Evaluation of the ratio of different major and trace elements in the lens of dogs with cataract.

BACKGROUND: Understanding the elements that support cataract development and searching for available therapeutic methods is essential for scientific and social interest. For that purpose, the role of trace elements has been investigated in this study to better understand the development of cataracts in dogs. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to evaluate the ratio of the major and trace elements by X-ray fluorescence spectrometry in dog cataract lenses to contribute to diagnostic, non-surgical, and ophthalmological preventive data. METHODS: A single lens with a cataract from each of a total of 88 dogs (cataract group) and a healthy lens from each of 6 dogs (control group) were evaluated. The elements calcium (Ca), iron (Fe), copper (Cu), zinc (Zn), magnesium (Mg), manganese (Mn), and potassium (K) were analyzed by energy dispersive X-ray fluorescence and X-ray microfluorescence. RESULTS: The results indicated an increase of Ca, Fe, Cu, and Zn, in association with the reabsorption mechanism of hypermature cataracts. CONCLUSIONS: The ratio of elements Ca, Fe, Cu, and Zn was different in cataract lenses than in healthy lenses, and our results may support the development of therapeutic strategies for cataracts in dogs. The Ca concentrations were distinct in the cataract development stages, and the Fe concentration was relatively higher in males when compared to females. Finally, this research stands out with a particular contribution to the understanding of both cataract formation and prevention.

The Anatomy of the Stomatognathic System in Different Skull Types in Dogs.

The anatomy of the stomatognathic system is important for both clinical evaluations and surgical approaches in all animal species. The aim of this study was to describe the innervation and vascularization of the stomatognathic system of the dog. Twelve dogs without a history of disease or cranial malformation were used: 4 brachycephalic, 4 mesocephalic, and 4 dolichocephalic. The dogs were dissected, and arteries, veins, and nerves related to the masticatory and swallowing components were identified. The distribution pattern of these structures in the 3 different skull types were observed. The entire blood supply of the stomatognathic system is derived from the external carotid artery, which originates from the common carotid artery, and terminates as it branches into the superficial temporal and maxillary arteries. The other main branches of the common carotid artery are the occipital, cranial laryngeal, ascending pharyngeal, lingual, facial, caudal auricular, and parotid arteries. Blood drainage was achieved via the external jugular vein, which originates from the union of the linguofacial and maxillary veins. Brachycephalic dogs had blood vessels with greater sinuosity (more deviations) when compared to dolichocephalic and mesocephalic dogs. The stomatognathic system innervation of brachycephalic skull dogs showed differences in the distribution of the facial nerve in the labial commissure and maxillary and mandibular regions. The cranial conformation of dogs demonstrated anatomical variations of the vascular and neural structures of the stomatognathic system. This data may be useful to improve clinical practice, surgical planning, and interpretation of clinical dysfunctions.