blue at a dose of 4 mg/kg body weight. In the first and second outbreaks, the animals ingested P. oleracea after it was cut and offered in feeders. In the third outbreak, the flock was grazing in an area that had been invaded by the plant. To determine the toxicity, P. oleracea was administered experimentally at a dose of 80g/kg of body weight to seven sheep, weighing 19-30 kg. One control sheep received green grass. One to four hours after P. oleracea ingestion, the animals showed clinical signs of poisoning characterized by cyanotic mucous membranes, bloat, ruminal pH of 8-9, pollakiuria, aerophagia, involuntary movements of the upper lip, apathy, tachypnea and tachycardia. Five animals recovered, including one that was treated with 1% methylene blue, and two animals died. During necropsy, the mucous membranes were brownish, and the blood was dark brown. Diphenylamine tests of the plant and of rumen contents were positive for nitrates. Positive results for nitrates were also found in 24 samples of P. oleracea that were collected in different places in the states of Pernambuco and Paraíba. We conclude that P. oleracea accumulates nitrates at toxic levels and may cause poisoning in sheep and goats.(AU)

Relatam-se três surtos de intoxicação por Portulaca oleracea em ovinos e caprinos no Nordeste do Brasil. No primeiro surto morreram oito de 20 ovinos. No segundo morreram três caprinos e um ovino de um total de 30 animais das duas espécies. No terceiro surto foram afetadas duas ovelhas de um rebanho de 19 animais, que se recuperaram após o tratamento com azul de metileno a 2% na dose de 4 mg/kg/vivo. Nos surtos 1 e 2 os animais ingeriram P. oleracea cortada e oferecida no coxo e no surto 3 estavam pastoreando em uma área invadida pela planta. Para determinar a toxicidade de P. oleracea foram utilizados oitos ovinos, sendo sete experimentais e um controle, com peso entre 19 e 30 kg. A planta foi administrada por via oral, na dose de 80 g/kg/peso corporal. O animal controle recebeu capim verde e concentrado. Entre uma a quatro horas após a ingestão da planta os animais apresentaram sinais clínicos caracterizados por mucosas cianóticas, timpanismo gasoso, pH ruminal de 8-9, polaquiúria, aerofagia, movimentos involuntários do lábio superior, apatia, taquipnéia e taquicardia. Cinco animais se recuperaram, incluindo um que foi tratado com azul de metileno a 2%, e dois morreram. Na necropsia observaram-se mucosas de coloração marrom e sangue marrom escuro. O teste de difenilamina realizado na planta e no conteúdo ruminal foi positivo para nitratos. Resultados positivos para nitratos foram detectados em 24 amostras coletadas em diferentes locais dos estados de Pernambuco e Paraíba. Conclui-se que P. oleracea acumula nitratos em níveis tóxicos, e quando ingerida por ovinos e caprinos pode provocar intoxicação e morte.(AU)

Poisoning by Senna obtusifolia in sheep / Intoxicação por Senna obtusifolia em ovinos

In a paddock highly invaded by Senna obtusifolia 10 out of 60 sheep showed muscle weakness and 9 died after a clinical manifestation period of 24-76 hours. Serum activities of creatine kinase were increased in all sheep examined. Multifocal polyphasic muscle segmental degeneration and necrosis was observed in skeletal muscles. Although the plant is a common weed in northeastern Brazil, the poisoning is rare, probably because the animals do not ingest it or due to toxicity variations.(AU)

Em um piquete altamente invadido por Senna obtusifolia, 10 de 60 ovelhas mostraram fraqueza muscular e 9 morreram após um período de manifestação clínica de 24-76 horas. As atividades séricas da creatina quinase foram aumentadas em todos os ovinos examinados. Foi observada degeneração segmentar e necrose polifásica muscular em músculos esqueléticos. Embora a planta seja uma erva daninha comum no Nordeste do Brasil, o envenenamento é raro, provavelmente porque os animais não o ingerem ou devido a variações de toxicidade.(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)

Embryonic death and abortion in goats caused by ingestion of Amorimia septentrionalis / Mortalidade embrionária e abortos em cabras causados pela ingestão de Amorimia septentrionalis

Amorimia spp. are sodium monofluoroacetate (MFA) containing plants causing sudden death in ruminants. In a previous study, Amorimia rigida caused abortion in one of the five pregnant sheep that received the plant suggesting that it may cause reproductive losses. This work aimed to study the embryotoxic and fetotoxic effects of Amorimia septentrionalis in goats in the Brazilian northeastern semi-arid region. The effects of A. septentrionalis on pregnancy were studied in 16 goats, divided into four groups according to their gestational period. In Groups 1, 2 and 3 the administration of A. septentrionalis at the daily dose of 5g of leaves per kg body weight was started on the 18th, 36th and 93th days of gestation, respectively. Goats from Group 4 did not ingest the plant. When the goats presented severe signs of poisoning the administration of the plant was suspended. Groups 1, 2 and 3 ingested the plant for 7.25±2.87, 9.25±2.21 and 12.50±0.57 days, respectively. All the goats recovered 7-12 days after the end of the administration of the plant. In Group 1, all the goats had embryonic death 6.25±3.59 days after the end of the ingestion of the plant. In Group 2, three goats aborted at 53, 54 and 78 days of gestation. Two goats from Group 3 gave birth normally and the other two aborted at 114 and 111 days of gestation. It is concluded that Amorimia septentrionalis is a sodium monofluoracetate-containing plant that causes embryonic deaths and abortions in goats that ingest non-lethal doses of the plant.(AU)

Amorimia spp. são plantas que contém monofluoroacetato de sódio (MFA), responsáveis por causar morte súbita em ruminantes. Em estudo prévio, Amorimia rigida causou aborto em uma de cinco ovelhas prenhas que receberam a planta, sugerindo que pode causar perdas reprodutivas. Este trabalho teve como objetivo estudar os efeitos embriotóxicos e fetotóxicos de Amorimia septentrionalis em caprinos na região semi-árida nordestina brasileira. Os efeitos de A. septentrionalis na prenhez foram estudados em 16 cabras, divididos em quatro grupos de acordo com seu período gestacional. Nos grupos 1, 2 e 3 a administração de A. septentrionalis foi diária, na dose de 5g de folhas por kg de peso corporal, iniciada nos dias 18, 36 e 93 da gestação, respectivamente. As cabras do grupo 4 não ingeriram a planta. Quando as cabras apresentavam sinais severos de intoxicação suspendia-se a administração da planta. Os grupos 1, 2 e 3 ingeriram a planta por 7,25±2,87, 9,25±2,21 e 12,50±0,57 dias, respectivamente. Todas as cabras se recuperaram 7-12 dias após o final da administração da planta. No grupo 1, todas as cabras apresentaram quadros de mortalidade embrionária 6,25±3,59 dias após o término da ingestão da planta. No grupo 2, três cabras abortaram aos 53, 54 e 78 dias de gestação. Duas cabras do Grupo 3 deram à luz normalmente e as outras duas abortaram aos 114 e 111 dias de gestação. Conclui-se que Amorimia septentrionalis é uma planta que contém monofluoroacetato de sódio e pode ocasionar mortes embrionárias e abortos em cabras que ingerem doses não letais da planta.(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)

Pythiosis in dogs in the semiarid region of Northeast Brazil / Pitiose em cães na região semiárida do Nordeste, Brasil

We describe the epidemiological, clinical and pathological features of five cases of pythiosis in dogs in northeast semiarid. The disease occurred in dogs with age between one and three years, females and males of different breeds. The dogs were created in urban areas, but were occasionally taken to the countryside and then had contact with wetlands. The main clinical signs were weight loss, vomiting, diarrhea and tenesmus. Macroscopically there were intestinal wall thickening with irregular firm masses with yellowish granular areas interspersed with a whitish tissue, involving the duodenum, colon and rectum, extending to the lymph nodes and pancreas, and the vagina and liver. In the skin there were areas of alopecia and irregular ulcerations, some containing small cavitations with serosanguineous secretion. Microscopically there were pyogranulomatous inflammation and in one case also there were eosinophilic necrosis associated with negative images tubuliformes by hematoxylin and eosin, strongly stained by GMS and weakly by PAS. Hyphae were strongly marked by immunohistochemistry with polyclonal anti-Pythium insidiosum. The disease occurs sporadically in dogs in the semiarid Northeast, however should be included in the differential diagnosis of chronic diseases and proliferative aspect of the gastrointestinal system, and front skin lesions of difficult treatment.(AU)

Descrevem-se os aspectos epidemiológicos, clínicos e patológicos de cinco casos de pitiose em cães na região semiárida do Nordeste. A doença ocorreu em cães com idade entre um e três anos, fêmeas e machos, de diferentes raças. Os cães eram criados em zona urbana, mas ocasionalmente eram levados para zona rural e tinham contato com áreas alagadas. Em um caso não havia informações no histórico sobre acesso à zona rural. Os principais sinais clínicos observados foram perda de peso, vômito, diarreia e tenesmo. Macroscopicamente havia espessamento da parede do intestino com massas firmes, irregulares, com áreas granulares amareladas entremeadas por tecido esbranquiçado, no duodeno, cólon e reto, que se estendia ao pâncreas e linfonodos, além de fígado e vagina. Na pele havia área de alopecia e ulcerações irregulares, algumas contendo pequenas cavitações com secreção serosanguinolenta. Microscopicamente havia inflamação piogranulomatosa e em um caso também havia necrose eosinofílica associada a imagens negativas tubuliformes pela hematoxilina e eosina, fortemente impregnadas pelo GMS e fracamente coradas pelo PAS. As hifas foram fortemente imunomarcadas pela imuno-histoquímica com anticorpo policlonal anti-Pythium insidiosum. A doença ocorre esporadicamente em cães no semiárido nordestino, entretanto deve ser incluída no diagnostico diferencial das doenças em cães com evolução crônica e proliferativa que acometem o sistema gastrintestinal, e frente a lesões cutâneas de difícil tratamento.(AU)

Alterações patológicas do sistema genital de cutias (Dasyprocta aguti Linnaeus, 1758) fêmeas criadas em cativeiro / Pathological changes of the genital system of agoutis (Dasyprocta aguti Linnaeus, 1758) females bred in captivity

Este artigo apresenta relatos de sete distintas patologias de origem reprodutiva ainda não descritas em cutias (Dasyprocta aguti Linnaeus, 1758) fêmeas, que afetaram a fertilidade ou resultaram na morte do animal. Descreveu-se a natureza, a localização e a frequência das alterações patológicas macroscópicas e histológicas dos órgãos que compõem o sistema reprodutivo de cutias fêmeas, criadas sob condições de cativeiro no semiárido do Brasil. Foram avaliados através do exame anatomopatológico o aparelho reprodutivo de trinta e nove cutias mortas naturalmente e encaminhadas ao Laboratório de Patologia Veterinária, no período de fevereiro de 2010 a maio de 2015. Destas, constatou-se alterações patológicas no sistema reprodutivo de 10 (25,6 %). No total, 13 alterações foram observadas, sendo que, em alguns animais haviam a coexistência de mais de uma alteração. Assim, as alterações patológicas encontradas foram: endometrite (n=4; 30,8%), piometra (n=3; 23%), retenção de placenta (n=2; 15,4%), maceração fetal (n=1; 7,7%), mumificação fetal (n=1; 7,7%), parto distócico (n=1; 7,7%) e ovários afuncionais (n=1; 7,7%).(AU)

This paper presents seven distinct reports diseases with reproductive origins that are not yet described in females agoutis (Dasyprocta aguti Linnaeus, 1758), affecting fertility or resulted in the animal's death. The nature, location and frequency of macroscopic and histological pathological changes of the organs that compose the reproductive system of female agoutis, created under conditions of captivity in the semiarid region of Brazil, are described in this article. Were evaluated by pathological examination of the reproductive tract of thirty-nine naturally dead agoutis and sent to the Veterinary Pathology Laboratory in February 2010 to May 2015. From these, it was found pathological alterations in the reproductive system of 10 (25.6%). A total of 13 abnormalities were observed, and in some animals had the coexistence of more than one alteration. Thus, the pathological changes were: endometritis (n=4, 30.8%), pyometra (n=3; 23%), retained placenta (n=2; 15.4%), fetal maceration (n=1, 7.7%), fetal mummification (n=1, 7.7%), dystocia (n=1, 7.7%) and afuncionais ovary (n=1, 7.7%).(AU)

Cutaneous pythiosis in a donkey (Equus asinus) in Brazil.

Our study describes the clinical, epidemiologic, pathologic, immunohistochemical, and molecular aspects PCR of a case of cutaneous pythiosis in a donkey (Equus asinus) from Brazil. During a dry period, the animal grazed for 4 months around a pond where the vegetation remained green. Skin lesions were nodular, multifocal, and disseminated, mainly involving the legs, ventral chest, and mammary gland. On cut surface, there were multifocal to coalescent discrete yellow foci, and occasional small cavitations with a few kunkers. Ulcerative nodular pyogranulomatous and eosinophilic dermatitis with folliculitis and furunculosis were observed histologically. Hyphae were observed in sections stained with Gomori methenamine silver. Immunohistochemistry with Pythium insidiosum antibodies yielded strong immunostaining of hyphae. P. insidiosum DNA was extracted from tissues in paraffin blocks by amplification of a fragment of 105 bp, which targets the 5.8S ribosomal gene. After the diagnosis of pythiosis, the larger skin lesions were excised and treated as second intention healing wounds, which were completely healed 30 days after resection. Small skin lesions regressed spontaneously in ~60 days. The granulomatous inflammation and outcome of the disease in this donkey were similar to cases of pythiosis in cattle.

Swinepox dermatitis in backyard pigs in Northeastern Brazil / Varíola em suínos no Nordeste do Brasil

This article describes five outbreaks of swinepox in backyard pigs in Northeastern Brazil. It affected backyard pigs from herds of poor hygienic-sanitary conditions with severe fly and lice infestations. The morbidity ranged from 33.3 to 100% among affected herds, with mortality reaching up to 60%. The affected pigs developed multifocal to coalescent gray to white papules and blisters in the skin, with eventual eruptions, evolving to erosions and crusts. In addition to skin lesions, affected piglets presented apathy, anorexia and fever. The disease was auto-limiting, resolving within 15 to 25 days. Histological examination revealed proliferative and ulcerative vesiculopustular dermatitis with ballooning degeneration of epithelial cells, perivascular inflammatory infiltrates of lymphocytes, plasma cells, neutrophils, eosinophils and some macrophages in the dermis. Intracytoplasmic eosinophilic inclusions were consistently observed in keratinocytes. Total DNA extracted from fresh tissue fragments obtained from one outbreak and formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissue from the other four outbreaks was submitted to polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for Swinepox virus (SWPV) and Vaccinia virus (VACV). Genetic SWPV material was identified by PCR in fresh material from one outbreak. Nucleotide sequencing and phylogenetic analysis of the PCR amplicons (viral polymerase gene) demonstrated 100% homology with sequences from SWPV. All tissues were PCR negative for VACV. Swine poxvirus is present in backyard pigs in Northeastern Brazil, indicating the need of including SWPV in the differential diagnosis of dermatitis in pigs.(AU)

Em cinco surtos de varíola em suínos no Nordeste do Brasil foram acometidos leitões e suínos adultos, de rebanhos domésticos criados em condições higiênico-sanitárias precárias, que apresentavam graves infestações por moscas e piolhos. A morbidade variou de 33,3-100% entre os rebanhos afetados e a mortalidade atingindo 60%. Os animais afetados desenvolveram pápulas cinzentas ou esbranquiçadas coalescentes e vesículas, que evoluíram para erosões e crostras. Além das lesões de pele, os leitões afetados apresentavam apatia, anorexia e febre. A doença foi autolimitante, com resolução em 15 a 25 dias. Histologicamente, observou-se dermatite proliferativa e ulcerativa com degeneração balonosa das células do epitélio, infiltrado inflamatório perivascular de linfócitos, plasmócitos, neutrófilos, eosinófilos e escassos macrófagos na derme. Inclusões eosinofílicas intracitoplasmáticas foram consistentemente observadas em queratinócitos. DNA total extraído a partir de fragmentos de tecido frescos obtidos a partir de um surto, e de tecido fixado em formol e embebido em parafina dos outros quatro surtos, foram submetidos à reação em cadeia da polimerase (PCR) para o vírus da varíola suína (SWPV) e o vírus vaccínia (VACV). Material genético do SWPV foi identificado por PCR em material fresco de um surto. O sequenciamento e análise filogenética dos produtos de amplificação da PCR (gene da polimerase viral) demonstraram 100% de homologia com sequências do SWPV. Todos os fragmentos de tecidos foram negativos para VACV na PCR. Este artigo relata a circulação de poxvírus suíno no Nordeste do Brasil, indicando a necessidade de incluir SWPV no diagnóstico diferencial de dermatite em suínos.(AU)

Extramedullary plasmacytoma in a captive collared peccary (Pecari tajacu) / Plasmocitoma extramedular em cateto criado em cativeiro (Pecari tajacu)

An extramedullary plasmacytoma case in a captive collared peccary (Pecari tajacu) is reported. The animal, a female aging three years old, had a medical history of diffusely distributed skin and mucocutaneous junction lesions, associated with swollen lymph nodes. Clinical examination and complementary exams (complete blood count, biochemical analysis, skin scraping to search mites and fungal culture) were performed. Thirty days after examination, the animal died. At necropsy, multiple consistent nodules, aseptic pustules and swollen lymph nodes were found. On histological exams of the skin and oral mucosa, we observed a large number of round cells forming masses organized in nests, sheets, and cords of cells in a well-vascularized fibrovascular tissue. Neoplastic plasma cells infiltrated between the fibers and the lamina propria of smooth muscle. Spaces among the cell masses were filled with some eosinophil and fluid. Most of the cells were well differentiated, presenting a perinuclear clear zone. In some points, the cells were pleomorphic. The plasma cells presented eccentric, basophilic and spherical nuclei, showing a dense to organized chromatin with distinct nucleoli. Binucleate cells were observed, but multinucleated giant cells were rare. Oral mucosa and lymph nodes tested by immunohistochemical analyses were positive for Mb-1, with a multifocal distribution. In regard to Bcl-2, the neoplastic cells were intermittent weakly positive. So, an extramedullary plasmacytoma was diagnosed in the collared peccary considering the location, the histopathological and immunohistochemical findings.(AU)

Um caso de plasmocitoma extramedular em cateto criado em cativeiro (Pecari tajacu) está sendo relatado. O animal, uma fêmea com três anos de idade, apresentou um histórico médico de lesões de pele, envolvendo junção mucocutânea e de aumento de linfonodos. Exame clínico e exames complementares (hemograma completo, análise bioquímica, raspado de pele para pesquisa de ácaros e cultura fúngica) foram realizados. Após 30 dias, o animal morreu. Na necropsia, verificou-se a presença de múltiplos nódulos, pústulas assépticas e aumento dos linfonodos. Na pele e mucosa oral, histologicamente as massas consistiam em ninhos, lençóis e cordões de células redondas, e um estroma fibrovascular bem vascularizado. Os plasmócitos foram observados infiltrados entre as fibras e músculo liso da lâmina própria. Espaços contendo eosinófilos, fluido e células livres estavam presentes na massa. A maioria das células estava bem diferenciada, com uma zona perinuclear clara, mas algumas células demonstraram-se pleomórficas. Os plasmócitos apresentavam núcleo excêntrico, redondo, basófilo, e pontilhado, com cromatina variando de densa a grosseiramente organizada e nucléolos distintos. O citoplasma finamente granular de anfifílico para basofílico. As células foram interpretadas como plasmócitos neoplásicos. Células binucleadas foram observadas e células gigantes multinucleadas eram raras. Na imunohistoquímica de tecidos da mucosa oral e de linfonodos observou-se positividade moderada e multifocal para Mb-1. As células tumorais revelaram positividade fraca e intermitente para Bcl-2. Com base na localização, achados histopatológicos e imuno-histoquímicos, um plasmocitoma extramedular foi diagnosticado.(AU)

Acute toxoplasmosis in pigs in Brazil caused by Toxoplasma gondii genotype Chinese 1.

This study reports the clinicopathological, immunohistochemical, and molecular findings from two cases of systemic toxoplasmosis in pigs showing apathy and dyspnea. In the post-mortem examination, severe diffuse necrotizing bronchointerstitial pneumonia with numerous intralesional tachyzoites of Toxoplasma gondii was observed. The lungs had not collapsed but were diffusely reddened, and the parenchyma showed friable whitish subpleural nodules with multifocal to coalescent distribution and diameters of 0.5-1.0 cm. The histopathological findings comprised mononuclear inflammation and multifocal areas of necrosis in alveolar septa (cases 1 and 2). In addition, esophagitis and ulcerations in the mucosa of the stomach and the small and large intestines were observed (case 1). Immunohistochemical analysis using anti-T. gondii antibodies on lung tissue in both cases revealed strong immunolabeling of free tachyzoites and tachyzoites in the cytoplasm of histiocytes and in cysts. Nested PCR targeting a 155-bp fragment of the B1 gene of T. gondii was positive for the DNA extracted from lung fragments from the two pigs. Genotyping of the samples by means of PCR-RFLP (10 markers) and by means of microsatellites (15 of them) revealed that these animals were infected with T. gondii that was molecularly characterized as the non-archetypal genotype Chinese 1. This presents worldwide circulation, but it had not previously been described in Brazil. The microsatellite analysis showed that the animals were infected with the same T. gondii isolate circulating in the environment.

Intoxicação por Enterolobium contortisiliquum em bovinos na região Nordeste do Brasil / Poisoning by Enterolobium contortisiliquum in cattle in Northeastern Brazil

Descreve-se um surto de fotossensibilização causada por favas de Enterolobium contortisiliquum em bovinos no Estado de Pernambuco, Nordeste do Brasil. Os sinais clínicos observados foram hiporexia, prostração, perda de peso, edema generalizado, dermatite e icterícia. Havia anemia e atividades séricas de AST, LDH e GGT elevadas. A concentração sérica de ureia encontrava-se levemente aumentada e creatinina, proteínas séricas e albumina estavam em níveis normais. Na necropsia, o fígado estava aumentado de tamanho e difusamente alaranjado e os rins estavam aumentados de volume e apresentavam estriações esbranquiçadas irregulares entremeadas por áreas escuras na superfície subcapsular. Histologicamente, observou-se na pele, dermatite ulcerativa. No fígado havia vacuolização e necrose de hepatócitos da região centrolobular e ocasionalmente necrose individual de hepatócitos em outras regiões. O rim apresentava nefrose tubular tóxica. O diagnóstico diferencial da intoxicação por E. contortisiliquum na região semiárida deve incluir as intoxicações por Brachiaria spp, Panicum dichotomiflorum e Froelichia humboldtiana, que também causam fotossensibilização...

An outbreak of photosensitization caused by Enterolobium contortisiliquum pods is reported in cattle in the state of Pernambuco, semiarid region of Northeastern Brazil. The clinical signs included decreased appetite, prostration, weight loss, subcutaneous edema, dermatitis and jaundice. The animals presented mild anemia, elevated serum activities of AST, LDH and GGT, and increased serum concentrations of urea. Serum concentrations of creatinine, total proteins and albumin were within normal ranges. At necropsy, the liver was increased in size and diffusely orange. The subcapsular surface of the kidneys showed irregular whitish striations interspersed with dark areas. Histologically, the skin showed dermatitis, and the liver had centrolobular vacuolation and necrosis of hepatocytes and occasionally single cell necrosis. Tubular toxic nephrosis was also observed. The poisoning by E. contortisiliquum should be differentiate from photosensitation caused by other plants including Brachiaria spp., Panicum dichotomiflorum and Froelichia humboldtiana...

Postmortem findings in collared peccaries raised in captivity in northeastern Brazil / Achados post-mortem em catetos criados em cativeiro no Nordeste do Brasil

This study is a retrospective examination of diseases in collared peccaries that were diagnosed by the Veterinary Pathology Laboratory, Universidade Federal Rural do Semiárido. Necropsy and histological examination were performed from 2005 to 2010. Of the 50 necropsied collared peccaries, 24% died due to restraint and capture myopathy; 18% died from trauma; and the remainder was diagnosed with splenic hemangioma (6%), enterolithiasis (6%), gastritis (6%), gastric ulcer (4%), intestinal volvulus (4%), gastric volvulus (2%), mammary carcinoma (2%), polycystic kidney disease (2%), pyometra (2%), and suppurative bronchopneumonia (2%). Twelve animals remained undiagnosed, seven of which (14%) were in advanced autolytic condition and five of which (10%) had no gross or microscopic lesions that were compatible with disease. This paper describes illnesses that have not been reported in the collared peccary, focusing on their clinical and pathological aspects.(AU)

Este trabalho teve por objetivo realizar um estudo retrospectivo sobre as doenças de catetos diagnosticadas pelo Laboratório de Patologia Veterinária da Universidade Federal Rural do Semi-Árido, através do exame de necropsia e histológico no período de 2005 a 2010. Dos 50 catetos submetidos à necropsia, as percentagens das enfermidades diagnosticadas foram: miopatia por captura e contenção (24%), morte por traumas (18%), hemangioma do baço (6%), enterolitíase (6%), gastrite (6%), úlcera gástrica (4%), vólvulo intestinal (4%), vólvulo gástrico (2%), carcinoma mamário (2%), doença renal policística (2%), piometra (2%) e broncopneumonia supurativa (2%). Onze (22%) animais permaneceram sem diagnóstico, dos quais sete (10%) apresentavam avançado estado autolítico e cinco (14%) não foram observadas lesões macroscópicas e microscópicas compatíveis com nenhuma enfermidade. Este estudo apresenta relatos de doenças ainda não descritas em catetos, com enfoque nos aspectos clínicos e patológicos.(AU)

Outbreaks of Vesicular stomatitis Alagoas virus in horses and cattle in northeastern Brazil.

The current article describes outbreaks of vesicular stomatitis (VS) in horses and cattle in Paraiba and Rio Grande do Norte states, northeastern Brazil, between June and August 2013. The reported cases affected 15-20 horses and 6 cattle distributed over 6 small farms in 4 municipalities, but additional data indicated the involvement of a large number of animals on several farms. The disease was characterized by blisters; eruptive lesions in coronary bands, lips, mouth, and muzzle; salivation; claudication and loss of condition. Swollen lower limbs and lips, and ulcerated and erosive areas in the lips and muzzle were observed in some horses. A necrotizing vesiculopustular dermatitis and stomatitis was observed histologically. Vesicular stomatitis virus was isolated from the vesicular fluid of a horse lesion and shown to be serologically related to the VS Indiana serogroup (VSIV) by virus neutralization. Convalescent sera of affected horses and cattle, and from healthy contacts, harbored high levels of neutralizing antibodies against the isolated virus (named VSIV-3 2013SaoBento/ParaibaE). Genomic sequences of VSIV subtype 3 (Vesicular stomatitis Alagoas virus) were amplified by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction out of clinical specimens from a cow and a horse from different farms. Nucleotide sequencing and phylogenetic analysis of the phosphoprotein gene indicated that the 2 isolates were derived from the same virus and clustered them in VSIV-3, along with VS viruses identified in southeastern and northeastern Brazil in the last decades. Thus, the present report demonstrates the circulation of VSIV-3 in northeastern Brazil and urges for more effective diagnosis and surveillance.

Pathogenesis of reproductive failure induced by Trypanosoma vivax in experimentally infected pregnant ewes.

The present study was aimed at investigating the effect of experimental infection by Trypanosoma vivax in different stages of pregnancy, determining the pathogenesis of reproductive failure, and confirming transplacental transmission. We used 12 pregnant ewes distributed into four experimental groups: G1, was formed by three ewes infected with T. vivax in the first third of pregnancy (30 days); G2 comprised three infected ewes in the final third of pregnancy (100 days); G3 and G4 were composed of three non-infected ewes with the same gestational period, respectively. Each ewe of G1 and G2 was inoculated with 1.25×10(5) tripomastigotes. Clinical examination, determination of parasitemia, serum biochemistry (albumin, total protein, glucose, cholesterol, and urea), packed cell volume (PCV), serum progesterone, and pathological examination were performed. Placenta, amniotic fluid, blood and tissues from the fetuses and stillbirths were submitted to PCR. Two ewes of G1 (Ewe 1 and 3) presented severe infection and died in the 34th and 35th days post-infection (dpi), respectively; but both fetuses were recovered during necropsy. In G2, Ewe 5 aborted two fetuses on the 130th day (30 dpi) of pregnancy; and Ewe 6 aborted one fetus in the 140th day (40 dpi) of gestation. Ewes 2 and 4 delivered two weak lambs that died five days after birth. Factors possibly involved with the reproductive failure included high parasitemia, fever, low PCV, body score, serum glucose, total protein, cholesterol, and progesterone. Hepatitis, pericarditis, and encephalitis were observed in the aborted fetuses. The presence of T. vivax DNA in the placenta, amniotic fluid, blood, and tissues from the fetuses confirms the transplacental transmission of the parasite. Histological lesion in the fetuses and placenta also suggest the involvement of the parasite in the etiopathogenesis of reproductive failure in ewes.

Follicular degeneration in the ovaries of goats experimentally infected with Trypanosoma vivax from the Brazilian semi-arid region.

Infection by Trypanosoma vivax and other African trypanosomes plays an important role in reproductive disorders in male and female livestock. Outbreaks of T. vivax in the semi-arid region of northeastern Brazil are characterized by wasting disease in cattle, sheep and goats with hematological, cardiac and nervous compromises in addition to reproductive failures. Similar to reports from Africa, we previously observed a reduction in fertility rates and severe testicular degeneration and epididymitis in male sheep infected with T. vivax from this region. Although anestrus is frequently reported in goats and sheep infected with T. vivax, the effects of this infection on the female reproductive organs need clarification. In this study, we addressed this issue through a histopathological evaluation of ovarian follicular morphology and classification in goats experimentally infected with a T. vivax isolate from the Brazilian semi-arid region. The infected animals presented typical clinical signs of trypanosomosis by T. vivax, including anemia, hyperthermia, pallor of the mucous membranes, enlarged lymph nodes, and progressive loss of weight. All the infected goats remained anestrus throughout the experimental period and exhibited important disturbances in the ovaries, evidenced by reduced size and a smooth surface without follicles or corpora lutea, and abnormal follicular development. In addition, through PCR, we detected T. vivax DNA in the ovarian tissues of the infected goats. Our findings contributed to understand the female reproductive failure associated with trypanosomosis caused by T. vivax.

Spontaneous and experimental poisoning by Marsdenia megalantha Goyder & Morillo in ruminants and a pig.

Marsdenia megalantha is a rupicolous shrub with succulent roots from the semiarid region of Brazil that is known to cause fatal poisoning in livestock. We reported spontaneous cases of poisoning by M. megalantha roots in bovine, caprine, ovine, and equine species. The clinical and pathological findings of experimental administration of M. megalantha to sheep, goats, a calf and a pig are reported. Three goats, two sheep and a calf were dosed once orally with freshly chopped roots at dose of 25 g wet plant/kg bw; another sheep and a pig were dosed with 10 g wet plant/kg bw. Poisoning occurred in all of the animals except the three goats. Clinical signs of poisoning included tachycardia, opisthotonus, ruminal bloat, dyspnea, nystagmus, mydriasis, ataxia, and recumbence with paddling movements. Pathological evaluation showed segmental laminar neuronal necrosis and spongiosis in the telencephalic cortex and degeneration of Purkinje cells. The picrate paper procedure detected no cyanide in the plant roots, but the reaction used for nitrate detection gave a strongly positive response. In conclusion, M. megalantha is a poisonous plant that produces acute poisoning characterized mainly by nervous disturbances. Livestock producers should offer alternative food during the dry and early rainy seasons to avoid the poisoning by this plant.