bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transitional lumbosacral vertebral anomaly in the dog: a radiographic study
Authors: Morgan J. P.
Published: April 2008

Transitional lumbosacral vertebral anomalies have for some time been suggested as a possible cause of cauda equina syndrome (especially in the German shepherd dog [GSD]), a condition recently thought to be inherited. The frequency of this condition within a large clinical population and the radiographic features used in its detection are reported. In a group of 143 patients, the sexes were similarly represented and the GSD was greatly overrepresented. The anomaly is characterised by separation of the first sacral segment that was identified on the lateral view by the presence of a radibiucent disc space between what are normally the first and second sacral segments. On the ventrodorsal view, the anomaly was characterised by separation of the spinous processes between what are normally the first and second sacral segments. In the presence of the transitional segment, the nature of the sacroiliac joint at the level of the anomalous segment varies from a strong ilial attachment, with the presence of a wing‐like lateral process, to a weakened ilial attachment because of the presence of a lateral process, shaped as that seen on a lumbar segment. These patterns were present unilaterally or bilaterally and result in symmetrical or asymmetrical patterns. The effect of the weakening of the sacroiliac attachment was thought to result in premature disc degeneration, which, together with spinal canal stenosis, resulted in potential compression of the overlying spinal nerves and creation of a cauda equina syndrome. The condition is thought to have clinical significance and should be selected against in breeding, especially in the GSD.
Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis in a Staffordshire bull terrier with hypothyroidism
Authors: Corcoran B. M. , Dukes‐McEwan J. , Rhind S. , French A.
Published: April 2008

Radiographic evidence of chronic interstitial lung changes, usually believed to be attributable to lung fibrosis, is readily recognised in canine practice. Furthermore, there is a body of anecdotal evidence suggesting that a specific clinical entity consistent with chronic lung fibrosis occurs in specific breeds of terrier dogs. However, there is little pathological data to confirm these radiographic and clinical findings and, therefore, chronic interstitial lung disease of dogs is poorly characterised. In this report, a case of chronic pulmonary fibrosis is described in which histopathological confirmation was possible, and suggested that the condition might be analogous to idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (cryptogenic fibrosing alveolitis) in humans.
Effect of triple therapy on eradication of canine gastric helicobacters and gastric disease
Authors: Happonen I. , Linden J. , Westermarck E.
Published: April 2008

Nine helicobacter‐positive pet dogs with upper gastrointestinal signs were studied to evaluate the effect of a triple therapy, normally applied to humans for the eradication of gastric helicobacters, on clinical signs and gastric histology, as well as the recurrence of helicobacters after eradication in an extended follow‐up in four dogs. Endoscopy was performed at entry to the study and repeated after eradication therapies and additional treatments. If the triple therapy (amoxycillin, metronidazole and bismuth subcitrate) failed, tetracycline and omeprazole were prescribed. Additional therapies were instituted if clinical signs persisted after eradication therapies. Helicobacter status was verified from gastric biopsy specimens by the urease test and histological examination, and in a few dogs also by brush cytology. Triple therapy eradicated gastric helicobacters in 7/9 dogs; gastric helicobacters were also eradicated in one dog treated with tetracycline and omeprazole. Eradication of helicobacters resulted in significant improvement, but not total resolution, of clinical signs. Subsequent additional therapies resulted in further alleviation of clinical signs. Neither triple therapy nor additional therapies had a significant effect on gastric histological changes. Gastric helicobacters recurred in 4/4 dogs within three years of the eradication treatment. Because canine gastric helicobacters alone were not definitively shown to induce clinical signs, routine eradication therapy seems not to be warranted at present.
Deionised water as an adjunct to surgery for the treatment of canine cutaneous mast cell tumours
Authors: Jaffe M. H. , Hosgood G. , Kerwin S. C. , Hedlund C. S. , Taylor H. W.
Published: April 2008

Medical records of 55 dogs with a diagnosis of cutaneous mast cell tumour were reviewed. Twenty‐seven of the dogs were treated with surgery plus deionised water and the remaining 28 with surgery alone. A survival analysis was performed to determine whether deionised water, as an adjunct to surgery for cutaneous mast cell tumour, affected survival time or time to tumour recurrence. Dogs in which mast cell tumour recurred had a significantly shorter survival time compared with dogs with no recurrence (P=0.05), regardless of the method of treatment. A significant negative association between tumour recurrence and method of treatment (P=0.0097) and clinical stage (P=0.0223) was observed. Dogs treated with surgery and deionised water had a significantly shorter time to recurrence of their mast cell tumour (P=0.0113). Based on these results, deionised water does not appear to be beneficial in prolonging survival time or time to tumour recurrence for dogs with cutaneous mast cell tumours.
Dermoid sinus at the lumbosacral junction in an English springer spaniel
Authors: Pratt J. N. J. , Knottenbelt C.M. , Welsh E. M.
Published: April 2008

A dermoid sinus was identified in a springer spaniel that presented with hindlimb neurological deficits. The sinus was continuous with the dura mater at the level of the lumbosacral junction. The presence of hair and debris adjacent to neural tissue had elicited a myelitis. A dorsal laminectomy was required to allow complete surgical resection of the sinus. The dog's neurological status improved after treatment and this improvement was maintained over a five‐month follow‐up period.
Postoperative analgesia in the cat after ovariohysterectomy by use of carprofen, ketoprofen, meloxicam or tolfenamic acid
Authors: Slingsby L. S. , Waterman‐Pearson A. E.
Published: April 2008

The adequacy of postoperative analgesia was assessed in 40 cats following ovariohysterectomy. At extubation, cats were given one dose of carprofen, ketoprofen, meloxicam or tolfenamic acid. Postoperative analgesia was assessed using visual analogue scale (VAS) scoring for pain and sedation; measurement of mechanical nociceptive thresholds at the wound; recognition of the requirement for rescue intervention analgesia; and an overall clinical assessment score at 18 hours. VAS pain scores were low throughout the trial, with no significant differences found between the groups. Postoperative mechanical nociceptive thresholds decreased significantly from baseline in all four groups, with no significant differences between the groups. One cat in each of the tolfenamic acid, ketoprofen and meloxicam groups required rescue intervention analgesia. Nine out of 10 cats in all four groups were classified as having desirable overall clinical assessment scores. In summary, all four drugs provided good postoperative analgesia, although none was able to prevent postoperative wound tenderness.
Effect of NSAID administration on creatinine clearance in healthy dogs undergoing anaesthesia and surgery
Authors: Forsyth S. F. , Guilford W. G. , Preiffer D. U.
Published: April 2008

Thirty healthy male dogs were randomly assigned to receive carprofen (4 mg/kg intravenously), ketoprofen (2 mg/kg intravenously) or saline (0.2 ml/kg intravenously) at induction of anaesthesia for castration surgery. A routine castration was undertaken and a buccal mucosal bleeding time was assessed at the completion of surgery. Twenty‐four hours after surgery a 24–hour endogenous creatinine clearance study was undertaken. Buccal mucosal bleeding time was not significantly different between the three groups. Creatinine clearance was significantly lower (P ≤ 0.01) in the two groups of dogs that received a non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drug compared with that in the dogs that received sterile saline. There was no significant difference between the carprofen and ketoprofen groups with respect to creatinine clearance.
Cortisol response to two different doses of intravenous synthetic ACTH (tetracosactrin) in overweight cats
Authors: Schoeman J. P. , Evans H. J. , Childs D. , Herrtage M. E.
Published: April 2008

Fifteen middle‐aged to older, overweight cats attending a first‐opinion clinic were investigated to rule out hyperadrenocorticism as a cause of their weight problem, using two different protocols for the adrenocortlcotropic hormone (ACTH) stimulation test. The cats received intravenous synthetic ACTH (tetracosactrin) at an initial dose of 125 μg; a second test was performed between two and three weeks later, using a dose of 250 vg intravenously. The mean basal serum cortisol concentration was 203 nmol/litre (range 81 to 354 nmol/litre). The highest mean serum cortisol concentration occurred at 60 minutes following the 125 μg dose and at 120 minutes following the 250 μg dose. There was, however, no statistically significant difference between these peak cortisol concentrations attained using either dose of tetracosactrin. A significantly higher mean serum cortisol concentration was attained after the higher dose at the 180 minutes time point, indicating a more prolonged response when compared with the lower dose. The cats were followed up for one year after the initial investigations and none were found to develop hyperadrenocorticism during this time.
Pathological femoral fracture due to rhabdomyosarcoma in a cat
Authors: Simon D. , Gruber A. D. , Hewicker‐Trautwein M. , Nolte I.
Published: April 2008

An eight‐year‐old neutered male domestic shorthaired cat was presented with non‐weightbearing lameness of the right hindlimb. OR radiography, a pathological, metaphyseal femoral fracture was apparent, with areas of bony lysis directly surrounding the fracture site. The cat underwent amputation of the Ilmb. Histopathological examination revealed the presence of a tumour of mesenchymal cells with cytoplasm‐containing vacuoles which stained positive with the periodic acid‐schiff reaction, indicative of glycogen granules that may be found in rhabdomyosarcoma cells. In addition, the tumour cells stained positive for vimentin and desmin on immunohistochemical examination, thus confirming the diagnosis of rhabdomyosarcoma. In spite of the radical surgery performed, the cat was euthanased due to a recurrence at the amputation site four and a half months later.
Horner's syndrome associated with Neospora infection
Authors: Ane P. Boydell , Brongan N.
Published: April 2008

A working collie cross was presented with a three‐month history of vague neurological signs and a right‐sided Homer's syndrome. Denervation hypersensitivity testing suggested a first order syndrome. There was a significant positive titre to Neospora and clinical signs resolved completely following treatment.
Ischaemic heart disease in the dog: a review of 65 cases
Authors: Falk T. , Jönson L.
Published: April 2008

Sixty‐five dogs are reviewed with histopathologically confirmed intramural arteriosclerosis. Clinical data (clinical signs, electrocardiographic findings and ultrasound parameters) on these animals were collected from nine small animal clinics in Sweden: 16 dogs had died suddenly, with few or no previous clinical signs; 13 dogs died or were euthanased during or shortly after general anaesthesia or sedation; 30 dogs developed acute (14) or chronic (16) congestive heart failure; and six dogs died or were euthanased for causes unrelated to cardiac disease. Electrocardiography of 23 of the dogs revealed several types of arrhythmias, with atrial fibrillation and sinus tachycardia being most commonly detected. Ultrasonographic examinations of 24 dogs found a relatively high number (19) with decreased indices of contractility. Dogs that had died suddenly and in relation to general anaesthesia or sedation had a higher incidence (25 of 29) of purely arteriosclerotic changes in the myocardial vessels, whereas just over half the dogs with congestive heart failure (16 of 30) had other concomitant heart lesions (in most cases endocardiosis). The incidence of myocardial infarcts was high (51 of 65 cases). It is postulated that arteriosclerosis in the dog may be an important reason for sudden death and death during general anaesthesia. Coronary arterial disease should also be a consideration in the clinical evaluation of dilated cardiomyopathy and may contribute to the decreased myocardial contractility when it is present in dogs with mitral regurgitation.
Diagnosis, treatment and outcome of orbital neoplasia in dogs: a retrospective study of 44 cases
Authors: Hendrix D. V. H. , Gelatt K. N.
Published: April 2008

Forty‐four dogs with confirmed orbital neoplasia were studied. Eighteen tumour types were represented and 95 per cent of the neoplasms were classified as malignant. The tumour types most commonly diagnosed were osteosarcoma, fibrosarcoma and nasal adenocarcinoma. Thirty‐six per cent of the dogs had at least one clinical sign that was compatible with a diagnosis of orbital abscessation or cellulitis. Fifty‐six per cent of the dogs, where follow‐up information was available, were euthanased or had died within six months of diagnosis, while 19 per cent of the total were still alive after one year post‐diagnosis. Cytological examination was diagnostic for orbital neoplasia in 49 per cent of the fine needle aspirates of the retrobulbar space. In contrast, 56 per cent of the non‐surgical biopsies were diagnostic for orbital neoplasia. Of those dogs that had died or been euthanased within six months of diagnosis, only 22 per cent had undergone some form of therapy for orbital neoplasia. In comparison, 86 per cent of dogs surviving longer than six months post‐diagnosis had undergone such therapy.
Cervical neoplasia originating from the vagus nerve in a dog
Authors: Ruppert C. , Hartmann K. , Fischer A. , Hirschberger J. , Hafner A. , Schmidt P.
Published: April 2008

An eight‐year‐old intact male Bernese mountain dog was referred with a history of chronic vomiting, coughing and signs of respiratory distress. Other historical findings included lethargy, weight loss and choking. On presentation, clinical findings were Horner's syndrome, ipsilateral laryngeal hemiplegia, coughing, gagging, respiratory distress and vomiting. Lateral cervical radiographs showed ill‐defined mineralisation in the soft tissue ventral to the third cervical vertebra, while ultrasonography of the neck revealed a well marginated heterogeneous mass with focal hyperechogenic lesions and acoustic shadowing. Results of an ultrasound‐guided fine needle aspirate suggested neoplasia. At necropsy, a large tumour was detected in the ventral cervical region, originating from the right vagosympathetic trunk. In view of the infiltrating pattern, the cellular pleomorphism and the numerous mitoses on histopathological examination, the tumour was classified as a malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumour.
Ultrasonographic examination of the adrenal gland and evaluation of the hypophyseal‐adrenal axis in 20 cats
Authors: Zimmer C. , Hörauf A. , Reusch C.
Published: April 2008

The adrenal glands of 20 healthy, non‐sedated cats were examined ultrasonographically; visualisation and assessment was possible in all cases. In comparison with the surrounding tissue, the adrenal glands were hypoecholc and two distinct zones could be differentiated In six of the cats. The length and width of the adrenal glands varied from 0.45 to 1.37 cm and 0.29 to 0.53 cm, respectively, and both dimensions could be reliably reproduced. The adrenal glands did not differ between male and female cats, and, in comparison to dogs, those of cats are more easily vlsualised ultrasonographically. The basal cortisol value ranged from 2.0 to 79 μg/litre. Values 30 and 60 minutes after administration of ACTH (0.125 mg/cat intramuscularly) varied from 36 to 126 μg/litre. The basal value of aldosterone ranged from 4 to 618 pg/ml. Values 30 and 60 minutes after administration of ACTH varied from 100 to 832 pg/ml. In all cats, suppression of the cortisol value below the level of detection (<2.0 pg/litre) occurred four and eight hours after the administration of dexamethasone (0.1 mg/kg intravenously).
Sprain of the short radial collateral ligament in a racing greyhound
Authors: Guilliard M. J. , Mayo A. K.
Published: April 2008

Severe carpal lameness in a racing greyhound due to a sprain of the straight part of the short radial collateral ligament is described. The dog subsequently developed an enthesiopathy at the origin of the ligament. Treatment was by kennel rest and the dog returned to successful racing.
Echocardiographic diagnosis of dirofilariasis in a ferret
Authors: Sasai H. , Kato K. , Sasaki T. , Koyama S. , Kotani T. , Fukata T.
Published: April 2008

Heartworm disease is described in a 14‐month‐old neutered female ferret (Mustela putorius furo) which had a three week history of sneezing, anorexia and dyspnoea. Echocardiography revealed the presence of heartworms as hyperechoic densities within the right atrial and ventricular cavities. At necropsy, four Dirofilaria immltls parasites (three females, one male) were found in the right heart, the cranial vena cava and the caudal vena cava. Histopathological findings were similar to those reported in canine heartworm disease. Echocardiography may be a useful method of diagnosis of heartworm disease in the ferret.
Aplasia of the gallbladder in a dog
Authors: Liptak J. M. , Swinney G. R. , Rothwell T. L. W. , Hunt G. B.
Published: April 2008

A young, female Maltese dog was presented with intermittent vomiting of bile. Biochemical evidence of persistent mild hepatopathy had been present for 11 months. Exploratory celiotomy was performed. Absence of the gallbladder with malformation of the quadrate lobe of the liver was identified. There was histological evidence of bile duct proliferation and portal fibrosis.
Clinical, radiological and pathological features of 12 Irish setters with canine leucocyte adhesion deficiency
Authors: Trowald‐Wigh G. , Ekman S. , Hansson K. , Hedhammar Å. , Segerstad C. Hård AF
Published: April 2008

The clinical, radiological and pathological findings in 12 dogs with canine leucocyte adhesion deficiency (CLAD) from six litters are described. All the dogs were younger than 15 weeks at admission, all had been febrile and 11 had been treated with antibiotics. Seven had been treated for omphalophlebitis. At admission, all had gingivitis, lymph node enlargement and profound neutrophilia. Ten dogs were radiographed and showed various skeletal lesions compatible with metaphyseal osteopathy, craniomandibular osteopathy and osteomyelitis. Four dogs had clinical signs of respiratory distress and seven exhibited a mild interstitial pneumonia at necropsy. Six dogs had skin wounds, with strikingly few neutrophils seen on stained sections. All dogs were euthanased before six months of age due to severe and incurable infections. The clinical signs, radiological features and haematology were strongly suggestive of CLAD. The diagnosis was confirmed by granulocyte function tests and flow cytometry, which revealed impaired adhesion, impaired C3b‐mediated phagocytosis and absence of adhesion proteins CD11b/CD18.
Epitheliotropic lymphoma (mycosis fungoides) presenting as blepharoconjunctivitis in an Irish setter
Authors: Donaldson D. , Day M. J.
Published: April 2008

An 11‐year‐old neutered female Irish setter was presented with a six‐week history of blepharoconjunctivitis affecting the right eye. A conjunctival biopsy was taken and histopathological examination revealed a heavy cellular infiltrate involving the epithelial and subepithelial tissues. lmmunohistochemical staining showed the intraepithelial cell population to uniformly have the phenotype CD3 (T‐cell specific marker). A diagnosis of epitheliotropic lymphoma (mycosis fungoides) was made. The use of a synthetic retinoid and topical prednisolone in the management of the case is discussed.
Outbreak of Salmonella typhimurium in cats and humans associated with infection in wild birds
Authors: Tauni M. A. , öSterlund A.
Published: April 2008

An outbreak of Salmonella typhimurium infection in cats and humans in Sweden in 1999, associated with wild birds, is described. In the county of Värmland, 62 sick cats were examined. All were anorectic and lethargic, 57 per cent had vomiting and 31 per cent had diarrhoea. It was considered likely that salmonellosis was transmitted from cats to humans, but there were only a few such cases.
Preliminary clinical observations on the use of piroxicam in the management of rectal tubulopapillary polyps
Authors: Knottenbelt C. M. , Simpson J. W. , Tasker S. , Ridyard A. E. , Chandler M. L. , Jamieson P. M. , Welsh E. M.
Published: April 2008

Rectal tubulopapillary polyps were diagnosed in eight dogs following proctoscopy and mucosal pinch biopsy. Histological examination of the pinch biopsies revealed evidence of malignant transformation in three of the cases. The remaining cases were diagnosed as benign polyps. Inflammatory changes were observed in four cases. Seven dogs were treated with piroxicam suppositories and one with oral piroxicarn. All dogs were re‐examined after four to six weeks of piroxicam therapy and the extent of haematochezia, tenesmus and faecal mucus production was reduced in all cases. The owners of seven of the dogs considered the improvement in clinical signs to be good or excellent. Cases with and without evidence of inflammation responded equally well. This finding supports the hypothesis that piroxicam has an antineoplastic effect due to apoptosis and alteration in the cell cycle. Medical management with piroxicam may provide a non‐invasive treatment option for dogs with rectal polyp formation in which surgical treatment is likely to be associated with complications such as incontinence, infection and wound breakdown, or where the owner declines such treatment.
Survival of cats with naturally occurring chronic renal failure: effect of dietary management
Authors: Elliott J. , Rawlings J. M. , Markwell P. J. , Barber P. J.
Published: April 2008

Fifty cats with naturally occurring stable chronic renal failure (CRF) were entered into a prospective study on the effect of feeding a veterinary diet restricted in phosphorus and protein with or without an intestinal phosphate binding agent on their survival from initial diagnosis. Twenty‐nine cats accepted the veterinary diet, whereas compliance (due to limited intake by the cats or owner resistance to diet change) was not achieved in the remaining 21. At diagnosis, both groups of cats were matched in terms of age, bodyweight, plasma creatinine, phosphate, potassium and parathyroid hormone (PTH) concentrations, packed cell volume and urine specific gravity. Feeding the veterinary diet was associated with a reduction in plasma phosphate and urea concentrations and prevented the increase in plasma PTH concentrations seen in cats not receiving the diet. Cats fed the veterinary diet survived for longer when compared with those that were not (median survival times of 633 versus 264 days). These data suggest that feeding a diet specifically formulated to meet the needs of cats with CRF, together with phosphate binding drugs if required, controls hyperphosphataemia and secondary renal hyperparathyroidism, and is associated with an increased survival time.
Canine monocytic ehrlichiosis presenting as acute blindness 36 months after importation into the UK
Authors: Gould D. J. , Murphy K. , Rudorf H. , Crispin S. M.
Published: April 2008

A four‐year‐old Labrador retriever developed sudden‐onset blindness, associated with bilateral uveitis, intraocular haemorrhage and retinal detachment. It had been Imported into the UK from Sardinia 36 months before presentation. Haematological abnormalities included non‐regenerative anaemia, thrombocytopenia and neutropenia. Serum and urine protein electrophoresis demonstrated a monoclonal gammopathy. An immunofluorescent antibody test for Ehrlichia canis was positive, with a titre of 1:320, confirming a diagnosis of chronic monocytic ehrlichiosis. This case highlights how the prolonged subclinical phase of monocytic ehrlichiosis could enable infected dogs to enter the UK without signs of disease. Chronic monocytic ehrlichiosis should be considered in dogs which have been imported from E canis‐endemic countries and present with bleeding disorders and gammopathy, even if signs develop many years after importation.
Pemphigus foliaceus in association with systemic lupus erythematosus, and subsequent lymphoma in a cocker spaniel
Authors: Foster A. P. , Sturgess C. P. , Gould D. J. , Iwasaki T. , Day M. J.
Published: April 2008

A seven‐year‐old neutered male cocker spaniel was presented with an 11–month history of generalised bacterial dermatitis. There were skin lesions over the entire body, which were round, slightly raised and encrusted. Skin biopsies were collected and the histological findings were consistent with pemphigus foliaceus. lmmunohistochemical staining by the indirect immunoperoxidase method was positive, with desmosomal deposition of immunoglobulin (lg) G. Haematological analysis revealed a regenerative anaemia and profound thrombocytopenia, while a Coombs' test was positive for polyvalent canine Coombs' reagent and anti‐dog IgG. An antinuclear antibody test was positive, with a titre of 10, 240. An ophthalmic examination demonstrated low tear production (keratoconjunctivitis sicca). Seven months after initial referral, the dog was re‐presented with severe generalised peripheral lymphadenopathy. Radiographic evaluation of the thorax and abdomen revealed enlarged cranial mediastinal and sublumbar lymph nodes. Tru‐Cut biopsy from an enlarged lymph node confirmed the diagnosis of lymphoma, which was phenotyped as a B‐cell tumour. The diagnosis in this case was systemic lupus erythematosus, with the unusual feature of pemphigus foliaceus, and subsequent development of B‐cell lymphoma. The case adds further to knowledge of the protean clinical presentations of canine autoimmune diseases and provides additional evidence for the potential association between autoimmunity and immune‐system neoplasia in this species.
Oral medications for treating diabetes mellitus in dogs and cats
Authors: Nelson R. W.
Published: April 2008

Five classes of oral hypoglycaemic drugs and two trace minerals used to treat diabetes mellitus in humans are reviewed and current knowledge on the use of these drugs in diabetic dogs and cats is presented. Oral sulphonylurea drugs stimulate insulin secretion and have been used successfully to treat diabetes in cats but not dogs. Preliminary studies evaluating the efficacy of the biguanide, metformin, in diabetic cats have not been promising. Pharmacokinetic studies have been performed in healthy cats, but clinical studies evaluating the efficacy of the insulinsensitising drugs, thiazolidinediones, have not been reported. Treatment with the alphaglucosidase inhibitor, acarbose, improved control of glycaemia in diabetic dogs; similar studies have not been reported in cats. Although chromium picolinate did not improve control of glycaemia in diabetic dogs, vanadium has improved control of the abnormality in diabetic cats.
Diagnostic features, confirmation and disease progression in 28 cases of lethal acrodermatitis of bull terriers
Authors: McEwan N. A. , McNeil P. E. , Thompson H. , McCandush I. A. P.
Published: April 2008

Lethal acrodermatitis (LAD) is a genetically determined metabolic disease of bull terriers first described in the USA in the 1980s. In this study, the largest so far reported, 28 bull terriers born in the UK were diagnosed as suffering from LAD, and the clinical findings and the progression of the disease with time are described. The main characteristics of LAD are stunting, splayed digits, eating difficulties, skin disease of the face and feet, and increased susceptibility to microbial infections. In older dogs, paronychia, nail disease and hyperkeratosis of the footpads develops, becoming severe in dogs over six months of age. A diagnosis of LAD can be strongly suspected in any bull terrier showing a combination of the aforementioned signs from an early age.' Dermatohistopathological demonstration of marked parakeratotic hyperkeratosis is strongly supportive of the diagnosis of LAD and, in association with the typical clinical findings, is sufficient to confirm a diagnosis. Although many of the clinical signs and the pathology of this condition suggest zinc deficiency, the measurement of blood zinc levels as a diagnostic aid is of limited value.
Resolution of skin lesions and long‐term survival in a dog with superficial necrolytic dermatitis and liver cirrhosis
Authors: Hill P. B. , Auxilia S. T. , Munro E. , Genovese L. , Silkstone M. A. , Kirby B.
Published: April 2008

A nine‐year‐old, neutered female Shetland sheepdog was presented with crusted, ulcerative skin lesions affecting the footpads, commissures of the lips and the lateral canthi of the eyes. Histopathological examination of skin biopsies revealed changes consistent with superficial necrolytic dermatitis and biochemical analysis demonstrated elevated liver enzymes. Abdominal radiography revealed a small liver which, on ultrasonography, appeared diffusely mottled and showed changes suggestive of periportal fibrosis. On exploratory laparotomy, the pancreas appeared normal, but the liver was small and had multiple nodules throughout the parenchyma. This appearance was confirmed as cirrhosis on histopathological examination. The dog was placed on a hepatic support diet and treated with colchicine, essential fatty acid supplementation and raw egg yolks. After four weeks, the skin lesions had resolved and the dog remained free of clinical signs over a 22‐month follow‐up period.
Dyskinesia in an adult bichon frise
Authors: Penderis J. , Franklin R. J. M.
Published: April 2008

Dyskinesias are disorders of the central nervous system that result in involuntary movements in a fully conscious Individual. This report describes a disorder in a five‐year‐old male neutered bichon frise characterised by episodic involuntary skeletal muscle activity with normal levels of consciousness that bears some similarity to the previously described movement disorder in boxer puppies and to the human condition descriptively referred to as paroxysmal dystonic choreoathetosis. The disorder was differentiated from partial motor seizure activity by the character of the episodes, absence of identifiable preceding aura, absence of autonomic signs and the fact that multiple limbs were affected in a varying pattern without generalisation and loss of consciousness. Movement disorders are a well documented group of disorders in human neurology, but only rarely described in the veterinary literature. The purpose of this report Is to contribute to an increased awareness of movement disorders within veterinary practice.
Intrathoracic lipoma in a Labrador retriever
Authors: Miles J. , Clarke D.
Published: April 2008

Pyrexia, granulocytosis and hyperglobulinaemla were the main clinical findings in an unusual case of Intrathoracic lipoma in a 12‐year‐old male Labrador retriever. The response to antibiotic and anti‐inflammatory treatment was poor, prompting further investigation. Survey radiographs and ultrasonography revealed a cavitated, fluid‐filled soft tissue mass in the right hemithorax, which was successfully removed resulting in rapid resolution of clinical signs. Lipomas are rare intrathoracic extrapulmonary tumours. Previously reported clinical signs are dyspnoea and coughing, attributed to the mass effect of the lipoma. The unusual presentation in this case was caused by necrosis of the lipoma, probably owing to torsion of the pedicle attaching it to the cranial mediastinum.
Resolution of dysphagia following cricopharyngeal myectomy in six young dogs
Authors: Niles J. D. , Williams J. M. , Sullivan M. , Crowsley F. E.
Published: April 2008

Six young dogs were presented with a history of dysphagia and nasal regurgitation since birth. Following cranial nerve examination and assessment of swallowing with fluoroscopy, a diagnosis of cricopharyngeal achalasia was made in each case. In four dogs, concomitant aspiration pneumonia was present. Sectioning and removal of part of the cricopharyngeal muscle resulted in immediate and continued resolution of all signs of dysphagia and nasal regurgitation over follow‐up periods of two to eight years. Postoperative complications were not seen in any case. In five of the six dogs, the cricopharyngeal muscle was approached laterally, a technique not previously described.
Atlantoaxial cartilaginous exostosis causing spinal cord compression in a mature Bernese mountain dog
Authors: Bhatti S. , Ham L. Van , Putcuyps I. , Bosschere H. De , Polis I. , Goethem B. Van
Published: April 2008

Cartilaginous exostosis developed in the atlantoaxial region of a three‐and‐a‐half‐year‐old Bernese mountain dog. The dog exhibited ataxia in the hindlimbs and flailing movements In the forelimbs. On survey radiographs of the cervical spine there was a focal calcified mass between the dorsal arch of the atlas and the spinous process of the axis. Lumbar myelography revealed severe dorsal spinal cord compression. The mass was removed surgically and the dog made a complete recovery. Hlstopathology of the excised mass was consistent with a diagnosis of cartilaginous exostosis.1
Atresia of the distal external acoustic meatus in a Bouvier des Flandres
Authors: House A.
Published: April 2008

A five‐year‐old male Bouvier des Flandres was presented with chronic otalgia of approximately four and a half years' duration. Atresia of the external acoustic meatus was diagnosed. A total ear canal ablation and bulla osteotomy were performed. All symptoms of otalgia resolved within two weeks of surgery.1
Feline hypertension: clinical findings and response to antihypertensive treatment in 30 cases
Authors: Elliott J. , Barber P. J. , Syme H. M. , Rawlings J. M. , Markwell P. J.
Published: April 2008

Systolic hypertension was diagnosed in 30 cats. At diagnosis, 16 of those were found to be in chronic renal failure only, while five were azotaemic and either receiving treatment for hyperthyroidism (four cases) or were untreated hyperthyroid cases (one case). Two cases were untreated hyperthyroid cases with no evidence of azotaemia and the remaining seven cases had no definitive diagnosis of the underlying cause of their hypertension. The successful treatment used for the majority of cases was amlodipine, which lowered systolic blood pressure from 202‐5 ±16‐8 to 153‐2 ±21‐6 mmHg (mean ±SD; n=29) within the first 50 days. Each case was followed for at least three months, or to the end of its natural life, and each cat was re‐examined every six to eight weeks. Systolic blood pressure was kept below a target value of 165 mmHg in 58 per cent of cases treated for three months or longer. At the time of writing, 19 of the cases had died or been euthanased with a median treatment time of 203 days, one case was lost to follow‐up and 10 cases were still alive, nine of which had been treated for six months or more. Amlodipine can be used for long‐term control of feline systemic hypertension.
Canine hypertrophic osteoarthropathy associated with a malignant Sertoli cell tumour
Authors: Barrand K. R. , Scudamore C. L.
Published: April 2008

A 15‐year‐old crossbred dog was presented with a severe cough of acute onset and an enlarged right testis. Symptomatic treatment for presumed ‘kennel cough’ failed to produce any improvement and at re‐examination the dog had developed a swollen right forelimb. Radiographic examination suggested a diagnosis of hypertrophic pulmonary osteoarthropathy (Marie's disease) associated with pulmonary metastases from a testicular tumour. The dog was re‐presented five days later with acute‐onset severe vomiting and the owner elected for euthanasia. Necropsy was performed and histopathological assessment confirmed the presence of a Sertoli cell tumour in the right testis with multiple pulmonary and renal metastases. Hypertrophic pulmonary osteoarthropathy is a rare complication of metastatic canine Sertoli cell tumour. The authors know of no previously reported cases.
Removal of oesophageal foreign bodies in dogs: use of the fluoroscopic method and outcome
Authors: Moore A. Hotston
Published: April 2008

The case records of dogs with a diagnosis of oesophageal foreign body were reviewed and the owners of affected dogs contacted by telephone to ascertain whether there had been any long‐term adverse sequelae. Case records of admissions between August 1993 and August 1998 were used. There were 65 admissions for this problem during the period. In 61 instances, forceps manipulation orally under fluoroscopic guidance was attempted to remove the foreign body. This was successful in 51 instances. Animals were followed up for a median of 24 months (minimum of four months). Three animals died or were euthanased in hospital. Two further animals died within two weeks of discharge. In the cases for which follow‐up was available, 42 were reported to be normal, one animal had a recurrence, one had a voice change and two had occasional coughing. Fluoroscopic‐guided forceps retrieval appears to be an effective method of treatment and long‐term complications are uncommon
Juvenile nephropathy in a Samoyed bitch
Authors: Rawdon T. G.
Published: April 2008

A case of juvenile nephropathy is reported in a 16‐week‐old Samoyed bitch. Clinical, laboratory and gross postmortem findings followed by histological analysis of kidney, liver and cerebrum and transmission electron microscopy of renal tissue are described. The histological and ultrastructural findings are similar to those found in a line of related Samoyeds in Canada, termed Samoyed hereditary glomerulopathy. The case is, however, distinct from those documented in Canada as the condition is present in a young female and the mode of inheritance elucidated in Canada is one of X‐linked dominance, with the disease only developing in its juvenile form in males.
Hepatic cirrhosis in a five‐month‐old dog
Authors: Lucena R. , Mozos E. , Bautista M. J. , Ginel P. J. , Perez J.
Published: April 2008

The clinicopathological features of an unusual case of a five‐month‐old male Spanish mastiff, which was presented with clinical signs indicative of severe hepatic failure, are reported. Fluid replacement therapy, colloid plasma expanders, antibiotics and diuretic drugs were unsuccessful in improving the animal's general condition, and euthanasia was elected by the owner. On necropsy, ascites and severe cirrhosis, with extensive periacinar necrosis, was found. Cirrhosis is a rare lesion in young dogs. The most common causes are circulatory disturbances, hereditary metabolic disorders or poisoning, such as aflatoxicosis and anticonvulsant therapy. The possible involvement of canine adenovirus in this case is discussed.
Chronic idiopathic intestinal pseudo‐obstruction in an English bulldog
Authors: Dvir E. , Leisewitz A. L. , Lugt J. J. Van DER
Published: April 2008

A case of chronic idiopathic intestinal pseudo‐obstruction in an English bulldog is described. The dog was presented with chronic weight loss and vomiting. An intestinal obstruction was suspected based on clinical and radiological findings. A diagnosis of chronic idiopathic intestinal pseudo‐obstruction was made on the basis of full thickness intestinal biopsies. The dog was refractory to any antiemetic therapy. Necropsy revealed marked atrophy and fibrosis of the tunica muscularis, together with a mononuclear cell infiltrate extending from the duodenum to the colon. This case was presented with clinical findings consistent with visceral myopathy in humans ‐namely, atony and dilatation of the whole gut ‐ but the histological findings resembled sclerosis limited to the gastrointestinal tract.
Battered pets‘: non‐accidental physical injuries found in dogs and cats
Authors: MUNRO H. M. C. , Thrusfield M. V.
Published: April 2008

Records of 243 cases of non‐accidental injury (NAI) in dogs, and 182 cases in cats, submitted by a sample of small animal practitioners in the UK, revealed a wide range of Injuries. These included bruises, fractures, repetitive injuries, bums and scalds, stab and incised wounds, poisoning, asphyxiation and drowning (which showed remarkable similarities to NAI in children), as well as sexual abuse and injuries specifically caused by firearms. Traumatic skeletal injuries in the dogs were more commonly found in the anterior part of the skeleton, in comparison with those resulting from road traffic accidents. Young male dogs and young cats were particularly at risk of NAI. A moderately increased risk was identified in the Staffordshire bull terrier, cross‐breed dogs and the domestic shorthaired cat, whereas the Labrador retriever showed a decreased risk. No single injury or group of injuries, when divorced from the circumstances surrounding a suspect case, could be considered to Indicate, conclusively, NAI. Repetitive injuries, however, were highly suggestive of NAI.
Partial bladder resection in a bitch with urinary retention following surgical excision of a vaginal leiomyoma
Authors: Tanaka R. , Hoshi K. , Yamane Y.
Published: April 2008

Ovariohysterectomy and surgical excision of a vaginal leiomyoma were performed in a bitch exhibiting continuous bleeding from the vulva. Following excision of the tumour, urine retention and urinary incontinence developed. Treatment using drugs and an indwelling catheter was unsuccessful in correcting the disorders and chronic cystitis developed after long‐standing urine stagnation in the bladder. The authors resorted to undertaking partial cystectomy in order to correct the condition, which resulted in reduced urine retention and improved micturition.
Radiographic features of a lateral extracapsular wire suture in the canine cranial cruciate deficient stifle
Authors: Stork C. K. , Gibson N. R. , Owen M. R. , Li A. , Schwarz T. , Bennett D. , Carmichael S.
Published: April 2008

Radiographs of 74 dogs (84 stifles) presented with a cranial cruciate ligament rupture and surgically treated using a lateral extracapsular wire (LEW) were reviewed. A strand of orthopaedic wire was surgically placed caudally around the lateral fabella and through a predrilled hole in the tibial crest. At six week follow‐up, the LEW was broken at least once in 26 of 33 stifles, predominantly in the area of the lateral fabella. In five stifles, the LEW had slipped off the fabella and was displaced distally along the gastrocnemius muscle. Six months after surgery, the LEW was often broken at several sites. LEW migration was rare. Osteolysis and sclerosis at the site of LEW penetration through the tibial crest occurred in about two‐thirds of the stifles examined.
Field efficacy of a 10 per cent pyriproxyfen spot‐on for the prevention of flea infestations on cats
Authors: Maynard L. , Houffschmitt P. , Lebreux B.
Published: April 2008

The clinical application of a new method for using the insect growth regulator, pyriproxyfen, for controlling flea populations in cat‐owning homes is evaluated for the first time. In a multicentric, controlled and randomised trial, 107 flea‐infested cats were treated with a minimum dose of 10 mg/kg bodyweight pyriproxyfen as a 10 per cent spot‐on application on two occasions, with a three‐month interval between doses. For comparison, 99 cats received lufenuron suspension orally, once a month, for six months. Flea counts decreased significantly over time in each group and were significantly lower in the pyriproxyfen group than in cats treated with the reference product. The percentage of ‘zero‐flea’ cats increased from 49 per cent on day 30 to 88 per cent on day 180 in the pyriproxyfen group and from 30 to 71 per cent in the lufenuron group at the same time points (P<0–05). Appropriately timed topical applications of pyriproxyfen, therefore, offer a method of flea control in the domestic environment.
‘Battered pets’: sexual abuse
Authors: Munro H. M. C. , Thrusfield M. V.
Published: April 2008

A study of non‐accidental injury in small animals in the UK, based on responses from a random sample of small animal practitioners, identified 6 per cent of the 448 reported cases as being sexual in nature. Twenty‐one cases occurred in dogs, five in cats and two in unspecified species. Reasons for suspecting sexual abuse were: the type of injury; behaviour of the owner; statements from witnesses; and admission by the perpetrator. Types of injury included vaginal and anorectal penetrative (penile and non‐penile) injury, perianal damage, and trauma to the genitals. Some injuries (such as castration) were extreme, and some were fatal. In contrast, other cases revealed no obvious damage. The type and severity of injuries were similar to those described in texts on child abuse and human forensic pathology.
Congenital unilateral cleft of the soft palate in six dogs
Authors: Warzee C. C. , Bellah J. R. , Richards D.
Published: April 2008

Unilateral cleft of the soft palate occurs sporadically in dogs, and there are few reports in the veterinary literature regarding its aetiology and management. This report describes six dogs with the condition. The dogs' primary presenting problem was rhinitis. The defects were successfully repaired using a two‐layer closure technique with absorbable suture in five of the cases. Surgical correction was not performed in the remaining case.
Acute respiratory failure caused by leukaemic infiltration of the lung of a dog
Authors: Mori T. , Kadosawa T. , Okada Y. , Ochiai K. , Umemura T. , Tanoue S‐i. , Okumura M. , Fujinaga T.
Published: April 2008

A seven‐year‐old crossbred male dog with a suspected leukaemic condition was referred for investigation and treatment. A bone marrow aspirate revealed an acute myeloid leukaemia. Combination chemotherapy was administered and the dog initially improved, but 18 days after the initiation of therapy its body condition deteriorated and the animal developed acute respiratory distress. On postmortem examination, extensive leukaemic pulmonary infiltrates were evident.
Discospondylitis associated with three unreported bacteria in the dog
Authors: Adamo P. F. , Cherubini G. B.
Published: April 2008

Three cases of discospondylitis in the dog, caused respectively by Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Enterococcus faecalis and Staphylococcus epidermidis, are reported. These bacteria have not previously been documented as being the cause of the condition in this species. The neurological involvement was severe in all three cases. Two dogs were paraplegic and one was tetraplegia and one of the paraplegic dogs had no deep pain on the extremities of both pelvic limbs. All dogs were treated surgically with a satisfactory neurological recovery.
Subluxation/luxation of the second carpal bone in two racing greyhounds and a Staffordshire bull terrier
Authors: Guilliard M. J. , Mayo A. K.
Published: April 2008

Subluxation of the second carpal bone (C2) in two racing greyhounds, and luxation associated with other carpal injuries in a Staffordshire bull terrier, were diagnosed as causes of thoracic limb lameness. The clinical signs of subluxation were subtle, with local soft tissue swelling and a pain reaction on digital pressure over the dorsal aspect of C2. In contrast, the dog with a complete luxation was very lame, having marked soft tissue swelling with carpal hyperextension and valgus. Diagnosis was made by radiography. Subluxation of C2 was seen as a small, dorsally displaced opacity between the proximal and distal rows of carpal bones on the mediolateral view and, on the oblique view taken in only one case, as a marked dorsal displacement of one‐third of the proximal joint surface of C2. In the case of luxation, C2 appeared on the mediolateral view lying dorsal to the radial carpal bone. There was also fracture of C4. Both greyhounds were treated by internal fixation and returned to racing. The Staffordshire bull terrier was treated by pancarpal arthrodesis with a successful outcome.