Pleural Empyema in Six Horses: A Retrospective Case Series.

The clinical findings of pleural empyema in six horses were retrospectively studied using epidemiological, clinical pathology, microbiological, ultrasound, and post-mortem data. The clinical findings included tachycardia (n = 3/6), tachypnea (n = 6/6), cyanotic mucosa (n = 2/6), hyperthermia (n = 4/6), inspiratory or mixed dyspnea (n = 6/6), presence of fluid and/or pleural rubbing (n = 2/6) and coarse crackling on auscultation (n = 4/6). Horses demonstrated leukocytosis (16.22 × 103/µL) with neutrophilia (12.32 × 103/µL) and hyperfibrinogenemia (633.33 mg/dL) and an increase in urea (69.80 mg/kg) and globulins (5.22 g/dL). The pleural fluid exhibited exudate (n = 5/6). The pathogens isolated from transtracheal wash (TTW) and/or pleural effusion included Aspergillus fumigatus, Enterobacter cloacae, alpha and beta hemolytic Streptococcus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Salmonella sp., Streptococcus equi subsp. zooepidemicus, and beta hemolytic Staphylococcus. The in vitro tests of microbial sensitivity of the isolates revealed that ceftiofur (5/6) and penicillin (3/6) were the most effective drugs. The fatality rate was 83% (5/6). The main post-mortem finding was the presence of fibrin in the pleural cavity with adhesion between the parietal and visceral pleura. These results show that pleural empyema is a complex disease pathophysiology that is refractory to conventional treatment.

Pleural effusion-related Nocardia otitidiscaviarum, Anaplasma platys and Ehrlichia canis coinfection in a dog.

The coinfections by some microorganisms have been related to severe diseases in humans and animals, where immunosuppressive agents favor opportunistic behavior of other pathogens. A 4-month-old, female mixed-breed dog with a two-week history of inappetence, prostration, emaciation, and respiratory distress was admitted at a veterinary hospital in Brazil. Tachycardia, pale mucous membranes, severe respiratory distress, and a large number of ticks (Rhipicephalus sanguineus s.l.) in different body regions were observed at clinical examination. Hematological examination of dog showed leukocytosis, neutrophilia, mild anemia, and thrombocytopenia, whereas unremarkable values in biochemical tests. Thoracic radiography revealed a pleural effusion image. Blood and the pleural fluid (purulent aspect) samples were subjected to qPCR (16S rRNA and dsb genes) and sequencing, which identified Ehrlichia canis and Anaplasma platys coinfection. An aggregate of coccoid-to-branching or long filamentous microorganisms, surrounded by pyogranulomatous inflammatory reaction was seen at the cytology of the pleural fluid. Bacteriological culture of pleural effusion showed colonies compatible with the genus Nocardia, which revealed gram-positive filamentous organisms with a tendency of fragmentation and were identified as Nocardia otitidiscaviarum in mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF MS). Therapy of N. otitidiscaviarum isolate using levofloxacin (supported by a previous in vitro susceptibility testing) and doxycycline for E. canis and A. platys resulted in complete resolution of the clinical picture. Here, we report for the first time a triple coinfection by Nocardia otitidiscaviarum, A. platys, and E. canis in a dog with pleural effusion, where debilitating or immunosuppressive conditions induced by A. platys and E. canis coinfection probably contributed to the opportunistic behavior of N. otitidiscaviarum.

Effect of acupuncture on hematologic, muscular biomarkers, fibrinogen and serum lactate parameters in training rodeo bulls.

The study aimed to evaluated the effects of acupuncture in rodeo bulls in training, by determining hematological variables, creatine kinase (CK), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), fibrinogen, and plasma lactate. Thirty adult healthy bulls, crossbred, were included in the study and randomly allocated into two groups of 15 animals, according to the use of acupuncture treatment for six months (GA) or not (GB). The variables were measured 30 min before (TP0) and 10 min (TP10min), 12 (TP12h), 24 (TP24h), 48 (TP48h), and 72 h (TP72h) after a single episode of jumping emulating rodeo exercise. The GB group showed variations in hemoglobin between TP0 and TP10min (p = 0.002) and TP0 and TP12h (p = 0.004), and the GA presented an increase in eosinophil values between TP0 and TP12h (p = 0.013) and TP0 and TP24h (p = 0.034). Leukopenia was observed in GB between TP10min and TP72h ((p = 0.008). The CK values were high (↑ 300 UI/l) after exercise until the TP24h, and decreased in TP48h, in both groups. The plasma lactate elevation was lower in the GA at TP10min (p = 0.011), TP12h (p = 0.008), TP72h (p < 0.001). The rodeo bulls submitted to acupuncture treatment showed smaller variations in hemogram, elevated eosinophils levels, and lower plasma lactate levels after exercise.

Prevalence of cholelithiasis in lion tamarins (Leontopithecus spp.) kept under human care by using abdominal ultrasound.

BACKGROUND: Cholelithiasis is a digestive system disorder of multifactorial origin that occurs due to stones formed in the gallbladder. This study aimed at investigating by abdominal ultrasound examination the prevalence of cholelithiasis in lion tamarins kept under human care. METHODS: Thirty lion tamarins from five Brazilian zoos, including 17 golden lion tamarins and 13 golden-headed lion tamarins, were evaluated. RESULTS: Considering all lion tamarins, the overall frequency of cholelithiasis was 53.3% (16/30). There were no significant differences between species and sex. Cholelithiasis was predominant (75.0%) in lion tamarins older than 5 years. Septate gallbladder was observed in 86.6% (26/30) of the lion tamarins. Of these, 53.8% (14/26) had gallstones. Biochemical analysis revealed a moderate positive correlation between gamma-glutamyl transferase and the number of gallstones. CONCLUSIONS: Asymptomatic cholelithiasis is frequent in lion tamarins kept under human care. Therefore, systematic monitoring through ultrasound should be part of the preventive care of these animals.

Myeloperoxidase enzyme and Ferric-reducing antioxidant power concentrations in lean and obese dogs.

The study aimed to assess plasma Myeloperoxidase enzyme (MPO) and Ferric-reducing antioxidant power (FRAP) in obese dogs and compare them with ideal body weight dogs. Thirty-two dogs were distributed into two groups according to a 9-point body condition score (BCS), as follows: Control group (n = 16), dogs with a BCS of 4 or 5; Obese group (n = 16), dogs with a BCS of 8 or 9. Plasma MPO and FRAP assays, neutrophil count, lipid profile (cholesterol and triglycerides), and systolic blood pressure (SBP) were evaluated in both groups. The duration of obesity was defined based on history. The obese group showed higher values for body weight, BCS, SBP, neutrophil count, triglycerides, and MPO than the Control group. A positive correlation was observed between MPO concentrations and BCS and body weight. FRAP concentrations showed a positive correlation with the duration of obesity. The results suggested that an inflammatory state caused by obesity may promote increased neutrophil count and MPO concentrations, besides the positive correlation between MPO with BCS and body weight. The obesity in dogs promoted slight active MPO elevation, influenced by body weight, BCS, and neutrophil count. The FRAP assay did not show the expected reduction and, therefore, needs further investigation.

Immunohematological features of free-living Alouatta belzebul (Linnaeus, 1766) red-handed howler monkeys in the Eastern Amazon.

The red-handed howler monkey (Alouatta belzebul) is one of the 35 threatened Brazilian primate species found in two highly endangered Brazilian biomes. Their Amazonian native populations have been declining due to exponential deforestation associated with human activities, especially the construction of dams. The studied population (n = 27) was located in the Belo Monte dam Area of Influence. For the first time, we presented hematological parameters and the basic profile of T (CD3) and B (BSAP PAX5) cells by immunocytochemistry. The results supported the hypothesis that the immuno-hematological profile is influenced by sex, age, and season. Eosinophils were significantly higher in females (p = 0.03), monocytes statistically greater in juveniles (p = 0.04), and total plasma protein increased significantly (p > 0.001) during the dry season. Furthermore, adults showed a statistically higher average absolute number of B lymphocytes than young individuals (p = 0.03), in contrast to T lymphocytes. Even without knowing the full history of antigenic exposure, these results not only contribute to elucidating the boundaries between health and disease but may help lay the groundwork for future research into the effects of anthropogenic stress on immune activation.

Beta-caryophyllene as an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and re-epithelialization activities in a rat skin wound excision model.

The skin is a critical organ for the maintenance of the integrity and protection of the organism. When a wound occurs, a sequence of healing mechanisms is triggered to reconstruct the wounded area. ß-caryophyllene is a sesquiterpene in Copaifera langsdorffii oleoresin with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potential. On the basis of previous studies with C. langsdorffii, ß-caryophyllene was selected to evaluate its wound healing potential and pharmacological mechanisms. The excision wound model was used with male Wistar rats and macroscopic, histological, immunohistochemical and biochemical analyses were performed with skin samples, comparing the ß-caryophyllene-treated group with reference drugs. The results showed macroscopic retraction of the wounds treated with ß-caryophyllene. Biochemical assays revealed the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory mechanisms of the ß-caryophyllene-treated group with increasing levels of IL-10 and GPx and decreasing levels of pro-inflammatory molecules, including TNF-α, IFN-γ, IL-1ß and IL-6. After ß-caryophyllene treatment, immunohistochemical assays showed enhanced re-epithelialization, through the increase in laminin-γ2 and desmoglein-3 immunolabeling. ß-caryophyllene also act in the remodeling mechanism, increasing the collagen content in the Masson's trichrome staining. These findings indicated the wound-healing potential of ß-caryophyllene topical formulation in rat skin wounds, mediated by antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and re-epithelialization mechanisms.

Sequential Cerebrospinal Fluid Sampling in Horses: Comparison of Sampling Times and Two Different Collection Sites.

Analysis of the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is important as a complementary test in horses with neurologic diseases, and sequential analysis may provide information about the treatment response or evolution and quantitative measures of the CSF drug concentration during treatment. The aim of this study was to compare erythrocyte and nucleated cell counts and protein concentration in multiple CSF samples obtained sequentially from two different puncture sites in clinically healthy horses. Eight and 12 horses, with no evidence of neurologic disease, were subjected to CSF collection from the atlanto-occipital (AO) and C1-C2 spaces, respectively. Cytologic and chemical analyses were performed on the CSF obtained at five sampling times (T1, T2, T3, T4, and T5). Repeated measures models were used to compare the mean erythrocyte count, nucleated cell count, and total protein concentration between the AO and C1-C2 groups at each sampling time. C1-C2 CSF had a significantly higher total protein concentration at T1 and T4 than that of AO CSF. All total protein concentration values remained within the reference interval (<90 mg/dL) for all sampling times and groups. No statistical difference was present between results at T2, T3, T4, and T5 and at T1 in both groups for all analyses. In conclusion, five consecutive AO or C1-C2 CSF collections with at least a 7-d interval did not result in alterations in the CSF erythrocyte and nucleated cell counts and total protein concentrations and did not interfere with the CSF analysis results.

Serum biochemistry panel of free-living red-handed howler monkeys (Alouatta belzebul) in the Eastern Amazon.

BACKGROUND: The red-handed howler monkey (Alouatta belzebul) is one of 116 imperiled Brazilian primate species. We aimed to determine the serum biochemical profile of free-ranging red-handed howler monkeys in a highly disturbed area of the eastern Amazon. METHODS: We obtained serum samples from 26 monkeys, in which we analyzed 20 biochemical variables. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS: Calcium concentration was significantly lower in adult males (1.82 ± 0.25 mmol/L) than in adult females (2.10 ± 0.50 mmol/L). Both adults (males = 89 ± 85 UI/L, females = 62 ± 23 UI/L) had lower alkaline phosphatase serum activity than juvenile females (178 ± 120 UI/L). Adult male had higher levels of the direct bilirubin (13.9 ± 8.2 µmol/L) and creatinine (74.3 ± 19.4 µmol/L) than juvenile females (5.1 ± 1.4 µmol/L and 38.9 ± 15.0 µmol/L, respectively). This detailed biochemical profile may be useful for the management of red-handed howler monkeys in the wild and to support further studies at ex situ facilities.

Inflammatory response of miniature horses subjected to open and half-closed orchiectomy techniques.

BACKGROUND: This study aimed to evaluate the inflammatory response of miniature horses subjected to open and half-closed orchiectomy by physical examination, blood cell count, peritoneal fluid evaluation, total plasma protein, fibrinogen, and serum amyloid A (SAA) concentrations. METHODS: Thirteen male healthy miniature horses were divided into two groups, according to the surgical approach: half-closed technique (HCT) and open technique (OT). The HCT group was subjected to ligation of the spermatic cord followed by its sharp incision, and closure of the vaginal tunic, and the OT group was only submitted to cord ligation. Prior to, and at 1, 2, 3 and 5 days after the surgery, a general and specific physical examination, blood cell counts, total plasma protein, peritoneal fluid evaluation, fibrinogen, and SAA concentrations were performed. RESULTS: Higher postoperative perilesional oedema, rectal temperature, and fibrinogen were observed in the HCT group. Groups did not differ as to SAA concentrations. The evaluated local and systemic inflammatory profile demonstrated that, as expected, surgery resulted in inflammation in both groups. CONCLUSIONS: The group subjected to the HCT showed a more intense and lasting inflammatory response. However, despite the different postoperative inflammatory profiles, both groups presented a favourable outcome and recovery.

Epidemiological aspects of Ancylostoma spp. infection in naturally infected dogs from São Paulo state, Brazil.

Ancylostoma spp. are the most prevalent canine nematode parasites in Brazil. Despite their widespread parasitism in juvenile dogs, infections may occur regardless of host age. Although eosinophilia is a frequent finding in experimental infections, it is uncommon in naturally infected dogs. This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of Ancylostoma spp. and the eosinophil blood counts (EBC) in naturally infected dogs, with or without comorbidities, admitted to the Veterinary Teaching Hospital of the São Paulo State University (UNESP), School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, Botucatu campus, São Paulo state, Brazil, from 2009 to 2018. All retrospective data were gathered from veterinary medical records (VMR); diagnosis of Ancylostoma infection required the identification of eggs in fecal samples by the simple flotation test (SFT). Ancylostoma-infected animals were evaluated for other intestinal parasitic coinfections (IPC) by either the SFT or the centrifugal-flotation test. Dogs free of any gastro-intestinal parasites were prospectively included in control group (Group C). Ancylostoma-infected animals were defined: Ancylostoma spp. only intestinal parasite infection (Group A), Ancyslostoma spp. with concurrent IPC (Group B), Ancylostoma spp. only intestinal parasite infection with concurrent systemic disorders (Group D), and Ancylostoma spp. with both IPC and concurrent systemic disorders (Group E). The overall prevalence of Ancylostoma spp. was 12.1% (207/1715), that was decreased from 2014 to 2018 (9.7%) relative to the 2009-to-2013 period (13.9%). Prevalence was not significantly different between dogs <1-year-old (10.7% [51/478]) and ≥ 1 year-old (11.7% [130/1109]). IPC was observed in 45.4% (93/205) of the animals positive for Ancylostoma spp., while dogs <1 year old experienced IPC more often (58.8% [30/51]) than dogs ≥1 year old (38.5% [50/130]) (P = 0.02). Group A (n = 35) exhibited median EBC of 1.05 × 109/L, and an eosinophilia ratio of 34.3% that was significantly higher (P < 0.05) than Group C (0.45 × 109/L and 4.1%, respectively). Both variables did not differ in Group B (n = 20), D (n = 39) or E (n = 36) in comparison to Group C (P > 0.05). By ROC curve analysis, only Group A generated a significant area under the curve (0.72). With EBC cutoff of 0.85 × 109 eosinophils/L, sensitivity and specificity were 65.7% and 70.8%, respectively. Eosinophil counts alone may be helpful in raising suspicion of an Ancylostoma spp. infection if further intestinal parasites and concurrent disorders are absent. However, local prevalence data and epidemiological findings should also be evaluated, since eosinophilia is less frequently observed with Ancylostoma spp. infections in the presence of comorbidities.

Island and Riverine populations of Alouatta belzebul from the Brazilian Amazon parasitized by Pediculus mjobergi.

Mammalian lice are obligate hematophagous ectoparasites that remain on the host throughout the life cycle. This study showed an endangered wild howler species (Alouatta belzebul) parasitized by Pediculus mjobergi. Twenty-seven primates were rescued during wildlife rescue activities in the process of vegetation suppression at the Belo Monte Hydroelectric Power Plant (UHE), located on the lower Xingu River, in the Brazilian Amazon basin. Among the 27 primates examined from two vegetal formations (alluvial rainforest and liana-infested forest) areas, 13 (48.15%) were parasitized by lice with all positive primates being from alluvial rainforest. Optical and scanning electron microscopy allowed the visualization of the structures and the diagnostic characters of the lice species in greater detail expanding the current description. These results highlight the importance of considering ecological and regional features to provide a better understanding of the factors that promote parasitism.

Accuracy of differences in blood and peritoneal glucose to differentiate between septic and non-septic peritonitis in horses.

Difference in blood and peritoneal glucose (DBPG) is used in clinical practice to support a diagnosis of septic peritonitis in horses. It is inexpensive, easy and rapid to perform. The aim of this study was to evaluate the accuracy of the DBPG to differentiate between septic and non-septic peritonitis in horses. Blood and peritoneal fluids were harvested from suspected animals. Plasma and peritoneal glucose levels, total nucleated cell count, direct microscopic and microbiological examinations of the peritoneal fluid were evaluated. Using DBPG levels, the animals were classified into two groups: difference ≥ 50 mg/dL (positive test) and difference < 50 mg/dL (negative test). Positive microbiological examination and/or presence of bacteria in direct microscopic examination was used as a gold standard to detect septic peritonitis. The accuracy parameters analysed were: sensitivity, specificity, and positive/negative predictive values, for which the results were respectively: 0.23, 0.91, 0.60 and 0.67. Due to poor accuracy, other cut-off margins and peritoneal glucose concentrations were evaluated. The test was considered most accurate when the DBPG was zero with sensitivity, specificity, and positive/negative predictive values of 0.85, 0.82, 0.73, 0.90 respectively. Peritoneal glucose concentrations alone were not a reliable feature to detect peritonitis. DBPG ≥50 mg/dL, widely used for the diagnosis of septic peritonitis, does not have a good accuracy and the DBPG = 0 has a better accuracy for detecting the disease.

Corrigendum to "Lupeol, a Dietary Triterpene, Enhances Wound Healing in Streptozotocin-Induced Hyperglycemic Rats with Modulatory Effects on Inflammation, Oxidative Stress, and Angiogenesis".

[This corrects the article DOI: 10.1155/2019/3182627.].

Adjuvant intraperitoneal ceftriaxone in the treatment of septic peritonitis in horses.

BACKGROUND: Intraperitoneal administration of ceftriaxone maintains therapeutic abdominal concentrations for 24 hours in healthy horses. Therefore, it is a possible treatment for septic peritonitis. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of ceftriaxone as an adjuvant treatment in horses with septic peritonitis. METHODS: Twenty-six horses with clinical signs, sonography and/or laboratory findings of septic peritonitis were included. Peritoneal fluid was collected for microbiological culture and in vitro microbial sensitivity profile assessment. Daily intraperitoneal administration of ceftriaxone (25 mg/kg) was initiated with supportive and systemic antimicrobial treatment. The animals were divided into three groups: group 1-gastrointestinal tract injuries and abdominal surgery (excluding perforations/ruptures); group 2-not related to changes in the gastrointestinal tract; group 3-secondary to intestinal rupture and/or faeces contamination. RESULTS: The mean success rate of the treatment was 77 per cent (20/26 animals), with success rates of 84.6 per cent in group 1; 87.5 per cent, group 2; and 40 per cent, group 3. CONCLUSIONS: This is the first study to report adjuvant intraperitoneal treatment ceftriaxone for septic peritonitis in horses and indicates that this treatment can successfully treat septic peritonitis in horses.

The Effect of Intermittent Hemodialysis on the Hematological and Serum Biochemistry Profile in Dogs With Chronic Kidney Disease.

Intermittent hemodialysis (IHD) is a type of kidney replacement therapy commonly prescribed in veterinary medicine for cases of drug removal, fluid, acid-base, and electrolyte disorders, acute kidney injury, and cases of chronic kidney disease (CKD) in uremic crisis. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of intermittent hemodialysis in dogs with IRIS stage 4 CKD in contrast to dogs treated only with standard medical management, without dialysis, to improve their quality of life. Twenty-five dogs previously diagnosed with IRIS stage 4 CKD were selected for the study according to the inclusion criteria. Dogs were randomized to 2 distinct groups: the control group (n = 11), which underwent a conventional clinical treatment for CKD; and the hemodialysis group (n = 14), which underwent intermittent hemodialysis in addition to the clinical treatment. Both groups had a period of 15 days of clinical and laboratory evaluation. Laboratory analysis consisted of chemistry and hematological evaluation before and after both treatments at a minimum interval of 48 hours. Clinical parameters and eventual complications were assessed every 30 minutes during the IHD. When compared with conventional treatment, IHD was highly efficient in removing urea, creatinine, and phosphorus, but presented a hematological risk to the patient, requiring constant monitoring of hematological and biochemical profiles in order to correct alterations. Therefore, IHD is a highly recommended treatment if adequately monitored by trained professionals.

Uncommon Ehrlichia canis infection associated with morulae in neutrophils from naturally infected dogs in Brazil.

Ehrlichia and Anaplasma species are the most common tick-borne disease (TBD) pathogens in dogs worldwide. Ehrlichia canis, the aetiological agent of the Canine Monocytic Ehrlichiosis (CME), is known to replicate within the cytoplasm of mononuclear cells into clusters of organisms called morulae. However, detection of morulae in neutrophils is commonly observed in dogs infected by Ehrlichia ewingii or Anaplasma phagocytophilum. We report uncommon clinical cases of canine ehrlichiosis presenting morulae compatible with E. ewingii and A. phagocytophilum in dogs from two distinct regions of Brazil. Eight dogs were admitted to two veterinary teaching hospitals from Brazil, showing clinical or haematological signs suggestive of TBD. Blood or peritoneal fluid was withdrawn for haematological and cytologic analysis. All samples were evaluated by PCR assays for Ehrlichia and Anaplasma using genus-specific primers for dsb, 16S rRNA and groEL genes, followed by sequencing. Samples were also evaluated by nested PCR assays for the 16S rRNA gene of E. ewingii and groEL gene of A. phagocytophilum and Anaplasma platys. Seven dogs revealed thrombocytopenia, six dogs had monocytosis and five presented lymphopenia and anaemia. All dogs showed morulae structures compatible with Ehrlichia spp. in neutrophils and were PCR-positive for the dsb and 16S rRNA gene fragments of Ehrlichia, with sequences showing 100% identity with multiple E. canis sequences deposited in the GenBank™. Sequencing of 16S rRNA and groEL gene fragments from one PCR-positive dog showed 100% identity with A. platys. Overall, our data suggest that in endemic regions for E. canis, that is Brazil, the presence of morulae in neutrophils may indicate infection by this bacterium. Herein, morulae were also found in neutrophils present in the peritoneal fluid of a dog. Also, this is the first report of E. canis and Hepatozoon canis co-infection in neutrophils from naturally infected dogs confirmed by DNA sequencing.

Symmetric dimethylarginine concentrations in dogs with International Renal Interest Society stage 4 chronic kidney disease undergoing intermittent hemodialysis.

BACKGROUND: Symmetric dimethylarginine (SDMA) is a methylated arginine derived from intranuclear methylation of l-arginine by protein-arginine methyltransferase and released into circulation after proteolysis. It is primarily eliminated by renal excretion, and its concentration is highly correlated with glomerular filtration rate (GFR) in animals and humans and is an earlier indicator of kidney dysfunction than serum creatinine concentration (sCr). OBJECTIVES: To evaluate and quantify the effects of IV fluid therapy (IF) or intermittent hemodialysis (IH) on renal function in a randomized group of dogs previously diagnosed with International Renal Interest Society (IRIS) stage 4 chronic kidney disease (CKD). ANIMALS: Twenty-four client-owned dogs with naturally occurring CKD. METHODS: Serum from 14 dogs treated by IH and 10 dogs treated with IF was submitted for measurement of sCr and SDMA. Dogs in each treatment group received up to 5 treatment sessions, administered 48 hours apart. RESULTS: Significant differences (P ≤ .05) were seen between treatment groups, but dogs from the IH group were the most affected based on SDMA (P < .001), sCr (P < .001), and blood urea (P < .001) concentrations. Furthermore, for each 10% increase in urea reduction ratio, there was a 6.2 µg/dL decrease in SDMA (P = .002). CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE: Although SDMA is dialyzable biomarker and despite its removal by IH, SDMA correlates better with renal function than does sCr in dogs with CKD undergoing IF and IH.

Anemia hemolítica imunomediada primária em cães - Revisão de literatura / Primary immune-mediated hemolytic anemia in dogs - Literature review / Anemia hemolítica inmunomediada primaria en perros ­ Revisión de literatura

A anemia hemolítica imunomediada (AHIM) é o distúrbio imunológico de maior prevalência em cães. Caracteriza-se como uma hipersensibilidade do tipo II, que leva a destruição prematura de hemácias. Dentre as principais complicações, o estado de hipercoagulabilidade predispondo a coagulação intravascular disseminada e tromboembolismo pulmonar é a mais importante, sendo a causa de óbito em mais de 80% dos casos. O diagnóstico é realizado a partir da exclusão de outras causas para anemia e por meio da constatação de um ou mais desses sinais: anemia moderada a grave (hematócrito <25-35%), evidências de hemólise (hemoglobinemia, hemoglobinúria ou hiperbilirrubinemia) e presença de anticorpos na hemácia (caracterizado a partir da auto-aglutinação, esferocitose, teste de Coombs positivo ou citometria de fluxo). O tratamento é direcionado à supressão da resposta imune, sendo os corticosteroides e os imunossupressores, os fármacos de predileção.(AU)

Immune-mediated hemolytic anemia (IMHA) is the most prevalent immune disorder among dogs. It is characterized as type II hypersensitivity, leading to premature destruction of red blood cells. Among the main complications, hypercoagulability predisposing to disseminated intravascular coagulation and pulmonary thromboembolism is the most important, being the cause of death in more than 80% of the cases. The diagnosis is made by excluding other causes for anemia and the presence of one or more of these signs: moderate to severe anemia (hematocrit <25-35%), evidence of hemolysis (hemoglobinemia, hemoglobinuria or hyperbilirubinemia) and presence of antibodies in the erythrocyte (characterized by self-agglutination, spherocytosis, positive Coombs test, or flow cytometry). Treatment is directed to suppression of the immune response, with corticosteroids and immunosuppressants the drugs of predilection.(AU)

La anemia hemolítica inmunomediada (AHIM) es el disturbio inmunológico con mayor prevalencia en perros. Es definido como una hipersensibilidad tipo II, que lleva a destrucción prematura de hematíes. Dentro de las principales complicaciones, el estado de hipercoagulabilidad que predispone a coagulación intravascular diseminada y tromboembolismo pulmonar es el más importante, siendo la causa de muerte en más de 80% de los casos. El diagnóstico se realiza excluyendo otras causas de anemia y confirmando una o más de las siguientes alteraciones: anemia moderada a grave (hematocrito <25-35%), evidencias de hemolisis (hemoglobinemia, hemoglobinuria o hiperbilirrubinemia) y presencia de anticuerpos en hematíes (caracterizado a partir de autoaglutinación, esferocitosis, test de Coombs positivo o citometría de flujo). El tratamiento se basa en la supresión de la respuesta inmune, siendo los cortico esteroides y los inmunosupresores los fármacos de elección.(AU)

Microfilaruria by Dirofilaria immitis in a dog: a rare clinical pathological finding.

A 6-year-old Labrador with history of hyperpnea, respiratory distress, ascites and paraparesis, presented Dirofilaria immitis microfilariae in the blood smear, cytology of the abdominal fluid and urine. The positive samples were confirmed by multiplex-PCR (COI gene) and sequencing, and presented 98% homology to D. immitis (GenBank accession nos. KC107805.1, EU159111.1, EU163945.1, DQ358815.1, and AJ537512-1). Based on the presented results and the physiopathology of the heartworm disease, molecular techniques may be helpful and accurate in the diagnosis of the disease in vertebrates, and microfilaruria, even uncommon, should be considered on a renal failure evaluation.