bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adjuvant Immunotherapy of Feline Fibrosarcoma with Recombinant Feline Interferon‐ω
Authors: Hampel Verena , Schwarz Bianca , Kempf Christine , Köstlin Roberto , Schillinger Ulrike , Küchenhoff Helmut , Fenske Nora , Brill Thomas , Hirschberger Johannes
Published: March 2010

Background: Recombinant feline interferon‐ω (rFeIFN‐ω) was tested as a treatment option for cats with fibrosarcoma to assess safety and feasibility.

Hypothesis: Treatment with rFeIFN‐ω in cats with fibrosarcoma is safe and feasible.

Animals: Twenty domestic cats.

Methods: In an open‐labeled uncontrolled clinical trial 12 injections of 1 × 106U/kg rFeIFN‐ω were administered over a 5‐week period: the 1st through 4th injections were given intratumorally, and the 5th through 12th injections were administered subcutaneously at the tumor excision site. Wide surgical excision of the tumors was carried out after the 4th injection and before the 5th injection of rFeIFN‐ω. A Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events (CTCAE) analysis was conducted. Flow cytometry of fibrosarcoma cells after incubation with rFeIFN‐ω and recombinant feline interferon‐γ was performed to assess the biological effect of rFeIFN‐ω.

Results: Changes in blood cell count, increases in serum aspartate‐amino‐transferase activity, serum bilirubin concentration, serum creatinine and serum electrolyte concentrations, weight loss, anorexia, increased body temperature, and reduced general condition were observed but were mostly minor (grade 1 and 2) and self limiting. Eosinophilia (P= .025), neutropenia (P= .021), and weight loss (P< .001) were statistically correlated with rFeIFN‐ω‐treatment (analysis of parameters before treatment and after 3 injections of rFeIFN‐ω). Flow cytometry of 5 unrelated feline fibrosarcoma cell lines showed increased expression of major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I molecules (P= .026) in response to in vitro incubation with rFeIFN‐ω, whereas expression of MHC class II molecules was not affected significantly.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance: RFeIFN‐ω for the treatment of feline fibrosarcoma is safe, well tolerated, and can be easily performed in practice. To assess the efficacy of the treatment, it should be tested in a placebo‐controlled trial.
Clinical and Pharmacokinetic Characteristics of Intracavitary Administration of Pegylated Liposomal Encapsulated Doxorubicin in Dogs with Splenic Hemangiosarcoma
Authors: Sorenmo Karin , Samluk Marissa , Clifford Craig , Baez Jennifer , Barrett Jeffrey S. , Poppenga Robert , Overley Beth , Skorupski Katherine , Oberthaler Karen , Winkle Tom Van , Seller Gabriela , Shofer Frances
Published: March 2010

Background: Canine splenic hemangiosarcoma (HSA) is a fatal malignancy, and most affected dogs die within a few months of diagnosis. Most dogs present with signs from tumor rupture, resulting in hemoabdomen and intra‐abdominal dissemination. The abdomen is also the main site of disease recurrence.

Hypothesis: Intraperitoneal (IP) administration of doxorubicin will delay or prevent intra‐abdominal tumor recurrence and prolong survival in dogs with HSA.

Animals: Fourteen dogs with splenic HSA.

Methods: A prospective, unmasked, uncontrolled clinical trial. After staging of disease status and splenectomy, pegylated liposomal encapsulated doxorubicin was administered intraperitoneally (1 mg/kg body weight) every 3 weeks for 4 cycles. All dogs were monitored for recurrence of HSA. Samples of plasma and abdominal fluid were collected for measurement of doxorubicin concentration and pharmacokinetic analysis. Nonlinear mixed‐effect modeling was used to describe the pharmacokinetics of liposomal doxorubicin administered IP.

Results: All 14 dogs died, 12 because of HSA and 2 from other causes. Postmortem examination was performed on 12 dogs. All 12 dogs died because of HSA‐related causes and had hepatic metastases and hemoabdomen. The IP‐treated dogs had fewer serosal, mesenteric, and omental metastases than historical controls treated with systemic doxorubicin. Results of the postmortem examination and pharmacokinetic analysis confirmed that IP delivery of doxorubicin resulted in an effective drug concentration with a clearance comparable with that after IV delivery.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance: IP pegylated liposomal encapsulated doxorubicin administration did not prevent intra‐abdominal recurrence of HSA in dogs.
Comparison of COAP and UW‐19 Protocols for Dogs with Multicentric Lymphoma
Authors: Hosoya Kenji , Kisseberth William C. , Lord Linda K. , Alvarez Francisco J. , Lara‐Garcia Ana , Kosarek Carrie E. , London Cheryl A. , Couto C. Guillermo
Published: March 2010

Background: Various chemotherapy protocols for treating lymphoma in dogs have been published; however, comparison of protocols from different studies is difficult, especially when evaluating survival time and toxicoses.

Hypothesis: The choice of COAP (C, cyclophosphamide; O, vincristine; A, cytosine arabinoside; P, prednisone) and a modified University of Wisconsin 19‐week (UW‐19) induction protocol has no influence on overall survival times in dogs with lymphoma.

Animals: One hundred and one dogs with multicentric lymphoma.

Methods: Retrospective study (2001–2006). Dogs induced with either an 8‐week COP‐based protocol (C, cyclophosphamide; O, vincristine; and P, prednisone) with maintenance therapy (COAP group) or a 19‐week CHOP (C, cyclophosphamide; H, doxorubicin; O, vincristine; and P, prednisone) based protocol (UW‐19 group) were compared in terms of the duration of first remission, survival time, toxicoses, and cost.

Results: There were 71 dogs in the COAP group and 30 dogs in the UW‐19 group. Various protocols were used after the first relapse. The median duration of the first remission for the COAP and UW‐19 groups were 94 days (range, 6–356 days) and 174 days (28–438 days), respectively (P< .01). The median survival times for dogs in the COAP and UW‐19 groups were 309 days (6–620 days) and 275 days (70–1102+ days), respectively (P= .09). Dogs in the COAP group had a hazard ratio of 1.9 (95% CI 1.1–3.4) for death relative to the UW‐19 group (P= .03), after controlling for the confounders (World Health Organization clinical stage, age, sex, use of doxorubicin during reinduction). The severity of neutropenia and gastrointestinal toxicoses were significantly higher in the UW‐19 group than in the COAP group (P= .01 andP< .01, respectively).

Conclusion and Clinical Importance: Use of a long‐term doxorubicin‐containing sequential combination chemotherapy protocol is associated with a decreased risk of relapse and death relative to a non‐doxorubicin‐containing protocol.
Comparison of 3 Protocols for Treatment after Induction of Remission in Dogs with Lymphoma
Authors: Rassnick Kenneth M. , McEntee Margaret C. , Erb Hollis N. , Burke Blaise P. , Balkman Cheryl E. , Flory Andrea B. , Kiselow Michael A. , Autio Karoliina , Gieger Tracy L.
Published: March 2010

Background: The optimal treatment after inducing complete remission (CR) in dogs with lymphoma has not been established.

Hypothesis: After inducing CR with L‐asparaginase, vincristine, cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, prednisone (L‐CHOP); consolidation with either half‐body radiation therapy (HBRT); or lomustine (CCNU) and mechlorethamine, vincristine, procarbazine, prednisone (MOPP) would improve first remission duration compared with continuing a CHOP‐based protocol for an additional 4 months.

Animals: Dogs with stage III‐V lymphoma.

Methods: Prospective clinical trial in which dogs initially were treated with an 8‐week induction protocol that consisted of L‐CHOP. Dogs in CR after induction were then allocated to 1 of 2 consolidation arms. A chemotherapy consolidation arm consisted of 2 treatments with CCNU and 1 cycle of MOPP. A HBRT arm consisted of 2 sequential 8.0‐Gy fractions to the cranial and caudal half‐body separated by 30 days. Vincristine was given between fractions. Results of the consolidation arms also were compared with a historical group treated with the same 8‐week induction protocol followed by CHOP therapy until week 24.

Results: Overall, 67% of the dogs were in CR after 8 weeks of induction chemotherapy and were compared. Fifty‐two dogs were in the historical arm, 23 in the CCNU/MOPP arm, and 27 in the HBRT arm. No difference in first remission duration was found among groups. Median first remission duration for the historical, CCNU/MOPP, and HBRT arms were 307, 274, and 209 days, respectively (P= .28). Overall second CR rate was 82% and was not different among groups (all P > .58). Overall remission duration (P= .28) and survival time (P= .48) were not different among groups.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance: Consolidation with either CCNU/MOPP or HBRT showed no advantage over a standard CHOP‐based protocol.
History and Clinical Features of Atypical Myopathy in Horses in Belgium (2000–2005)
Authors: Votion Dominique‐M. , Linden Annick , Saegerman Claude , Engels Patrick , Erpicum Michel , Thiry Etienne , Delguste Catherine , Rouxhet Serge , Demoulin Vincent , Navet Rachel , Sluse Francis , Serteyn Didier , van Galen Gaby , Amory Hélène
Published: March 2010

Background: The emergent nature of atypical myopathy or atypical myoglobinuria (AM) necessitates precise description of its clinical and epidemiologic features.

Purpose: To define key features of AM to help practitioners recognize the disease and to advise owners to take preventive measures.

Animals: Belgian cases of AM confirmed by histology (CC horses; n = 57) from autumn 2000 to spring 2005 were included in the study. Co‐grazing horses (Co‐G horses; n = 77) that remained free of any abnormal clinical signs constituted a control group.

Methods: History, environmental characteristics, clinical signs, and laboratory results associated with AM were determined by a retrospective case series study.

Results: Young horses in poor or normal body condition were found to be at risk for AM. Pastures were characterized by poor natural drainage and vegetation of low nutritional value. Features of AM were seasonal occurrence, apparent link with weather conditions (ie, lack of solar radiation with no heavy frost and an excess of precipitation or relative humidity), sudden onset of clinical signs, and rapid death. Evaluation of serum creatine kinase activity indicated severe muscle destruction in CC horses and subclinical disease in a few Co‐G horses.

Conclusions: The association of AM with specific environmental conditions and individual animals suggests that young horses should not be pastured on bare premises subject to humidity when the weather has been very wet and cold for several days. Management of AM outbreaks should include control of Co‐G horses who are apparently healthy.
Mushroom‐Derived Maitake PETfraction as Single Agent for the Treatment of Lymphoma in Dogs
Authors: Griessmayr P.C. , Gauthier M. , Barber L.G. , Cotter S.M.
Published: March 2010

Background: Maitake PETfraction is a standardized essence extracted from the mushroom Maitake (Grifola frondosd) that has antitumor activity in tumor‐bearing mice. In addition, PETfraction induces apoptosis in human prostate and bladder cancer cells and suppresses the proliferation in vitro of several canine tumor cell lines, such as lymphoma (Cl‐1), mammary gland (CF33), and connective tissue (CF21).

Hypothesis: Maitake PETfraction is effective as a single agent in dogs with lymphoma.

Animals: Fifteen dogs with confirmed intermediate or high‐grade lymphoma were enrolled into this prospective, noncontrolled, clinical trial. Inclusion criteria were an expected survival time of at least 2 weeks and no major organ dysfunction.

Methods: Maitake PETfraction was administered at a dose of 3 drops/kg/day divided into 2 doses given 1 hour before feeding. Dogs were evaluated by physical examination with tumor measurement, body weight, CBC, and chemistry profile before treatment and after 2, 4, 8, and 12 weeks. At each visit, owners completed a questionnaire addressing overall quality of life, appetite, and any adverse effects noted.

Results: A decrease in lymph node size of greater than 50% (objective response) was not seen in any of the dogs. Thirteen dogs developed progressive disease before the 4th week. The median treatment duration was 27 days (range, 9–228). PETfraction was well accepted, and minimal adverse effects were observed. Two dogs developed hyphema. It was not known if this was related to progressive lymphoma or was an adverse effect of treatment.

Conclusions: No objective responses were observed to administration of Maitake PETfraction, and the drug was well tolerated in these dogs.
Clinicopathologic Features and Outcome Predictors ofLeptospira interrogansAustralis Serogroup Infection in Dogs: A Retrospective Study of 20 Cases (2001–2004)
Authors: Mastrorilli Cinzia , Dondi Francesco , Agnoli Chiara , Turba Maria Elena , Vezzali Enrico , Gentilini Fabio
Published: March 2010

Background and Hypothesis: We retrospectively evaluated the Clinicopathologic findings and outcome predictors in dogs withLeptospira interrogansAustralis serogroup infections.

Animals and Methods: The medical records of 159 dogs that had a leptospiral microscopic agglutination test (MAT) performed between 2001 and 2004 were reviewed.

Results: Twenty dogs met serologic criteria for either symptomatic (16 dogs) or asymptomatic (4 dogs) infection caused byLeptospira interrogansAustralis serogroup. Seven of 16 symptomatic dogs died or were euthanized and 9/16 recovered. Systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS) was observed in 9/16 dogs. The presence of SIRS did not affect prognosis (P= .357). C‐reactive protein (CRP) and haptoglobin (Hpt) concentrations were altered in all symptomatic dogs, but results did not differ significantly between survivors and nonsurvivors (P= .08 andP= .055, respectively). Conversely, the CRP to Hpt ratio (CRP/Hpt) was significantly increased in nonsurvivors. Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) was diagnosed in 7/16 dogs. DIC did not significantly affect outcome (P= .126). Multiple organ involvement was present with renal failure in 16/16, liver damage in 12/16, cardiac damage in 11/16, and muscular damage in 8/16 dogs.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance: Among the evaluated Clinicopathologic biomarkers, serum albumin, cardiac troponin I, CRP/Hpt, urinary albumin, and urinary total protein to creatinine ratio were found to predict outcome and warrant evaluation in larger prospective studies.
Evaluation of Clinical, Macroscopic, and Histopathologic Response to Treatment in Nonhypoproteinemic Dogs with Lymphocytic‐Plasmacytic Enteritis
Authors: Garcia‐Sancho M. , Rodríguez‐Franco F. , Sainz A. , Mancho C. , Rodríguez A.
Published: March 2010

Background: Lymphocytic‐plasmacytic enteritis (LPE) is a common cause of chronic vomiting and diarrhea in dogs. However, little information is available about endoscopic or histopathologic improvement after therapy in dogs with LPE.

Hypothesis: The objective was to study the clinical, endoscopic, and histopathologic evolution of LPE during and after immunosuppressive treatment with prednisone and metronidazole. Most dogs also were treated symptomatically with metoclopramide and cimetidine.

Animals: Sixteen dogs with LPE and normal serum protein concentrations diagnosed at the Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital of the Complutense University of Madrid were monitored during and after drug treatment. The control group consisted of 9 dogs that had no gastrointestinal signs for the preceding 12 months.

Methods: In this prospective clinical treatment trial, clinical, endoscopic, and histopathologic scores were evaluated to describe disease evolution during conventional therapy. Dogs with LPE were monitored for 120 days from the start of treatment. Re‐evaluation was performed on post‐treatment days 30, 60, 90 (end of treatment), and 120.

Results: The average disease activity index observed in our study fell progressively from its initial value, and the decrease between consecutive re‐evaluations was statistically significant until day 60 (P= .04). Our results indicate that 75% of the animals revealed improvement of endoscopic gastric lesions (defined as a reduction of the endoscopic score) after treatment, and 75% exhibited improvement of endoscopic duodenal lesions. Statistical analysis of the data revealed significant differences between pre‐ and post‐treatment gastric and duodenal macroscopic endoscopic lesions (P< .05). On the other hand, treatment did not lead to any significant changes in the severity of the gastric and duodenal histopathologic lesions of the affected dogs.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance: Treatment of nonhypoproteinemic dogs with LPE led to clinical and endoscopic improvement, but histopathologic lesions were unchanged during therapy.
Percutaneous Endoscopic Gastrojejunostomy Tube Placement in Healthy Dogs and Cats
Authors: Jergens Albert E. , Morrison Jo Ann , Miles Krisrtina G. , Silverman William B.
Published: March 2010

Background:Pancreatitis, hepatobiliary disease, and proximal gastrointestinal tract disorders are clinical situations where delivery of nutrients via jejunostomy tube is preferable to a feeding gastrostomy. A through description of the percutaneous endoscopic gastrojejunostomy (PEG‐J) technique and practical guidelines for irts use in small animals have not been reported. endoscopic gasrtrojejunosrtomy (PEG‐J technique and practical guidelines for its use in small animals have not been reported

Hypothesis:That a simple rtechnique of PEG‐J tube placement in humans would be useful and safe in healthy dogs and cats

Animals:Twelve healthy dogs and 5 healthy carts were included in the study

Materials and Methods:Commericially prepared PEG‐J tubes were modified for use in animals and positioned in the small intestine by endoscopic guidance. Eight dofgs and 5 cats were bolus fed enteral diets for 14 days. Complicartions associated with the use of the PEG‐J tube and responses to bolus feedings were assessed

Results:Jejunostomy tubes were placed disrtal to the caudal duodenal flexure in all dogs and cats. Complicartions associated with PEG‐J tubes occurred in 5/12 dogs and 4/5 cats and inclded J‐tube removal, local pain/inflammation, retrograde tube migration, and diarrhea. Bolus feeding (daily maintenance energy requirement [MER] divided q8h) through the jejunostomy catheter was well tolerated, maintained normal body weight, and was not associated with adverse gasrt rointestinal signs

Conclusions and Clinical Importance:Placement of a PEG‐J rtube is an effective, noninvasive technique for providing enteral nutritional support of healthy dogs and cats. Bolus‐feeding techniques via PEG‐J tubes maintain normal nutritional status in healthy dogs and carts. This procedure for jejunostomy feeding may be easily adapted for use in clinical practice outside of an intensive care facility
Assessment of Thyroid Function in Dogs with Low Plasma Thyroxine Concentration
Authors: Espineira M.M. Diaz , Mol J.A. , Peeters M.E. , Pollak Y.W.E.A. , Iversen L. , van Dijk J.E. , Rijnberk A. , Kooistra H.S.
Published: March 2010

Background: Differentiation between hypothyroidism and nonthyroidal illness in dogs poses specific problems, because plasma total thyroxine (TT4) concentrations are often low in nonthyroidal illness, and plasma thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) concentrations are frequently not high in primary hypothyroidism.

Hypothesis: The serum concentrations of the common basal biochemical variables (TT4, freeT4[fT4], and TSH) overlap between dogs with hypothyroidism and dogs with nonthyroidal illness, but, with stimulation tests and quantitative measurement of thyroidal99mTcO4‐uptake, differentiation will be possible.

Animals: In 30 dogs with low plasma TT4concentration, the final diagnosis was based upon histopathologic examination of thyroid tissue obtained by biopsy. Fourteen dogs had primary hypothyroidism, and 13 dogs had nonthyroidal illness. Two dogs had secondary hypothyroidism, and 1 dog had metastatic thyroid cancer.

Methods: The diagnostic value was assessed for (1) plasma concentrations of TT4, fT4, and TSH; (2) TSH‐stimulation test; (3) plasma TSH concentration after stimulation with TSH‐releasing hormone (TRH); (4) occurrence of thyroglobulin antibodies (TgAbs); and (5) thyroidal99mTcO4‐uptake.

Results: Plasma concentrations of TT4, fT4, TSH, and the hormone pairs TT4/TSH and fT4/TSH overlapped in the 2 groups, whereas, with TgAbs, there was 1 false‐negative result. Results of the TSH‐ and TRH‐stimulation tests did not meet earlier established diagnostic criteria, overlapped, or both. With a quantitative measurement of thyroidal99mTcO4‐uptake, there was no overlap between dogs with primary hypothyroidism and dogs with nonthyroidal illness.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance: The results of this study confirm earlier observations that, in dogs, accurate biochemical diagnosis of primary hypothyroidism poses specific problems. Previous studies, in which the TSH‐stimulation test was used as the “gold standard” for the diagnosis of hypothyroidism may have suffered from misclassification. Quantitative measurement of thyroidal99mTcO‐uptake has the highest discriminatory power with regard to the differentiation between primary hypothyroidism and nonthyroidal illness.
Glycogen Storage Disease Type IIIa in Curly‐Coated Retrievers
Authors: Gregory Brittany L. , Shelton G. Diane , Bali Deeksha S. , Chen Yuan‐Tsong , Fyfe John C.
Published: March 2010

Background: Inborn errors of metabolism impose a significant genetic burden on purebred dogs and cats. The glycogen storage diseases are a category of such disorders that are typed by enzyme analysis, but deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) based carrier tests are needed for definitive, noninvasive diagnosis and to prevent at‐risk matings.

Hypothesis: Glycogen storage disease type IIIa (GSD IIIa) is caused by a mutation of the glycogen debranching enzyme gene (AGL) in Curly‐Coated Retrievers (CCR).

Animals: Two CCR exhibiting episodic exercise intolerance, collapse, and lethargy, and related dogs were studied.

Methods: Structure and amount of glycogen isolated from tissue biopsy specimens was determined by enzymatic digestion, and activities of enzymes of glycogen metabolism were measured. The 33 AGL coding exons and flanking splice sites of an affected dog were amplified by polymerase chain reaction and sequenced.

Results: Debranching enzyme activity was undetectable in liver and skeletal muscle of affected dogs, and accumulated glycogen had absent or short outer chains of α1, 4‐linked glucose. A single adenosine (A) deletion in AGL exon 32 of affected dog genomic DNA predicted a frame‐shift and truncation of the protein product by 126 amino acid residues. The mutation was homozygous in affected dogs and heterozygous in both parents. In addition, the deletion mutation was heterozygous in 16 or not detected at all in 31 related but clinically normal CCR.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance: GSD IIIa in CCR is an autosomal recessive trait caused by mutation of AGL. A DNA sequence‐based carrier test was developed, and carriers were identified in the United States, New Zealand, Australia, and Finland.
Prognostic Factors in Canine Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency: Prolonged Survival is Likely if Clinical Remission is Achieved
Authors: Batchelor Daniel J. , Noble Peter‐John M. , Taylor Rebecca H. , Cripps Peter J. , German Alexander J.
Published: March 2010

Background: Response to therapy in canine exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI) varies considerably, making it difficult to determine prognosis for individual patients.

Hypothesis: Response to initial treatment (RIT) and survival are affected by signalment, clinical variables, and therapeutic regimen employed.

Animals: Client‐owned dogs diagnosed with EPI between 1990 and 2002 were included in this study.

Methods: The study comprised a retrospective, questionnaire‐based review.

Results: One hundred seventy‐eight completed questionnaires were returned. RIT was good in 60% of treated dogs, partial in 17%, and poor in 23%. On univariate analysis, dogs that received antibiotics (P= .037) or had high serum folate concentration (P= .037) had a poorer RIT. On multivariate analysis, there were no strong predictors of good RIT. Nineteen percent of treated dogs were euthanized within 1 year, but overall median survival time for treated dogs was 1919 days. No clear benefit of changing to a fat‐restricted diet could be demonstrated, but marked hypocobalaminemia (< 100 ng/L) was associated with shorter survival (P= .012). Use of uncoated pancreatic enzyme supplements, antibacterials, or H2 antagonists was not associated with longer survival. Breed, sex, age at diagnosis (≥4 years or > 4 years), and clinical signs at diagnosis also made no difference.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance: Long‐term prognosis in canine EPI is favorable for dogs that survive the initial treatment period. Although there are few predictors of good RIT or long‐term survival, severe cobalamin deficiency is associated with shorter survival. Therefore, parenteral cobalamin supplementation should be considered when hypocobalaminemia is documented.
Decreased Systolic Function and Inadequate Hypertrophy in Large and Small Breed Dogs with Chronic Mitral Valve Insufficiency
Authors: Borgarelli Michele , Tarducci Alberto , Zanatta Renato , Haggstrom Jens
Published: March 2010

Background: Systolic dysfunction associated with chronic mitral valve insufficiency (CMVI) has been demonstrated in experimental animal models and large breed (LB) dogs but has been reported as an uncommon finding in small breed (SB) dogs with naturally occurring disease. It has been suggested the myocardial failure could be, in part, because of an insufficient increase in left ventricular mass.

Hypothesis: To test if SB and LB dogs with CMVI and moderate heart failure have systolic dysfunction and if they have adequate eccentric hypertrophy.

Animals: Data from 38 SB and 18 LB dogs affected with CMVI were compared retrospectively with results from 2 groups of normal dogs (17 SB and 32 LB)

Methods: Systolic function was investigated echocardiographically by using percentage fractional shortening (FS), the ratio between observed and expected end‐systolic diameter (ESD/ESDe), and end‐systolic volume index (ESVI). Left ventricular hypertrophy was estimated by using the ratio between the thickness of the left ventricular free wall and the radius in diastole (h/R).

Results: Both affected SB and LB dogs had a significantly increased FS and ESVI (FS% SB 45.6 + 8.04 versus 40.06 + 8.9,P< .05; FS% LB 33.64 + 8.61 versus 27.3 + 7.3P< .05; ESVI SB 30.0 ± 2.3 mL/m2versus 21.18 ± 13.9 mL/m2,P< .05; ESVI LB 83.22 ± 43.84 mL/m2versus 36.43 ± 13.30 mL/m2versusP< .001). The h/R in affected animals was decreased (0.53 ± 0.11 versus 0.41 ± 0.12,P< .05 SB; 0.47 ± 0.11 versus 0.38 ± 0.09,P< .05, LB).

Conclusions and Clinical Importance: Data from this study indicate that dogs with moderate heart failure caused by CMVI have systolic dysfunction. Inadequate hypertrophy of the left ventricle may be, in part, responsible for this finding.
Assessment of Diastolic Function by Doppler Echocardiography in Normal Doberman Pinschers and Doberman Pinschers with Dilated Cardiomyopathy
Authors: O'Sullivan M. Lynne , O'Grady Michael R. , Minors Sandra L.
Published: March 2010

Background: Assessment of diastolic function in patients with dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) has the potential to add valuable information regarding hemodynamics, disease severity, and prognosis. The purpose of this study was to determine transmitral flow (TMF), isovolumic relaxation time (IVRT), pulmonary venous flow (PVF), flow propagation velocity (Vp), and mitral annular velocities by tissue Doppler in Doberman Pinschers with and without DCM.

Hypothesis: It was anticipated that normal and DCM Dobermans would differ with respect to these parameters, and that associations with time to congestive heart failure (CHF) or death would be found.

Animals: Thirty client‐owned Doberman Pinschers (10 each of normal, occult DCM, and overt DCM) were studied.

Methods: Each dog underwent echocardiography with or without thoracic radiography (to confirm CHF) for classification as normal or DCM‐affected, followed by collection of echocardiographic diastolic parameters.

Results: The group with occult DCM exhibited features of pseudonormal TMF, reduced systolic to diastolic PVF ratio, and reduced Vp. Shorter early TMF deceleration time (DTE) was associated with shorter time to CHF or sudden death. The group with overt DCM exhibited restrictive TMF, blunted systolic PVF, and reduced early and late diastolic mitral annular velocities.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance: Doberman Pinschers showed evidence of moderate and severe diastolic dysfunction in occult and overt DCM, respectively. Short DTE may be a useful predictor of onset of CHF or sudden death.
Evaluation of a Novel Tumor Vaccine in Dogs with Hemangiosarcoma
Authors: U'Ren Lance W. , Biller Barbara J. , Elmslie Robyn E. , Thamm Douglas H. , Dow Steven W.
Published: March 2010

Background: Hemangiosarcoma (HSA) is a highly metastatic and often rapidly fatal tumor of dogs. At present, adjuvant chemotherapy is the only proven effective treatment for dogs with HSA, though the benefits from chemotherapy are modest. Administration of immunotherapy together with chemotherapy has also been reported to improve survival in dogs with HSA. Therefore, we evaluated safety and immunologic responses to a novel tumor vaccine administered together with doxorubicin chemotherapy in dogs with different stages of HSA.

Hypothesis: That tumor vaccination could be safely and effectively combined with doxorubicin chemotherapy for treatment of dogs with HSA.

Animals: Twenty‐eight dogs with various stages of HSA were enrolled in the study.

Methods: The HSA vaccine was prepared with lysates of allogeneic canine HSA cell lines mixed with an adjuvant composed of liposome‐DNA complexes. Dogs received a series of 8 immunizations administered over a 22‐week period, and most also received chemotherapy. Clinical adverse effects were noted, immune responses were measured by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) and flow cytometry, and survival times were calculated.

Results: The most common adverse effects observed in vaccinated dogs also treated with doxorubicin chemotherapy were diarrhea and anorexia. Vaccinated dogs were found to mount strong humoral immune responses against a control antigen and, most dogs also mounted antibody responses against canine HSA cells. Thirteen dogs with stage II splenic HSA that received the tumor vaccine plus doxorubicin chemotherapy had an overall median survival time of 182 days.

Conclusions: We conclude that an allogeneic tumor lysate vaccine is safe in dogs with HSA and can elicit humoral immune responses in dogs that are receiving concurrent doxorubicin chemotherapy.
Prophylactic Trimethoprim‐Sulfadiazine during Chemotherapy in Dogs with Lymphoma and Osteosarcoma: A Double‐Blind, Placebo‐Controlled Study
Authors: Chretin J.D. , Rassnick K.M. , Shaw N.A. , Hahn K.A. , Ogilvie G.K. , Kristal O. , Northrup N.C. , Moore A.S.
Published: March 2010

Background: The administration of chemotherapy is associated with risk for morbidity. Management of chemotherapy‐related morbidity in veterinary oncology has been primarily supportive.

Hypothesis: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of prophylactic antimicrobial use on chemotherapy‐associated morbidity in dogs with lymphoma or osteosarcoma.

Animals: Dogs presenting with histologically confirmed osteosarcoma or lymphoma were eligible.

Methods: Patients were randomized to receive placebo or trimethoprim‐sulfadiazine for 14 days after their first doxorubicin chemotherapy. Both owner and clinician were blinded with respect to treatment. Patient assessment included CBC, physical examination and performance, and toxicosis grading on days 7 and 14. Investigated outcomes were hospitalization, suspicion of infection, gastrointestinal toxicity, neutropenia, nonhematologic toxicity, and quality of life.

Results: Seventy‐three dogs were enrolled; 34 had osteosarcoma, and 39 had lymphoma. Dogs receiving trimethoprim‐sulfadiazine (n = 36) had a significantly reduced hospitalization rate (P=.03), nonhematologic toxicity (P= 0.039), grade 2–4 nonhematologic toxicity (P< .0001), grade 2–4 gastrointestinal toxicity (P= .007). and altered performance (P= .015). By group, dogs with osteosarcoma (n = 34) that received the antimicrobial experienced fewer occurrences of nonhematologic toxicity (P= .02) and less severe nonhematologic toxicity (P= .038). Dogs with lymphoma (n = 39) had significant reductions in the occurrence of hospitalization (P= .035), severity of nonhematologic toxicity (P= .036), and alterations of performance (P= .015).

Conclusions: The use of prophylactic trimethoprim‐sulfadiazine has benefit in reducing morbidity in dogs with osteosarcoma or lymphoma during the first 14 days after treatment with doxorubicin.
Transient Hyperammonemia Due to Urea Cycle Enzyme Deficiency in Irish Wolfhounds
Authors: Zandvliet M.M.J.M. , Rothuizen J.
Published: March 2010

Background:Irish Wolfhounds frequently have a congenital portosystemic shunt, but a considerable proportion of the 6‐to 8‐wk‐old pups has hyperammonemia in the absence of portosystemic shunting. This hyperammonemia causes no signs and is transient, normalizing at the age of 3–4 months.

Hypothesis:Transient hyperammonemia has a metabolic basis in Irish Wolfhounds.

Animals:Two related (same sire) litters of Irish Wolfhounds (17 pups) and their parents were studied.

Methods:Integrity of the portal circulation was examined by ultrasonography and scintigraphy. Absence of parenchymal liver disease was verified by liver biopsy. Amino acid profiles were measured in 4 pups and repeated in 2 of these pups when ammonia concentrations had normalized. The amino acid profiles were compared with those of healthy Irish Wolfhound pups.

Results:Fasting venous ammonia concentrations were high (113–622 μg/dL, 65–345 μmol/L) in all pups, whereas bile acids were within reference range in all but 1. The ammonia and bile acid concentrations from all parents were within reference range. Portosystemic shunting was excluded in all but 1 pup. Liver biopsy excluded significant lesions in all 10 pups examined. Hypercitrullinemia was found and persisted even when ammonia had normalized, at the expense of an increase in glutamine and asparagine.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance: Citrulline concentrations are controlled by the urea cycle enzymes argininosuccinase and argininosuccinate synthetase, and a defect in either of these enzymes may be responsible for the transient hyperammonemia in Irish Wolfhounds. Resolution of the hyperammonemia is associated with increased activity of alternative metabolic pathways forming glutamine and asparagine. Confirmation requires measurement of enzyme activities in liver tissue.
Flexible Bronchoscopy and Bronchoalveolar Lavage in 68 Cats (2001–2006)
Authors: Johnson Lynelle R. , Drazenovich Tracy L.
Published: March 2010

Background:Bronchoscopy is an important tool for identifying an underlying etiology for respiratory disease in cats. However, the procedure is challenging, because feline airways are small and prone to bronchoconstriction.

Hypothesis:Bronchoscopy and bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) are appropriate and safe diagnostic procedures in the cat.

Animals:Sixty‐eight cats.

Methods:Flexible bronchoscopy was performed in all cats with the cats under propofol infusion with jet ventilation. The procedures were reviewed for BAL volumes instilled and recovered and for the number and type of complications with the use of 3 flexible endoscopes < 5.0‐mm outer diameter. The BAL procedure was compared among scopes by using a one‐way analysis of variance. Complication rates were compared by using chi‐square analysis. Significance was set atP< .05.

Results:Clinical diagnoses included inflammatory airway disease in 46 of 68 cats, pneumonia in 10 of 68, neoplastic disease in 8 of 68, and other conditions in 4 of 68 cats. Mean lavage volumes instilled for the 3 scopes were 2.62–5.05 mL/kg (range, 0.77–9.38 mL/kg). Mean percent fluid recovered for the 3 scopes was 51–73%, (range, 0–140%). BAL cell counts were adequate for cytologic assessment (> 300 cells/μL) in 61 of 64 cats (97%), and in 107 of 120 samples (89%) collected. Complications occurred in 38% of procedures; however, these were mild in 24% of cats; 6% of cats died or were euthanized after the procedure. Complications were not associated with fluid volume instilled or recovered, and could not be related to the underlying disease process.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance: Flexible bronchoscopy with BAL was well tolerated in most cats examined.
Relative Adrenal Insufficiency in Dogs with Sepsis
Authors: Burkitt Jamie M. , Haskins Steve C. , Nelson Richard W. , Kass Philip H.
Published: March 2010

Background:A syndrome of relative adrenal insufficiency has been identified in septic humans, and is associated with hypotension and death. Relative adrenal insufficiency is generally associated with basal serum cortisol concentration within or above the reference range and a blunted cortisol response to adrenocorticotropic hormone administration. It is unknown whether relative adrenal insufficiency occurs in septic dogs.

Hypothesis:That relative adrenal insufficiency occurs in septic dogs, and that relative adrenal insufficiency is associated with hypotension and mortality.

Animals:Thirty‐three septic dogs admitted to a small animal intensive care unit.

Methods:Dogs were included in the study if they had a known or suspected infectious disease and had systemic inflammatory response syndrome. Dogs were excluded if they had disease or medication history expected to affect the hypothalamic‐pituitary‐adrenal axis. Serum cortisol and endogenous plasma adrenocorticotropic hormone concentrations were measured before, and serum cortisol concentration measured 1 hour after, intramuscular administration of 250 μg of cosyntropin/dog. The change in cortisol concentration (β‐cortisol) before and after cosyntropin administration was determined in each dog.

Results:Hypotension was associated with lower A‐cortisol values (OR 1.3; CI 1.0–1.9;P= .029). A‐Cortisol cutoff of 3.0 μg/dL was most accurate for predicting hypotension, survival to discharge, and 28‐day survival. The rate of death in dogs with A‐cortisol ≤3 μg/dL was 4.1 times that of dogs with A‐cortisol > 3 μg/dL (RR 4.1; CI 1.5–12.3;P= .01).

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance: β‐cortisol ≤3 μg/dL after adrenocorticotropic hormone administration is associated with systemic hypotension and decreased survival in septic dogs.
Distinguishing Cardiac and Noncardiac Dyspnea in 48 Dogs Using Plasma Atrial Natriuretic Factor, B‐Type Natriuretic Factor, Endothelin, and Cardiac Troponin‐I
Authors: Prošek Robert , Sisson D. David , Oyama Mark A. , Solter Philip F.
Published: March 2010

Background:It is challenging to differentiate congestive heart failure (CHF) from noncardiac cause of dyspnea.

Hypothesis:Circulating concentrations of atrial natriuretic peptide (NT‐proANP), B‐type natriuretic peptide (BNP), endothelin‐1 (ET‐1), and cardiac troponin‐I (cTnl) can be used to help distinguish between cardiac and noncardiac causes of dyspnea in dogs.

Animals:Forty‐eight client‐owned dogs admitted to a veterinary teaching hospital for respiratory distress.

Methods:Blood samples from patients were prospectively obtained. The etiology of dyspnea was determined by using physical examination, thoracic radiographs, and echocardiography.

Results:CHF was diagnosed in 22 dogs, and dyspnea of noncardiac origin (noHD group) was diagnosed in 26 dogs. Analyses revealed significant difference between groups for NT‐proANP (geometric mean, 95% confidence [CI]; no HD: 0.26 nmol/mL, 95% CI 0.17–1.09; CHF: 1.38 nmol/mL, 95% CI 1.09–1.74 nmol/mL;P< .0001), BNP (noHD: 12.18 pg/mL, 95% CI 10.91–16.17 pg/mL; CHF: 34.97 pg/mL, 95% CI 23.51–52.02 pg/mL;P< .0001), and ET‐1 (noHD: 0.32 fmol/mL, 95% CI 0.23–0.46 fmol/mL; CHF: 1.26 fmol/mL, 95% CI 0.83–1.91 fmol/mL;P< .0001). Plasma cTnI concentrations were not significantly different between groups (noHD: 0.29 ng/mL, 95% CI 0.12–0.72 ng/mL; CHF: 0.42 ng/mL, 95% CI 0.18–0.97,P= .53). Receiver operating curves indicated areas under the curve for NT‐proANP, BNP, and ET‐1 of 0.946, 0.886, and 0.849, respectively.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance: Plasma NT‐proANP, BNP, and ET‐1, but not cTnI, appear useful for distinguishing between dogs with cardiac and noncardiac causes of dyspnea, with plasma NT‐proANP having the highest sensitivity (95.5%) and specificity (84.6%).
Prospective Clinical Evaluation of an ELISA B‐Type Natriuretic Peptide Assay in the Diagnosis of Congestive Heart Failure in Dogs Presenting with Cough or Dyspnea
Authors: DeFrancesco Teresa C. , Rush John E. , Rozanski Elizabeth A. , Hansen Bernard D. , Keene Bruce W. , Moore Dominic T. , Atkins Clarke E.
Published: March 2010

Background:B‐type natriuretic peptide (BNP) is increased in dogs with congestive heart failure (CHF).

Hypothesis:The purpose of this study was to evaluate the clinical utility of a novel canine‐specific enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay of BNP for the diagnosis of CHF in dogs presenting with either cough or dyspnea.

Animals:Three hundred and thirty dogs from 2 large university teaching hospitals.

Methods:We prospectively measured plasma BNP concentrations in 3 groups of dogs: (1) normal adult dogs (n = 75), (2) dogs with asymptomatic heart disease (n = 76), and (3) dogs with cough or dyspnea (n = 179). The final diagnosis of dogs with cough or dyspnea and the severity of CHF (International Small Animal Cardiac Health Council Heart Failure Classification [ISACHC]) were determined by medical record review by a study cardiologist who was blinded to the results of the BNP assay.

Results:Dogs with CHF had a higher median BNP concentration (24.6 pg/mL) than dogs with noncardiac causes of cough or dyspnea (2.6 pg/mL) (P< .0001). The area under the curve was 0.91 for the receiver operating curve analysis of the diagnostic accuracy of the BNP measurement to differentiate CHF from other causes of cough or dyspnea. The median BNP concentrations in dogs were 3.0 pg/mL with ISACHC I, 17.8 pg/mL with ISACHC II, and 30.5 pg/mL with ISACHC III. (P< .0001)

Conclusion and Clinical Importance: Measurement of BNP is useful in establishing or in excluding the diagnosis of CHF in dogs with cough or dyspnea. B‐type natriuretic peptide concentrations rose significantly as a function of severity of CHF.
Transthoracic Echocardiographic Measurement of Patent Ductus Arteriosus in Dogs
Authors: Schneider Matthias , Hildebrandt Nicolai , Schweigl Tatjana , Wehner Martin
Published: March 2010

Background:Patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) size and morphology influence the selection of the kind and the size of the embolization device used to effect shunt closure.

Hypothesis:That echocardiographic measurement of PDA in dogs is accurate.

Animals:Forty‐five client‐owned dogs with PDA.

Methods:Prospective observational study. Echocardiographic and angiographic data were compared.

Results:Measurement of the ductus in color Doppler echocardiography (CD‐E) and 2‐dimensional echocardiography (2D‐E) was achieved from left parasternal views in 43 of 45 unsedated dogs (96%). In these 43 dogs, the angiographic minimal PDA diameter was 3.72 ± 1.59 mm, and the diameter of the PDA ampulla was 8.46 ± 3.01 mm. The CD‐E minimal PDA diameter ranged from 2.3 to 9.5 mm (median, 4.0 mm). There was a significant mean difference to the angiographic measurements (1.15 ± 0.95 mm; P < .0001). An agreement in a 1‐mm range was found in 21 of 43 dogs (48%). The 2D‐E minimal PDA diameter was 3.73 ± 1.78 mm, and the mean difference to the angiographic measurements was not significant (0.00 ± 0.72 mm; P= .98). An agreement in a 1‐mm range was found in 31 of 43 dogs (72%). The 2D‐E measurement of the PDA ampulla revealed a significant mean difference to the angiographic data (1.95 ± 2.43 mm, P < .0001). An agreement in a 2‐mm range was found in 21 of 43 dogs (49%).

Conclusions and Clinical Importance: The 2D‐E from the left cranial parasternal view is an excellent noninvasive method to estimate the PDA minimal diameter before doing catheter intervention.
Omega‐3 Fatty Acids in Boxer Dogs with Arrhythmogenic Right Ventricular Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Smith Caren E. , Freeman Lisa M. , Rush John E. , Cunningham Suzanne M. , Biourge Vincent
Published: March 2010

Background:Omega‐3 fatty acids have been shown to reduce arrhythmia in animal models and people. These effects have not been studied in dogs with spontaneously occurring arrhythmia.

Hypothesis:Fish oil will reduce the frequency of ventricular arrhythmia in Boxer dogs with arrhythmogenic right ventricular Cardiomyopathy (ARVC).

Animals:Twenty‐four Boxers with ARVC were included in this study.

Methods:Asymptomatic Boxers not receiving antiarrhythmic medications were evaluated with echocardiogram and electrocardiogram. Dogs with at least 1 ventricular premature contraction (VPC) received 24‐hour ambulatory electrocardiography (AECG) recordings. Dogs with >95 VPCs in 24 hours were randomized to 1 of 3 treatments: (1) Fish oil, 2 g; (2) Flax oil, 2 g; or (3) sunflower oil, 2 g (Control group), for 6 weeks. Investigators and owners were blinded to the treatment groups. All baseline measurements were repeated after the 6‐week supplementation.

Results:There were no differences at baseline for age, sex, blood pressure, weight, echocardiographic measurements, or VPCs. Median number of VPCs in 24 hours for all dogs was 543 (range, 96–40,063) at baseline and 193 (range, 6–14,825) after 6 weeks of supplementation. VPCs/24 h were reduced for the Fish oil group (baseline median = 397 [range, 249–10,587]; 6‐week median = 162 [range, 16–3,781];P= .02), but not for the Flax oil (P= .58) or Control (P= .48) groups.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance: These data suggest that fish oil, but not flax oil, supplementation for 6 weeks reduces arrhythmia in Boxers with ARVC and that it could be useful in treating this common disease. Further studies are needed to determine optimal dose and duration of treatment.
Clinical Stage, Therapy, and Prognosis in Canine Anal Sac Gland Carcinoma
Authors: Polton Gerry A. , Brearley Malcolm J.
Published: March 2010

Background:Reports of canine anal sac gland carcinoma (ASGC) describe varied clinical presentations and management and differing responses to therapy. A unifying approach to clinical stage determination and management of this disease has yet to be presented.

Hypothesis:An ordinal clinical staging scheme for canine ASGC can be devised on the basis of responses to therapy for a retrospective cohort of affected dogs.

Animals:130 dogs with naturally occurring ASGC.

Methods:A simplified clinical stage system and a management algorithm for canine ASGC were derived from retrospective evaluation of a cohort of 80 dogs; applicability of both was then prospectively evaluated in a cohort of 50 dogs.

Results:Retrospective evaluation revealed 4 statistically significant negative prognostic indicators for survival: lack of therapy, presence of distant metastases, presence of lymph node metastases, and primary tumor size. Lymph node extirpation was a statistically significant positive prognostic indicator by bivariate analysis. In both retrospective and prospective analyses, the modified clinical stage scheme revealed a significant association with survival time.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance: The clinical staging scheme permits differentiation between groups in terms of prognosis and, therefore, decisions on therapy. This will facilitate application of appropriate therapy and enhanced communication and collaboration in further investigations of ASGC.