bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigation of a Novel, Heritable Bleeding Diathesis of Thoroughbred Horses and Development of a Screening Assay
Authors: Norris Jeffrey W. , Pratt Suzanne M. , Auh Joong‐Hyuck , Wilson Sandra J. , Clutter Dana , Magdesian K. Gary , Ferraro Gregory L. , Tablin Fern
Published: March 2010

Background:Bleeding in racing horses associated with exercise appears to be multifactorial, and clinical investigation into severe cases rarely occurs. Previously, we reported a severe bleeding diathesis in a Thoroughbred mare. Herein, we describe the cellular physiology of this defect, provide a diagnostic tool for identifying it, and demonstrate that the dysfunction is heritable.

Hypothesis:The subject has a heritable defect in platelet secretion that reduces thrombin generation in the absence of additional plasma factors and delays the onset of thrombin production even in the presence of these factors.

Animals:The study included 3 clinically normal Thoroughbred horses: the subject and her offspring.

Methods:Washed platelets were examined for their ability to (1) translocate phosphatidylserine to the outer leaflet of the platelet membrane as determined by annexin‐V binding, (2) generate thrombin as assessed by the activity of the prothrombinase enzyme complex, and (3) bind fibrinogen and form aggregates as determined by flow cytometry.

Results:Subject and offspring platelets created procoagulant surfaces by translocating phosphatidylserine. The subject's platelets demonstrated reduced prothrombinase activity, resulting in decreased production of thrombin relative to control platelets. Subject and offspring platelets bound less fibrinogen than control platelets when stimulated with thrombin.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance: The subject mare has a transmissible defect that involves reduced generation of thrombin by activated platelets, resulting in decreased aggregation and ineffective clotting. A flow cytometric assay of fibrinogen binding to washed platelets discriminates individuals with this platelet dysfunction and may be useful for discerning subclinical congenital or acquired platelet dysfunctions.
Prognostic Value of Plasma L‐Lactate Concentration Measured Cow‐Side with a Portable Clinical Analyzer in Holstein Dairy Cattle with Abomasal Disorders
Authors: Figueiredo Monica D. , Nydam Daryl V. , Perkins Gillian A. , Mitchell Hilda M. , Divers Thomas J.
Published: March 2010

Background:L‐Lactate has been used as a prognostic indicator for ill humans and animals. A portable analyzer that measuresl‐lactate could help veterinarians decide to proceed with correction of a displaced abomasum.

Hypotheses: The likelihood of a dairy cow with a displaced abomasum remaining in the herd can be predicted by lactate concentration and other variables.

Animals:Thirty‐four healthy early‐lactation dairy cows, and 131 cows with abomasal displacements (DA) presented to Cornell University, Ithaca, NY.

Methods:Plasma L‐lactate was measured using a commercial analyzer (i‐STAT). A cow had a positive outcome (PO) if she remained in the herd 30 days after surgical correction of the displaced abomasum and a negative outcome (NO) if she was culled or died in that time. A multivariable model with physical examination and clinicopathologic variables for predicting NO for cows with right‐sided abomasal displacements was constructed.

Results:The median plasmal‐lactate was 0.54 mM/L (interquartile range, 0.42–0.74) in healthy lactating Holstein cows. In cows with right‐sided displaced abomasa, median plasmal‐lactate concentrations were higher in cows with NO (5.88 mM/L) versus PO (3.23 mM/L) (P= .002). In a multivariable model, which identified chloride, heart rate, andl‐lactate as the best fitting variables for cows with right‐sided displacements, the probability of NO increased asl‐lactate increased.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance: Plasmal‐lactate concentration might be a useful predictor of productive outcomes in cows with right‐sided abomasal disorders.
Review of Pododermatitis Circumscripta (Ulceration of the Sole) in Dairy Cows
Authors: van Amstel Sarel R. , Shearer Jan K.
Published: March 2010

Sole ulcers are among the most frequent causes of lameness in dairy cattle. They are found most commonly in the hind lateral claw, are frequently bilateral, and have a high rate of reoccurrence. The pathogenesis of sole ulceration is primarily based on mechanical injury by the 3rd phalanx to the corium, basement membrane, and basal layers of the sole epidermis as a result of failure of the suspensory apparatus in the claw. The main pathways in the failure of the suspensory system include inflammatory (dermal vascular changes followed by disruption of keratinocyte proliferation and differentiation caused by local and systemic mediators) and noninflammatory (hormonal and biochemical changes in the peripartum period resulting in alterations of connective tissue in the suspensory system) pathways. Sole ulcers tend to occur in specific locations; the most reported site is the junction of the axial heel and sole. Other locations include the apex of the toe and the heel. Varying degrees of lameness may result, and the most severe are seen with complicated cases in which ascending infection affects the deeper structures of the claw. Pathologic changes at the ulcer site include dyskeratosis and dilated horn tubules with microcracks. Vascular changes include dilatation and thrombosis of capillaries with “neocapillary formation.” Areas of dyskeratosis may remain for as long as 50 days at the ulcer site. Treatment includes corrective trimming and relief of weight bearing. Complicated cases may require surgical intervention.
Association ofHelicobacterwith Cholangiohepatitis in Cats
Authors: Greiter‐Wilke Andrea , Scanziani E. , Soldati S. , McDonough S.P. , McDonough P.L. , Center S.A. , Rishniw M. , Simpson K.W.
Published: March 2010

Infection withHelicobacterspp. is increasingly linked with hepatobiliary inflammation and neoplasia in people and in a variety of animals. We sought to determine ifHelicobacterspecies infection is associated with Cholangiohepatitis in cats. Deoxyribonucleic acid was extracted from tissue blocks from cats with Cholangiohepatitis (32), noninflammatory liver disease (13), and cats with normal liver histology (4). Deoxyribonucleic acid was polymerase chain reaction‐amplified with 2 sets ofHelicobactergenus‐specific primers, gel purified, and sequenced. Polymerase chain reaction‐positive hepatic tissue was further examined with Steiner's stain, immunocytochemistry forHelicobacterspecies, and eubacterial fluorescent in situ hybridization. Gastric tissues of cats with knownHelicobacterinfection status served as controls for deoxyribonucleic acid extraction and sequence comparison.Helicobacterspecies were detected in 2/32 cats with Cholangiohepatitis, and 1/17 controls. Sequences had 100% identity withHelicobacterspecies liver,Helicobacter pylori, andHelicobacter fenelliaelcinaediiin a cat with suppurative cholangitis,Helicobacterspecies liver,Helicobacter pylori, andHelicobacter nemistrineaein a cat with mild lymphocytic portal hepatitis, andHelicobacter billsin a cat with portosystemic vascular anomaly. In contrast, sequences from gastric biopsies showed highest homology (99–100%) to“Helicobacter heilmannii,” Helicobacter bizzozeronii, Helicobacter felis, andHelicobacter salomonis.Fluorescent in situ hybridization revealed a semicurved bacterium, withHelicobacter‐like morphology, in an intrahepatic bile duct of the cat with suppurative cholangitis. This study has identifiedHelicobacterdeoxyribonucleic acid in 2/32 cats with Cholangiohepatitis and 1/13 cats with noninflammatory liver disease. Deoxyribonucleic acid sequences of hepaticHelicobacterspecies were distinct from those found in the stomach and are broadly consistent with those identified in cat intestine and bile, and hepatobiliary disease in people and rodents.
Dried Solidified Blood Calculi in the Urinary Tract of Cats
Authors: Westropp Jodi L. , Ruby Annette L. , Bailiff Nathan L. , Kyles Andrew E. , Ling Gerald V.
Published: March 2010

We have noted an increased number of calculi submitted to the Gerald V. Ling Urinary Stone Analysis Laboratory, University of California, Davis, that do not contain crystalline material but appear to be composed of dried solidified blood (DSB). Canine and feline laboratory records from 1986–2003 were reviewed for samples composed of > 99% DSB. No calculi from dogs were found, but specimens from 49 cats were composed of > 99% DSB, of which almost half (n = 22) had been submitted after 2001. The DSB calculi had been removed surgically or by postmortem examination from all areas of the upper and lower urinary tract. All samples were well formed and could be divided in half with Rongeur forceps. Detailed case information was available for 12 cats. Urinalyses were available for 9 of the 12 cats, and the mean specific gravity was 1.017 (range, 1.009–1.032). Red blood cells were reported in the sediment of all cats, with most containing > 100 RBC/hpf. Ureteral obstructions but no radio‐opaque calculi were visible by radiography, including radiographic contrast studies. Reports of ultrasound examinations were available for 10 cats, and discrete calculi were not recorded. In addition to polarized light microscopy, infrared spectroscopy and electron probe microanalysis were performed on a subset (n = 6, DSB calculi; n = 3, control calculi) of samples. Significantly more carbon, nitrogen, and sulfur (P= .012,P= .02, andP= .012, respectively) were present in the elemental analysis of the DSB calculi than in the control calculi, suggesting that the DSB calculi are primarily formed from organic material. At this time, we are uncertain why these DSB calculi become solidified, and we recommend that samples be submitted both in formalin and preservative free to further investigate their etiology.
Failure of Imidocarb Dipropionate to Clear Experimentally InducedEhrlichia canisInfection in Dogs
Authors: Eddlestone S.M. , Neer T.M. , Gaunt S.D. , Corstvet R. , Gill A. , Hosgood G. , Hegarty B. , Breitschwerdt E.B.
Published: March 2010

The recommended treatment for canine ehrlichiosis is tetracycline or its analog doxycycline, although recent reports have documented ineffective clearing ofErchlichia canisafter doxycycline administration. Imidocarb dipropionate is used as an alternative treatment to tetracycline or is used in conjunction with doxycycline. The effectiveness of imidocarb dipropionate in clearingEhrlichiaspecies from the blood and tissues of dogs withE canisinfection has not been thoroughly evaluated. Fifteen dogs were experimentally infected withE canis.Ten dogs were treated with imidocarb dipropionate (6.6 mg/kg, IM, 2 injections given 2 weeks apart). Five infected control dogs were not treated. Blood samples from all 15 dogs wereE canisDNA positive by PCR assay by 3 weeks after inoculation (PI), andE canisantibodies were detected by IFA assay by 1 week PI. Blood platelet counts in all dogs were below the reference interval by 4 weeks PI.E canisDNA was detected in bone marrow and splenic aspirates by PCR assay 4 weeks PI but not before infection. Bone marrow aspirates wereE canisDNA positive by PCR assay in 14/15 dogs, and splenic aspirates wereE canisDNA positive by PCR assay in 13/15 dogs. Blood samples from all treated and control dogs remained positive forE canisDNA by PCR assay, and platelet counts remained below preinoculation values 13 weeks PI (6 weeks after 2nd treatment). As administered in this study, imidocarb dipropionate did not clear experimentalE canisinfection in dogs.
Frequency and Risk Factors for Urinary Tract Infection in Cats with Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Bailiff N.L. , Nelson R.W. , Feldman E.C. , Westropp J.L. , Ling G.V. , Jang S.S. , Kass P.H.
Published: March 2010

Background: Identification and control of infections are important in the management of diabetic cats. Urinary tract infections have not been well characterized in diabetic cats. This retrospective study was performed to review and characterize urinary tract infections in diabetic cats.

Hypothesis: Urinary tract infections are common in diabetic cats.

Animals: A review was made of the medical records of 141 diabetic cats that had had urine obtained for culture by antepubic cystocentesis and that had not been treated with antibiotics, undergone urinary tract catheterization or urinary tract surgery within 2 weeks of urine collection or had urethral obstruction at the time of urine collection.

Methods: A review of medical records.

Results: Urinary tract infection was identified in 18 of 141 diabetic cats.Escherichia coliwas the most common isolate (67%). Female cats were at increased risk (prevalence odds ratios [POR], 3.7; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.3 to 10.2;P= .013). Clinical signs of lower urinary tract disease and findings on urine sediment examination were good predictors of positive urine cultures.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance: Urinary tract infections are common in diabetic cats regardless of status of diabetic control, suggesting routine monitoring with urine sediment exams or urine culture is warranted.
Copper‐Associated Chronic Hepatitis in Labrador Retrievers
Authors: Hoffmann G. , van den Ingh T.S.G.A.M. , Bode P. , Rothuizen J.
Published: March 2010

This study summarizes the clinical and pathologic findings in 15 Labrador Retrievers with copper‐associated chronic hepatitis (CACH). Our hypothesis was that this form of hepatitis is caused by a defect in hepatic copper metabolism, which most likely originates from a genetic defect. Affected Labradors consisted of 11 female and 4 male Labrador Retrievers. Eight family members of 2 of these patients were examined prospectively, as were 6 unrelated healthy Labrador Retrievers. All dogs were registered at the breed club. The average age at clinical presentation was 7 years (range, 2.5–10.5 years). All dogs were presented for anorexia, which was associated with vomiting in 8 patients. The diagnosis of CACH was based on histologic examination of liver biopsy specimens in all dogs, including semiquantitation of copper. A disproportionate increase in alanine aminotransferase (ALT) activity relative to alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity, as well as the centrolobular localization of copper and the association of copper accumulation with hepatic lesions, suggested a primary copper storage disease rather than primary cholestatic liver disease causing copper accumulation. Mean hepatic copper concentration measured in related Labradors was 1,317 μg/g dry weight liver (range, 402–2,576 μg/g). Mean hepatic copper concentration of unrelated normal Labradors was 233 μg/g dry weight liver (range, 120–304 μg/g). Our findings support the hypothesis that a hereditary form of hepatitis occurs in Labrador retrievers and is caused by a defect in hepatic copper metabolism.
Prospective Evaluation of the Balloon‐to‐Annulus Ratio for Valvuloplasty in the Treatment of Pulmonic Stenosis in the Dog
Authors: Estrada Amara , Moïse N. Sydney , Erb Hollis N. , McDonough Sean P. , Renaud‐Farrell Shari
Published: March 2010

Background: In dogs, treatment of pulmonic valve stenosis (PS) with pulmonary balloon valvuloplasty (PBV) is a viable method to decrease the pressure gradient across the valve. However, to the authors' knowledge, the variables that influence the selection of the correct balloon size for the procedure have not been explored. Moreover, the lesions caused by the procedure have not been detailed.

Hypothesis: Variables that influence the measurement of the annulus could affect selection of the balloon size. We sought to determine the effects of treatment when the balloon‐to‐annulus ratio (BAR) was or > 1.3, but within the recommended range of 1.2–1.5, regardless of whether dilation was performed with single or double balloon technique.

Animals: Twenty‐five Beagles with PS were studied.

Methods: Inter‐and intra‐observer variability, echocardiography versus angiocardiography, and systolic versus diastolic timing were evaluated for the BAR. Assessment of right ventricular (RV) pressure, Doppler gradient, stenotic valve area, and RV wall thickness were compared before and 1, 90, and 180 days after treatment. Postmortem examination of the heart was done.

Results: Significant correlations existed in measurement of the annulus; however, variation existed that would change balloon size. Improvement in the degree of PS was significant regardless of the BAR or single or double ballooning. In the most severely affected dogs, continued improvement was noted on day 90. Postmortem examination revealed tears in the commissures and the valve leaflets.

Conclusions: Multiple factors influenced determination of the BAR and a range of 1.2–1.5 was effective without detrimental consequences. Dogs with severe PS had continued decrease in RV pressure 3 months after treatment.
Validation of 2 Techniques for Electrocardiographic Recording in Dogs and Cats
Authors: Ferasin Luca , Amodio Annarita , Murray Jane K.
Published: March 2010

Background: Standard electrocardiographic (ECG) recording in the dog and cat is commonly performed in right lateral recumbency, by connecting the ECG leads to the skin of the patient via metallic alligator clips. The jaws of the alligator clips are usually filed or flattened to reduce their uncomfortable pressure on the patient's skin. However, filed and flattened alligator clips can occasionally lose their grip to the skin, causing lead detachment during standard ECG recording.

Hypothesis: The aim of the study was to validate two novel ECG recording techniques (“gel” and “pads”).

Animals: Six‐lead standard ECG recording was obtained from 42 dogs and 40 cats using the standard technique, as well as the two novel methods.

Methods: Measurements were taken of the amplitude and duration of P waves and QRS complexes, duration of PQ and QT intervals, and mean electrical axis (MEA). In each recording, five representative complexes were measured, and the results were averaged for each parameter.

Results: A good quality ECG recording was obtained with all the three different techniques, although a degree of wandering trace was observed in one third of cats with the “pads” technique. Bland‐Altman analysis showed good agreement between the ECG values recorded with the two novel techniques and those recorded with the standard traditional technique. Furthermore, the observed differences were not clinically relevant, except for the R wave amplitude recorded with the “pads” method in cats (‐0.35 to 0.37 mV).

Conclusions and Clinical Importance: In conclusion, this study supports the reliability and clinical validity of the “gel” and “pads” techniques for ECG recording both in the dog and the cat, with some limitations for the “pads” technique in cats.
Applications, Complications, and Outcomes of Transvenous Pacemaker Implantation in 105 Dogs (1997–2002)
Authors: Wess Gerhard , Thomas William P. , Berger Denise M. , Kittleson Mark D.
Published: March 2010

We reviewed the indications for age and breeds of dogs who received transvenous endocardial artificial pacemaker (AP) implantation (n = 105) and complications and survival thereafter at a single institution over a 6‐year period. A third‐degree atrioventricular (AV) block (59%) and sick sinus syndrome (SSS; 27%) were the most common indications, along with a high‐grade second‐degree AV block (9%) and atrial standstill (5%). The most common breeds identified were Labrador Retriever (n = 16; 11 with a third‐degree AV block), American Cocker Spaniel (n = 14; 10 with SSS), and Miniature Schnauzer (n = 13; all with SSS). Common presenting complaints were syncope (n = 66) and exercise intolerance or lethargy (n = 25). Half of the dogs (n = 52) had a history of acute onset of clinical signs (< 2 weeks). Mean survival time for the 60 dogs who died during the study period was 2.2 years (range, 0.1–5.8 years). Major complications occurred in 13% of dogs and included lead displacement (n = 7), sensing problems that led to syncope (n = 3), infection at the pacemaker site (n = 1), bleeding (n = 1), and ventricular fibrillation during implantation (n = 1; successfully defibrillated). Minor complications occurred in 11 dogs (11%). The success rate of transvenous AP implantation was comparatively high (all dogs survived the first 48 hours), and the complication rate was comparatively low when compared with a previous multicenter study, most likely because of how commonly the procedure was performed and supervisory experience.
Ultrasonographic Assessment of Regional Radial and Longitudinal Systolic Function in Healthy Awake Dogs
Authors: Chetboul Valerie , Sampedrano Carolina Carlos , Gouni Vassiliki , Nicolle Audrey P. , Pouchelon Jean‐Louis , Tissier Renaud
Published: March 2010

Background: Strain (St) and strain rate (SR) imaging are new ultrasound modalities based on tissue Doppler imaging (TDI) that allow quantitative assessment of segmental myocardial contraction or stretching and rate of deformation, respectively.

Hypothesis: Regional peak systolic St and SR could allow repeatable and reproducible assessment of systolic function of the right (RVW) and left (LVFW) myocardial walls in dogs.

Animals: Six healthy Beagle dogs were used to determine the repeatability and reproducibility of regional peak systolic St and SR in the RVW and LVFW (Study 1). These variables were also assessed in 30 healthy dogs of several breeds (Study 2).

Methods: Longitudinal peak systolic St and SR were recorded in 2 segments (basal and apical) of the RVW and LVFW. Radial peak systolic St and SR of the LVFW were also assessed.

Results: All within‐and most (7/10) between‐day coefficients of variation were < 15%. Absolute values of the longitudinal deformation indices were significantly higher (P < .001) in the RVW (St = ‐39.5 ± 5.5% and SR = ‐5.2 ± 0.8 s‐1 at the base; St = ‐36.3 ± 4.3% and SR = ‐4.7 ± 1.1 s‐1 at the apex) than in the LVFW. Absolute values were also higher for the radial (St = 62.9 ± 10.4% and SR = 5.8 ± 1.1 s‐1, P < .001) than for the longitudinal LFVW motions.

Conclusions and clinical importance: St and SR imaging is a repeatable and reproducible method for assessing systolic myocardial function. The combination of these indices with conventional echocardiographic variables may be useful for screening canine myocardial diseases.
Heart Disease as a Cause of Death in Insured Swedish Dogs Younger Than 10 Years of Age
Authors: Egenvall Agneta , Bonnett Brenda N. , Häggström Jens
Published: March 2010

Background: Population‐based information on disease occurrence is paramount in clinical decision making and in designing preventative measures, but such information is scarce.

Hypothesis: The risk of cardiac death is higher in certain breeds and mortality varies by age and sex.

Dogs: Dogs that were life insured by an animal insurance company between 1995 and 2002.

Methods: The mortality pattern for heart disease in insured dogs up to 10 years of age was studied. The influences of sex, age, breed, month, and geographic location were investigated by means of incidence rates, proportions, and survival proportions. Cox proportional hazards regression was used to model time to heart disease.

Results: 405,376 dogs contributed to a denominator of 1,431,933 dog‐years at risk (DYAR) and 3,049 dogs had been assigned a cardiac‐related diagnosis as cause of death. The cardiac‐related mortality for dogs < 10 years of age, was 21.3 deaths per 10,000 DYAR. This mortality in males and females was 27.3 deaths and 15.4 deaths per 10,000 DYAR, respectively. Twelve of 54 breeds had a point estimate above the overall rate. The 3 breeds with the highest point estimates were: Irish Wolfhounds, Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, and Great Danes (rates of 356, 247, and 179 deaths per 10,000 DYAR, respectively).

Conclusions and Clinical Importance: Breed, age, and sex affect cardiac mortality in certain breeds of dogs, but no effects of month and geographic location were identified. These findings can assist clinicians in establishing diagnoses, and can assist breeders in defining priorities for preventative measures.
Echocardiographic Assessment of the Left Ventricular Outflow Tract in the Boxer
Authors: Koplitz S.L. , Meurs K.M. , Bonagura J.D.
Published: March 2010

Background: Soft, variable ejection murmurs are common in Boxers and are associated with increased left ventricular outflow tract (LVOT) ejection velocities. Whether these murmurs are physiologic or indicate mild aortic stenosis is controversial. Ejection velocity is impacted by LVOT area and ventricular stroke volume (SV), suggesting that these variables are pertinent to murmur development.

Hypothesis: Boxers with ejection murmurs have a smaller LVOT and equivalent SV indices, compared with values in dogs without murmurs.

Animals: Three age‐and weight‐matched groups of dogs—15 Boxers with soft ejection murmurs (group I); 15 Boxers without murmurs (group II); and 15 nonBoxer dogs without murmurs (group III) — were studied.

Methods: All dogs underwent 2‐dimensional and Doppler echocardiographic examinations. The LVOT size at multiple levels; LVOT ejection velocity, stroke distance, and SV index; and right ventricular SV index were determined and compared by analysis of variance.

Results: Indexed LVOT areas in Boxer groups were not different, but were significantly smaller than those of non‐Boxer dogs. Ejection velocities and stroke distances were significantly different across all groups, with group I having the highest and group III having the lowest values. Doppler SV indices (ml/m2) for group‐I versus group‐II Boxers were 70±16(SD) versus 62±12 for the LVOT (P= .27) and 58±12 versus 48±9 for the right ventricle (P= .14).

Conclusions and clinical importance: These data suggest that a relatively smaller LVOT in Boxers predisposes them to increased ejection velocity and development of murmurs. The contribution of SV to the genesis of these often labile murmurs requires additional study.
Doppler Echocardiographic Prediction of Pulmonary Hypertension in West Highland White Terriers with Chronic Pulmonary Disease
Authors: Schober Karsten E. , Baade Hanno
Published: March 2010

Background: Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is commonly diagnosed by Doppler echocardiography (DE) of tricuspid regurgitation (TR). However, TR may be absent or difficult to measure.

Hypothesis: Doppler‐derived systolic time intervals of pulmonary artery (PA) flow may be used to predict PH in dogs.

Animals: Seventy‐three healthy dogs and 45 West Highland white terriers (WHWT) with interstitial pulmonary disease (IPD).

Methods: Echocardiographic studies, including determination of right ventricular acceleration time (AT), ejection time (ET), and AT:ET ratio; right ventricular shortening fraction (RV‐SF); and TR velocity, were performed. Pulmonary hypertension was defined by TR > 3.1 m/s.

Results: In healthy WHWT, AT (median, range) was 73 ms (53 to 104) and AT:ET was 0.40 (0.28 to 0.55). AT:ET was minimally affected by age (R2= 0.04, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.01–0.07, P < .001) but not by heart rate, body weight, or RV‐SF. In all WHWT with TR, AT and AT: ET were inversely related to calculated systolic PA pressure (R2= 0.52, 95% CI 0.42–0.62, P < .001 andR2= 0.36, 95% CI 0.29–0.42, P = .001). Clinical cutoffs to predict systolic PH were defined for AT (58 ms; sensitivity [Se] 88% and specificity [Sp] 80%) and AT:ET (0.31; Se 73% and Sp 87%).

Conclusion and Clinical Importance: PH is common in WHWT with IPD. Analysis of right ventricular AT and AT: ET may be predictive of PH and should be particularly useful if TR is absent.
Daily Controlled Physiotherapy Increases Survival Time in Dogs with Suspected Degenerative Myelopathy
Authors: Kathmann I. , Cizinauskas S. , Doherr M.G. , Steffen F. , Jaggy A.
Published: March 2010

The purposes of the study reported here were to evaluate the signalment and clinical presentation in 50 dogs with degenerative myelopathy, to evaluate whether mean survival time was significantly affected by various means of physiotherapy performed in 22 dogs, and to determine whether neurologic status, anatomic localization, or age at onset had an influence on survival time in dogs that received physiotherapy. We found a significant (P< .05) breed predisposition for the German Shepherd Dog, Kuvasz, Hovawart, and Bernese Mountain Dog. Mean age at diagnosis was 9.1 years, and both sexes were affected equally. The anatomic localization of the lesion was spinal cord segment T3‐L3 in 56% (n = 28) and L3‐S3 in 44% (n = 22) of the dogs. Animals that received intensive (n = 9) physiotherapy had longer (P< .05) survival time (mean 255 days), compared with that for animals with moderate (n = 6; mean 130 days) or no (n = 7; mean 55 days) physiotherapy. In addition, our results indicate that affected dogs which received physiotherapy remained ambulatory longer than did animals that did not receive physical treatment.
Recurrence Rate, Clinical Outcome, and Cellular Proliferation: Indices as Prognostic Indicators after Incomplete Surgical Excision of Cutaneous Grade II Mast Cell Tumors: 28 Dogs (1994–2002)
Authors: Séguin Bernard , Besancon M. Faulkner , McCallan Jennifer L. , Dewe Loralei L. , Tenwolde Matthew C. , Wong Emily K. , Kent Michael S.
Published: March 2010

The objectives of this study were to determine local recurrence rate, clinical outcome, and prognostic value of the number of argyrophylic nucleolar organizer regions (AgNORs), presence of proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), and number of Ki‐67‐positive nuclei after incomplete surgical excision of canine cutaneous grade II mast cell tumors (MCTs). This retrospective study included 30 MCTs in 28 dogs. Medical records were examined and follow‐up information was obtained from owners and referring veterinarians. Only cases in which excision was incomplete and no anvcillary therapy (other than prednisone) for MCT was given were included. Paraffin‐embedded tumor tissues were retrieved for AgNORs, PCNA, and Ki‐67 staining. Median follow‐up time was 811.5 days. Seven (23.3%) tumors recurred locally. Median time to local recurrence was not reached with a mean of 1,713 days. The estimated proportions of tumors that recurred locally at 1,2, and 5 years were 17.3, 22.1, and 33.3%, respectively. Eleven (39.3%) dogs developed MCTs at other cutaneous locations. Median progression‐free survival was 1,044 days. Median overall survival was 1,426 days. The combination of Ki‐67 and PCNA scores was prognostic for local recurrence (P= .03) and development of local recurrence was prognostic for decreased overall survival (P= .04). Results suggest that a minority of incompletely excised MCTs recur. Therefore, ancillary local therapies may not always be necessary. However, local recurrence can negatively affect survival of the affected dogs. Cellular proliferation indices may indicate the likelihood of MCT recurrence after incomplete excision.
Treatment of Dogs with Lymphoma Using a 12‐Week, Maintenance‐Free Combination Chemotherapy Protocol
Authors: Simon D. , Nolte I. , Eberle N. , Abbrederis N. , Killich M. , Hirschberger J.
Published: March 2010

Background: Treatment of lymphoma in dogs by long‐term chemotherapy has favorable results. However, the efficacy of short‐term, maintenance‐free treatment protocols on remission and survival times in dogs has not been determined.

Hypothesis: That treatment using a 12‐week chemotherapy protocol would be associated with satisfactory treatment outcome in dogs with lymphoma.

Animals: 77 dogs with histologically or cytologically confirmed diagnosis of lymphoma.

Methods: Prospective clinical trial in which dogs were treated with a 12‐week chemotherapy protocol consisting of L‐asparaginase, vincristine, cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, and prednisolone.

Results: Complete remission rate was 76.3%. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that clinical substage (P= .006) and immunophenotype (P= .003) had a significant influence on the likelihood of a dog achieving complete remission. Median duration of first complete remission was 243 days (range 19–1, 191 days). The 6‐month, 1‐year, and 2‐year remission rates were 68%, 28%, and 16%, respectively. In the multivariate analysis of patient variables, immunophenotype (P= .022) revealed a significant influence on first remission duration. Toxicosis was mild with the exception of 1 treatment‐associated death.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance: In this group of dogs the 12‐week maintenance‐free chemotherapy protocol was well tolerated and had satisfactory results.
A Retrospective Study of the Incidence and the Classification of Bone Marrow Disorders in the Dog at a Veterinary Teaching Hospital (1996–2004)
Authors: Weiss Douglas J.
Published: March 2010

Background: An 8‐year retrospective study was conducted to evaluate the prevalence and the classification of canine bone marrow disorders in a clinical pathology service at a university referral hospital.

Animals: Dogs evaluated for bone marrow disorders at a veterinary teaching hospital.

Hypothesis: A better understanding of the spectrum and the prevalence of canine bone marrow disorders can be achieved with a multiyear retrospective study.

Methods: Bone marrow aspirate smears, core biopsy specimens, and case records from 717 dogs were reviewed.

Results: Bone marrow specimens were first categorized based on the presence or the absence of a primary bone marrow disorder. Nondysplastic and nonmalignant pathologic changes were placed into 14 subcategories. Frequently observed pathologic disorders included nonregenerative immune‐mediated anemia, pure red cell aplasia, bone marrow necrosis, myelofibrosis, and hemophagocytic syndrome. Dysmyelopoiesis (n = 61) was subcategorized into myelodysplastic syndromes (n = 27), and congenital (n = 1) and secondary (n = 33) dysmyelopoiesis. One hundred twenty‐six cases of neoplasia were divided into acute leukemia (n = 46), chronic leukemia (n = 7), stage 5 malignant lymphoma (n = 28), multiple myeloma (n = 25), malignant histiocytosis (n = 11), metastatic mast‐cell tumor (n = 3), sarcoma (n = 5), and carcinoma (n = 1).

Conclusions and Clinical Importance: This study provides a general indication of the spectrum and the prevalence of canine bone marrow disorders at a referral center in North America.
Comparative Aspects and Clinical Outcomes of Canine Renal Hemangiosarcoma
Authors: Locke Jennifer E. , Barber Lisa G.
Published: March 2010

Background: Hemangiosarcoma (HSA) is a common solid tumor of the spleen, heart, and skin of dogs. Renal HSA represents an uncommon anatomic variant, with little reported about its biologic behavior and clinical outcome.

Hypothesis: That renal HSA is associated with longer survival than other visceral forms of HSA.

Animals: 14 dogs with renal HSA.

Methods: Medical records from 1999 to 2004 were searched for dogs with histopathologically confirmed renal HSA, and data relevant to clinical signs, treatments, and outcomes were abstracted.

Results: Clinical signs were nonspecific, and the median duration of clinical signs before diagnosis was 60 days. Two dogs presented in cardiovascular collapse secondary to hemoperitoneum. Common hematologic and biochemical abnormalities were anemia (9/14), hematuria (7/14), and proteinuria (7/14). One dog had pulmonary metastasis at diagnosis. All dogs had evidence of a renal mass visualized by abdominal radiography (14/14), ultrasound (9/14), or both. All dogs underwent nephrectomy, and 4/14 dogs also received adjunctive chemotherapy. Median survival time of all dogs was 278 days (range 0–1,005 days), and dogs with hemoperitoneum had significantly shorter survival times than dogs without hemoperitoneum (62 days versus 286 days,P< .001).

Conclusions and Clinical Importance: These results indicate that hemoperitoneum and distant metastasis at diagnosis appear to occur less frequently in dogs with renal HSA compared with other visceral forms of HSA. Furthermore, dogs with renal HSA have protracted disease progression, with improved 1 ‐year survival rates and longer median survival time compared to dogs with splenic, cardiac, and retroperitoneal HSA.
Percutaneous Lung Biopsy in the Horse: Comparison of Two Instruments and Repeated Biopsy in Horses with Induced Acute Interstitial Pneumopathy
Authors: Venner M. , Schmidbauer S. , Drommer W. , Deegen E.
Published: March 2010

The aim of the study reported here was to compare complications of lung biopsy in horses and the quality of the lung specimens after biopsy using the manual Tru‐Cut biopsy needle (TC) and an automated biopsy needle (ABN). For experiment 1, lung biopsy was performed in 50 horses with one instrument on one side of the thorax, and then with the other instrument on the other side. Postmortem examination was performed in 20 of the 50 horses. Coughing was detected in 10 of 50 horses and epistaxis was observed in 6 of the 50 horses. Endoscopy revealed bleeding into the airways in 16 of 49 horses and in 5 of 49 horses after biopsy with the TC or the ABN, respectively. Use of the ABN induced a significantly smaller amount of bleeding. Pneumothorax was detected by radiography in 1 of 50 horses. Hematoma diameter determined in 7 of 20 horses at postmortem examination, was significantly larger after biopsy with the TC than with the ABN. The quality of the lung specimen was good. In experiment 2, complications after repeated and multiple lung biopsies in 6 horses were evaluated. Moderate epistaxis was observed on 13 of 104 occasions. Bleeding into the airways was detected at endoscopy on 41 of 104 occasions, and pneumothorax was detected during 4 of 104 occasions. Complications such as hematoma at the biopsy site and bleeding into the airways were greater after biopsy with the TC than after use of the ABN. Lung biopsy specimens obtained with the ABN were fairly safe for the animal.
Preoperative Administration of Hydroxyethyl Starch or Hypertonic Saline to Horses with Colic
Authors: Hallowell Gayle D. , Corley Kevin T.T.
Published: March 2010

Background: Hypertonic saline and hydroxyethyl starches have been proposed as alternatives to isotonic crystalloids for reversal of hypovolemia in horses with colic. However, no direct comparison of these fluids has been performed in a clinical setting.

Hypothesis: Preoperative administration of hypertonic saline or pentastarch would produce similar effects on intra operative hemodynamics in horses with colic.

Animals: Thirty horses requiring colic surgery were enrolled in this prospective, randomized, open‐label clinical trial. Inclusion criteria were owner consent, and at least 2 of 3 clinicopathologic abnormalities: packed cell volume >45%, plasma total solid concentration >8.0 g/dL, and blood lactate concentration >2.5 mM.

Methods: Study horses were randomly assigned to receive 4 mL/kg hypertonic saline or pentastarch before induction of anesthesia. Hemodynamic measurements were recorded every 30 minutes during anesthesia. Cardiac output (CO) was measured by the lithium dilution method. CO and stroke volume (SV) were indexed by body weight. Data were analysed using repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA). Post hoc comparisons were performed using the Bonferroni test.

Results: Cardiac index (CI) was higher in the pentastarch group compared with the hypertonic saline group from 30 to 150 minutes after induction (P= .04). SV index was higher in the pentastarch group at 30 (P= .025) and 60 minutes (P= .04). Mean arterial pressure of horses in both groups was lower at 90 minutes compared with 30 and 60 minutes.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance: Preoperative administration of pentastarch results in better CI than hypertonic saline, for 150 minutes after anesthetic induction. The effect of this improved global blood flow on regional perfusion or clinical outcome remains to be elucidated.
Evaluation of the Combined Dexamethasone Suppression/Thyrotropin‐Releasing Hormone Stimulation Test for Detection of Pars Intermedia Pituitary Adenomas in Horses
Authors: Frank Nicholas , Andrews Frank M. , Sommardahl Carla S. , Eiler Hugo , Rohrbach Barton W. , Donnell Robert L.
Published: March 2010

Background: A combined dexamethasone (DEX) suppression/thyrotropin‐releasing hormone (TRH) test (DEX/TRH test) has been developed to evaluate horses for presence of a pars intermedia pituitary adenoma (PIPA), but to the authors' knowledge, the accuracy of this test has not been previously determined.

Hypothesis: The sensitivity and specificity of the DEX/TRH test can be determined by comparing test results with histopathologic examination findings.

Animals: Age of 42 horses of various breeds ranged from 2 to 33 years.

Methods: Plasma cortisol concentration was measured before and 24 hours after IV administration of 40 μg of DEX/kg of body weight, and before and 30 minutes after IV administration of 1 mg of TRH that had been given 3 hours after the injection of DEX. Results of the DEX/TRH test were considered positive if either the plasma cortisol concentration exceeded 10 ng/mL 24 hours after DEX administration, or if the change in plasma cortisol concentration 30 minutes after injection of TRH was ≥66% above the 3‐hour baseline. Diagnosis of PIPA was determined by histologic examination of the pituitary gland.

Results: PIPA was detected in 17 of 42 (40%) horses. The DEX/TRH test had sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative (NPV) predictive value of 88, 76, 71, and 90%, respectively.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance: The combined DEX/TRH test was more sensitive than either of its component tests and had a high NPV, but was not as specific as the TRH component alone (92%). The DEX/TRH test should be used to screen older horses for PIPA.
Diagnostic Value of Fasting Plasma Ammonia and Bile Acid Concentrations in the Identification of Portosystemic Shunting in Dogs
Authors: Gerritzen‐Bruning M.J. , van den Ingh T.S.G.A.M. , Rothuizen J.
Published: March 2010

Portosystemic shunting occurs frequently either as congenital anomalies of the portal vein (PVA) or as acquired shunting (AS) due to portal hypertension secondary to parenchymal liver disease or portal vein thrombosis. The 2 most commonly used screening tests for portosystemic shunting are bile acid and plasma ammonia concentrations. The purpose of this study was to compare the 12‐hour fasting plasma ammonia (AMM) and bile acid concentration (BA) as tests for diagnosing portosystemic shunting. Medical records of 337 dogs were used in which AMM and BA were measured simultaneously and in which portosystemic shunting was confirmed or excluded. These dogs were divided into 2 groups (group 1: portosystemic shunting present, n = 153, and group 2: portosystemic shunting absent, n = 184). Group 1 was subdivided into 2 subgroups (group 1a: PVA, n = 132 and group 1b: AS, n = 21). The sensitivity of AMM in detecting PVA was 100% and of BA was 92.2%. For portosystemic shunting in general (PVA or AS), the sensitivity of AMM was 98% and that of BA was 88.9%. The specificity in the total population of AMM was 89.1% and that of BA was 67.9%. If only dogs with liver diseases were included with (n = 153) or without (n = 28) shunting, the specificity of AMM to detect shunting was 89.3% and that of BA was 17.9%. In conclusion, AMM is a highly sensitive and specific parameter to detect PVA and portosystemic shunting in a general population and in dogs with liver disease, whereas BA is somewhat less sensitive and considerably less specific.
Heat Stroke in Dogs: A Retrospective Study of 54 Cases (1999–2004) and Analysis of Risk Factors for Death
Authors: Bruchim Yaron , Klement Eyal , Saragusty Joseph , Finkeilstein Efrat , Kass Philip , Aroch Itamar
Published: March 2010

The medical records of 54 dogs presented to the Hebrew University Veterinary Teaching Hospital and diagnosed with heat stroke were retrospectively reviewed. Data abstracted included history, clinical and clinicopathological signs at admission, treatment, disease progression, and outcome. Exertional and environmental heat stroke were present in 63% (34 of 54) and 37% (20 of 54) of the dogs, respectively, and 78% (42 of 54) were examined between June and August. The mean temperature and heat discomfort index in the particular days of heat stroke were significantly increased (P<.001,P< .001, respectively) compared with their corresponding average daily values. In 27 dogs the body temperature was ≥41°C (105.8°F). Belgian Malinois (15%, odds ratio [OR] = 24, 95% confidence interval [CI95%] 8.2–64.5), Golden and Labrador Retrievers (21%, OR = 2.08, CI95%0.95‐4.2), and brachycephalic breeds (25%, OR = 1.7, CI95%0.81‐3.21) were overrepresented, whereas small breeds (<8 kg) were underrepresented (2%, OR = 0.08, CI95%0.002‐0.48). Thrombocytopenia (45 of 54 dogs) and prolongation of the prothrombin (PT) and activated thromboplastin (aPTT) times (27 of 47 dogs) were recorded during hospitalization. Disseminated intravascular coagulation (P= .013) and acute renal failure (P= .008), diagnosed in 28 of 54 and 18 of 54 of the cases, respectively, were risk factors for death. The overall mortality rate was 50%. Hypoglycemia (<47 mg/dL,P= .003), prolonged PT (>18 seconds,P= .05), and aPTT (>30 sec, P < .001) at admission were associated with death. Serum creatinine > 1.5 mg/dL (P= .003) after 24 hours, delayed admission (>90 minutes,P= .032), seizures (P= .02), and obesity (P= .04) were also risk factors for death. Heat stroke in dogs results in serious complications and high fatality rate despite appropriate treatment.
Simplified Methods for Estimation of Plasma Clearance of Iohexol in Dogs and Cats
Authors: Goy‐Thollot Isabelle , Besse Stéphane , Garnier François , Marignan Magali , Barthez Paul Y.
Published: March 2010

The purpose of this study was to evaluate simplified methods for iohexol plasma clearance estimation in dogs and cats. Serial blood samples were taken before and 5, 20, 40, 60, 80, 100, 120, 150, 180, and 240 minutes after a bolus injection of iohexol in 51 dogs and 25 cats. Iohexol plasma concentration was determined with X‐ray fluorescence. Clearance was calculated by dividing the injected dose by the area under the plasma tracer elimination curve estimated with a 2‐compartment pharmacologic model. Clearance was normalized to body surface area (BSA). The 10‐point clearance was used as a reference for the evaluation of simplified methods. A 2‐sample method based on a single exponential fit and a single‐sample method based on a linear quadratic model were investigated. Simplified methods were evaluated by calculating the standard deviation of the difference (SDD) between the clearances obtained with the simplified methods and the 10‐point reference method. All combinations of sampling times were evaluated. The best sampling times were chosen for dogs and cats as the ones yielding the lowest SDD. Linear regression analysis was performed between the reference method and the optimized simplified methods. The best combination of time for the 2‐sample method was 5 and 120 minutes in dogs and 20 and 180 minutes in cats. The best time for sampling in the single‐sample method was 120 minutes in dogs and 80 minutes in cats. Plasma clearance of iohexol can be estimated in dogs and cats from 1 or 2 blood samples with a reasonable margin of error.