bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of leukocytosis, bacteremia, and portal vein partial oxygen tension in clinically normal dogs and dogs with portosystemic shunts
Authors: Tobias Karen M. Swalec , Besser Thomas E.
Published: December 2023

Objective

To assees the relationship of WBC counts and partial oxygen tension in the portal vein and caudal vena cava with portal bacteremia, bacteria in the liver, and postoperative morbidity and mortality in dogs with portosystemic shunts.

Design

Prospective study.

Animals

12 clinically normal dogs and 15 dogs with single congenital portosystemic shunts.

Procedure

Blood was collected from the portal vein and caudal vena cava for aerobic and anaerobic bacterial culture, WBC count, and measurement of partial oxygen tension. Samples of liver tissue, indwelling catheters, and fluids administered IV were also obtained for bacterial culture.

Results

Bacteria were cultured from samples obtained from the portal vein and caudal vena cava of 1 dog with a shunt and from the caudal vena cava of 1 clinically normal dog; neither dog had postoperative complications. In dogs with shunts and in clinically normal dogs, partial oxygen tension in the portal vein was significantly greater than that in the caudal vena cava. Postoperative complications were identified in 33% of dogs with shunts. Partial oxygen tensions of dogs with shunts with postoperative complications did not significantly differ from those of all dogs with shunts or dogs with shunts without complications. Significant differences in WBC counts were not found when comparing dogs with shunts with and without complications. Anaerobic bacteria were not cultured from the liver of any dog.

Clinical Implications

Leukocytosis, portal bacteremia, and portal hypoxemia were not notable findings in dogs with shunts and were not correlated with postoperative morbidity or mortality. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1997;211:715–718)
Femoral artery occlusion in Cavalier King Charles Spaniels
Authors: Buchanan James W. , Beardow Andrew W. , Sammarco Carl D.
Published: December 2023

Objective

To investigate development of femoral artery occlusion in Cavalier King Charles Spaniels.

Design

Prospective study.

Animals

954 Cavalier King Charles Spaniels.

Procedure

1,750 cardiovascular examinations consisting of visual inspection of mucous membranes, thoracic auscultation in areas associated with the heart valves, thoracic palpation, and palpation of the femoral arteries were made at 10 dog shows on 954 dogs. Findings of clinically normal, weak, or undetectable femoral pulses were recorded. Pathologic changes in occluded femoral arteries of 2 dogs were examined histologically.

Results

Of the 954 dogs, 22 (2.3%) had an undetectable right or left femoral pulse on 1 or more examinations. Forty (4.2%) additional dogs had weak unilateral or bilateral femoral pulses. Only 1 dog had exercise intolerance, and it had coexistent congestive heart failure. Histologic examination of serial sections of an occluded femoral artery from 1 dog revealed intimai thickening with breaks in the internal elastic lamina proximal to the occluded segment. The occluded segment of the femoral artery was contracted and filled with an organizing, recanalizing thrombus. Similar histopathologic changes were found in sections of a femoral artery from another dog.

Clinical Implications

Femoral artery occlusion is rare in other breeds and is not clinically important in dogs because of adequate collateral circulation; however, its rather common development in Cavalier King Charles Spaniels indicates a genetic predisposition and probable weakness in the femoral artery wall. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1997;211:872–874)
Use of antibiotic-impregnated polymethyl methacrylate in horses with open or infected fractures or joints: 19 cases (1987–1995)
Authors: Holcombe Susan J. , Schneider Robert K. , Bramlage Lawrence R. , Embertson Rolf M.
Published: December 2023

Objective

To evaluate the clinical efficacy of antibiotic-impregnated polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) in horses with open or infected fractures or joints in which internal fixation or external coaptation devices were used.

Design

Retrospective case series,

Animals

19 horses in which antibiotic-impregnated PMMA was used as part of the treatment regimen.

Procedures

Medical records of each horse were reviewed, and owners and trainers were contacted to provide additional information.

Results

Musculoskeletal problems in these horses included 10 fractures of long bones, 2 comminuted phalangeal fractures, 5 joint injuries, and 2 chronically septic joints in which ankylosis was stimulated. Nine horses had open fractures, 8 had closed wounds and developed infection after internal fixation of fractures, and 2 had chronically septic joints. Bony union was achieved in 15 of 19 horses. Twelve horses were discharged from the hospital and survived long term. Gentamicin sulfate, tobramycin sulfate, amikacin sulfate, and cefazolin sodium were used in PMMA.

Clinical Implications

Use of antibiotic-impregnated PMMA provided high local concentrations of antibiotics and should be considered in the treatment of horses with open fractures and acute and chronic bone and joint infections. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1997; 211:889–893)
Evaluation of exploratory laparotomy in young horses: 102 cases (1987-1992)
Authors: Singer Ellen R. , Livesey Michael A.
Published: December 2023

Objective

To determine, in a population of young horses, whether a variation exists among neonates, sucklings, weanlings, and yearlings regarding recovery from anesthesia, short- and long-term survival rates, and postoperative adhesion formation following exploratory laparotomy.

Design

Retrospective study.

Animals

102 horses < 25 months old that underwent exploratory laparotomy.

Procedure

Pre-, intra-, and postoperative information was retrieved from medical records, conversations with referring veterinarians, owners, or trainers, and race records. Survival rates (recovery from anesthesia and short- and long-term survival) were compared with age, lesion type, lesion location, surgical procedure, and development of clinically important postoperative intestinal adhesions.

Results

Of the 73 horses that recovered from anesthesia, 69 were available for follow-up. Of the 69 horses, 7 (10%) died of complications associated with formation of intestinal adhesions. Age did not affect incidence of adhesion formation, lesion type, lesion location, or surgical procedure performed. Long-term survival rate after surgery for correction of a small-intestinal lesion was 34%, whereas that after surgery for correction of a large-intestinal lesion was 65%.

Clinical Implications

Surgical treatment of colic in young horses resulted in survival rates that are similar to those reported for mature horses. The incidence of clinically important postoperative adhesions was greater than that found for young horses in earlier studies. This may be the result of the younger age of our study population. Alternatively, improvements in operative techniques and postoperative management may allow a larger percentage of horses to survive long term and develop complications such as adhesion formation. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1997;211:1158–1162)
Use of age and serum ɣ-glutamyltransferase activity to assess passive transfer status in lambs
Authors: Tessman Ronald K. , Tyler Jeff W. , Parish Steven M. , Johnson Dennis L. , Gant Roderick G. , Grasseschi Helen A.
Published: December 2023

Objective

To develop an algorithm for predicting passive transfer status of lambs of various ages, using the lamb's age and serum ɣ-glutamyltransferase (GGT) activity.

Design

Prospective study.

Animals

51 Suffolk, Columbia, and crossbred lambs from 1 to 16 days old.

Procedure

Serum was obtained from all lambs. Serum GGT activity was measured, using a commercially available kit. Serum IgG concentration was determined by use of radial immunodiffusion. Day-1 serum IgG concentration was estimated from sample IgG concentration, lamb age, and the published 14-day half-life of IgG in lambs. Stepwise multivariate regression models were developed to estimate day-1 serum IgG concentration as a function of the natural logarithm of serum GGT activity (In[GGT]) and natural logarithm of lamb age (In[age]) at the time of sampling. These regression models were then used to calculate serum GGT activities that were equivalent to various day-1 IgG concentrations in lambs of various ages.

Results

In(GGT) and In(age) were significantly associated with estimated day-1 IgG concentration. Day-1 serum IgG concentration could be predicted using the formula: IgG = −7,686 + 1,366(In[GGT]) + 1,199(In[age]). The model was moderately accurate in predicting serum IgG concentration (R2 = 0.52).

Clinical Implications

Serum GGT activity can be used to assess passive transfer status of lambs. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1997;211:1163–1164)
Primary lung tumors in cats: 86 cases (1979–1994)
Authors: Hahn Kevin A. , McEntee Michael F.
Published: December 2023

Objective

To classify histologic type and morphology of primary lung tumors in cats, to describe clinical findings in these cats, and to determine whether clinical findings were associated with histologic type or morphology.

Design

Retrospective study.

Animals

86 cats with histologically confirmed primary lung tumors.

Procedure

Medical records for cats treated between 1979 and 1994 at any of 14 participating veterinary referral hospitals were reviewed.

Results

Weight loss, lethargy, and dyspnea were the most common clinical signs. Solitary or multiple pulmonary masses were seen on radiographs from 53 of 79 cats; effusion was seen on radiographs from the other 26. In 45 cats, tumors involved a single lung lobe. Caudal lung lobes were more commonly affected than were cranial lung lobes. Sixty-five cats had metastases. Tumors were classified as bronchial (n = 65), bronchiolar-alveolar (9), or other (12) and as poorly differentiated (59), moderately differentiated (20), or well differentiated (7). Breed, age, sex, weight, clinical signs, duration of clinical signs, and radiographic findings were not associated with histologic type or morphology.

Clinical Implications

To identify possible occult primary lung tumors, thoracic radiography should be performed on cats with clinical signs of long duration, including weight loss, lethargy, and dyspnea. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1997;211:1257–1260)
Evaluation of a test for identification of Arabian horses heterozygous for the severe combined immunodeficiency trait
Authors: Shin Euy Kyun , Perryman Lance E. , Meek Katheryn
Published: December 2023

Objective

To determine whether a recently developed test would correctly identify horses heterozygous for the severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID) trait.

Design

Case series.

Animals

17 healthy Arabian horses that had previously produced foals with SCID, 1 healthy Arabian foal whose dam and sire had produced foals with SCID, 4 foals with SCID, and 1 healthy non-Arabian foal.

Procedure

DNA was extracted from leukocytes or fibroblasts, amplified by means of polymerase chain reaction, and hybridized with probes specific for the normal and mutant alleles of the catalytic subunit of DNA-dependent protein kinase, the factor whose absence is responsible for SCID in Arabian foals.

Results

Amplified DNA from the healthy non-Arabian foal hybridized only to the probe specific for the normal allele, whereas amplified DNA from the 4 foals with SCID hybridized only to the probe specific for the mutant allele. Amplified DNA from the 2 stallions and 15 mares hybridized with both probes, as did amplified DNA from the healthy foal whose dam and sire had previously produced foals with SCID, indicating that these horses were all heterozygous for the SCID trait.

Clinical Implications

Results suggest that the genetic test will be useful in identifying Arabian horses heterozygous for the SCID trait and foals with SCID, provided that all Arabian horses with SCID have the same genetic mutation. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1997;211:1268–1270)
Complications associated with use of a one-hole subpalpebral lavage system in horses: 150 cases (1977–1996)
Authors: Sweeney Corinne R. , Russell Gail E.
Published: December 2023

Objective

To determine type and frequency of complications associated with use of a one-hole subpalpebral lavage (SPL) system in horses.

Design

Retrospective study.

Animals

150 horses with 156 SPL systems.

Procedure

Signalment, primary complaint, method used for placement, time SPL system was in place, and complications were retrieved from medical records.

Results

Complications were not associated with placement, maintenance, or removal of 66 of 156 (42%) SPL systems. A minor complication was reported in association with 53 (34%) SPL systems, and a serious complication was reported in association with 37 (24%). The 3 most common minor complications were mild swelling of the eyelid (31 horses), tearing of SPL system tubing (20), and loss of the injection cap (30). Serious complications included problems with the SPL system requiring its premature removal and possible replacement (26 horses), removal of the SPL system by the horse (6), infection of the eyelid (4), loss of the footplate in the eyelid (5), and cornea ulceration (1).

Clinical Implications

Proper attention to the size of the footplate and placement of the SPL system in the eyelid should decrease the risk of serious complications. Minor eyelid swelling should be expected in the first 48 hours after SPL system placement. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1997;211:1271–1274)
Concentration of ionized calcium in plasma from cats with urethral obstruction
Authors: Drobatz Kenneth J. , Hughes Dez
Published: December 2023

Objective

To measure ionized calcium concentration in plasma from cats with urethral obstruction and to correlate these values with results of clinical biochemical analyses and physical examinations.

Design

Prospective study.

Animals

24 male cats.

Procedure

Blood samples were obtained from each cat on admission, and PCV, pH, and concentrations of ionized calcium, total calcium, glucose, total solids, sodium, potassium, BUN, creatinine, chloride, magnesium, albumin, and phosphorus were determined. Mentation, tissue perfusion, and ECG recordings were also assessed.

Results

18 (75%) cats had low ionized calcium concentrations (reference range, 2.4 to 2.8 mEq/L). Hypocalcemia was considered mild (2.0 to 2.36 mEq/L) in 9 (37.5%) cats, moderate (1.6 to 1.98 mEq/L) in 6 (25%), and severe (< 1.6 mEq/L) in 3 (12.5%). Significant positive correlations were found between ionized calcium concentration and heart rate, pH, and concentrations of sodium, chloride, and total calcium. Significant negative correlations were found between ionized calcium concentration and concentrations of potassium, BUN, creatinine, and phosphorus.

Clinical Implications

Most cats with urethral obstruction had a low concentration of ionized calcium. This may contribute to cardiac electrical and mechanical dysfunction in some severely affected cats. Although effects of IV administration of calcium were not evaluated, results of this study strengthen the rationale for its use in cats with urethral obstruction. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1997;211:1392–1395)
Risk factors for acquired megaesophagus in dogs
Authors: Gaynor Alison R. , Shofer Frances S. , Washabau Robert J.
Published: December 2023

Objective

To identify risk factors associated with acquired megaesophagus in dogs.

Design

Case-control study.

Animals

136 dogs with acquired megaesophagus (case dogs); 272 dogs from the general hospital population and 151 dogs that underwent thyroid-stimulating hormone response tests (control dogs). All dogs were more than 6 months old.

Procedure

Medical records of dogs in which megaesophagus was diagnosed during a 10-year period were reviewed. Inclusion criteria included regurgitation or vomiting, onset of clinical signs at more than 6 months of age, and radiographic evidence of generalized esophageal dilatation. Dogs with intra- or extraesophageal obstructive disease, brain stem disease, or neck trauma were excluded from analyses. Statistical analyses included odds ratios, 95% confidence intervals, and two-tailed t-tests. Control dogs were frequency matched to case dogs on the basis of year of diagnosis.

Results

Dogs with megaesophagus ranged from 0.75 to 18 years old (mean, 8.1 years) and were significantly older and heavier than control dogs. More males than females were affected, but sex and reproductive status were not associated with megaesophagus. German Shepherd Dogs, Golden Retrievers, and Irish Setters were at increased risk for developing megaesophagus. Peripheral neuropathies, laryngeal paralysis, acquired myasthenia gravis, esophagitis, and chronic or recurrent gastric dilatation with or without volvulus were associated with an increased risk of developing megaesophagus. Hypothyroidism was not associated with megaesophagus.

Clinical Implications

Dogs with acquired megaesophagus should be evaluated for peripheral neuropathies, laryngeal paralysis, acquired myasthenia gravis, esophagitis, and chronic or recurrent gastric dilatation with or without volvulus. These dogs may be evaluated for hypothyroidism; however, this study did not reveal a clear association between hypothyroidism and acquired megaesophagus. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1997;211:1406–1412)
Sedative effects of medetomidine and its reversal by atipamezole in llamas
Authors: Waldridge Bryan M. , Lin Hui-Chu , DeGraves Fred J. , Pugh David G.
Published: December 2023

Objective

To determine a dose of medetomidine that will induce sedation in llamas, to assess effects of medetomidine sedation on arterial blood gas variables, and to determine efficacy of atipamezole in reversing medetomidine-induced sedation.

Design

Prospective, randomized clinical trial.

Animals

15 clinically normal adult llamas.

Procedure

9 llamas received various doses of medetomidine (0.01, 0.02, or 0.03 mg/kg [0.005, 0.009, or 0.014 mg/lb] of body weight, IM). Heart and respiratory rates and sedative effects were recorded. Using the lowest dose that induced deep sedation, 6 different llamas were used to assess effects of medetomidine on arterial blood gas variables. These same 6 llamas were later given atipamezole (0.125 mg/kg [0.057 mg/lb], IV) 30 minutes after medetomidine injection. Heart and respiratory rates, sedative effects, and time from atipamezole injection to standing were recorded.

Results

Sedation began 6.67 ± 1.15 minutes (mean ± SD) after medetomidine administration (0.03 mg/kg, IM). Arterial blood gas variables measured 30 and 60 minutes after injection were not different from baseline. Llamas that did not receive atipamezole remained recumbent for 91.50 ± 24.68 minutes. After atipamezole administration, llamas were able to stand in 5.80 ± 3.27 minutes.

Clinical Implications

Medetomidine induced light to deep sedation in a dose-dependent manner in clinically normal llamas. A dose of 0.03 mg/kg induced deep sedation with a short period of analgesia. Atipamezole rapidly reversed effects of medetomidine, and llamas recovered quickly and were soon able to stand. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1997;211:1562–1565)
Clinical and radiographic findings, treatment, and outcome in cattle with osteochondrosis: 29 cases (1986–1996)
Authors: Trostle Steven S. , Nicoll Robert G. , Forrest Lisa J. , Markel Mark D.
Published: December 2023

Objective

To summarize the radiographic and clinical findings, treatment, and outcome in cattle with osteochondrosis diagnosed radiographically.

Design

Retrospective case series.

Sample Population

29 cattle with radiographic evidence of osteochondrosis.

Procedures

Medical records were reviewed, and owners or referring veterinarians were contacted for outcome assessment. Data were analyzed for potential interactions between osteochondrosis classification (osteochondritis dessicans vs subchondral cyst-like lesions), clinical and radiographic findings, treatment, and outcome, using Fisher’s exact test and descriptive statistics.

Results

Osteochondrosis was associated with young, male, purebred cattle, clinical evidence of lameness, and radiographic evidence of concurrent degenerative joint disease. Osteochondritis dissecans and subchondral cyst-like lesions had similar clinical findings and outcomes but varied significantly in their radiographic distribution among joints. Osteochondrosis often manifests clinically as a unilateral condition, but bilateral lesions were often found (88%) when limbs were radiographically examined. Cattle managed conservatively tended to be culled (within 6 months of diagnosis because of lameness) more often than those managed surgically, despite the lack of treatment bias.

Clinical Implications

Osteochondrosis in cattle is often associated with lameness or degenerative joint disease. Conservative management does not result in a favorable clinical prognosis for long-term, lameness-free survival, and more studies need to be completed to evaluate the efficacy of surgical treatment of osteochondrosis in cattle. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1997;211:1566–1570)
Effectiveness of tolazoline in reversing xylazine-induced sedation in calves
Authors: Powell Jim D. , Denhart Joseph W. , Lloyd W. Eugene
Published: December 2023

Objective

To test effectiveness of IV administration of tolazoline hydrochloride in reversing xylazine hydrochloride-induced sedation in calves.

Design

Prospective study.

Animals

12 female and 12 male Friesian-cross calves from 5 to 7 months old.

Procedure

Calves were assigned to 1 of 4 treatment groups. Calves were given xylazine (0.3 mg/kg [0.14 mg/lb] of body weight, IM). Twenty minutes later, calves were treated with saline (0.9% NaCI) solution (1 ml/50 kg (1 ml/110 lb], IV) or tolazoline (1, 2, or 4 mg/kg [0.45, 0.9, or 1.8 mg/lb], IV). Behavioral and physiologic measurements included elapsed time from xylazine administration to recumbency, arousal and standing times after reversal drug administration, heart rate, and respiratory rate.

Results

Mean (± SD) recumbency time for all calves was 5.4 ± 1.8 minutes. Compared with administration of saline solution, all 3 doses of tolazoline significantly decreased arousal and standing times. Mean arousal time for calves receiving saline solution was 27.8 ±11.5 minutes. Administration of tolazoline at 1, 2, and 4 mg/kg resulted in mean arousal times of 4.7 ± 3.8, 0.9 ± 0.5, and 0.7 ± 0.3 minutes, respectively. Mean standing time for calves receiving saline solution was 38.8 ± 2.8 minutes. Administration of tolazoline at 1, 2, and 4 mg/kg resulted in mean standing times of 14.0 ± 11.0, 3.0 ± 1.2, and 2.4 ± 1.1 minutes, respectively.

Clinical Implications

For routine use, tolazoline doses of 1 to 2 mg/kg should suffice. In cattle, IV administration of tolazoline reverses pharmacologic effects of xylazine, thereby hastening recovery from xylazine-induced sedation. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1998;212:90–92)
Monitoring adequacy of ventilation by capnometry during thoracotomy in dogs
Authors: Wagner Ann E. , Gaynor James S. , Dunlop Colin I. , Allen Sandra L. , Demme Wendy C.
Published: December 2023

Objective

To determine whether end-tidal partial pressure of carbon dioxide (Petco2) was a reliable estimate of Paco2 in dogs undergoing thoracotomy.

Design

Case series.

Animals

18 dogs that underwent thoracotomy.

Procedure

Paco2 and Petco2 were measured shortly after induction of anesthesia, while dogs were breathing spontaneously; 5 minutes prior to initial skin incision, while dogs were receiving intermittent positive-pressure ventilation (IPPV); 5, 30, and 60 minutes after the thoracic cavity was opened, while dogs were receiving IPPV; and after the thoracic cavity was closed and evacuated, when dogs were again breathing spontaneously. For each period, arterial-end-tidal difference in partial pressure of carbon dioxide (Paco2-Petco2) was compared with Paco2-Petco2 for the preceding period.

Results

Significant changes in Paco2-Petco2 from one period to the next were not detected except when values obtained 5 minutes after the thoracic cavity was opened were compared with values obtained 5 minutes before incision. The Paco2-Petco2 was not constant for individual dogs.

Clinical Implications

Petco2 was not a reliable indicator of adequacy of ventilation during thoracotomy in these dogs, because it differed greatly from Paco2, and Pac02-PETC02 was not consistent. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1998; 212:377-379)
Cardiovascular evaluation of lowland gorillas
Authors: Junge Randall E. , Mezei Leslie E. , Muhlbauer Michael C. , Weber Martha
Published: December 2023

Objective

To design a diagnostic protocol that uses appropriate techniques, including ultrasonography, to assess cardiovascular health and detect primary cardiac diseases in gorillas and to establish a database of reference values for cardiac measurements in clinically normal gorillas.

Design

Prospective study.

Animals

5 adult male lowland gorillas from 11 to 18 years old.

Procedure

A complete cardiac evaluation was performed on anesthetized gorillas, including physical examination, thoracic radiography, electrocardiography, echocardiography, blood pressure determination, CBC, serum biochemical analyses, and serologic assay for viral diseases. Standard cardiac measurements were made from images collected during ultrasonography.

Results

Cardiac measurements derived from ultrasonographic images were consistent with those considered normal in human beings. Results of other diagnostic tests were also considered normal.

Clinical Implications

Cardiac disease is the primary cause of mortality in old captive gorillas. The technique used here provided excellent evaluation of cardiac function. Use of these techniques will allow early detection of cardiac disease, making treatment or medical management possible. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1998; 212:413-415)
Relationship between race start characteristics and risk of catastrophic injury in Thoroughbreds: 78 cases (1992)
Authors: Leah Estberg , Stover Susan M. , Gardner Ian A. , Johnson Bill J. , Jack Robert A. , Case James T. , Ardans Alex , Read Deryck H. , Anderson Mark L. , Barr Bradd C. , Daft Barbara M. , Kinde Hailu , Moore Janet , Stoltz James , Woods Leslie
Published: December 2023

Objective

To investigate relationships of several racehorse characteristics and race conditions with risk of a catastrophic musculoskeletal injury (CMI) resulting in euthanasia in Thoroughbreds during racing in California in 1992.

Design

Retrospective longitudinal study.

Animals

Thoroughbreds that incurred CMI during racing and all California race entrants in 1992.

Procedure

Necropsy records were reviewed, and race start information was obtained. Incidence risk of CMI/1,000 race entrants was estimated. Relationships between CMI during racing and race-meet, entrant age and sex, race type and length, and racing surface type and condition were evaluated by use of logistic regression.

Results

Incidence risk of CMI was 1.7/1,000 entrants. A higher risk of CMI was found at 2 fair race-meets, with incidence risks of 4.9 and 5.5/1,000 entrants. Risk of injury in male horses was 1.7 times greater than that in female horses, and influence of age on risk depended on race type. Risk of injury for horses 2 to 5 years old was two times greater for claiming horses than for maiden horses. Race length or racing surface type (dirt vs turf) or condition (fast, muddy, yielding) were not significantly associated with risk of CMI.

Clinical Implications

Incidence of CMI was similar among 12 of 14 major and fair race-meets and among various race lengths and racing surface types and conditions, whereas incidence of CMI was influenced by entrant age and sex as well as race type. Investigators should consider controlling for age and sex, race-meet, and race type whenever possible in studies of risk of CMI. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1998; 212:544-549)
Combined parenteral and oral administration of oxytetracycline for control of infectious bovine keratoconjunctivitis
Authors: Eastman Timothy G. , George Lisle W. , Hird David W. , Thurmond Mark C.
Published: December 2023

Objective

To determine whether combined parenteral and oral administration of oxytetracycline would ameliorate a herd outbreak of infectious bovine keratoconjunctivitis (IBK) and to compare efficacy of this regimen with that of subconjunctival administration of procaine penicillin G.

Design

Randomized field trial.

Animals

119 Hereford calves in a herd undergoing a naturally occurring outbreak of IBK.

Procedure

Calves were randomly assigned to 1 of the following 3 groups: oxytetracycline treatment, procaine penicillin G treatment, and control. After initial treatment, calves were examined 3 times/wk for 7 weeks. The surface area of all corneal ulcers was measured during each examination. Ocular secretions were collected from all calves at least weekly and were tested for Moraxella bovis.

Results

Calves treated with oxytetracycline had a lower prevalence of IBK than did calves treated with procaine penicillin G or control calves and required fewer additional treatments than did calves treated with procaine penicillin G. Mean time for healing of corneal ulcers was significantly less for calves that received oxytetracycline or procaine penicillin G than for control calves. Calves treated with oxytetracycline developed fewer corneal ulcers and fewer recurrent ulcers than did calves in the other groups. Moraxella bovis was isolated less often from ocular secretions collected from calves in the oxytetracycline group than from calves in the other groups.

Clinical Implications

Combined parenteral and oral administration of oxytetracycline appears to be an effective method of reducing severity of a herd outbreak of IBK and may be superior to treatment of affected animals with procaine penicillin G. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1998; 212:560-563)
Effects of extensive crossfostering on performance of pigs on a farm
Authors: Straw Barbara E. , Bürgi Esther J. , Dewey Catherine E. , Duran C. Oliver
Published: December 2023

Objective

To compare mortality and growth rates of pigs subjected to continuous or limited crossfostering.

Design

Prospective study.

Animals

80 litters containing 879 pigs.

Procedure

In half of the litters, crossfostering was limited to the first 2 days of life. In the other litters, pigs were crossfostered throughout the lactation period to maintain uniform body weights within litters.

Results

Restricting crossfostering to the first 2 days of life resulted in a 20% increase in body weight at weaning, compared with crossfostering throughout the nursing period. Mortality rates did not differ between the limited and continuous crossfostering groups.

Clinical Implications

The emphasis placed on reducing variation of body weights within litters is unwarranted and veterinarians should advise limiting crossfostering to the first 2 days of life. Excessive crossfostering late in the nursing period may be identified by low within-litter SD of mean body weight. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1998; 212:855-856)
Surgical repair of patellar luxation in llamas: 7 cases (1980-1996)
Authors: Van Hoogmoed Linda , Snyder Jack R. , Vasseur Philip
Published: December 2023

Objective

To evaluate anatomy of the stifle in llamas and determine outcome of llamas that underwent surgery for repair of patellar luxation.

Design

Anatomic and retrospective study.

Animals

6 llamas with unilateral patellar luxation and 1 llama with bilateral luxations.

Procedure

6 stifles from llama cadavers were dissected to determine anatomy. Medical records were reviewed to identify history, procedure, outcome, and complications of llamas that underwent surgery.

Results

6 llamas had lateral patellar luxation (including the llama with bilateral luxations), and 1 had medial patellar luxation. Six llamas had a history of trauma before onset of clinical signs. Two llamas underwent tibial tuberosity transposition, but luxation recurred in both and 1 had problems with breakage of implants. The other 5 llamas underwent imbrication and release procedures; however, luxation recurred in 4 of the 5. Surgery was repeated in 2 llamas, with successful outcomes.

Clinical Implications

Results suggest that imbrication and release procedures may be useful for correction of patellar luxation in llamas without other bony abnormalities. However, long (20 cm) imbrication and release incisions are needed for a successful outcome. Use of a sling after surgery, to allow a gradual return to weight bearing and exercise, may also be important. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1998; 212:860-865)
Large-scale human exposures to rabid or presumed rabid animals in the United States: 22 cases (1990–1996)
Authors: Rotz Lisa D. , Hensley Jennifer A. , Rupprecht Charles E. , Childs James E.
Published: December 2023

Objective

To identify common elements of large-scale human exposures to rabid or presumed rabid animals in the United States from 1990 to 1996.

Design

Retrospective study.

Procedure

Health departments in 50 states and the District of Columbia were contacted regarding episodes of large-scale human exposures to rabid animals occurring between 1990 and 1996. A large-scale exposure was defined as administration of postexposure prophylaxis (PEP) to 25 or more people after an exposure to a rabid or presumed rabid animal or littermates. Incident-specific information was obtained through questionnaires sent to states reporting episodes. Data are reported as medians.

Results

Fifteen of 51 (29.4%) health departments reported 22 episodes; 72.7% involved companion animals or livestock. Twenty-six animals were involved in these 22 episodes, including 10 (38.5%) dogs, 4 (15.4%) livestock, 4 (15.4%) raccoons, 3 (11.5%) cats, 3 (11.5%) bats, and 2 (7.7%) ferrets. Schools (36.4%) and public places (22.7%) were the most common settings for exposures. Reportedly, 1,908 people received PEP. The cost for 10 episodes was $61,547/episode (range, $14,199 to $1,500,000). An episode-specific written algorithm for recommending PEP had been developed for use in only 4 (18.2%) episodes.

Clinical Implications

Large-scale exposures most commonly involved a single companion animal. Exposures attributable to improper handling of wildlife and unrestricted access of animals in schools and public areas can be potentially remedied by targeted education. Use of an episode-specific algorithm to determine need for PEP may also reduce the number of unnecessary treatments. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1998;212:1198–1200)
Heinz body formation in cats fed baby food containing onion powder
Authors: Robertson Jane E. , Christopher Mary M. , Rogers Quinton R.
Published: December 2023

Objective

To determine whether cats fed baby food with onion powder develop Heinz bodies and anemia and to establish a dose-response relation between dietary onion powder content and Heinz body formation.

Design

Prospective study.

Animals

42 healthy, adult, specific-pathogen-free cats.

Procedure

Commercial baby food with and without onion powder was fed to 2 groups of 6 cats for 5 weeks. Heinz body percentage, PCV, reticulocyte percentage, turbidity index, and methemoglobin and reduced glutathione concentrations were determined twice weekly and then weekly for 4 weeks following removal of the diet. For the dose-response study, 5 groups of 6 cats were fed a canned diet for 2 months that contained 0, 0.3, 0.75, 1.5, or 2.5% onion powder. Heinz body percentage, PCV, and reticulocyte percentage were determined twice weekly.

Results

Compared with cats fed baby food without onion powder, cats ingesting baby food with onion powder had significantly higher Heinz body percentages that peaked at 33 to 53%. Methemoglobin concentration also significantly increased but did not exceed 1.2%. Glutathione concentration, PCV, and food intake did not differ between the 2 groups. Rate and degree of Heinz body formation differed significantly between various onion powder concentrations fed. Compared with 0% onion powder, the diet with 2.5% onion powder caused a significant decrease in PCV and an increased punctate reticulocyte percentage.

Clinical Implications

Baby food or other foods containing similar amounts of onion powder should be avoided for use in cats because of Heinz body formation and the potential for development of anemia, particularly with high food intake. Cats with diseases associated with oxidative stress may develop additive hemoglobin damage when fed baby food containing onion powder. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1998;212: 1260–1266)
Implantation of a reinforced polytetrafluoroethylene vascular graft for treatment of obstructions of the teat and mammary gland cisternae in cattle
Authors: Hirsbrunner Gaby , Metzger L. , Steiner A.
Published: December 2023

Objective

To evaluate use of an artificial vascular graft as treatment for obstructions of the teat and mammary gland cisternae in lactating cattle.

Design

Prospective clinical study.

Animals

14 lactating dairy cows.

Procedure

After physical examination that included palpation, ultrasonography, evaluation of milk flow, and California mastitis test, each cow underwent surgical excision of obstructive tissue and implantation of a reinforced polytetrafluoroethylene vascular graft. Milk drained passively for 10 to 14 days after surgery. Follow-up evaluation was performed by telephone questionnaire of owners 1, 6, and 12 months after surgery regarding somatic cell count, time needed to milk affected quarter, compared with that of the contralateral quarter, and frequency of mastitis. After the subsequent nonlactation period and calving, milk flow was tested, using a quarter milking machine, and ultrasonographic examination of the affected teat was performed.

Results

Milk could be obtained from affected quarters from all cows 14 days after surgery, from 13 (93%) cows 1 month after surgery, from 10 (71 %) cows 6 months after surgery, and from 3 (21 %) cows 12 months after surgery, but milk flow in these 3 cows was considerably reduced. This technique failed because of collapse of the implant (4 cows), chronic mastitis (1), migration of the implant (4), and ingrowth of obstructive tissue between the distal aspect of the implant and the ridges of mucous membrane that radiate from the internal orifice of the streak canal (4), or a combination of these.

Clinical Implications

Implantation of this vascular graft is a useful technique to restore teat patency for 6 months. A longer period of passive drainage of milk appears necessary for sufficient ingrowth of the graft. Lesions that extend to the distal most aspect of the teat cistern have a poor prognosis, because this area cannot be sufficiently overlapped by the graft. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1998;212: 1432–1435)
Concurrent abomasal displacement and perforating ulceration in cattle: 21 cases (1985–1996)
Authors: Cable Christina S. , Rebhun William C. , Fubini Susan L. , Erb Hollis N. , Ducharme Norm G.
Published: December 2023

Objective

To evaluate the association of physical examination and clinicopathologic findings with surgical findings in cattle with concurrent abomasal displacement and perforating ulceration, to determine short- and long-term survival rates in these cattle, and to determine whether degree of peritonitis (focal vs diffuse) influences survival rates.

Design

Retrospective study.

Animals

21 cattle with concurrent abomasal displacement and perforating ulceration and 42 cattle with uncomplicated abomasal displacement.

Procedure

Information on signalment, stage of lactation, physical examination findings, clinicopathologic data, surgical diagnosis, procedure(s) performed, and necropsy findings were retrieved from medical records of all cattle included in this study. Differences between physical examination findings of cattle with concurrent disease and those of cattle with uncomplicated displacements were evaluated, as were differences between survival rates in cattle with focal versus diffuse peritonitis.

Results

Cattle with concurrent disease had a greater probability of having pneumoperitoneum and signs of abdominal pain identified on physical examination than did cattle with uncomplicated diseases. There was no relationship between clinicopathologic data and survival time. Short-term survival rate was 38%, and degree of peritonitis significantly influenced survival time in cattle with concurrent abomasal displacement and perforating ulceration. Long-term survival rate in these cattle was 14%.

Clinical Implications

Cattle with concurrent displaced abomasum and perforating ulceration have a poor chance for survival. In addition to detection of displaced abomasum, physical examination findings that can help lead to a presurgical diagnosis of this syndrome are pneumoperitoneum and signs of abdominal pain. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1998;212: 1442–1445)
Effect of storage conditions on cortisol, total thyroxine, and free thyroxine concentrations in serum and plasma of dogs
Authors: Behrend Ellen Nicole , Kemppainen Robert James , Young Diane White
Published: December 2023

Objective

To determine for dogs stability of cortisol, thyroxine (T4). and free thyroxine (fT4) in plasma and serum stored in glass or plastic tubes at −20, 4, 25, and 37 C.

Design

Prospective study.

Animals

Phase I, 7 Greyhounds; Phase II, 6 mixed breed dogs.

Procedure

Phase I: blood was obtained after administration of thyroid-stimulating hormone and adrenocorticotropin. Serum and plasma samples from each dog were divided into 8 aliquots, 4 in glass and 4 in plastic tubes. A pair of aliquots, 1 in plastic and 1 in glass, were stored at −20, 4, 25, or 37 C for 5 days and then assayed for hormones. Phase II: blood was obtained without prior stimulation. For fT4 determination, serum from each dog was placed in plastic or glass tubes, assayed immediately, stored at −20 C for 5 days, and reassayed. Aliquots from each dog were also stored for 1 day at 4 or 25 C and then assayed. Samples for cortisol determination were handled as in phase I.

Results

Phase I: there was no effect of tube type (glass vs plastic) on cortisol. Cortisol concentrations decreased after storage in serum at 4, 25, and 37 C, and in plasma at 37 C, compared with storage at −20 C. There was no effect of sample type (serum or plasma) on T4. Thyroxine concentrations increased after storage at 37 C in glass, compared with storage at −20 C. The fT4 concentrations were lower in serum than plasma after storage at −20 C. Concentrations of fT4 increased after storage at 37 C in glass, compared with storage at −20 C. Phase II: the fT4 concentrations did not change after storage in any condition. There was no effect of tube type on cortisol concentrations. Serum cortisol concentrations decreased after storage at 37 C, compared with storage at −20 C.

Clinical Implications

For cortisol, cooling of plasma is not necessary, but serum should be shipped cold. For T4 and fT4, serum is sufficient; contained within plastic tubes, samples can be shipped without cooling if assayed within 5 days. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1998;212:1564–1568)
Comparison of serum cortisol concentrations in clinically normal dogs after administration of freshly reconstituted versus reconstituted and stored frozen cosyntropin
Authors: Frank Linda A. , Oliver Jack W.
Published: December 2023

Objective

To evaluate the biological stability of reconstituted cosyntropin after storage at −20 C for 2, 4, and 6 months.

Design

Prospective study.

Animals

10 clinically normal dogs.

Procedure

Serum cortisol concentrations in dogs were determined before and 1 hour after administration of freshly reconstituted cosyntropin (synthetic ACTH) or cosyntropin that had been reconstituted and stored frozen at −20 C in plastic syringes for 2, 4, and 6 months. Cosyntropin was administered at 5 μg/kg (2.3 μg/lb) of body weight, IV.

Results

Baseline serum cortisol concentrations were similar at each sampling time. Compared with the effects of freshly reconstituted cosyntropin, administration of cosyntropin that had been frozen did not have a significantly different effect on serum cortisol concentrations.

Clinical lmplications

Cosyntropin can be reconstituted and stored frozen at −20 C in plastic syringes for 6 months with no adverse effects on bioactivity of the polypeptide. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1998;212: 1569–1571)
Owner experiences with home use of a gastrostomy tube in their dog or cat
Authors: Seaman Rebecca , Legendre Alfred M.
Published: December 2023

Objective

To describe owner experiences with gastrostomy tubes used at home.

Design

Telephone survey.

Animals

20 cats and 5 dogs.

Procedure

Owner's opinions obtained by phone interview.

Results

Although 32% (8/25) of owners were initially reluctant to feed their cat or dog through the gastrostomy tube, 92% (22/24) of owners became comfortable with the procedure. Eighty-four percent (21/25) of owners were able to feed their dog or cat unassisted; 16% (4/25) required another person to help. Median time required for feeding was 19.8 minutes. Ninety-six percent (24/25) of owners believed their dog or cat was comfortable with the procedure. Eighty-four percent (21/25) of owners experienced complications or difficulties. Most problems involved bandage maintenance, administration of food through the syringe and tube, or acquisition of syringes and special foods. Ninety-six percent (22/23) of owners would be willing to use a gastrostomy tube again.

Clinical Implications

Most owners had positive experiences with the feeding experience and would be willing to use gastrostomy tube feeding again. Difficulties encountered by owners were not serious and could be avoided by specific client instruction. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1998;212:1576–1578)
Dietary control of exertional rhabdomyolysis in horses
Authors: Valentine Beth A. , Hintz Harold F. , Freels Kristin M. , Reynolds Arleigh J. , Thompson Kent N.
Published: December 2023

Objective

To determine whether feeding a low-carbohydrate, high-fat diet would decrease severity of exercise-induced muscle injury in horses with exertional rhabdomyolysis.

Animals

19 horses with a history of exertional rhabdomyolysis.

Design

Case series.

Procedure

Specimens of the semitendinosus or semimembranosus muscle were obtained for histologic examination, and serum creatine kinase (CK) and aspartate transaminase (AST) activities 4 hours after exercise were determined. Horses were then fed a low-carbohydrate, high-fat diet, and serum CK and AST activities 4 hours after exercise were reevaluated at approximately monthly intervals for 3 to 6 months.

Results

Serum CK and AST activities 4 hours after exercise were high before any change in diet. All 19 horses had evidence of chronic myopathic change and abnormal glycogen accumulation in muscle biopsy specimens; 11 horses also had evidence of complex polysaccharide accumulation. Adaptation to diet change required approximately 3 to 6 months. Sixteen horses did not have any episodes of exertional rhabdomyolysis after 3 to 6 months of diet change, and 3 horses had mild episodes of exertional rhabdomyolysis following either a reduction in dietary fat intake or restriction in exercise. Postexercise serum CK and AST activities 3 to 6 months after the change in diet were significantly less than initial values.

Clinical Implications

Results indicated that exertional rhabdomyolysis may be a result of abnormal carbohydrate metabolism in some horses. Feeding a diet with low carbohydrate and high fat content may reduce severity of exercise-induced injury in some horses with exertional rhabdomyolysis. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1998;212:1588–1593).