bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Babesia gibsoni infection among dogs in the southeastern United States
Authors: Macintire Douglass K. , Boudreaux Mary K. , West Gretchen D. , Bourne Candace , Wright James C. , Conrad Patricia A.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To identify subclinicalBabesia gibsoniinfection in American Pit Bull Terriers from the southeastern United States and to determine the genetic sequence of parasite DNA isolated from these dogs.

Design—Case series.

Animals—33 American Pit Bull Terriers and 87 dogs of various other breeds.

Procedure—Blood smears were examined for microscopic evidence of the parasite, and DNA was extracted from blood samples and used in a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay designed to amplify the small subunit ribosomal RNA gene sequence ofB gibsoni. Amplification products of the expected size were sequenced, and sequences were compared with published sequences forB gibsoniisolates. Hematocrit, platelet count, mean platelet volume, WBC count, and eosinophil count were compared between dogs with positive PCR assay results and dogs with negative results.

Results—Results of the PCR assay were positive for 18 of the 33 (55%) American Pit Bull Terriers, including all 10 dogs with microscopic evidence of parasitemia. Only 1 of these dogs was clinically ill at the time blood samples were collected. Results of microscopic evaluation of blood smears and of the PCR assay were negative for the 87 other dogs. Hematocrit and platelet count were significantly lower in dogs with positive PCR assay results than in dogs with negative results.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that American Pit Bull Terriers in the southeastern United States may be subclinically infected withB gibsoni. However, subclinical infection was not identified in dogs of other breeds from the same geographic area. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2002;220: 325–329)
Population-based study of fecal shedding of Clostridium perfringens in broodmares and foals
Authors: Tillotson Kirsten , Traub-Dargatz Josie L. , Dickinson Charles E. , Ellis Robert P. , Morley Paul S. , Hyatt Doreene R. , Magnuson Roberta J. , Riddle W. Thomas , Bolte Denise , Salman M. D.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine the percentage of broodmares and foals that shedClostridium perfringensin their feces and classify the genotypes of those isolates.

Design—Prospective cross-sectional study.

Animals—128 broodmares and their foals on 6 equine premises.

Procedures—Anaerobic and aerobic bacteriologic cultures were performed on feces collected 3 times from broodmares and foals. All isolates ofC perfringenswere genotyped.

Results—Clostridium perfringenswas isolated from the feces of 90% of 3-day-old foals and 64% of foals at 8 to 12 hours of age. A lower percentage of broodmares and 1- to 2-month-old foals shedC perfringensin their feces, compared with neonatal foals. Among samples with positive results,C perfringenstype A was the most common genotype identified (85%);C perfringenstype A with the β2 toxin gene was identified in 12% of samples,C perfringenstype A with the enterotoxin gene was identified in 2.1% of samples, andC perfringenstype C was identified in < 1% of samples.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Clostridium perfringenswas identified from the feces of all but 6 foals by 3 days of age and is likely part of the normal microflora of neonatal foals. Most isolates from broodmares and foals areC perfringenstype A; thus, the clinical relevance of culture results alone is questionable.Clostridium perfringenstype C, which has been associated with neonatal enterocolitis, is rarely found in the feces of horses. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2002;220:342–348)
Prevalence of Salmonella spp in selected birds captured on California dairies
Authors: Kirk John H. , Holmberg Charles A. , Jeffrey Joan S.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine the prevalence of
Salmonella spp in wild birds commonly found on
California dairies.

Design—Prospective study.

Animals—7 selected species of birds were captured
on 9 dairies in Kings and Tulare counties, California.

Procedure—Birds were captured (using traps and
nets) and euthanatized, and the entire gastrointestinal
tract was removed. Contents of the gastrointestinal
tract were subjected to culture for Salmonella spp.

Results—892 birds were captured, and Salmonella
spp were isolated from 22 birds. The prevalence by
dairy ranged from 0.7 to 16.7%, whereas the prevalence
by bird species ranged from 1.2 to 3.2%.
Cowbirds and English sparrows had the highest
prevalence of Salmonella organisms. Five serotypes
of Salmonella organisms were isolated, including
Meleagridis, Montevideo, Muenster, Typhimurium,
and an untyped serotype.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—On the basis
of our findings, birds that commonly inhabit California
dairies harbor Salmonella organisms. However,
because of the low prevalence of Salmonella organisms
in birds and the Salmonella serotypes isolated,
birds are not important reservoirs of Salmonella
organisms on California dairies. (J Am Vet Med Assoc
2002;220:359–362)
Prevalence of and risk factors for leptospirosis among dogs in the United States and Canada: 677 cases (1970–1998)
Authors: Ward Michael P. , Glickman Lawrence T. , Guptill Lynn F.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine whether there was a temporal trend in prevalence of leptospirosis among dogs in the United States and Canada and to determine whether age, sex, and breed were risk factors for the disease.

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—1,819,792 dogs examined at 22 veterinary teaching hospitals between 1970 and 1998.

Procedures—The Veterinary Medical Data Base was searched for records of dogs in which a diagnosis of leptospirosis was made, and hospital prevalence was calculated. Logistic regression was used to examine the association between leptospirosis and age, sex, and breed.

Results—677 dogs with leptospirosis were identified. Thus, hospital prevalence was 37 cases/100,000 dogs examined. A significant increase in leptospirosis prevalence between 1983 and 1998 was identified. Male dogs were at significantly greater risk of leptospirosis than were female dogs; dogs between 4 and 6.9 years old and between 7 and 10 years old were at significantly greater risk than dogs < 1 year old; and herding dogs, hounds, working dogs, and mixed-breed dogs were at significantly greater risk than companion dogs.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—The prevalence of leptospirosis among dogs examined at veterinary teaching hospitals in the United States and Canada has increased significantly since 1983. Male dogs of working and herding breeds were at greater risk. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2002;220:53–58)
Prevalence of feline leukemia virus infection and serum antibodies against feline immunodeficiency virus in unowned free-roaming cats
Authors: Lee Irene T. , Levy Julie K. , Gorman Shawn P. , Crawford P. Cynda , Slater Margaret R.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine prevalence of FeLV infection and serum antibodies against feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) in unowned free-roaming cats.

Design—Cross-sectional serologic survey.

Animals—733 unowned free-roaming cats in Raleigh, NC, and 1,143 unowned free-roaming cats in Gainesville, Fla.

Results—In Raleigh, overall prevalence of FeLV infection was 5.3%, and overall seroprevalence for FIV was 2.3%. In Gainesville, overall prevalence of FeLV infection was 3.7%, and overall seroprevalence for FIV was 4.3%. Overall, FeLV prevalence was 4.3%, and seroprevalence for FIV was 3.5%. Prevalence of FeLV infection was not significantly different between males (4.9%) and females (3.8%), although seroprevalence for FIV was significantly higher in male cats (6.3%) than in female cats (1.5%).

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Prevalence of FeLV infection and seroprevalence for FIV in unowned free-roaming cats in Raleigh and Gainesville are similar to prevalence rates reported for owned cats in the United States. Male cats are at increased risk for exposure to FIV, compared with female cats. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2002;220:620–622)
Radiographic evidence of degenerative joint disease in geriatric cats: 100 cases (1994–1997)
Authors: Hardie Elizabeth M. , Roe Simon C. , Martin Fonda R.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine prevalence of radiographic evidence of degenerative joint disease (DJD) in geriatric cats.

Design—Retrospective study.

Population—100 cats > 12 years of age.

Procedure—One investigator reviewed radiographs and for each articulation (or group of articulations) that was visible assigned a grade of severity (0, 1, 2, 3) for DJD. Another investigator reviewed medical records and recorded signalment, environment, previous disease, diseases evident at time of radiography, FeLV vaccination and infection status, feline immunodeficiency virus serologic status, serum creatinine concentration, serum globulin concentration, and any other important findings. Associations between DJD of grade 2 or 3 and variables recorded from the medical record were determined.

Results—Radiographic evidence of DJD was evident in 90% of cats. Neurologic disease was associated with lesions in the lumbosacral portion of the vertebral column. Severe lesions were found in 17% of the elbow joints, but an underlying cause was not determined.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Degenerative joint disease was detected radiographically in most geriatric cats and may be an overlooked cause of clinical disease. Clinicians should be alert to the possibility that DJD is associated with neurologic signs. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2002;220:628–632)
Dysautonomia in dogs: 65 cases (1993–2000)
Authors: Harkin Kenneth R. , Andrews Gordon A. , Nietfeld Jerome C.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine signalment, history, clinical findings, results of autonomic function testing and other antemortem diagnostic tests, and pathologic findings in dogs with dysautonomia.

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—65 dogs with dysautonomia.

Procedure—Case records of 68 dogs with a diagnosis of dysautonomia were reviewed; inclusion criteria included histologic confirmation of dysautonomia or clinical signs and results of pharmacologic testing consistent with dysautonomia.

Results—65 dogs fulfilled all criteria for dysautonomia. Dogs from rural environments were overrepresented, and cases of dysautonomia were reported for every month, although the highest number of cases was reported in February and March. Vomiting was the most common clinical sign, followed by diarrhea, signs of anorexia and depression, weight loss, and dysuria. The most common physical examination finding was decreased or absent anal tone, followed by absent pupillary light reflexes and elevated nictitating membrane. Results of pharmacologic te sting were consistent with dysautonomia, although no single test was 100% sensitive. Histologic lesions consistent with dysautonomia were found in the autonomic ganglia, brainstem nuclei, and ventral horns of the spinal cord.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Dysautonomia is an endemic disease in Kansas, and a high index of suspicion of the disease can be made by combining clinical signs, physical examination findings, and results of pharmacologic testing. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2002;220:633–639)
Serum thyroxine concentrations and pregnancy rates 15 to 16 days after ovulation in broodmares
Authors: Gutierrez Cynthia V. , Riddle W. Thomas , Bramlage Larry R.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine whether serum thyroxine (T4) concentration was associated with pregnancy rates 15 to 16 days after ovulation in mares and to determine whether thyroid hormone supplementation would enhance fertility in mares.

Design—Cohort study.

Animals—329 clinically normal broodmares.

Procedure—Mares were examined 15 to 16 days after ovulation to determine whether they were pregnant; blood samples for determination of serum T4concentration were collected at the same time. Sixty mares were receiving thyroid hormone supplementation prior to the study because of low serum T4concentration (< 16 µg/dl) prior to breeding.

Results—Serum T4concentration ranged from 4.5 to 53.9 mg/dl. Forty (12%) mares had low (< 16 µg/dl) concentrations, 283 (86%) had normal concentrations, and 6 (2%) had high (> 45 µg/dl) concentrations. Two hundred thirty-one mares were pregnant 15 to 16 days after ovulation. A significant association between serum T4concentration (low, normal, or high) and pregnancy (yes or no) was not detected, and logistic regression analysis indicated that serum T4concentration was not significantly related to pregnancy. Of the 269 mares not receiving thyroid hormone supplementation, 187 were pregnant, and of the 60 mares receiving thyroid supplementation, 44 were pregnant. There was no significant relationship between thyroid hormone supplementation and pregnancy status.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that serum T4concentration in mares is not significantly associated with pregnancy 15 to 16 days after ovulation. Results also suggest that supplementation of mares that only have low T4concentrations is not indicated or likely to be beneficial. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2002;220:64–66)
Effect of lameness on milk yield in dairy cows
Authors: Hernandez Jorge , Shearer Jan K. , Webb Daniel W.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To examine the relationship between lameness and milk yield in dairy cows.

Design—Cohort study.

Animals—531 dairy cows.

Procedure—Cows affected with lameness were classified into 1 of 3 groups on the basis of type of diseases or lesions observed, including interdigital phlegmon (foot rot), papillomatous digital dermatitis (foot warts), or claw lesions. Cows not affected with lameness were classified as healthy. From Dairy Herd Improvement Association records, 305-day mature equivalent milk yield data were collected at the end of lactation or when the cow left the herd. Milk yield was compared between cows affected with lameness and healthy cows.

Results—167 (31%) cows were affected with lameness during lactation. Lame cows had claw lesions (60%), papillomatous digital dermatitis (31%), or interdigital phlegmon (9%). Milk yield in lame cows with interdigital phlegmon (mean, 17,122 lb) was significantly less, compared with healthy cows (19,007 lb).

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—In this herd, interdigital phlegmon was associated with a 10% decrease in milk production. Lame cows with claw lesions or papillomatous digital dermatitis produced less milk than healthy cows, but the difference was not significant. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2002;220:640–644)
Persistent fecal Salmonella shedding in five dairy herds
Authors: Huston Carla L. , Wittum Thomas E. , Love Brenda C.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To monitor patterns ofSalmonellafecal shedding in naturally infected dairy herds, determine the association between fecal shedding and individual animal production measures, and evaluate potential risk factors for shedding ofSalmonellaorganisms among cattle in dairy herds.

Design—Longitudinal study.

Sample Population—5 Ohio dairy herds.

Procedure—For 3 herds, fecal samples were collected from all mature cows and unweaned calves 7 times during an 18-month period. For the remaining 2 herds, fecal samples were collected from 50 lactating cows 6 times during a 12-month period. Individual animal production records for 3 herds were used to examine associations between individual fecalSalmonellashedding status and 305-day matureequivalent milk production, somatic cell count, milk fat content, and milk protein content. Multivariable logistic regression was used to test for associations between fecal shedding status and breed, lactation status, lactation number, and duration of lactation.

Results—None of the adult animals had clinical signs of salmonellosis, but prevalence of fecalSalmonellashedding at individual collection times ranged from 0 to 99% for cows and from 0 to 67% for unweaned calves. Mature cows were more likely to be sheddingSalmonellaorganisms than were unweaned calves. Within herds, lactation status and duration of lactation for individual animals were associated withSalmonellashedding status.Salmonellafecal shedding status was not associated with individual cow production measures.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that subclinical fecalSalmonellashedding can persist in dairy herds for up to 18 months with no measurable effects on health or production of individual cows. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2002;220:650–655)
Isolation of shiga-toxigenic Escherichia coli O157 from hide surfaces and the oral cavity of finished beef feedlot cattle
Authors: Keen James E. , Elder Robert O.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine whether viable shiga-toxigenic
Escherichia coli (STEC) O157 could be isolated
from hide surface locations and the oral cavity of finished
beef feedlot cattle.

Design—Within-animal prevalence distribution survey.

Animals—139 finished cattle in 4 pens in a feedlot in
Nebraska; prevalence of fecal STEC O157 shedding
ranged from 20 to > 90%.

Procedure—Samples were collected from 7 sites from
each animal: feces, oral cavity, and 5 hide surface locations
(lumbar region, ventral aspect of the neck, ventral
abdominal midline [ventrum], dorsal thoracic midline
[back], and distal aspect of the left hind limb [hock]).

Results—Viable STEC O157 were isolated from the
oral cavity or 1 or more hide surfaces of 130 cattle,
including 50 fecal isolation-negative cattle. Site-specific
prevalence of STEC O157 was 74.8% for oral cavity
samples, 73.4% for back samples, 62.6% for neck
samples, 60.4% for fecal samples, 54.0% for flank
samples, 51.1% for ventrum samples, and 41.0% for
hock samples. Only 5 cattle tested negative for STEC
O157 at all 7 sites. Multiple correspondence and cluster
analyses demonstrated that bacterial culture of
feces, oral cavity samples, and back samples detected
most cattle with STEC O157.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest
that viable STEC O157 may be isolated from the
oral cavity, multiple hide surfaces, and feces of a high
percentage of fed beef cattle and that bacterial culture
of feces alone generally underestimates the percentage
of fed beef cattle from which STEC O157 can be
isolated. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 2002;220:xxx–xxx)
Medetomidine, ketamine, and sevoflurane for anesthesia of injured loggerhead sea turtles: 13 cases (1996–2000)
Authors: Chittick Elizabeth J. , Stamper M. Andrew , Beasley Jean F. , Lewbart Gregory A. , Horne William A.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine safety and efficacy of an anesthetic protocol incorporating medetomidine, ketamine, and sevoflurane for anesthesia of injured loggerhead sea turtles.

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—13 loggerhead sea turtles.

Procedure—Anesthesia was induced with medetomidine (50 µg/kg [22.7 µg/lb], IV) and ketamine (5 mg/kg [2.3 mg/lb], IV) and maintained with sevoflurane (0.5 to 2.5%) in oxygen. Sevoflurane was delivered with a pressure-limited intermittent-flow ventilator. Heart rate and rhythm, end-tidal partial pressure of CO2, and cloacal temperature were monitored continuously; venous blood gas analyses were performed intermittently. Administration of sevoflurane was discontinued 30 to 60 minutes prior to the end of the surgical procedure. Atipamezole (0.25 mg/kg [0.11 mg/lb], IV) was administered at the end of surgery.

Results—Median induction time was 11 minutes (range, 2 to 40 minutes; n = 11). Median delivered sevoflurane concentrations 15, 30, 60, and 120 minutes after intubation were 2.5 (n = 12), 1.5 (12), 1.25 (12), and 0.5% (8), respectively. Heart rate decreased during surgery to a median value of 15 beats/min (n = 11). End-tidal partial pressure of CO2ranged from 2 to 16 mm Hg (n = 8); median blood gas values were within reference limits. Median time from atipamezole administration to extubation was 14 minutes (range, 2 to 84 minutes; n = 7).

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that a combination of medetomidine and ketamine for induction and sevoflurane for maintenance provides safe, effective, controllable anesthesia in injured loggerhead sea turtles. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2002;221:1019–1025)
Findings in cerebrospinal fluids of horses infected with West Nile virus: 30 cases (2001)
Authors: Wamsley Heather L. , Alleman A. Rick , Porter Michael B. , Long Maureen T.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To evaluate CSF in horses with confirmed
West Nile virus encephalomyelitis.

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—30 horses.

Procedure—Results of CSF analyses from horses
with acute neurologic signs attributed to West Nile
virus infection that was confirmed by immunoglobulin
M antibody capture ELISA were reviewed and analyzed.

Results—Among 30 CSF samples, findings in 8
(27%) were within reference ranges and in 22 (73%)
were abnormal. Among the 22 abnormal samples,
mononuclear pleocytosis was found in 16 (73%) and
high protein concentration with nucleated cell count
within reference range was found in 6 (27%) samples.
A predominance of lymphocytes was found in
11 of 16 samples with mononuclear pleocytosis, and
a predominance of large mononuclear cells was
found in 5 of 16 samples. Sensitivities of analyses of
CSF obtained from the lumbosacral and atlanto-occipital
regions of the spinal cord were 89 and 50%,
respectively.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest
that in horses with acute onset of neurologic
signs caused by West Nile virus encephalomyelitis,
findings in the CSF are likely to be abnormal, mononuclear
pleocytosis with lymphocytic predominance may
be most commonly observed, and CSF collected from
the lumbosacral region may be abnormal more commonly
than CSF collected from the atlanto-occipital
region. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 2002;221:1303–1305)
Postoperative infection with Actinobacillus spp in horses: 10 cases (1995–2000)
Authors: Smith Meredith A. , Ross Michael W.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine features of postoperative wound infection caused byActinobacillusspp in horses undergoing clean, elective surgery and to evaluate bacterial susceptibility profiles of bacteria isolated.

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—10 horses.

Procedure—Data were retrieved from medical records and the microbiology laboratory database.

Results—1,604 horses underwent clean, elective surgical procedures during the study period. Of these, 23 (1.43%) had postoperative wound infections, andActinobacillusspp was isolated from 10 of these 23 (43%). Surgical procedures in these 10 horses included laryngoplasty with ventriculocordectomy (n = 3), arthroscopy (3), desmotomy of the accessory ligament of the superficial digital flexor tendon (2), removal of laryngoplasty prostheses (1), and hygroma resection (1). Seven horses survived, and 3 were euthanatized. All 10Actinobacillusisolates were resistant to penicillin, and 6 were resistant to trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole. All isolates were susceptible to ceftiofur and gentamicin. During the 5-year period of the study,Actinobacillusorganisms were isolated from 35 of 513 (6.8%) samples from the general hospital population submitted for bacterial culture and antimicrobial susceptibility testing.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—During the study period,Actinobacillusspp was isolated from a higher than expected percentage of horses that developed postoperative wound infections after clean, elective surgery. Susceptibility profiles for these isolates were different from typical susceptibility profiles forActinobacillusisolates, suggesting that a pattern of resistance may be emerging. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2002;221:1306–1310)
Comparison of tibial plateau angle between clinically normal Greyhounds and Labrador Retrievers with and without rupture of the cranial cruciate ligament
Authors: Wilke Vicki L. , Conzemius Michael G. , Besancon Michael F. , Evans Richard B. , Ritter Matt
Published: January 2006

Objective—To compare tibial plateau angle (TPA) between Greyhounds without damage to the cranial cruciate ligaments and Labrador Retrievers with and without damage to the cranial cruciate ligaments.

Design—Clinical study.

Animals—87 client-owned dogs and 15 research colony Greyhounds.

Procedure—Standing position, horizontal-beam radiography was performed on Greyhounds and unaffected Labrador Retrievers to determine standing TPA. Lateral radiography of the stifle joint was performed on all dogs to determine traditional TPA. Age and body weight were recorded for unaffected and affected Labrador Retrievers.

Results—Greyhounds had mean standing TPA of 1.56° and mean traditional TPA of 22.50°. Unaffected Labrador Retrievers had mean standing TPA of 3.52° and traditional TPA of 27.97°. Affected Labrador Retrievers had mean traditional TPA of 25.55°. No significant difference was found in mean standing TPA between Greyhounds and unaffected Labrador Retrievers. Standing TPAs in Greyhounds and unaffected Labrador Retrievers were not significantly different from a plane drawn parallel to the ground. Significant differences in traditional TPAs were detected among all 3 groups.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Greyhounds had mean traditional TPA of 22.50°; similar angles should be considered normal for dogs. Although affected Labrador Retrievers had mean traditional TPA that was significantly greater than that of Greyhounds, the steepest TPA was found in unaffected Labrador Retrievers. Because Greyhounds and unaffected Labrador Retrievers had similar standing TPAs, we conclude that although TPA may be associated with damage to the cruciate ligaments, many dogs with a steep TPA do not develop cruciate ligament disease. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2002;221:1426–1429)
Surgery alone or in combination with radiation therapy for treatment of intracranial meningiomas in dogs: 31 cases (1989–2002)
Authors: Axlund Todd W. , McGlasson Matt L. , Smith Annette N.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To compare, for dogs with intracranial meningiomas, survival times for dogs treated with surgical resection followed by radiation therapy with survival times for dogs treated with surgery alone.

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—31 dogs with intracranial meningiomas.

Procedure—Medical records of dogs with histologic confirmation of an intracranial meningioma were reviewed. For each dog, signalment, clinical signs, tumor location, treatment protocol, and survival time were obtained from the medical record and through follow-up telephone interviews.

Results—Dogs that underwent tumor resection alone and survived > 1 week after surgery had a median survival time of 7 months (range, 0.5 to 22 months). Dogs that underwent tumor resection followed by radiation therapy had a median survival time of 16.5 months (range, 3 to 58 months).

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that in dogs with intracranial meningiomas, use of radiation therapy as a supplement to tumor resection can significantly extend life expectancy. (J Am Med Vet Assoc2002;221:1597–1600)
Randomized controlled trial of the efficacy of cyclosporine in the treatment of atopic dermatitis in dogs
Authors: Olivry Thierry , Steffan Jean , Fisch Roland D. , Prélaud Pascal , Guaguère Eric , Fontaine Jacques , Carlotti Didier N.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To evaluate efficacy of cyclosporine A, administered at either of 2 dosages, in dogs with atopic dermatitis (AD).

Design—Multicenter randomized controlled trial.

Animals—91 dogs with AD.

Procedure—Dogs were assigned to receive placebo (30 dogs), cyclosporine at a low dosage (2.5 mg/kg [1.1 mg/lb], PO, q 24 h for 6 weeks; 30 dogs), or cyclosporine at a high dosage (5.0 mg/kg [2.3 mg/lb], PO, q 24 h for 6 weeks; 31 dogs).

Results—After 6 weeks, mean percentage reductions, compared with baseline scores, in scores of lesion severity were 34, 41, and 67% for dogs treated with the placebo, cyclosporine at the low dosage, and cyclosporine at the high dosage, respectively. Similarly, mean percentage reductions in pruritus scores were 15, 31, and 45%, respectively. Percentage reductions in skin lesion and pruritus scores were significantly higher for dogs given cyclosporine at the high dosage than for dogs given the placebo. Treatment efficacy was significantly associated with whether dogs had a history of seasonal AD. Percentage reductions in skin lesion and pruritus scores were high for dogs treated with cyclosporine at the highest dosage that had a history of nonseasonal AD. Dogs in all groups with seasonal AD improved during the study period.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that oral administration of cyclosporine at a dosage of 5.0 mg/kg once daily is effective in reducing severity of pruritus and skin lesions in dogs with AD, especially those with nonseasonal disease. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2002;221:370–377)
Evaluation of trends in frequency of urethrostomy for treatment of urethral obstruction in cats
Authors: Lekcharoensuk Chalermpol , Osborne Carl A. , Lulich Jody P.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine hospital proportional morbidity rates (HPMR) for urethral obstructions, urethral plugs or urethroliths, and urethrostomies in cats in veterinary teaching hospitals (VTH) in Canada and the United States between 1980 and 1999.

Design—Epidemiologic study.

Animals—305,672 cats evaluated at VTH.

Procedures—Yearly HPMR were determined for cats with urethral obstructions, urethral plugs or urethroliths, or urethrostomies from data compiled by the Purdue Veterinary Medical Database. The test for a linear trend in proportions was used.

Results—Urethral obstructions were reported in 4,683 cats. Yearly HPMR for urethral obstructions declined from 19 cases/1,000 feline evaluations in 1980 to 7 cases/1,000 feline evaluations in 1999. Urethral plugs or urethroliths affected 1,460 cats. Yearly HPMR for urethral plugs or urethroliths decreased from 10 cases/1,000 feline evaluations in 1980 to 2 cases/1,000 feline evaluations in 1999. A total of 2,359 urethrostomies were performed. Yearly HPMR for urethrostomies decreased from 13 cases/1,000 feline evaluations in 1980 to 4 cases/1,000 feline evaluations in 1999.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Frequency of feline urethrostomies performed at VTH in Canada and the United States declined during the past 20 years and paralleled a similar decline in frequency of urethral obstructions and urethral plugs or urethroliths. These trends coincide with widespread use of diets to minimize struvite crystalluria in cats, which is important because struvite has consistently been the predominant mineral in feline urethral plugs during this period. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2002;221:502–505)
Evaluation of an oscillometric blood pressure monitor for use in anesthetized cats
Authors: Pedersen Karen M. , Butler Michael A. , Ersbøll Annette K. , Pedersen Henrik D.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine accuracy of an oscillometric blood pressure monitor used over a wide range of pressures in anesthetized cats.

Design—Prospective study.

Animals—6 healthy cats.

Procedure—4 female cats and 2 male cats that weighed 2.7 to 4.5 kg (5.9 to 9.9 lb) and were 2 to 8 years old were anesthetized. Blood pressure was measured directly with an arterial catheter placed in the right femoral artery and indirectly from the left antebrachium by use of an oscillometric monitor. A series of diastolic arterial pressure (DAP), mean arterial pressure (MAP), and systolic arterial pressure (SAP) measurements were obtained during hypotension, normotension, and hypertension. Values obtained indirectly and directly were compared.

Results—The oscillometric monitor was accurate for DAP and MAP throughout the entire pressure range and met the standards of the Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation (mean ± SD difference from values obtained directly, ≤ 5 ± 8 mm Hg). The SAP was increasingly underestimated with increasing overall pressure; mean differences from direct measurements were –5.2, –12.1, and –17.7 mm Hg during hypo-, normo-, and hypertension, respectively. Standard deviations for SAP were all ≤ 8 mm Hg. The monitor gave readings during all attempts. The direct blood pressure recording system appeared to perform well with neither under- nor overdamping.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Except for a minor underestimation of SAP during normo- and hypertension, the oscillometric monitor yielded reliable and easily obtainable blood pressure measurements in anesthetized cats. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2002;221:646–650)
Effects of long-term administration of enalapril on clinical indicators of renal function in dogs with compensated mitral regurgitation
Authors: Atkins Clarke E. , Brown William A. , Coats Julie R. , Crawford Mary Ann , DeFrancesco Teresa C. , Edwards Joel , Fox Philip R. , Keene Bruce W. , Lehmkuhl Linda , Luethy Michael , Meurs Kate , Petrie Jean-Paul , Pipers Frank , Rosenthal Steven , Sidley Jennifer A. , Straus Justin
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine the effect of long-term administration of enalapril on renal function in dogs with severe, compensated mitral regurgitation.

Design—Randomized controlled trial.

Animals—139 dogs with mitral regurgitation but without overt signs of heart failure.

Procedure—Dogs were randomly assigned to be treated with enalapril (0.5 mg/kg [0.23 mg/lb], PO, q 24 h) or placebo, and serum creatinine and urea nitrogen concentrations were measured at regular intervals for up to 26 months.

Results—Adequate information on renal function was obtained from 132 dogs; follow-up time ranged from 0.5 to 26 months (median, 12 months). Mean serum creatinine and urea nitrogen concentrations were not significantly different between dogs receiving enalapril and dogs receiving the placebo at any time, nor were concentrations significantly different from baseline concentrations. Proportions of dogs that developed azotemia or that had a ≥ 35% increase in serum creatinine or urea nitrogen concentration were also not significantly different between groups.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that administration of enalapril for up to 2 years did not have any demonstrable adverse effects on renal function in dogs with severe, compensated mitral regurgitation. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2002;221: 654–658)
Hemorrhagic bowel syndrome in dairy cattle: 22 cases (1997–2000)
Authors: Dennison Anita C. , VanMetre David C. , Callan Robert J. , Dinsmore Page , Mason Gary L. , Ellis Robert P.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine signalment, history, and clinical, necropsy, and microbiologic findings in dairy cows with hemorrhagic bowel syndrome.

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—22 adult dairy cows from a single farm in Colorado.

Procedure—Medical records were reviewed for information on signalment, medical and reproductive history, the owner's chief complaints, results of physical examinations and ancillary diagnostic tests, treatment and response to treatment, results of microbiologic testing, and, if applicable, postmortem findings.

Results—Common clinical signs were acute signs of profound depression, decreased milk production, tachycardia, ruminal stasis, abdominal distention, and dark clotted blood in the feces. Rectal examination revealed distended loops of small intestine in 7 of 14 cows. Transabdominal ultrasonography revealed small intestinal ileus and distention in 12 of 12 cows and homogeneous echogenic intraluminal material compatible with intraluminal hemorrhage and clot formation in 4. Seven of 8 cows treated medically died; 9 of 13 cows that underwent surgery died or were euthanatized.Clostridium perfringenswas isolated from fecal samples from 17 of 20 cows. The most common morphologic diagnosis at necropsy was severe necrohemorrhagic enteritis or jejunitis with intraluminal hemorrhage or blood clots. The most prominent histologic finding was severe, segmental submucosal hemorrhage and edema of the small intestine.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results confirm that in adult cattle, hemorrhagic bowel syndrome is a sporadic acute intestinal disorder characterized by intraluminal hemorrhage and obstruction of the small intestine.Clostridium perfringenswas consistently isolated from the feces of affected cows. The prognosis for affected cows was grave. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2002;221:686–689)
Effects of short-term trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole administration on thyroid function in dogs
Authors: Williamson Nicola L. , Frank Linda A. , Hnilica Keith A.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine how rapidly trimethoprimsulfamethoxazole affects serum total thyroxine (T4) and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) concentrations in euthyroid dogs and how quickly hormone concentrations return to reference values following discontinuation of administration.

Design—Prospective study.

Animals—7 healthy euthyroid dogs.

Procedure—Dogs were given trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole (26.5 to 31.3 mg/kg [12 to 14.2 mg/lb], PO, q 12 h) for a maximum of 6 weeks. A CBC and Schirmer tear test were performed and serum total T4and TSH concentrations were measured weekly. Administration of trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole was discontinued if total T4concentration was less than the lower reference limit and TSH concentration was greater than the upper reference limit or if persistent neutropenia developed.

Results—Six dogs had total T4concentrations less than the lower reference limit within 3 weeks; T4concentration was decreased after 1 week in 3 of these 6 dogs. In these 6 dogs, TSH concentration was greater than the upper reference limit within 4 weeks. In 1 dog, T4and TSH concentrations were not affected, despite administration of trimethoprimsulfamethoxazole for 6 weeks. Neutropenia developed in 4 dogs. In 1 dog, the neutropenia resolved while trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole was still being administered. In the other 3, neutrophil counts returned to reference values 1 week after drug administration was discontinued.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that administration of trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole at a dosage of 26.5 to 31.3 mg/kg, PO, every 12 hours can substantially alter serum total T4and TSH concentrations and neutrophil counts in dogs within as short a time as a few weeks. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2002;221:802–806)
Streptozocin for treatment of pancreatic islet cell tumors in dogs: 17 cases (1989–1999)
Authors: Moore Antony S. , Nelson Richard W. , Henry Carolyn J. , Rassnick Kenneth M. , Kristal Orna , Ogilvie Gregory K. , Kintzer Peter
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine toxic effects of streptozocin given in combination with a diuresis protocol in dogs and establish whether streptozocin is efficacious in treatment of pancreatic islet cell tumors in dogs.

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—17 dogs.

Procedure—Medical records were reviewed to obtain information regarding signalment, tumor stage and staging tests performed, number of streptozocin treatments, adverse effects, results of biochemical and hematologic monitoring during streptozocin treatment, tumor dimensions, duration of normoglycemia, and date of death, when applicable. Dogs were compared with a historical control group of 15 dogs treated surgically and medically.

Results—58 treatments were administered to the 17 dogs. Only 1 dog developed azotemia. Serum alanine aminotransferase activity increased in some dogs but decreased when treatment was discontinued. Hematologic toxicoses were rare. Vomiting during administration was uncommon but occasionally severe. Two dogs developed diabetes mellitus after receiving 5 doses. Median duration of normoglycemia for 14 dogs with stage-II or -III insulinoma treated with streptozocin was 163 days (95% confidence interval, 16 to 309 days), which was not significantly different from that for the control dogs (90 days; 95% confidence interval, 0 to 426 days). Two dogs had rapid resolution of paraneoplastic peripheral neuropathy, and 2 others had measurable reductions in tumor size.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that streptozocin can be administered safely to dogs at a dosage of 500 mg/m2, IV, every 3 weeks when combined with a protocol for induction of diuresis and may be efficacious in the treatment of dogs with metastatic pancreatic islet cell tumors. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2002;221:811–818)
Environmental and farm management factors associated with tuberculosis on cattle farms in northeastern Michigan
Authors: Kaneene John B. , Bruning-Fann Colleen S. , Granger Larry M. , Miller RoseAnn , Porter-Spalding Barbara A.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To identify major environmental and farm
management factors associated with the occurrence
of tuberculosis (TB) on cattle farms in northeastern
Michigan.

Design—Case-control study.

Sample Population—17 cattle farms with infected
cattle and 51 control farms.

Procedure—Each case farm (laboratory confirmed
diagnosis of Mycobacterium bovis infection) was
matched with 2 to 4 control farms (negative whole-herd
test results within previous 12 months) on the basis of
type of farm (dairy or beef) and location. Cattle farm
data were collected from in-person interviews and
mailed questionnaires. Wildlife TB data were gathered
through state wildlife surveillance. Environmental data
were gathered from a satellite image-based geographic
information system. Multivariable conditional logistic
regression for matched analysis was performed.

Results—Major factors associated with increased
farm risk of TB were higher TB prevalence among wild
deer and cattle farms in the area, herd size, and ponds
or creeks in cattle housing areas. Factors associated
with reduced farm risk of TB were greater amounts of
natural open lands in the surrounding area and reducing
deer access to cattle housing areas by housing cattle
in barns, barnyards, or feedlots and use of electrified
wire or barbed wire for livestock fencing.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest
that certain environmental and management factors
may be associated with risk of TB on cattle
farms. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 2002;221:837–842)
Use of vagal nerve stimulation as a treatment for refractory epilepsy in dogs
Authors: Muñana Karen R. , Vitek Susanne M. , Tarver W. Brent , Saito Miyoko , Skeen Todd M. , Sharp Nicholas J. H. , Olby Natasha J. , Haglund Michael M.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To evaluate safety and efficacy of vagal nerve stimulation in dogs with refractory epilepsy.

Design—Placebo-controlled, double-masked, crossover study.

Animals—10 dogs with poorly controlled seizures.

Procedure—A programmable pacemaker-like device designed to deliver intermittent stimulation to the left cervical trunk of the vagus was surgically implanted in each dog. Dogs were assigned randomly to two 13- week test periods, 1 with nerve stimulation and 1 without nerve stimulation. Owners recorded data on seizure frequency, duration, and intensity, as well as adverse effects.

Results—No significant difference in seizure frequency, duration, or severity was detected between overall 13-week treatment and control periods. During the final 4 weeks of the treatment period, a significant decrease in mean seizure frequency (34.4%) was detected, compared with the control period. Complications included transient bradycardia, asystole, and apnea during intraoperative device testing, and seroma formation, subcutaneous migration of the generator, and transient Horner's syndrome during the 14-day period between surgery and suture removal. No adverse effects of stimulation were detected, and most owners were satisfied with the treatment.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Vagal nerve stimulation is a potentially safe approach to seizure control that appears to be efficacious in certain dogs and should be considered a possible treatment option when antiepileptic medications are ineffective. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2002;221:977–983)
Molecular identification of Ehrlichia ewingii infection in dogs: 15 cases (1997–2001)
Authors: Goodman Robert A. , Hawkins Eleanor C. , Olby Natasha J. , Grindem Carol B. , Hegarty Barbara , Breitschwerdt Edward B.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To determine historical, physical examination, hematologic, and serologic findings in dogs withEhrlichia ewingiiinfection.

Design—Retrospective study.

Animals—15 dogs.

Procedure—In all dogs, infection withE ewingiiwas confirmed with a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay. Follow-up information and clarification of information recorded in the medical records was obtained by telephone interviews and facsimile correspondence with referring veterinarians and owners.

Results—Fever and lameness were the most common findings with each occurring in 8 dogs. Five dogs had neurologic abnormalities including ataxia, paresis, proprioceptive deficits, anisocoria, intention tremor, and head tilt. Neutrophilic polyarthritis was identified in 4 dogs. No clinical signs were reported in 3 dogs. The predominant hematologic abnormality was thrombocytopenia, which was identified in all 12 dogs for which a platelet count was available. Reactive lymphocytes were seen in 5 of 13 dogs. Concurrent infection with another rickettsial organism was identified in 4 dogs. Of the 13 dogs tested, 7 were seroreactive to E canis antigens. Morulae consistent withE ewingiiinfection were identified in neutrophils in 8 dogs. Treatment with doxycycline, with or without prednisone, resulted in a rapid, favorable clinical response in the 9 dogs for which follow-up information was available.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that PCR testing forE ewingiiinfection should be considered in dogs with fever, neutrophilic polyarthritis, unexplained ataxia or paresis, thrombocytopenia, or unexplained reactive lymphocytes, and in dogs with clinical signs suggestive of ehrlichiosis that are seronegative for E canis. Following treatment with doxycycline, the prognosis for recovery is good. (J Am Vet Med Assoc2003;222:1102–1107)
Survey of antimicrobial susceptibility testing practices of veterinary diagnostic laboratories in the United States
Authors: Brooks Matthew B. , Morley Paul S. , Dargatz David A. , Hyatt Doreene R. , Salman M. D. , Akey Bruce L.
Published: January 2006

Objective—To describe antimicrobial susceptibility testing
practices of veterinary diagnostic laboratories in the
United States and evaluate the feasibility of collating this
information for the purpose of monitoring antimicrobial
resistance in bacterial isolates from animals.

Design—Cross-sectional study.

Procedures—A questionnaire was mailed to veterinary
diagnostic laboratories throughout the United
States to identify those laboratories that conduct susceptibility
testing. Nonrespondent laboratories were
followed up through telephone contact and additional
mailings. Data were gathered regarding methods of
susceptibility testing, standardization of methods,
data management, and types of isolates tested.

Results—Eighty-six of 113 (76%) laboratories responded
to the survey, and 64 of the 86 (74%) routinely performed
susceptibility testing on bacterial isolates from
animals. Thirty-four of the 36 (94%) laboratories
accredited by the American Association of Veterinary
Laboratory Diagnosticians responded to the survey.
Laboratories reported testing > 160,000 bacterial isolates/y. Fifty-one (88%) laboratories reported using the
Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion test to evaluate antimicrobial
susceptibility; this accounted for 65% of the isolates
tested. Most (87%) laboratories used the NCCLS
(National Committee for Clinical Laboratory Standards)
documents for test interpretation. Seventy-five percent
of the laboratories performed susceptibility testing on
bacterial isolates only when they were potential
pathogens.

Conclusions—The veterinary diagnostic laboratories
represent a comprehensive source of data that is not
easily accessible in the United States. Variability in
testing methods and data storage would present challenges
for data aggregation, summary, and interpretation.
(J Am Vet Med Assoc 2003;222:168–173)