bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Primary Myelodysplastic Syndromes of Dogs: A Report of 12 Cases
Authors: Weiss Douglas J. , Smith Stephanie A.
Published: March 2010

Clinical bone marrow specimens submitted to the University of Minnesota's Veterinary Teaching Hospital Cytology Service over a 3‐year period were evaluated for the presence of myelodysplastic features. Of 220 bone marrow specimens examined, 30 contained dysplastic features. Twenty‐seven of these dogs were evaluated further. Twelve were categorized as primary myelodysplastic syndromes, and 15 were categorized as secondary myelodysplastic syndromes. Of the primary myelodysplastic syndromes, 4 were subcategorized as refractory anemia and 8 were categorized as myelodysplasia. Primary refractory anemia was characterized by nonregenerative anemia without leukopenia or thrombocytopenia and with prolonged survival. Primary myelodysplasia was characterized by pancytopenia, greater than 5% myeloblasts in bone marrow, dysplastic features in all bone marrow cell lines, and short survival time. Results of this study indicate that differentiating primary refractory anemia from primary myelodysplasia has both therapeutic and prognostic significance. Dogs with primary refractory anemia tend to have prolonged survival and respond to erythropoietin treatment, whereas dogs with primary myelodysplasia have short survival and do not respond to standard treatments.
Plasma Homocysteine, B Vitamins, and Amino Acid Concentrations in Cats with Cardiomyopathy and Arterial Thromboembolism
Authors: McMichael M.A. , Freeman L.M. , Selhub J. , Rozanski E.A. , Brown D.J. , Nadeau MR. , Rush J.E.
Published: March 2010

Arterial thromboembolism (ATE) is a common complication of cats with cardiomyopathy (CM), but little is known about the pathophysiology of ATE. In people, high plasma concentrations of homocysteine and low B vitamin concentrations are risk factors for peripheral vascular disease. In addition, low plasma arginine concentrations have been linked to endothelial dysfunction. The purpose of this study was to compare concentrations of homocysteine, B vitamins, and amino acids in plasma of normal cats to those of cats with CM and ATE. Plasma concentrations of homocysteine, vitamin B6, vitamin B12, folate, and amino acids were measured in 29 healthy cats, 27 cats with CM alone, and 28 cats with both CM and ATE. No differences were found between groups in homocysteine or folate. Mean vitamin B12 concentration (mean ± standard deviation) was lower in cats with ATE (866 ± 367 pg/mL) and cats with CM (939 ± 389 pg/mL) compared with healthy controls (1,650 ± 700 pg/mL; P < .001). Mean vitamin B6 concentration was lower in cats with ATE (3,247 ± 1,215 pmol/mL) and cats with CM (3,200 ± 906 pmol/mL) compared with healthy control animals (4,380 ± 1,302 pmol/mL; P= .005). Plasma arginine concentrations were lower in cats with ATE (75 ± 33 nmol/mL) compared with cats with CM (106 ± 25 nmol/mL) and healthy control animals (96 ± 25 nmol/ mL; P < .001). Vitamin B12 concentration was significantly correlated with left atrial size. We interpret the results of this study to suggest that vitamin B12 and arginine may play a role in CM and ATE of cats.
Clinical, Echocardiographic, and Neurohormonal Effects of a Sodium‐Restricted Diet in Dogs with Heart Failure
Authors: Rush John E. , Freeman Lisa M. , Brown Donald J. , Brewer Barbara P. , Ross James N. , Markwell Peter J.
Published: March 2010

The use of low‐sodium diets in dogs with heart failure is common practice, but randomized, double‐blind studies have not been conducted to examine the benefits or problems with this approach. The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of a low‐sodium diet on clinical, echocardiographic, and neurohormonal parameters in dogs with heart failure. Dogs with stable chronic heart failure were fed exclusively a low‐sodium (LS) and a moderate‐sodium (MS) diet for 4 weeks each in a randomized, double‐blind, crossover design. At days 0, 28, and 56, echocardiography and thoracic radiography were performed, and blood was analyzed for electrolytes and neurohormones. Fourteen dogs completed the study (9 with chronic valvular disease and 5 with dilated cardiomyopathy). Electrolyte abnormalities were common during the study, and serum sodium and chloride concentrations decreased significantly on the LS diet. Neurohormones did not change significantly between diet groups. Maximum left atrial (P= .05) and standard left atrial (P= .09) size decreased on the LS diet. For dogs with chronic valvular disease, vertebral heart score (P= .05), left ventricular internal dimension in diastole (P= .006) and systole (P= .02), standard left atrial dimension (P = .03), maximum left atrial dimension (P= .02), end‐diastolic volume index (P= .02), and end‐systolic volume index (P= .04) decreased significantly on the LS diet compared to the MS diet. Although analysis of these data suggests some benefits of a low‐sodium diet, future studies with improved study design are needed to further evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of sodium restriction in dogs with heart failure.
Cats Surviving Natural Infection withCytauxzoon felis: 18 Cases (1997–1998)
Authors: Meinkoth James , Kocan A. Alan , Whitworth Lisa , Murphy George , Fox J. Carl , Woods J. Paul
Published: March 2010

Eighteen cats surviving natural infection withCytauxzoon feliswere identified. All cats came from a limited geographic area in northwestern Arkansas and northeastern Oklahoma. Clinical signs in most cats were similar to those described for cytauxzoonosis; however, 4 cats were asymptomatic. All cases were initially diagnosed by microscopic identification of signet ring‐shaped piroplasms in erythrocytes of peripheral blood smears. Four of 4 cats tested had detectable serum antibodies toC felis. Four different cats were positive by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Partial sequencing of the PCR product from 1 cat revealed >99% homology with the reported sequence ofC felis. Repeated examination of blood smears from 12 cats revealed that the erythroparasitemia was generally persistent for the duration of follow‐up (3–154 days). Survival did not seem dependent on treatment, as only 1 cat was treated with a drug with potential antiprotozoal activity (imidocarb dipropionate), and 4 cats received no treatment. The findings of this study may indicate the existence of a less virulent strain ofC felis.
Demonstration of Thiopurine Methyltransferase Activity in the Erythrocytes of Cats
Authors: Foster Aiden P. , Shaw Susan E. , Duley John A. , Shobowale‐Bakre El‐Monsor , Harbour David A.
Published: March 2010

Azathioprine is a purine analogue used as an immunosuppressive and immunomodulator agent in various mammals, including cats. Several adverse reactions have been reported and have limited the use of the drug in the cat. Adverse reactions to azathioprine in humans have been correlated with reduced activity of thiopurine methyltransferase (TPMT) in erythrocytes. The purpose of this preliminary study was to determine if cats have TPMT activity in their erythrocytes and to compare the values obtained with the normal range for humans and the normal range for dogs in a preliminary report. Activity of the enzyme was measured in blood samples drawn from 41 cats. Blood also was taken from 5 dogs. The mean erythrocyte TPMT activity in the cats was 2.4 ± 0.4 nmol (range, 1.2–3.9 nmol) per hour per milliliter of red blood cells (U/mL RBC) or 2–8 nmol per hour per gram of hemoglobin (U/g Hb). This range was far lower than the normal human range (8–15 U/mL RBC; 16–33 U/g Hb) and was of monopolar distribution. This observation apparently precludes any diagnostic purpose in assaying erythrocyte TPMT in this species. Erythrocyte TPMT activity in the 5 dogs ranged from 5.5 to 13.1 U/mL RBC (11–27 U/g Hb), which was comparable with normal and carrier ranges for humans, but proof of TPMT genetic polymorphism in either species will require genotyping studies.
Evaluation of the Bromosulfophthalein 30‐Minute Retention Test for the Diagnosis of Hepatic Disease in Dogs
Authors: Flatland Bente , Leib Michael S. , Warnick Lorin D. , Sponenberg D. Phillip
Published: March 2010

The purpose of this study was to evaluate efficacy of bromosulfophthalein (BSP) retention testing in dogs with and without histopathologically confirmed hepatobiliary disease. Medical records of 150 dogs with hepatobiliary disease having both a BSP test and hepatic biopsy were retrieved. Histopathologic slides of liver tissue were reviewed, and dogs were classified according to 1 of 11 histopathologic categories. Twenty‐five clinically normal random‐source dogs were used as controls for hepatic biopsy and BSP testing. No dogs suffered adverse effects due to BSP administration. BSP retention was significantly (P< .05) higher in hospitalized (13.9%) than control (3.2%) dogs, but the test could not distinguish between hospitalized dogs with different types of hepatobiliary disease. Sensitivity, specificity, and predictive values of BSP retention as a test for hepatic disease were calculated. Using 5.0% as a cutoff for normal BSP retention resulted in a specificity of 88% and a sensitivity of 76%. Using 6.0% as a cutoff for normal BSP retention resulted in a specificity of 100% and a sensitivity of 70%. Dogs of this study having BSP retention of >6% had at least an 86% chance of having an abnormal liver. We concluded that continued use of BSP retention testing is warranted as a noninvasive diagnostic test for liver disease in dogs.
Identification of Matrix Metalloproteinases in Canine Cutaneous Mast Cell Tumors
Authors: Leibman Nicole F. , Lana Susan E. , Hansen Rodney A. , Powers Barbara E. , Fettman Martin J. , Withrow Stephen J. , Ogilvie Gregory K.
Published: March 2010

Presence of matrix metalloproteinases has been associated with tumor invasion and metastasis in human neoplasia. The presence of matrix metalloproteinase 2 and matrix metalloproteinase 9 was determined in canine mast cell tumor tissue and normal stromal tissue from 24 dogs with spontaneously occurring cutaneous mast cell tumors. Seventeen of the mast cell tumors were of histologic grade 2, and 7 were of histologic grade 3. Gelatin zymography and computer assisted densitometry image analysis were used to quantify matrix metalloproteinase concentration. Bands from canine tissues migrated in the same location as human proenzyme and active enzyme matrix metalloproteinase 2 and matrix metalloproteinase 9 standards. A semiquantitative value for each patient sample was obtained by comparing the optical assessment density of each unknown band to the optical density of the human standard. The presence of matrix metalloproteinase 2 and matrix metalloproteinase 9 in histologic grade 2 mast cell tumors and histologic grade 3 mast cell tumors was compared, as was presence of matrix metalloproteinases in tumor and stromal tissue. There was dramatically more proenzyme matrix metalloproteinase 9 activity in histologic grade 3 mast cell tumors when compared to grade 2 tumors (P= .03). There was also dramatically more active enzyme matrix metalloproteinase 2 and active enzyme matrix metalloproteinase 9 activity in tumor tissue compared to stromal tissue (P= .02, P < .0001). This study demonstrates that the proenzyme and active enzyme forms of matrix metalloproteinase 2 and matrix metalloproteinase 9 are present in canine mast cell tumors. This appears to be related to the degree of histologic malignancy, although histologic grade 1 tumors were not evaluated.
Prognostic Significance of Serum Alkaline Phosphatase Activity in Canine Appendicular Osteosarcoma
Authors: Garzotto Caroline K. , Berg John , Hoffmann Walter E. , Rand William M.
Published: March 2010

Sixty‐one dogs with appendicular osteosarcoma were treated with amputation and chemotherapy of cisplatin and doxorubicin. Serum samples were obtained before and after treatment for determination of total alkaline phosphatase (TALP) activity as well as the activities of the constituent bone (BALP), liver (LALP), and corticosteroid‐induced (CALP) isoenzymes. The relationship between alkaline phosphatase activities and survival was examined by Cox proportional hazards regression analysis and Kaplan‐Meier log rank analysis. Mean activity of TALP, BALP, and LALP decreased significantly after treatment (P< .001). TALP and LALP activities before treatment were significantly correlated with survival (P= .006 and .001, respectively). The correlation between BALP activity before treatment and survival approached significance (P= .054). CALP activity and TALP, BALP, and LALP activities after treatment were not significantly correlated with survival. Dogs with normal pretreatment TALP and BALP activities survived significantly longer than dogs with increased pretreatment activities (P= .001 and .003, respectively). Median survival times for dogs with normal or increased TALP activities before treatment were 12.5 and 5.5 months, respectively; and median survival times for dogs with normal or increased BALP activities before treatment were 16.6 and 9.5 months, respectively. In the design of future clinical trials involving dogs with osteosarcoma, consideration should be given to stratifying the randomization according to alkaline phosphatase activity. In addition, alkaline phosphatase activity should be a factor considered by clinicians attempting to tailor the aggressiveness of adjuvant chemotherapy to the needs of individual patients or owners.
Prevalence of Bovine Herpesvirus‐4 Infection in Cats in Central Michigan
Authors: Kruger John M. , Venta Patrick J. , Swenson Cheryl L. , Syring Rebecca , Gibbons‐Burgener Suzanne N. , Richter Marlee , Maes Roger K.
Published: March 2010

The gammaherpesvirus bovine herpesvirus‐4 (BHV‐4) has been isolated from a wide variety of animals, including lions and domestic cats. Although BHV‐4 antibodies have been detected in normal cats and cats with urinary disorders, the epidemiology and pathogenic role of BHV‐4 in cats is unknown. The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of BHV‐4 antibodies and viral nucleic acid in a population of free‐roaming cats. Plasma and peripheral blood leukocyte samples were collected from 52 male and 52 female free‐roaming cats impounded at a regional animal control facility in Central Michigan. Plasma concentrations of BHV‐4 antibodies were measured with an indirect fluorescent antibody test. Peripheral blood leukocyte DNA was isolated, and a 2‐stage polymerase chain reaction with heminested primers delineating a conserved portion of the BHV‐4 glycoprotein B gene homologue was used to amplify BHV‐4‐specific DNA sequences. BHV‐4 antibodies were detected in 38 (73%) male and 23 (44%) female cats. Seropositive cats were significantly more likely to be male than female (odds ratio = 3.22;P= .007). Cell‐associated viremia was detected in 17 (33%) male and 11 (21%) female cats. Of the 61 seropositive cats, 23 (38%) had a detectable viremia; only 5 (12%) seronegative cats had detectable viremia. Seropositive cats were significantly more likely to be viremic than sero‐negative cats (OR = 4.30;P= .009). Our results suggest that BHV‐4 infection may be more widespread in certain cat populations than previously reported. Furthermore, many cats seropositive for BHV‐4 antibodies have a concurrent cell‐associated viremia.
Serum‐Effusion Albumin Gradient in Dogs with Transudative Abdominal Effusion
Authors: Pembleton‐Corbett J.R. , Center S.A. , Schermerhorn T. , Yeager A.E. , Erb H.N.
Published: March 2010

A prospective clinical study in dogs with transudative abdominal effusions examined the clinical usefulness of the serum albumin‐effusion albumin (SA‐EA) gradient. In humans, the SA‐EA gradient facilitates classification of abdominal effusion, with a gradient ≥1.1 indicating the presence of portal hypertension. Gradient values proved useful for predicting therapeutic response to sodium restriction and diuresis in humans. Of 49 dogs evaluated, 25 had hepatobiliary disease (group 1) and 24 had other nonhepatobiliary conditions (group 2). Portal hypertension was clinically suspected in 24 of 25 dogs in group 1 and in 15 of 24 dogs in group 2. A broad range of SA‐EA gradients was found. A gradient ≥1.1 was found in 22 of 25 (88.0%) dogs with liver disease and in 14 of 24 (58.3%) dogs with other disorders. The median SA‐EA gradient was higher in group 1 than in group 2, with values of 1.4 (range, 0.7–3.1) and 1.1 (range, 0.3–2.6), respectively (P < .04). Considerable overlapping of SA‐EA gradients occurred between groups and among dogs with diverse conditions such that gradient values could not distinguish dogs with hepatobiliary disease from dogs with other conditions. The overall diagnostic accuracy of the SA‐EA gradient in predicting portal hypertension in dogs with and without hepatobiliary disease (69.4%) exceeded that of hypoalbuminemia (57.1%). These findings suggest that portal hypertension is a predominant force in formation of transudative abdominal effusion in dogs with hepatobiliary disease and in dogs with other disorders. Whether the SA‐EA gradient can be used to guide therapeutic mobilization of effusion in dogs remains to be proved.
Serum Feline Trypsin‐Like Immunoreactivity in Cats with Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency
Authors: Steiner Jörg M. , Williams David A.
Published: March 2010

Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency is thought to occur rarely in cats. This assumption has been made based on the lack of a specific test for this disease in the cat. Clinical data from the 1st 20 cats with serum feline trypsin‐like immunoreactivity (fTLI) concentrations ≥μg/L are presented. In 17 of these 20 cats compelling evidence for a diagnosis of exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI) was present and in the remaining 3 supportive evidence for a diagnosis of EPI was available. The conclusion was made that serum fTLI concentration is a specific test for EPI in the cat.
Pathogenesis of Single Right Coronary Artery and Pulmonic Stenosis in English Bulldogs
Authors: Buchanan James W.
Published: March 2010

English Bulldogs are the most common breed to have pulmonic stenosis. Previous studies showed that this congenital heart abnormality in Bulldogs frequently is caused by a circumpulmonary left coronary artery originating from a single right coronary artery. Fetal anasarca also occurs often in Bulldogs and might represent congestive heart failure, but the cause is unknown. To determine if fetal anasarca is associated with a coronary anomaly and pulmonic stenosis, major coronary arteries were studied in 6 bulldog puppies with fetal anasarca. Five of the puppies had normal coronary arteries, and this led to the conclusion that fetal anasarca usually is not associated with major coronary abnormalities or pulmonic stenosis. The 6th puppy had single right coronary artery with circumpulmonary left coronary artery and moderate subvalvular pulmonic stenosis. Serial section histology suggests that the underlying cause of this syndrome is malformation of the left aortic sinus (of Valsalva) and inversion of the proximal segment of the left main coronary artery.
A Review of Coronavirus Infection in the Central Nervous System of Cats and Mice
Authors: Foley Janet E. , Leutenegger Christian
Published: March 2010

Feline infectious peritonitis (FIP) is a common cause of death in cats. Management of this disease has been hampered by difficulties identifying the infection and determining the immunological status of affected cats and by high variability in the clinical, pathological, and immunological characteristics of affected cats. Neurological FIP, which is much more homogeneous than systemic effusive or noneffusive FIP, appears to be a good model for establishing the basic features of FIP immunopathogenesis. Very little information is available about the immunopathogenesis of neurologic FIP, and it is reasonable to use research from the well‐characterized mouse hepatitis virus (MHV) immune‐mediated encephalitis system, as a template for FIP investigation, and to contrast findings from the MHV model with those of FIP. It is expected that the immunopathogenic mechanisms will have important similarities. Such comparative research may lead to better understanding of FIP immunopathogenesis and rational prospects for management of this frustrating disease.
Serologic and Molecular Evidence of Coinfection with Multiple Vector‐Borne Pathogens in Dogs from Thailand
Authors: Suksawat Jiraporn , Xuejie Yu , Hancock Susan I. , Hegarty Barbara C. , Nilkumhang Parnchitt , Breitschwerdt Edward B.
Published: March 2010

Forty‐nine dogs from Thailand were evaluated for serologic evidence of exposure or polymerase chain reaction (PCR) evidenceof infection with vectorborne pathogens, includingEhrlichiasp. (Ehrlichia canis, Ehrlichia chaffeensis, Ehrlichia equi, and Ehr‐lichia risticii), Bartonella vinsoniisubsp.berkhoffi(Bvb), spotted fever group (SFG) rickettsiae(Rickettsia rickettsii),Typhus group (TG) rickettsiae(Rickettsia Canada, Rickettsia prowazekii,andRickettsia typhi),andBabesiasp.(Babesia canisandBabesia gibsonii). All study dogs had at least 1 of 3 entry criteria: fever, anemia, or thrombocytopenia. By immunofluorescence antibody (IFA) testing, seroreactivity was most prevalent toE chaffeensis(74%) andE canis(71%) antigens, followed byE equi(58%), Bvb (38%),E risticii(38%),R prowazekii(24%),B canis(20%),R rickettsii(12%),R Canada(4%), andB gibsonii(4%) antigens. There was 100% concordance betweenE canisIFA and Western blot immunoassay (WI) for 35 of 35 samples; 2 samples were IFA and WI reactive only toE equiantigens. By PCR amplification, 10 dogs were found to be infected withE canis, 5 withEhrlichia platys, and 3 withB canis. Sequencing of PCR products was undertaken to compareEhrlichiastrains from Thailand to strains originating from the United States. Partial DNA sequence analysis confirmed infection withE canisandE platys, with identical 16S rRNA sequence alignment toE canis(U26740) and toE platys(M83801), as reported in GenBank. PartialE canisP28.1 and P28.2 amino acid sequences from Thai dogs were divergent from analogous sequences derived from North AmericanE canis(AF082744) strains, suggesting that the Thai dogs were infected with a geographically distinct strain ofE caniscompared to North American strains. The results of this study indicate that dogs in Thailand have substantial exposure to vectorborne diseases and that coinfection with these pathogens may be common.
Evaluation of Esophageal Transit of Tablets and Capsules in 30 Cats
Authors: Westfall Donald S. , Twedt David C. , Steyn Phillip F. , Oberhauser Elizabeth B. , VanCleave Joseph W.
Published: March 2010

We have reported tablet‐induced focal esophagitis and esophageal stricture formation in cats. The proposed mechanism is thought to be abnormal esophageal tablet retention resulting in focal esophagitis with subsequent stricture formation. The objective of this study was to evaluate the passage of tablets and capsules when given alone (dry swallow) and when followed by a water bolus (wet swallow) to determine if this could, in part, explain the esophageal stricture formation we have observed in cats. Fluoroscopy was used to evaluate tablet or capsule passage after administration. The percentage of dry tablet swallows that successfully passed into the stomach was 0.0% at 30 and 60 seconds, 6.7% at 90 seconds, 13.3% at 120 seconds, 26.7% at 180 and 240 seconds, and 36.7% at 300 seconds. Wet tablet swallows successfully passed 90.0% of the time at 30 seconds, 93.3% of the time at 60 seconds, and 100.0% of the time thereafter. The percentage of dry capsule swallows that successfully passed was 16.7% at each time interval. Wet capsule swallows successfully passed 96.7% of the time at 30 seconds and 100% of the time thereafter. For each time interval, wet swallows achieved significantly greater percentage passage into the stomach when compared to dry swallows (P < .05). This study shows that tablets or capsules given by dry swallow have prolonged retention in the esophagus compared to those given by wet swallow. On the basis of this study, we recommend the routine administration of a water bolus to cats receiving tablets or capsules PO to facilitate esophageal clearance. This practice may help prevent medication‐associated esophagitis or stricture formation.
Iron Deficiency in Stabled Dutch Warmblood Foals
Authors: Brommer H. , van Oldruitenborgh‐Oosterbaan Marianne M. Sloet
Published: March 2010

Forty‐three Dutch Warmblood foals were divided at random into 3 rearing groups immediately after birth: a box‐rest group, a box‐rest with exercise group, and a pasture group. All stabled foals (box‐rest and exercise groups) were fed freshly cut grass harvested from the same pastures on which the pasture group foals were grazing. Blood samples were obtained monthly for CBC and biochemical analyses. At 1–3 months of age, the foals at pasture were active but the foals in the box‐rest and exercise groups were listless. Mean hemoglobin concentrations, PCVs, blood iron concentrations, and saturation of total iron binding capacity were significantly lower (P< .05) in the box‐rest group (11.3 ± 1.2 g/dL, 33 ± 3%, 123 ± 67 μg/dL, and 18 ± 9%) and the exercise group (11.6 ± 1.5 g/dL, 34 ± 4%, 101 ± 61 μg/dL, and 15 ± 10%) compared with the pasture group (14.0 ± 0.8 g/dL, 42 ± 3%, 212 ± 67 μg/dL, and 32 ± 10%). Oral supplementation of iron to all foals resulted in significant increases in the values of these variables in the box‐rest group and exercise group at 4–5 months of age, and the stabled foals were as active as the foals at pasture. In the pasture group, no significant changes occurred. Management practices clearly influence the iron state in young growing foals from 1 to 3 months of age, and although not a frequent cause of anemia in the horse, an absolute deficit of body iron may occur in stabled foals fed freshly cut grass.
Breed Risk of Pyometra in Insured Dogs in Sweden
Authors: Egenvall Agneta , Hagman Ragnvi , Bonnett Brenda N. , Hedhammar Ake , Olson Pekka , Lagerstedt Anne‐Sofie
Published: March 2010

An animal insurance database containing data on over 200,000 dogs was used to study the occurrence of pyometra with respect to breed and age during 1995 and 1996 in Swedish bitches <10 years of age. A total of 1,803 females in 1995 and 1,754 females in 1996 had claims submitted because of pyometra. Thirty breeds with at least 800 bitches insured each year were studied using univariate and multivariate methods. The crude 12‐month risk of pyometra for females <10 years of age was 2.0% (95% confidence interval = 1.9‐2.1%) in 1995 and 1.9% (1.8‐2.0%) in 1996. The occurrence of pyometra differed with age, breed, and geographic location. The risk of developing pyometra was increased (identified using multivariate models) in rough Collies, Rottweilers, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, Golden Retrievers, Bernese Mountain Dogs, and English Cocker Spaniels compared with baseline (all other breeds, including mixed breed dogs). Breeds with a low risk of developing the disease were Drevers, German Shepherd Dogs, Miniature Dachshunds, Dachshunds (normal size), and Swedish Hounds. Survival rates indicate that on average 23–24% of the bitches in the databases will have experienced pyometra by 10 years of age. In the studied breeds, this proportion ranged between 10 and 54%. Pyometra is a clinically relevant problem in intact bitches, and differences related to breed and age should be taken into account in studies of this disease.
Acute Cardiovascular Effects of Diltiazem in Anesthetized Dogs with Induced Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Miyamoto Mutsumi , Nishijima Yoshinori , Nakayama Tomohiro , Hamlin Robert L.
Published: March 2010

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is one of the most important arrhythmias of dogs. In a previous study, we determined the dosage of intravenously administered diltiazem necessary to reduce ventricular response (VR), cardiac output (CO), and mean systemic arterial pressure (PAo) to values similar to those observed during sinus rhythm (SR) before induction of AF. The present study was conducted to establish an acute, effective dosage of diltiazem given PO. AF was produced by rapid atrial pacing in healthy, anesthetized Beagle Hounds. Dogs were instrumented to record hemodynamic and electrophysiological parameters. Four dogs were given 2.5 mg/kg diltiazem, and another 4 dogs were given 5 mg/kg diltiazem by stomach tube, whereas 4 other dogs received vehicle in equivalent volumes. Plasma concentrations of diltiazem were measured at various intervals after dosing. A dosage of 5 mg/kg diltiazem produced plasma concentrations of 32–100 ng/mL 3 hours after administration, concentrations within the published effective range for dogs with naturally occurring AF. Between 2 and 3 hours after this dosage, the rate pressure product (RPP) and an index of left ventricular efficiency returned to values similar to those observed during SR. Thus, we believe that diltiazem at anorally administered dosages of 5 mg/kg should be considered to produce therapeutic blood concentrations and favorable hemodynamic effects in dogs with naturally occurring AF. These data must be extrapolated with caution to dogs with long‐standing AF produced by natural causes.
Dual‐Chamber Pacemaker Implantation via the Cephalic Vein in Healthy Equids
Authors: van Loon G. , Fonteyne W. , Rottiers H. , Tavernier R. , Jordaens L. , D'Hont L. , Colpaert R. , de Clercq T. , Deprez P.
Published: March 2010

The purpose of the present study was to develop a feasible and safe technique for dual‐chamber pacemaker implantation in healthy horses. Implantation was performed in a standing, tranquilized horse and in ponies. Atrial and ventricular leads were transvenously inserted through the cephalic vein, and a subcutaneous pacemaker pocket was created between the lateral pectoral groove and themanubrium sterniin 6 equids. Positioning of each lead was guided by echocardiography and by measuring the electrical characteristics of the lead. The implantation procedure lasted about 4 hours in each animal and was well tolerated. In all animals, dualchamber pacemaker function was obtained, and these results remained good throughout the follow‐up period. At the time of implantation, atrial and ventricular sensing were between 2.1 and 7.2 mV and 7.8 and 16.8 mV, respectively, and atrial and ventricular pacing thresholds at 0.5 millisecond varied from 0.5 to 0.7 V and from 0.3 to 1.0 V, respectively. Six months after the implantation, sensing values varied from 2 to 10 mV for the atrial lead and from 2 to 16 mV for the ventricular lead, while pacing thresholds at 0.5 millisecond varied from less than 0.5 to 2.5 V for the right atrium and from less than 0.5 to 5.0 V for the right ventricle. Atrial lead dislodgment occurred in 2 animals, requiring insertion of a new lead. Ventricular lead dislodgment was not observed.
Glycogen Branching Enzyme Deficiency in Quarter Horse Foals
Authors: Valberg Stephanie J. , Ward Tara L. , Rush Bonnie , Kinde Hailu , Hiraragi Hajime , Nahey David , Fyfe John , Mickelson James R.
Published: March 2010

Seven related Quarter Horse foals that died by 7 weeks of age were examined for glycogen branching enzyme (GBE) deficiency. Clinical signs varied from stillbirth, transient flexural limb deformities, seizures, and respiratory or cardiac failure to persistent recumbency. Leukopenia (5 of 5 foals) as well as high serum creatine kinase (CK; 5 of 5), aspartate transaminase (AST; 4 of 4), and gamma glutamyl transferase (GGT; 5 of 5) activities were present in most foals, and intermittent hypoglycemia was present in 2 foals. Gross postmortem lesions were minor, except for pulmonary edema in 2 foals. Muscle, heart, or liver samples from the foals contained abnormal periodic acid Schiff's (PAS)‐positive globular or crystalline intracellular inclusions in amounts proportional to the foal's age at death. Accumulation of an unbranched polysaccharide in tissues was suggested by a shift in the iodine absorption spectra of polysaccharide isolated from the liver and muscle of affected foals. Skeletal muscle total polysaccharide concentrations were reduced by 30%, but liver and cardiac muscle glycogen concentrations were normal. Several glycolytic enzyme activities were normal, whereas GBE activity was virtually absent in cardiac and skeletal muscle, as well as in liver and peripheral blood cells of affected foals. GBE activities in peripheral blood cells of dams of affected foals and several of their half‐siblings or full siblings were ∼50% of controls. GBE protein in liver determined by Western blot was markedly reduced to absent in affected foals, and in a half‐sibling of an affected foal, it was approximately one‐half the amount of normal controls. Pedigree analysis also supported an autosomal recessive mode of inheritance. The affected foals have at least 2,600 half‐siblings. Consequently, GBE deficiency may be a common cause of neonatal mortality in Quarter Horses that is obscured by the variety of clinical signs that resemble other equine neonatal diseases.
Serum Zinc, Chromium, and Iron Concentrations in Dogs with Lymphoma and Osteosarcoma
Authors: Kazmierski Kathy J. , Ogilvie Gregory K. , Fettman Martin J. , Lana Susan E. , Walton Judy A. , Hansen Rod A. , Richardson Kristi L. , Hamar Dwayne W. , Bedwell Cathy L. , Andrews Gordon , Chavey Sue
Published: March 2010

We compared serum concentrations of zinc, chromium, and iron in dogs with cancer to those of normal dogs. Dogs with lymphoma (n = 50) and osteosarcoma (n = 52) were evaluated. Dogs with lymphoma had significantly lower (P= .0028) mean serum zinc concentrations (mean ± SD; 1.0 ± 0.3 mg/L) when compared to normal dogs (1.2 ± 0.4 mg/L). Dogs with osteosarcoma also had lower mean serum zinc concentrations (1.1 ± 0.4 mg/L), but this difference was not significant (P= .075). Serum chromium concentrations were significantly lower in dogs with lymphoma (2.6 ± 2.6 μg/L,P= .0007) and osteosarcoma (2.4 ± 3.1 μg/L,P= .0001) compared to normal dogs (4.7 ± 2.8 μg/L). Serum iron concentrations and total iron‐binding capacity were significantly lower in dogs with lymphoma (110.8 ± 56.7 μg/dL,P< .0001, and 236.6 ± 45.6 μg/dL,P< .0001, respectively) and osteosarcoma (99.6 ± 49.3 μg/dL,P< .0001, and 245.0 ± 43.8 μg/dL,P= .0011, respectively) when compared to normal dogs (175.1 ± 56.7 μg/dL and 277.1 ± 47.4 μg/dL). Mean ferritin concentration was significantly higher in dogs with lymphoma (1291.7 ± 63.0 μg/L) than in normal dogs (805.8 ± 291.1 μg/L,P< .0001) and dogs with osteosarcoma (826.5 ± 309.2 μg/L,P< .0001). Further investigation is needed to explore the clinical significance of these mineral abnormalities in dogs with cancer.
Natural History of Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy and Aortic Thromboembolism in a Family of Domestic Shorthair Cats
Authors: Baty Catherine J. , Malarkey David E. , Atkins Clarke E. , DeFrancesco Teresa C. , Sidley Jennifer , Keene Bruce W.
Published: March 2010

A feline domestic shorthair queen and her 3 offspring were all diagnosed with asymptomatic hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). The family has been followed for 13 years, and 3 cats have died of aortic thromboembolism (ATE). This communication documents the long‐term progression of HCM in these cats that presented with mild left ventricular hypertrophy and hyperdynamic systolic ventricular function, developed progressive left atrial enlargement, and eventually resulted in hypodynamic left ventricular systolic function with relative left ventricular chamber dilation at the time of ATE.
Food Sensitivity in Cats with Chronic Idiopathic Gastrointestinal Problems
Authors: Guilford W. Grant , Jones Boyd R. , Markwell Peter J. , Arthur Donald G. , Collett Mark G. , Harte John G.
Published: March 2010

The objectives of this study were to investigate the prevalence of food sensitivity in cats with chronic idiopathic gastrointestinal problems, to identify the food ingredients responsible, and to characterize the clinical features. Seventy cats that presented for chronic gastrointestinal signs underwent diagnostic investigation. Fifty‐five cats had idiopathic problems and were entered into the study. Diagnosis of food sensitivity was made by dietary elimination‐challenge studies by using commercial selected‐protein diets as the elimination diet. Sixteen (29%) of the 55 cats with chronic idiopathic gastrointestinal problems were diagnosed as food sensitive. The clinical signs of another 11 cats (20%) resolved on the elimination diet but did not recur after challenge with their previous diet. The foods or food ingredients responsible for the clinical signs were dietary staples. Fifty percent of affected cats were sensitive to more than 1 food ingredient. The clinical feature most suggestive of food sensitivity was concurrent occurrence of gastrointestinal and dermatological signs. Weight loss occurred in 11 of the affected cats, and large‐bowel diarrhea was more common than small‐bowel diarrhea. Assay of serum antigen‐specific immunoglobulin E (IgE) had limited value as a screening test, and gastroscopic food sensitivity testing was not helpful. In conclusion, adverse reactions to dietary staples were common in this population of cats, and they responded well to selected‐protein diets. Diagnosis requires dietary elimination‐challenge trials and cannot be made on the basis of clinical signs, routine clinicopathological data, serum antigen‐specific IgE assay, gastroscopic food sensitivity testing, or gastrointestinal biopsy.
Prevalence of Enteric Zoonotic Agents in Cats less than 1 Year Old in Central New York State
Authors: Spain C. Victor , Scarlett Janet M. , Wade Susan E. , McDonough Patrick
Published: March 2010

A prevalence study of several enteric zoonotic bacterial and parasitic infections was conducted in 263 fecal samples from cats that were between 1 and 12 months old, and that were in humane shelters (n = 149) or were presented to primary‐care veterinarians (n = 114). Of these samples, 2 (0.8%) were positive forCampylobacter, 2 (0.8%) were positive forSalmonella, and 10 (3.8%) were positive forCryptosporidium, confirming that these zoonotic agents are relatively rare in cats.Toxocara cati(33.0%) andGiardia(7.3%) were found more commonly. At least 1 zoonotic agent was detected in 105 samples (40.7%). Our results suggest that clinical signs such as diarrhea are not reliable predictors of whether a cat is actively shedding enteric organisms. Therefore, the decision to test a newly adopted cat should be based on the potential risks to the client rather than on the cat's clinical presentation. The high prevalence ofT. caticonfirms that comprehensive testing or treatment for ascarids is warranted in newly adopted kittens.
Effect of Amlodipine on Echocardiographic Variables in Cats with Systemic Hypertension
Authors: Snyder Patti S. , Sadek Deena , Jones Galin L.
Published: March 2010

Left ventricular hypertrophy signals a poor prognosis in hypertensive humans. Cardiac disease is common in cats with systemic hypertension. The aims of this study were to characterize the echocardiographic findings of cats with systemic hypertension and to determine if reducing the degree of hypertension is associated with resolution of cardiac hypertrophy. Echocardiographic examinations were performed on 19 cats with naturally occurring systemic hypertension. Fourteen of these cats were subsequently studied after a minimum of 3 months of treatment with the antihypertensive agent amlodipine. Hypertensive cats had a significantly thicker interventricular septum in both systole and diastole, thicker left ventricular free wall in both systole and diastole, and larger left atrium compared to the published normal values and 74% (14/19) of the cats met criteria for left ventricular hypertrophy (diastolic septal or free‐wall thickness > 0.60 cm). Systolic blood pressure was lower after treatment (217 ± 25 mm Hg, range: 180–275 mm Hg; and 142 ± 27 mm Hg, range: 90–200 mm Hg). No difference was found in any of the echocardiographic measurements between the untreated and treated cats, although more cats had ventricular hypertrophy before treatment (11/14) than after initiating amlodipine (6/14;P= .006). Ventricular hypertrophy is common in hypertensive cats and may resolve after the initiation of amlodipine.
Feline Vaccine‐Associated Sarcomas
Authors: McEntee Margaret C. , Page Rodney L.
Published: March 2010

Feline vaccine‐associated sarcomas have presented many challenges. Initially, the etiopathogenesis and biological behavior of these tumors had to be characterized, and strategies implemented to move tumors away from problematic sites. Next, diagnostic and treatment recommendations evolved as the biologic behavior of vaccine‐associated sarcomas forced early and aggressive intervention. Current therapeutic strategies are expensive, at times debilitating, and frequently fail to effect tumor control. This review summarizes the known history, epidemiology, etiology, and clinical management of vaccine‐associated sarcomas after a decade of work. The next challenges must be to find more practical and effective solutions, and to eliminate the cause of vaccine‐associated sarcomas.
Retrospective Study of Orthovoltage Radiation Therapy for Nasal Tumors in 42 Dogs
Authors: Northrup Nicole C. , Etue Sheila M. , Ruslander David M. , Rassnick Kenneth M. , Hutto David L. , Bengtson Amy , Rand William , Moore Antony S.
Published: March 2010

Megavoltage radiation therapy currently is the standard of care for dogs with nasal tumors. Some studies report that surgery and adjunctive orthovoltage radiation therapy result in longer control of these tumors than does megavoltage radiation therapy alone. This study reports less effective control of nasal tumors in dogs treated with surgery and orthovoltage radiation than previously observed, supporting the superiority of megavoltage radiation therapy for these tumors. In addition, this study suggests 2 new prognostic indicators for dogs with nasal tumors and describes toxicity associated with surgery and orthovoltage therapy. Forty‐two dogs with nasal tumors were treated with surgical cytoreduction and 48 Gy orthovoltage radiation therapy administered in twelve 4‐Gy fractions. Median survival was 7.4 months. One‐ and 2‐year survival rates were 37% and 17%, respectively. Dogs with facial deformity had shorter survival than those without deformity (P= .005). Dogs with resolution of clinical signs after treatment had longer survival than those with chronic nasal signs (P= .0001). Acute radiation toxicity was moderate to severe for skin and eye and negligible for oral mucosa. Toxicity healed within 1 month after radiation therapy. Late toxicity was mild, but 70% of evaluable dogs experienced persistent ocular signs. Only 39% of dogs achieved a disease‐free period.
Muscular Dystrophy in female Dogs
Authors: Shelton G. Diane , Liu Ling A. , Guo Ling T. , Smith Gail K. , Christiansen Jeffrey S. , Thomas William B. , Smith Mary O. , Kline Karen L. , March Philip A. , Flegel Thomas , Engvall Eva
Published: March 2010

The most common form of muscular dystrophy in dogs and humans is caused by mutations in the dystrophin gene. The dystrophin gene is located on the X chromosome, and, therefore, disease‐causing mutations in dystrophin occur most often in males. Therefore, females with dystrophin deficiency or other forms of muscular dystrophy may be undiagnosed or misdiagnosed. Immunohisto‐chemistry was used to analyze dystrophin and a number of other muscle proteins associated with muscular dystrophy in humans, including sarcoglycans and laminin α2, in muscle biopsy specimens from 5 female dogs with pathologic changes consistent with muscular dystrophy. The female dogs were presented with a variety of clinical signs including generalized weakness, muscle wasting, tremors, exercise intolerance, gait abnormalities, and limb deformity. Serum creatine kinase activity was variably high. One dog had no detectable dystrophin in the muscle; another was mosaic, with some fibers normal and others partly dystrophin‐deficient. A 3rd dog had normal dystrophin but no detectable laminin α2. Two dogs could not be classified. This study demonstrates the occurrence of dystrophin‐ and laminin α2‐associated muscular dystrophy and the difficulty in clinical diagnosis of these disorders in female dogs.
Cellular Proliferation in Tumors: A Review of Methods, Interpretation, and Clinical Applications
Authors: Madewell Bruce R.
Published: March 2010

Cellular proliferation with altered control is one of the 1st characteristics of a neoplastic cell population. Although tumor growth reflects both tumor cell replication and cell loss (opposing growth and antigrowth factors), most studies published in veterinary literature used immunohistochemistry (proliferating cell nuclear antigen [PCNA]; Ki‐67 [MIB‐1]) or staining for argyrophilic nucleolar organizer regions (AgNORs) to measure proliferation. These studies have appeared in the veterinary literature for more than a decade, describing associations between proliferation indices and histologic grade, biological behavior, and clinical outcome for some tumor types but no clinically relevant associations for other tumors. The results of these studies are summarized here. Methods for evaluation of the numerous regulatory proteins that direct the cell throughout its cycle are now available and should allow more precise identification of cellular aberrations in cancer.
Interrelations of Organism Prevalence, Specimen Collection Method, and Host Age, Sex, and Breed among 8,354 Canine Urinary Tract Infections (1969–1995)
Authors: Ling Gerald V. , Norris Carol R. , Franti Charles E. , Eisele Pamela H. , Johnson Deedra L. , Ruby Annette L. , Jang Spencer S.
Published: March 2010

Selected information was compiled from canine urinalyses and urine cultures conducted between January 1969 and December 1995. Eight thousand three hundred fifty‐four microbial isolates (bacteria and fungi) included 4,873 isolates from females and 3,481 from males. Ten bacterial genera accounted for 96.3% of the urinary isolates, includingEscherichia coli(44.1%),Staphy‐lococcusspp. (11.6%),Proteusspp. (9.3%),Klebsiellaspp. (9.1%),Enterococcusspp. (8.0%), andStreptococcusspp. (5.4%) as the 6 most common isolates in both genders of dogs. Among these 6 genera, female dogs were generally predisposed over males, although males had more urinary tract infections (UTIs) caused byKlebsiellaspp. Distributions of ages at UTI diagnosis tended to be similar between genders. Infection with a single microbial species was responsible for >72% of UTIs in both genders. Among females, 40 breeds and a mixed‐breed group represented 90.2% of all positive urine cultures, 88.4% of the individual dogs with UTIs, and 88.2% of the microbial isolations. Among males, these same 41 breed groups represented 87.9% of all positive urine cultures, 87.6% of the individual dogs, and 88.2% of the microbial isolations.