bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Canine leucocyte adhesion deficiency in Irish red and white setters
Authors: Debenham S. L. , Millington A. , Kijas J. , Andersson L. , Binns M.
Published: February 2006

Seventy‐six Irish red and white setter samples were tested for the recently documented CD18 point mutation which manifests as canine leucocyte adhesion deficiency (CLAD) in Irish setters. Six carrier dogs were identified, all originating from a lineage within which sporadic deaths from symptoms consistent with CLAD had been observed. This is the first demonstration that the CLAD mutation exists outside the Irish setter population, confirming that the mutation is present in a significant minority of Irish red and white setters. Routine testing by breeders to identify carrier animals will enable the eradication of CLAD from the Irish red and white setter population.
Neosporosis with cerebellar involvement in an adult dog
Authors: Lorenzo V. , Pumarola M. , Sisó S.
Published: February 2006

A case of an adult dog with multifocal, progressive neurological signs caused by Neospora caninum is reported. Pathological studies showed cerebellar lesions due to the parasite, which was also present in other parts of the nervous system and muscle. Cerebellar atrophy related to Neospora infection has been rarely reported in veterinary medicine, and has been shown to affect ruminants and dogs. The cerebellar involvement and the age of the present dog make this case uncommon.
Two cases of severe iron‐deficiency anaemia due to inflammatory bowel disease in the dog
Authors: Ristic J. M. E. , Stidworthy M. F.
Published: February 2006

Two dogs were referred for investigation of lethargy and anaemia. Preliminary examinations by the referring veterinary surgeons had revealed severe anaemia, which was poorly regenerative. In one case, the anaemia was microcytic and, in the other, it was hypochromic. These findings were suggestive of chronic blood loss anaemia. Neither dog had external signs of gastrointestinal disease, although one had vomited on a single occasion during the two weeks preceding referral. Although both dogs were producing grossly normal faeces, further investigations detected faecal occult blood. Multiple full thickness gastrointestinal biopsies were taken at laparotomy. These showed segmental eosinophilic enteritis of the duodenum and proximal jejunum in one case, and marked chronic lymphocytic gastritis in the other. Both cases illustrate the fact that severe systemic disease can result from gastrointestinal pathology in the absence of clinical signs of gastrointestinal disease.
Surgical treatment of congenital lobar emphysema in a puppy
Authors: Billet J‐P. H. G. , Sharpe A.
Published: February 2006

Congenital lobar emphysema was found in a three‐month‐old male springer spaniel. Clinical signs included coughing, progressive dyspnoea and abnormal lung auscultation. Radiographic examination revealed overinflation and hyperlucency of the right middle lung lobe. Following lung lobectomy, clinical signs resolved and the animal had normal exercise tolerance. Previous case reports are reviewed and discussed in relation to human congenital lobar emphysema.
Use of aminoglutethimide in the treatment of pituitary‐dependent hyperadrenocorticism in the dog
Authors: Pérez Alenza M. D. , Guerrero B. , Melián C. , Ynaraja E. , Peñta L.
Published: February 2006

The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of aminoglutethimide in the treatment of dogs with pituitary‐dependent hyperadrenocorticism (PDH). Ten dogs were diagnosed with PDH based on clinical and laboratory data, adrenal function tests (adrenocorticotropic hormone [ACTH] stimulation test and urinary cortisol/creatinine ratio [UCCR] combined with a high dose oral dexamethasone suppression test) and ultrasonographic evaluation of the adrenal glands. Aminoglutethimide was administered daily at a dose of 15 mg/kg bodyweight for one month. Median basal cortisol concentration and post‐ACTH cortisol concentration one month after treatment were significantly lower than pretreatment values. Complete response was achieved in one dog, and partial response was obtained in three dogs. Severe side effects of anorexia, vomiting and weakness occurred in one dog and medication was withdrawn. Two further dogs developed decompensations of concurrent diseases and medication was stopped in these animals as well. Mild toxicity occurred in four dogs. Moderate to severe elevations in liver enzymes occurred in all dogs. The efficacy of this drug is lower than that observed using mitotane and ketoconazole, and adverse effects limit its use. Aminoglutethimide, using the protocol described, cannot be recommended for long‐term management of PDH in the dog.
Association between anal furunculosis and colitis in the dog: preliminary observations
Authors: Jamieson P. M. , Simpson J. W. , Kirbyand B. M. , Else R. W.
Published: February 2006

Treatment of anal furunculosis in dogs is often unsatisfactory and may be associated with significant recurrence and complications. This may be compounded by the simultaneous presence of colitis in affected animals. Clinical signs associated with colitis and anal furunculosis may be similar, including faecal tenesmus, dyschezia and haematochezia. To examine the incidence of concurrent anal furunculosis and colitis, colonic biopsies were collected from 18 dogs referred for treatment of anal furunculosis. Nine dogs (50 per cent) had a histopathological diagnosis of colitis. Clinical signs more indicative of colitis than anal furunculosis (increased frequency of defecation, mucus in faeces and diarrhoea) were not observed more frequently in dogs with confirmed colitis compared with those with furunculosis alone. Therefore, while an association between colitis and anal furunculosis may exist, clinical signs alone cannot be used as an indicator of the presence of colitis in cases of anal furunculosis. The authors recommend that colonic biopsies should be undertaken in all dogs presented with anal furunculosis. Whether specific treatment of colitis in dogs with histopathological evidence of colitis improves the outcome of treatment for anal furunculosis awaits further study.
Stereotactic CT‐guided brain biopsy in the dog
Authors: Moissonnier P. , Blot S. , Devauchelle P. , Delisle F. , Beuvon F. , Boulha L. , Colle M‐A. , Lefrancois T.
Published: February 2006

This study evaluated the accuracy of a new stereotactic CT‐guided brain biopsy (SCTGBB) device on 23 client‐owned dogs which presented with a brain lesion. Biopsy of the lesion was achieved in 95 per cent of cases. The target tissue was not sampled in one dog. Complications were observed in six dogs. Two dogs with highly vascularised brainstem tumours died after SCTGBB. Minor complications (slight variation in the neurological status) were observed in a further four cases. A diagnosis was reached in 16 dogs after cytological examination and in 21 dogs after histological evaluation. SCTGBB is an accurate diagnostic method for the diagnosis of brain lesions.
Retrieval of a patent ductus arteriosus coil following embolisation to the right subclavian artery
Authors: Van Israël N. , French A. T.
Published: February 2006

A two‐month‐old female Tibetan terrier was re‐presented with an incomplete closure of the patent ductus arteriosus. Following a second attempt to close the shunt by coil embolisation, arterial embolisation occurred. The successful removal of the embolised coil is described.
Canine status epilepticus: a retrospective study of 50 cases
Authors: Platt S. R. , Haag M.
Published: February 2006

The medical records of 50 dogs that exhibited generalized convulsive tonic‐clonic (GCTC) status epilepticus (SE) were reviewed and compared with the records of 50 dogs that exhibited non‐SE GCTC seizures. The mean age, bodyweight and gender of the patients in both groups were not significantly different. Dogs in the non‐SE group were two times more likely to be an idiopathic epileptic than to have secondary epileptic seizures. The SE group was more likely to have abnormalities on cerebrospinal fluid analysis, but not more likely to have abnormalities detected on computed tomography, when compared with the non‐SE group. SE was 1·57 times more likely if the cause for the seizures was secondary or reactive epilepsy rather than idiopathic or primary epilepsy. In conclusion, dogs that exhibit SE should be thoroughly investigated for secondary causes.
Serological survey of leptospiral infection in kennelled dogs in Italy
Authors: Scanziani E. , Origgi F. , Giusti A. M. , Iacchia G. , Vasino A. , Pirovano G. , Scarpa P. , Tagliabue S.
Published: February 2006

Two hundred and forty‐five dogs were examined serologically for the presence of antibodies against different serovars ofLeptospira interrogans.The dogs belonged to five different groups: group 1 was composed of clinically healthy pet dogs referred for a regular veterinary check‐up visit or for vaccination; group 2 was composed of stray dogs; and groups 3, 4 and 5 were composed of dogs maintained in three different kennels which had varying standards of hygiene. Seventy‐two out of the 245 dogs examined were seropositive for leptospirosis. In group 1, there were 3·4 per cent seropositive dogs; in group 2, 30·3 per cent; in group 3, 13·8 per cent; in group 4, 38·6 per cent; and in group 5, 49·2 per cent. This study demonstrates that leptospiral infection is common in dogs housed in kennels, despite most of them being vaccinated, and that crowding of animals into unsanitary quarters is associated with a high prevalence of infection. The most common infecting serovars found werebratislavaandgrippotyphosa, confirming recent observations that demonstrate a significant change in the epidemiology of canine leptospirosis.
Thoracolumbar disc disease in 71 paraplegic dogs: influence of rate of onset and duration of clinical signs on treatment results
Authors: Ferreira A. J. A. , Correia J. H. D. , Jaggy A.
Published: February 2006

Seventy‐one paraplegic dogs with confirmed intervertebral thoracolumbar disc disease and intact deep pain sensation were treated by hemilaminectomy and fenestration of at least two adjacent discs. The success rate of treatment in the overall population was 86 per cent (61/71 cases), with a mean length of time to regaining the ability to walk of 10·8 days and a mean follow‐up time of 29 months. The rate of onset of clinical signs significantly influenced the clinical outcome (P=0·01) but not the length of recovery time (P=0·45). Conversely, the duration of clinical signs did not seem to significantly affect the outcome (P=0·27), but did affect the length of recovery time (P=0·001). Animals which had shown clinical signs for more than six days took significantly longer to regain the ability to walk (ie, an additional 6·9 days, P=0·04 and 4·5 days, P=0·01), when compared with those which had shown clinical signs for less than two days, or more than two but less than six days, respectively.
Food sensitivity in the dog: a quantitative study
Authors: Chesney C. J.
Published: February 2006

Over a period of one year, 251 dogs were presented to a UK‐based dermatology referral clinic. Eighty‐five of these were either diagnosed as having symptoms compatible with atopy (58 dogs), or suffered from chronic otitis or recurrent pyoderma. All 85 were placed on a carefully restricted diet for eight to nine weeks in an attempt to establish whether the symptoms were due to food sensitivity. In total, 19 were shown to have food sensitivity, representing 7·6 per cent of all dogs presented to the clinic, and one‐third (32·7 per cent) of those dogs with signs compatible with a diagnosis of atopy. In five dogs with proven food sensitivity, otitis was the principal clinical sign and, in two others, recurrent pyoderma. In the population studied, labradors appeared to be predisposed to the condition. Improvement was monitored by asking owners to assess their dog's symptoms on an ordinal scale of pruritus. In those cases in which food sensitivity was confirmed, significant reduction in pruritus occurred. Most of these could be maintained long term on a commercial restricted‐component diet. Particular effort was made to ensure owner compliance with the diet trials, using an explanation and model based upon a Venn diagram showing assumed links between atopy and several‘flare factors’. It was found that this approach significantly enhanced client understanding and cooperation. It is concluded that a careful approach, monitored by active clinical audit, will help to establish the true incidence of food sensitivity.
Comparison of vedaprofen and meloxicam in dogs with musculoskeletal pain and inflammation
Authors: Nell T. , Bergman J. , Hoeijmakers M. , Van Laar P. , Horspool L. J. I.
Published: February 2006

In this randomised, multicentre clinical study, dogs with musculoskeletal pain and inflammation were treated with either vedaprofen or meloxicam administered orally at the recommended dose rates. Clinical examinations were carried out regularly and clinical severity scores assigned. In total, 214 cases (73 acute, 141 chronic) were evaluated. Treatment with vedaprofen and meloxicam was continued for 14 and 17 days, respectively, in the acute cases, and 38 and 39 days in the chronic cases. NSAID treatment resulted in a significant improvement in clinical scores. The overall response to treatment (‘responders’) at the final clinical examination was 89 per cent and 87 per cent in the acute cases and 72 per cent and 65 per cent in the chronic cases in the vedaprofen and meloxicam groups, respectively. Mild transient gastrointestinal signs were observed in both groups (11 per cent vedaprofen, 12 per cent meloxicam). Adverse effects related to NSAIDs resulted in treatment cessation in 5 per cent of the dogs in each group. Vedaprofen and meloxicam were efficacious in, and well tolerated by, most of the dogs in the study.
Urinoma (para‐ureteral pseudocyst) as a consequence of trauma in a cat
Authors: Moores A. P. , Bell A. M. D. , Costello M.
Published: February 2006

A two‐year‐old cat was involved in a road traffic accident. Survey abdominal radiographs and urinary function were considered unremarkable. Six weeks later the cat presented with a palpable dorsal abdominal mass. Radiography revealed a soft tissue opacity mass caudal to the right kidney. Ultrasonography revealed a cyst‐like structure with moderately echogenic contents, and right‐sided hydronephrosis. There was no excretion of contrast medium from the right kidney after intravenous urography. Surgery revealed a disrupted right ureter adherent to the retroperitoneal mass. The mass contained serosanguineous fluid consistent with extravasated urine. Ureteronephrectomy was performed. The majority of the mass was excised and the cavity ablated. Histopathology of the excised tissue revealed a thick fibrous wall with no epithelial lining, consistent with a urinoma, which is thought to have developed as a consequence of ureteral trauma. The cat was clinically well three months postoperatively.
Perianal rhabdomyosarcoma in a dog
Authors: Ueno H. , Kadosawa T. , Isomura H. , Okada Y. , Ochiai K. , Umemura T. , Okumura M. , Fujinaga T.
Published: February 2006

A perianal rhabdomyosarcoma was diagnosed in an 11‐year‐old neutered male Labrador retriever. Following two incomplete surgical excisions of the tumour, the dog was treated by means of surgery combined with local radiotherapy and systemic chemotherapy using one cycle of vincristine sulphate, doxorubicin and cyclophosphamide (VAC protocol). The dog died 252 days after the first combined therapy. Radiography at this time demonstrated enlargement of the iliac lymph nodes, suggesting metastasis of the tumour. To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first report of treatment of canine perianal rhabdomyosarcoma.
Lymphoma in a rabbit: histopathological and immunohistochemical findings
Authors: Gómez L. , Gázquez A. , Roncero V. , Sánchez C. , Durán M. E.
Published: February 2006

Lymphoma is a very common lymphoid neoplasm in domestic animals, but few naturally occurring cases have been reported in rabbits. It presents at different sites within rabbits and, although the macroscopic pattern tends to be similar, different cell populations may be involved. This report describes a case of spontaneous lymphoma ocurring in a two‐and‐a‐half‐year‐old pet Dutch dwarf rabbit. T and B lymphocyte infiltrates were observed in skin, lung, kidney, liver, intestine and lymph nodes, in each case affecting one or more tissue structures. The diagnosis, based on microscopic and immunocytochemical findings, was multicentric, T cell‐rich B cell lymphoma with skin involvement.
Pathogenesis and outcome of extrahepatic biliary obstruction in cats
Authors: Mayhew P. D. , Holt D. E. , McLear R. C. , Washabau R. J.
Published: February 2006

Extrahepatic biliary obstruction (EHBO) was confirmed at surgery or necropsy in 22 cats. Biliary or pancreatic adenocarcinoma was diagnosed by histopathology in six cats and one cat had an undiagnosed mass in the common bile duct. The remaining 15 cats had at least one of a complex of inflammatory diseases including pancreatitis, cholangiohepatitis, cholelithiasis and cholecystitis. The most common clinical signs were jaundice, anorexia, lethargy, weight loss and vomiting. Hyperbilirubinaemia was present in all cases. Distension of the common bile duct and gall bladder was the most commonly observed finding on abdominal ultrasound. Nineteen cats underwent exploratory laparotomy for biliary decompression and diversion. Mortality in cats with underlying neoplasia was 100 per cent and, in those with non‐neoplastic lesions, was 40 per cent. Long‐term complications, in those that survived, included recurrence of cholangiohepatitis, chronic weight loss and recurrence of obstruction. Based on these findings, the prognosis for EHBO in cats must be considered guarded.
Orthopaedics
Authors: Godfrey D. R.
Published: February 2006

Practice records from November 1994 to April 2000 were searched for cats with a diagnosis of osteoarthritis (OA). Signalment, historical features and findings, treatment and response to treatment were recorded with the aim of planning prospective studies. Thirty‐one cases were found. The average age at presentation was 13·8 years (range, nine to 17 years); 67 per cent were female and 33 per cent male. Clinical signs noted included chronic changes of stiff/abnormal gait (12), difficulty/reluctance in jumping (20) and reluctance to move (five). Eleven cases had acute or chronic lameness. Seven of the records indicated that the cat had been overweight. Physical findings included thickened joints (23), pain on joint manipulation (seven) and crepitus (four).Twenty cases had been radiographed. Findings included osteophytes (14), sclerosis (10), periosteal new bone (four) and remodelling (three). Routine blood tests were performed in 15 cats and showed single abnormalities in five cases. Concurrent diseases diagnosed included hyperthyroidism, dental diseases and chronic renal failure. The final diagnosis had been based on the history, examination, diagnostic tests and response to treatment. The joints thought to have been affected by OA were as follows: bilateral elbows (12), bilateral stifles (four), bilateral elbows and stifles (four), unilateral elbow (three), bilateral hips (two), other combinations of joints (six). Seventeen cats had both meloxicam treatment and a follow‐up examination (they may have had concurrent treatments). The clinical notes recorded whether the owners considered there to have been an improvement: three showed marked improvement, 11 showed moderate improvement, one showed no improvement, one had an inconclusive response, and side effects stopped treatment in one. One cat showed a marked improvement after treatment with courses of pentosan polysulphate.
High rise syndrome with impalement in three cats
Authors: Pratschke K. M. , Kirby B. M.
Published: February 2006

Three cats were presented for management of impalement injuries sustained following falls from second storey windows onto spiked metal railings. Two cats presented with penetrating thoracic wounds and extensive pulmonary parenchymal trauma, while one presented with abdominal impalement and splenic rupture. Following stabilisation, all three cats underwent exploratory surgery. A good outcome was achieved in two of the cats: one with thoracic and one with abdominal penetration. Impalement injury secondary to free fall is a previously unreported variation of‘high rise syndrome’ in cats.
Comparison between meloxicam and carprofen for postoperative analgesia after feline ovariohysterectomy
Authors: Slingsby L. S. , Watterman‐Pearson A. E.
Published: February 2006

Eighty female cats presented for ovariohysterectomy were randomly allocated to one of two treatment groups in this assessor‐blinded trial. After pre‐anaesthetic assessment, the cats were premedicated with acepromazine (0·1 mg/kg). Anaesthesia was induced with thiopentone and maintained with halothane in oxygen. Forty cats received carprofen (4 mg/kg subcutaneously) and 40 received meloxicam (0·3 mg/kg subcutaneously) after anaesthetic induction. Following routine flank ovariohysterectomy the cats were assessed using visual analogue scale scores for pain and sedation over a 20‐hour study period. Blood samples were taken before sedation and at 20 hours for serum biochemistry (urea, creatinine, alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase). There were no significant differences between the groups for pain and sedation scores. Serum biochemistry values were similar between the groups, with some differences within groups between the pre‐sedation and 20‐hour values. One cat in the carprofen group and two cats in the meloxicam group required rescue analgesia with intramuscular morphine (0·2 mg/kg).
Acute onset quadriparesis as a sequela to an oropharyngeal stick injury
Authors: Rayward R. M.
Published: February 2006

A three‐year‐old male neutered crossbred dog was referred for investigation of acute onset quadriparesis, which had occurred following an oropharyngeal stick injury. Myelography revealed a right‐sided extradural lesion overlying the C5/6 intervertebral disc space. A dorsolateral hemilaminectomy was performed at this site and two fragments of wood were removed from the vertebral canal adjacent to the spinal cord. The dog was ambulatory with right‐sided forelimb monoparesis within a week of surgery and improved further following discharge. Three months following surgery, the dog was exercising freely with only mild right forelimb lameness.
Urinary tract infection caused by Corynebacterium urealyticum in a dog
Authors: Suarez M. L. , Espino L. , Vila M. , Santamarina G.
Published: February 2006

Urinary tract infection (UTI) caused by Corynebacterium urealyticum is a rarely recognised condition in veterinary medicine. This report describes a case in a 13‐month‐old dog which presented with a history of dysuria and haematuria. C urealyticum was identified as the cause of UTI. The clinical, radiological and ultrasonographic features and the results of urinalysis and urine bacteriological culture are described, as are the therapeutic challenges presented by this particular infection.
Transient post‐traumatic hemidiaphragmatic paralysis in two cats
Authors: Vignoli M. , Toniato M. , Rossi F. , Terragni R. , Manzini M. , Franchi A. , Pozzi L.
Published: February 2006

A diagnosis of post‐traumatic hemidiaphragmatic paralysis was made in two cats. Both cats had a history of trauma and paradoxical inward movement of the abdominal wall at inspiration. Thoracic radiographs were taken at inspiration and expiration. Although the images were suggestive of hemidiaphragmatic paralysis, definitive diagnosis was reached by fluoroscopy in one cat and by ultrasonography in the second. Both cases resolved spontaneously and diaphragmatic function was normal at follow‐up.
Treatment and therapeutic monitoring of canine hypothyroidism
Authors: Dixon R. M. , Reid S. W. J. , Mooney C. T.
Published: February 2006

Thirty‐one dogs with spontaneous hypothyroidism were treated with thyroid hormone replacement therapy (THRT) and monitored for approximately three months. Good clinical and laboratory control was ultimately achieved in all cases with a mean L‐thyroxine (T4) dose of 0·026 mg/kg administered once daily. There was a significant increase and decrease in circulating total T4and canine thyroid stimulating hormone (cTSH) concentrations, respectively, after starting THRT. After commencing treatment, 11 cases subsequently required an increase and three cases required a decrease in dose to achieve optimal clinical control. Median (semi interquartile range [SIR]) circulating six‐hour post‐pill total T4(53·6 [27·9] nmol/litre) and cTSH (0·03 [0] μg/litre) concentrations were significantly increased and decreased, respectively, in treated dogs that did not require a dose change; corresponding values in treated dogs in which an increase in dose was required were 29·3 (12·7) nmol/litre and 0·15 (0·62) μg/litre, respectively. However, circulating cTSH measurement was of limited value in assessing therapeutic control because, although increased values were associated with inadequate therapy, reference range cTSH values were common in inadequately treated dogs. Lethargy and mental demeanour were typically the first clinical signs to improve, with significant bodyweight reduction occurring within two weeks of commencing THRT. Routine clinicopathological monitoring was of value in confirming a general metabolic response to THRT, but was of limited value in accurately monitoring cases or tailoring therapy in individual cases.
Transposition of the sacrotuberous ligament for the treatment of coxofemoral luxation in dogs
Authors: Kiliç E. , Ozaydin I. , Atalan G. , Baran V.
Published: February 2006

A surgical technique is described for transposition of the sacrotuberous ligament to replace the teres ligament in the treatment of coxofemoral luxation in dogs. Ten dogs with coxofemoral luxation were treated using this technique and all animals regained full limb function within two months of surgery. It is suggested that the technique could be employed in dogs suffering from all types of hip luxations.
Ulcerative otitis externa responsive to immunosuppressive therapy in two dogs
Authors: Hendricks A. , Brooks H. , Pocknell A. , Bond R.
Published: February 2006

Two middle‐aged dogs were presented with bilateral severe ulcerative otitis externa without previous history of disease or evidence of other skin disease. Based on the exclusion of microbial infection and other primary causes, histopathological findings and response to immunomodulatory treatment, a diagnosis of presumed immune‐mediated ulcerative otitis externa was made in both cases. However, the two cases differed with regard to their histopathological characteristics and the course of the disease. This report indicates that primary ulcerative disease needs to be considered in cases of ulcerative otitis externa which are unresponsive to appropriate antimicrobial therapy.
Immunohistochemical characterization of the lesions of canine idiopathic pericarditis
Authors: Day M. J. , Martin M. W. S.
Published: February 2006

Pericardial tissue was obtained from 14 dogs with idiopathic pericarditis, and from three dogs with pericardial effusion associated with neoplastic disease, for histopathological assessment and characterisation of infiltrating leucocytes by immunohistochemistry. The major pathological change was extensive pericardial fibrosis which was generally accompanied by a mixed inflammatory response that was of greatest intensity at the cardiac surface of the tissue. Perivascular lymphoplasmacytic aggregates were present at the pleural surface and within the fibrosed pericardium. There were no features that clearly distinguished the samples from dogs with neoplastic disease from dogs with idiopathic pericarditis. The pericardial infiltrates were dominated by MAC 387+ monocyte‐macrophages and plasma cells expressing immunoglobulin (Ig)A or IgG. CD3+ T lymphocytes and major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class II+ macrophages were less common, although the perivascular aggregates were mixtures of T and B lymphocytes and a proportion of fibroblasts expressed MHC class II. There was no vascular pathology or deposition of immunoglobulin or complement within vessel walls. These findings are consistent with an immune response dominated by humoral effector mechanisms (Th2 immunity) but do not clearly support a primary immune‐mediated pathogenesis for idiopathic pericarditis.
Canine and feline pyothorax: a retrospective study of 50 cases in the UK and Ireland
Authors: Demetriou J. L. , Foale R. D. , Ladlow J. , McGrotty Y. , Faulkner J. , Kirby B. M.
Published: February 2006

Fifty cases (36 dogs and 14 cats) with a confirmed diagnosis of pyothorax were evaluated from five referral institutions in the UK and Ireland. Aetiology, clinical presentation, diagnosis, treatment and outcome of all cases were examined. The underlying cause of pyothorax was determined in 18 per cent of cases. Positive bacteriological cultures of the pleural fluid were obtained in 68·7 per cent of the animals. Treatment modalities included surgery and medical management, involving thoracostomy tube placement, thoracic aspiration, thoracic lavage and antimicrobial therapy. A successful outcome was achieved in 86 per cent of patients.
Fluorangiographic alterations in a dog with suspected iatrogenic partial carotid artery occlusion
Authors: Martin E. , Redondo J. I. , Gómez‐Villamandos R. J. , López R. , Santisteban J. M. , Molleda J. M.
Published: February 2006

During routine fluorescein angiography, a healthy female dog demonstrated abnormal delayed filling of retinal and choroidal vessels. Fluorangiographic times were increased four‐ to fivefold with respect to reference values. Fluorescein angiography, using the same protocol, was repeated two weeks later and a fluorangiogram within reference values was obtained. The abnormal results in the first procedure were suspected to have resulted from partial occlusion of the carotid artery secondary to the restraining method used.
Idiopathic hepatic veno‐occlusive disease causing Budd‐Chiari‐like syndrome in a cat
Authors: Cave T. A. , Martineau H. , Dickie A. , Thompson H. , Argyle D. J.
Published: February 2006

Budd‐Chiari‐like syndrome (BCLS) is a rare clinical entity characterised by portal hypertension and ascites. This report describes a case of BCLS in a cat due to obstruction at the level of the hepatic veins. The diagnosis was based on the clinical findings and a histopathological assessment of the liver demonstrating perivenular fibrosis around the central and sublobular veins. Although these lesions are similar to those observed in man with BCLS, the aetiology in this case remains unknown.
Renal abscess in a dog with transient diabetes mellitus
Authors: Hess R. S. , Ilan I.
Published: February 2006

A nine‐year‐old, intact female dalmatian with diabetes mellitus and a renal abscess is described. The renal abscess was treated surgically by nephrectomy, and the diabetes mellitus resolved with ovariohysterectomy. Abdominal ultrasound and ultrasound‐guided aspiration of the abscess were helpful in establishing a diagnosis. To the authors’knowledge, this is the first report of a renal abscess in a dog with diabetes mellitus.
Panniculitis associated with pancreatitis in a cocker spaniel
Authors: Mellanby R. J. , Stell A. , Baines E. , Chantrey J. C. , Herrtage M. E.
Published: February 2006

A 13‐year‐old, male cocker spaniel presented with a history of inappetence, depression and reluctance to stand. The dog had multiple, ulcerated skin lesions which were diagnosed as panniculitis by histopathology. A diagnosis of pancreatitis was made on the basis of markedly elevated serum lipase concentrations, abdominal ultrasonography which showed an abnormal lobulated area of hypoechoic tissue in the body and right lobe of the pancreas, and a fine needle biopsy from this area which revealed large numbers of degenerate neutrophils. After treatment with antibiotics and prednisolone, the dog made a full clinical recovery and was free of clinical signs for four months. The dog was euthanased five months later and postmortem examination revealed chronic, active pancreatitis and a pancreatic adenoma. This is the first report of antemortem diagnosis of pancreatitis and panniculitis in a dog.
Evaluation of a continuous glucose monitoring system in diabetic dogs
Authors: Davison L. J. , Slater L. A. , Herrtage M. E. , Church D. B. , Judge S. , Ristic J. M. E. , Catchpole B.
Published: February 2006

The generation of a blood glucose curve is important for assessing the response to insulin therapy in diabetic dogs. Disadvantages of this technique include patient discomfort and the potential for missing transient hypo‐ or hyperglycaemic episodes. The aim of the current study was to evaluate a continuous glucose monitoring system (CGMS) for use in diabetic dogs. Interstitial fluid glucose concentrations were recorded in 10 diabetic dogs, every five minutes for up to 48 hours, using a subcutaneous sensor attached to the CGMS device. Blood glucose concentrations were measured simultaneously using a glucometer. The correlation between interstitial fluid and blood glucose values was 0·81 (P<0·01). The largest discrepancies between the two sets of data were seen during the one‐ to three‐hour period following feeding, suggesting that postprandial hyperglycaemia might not be reflected in the interstitial fluid. The authors conclude that the CGMS is a potentially valuable tool in the management of canine diabetic patients.
Analysis of canine and feline haemograms using the VetScan HMT analyser
Authors: Dewhurst E. C. , Crawford E. , Cue S. , Dodkin S. , German A. J. , Papasouliotis K.
Published: February 2006

The VetScan HMT is an impedance counter haematology analyser which produces a full blood count and three‐part white blood cell differential. The aim of this study was to compare the results generated by the analyser with those obtained by standard methods used routinely in the authors’laboratory. Blood samples from 68 dogs and 59 cats were run on the VetScan HMT analyser and also subjected to reference methods, and the results obtained were compared. Correlation coefficients (feline/canine) were: 0·97/0·99 for haematocrit (Hct), 0*middot;98/0·99 for haemoglobin (Hb), 0·81/0·98 for total white blood cells (WBC), and 0·89/0·97 for granulocyte and 0·65/0·93 for platelet counts. Coefficients for lymphocyte counts were 0·25/0·28 and for monocyte counts were 0·12/0·79. In conclusion, the VetScan HMT performed well on canine samples, showing excellent correlation for canine Hct, Hb, RBC, WBC, granulocyte and platelet counts. For feline samples, although there was excellent correlation for Hct, Hb and RBC, the WBC and three‐part white blood cell differential and platelet count should be interpreted with caution as they can be unreliable.
Passive liver congestion associated with caudal vena caval compression due to oesophageal leiomyoma
Authors: Rollois M. , Ruel Y. , Besso J. G.
Published: February 2006

A large caudodorsal mediastinal mass was identified in a dog which had been presented for vomiting and anorexia. A few weeks later, the dog developed ascites and hindlimb oedema. Radiography showed that the caudodorsal mediastinal mass was compressing the caudal vena cava, probably inducing passive congestion of the liver. At postmortem examination, the mass was diagnosed as a large oesophageal leiomyoma. To the authors’knowledge, an oesophageal tumour leading to compression of the caudal vena cava associated with passive congestion of the liver has not been described previously in dogs. Secondary signs relating to the oesophageal mass appeared to be more prominent than the digestive signs. Causes of passive congestion of the liver and the differential diagnoses for a caudodorsal mediastinal mass are discussed.
Pulmonary adenocarcinoma with osteoblastic bone metastases in a cat
Authors: Nakanishi M. , Kuwamura M. , Ueno M. , Yasuda K. , Yamate J. , Shimada T.
Published: February 2006

A 12‐year‐old male cat with depression and dyspnoea was presented for investigation. Radiography and computed tomography revealed hydrothorax and solid masses involving the sternum, ribs and thoracic vertebrae. The cat died two days after first presentation, and postmortem examination revealed lung masses and proliferative bony lesions. Histologically, a neoplastic proliferation of epithelial cells was seen in the lungs, with a large amount of collagen and deposits of cholesterin. The bone lesions were also composed of neoplastic epithelial cells and abundant calcified osteoid, without atypia. A diagnosis of pulmonary adenocarcinoma with osteoblastic bone metastases was made. This is the first reported case of osteoblastic metastases in the cat.
Retroflexion of the urinary bladder associated with a perineal hernia in a female cat
Authors: Risselada M. , Kramer M. , Van de Velde B. , Poils I. , Görtz K.
Published: February 2006

A case of retroflexion of the urinary bladder into a bilateral perineal hernia in a female domestic shorthaired cat, three weeks postpartum, is reported. The bladder was repositioned and a cystopexy performed. A pelvic ostectomy was also carried out in order to alleviate the narrowing of the pelvic canal caused by an untreated acetabular fracture. Bilateral perineal herniorrhaphy was performed.
Progressive myoclonus epilepsy in a beagle
Authors: Gredal H. , Berendt M. , Leifsson P. S.
Published: February 2006

A nine‐year‐old, neutered female beagle was presented with a history of progressive myoclonic jerks. Clinical signs included mental depression and paroxysmal jerks of the head and forelimbs, apparently elicited by changes in light, noise or movements. Electroencephalographic findings were in accordance with myoclonus epilepsy. Postmortem histopathological findings included multiple periodic acid‐Schiff‐positive inclusion bodies throughout the central nervous system, but especially in the cerebellum, confirming the suspected diagnosis of Lafora's disease.
Comparison of three distraction methods and conventional radiography for early diagnosis of canine hip dysplasia
Authors: Ohlerth S. , Busato A. , Rauch M. , Weber U. , Lang J.
Published: February 2006

Two radiographic distraction techniques (one employing a wooden lath and, the other, a PennHip distractor), an ultrasonographic distraction method and conventional radiographic Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) hip score were evaluated in eight‐month‐old Labrador retrievers to determine the most reliable method for predicting radiographic FCI hip score at the age of one year. With reference to the FCI hip score, sensitivity and specificity of the PennHip method were 100 per cent and 54 per cent; sensitivity and specificity of the lath technique were 85 per cent and 71 per cent; whereas they were 62 per cent and 67 per cent for the ultrasonographic method. For all distraction methods, the positive predictive value (PPV) was moderate and the negative predictive value (NPV) was high. Sensitivity, specificity, PPV and NPV were 100 per cent for the FCI hip score. It is concluded that, at the age of eight months, FCI hip score is the most reliable method for predicting FCI hip score at the age of one year in the colony of dogs investigated. Both the PennHip and lath method were also clinically reliable techniques in predicting true negatives. The ultrasonographic distraction method was moderately reliable.
Assessment of a pyrogallol red technique for total protein measurement in the cerebrospinal fluid of dogs
Authors: Behr S. , Trumel C. , Palanché F. , Braun J. P.
Published: February 2006

The measurement of protein concentration in the cerebrospinal fluid is a basic analytical method in neurology. In this study, a pyrogallol red technique using a human albumin calibrator previously validated in human medicine was tested for canine samples, and the results were compared with those obtained using urine test strips. Pyrogallol red significantly (P<0·05) but moderately underestimated purified dog albumin and globulins. The imprecision of the technique was low: intra‐ and between‐series coefficients of variation were 1·6 and 4·3 per cent at protein concentrations of about 0·3 g/litre. Over 49 samples, there was good agreement between the pyrogallol red and test strip results (r=0·63), especially for low and high protein concentrations, but misclassifications were observed with‘+’test strip readings.
Use of computed tomography in the diseased feline thorax
Authors: Henninger W.
Published: February 2006

Computed tomography (CT) scanning of the thorax is gaining more attention in veterinary medicine as therapeutic possibilities increase. Plain and contrast‐enhanced CT images of the thorax of five referred cats with signs of respiratory disease were evaluated using soft tissue (pleural) and lung windows. The common CT pattern in all cats was involvement of the lung lobes, either as a homogeneous or heterogeneous single lobe hyperdensity. It involved the main bronchus, invaded the cranial or caudal mediastinum, and crossed the border to the opposite lung. Right lung atelectasis and mediastinal shift caused left lung overinflation. Bronchial lymph node enlargement was found unilaterally or bilaterally. CT‐guided percutaneous fine needle aspiration biopsy of the lobar lung lesion was performed in four cats; in three cases it revealed carcinoma and in one inflammation, although the cat with suspected inflammation was subsequently found to have a carcinoma on lung lobectomy. Histopathology confirmed lung metastasis in one case and bronchial adenocarcinoma in four cases. A protocol for systematic examination of thoracic CT images is proposed.
Mixed germ cell tumour of the spinal cord in a young dog
Authors: Ferreira A. J. A. , Peleteiro M. C. , Carvalho T. , Correia J. M. J. , Schulman F. Y. , Summers B. A.
Published: February 2006

A spinal cord mixed germ cell tumour was identified in a two‐year‐old, female Airedale terrier with a history of progressive paraplegia. At necropsy, a discrete pale pink spinal cord mass was identified at the L5 vertebra, which extensively invaded the associated spinal cord segments L6 and L7. Histologically, the tumour was located within the subarachnoid space and invaded the spinal cord. It was composed of three different types of cells: small round cells, forming clusters or islands, similar to germ cells identified in testicular germinomas; large cells with eosinophilic or amphophilic cytoplasm, forming trabeculae; and a third, rarer type of well differentiated epithelial cells, forming acinar or tubular structures. Immunohistochemical examination revealed reactivity to antibodies against alpha‐fetoprotein and broad spectrum cytokeratins. The composition, cytological features and immunohistochemical staining of this neoplasm are similar to germ cell tumours previously reported in the suprasellar region and in the eye of dogs.
Ocular manifestation of disseminatedMycobacterium simiaeinfection in a cat
Authors: Dietrich U. , Arnold P. , Guscetti F. , Pfyffer G. E. , Spiess B.
Published: February 2006

Disseminated mycobacterial disease was diagnosed in an eight‐year‐old domestic shorthaired cat, with involvement of the skin, lungs, lymph nodes and one eye.Mycobacterium simiaewas cultured from skin biopsies on solid agar and in liquid media. This organism is known to cause pulmonary, cutaneous or disseminated infection in human patients with acquired immunodeficiency syndrome but has never been encountered as a pathogen in companion animals. Combination treatment with rifampicin, enrofloxacin and clarithromycin resulted in complete clinical remission within six months, with no side effects. No recurrence was observed in a 22‐month follow‐up period.
Dermatitis associated with Dirofilaria repens microfilariae in three dogs in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Tarello W.
Published: February 2006

The presence of microfilariae of the zoonotic nematode Dirofilaria repens is reported in three dogs from Saudi Arabia, manifesting as pruritic dermatitis with signs including erythema, alopecia, papules, crusting and hyperkeratosis. All dogs were found to have concurrent babesiosis. Specific treatments against the two conditions led to complete clinical recovery and disappearance of microfilariae from the blood one month later.
Medulloblastoma in a cat: clinical and MRI findings
Authors: Kitagawa M. , Koie H. , Kanayamat K. , Sakai T.
Published: February 2006

A two‐year‐old, castrated crossbred cat presented with loss of balance and anorexia. A mass of the caudal aspect of the cerebellum was revealed by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The mass was hypointense on T1‐weighted images, iso‐ and hyperintense on T2‐weighted images and was enhanced by intravenous gadolinium contrast medium. The MRI characteristics of this case were similar to those of medulloblastoma of the cerebellar vermis in humans. The authors were able to remove almost all of the tumour. The cat was discharged from hospital on day 22 after surgery, but died on day 45. The excised tissue was histologically diagnosed as medulloblastoma.
Assessment of an ECG event recorder in healthy dogs in a hospital environment
Authors: Eastwood J. M. , Elwood C. M.
Published: February 2006

Ambulatory electrocardiography techniques are superior to standard electrocardiography in evaluating rhythm disturbances in dogs with episodic weakness or collapse. Disadvantages include cumbersome equipment, short recording periods and an inherent delay in trace analysis. A small programmable cardiac event recorder with combined automatic and owner‐triggered recording capability was evaluated in 13 healthy dogs in a hospital environment. The unit was well tolerated and produced diagnostic recordings directly to a personal computer, with useful information about continuous heart rate. It detects premature complexes, pauses and bradycardias according to programmed detection thresholds. These events were counted frequently but trace review revealed concerns regarding specificity. Recordings were often triggered by sinus arrhythmia, sinus tachycardia and unclassifiable rate changes rather than by clinically significant arrhythmias. Correct detection of ventricular ectopic complexes, a single supraventricular premature complex, sinus arrest and second‐degree atrioventricular block occurred in individual dogs. Visual review of all automatically recorded events was essential and significantly increased the time required for event recording analysis. Manual recordings might be more useful and the overall results suggest that further studies are warranted to evaluate the system in clinical cases in the home environment.
Two chondrosarcomas in the uretha of a German shepherd dog
Authors: Davis G. J. , Holt D.
Published: February 2006

An eight‐year‐old, male castrated German shepherd dog was presented with signs consistent with urinary obstruction. Cystoscopy and contrast radiography showed two distinct urethral masses. Penile amputation and perineal urethrostomy were performed to alleviate the clinical signs. Histopathology of the masses revealed two low‐grade chondrosarcomas. At the time of writing, 18 months after surgery, the dog remained disease free.
Cessation of feline calicivirus shedding coincident with resolution of chronic gingivostomatitis in a cat
Authors: Addie D. D. , Radford A. , Yam P. S. , Taylor D. J.
Published: February 2006

Feline calicivirus (FCV) shedding and oral bacterial flora were monitored over a period of 22 months in a case of feline gingivostomatitis (FGS). The cat was treated daily with 50 mg thalidomide capsules by mouth, and 200 mg lactoferrin powder was applied directly to the lesions. Clinical signs began to resolve after 11 months when, in addition to treatment, the diet had been changed to an additive‐free cat food supplemented with antioxidant vitamins A, D3 and E. Resolution of clinical signs of FGS coincided with the cessation of FCV shedding, and this is the first report documenting such an association. Which part of the treatment, if any, contributed to the cure requires further investigation.