bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hemolytic Transfusion Reactions in a Dog With an Alloantibody to a Common Antigen
Authors: Callan Mary Beth , Jones Leonard T. , Giger Urs
Published: March 2010

Alloantibodies to high‐frequency red cell antigens, defined as inherited traits occurring in 92% to 99% or more of the general population, are recognized as a cause of hemolytic transfusion reactions in humans. Here we describe a dog (dog erythrocyte antigen [DEA] 1.2‐and DEA 4‐positive) sensitized by prior blood transfusion, for which a compatible blood donor could not be found; transfusion of DEA 1.1‐negative blood resulted in hemolytic transfusion reactions. Patient serum from days 1 (before first transfusion) and 16 was available for further testing; using 4 dogs with different blood types as potential donors, the major crossmatches were compatible using serum from day 1. However the crossmatches were all incompatible with serum from day 16, indicating that the patient was sensitized to an antigen after the first transfusion. The presence of an alloantibody against DEA 1.1 was not ruled out in this patient, but the incompatibility reactions of patient serum with red cells from donors negative for DEA 1.1 indicated that an alloantibody against a red cell antigen other than DEA 1.1 or any other known DEA for which typing reagents were available (DEA 3, 5, and 7) was present. Subsequently, red cells from 1 of the patient's siblings (DEA 1.2‐, 4‐, and 7‐positive) were found not to agglutinate when incubated with patient's serum from day 16, ruling out the presence of an anti‐DEA 7 antibody, and suggesting that an alloantibody against a common red cell antigen missing in the patient and sibling was responsible for the blood incompatibility reactions. Failure to obtain a compatible crossmatch with several universal donors in a dog previously transfused should raise a suspicion that an alloantibody to a common red cell antigen may exist and that a sibling may be a source of compatible blood.
Resolution of a Left Ureteral Stone Using Electrohydraulic Lithotripsy in a Thoroughbred Colt
Authors: Rodger Lynn D. , Carlson Gary P. , Moran Michael E. , Yarbrough Tom B. , Pascoe John R. , Reynolds Jay A.
Published: March 2010

A 3‐year‐old Thoroughbred colt was presented for evaluation of azotemia and anorexia. Physical examination revealed a ureterolith in the left ureter, approximately 10 cm from the bladder, which was thought to obstruct urine flow by approximately 90% when viewed cystoscopically. Ultrasonographic examination of both kidneys revealed indistinct corticomedullary junctions, and the right kidney was more hyperechoic. A percutaneous biopsy of the right kidney revealed chronic interstitial nephritis with marked interstitial medullary fibrosis. Medical therapy consisting of IV fluids, sodium chloride PO, and ammonium chloride PO was initiated. Ureteroscopic electrohydraulic lithotripsy via a perineal urethrostomy was used to successfully remove the stone.Klebsiella oxytoca, which responded to oral enrofloxacin therapy, was cultured from the urine after surgery. Azotemia resolved and the horse resumed training.
Platelet Function Defect in a 5‐Day‐Old Simmental Calf
Authors: Navarre Christine B. , Kasari Thomas R. , Green Robert A.
Published: March 2010

A 5‐day‐old Simmental Heifer was evaluated for excessive bleeding from the skin following horse fly bites. A coagulation profile and platelet numbers were normal. In vitro platelet function, measured by whole blood aggregometry, was found to be abnormal when compared with age‐matched controls. Therefore, this defect in hemostasis was attributed to a qualitative defect in platelet function.
Hemostatic Disorders in Cats: A Retrospective Study and Review of the Literature
Authors: Peterson Janet L. , Couto C. Guillermo , Wellman Maxey L.
Published: March 2010

Hemostasis profiles from 101 cats presented for medical or surgical evaluation to The Ohio State University Veterinary Teaching Hospital from 1986 through 1991 were reviewed retrospectively; 69% were abnormal. Commonly identified abnormalities included a mixed hemostatic defect compatible with disseminated intravascular coagulation, thrombocytopenia, isolated prolongation of the activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT), and prolongation of both the APTT and one‐stage prothrombin time. The most common disorders associated with abnormal hemostasis profiles in this study were liver disease, neoplasia, and feline infectious peritonitis.
Myeloid and Megakaryocytic Hypoplasia in Related Standardbreds
Authors: Kohn Catherine W. , Swardson Christine , Provost Patricia , Gilbert Robert O. , Couto C. Guillermo
Published: March 2010

Myeloid and megakaryocytic bone marrow hypoplasia in association with moderate to profound neutropenia was observed in 8 young Standardbred horses sired by the same stallion; 7 horses were intermittently thrombocytopenic. Evaluation of serial neutrophil counts in 2 horses suggested that a cyclic variation in neutrophil numbers was present, that lymphocyte numbers increased when neutrophil counts decreased, and that platelet counts decreased when neutrophil counts decreased. Preliminary bone marrow cultures indicated that myeloid progenitor cells were present and that these cells were able to respond to exogenous growth factors by differentiating. A bone marrow microenvironment or growth factor defect is suspected. Seven of 8 horses died or were euthanized. One horse with moderate neutropenia and a normal platelet count has been racing for 3 years. Necropsies in 4 horses did not reveal a cause for the myeloid hypoplasia. A familial basis for the disease is suspected.
An Echocardiographic Study of Atrial Fibrillation in Horses: Before and After Conversion to Sinus Rhythm
Authors: Marr Celia M. , Reef Virginia B. , Reimer Johanna M. , Sweeney Raymond W. , Reid Stuart W.J.
Published: March 2010

Two‐dimensional and M‐mode echocardiograms were recorded from 41 horses before they were successfully treated for atrial fibrillation. In addition, these examinations were performed in a subgroup of 20 horses after treatment, and the results were compared with pretreatment values. Atrial fibrillation in this group of horses was associated with a reduction of mean left ventricular fractional shortening (mean 31 %± 5.24%), and 22 of the 41 horses were below the reference range. The remaining mean M‐mode variables were within the normal reference range, although 12 horses had increased left ventricular lumen dimensions in systole, and 8 horses had decreased left ventricular ejection times. Abnormal motion of the mitral valve was present in all horses and was characterized by the absence of A peaks, which were replaced by small diastolic undulations in 55% of the horses. In horses 1 to 20, after conversion to sinus rhythm, the mean fractional shortening increased (35.34%± 5.4%,P= .004), but there were no significant differences in heart rate or left ventricular lumen diameters in systole or diastole. These results suggest that ventricular function may be compromised by the presence of atrial fibrillation. However, this improved after correction of the arrhythmia.
A Portable Blood Gas Analyzer for Equine Venous Blood
Authors: Mitten Laurie A. , Hinchcliff Kenneth W. , Sams Richard
Published: March 2010

Evaluation of a portable blood gas analyzer, (StatPal II, Unifet, Inc, La Jolla, CA) was performed using tonometered solutions and equine blood. Samples were analyzed by the StatPal II and either an Instrument Laboratory IL1306 (Lexington, MA) or a Radiometer ABL50 blood gas analyzer (Radiometer America Inc., Westlake, OH). Comparison of the StatPal II and the IL1306 was done by analysis of 3 tonometered solutions (acidic, normal, and alkalotic) and 27 equine venous blood samples. Blood pH, Pco2, Po2, and [HCO3‐] values were altered by IV infusion of 5% sodium bicarbonate or exercising the horses on a treadmill. Comparison of the StatPal II and the Radiometer was performed by analysis of 78 blood samples collected from Standard‐bred horses before a race. Data were analyzed for the venous blood samples using a paired two‐tailed Student's t test and Bland‐Altman plots, with significance set at P < .05. The coefficients of variation for pH, Pco2, Po2, and [HCO3‐] values of the tonometered solutions analyzed by the StatPal II ranged from 0.067% to 0.087%, 2% to 3.21 %, 1.21 % to 2.67%, and 0.267% to 0.828%, respectively. Comparison of the equine blood samples analyzed by the StatPal II and the IL1306 demonstrated statistically significant, but clinically irrelevant differences in pH, Pco2, and Po2, but not [HCO3‐]. There were statistically significant, but clinically irrelevant differences between the StatPal II and the Radiometer for pH, Pco2, and [HCO3‐], but not for Po2‐It is concluded that the StatPal II provides reproducible and acceptable analysis of equine venous blood gas samples.
Monoclonal Gammopathy in a Dog With Chronic Pyoderma
Authors: Burkhard Mary Jo , Meyer Dennis J. , Rosychuk Rod A. , O'Neil Shawn P. , Schultheiss Patricia C.
Published: March 2010

A monoclonal gammopathy composed of immunoglobulin G, with concurrent light‐chain proteinuria and generalized lymph node plasmacytosis, was associated with chronic pyoderma in a dog. A uniform population of plasma cells was observed cytologically and histologically in multiple lymph node specimens. A diagnosis of monoclonal gammopathy of unknown significance was eventually made by exclusion of other known causes of monoclonal gammopathy, resolution after antibiotic therapy, and no evidence of lymphoproliferative disease after 11 months of follow‐up and subsequent necropsy. This report expands the diagnostic considerations for monoclonal gammopathies in the dog.
Fibrinolytic Activity in Plasma From Horses With Gastrointestinal Diseases: Changes Associated With Diagnosis, Surgery, and Outcome
Authors: Collatos Chrysann , Barton Michelle H. , Moore James N.
Published: March 2010

Plasma fibrinolytic activity was evaluated over 5 consecutive days in 59 horses admitted to the Large Animal Teaching Hospital with acute gastrointestinal diseases. Only horses hospitalized for at least 5 days were included in the study. Tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) and plasminogen activator inhibitor type‐1 (PAI‐1) were quantitated using standard chromogenic activity assays. Statistical analyses were performed using analysis of variance; differences were considered significant whenP< .05. Activity of PAI‐1, the primary endogenous inhibitor of fibrinolysis, was significantly increased on hospital days 2, 4, and 5 in horses that died, when compared with those that were discharged from the hospital. Plasma PAI‐1 activity was not different at admission, but was significantly increased on hospital days 2 and 3 in horses that underwent surgery, when compared with those that did not, suggesting an acute phase response to surgical intervention. Horses with strangulating intestinal lesions had significantly increased PAI‐1 activity on day 3, while PAI‐1 activity was significantly greater in horses with inflammatory conditions at the time of admission, when compared with horses with strangulating or nonstrangulating/noninflammatory lesions. Among all horses, PAI‐1 activity was significantly higher and tPA activity was significantly lower on day 2 when compared with other hospital days. These results suggest that fibrinolysis is inhibited early in the course of inflammatory gastrointestinal diseases and in response to surgery. In addition, among all horses, the prognosis for survival was poor for those with persistently increased PAI‐1 activity, reflecting treatment failure and the loss of hemostatic regulation.
Heinz Body Formation Associated With Ketoacidosis in Diabetic Cats
Authors: Christopher Mary M. , Broussard John D. , Peterson Mark E.
Published: March 2010

Oxidative damage plays an important role in the pathophysiology of diabetes and diabetic complications. Feline hemoglobin is uniquely susceptible to oxidative denaturation; therefore, Heinz body formation is a highly sensitive indicator of in vivo oxidative stress in this species. Heinz bodies also contribute to anemia. We investigated hematological and clinical biochemical changes in 30 cats with spontaneous diabetes mellitus (as compared to 15 healthy control cats) and evaluated the relationship of these changes to erythrocyte oxidative damage. Cats were categorized as ketoacidotic or nonketoacidotic based on their clinical presentation and the presence of urine ketones. Ketoacidotic cats had significantly (P= .0009) more Heinz bodies (28.3%± 9.1 %) than nonketotic diabetic cats (6.5%± 1.60%) and healthy control cats (0.6%± 0.2%). Percent Heinz bodies in diabetic cats directly correlated with plasma β‐hydroxy‐butyrate concentration (r= .622;P= .0002), as well as with serum chloride concentration (r= ‐0.576;P= 0.0009) and the number of monocytes (r= .536;P= .0023). Percent Heinz bodies were negatively correlated with erythrocyte glutathione concentrations. Erythrocyte membrane lipid peroxidation was slightly but not significantly increased in diabetic cats. There were no significant associations between percent Heinz bodies and degree of anemia, hyperglycemia, or glycohemoglobin. These data indicate that ketones are associated with oxidative hemoglobin damage in cats, and suggest that ketone metabolism, ie by cytochrome P450 2E1, may be a potential source of in vivo oxygen radical generation in animals with ketosis.
Nonsecretory Multiple Myeloma in a Dog: Immunohistologic and Ultrastructural Observations
Authors: Marks Stanley L. , Moore Peter F. , Taylor Debra W. , Munn Robert J.
Published: March 2010

A 12‐year‐old, female spayed Chihuahua was diagnosed with nonsecretory multiple myeloma on the basis of multiple osteolytic lesions, histological evidence of plasma cell infiltrate on a bone biopsy, and absence of a monoclonal protein on serum and urine electrophoresis. A 6‐week course of prednisone therapy resulted in no clinical improvement and the dog was euthanized 2 weeks after presentation because of progressive neurological impairment. Bone marrow specimens were processed and stained for ultrastructural and immunohistologic evaluation. Staining with antisera to immunoglobulin (Ig) G, IgM, and IgA was negative. Tumor cells in both the pelvic and rib masses displayed prominent reactivity with an antibody specific for a canine β1 integrin similar to VLA‐4; however, the tumor cells failed to stain with antibodies known to react predominantly with antigens on B‐lymphocytes (major histocompatibility complex class II, CD45RA, and CD21) or T‐lymphocytes (Thy‐1). The tumor cells also failed to stain with an antibody specific for the β‐subunit (CD18) of the leukocyte integrins (CD11/CD18). Ultrastructural studies performed on bone marrow specimens revealed a pleomorphic population of plasma cells with moderate amounts of rough endoplasmic reticulum, erythrophagocytosis, and lack of crystalline inclusions.
The Use of Diazepam Per Rectum at Home for the Acute Management of Cluster Seizures in Dogs
Authors: Podell Michael
Published: March 2010

The use of diazepam per rectum (RDZ) in the home to control generalized cluster seizures in 11 dogs diagnosed with idiopathic epilepsy was evaluated over a 16‐month period. All dogs had a prior history of clusters of generalized seizures and were treated with multiple antiepileptic drugs. Owners were instructed to administer diazepam injectable solution (5 mg/mL) per rectum to their dogs at a dose of 0.5 mg/kg when an initial generalized seizure occurred and when a second or third generalized seizure occurred within 24 hours of the first seizure. Seizure activity was recorded by owners in a daily log before the onset of RDZ use and for the duration of RDZ use, which ranged from 57 to 464 days (median = 157 days). The median age at which the first seizure occurred and the median age at the time of enrollment in the study were 19 and 42 months, respectively. All 11 dogs were treated with phenobarbital, with 10 dogs receiving concomitant bromide therapy. No significant correlation between the duration of the first, second, or third antiepileptic drug therapy and the change in the number of cluster seizure events before or after use of RDZ was found. Comparisons of seizure activity were done for the same time interval before and after the onset of RDZ availability. A significant decrease in the total number of seizure events and the total number of cluster seizures events was found after RDZ availability. Similarly, a significant difference in the average number of seizures per cluster seizure event and the total number of isolated seizure events occurred before and after RDZ therapy. Eight of the 11 dogs (73%) that received RDZ for 1 or more times after the first or second seizure had a 100% success rate in prevention of further seizure activity after the first dose. In 3 dogs, success and compliance rates were both equal at 100%, thus suggesting 100% efficacy of RDZ in blocking further seizure activity over the next 24 hours in these dogs. Owners had a large cost‐savings because of the decrease in emergency clinic visits after initiating treatment with RDZ. Before RDZ use, the average number of emergency clinic visits was 3, with an average cost of $308 per dog. After RDZ use, the average number of emergency clinic visits was 1, with an average cost of $81 per dog. The results of this study suggest that RDZ may be an effective method of home treatment of generalized cluster seizures in dogs with idiopathic epilepsy, regardless of prior antiepileptic drug history.
Coccidioidomycosis in 48 Cats: A Retrospective Study (1984–1993)
Authors: Greene Russell T. , Troy Gregory C.
Published: March 2010

Coccidioidomycosis was diagnosed in 48 cats. Forty‐one cases were identified within a period of 3 years.Coccidioides immitiswas revealed by cytological or histopathological examinations, or culture in 70% of cats. The remaining 30% of cases were diagnosed by appropriate clinical signs, radiographic lesions, and serological test results. The average age of affected cats was 6.2 years with a median age of 5.0 years. Fifty‐four percent (n = 26) were female and 46% (n = 22) were male. Domestic shorthaired and longhaired breeds comprised 89% (n = 41) of affected cats. Sixty‐seven percent of cases were diagnosed during the 6‐month period of December through May. Cats infected withC immitiswere presented for evaluation of dermatologic (56%), respiratory (25%), musculoskeletal (19%), and neurological or ophthalmologic signs (19%). Fever, inappetence, and weight loss were present in 44% of the cats. Duration of clinical signs before diagnosis was less than 4 weeks in 85% (n = 42) of cats, with an average of 3.8 weeks and a median of 2 weeks. Agar gel immunodiffusion tests were positive in all 39 cats tested at sometime during the course of their disease. Hyperproteinemia (greater than 7.9 g/dL) was present in 52% (10/23) of cases. The majority of cats (n = 39) were negative for feline leukemia virus. Antibodies to feline immunodeficiency virus were absent in the 19 cats tested. Ketoconazole was the most common antifungal agent used to treat cats with Coccidioidomycosis. Duration of treatment ranged from less than 1 week to 43 months. Thirty‐two cats are currently asymptomatic, with or without treatment. Eleven cats died or were euthanized. Five cats were lost to follow‐up. Ketoconazole likely is more suppressive than curative because relapses were common after discontinuing therapy.
Leucoencephalomalacia and Cerebral White Matter Vacuolar Degeneration in Two Related Labrador Retriever Puppies
Authors: Neer T. Mark , Kornegay Joe N.
Published: March 2010

Two Labrador Retriever dogs from a common dam had similar neurological deficits consisting of cortical blindness, dullness, and loss of previously learned habits. Both were examined at 5 months of age, and histopathological examination revealed leucoencephalomalacia and vacuolar degeneration of the cerebral white matter. Histopathologic findings in these 2 dogs differed from those reported previously in Labrador Retrievers with spongy degeneration of central nervous system white matter. A nonlittermate full sibling to 1 of these dogs was examined at 1.5 years of age for similar clinical signs that did not progress for the next 25 months.
Prospective Hematologic and Clinicopathologic Study of Asymptomatic Cats With Naturally Acquired Feline Immunodeficiency Virus Infection
Authors: Shelton Grady H. , Linenberger Michael L. , Persik Monica T. , Abkowitz Janis L.
Published: March 2010

Prospective studies were performed over a 28‐ to 77‐month period (median, 66 months) on 5 cats with naturally acquired feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) infection in an attempt to correlate hematologic and Clinicopathologic changes with the emergence of clinical disease. On presentation, all cats were asymptomatic; free of opportunistic infections; and had normal complete blood counts, bone marrow morphologies, marrow progenitor frequencies, and progenitor in vitro growth characteristics. During study, 2 cats remained healthy, 2 cats showed mild clinical signs, and 1 cat developed a malignant neoplasm (ie, bronchiolar‐alveolar adenocarcinoma). Although persistent hematologic abnormalities were not observed, intermittent peripheral leukopenias were common. In 3 of 5 FlV‐seropositive cats, lymphopenia (< 1,500 lymphs/μL; normal reference range, 1,500 to 7,000 lymphs/μL) was a frequent finding and the absolute lymphocyte counts had a tendency to progressively decline. One of the other 2 cats had consistently low to low‐normal absolute neutrophil counts (1,300 to 4,800 segs/μL; mean, 2,730 segs/μL; normal reference range, 2,500 to 12,500 segs/μL), and the remaining cat had consistently normal leukograms, except for a transient period (ie, 11 months) of benign lymphocytosis (7,200 to 13,430 lymphs/μL) early in the study. Periodic examinations of bone marrow aspirates revealed normal to slightly depressed myeloid‐to‐erythroid ratios with normal cellular morphology and maturation. Bone marrow abnormalities observed late in the study included mild dysmor‐phic changes (ie, megaloblastic features) in 2 cats, and a significant decrease (60% of controls,P< .001) in the frequencies of burst‐forming units erythroid (BFU‐E) in marrow cultures of FIV‐seropositive cats compared with uninfected control cats. Serum biochemical profiles were unremarkable throughout the study, with the exception of hyperglobulinemia (ie, polyclonal gammopathy) in 2 of 5 cats. Peripheral blood and bone marrow findings were of no apparent prognostic value. These results confirm the long latency between natural FIV infection and the development of life‐threatening clinical disease. Chronic FIV infection, like infection with human immunodeficiency virus, can be associated with derangements in peripheral blood cell counts, as well as pertubations in marrow cell morphologies and hematopoietic progenitor frequencies before the terminal symptomatic stages of retroviral disease, when persistent cytopenias are prominent.
Serum Protein Concentrations in Horses With Severe Liver Disease: A Retrospective Study and Review of the Literature
Authors: Parraga María E. , Carlson Gary P. , Thurmond Mark
Published: March 2010

The present retrospective study was undertaken to determine the frequency of hypoproteinemia and hypoalbuminemia in horses with natural occurring severe liver disease. The study represents a review of case records and laboratory data of 84 horses presented with acute or chronic liver disease to the University of California Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital between 1973 and 1991. Forty horses (48%) had serum protein concentrations above the maximum reference value (7.7 g/dL). The increase in serum protein concentration was associated with hyperglobulinemia (P= .00005,R2= .80). Only 13% (11/84) of the horses had serum albumin concentrations below the minimum reference range (2.5 g/dL), and hypoproteinemia was found in only 1 of these horses. Of these, 18% (9/51) of the horses with chronic liver disease and 6% (2/33) of the horses with acute liver disease had albumin concentrations below the minimum reference value. Globulin concentrations in 64% of the horses (54/84) were above the maximum reference value (4.0 g/dL). The present study indicates that hypoproteinemia and hypoalbuminemia are not common features in horses with severe liver disease.
Cytological Analysis of Bronchoalveolar Lavage Fluid in the Diagnosis of Spontaneous Respiratory Tract Disease in Dogs: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Hawkins Eleanor C. , DeNicola Dennis B. , Plier Michelle L.
Published: March 2010

Results of cytological analysis of bronchoalveolar lavage (BAD fluid were compared with clinical diagnoses in dogs that presented with signs of respiratory disease to referral hospitals. Of 68 dogs in which a clinical diagnosis was possible, BAL cytological findings were considered definitive for the diagnosis in 17 cases (25%), supportive of the diagnosis in 34 cases (50%), and not helpful in 17 cases (25%). Findings were most often considered supportive of or definitive for the clinical diagnosis in dogs with alveolar or bronchial radiographic patterns, or the presence of pulmonary masses. BAL results among lung lobes differed in 23 of 63 dogs (37%) with diffuse radiographic patterns. Tracheal wash cytology differed from BAL fluid cytology in 45 of 66 dogs (68%). Bronchoalveolar lavage was a clinically useful procedure for the diagnostic evaluation of dogs with signs of respiratory disease.
Duplex Doppler Estimation of Pourcelot Resistive Index in Arcuate Arteries of Sedated Normal Cats
Authors: Rivers Bill J. , Walter Patricia A. , O'Brien Timothy D. , Polzin David J.
Published: March 2010

Renal failure is an important cause of morbidity and mortality in feline patients. In human patients, intrarenal blood flow values obtained with duplex Doppler ultrasonography have been used to aid in the diagnosis and prognosis of renal failure. The purpose of this report is to present values for resistance to intrarenal blood flow in normal cats, derived by duplex Doppler ultrasonography. Ten mature clinically healthy conditioned domestic shorthaired cats were screened for normal renal anatomy and function by CBC, serum biochemical profile, urinalysis, urine protein/creatinine ratio, endogenous creatinine clearance, and renal B‐mode ultrasonography; and for normal systemic blood pressure with Doppler pressure cuff measurement. Subsequently, the cats were sedated with ketamine hydrochloride, and values for mean intrarenal (arcuate artery) resistance to blood flow were determined by duplex Doppler ultrasonography, and expressed as the Pourcelot resistive index, a ratio of systolic to diastolic flow commonly used in duplex Doppler sonography in human patients. After duplex Doppler sonographic examination, histological normalcy of the kidneys was verified by evaluation of ultrasound‐guided percutaneous renal biopsy. Based on the obtained resistive indices, 95% confidence intervals for normal values were calculated as follows: left kidney, 0.52 to 0.60; right kidney, 0.55 to 0.63. No statistically significant difference was noted between the values obtained for the right versus the left kidney.J Vet Intern Med 1996;10:28–33. Copyright © 1996 by the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine.
Canine Idiopathic Thrombocytopenic Purpura
Authors: Lewis David C. , Meyers Kenneth M.
Published: March 2010

Canine idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) is a disease in which antibodies bound to the surface of platelets mediate premature platelet destruction by macrophages. ITP in dogs and chronic ITP in humans are analogous diseases. This article draws on information from the literature on ITP in dogs and in humans, and reviews the pathogenesis, diagnosis, and treatment of ITP in dogs.J Vet Intern Med 1996;207–218. Copyright ©1996by the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine.
Clinical and Immunohistochemical Characterization of Thymic Lymphosarcoma in a Heifer
Authors: Alexander Andrew N. , Constable Peter D. , Meier William A. , French Richard A. , Morin Dawn E. , Lowry Jennifer E. , Hoffman Walter E.
Published: March 2010

A 2–year‐old Holstein heifer with a swollen brisket, jugular vein distention, muffled heart sounds, tachycardia, and free gas bloat was examined. Thymic lymphosarcoma was suspected based on a negative agar gel immunodiffusion test for bovine leukemia virus, presence of atypical lymphocytes in pleural fluid, and detection of a mass in the thoracic inlet. Right‐sided cardiac catheterization was performed, and markedly increased jugular venous pressures (41 mm Hg) with a pressure gradient of 29 mm Hg immediately cranial to the heart indicated constriction of the cranial vena cava. Immunohistochemical staining of formalin fixed, paraffin‐embedded tissue sections of the tumor using a rabbit anti‐human T cell, CD3 polyclonal antibody confirmed that the neoplastic lymphocytes were of thymic origin.J Vet Intern Med 1996;275–278. Copyright © 1996 by the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine.
Hepatobiliary Scintigraphy in the Evaluation of Feline Liver Disease
Authors: Newell Susan M. , Selcer Barbara A. , Roberts Royce E. , Cornelius Larry M. , Mahaffey Edward A.
Published: March 2010

Hepatobiliary scintigraphy (HBS) was performed in 10 cats with histologically documented hepatobiliary disease. The scintigraphic patterns were classified into one of 5 categories: normal, primary hepatocellular dysfunction, primary in‐trahepatic cholestasis, mixed hepatocellular and intrahe‐patic cholestasis, and extrahepatic obstructive patterns. Initial attempts were made to correlate specific disease entities with HBS patterns, but a consistent relationship could not be determined. A correlation between the histological severity of a given hepatic disease and the HBS pattern was made. All cats (n = 5) with a mixed hepatocellular and intra‐hepatic cholestasis scintigraphic pattern with normal gallbladder function had a histologically severe form of their individual hepatic disease. Three of the 4 cats with an intra‐hepatic cholestasis pattern and normal hepatocellular and gallbladder function had histologically mild or moderate forms of their individual hepatic disease. One cat had an extrahepatic obstructive pattern where no radiopharmaceu‐tical was identified in the gallbladder or small intestine by 3 hours postinjection. This study suggests that HBS can be useful in cats with hepatobiliary disease to assess the severity of hepatic dysfunction, and to determine if extrahepatic biliary obstruction is present. Correlation between HBS patterns and specific disease entities such as hepatic lipidosis or cholangitis‐cholangiohepatitis syndrome could not be made in this study.
Pharmacokinetic and Pharmacodynamic Properties of Conventional and CD‐Formulated Diltiazem in Cats
Authors: Johnson Lynetta M. , Atkins Clarke E. , Keene Bruce W. , Bai Stephen A.
Published: March 2010

The IV and apparent steady‐state kinetics of diltiazem HCI (DLT) and slow‐absorption long‐acting diltiazem (CD) given PO were investigated in cats. The effects of PO diltiazem on heart rate and PR interval were also studied. Plasma diltiazem concentrations were determined by ultraviolet high‐performance liquid chromatography (UV‐HPLC), using vera‐pamil as the internal standard. Heart rate and PR interval determinations were evaluated over a 24–hour period for the PO formulations and compared with values under diltiazem‐free conditions. The mean systemic clearance and apparent volume of distribution of IV diltiazem were 15.0 mL/min/ kg and 2.70 L/kg, respectively. The elimination half‐life of diltiazem after IV and PO DLT administration were approximately 120 minutes. In contrast, the terminal half‐life of CD was 460 minutes. The mean apparent bioavailability of DLT PO was 71%, which was significantly higher than that observed with CD (36%). Heart rate and PR intervals in cats receiving the 2 formulations at steady‐state were not different from those measured in the drug‐free state. We conclude that DLT at 1 mg/kg PO tid and CD at 10 mg/kg PO sid provide plasma concentrations that are known to have pharmacodynamic effects in other species.
Fibronectin Concentrations in Pleural and Abdominal Effusions in Dogs and Cats
Authors: Hirschberger Johannes , Pusch Sabine
Published: March 2010

A commercial nephelometric test kit for human fibronectin (FN) was found suitable for the estimation if fibronectin concentration in body effusions of cats and dogs. The FN measurements were set in relation to the FN concentration of plasma pools in cats and dogs. A discrimination line of 31.5% completely separated malignant from cardiogenic pleural effusions in cats. For the diagnosis of a malignant pleural effusion, sensitivity was 100% and specificity was 57%. Pleuritis also resulted in high FN concentrations. The FN concentration in malignant pleural effusions in dogs differed significantly (P < .02) from that in cardiogenic effusions. There were no clinically useful differences in the FN concentration in peritoneal effusions in cats and dogs. The FN/albumin ratio was significantly higher (P < .02) in dogs with neoplastic abdominal effusion than in those with congestive heart failure.
A Comparison of Doxorubicin and COP for Maintenance of Remission in Cats With Lymphoma
Authors: Moore Antony S. , Cotter Susan M. , Frimberger Angela E. , Wood Carrie A. , Rand William M. , L'Heureux Deborah A.
Published: March 2010

Thirty‐eight cats with lymphoma were treated with vincristine, cyclophosphamide, and prednisone (COP). They were randomized at entry to receive maintenance chemotherapy consisting of either single‐agent doxorubicin or continued COP therapy, starting on week 4 of treatment and continuing for 6 months or until relapse. Eighteen cats achieved complete clinical remission after COP induction chemotherapy. The median remission duration for 11 cats continuing to receive COP was 83 days, which was significantly shorter than for 7 cats that received doxorubicin (281 days). Thus, doxorubicin should be considered a well‐tolerated and efficacious agent for the maintenance of remission in cats with lymphoma.
Hemodynamic Effects of Calcium Gluconate Administered to Conscious Horses
Authors: Grubb Tamara L. , Foreman J.H. , Benson G. John , Thurmon John C. , Tranquilli William J. , Constable Peter D. , Olson William O. , Davis Lloyd E.
Published: March 2010

Calcium gluconate was administered to conscious horses at 3 different rates (0.1, 0.2, and 0.4 mg/kg/min for 15 minutes each). Serum calcium concentrations and parameters of cardiovascular function were evaluated. All 3 calcium administration rates caused marked increases in both ionized and total calcium concentrations, cardiac index, stroke index, and cardiac contractility (dP/dtmax). Mean arterial pressure and right atrial pressure were unchanged; heart rate de creased markedly during calcium administration. Ionized calcium concentration remained between 54% and 57% of total calcium concentration throughout the study. We conclude that calcium gluconate can safely be administered to conscious horses at 0.1 to 0.4 mg/kg/min and that administration will result in improved cardiac function.
Cryptococcal Infection in Cats: Factors Influencing Treatment Outcome, and Results of Sequential Serum Antigen Titers in 35 Cats
Authors: Jacobs Gilbert J. , Medleau Linda , Calvert Clay , Brown John
Published: March 2010

The relationship between treatment outcome and location of cryptococcal infection, gender, magnitude of pretreatment cryptococcal antigen titers, results of feline leukemia virus (FeLV) and feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) serology, and serial changes in antigen titers during and after treatment were evaluated in a prospective and nonrandomized study of 35 cats with cryptococcosis. A commercial cryptococcal latex agglutination kit (CALAS; Meridian Diagnostic Inc, Cincinnati, OH) was used to detect cryptococcal antigen in sera. All cats were treated with itraconazole (Sporanox; Janssen Pharmaceutica Inc, Titusville, NJ). Pre‐treatment mean log titers for serum cryptococcal antigen were not influenced by location of the infection. Treatment outcome was not influenced by gender, location of the infection, or magnitude of pretreatment serum antigen titer. Treatment outcome was influenced by FeLV and FIV status; cats seropositive for FeLV or FIV had a higher likelihood of treatment failure (P= .008). The cryptococcal antigen titers of cats successfully treated decreased with significant linearity over time during treatment (r = ‐.64,P< .000001), whereas the corresponding titers for cats not treated successfully did not decrease with significant linearity (r= ‐.03,P> .9). For cats in which treatment was successful, antigen titers decreased significantly from pretreatment values by 1.3 orders of magnitude at 2 months after initiation of treatment. By 10 months after initiating treatment, log titers decreased by at least 2 orders of magnitude in all cats successfully treated, and 9 of 16 cats had undetectable titers. In contrast, in 5 of 6 cats in which treatment failed, antigen titers were unchanged or increased in magnitude even after at least 6 months of treatment.
Correlation Between Serum Creatine Kinase Activities And Anorexia in Cats
Authors: Fascetti Andrea J. , Mauldin Glenna E. , Mauldin G. Neal
Published: March 2010

There are no available biochemical analyses that will reliably identify malnourished cats or enable monitoring them during supportive alimentation. Studies in people indicate that creatine kinase (CK) activity is high in malnourished patients and may decrease in response to nutritional intervention. The purpose of this study was to determine the value of quantifying serum CK activities in anorectic cats and to assess the usefulness of this test in monitoring nutritional support in these patients. Serum CK activity was evaluated in nonanorectic cats (Group 1, n = 25), and in hospitalized, anorectic cats that received nutritional support through a nasoesophageal tube (Group 2, n = 25). Anorectic cats had a significantly higher serum CK activity (median = 2,529 U/L, range 88 to 153,000 U/L) than the control group (median = 175 U/L, range 81 to 363 U/L,P< .001). There were significant positive correlations between serum CK and both aspartate transaminase (AST) (P< .05;r= .59) and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) (P < .05;r= .41) activities. Serum CK activity was significantly lower in anorectic cats after 48 hours of nutritional support than at time 0 (P< .001) and eventually returned to normal with continued support. Serum CK activity may serve as a useful marker in assessing and monitoring nutritional status in cats.
Association of Hepatic Necrosis With Trimethoprim Sulfonamide Administration in 4 Dogs
Authors: Twedt David C. , Diehl Kelly J. , Lappin Michael R. , Getzy David M.
Published: March 2010

Hepatic necrosis in association with trimethoprim‐sulfonamide (TMS) combination therapy was diagnosed in 4 dogs based on history, clinical presentation, and examination of histopathologic specimens collected postmortem. Duration of TMS therapy prior to onset of clinical signs ranged from 4 to 30 days. The dose of TMS ranged from 18 mg/kg to 53 mg/kg bid. Despite supportive medical therapy, all dogs died or were euthanized due to hepatic failure. This report highlights the potential for hepatotoxicity during TMS therapy. Duration of therapy, type of TMS combination, and dose did not appear related to the development of toxicity. The low number of dogs affected suggests an idiosyncratic drug reaction.
Glomerular Ultrastructural Findings Similar to Hereditary Nephritis in 4 English Cocker Spaniels
Authors: Lees George E. , Wilson Patrick D. , Helman R. Gayman , Homco Linda D. , Frey Miles S.
Published: March 2010

Renal disease affecting 3 male and 1 female English Cocker Spaniels was studied. Clinical features of the disease included proteinuria and progressive deterioration of renal function. Dogs were 11 to 27 months old when euthanized because of severe chronic renal failure. Grossly, the renal cortices were thin. Light microscopic evaluation revealed diffuse glomerular disease characterized by mesangial thickening, glomerular fibrosis, periglomerular fibrosis, and glomerular obsolescence. Based on these clinical and pathologic features, familial nephropathy of English Cocker Spaniels was suspected despite the fact that the individual dogs were not closely related. On transmission electron microscopy, a distinctive ultrastructural lesion was observed in the glomerular basement membranes (GBM) of all dogs. The GBM exhibited extensive thickening, multilaminar splitting, and fragmentation. Electron dense deposits, suggestive of immunocomplex glomerular disease, were notably absent. A similar ultrastructural GBM lesion is found in human beings and Samoyeds with hereditary nephritis, diseases caused by mutations in the type IV collagen genes. Familial nephropathy in English Cocker Spaniels may be a form of hereditary nephritis caused by a mutation in one of the collagen IV genes.
Basophilic Leukemia in a Dog
Authors: Mears Erick A. , Raskin Rose E. , Legendre Alfred M.
Published: March 2010

Basophilic leukemia with thrombocytosis was diagnosed in a 4‐year‐old Shih Tzu. This diagnosis was based on cyto‐chemical staining and cytologic examination of blood and bone marrow smears. Hydroxyurea, an inhibitor of DNA synthesis, at a dose of 50 mg/kg PO bid induced hematologic remission after 7 days of treatment. Adverse effects observed included pruritus, erythema of the ventral abdomen, generalized alopecia, and possibly, diabetes mellitus. The dog remained in remission for 21 months before becoming lethargic, at which time the owners requested euthanasia but did not allow a necropsy.
Effects of Glucocorticoid Therapy on Urine Protein‐to‐Creatinine Ratios and Renal Morphology in Dogs
Authors: Waters Carrie B. , Adams Larry G. , Scott‐Moncrieff J. Catharine , DeNicola Dennis B. , Snyder Paul W. , White M. Randall , Gasparini Mauro
Published: March 2010

Glomerulonephritis has been associated with exogenous glucocorticoid administration and spontaneous hyperadrenocorticism in the dog. The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of long‐term glucocorticoid therapy on urine protein:creatinine ratios (UP/Cs) and renal morphology. Nine young‐adult male dogs were determined to be healthy and have normal renal function as assessed by physical examination, CBC, serum biochemistry analysis, Knott's test forDirofilaria immitis, urinaly‐sis, urine culture, urine protein electrophoresis, endogenous creatinine clearance, 24‐hour urinary protein excretion, and UP/C. Prednisone was administered to each dog at a dosage of 2.2 mg/kg PO bid for 42 days. Urinalysis and UP/C were performed on days 0, 7, 14, 21, 28, and 42 of treatment. Mean UP/C on day 0 was 0.29 ± 0.10. Mean UP/C increased progressively to a maximum of 1.27 ± 1.02 on day 28. Mean UP/C on day 42 decreased slightly (0.92 ± 0.56) but remained significantly increased above baseline.

The most consistent renal light microscopic finding on necropsy examination was generalized hypercellular glomerular tufts, suggestive of mesangial cell proliferation. Four dogs also had occasional adhesions of glomerular tufts to Bowman's capsule, accompanied by thickening of the capsule. Direct immunofluorescence for immunoglobulin deposition was negative in all dogs. Electron microscopy, evaluated in 7 dogs, was characterized by occasional mild segmental thickening of basement membranes, fusion of visceral cell foot processes, and glomerular adhesions. The results of this study indicate that long‐term administration of glucocorticoids results in significant proteinuria and glomerular changes in the dog.
Use of Ursodeoxycholic Acids in a Dog With Chronic Hepatitis: Effects on Serum Hepatic Tests and Endogenous Bile Acid Composition
Authors: Meyer Denny J. , Thompson Morrow B. , Senior David F.
Published: March 2010

A dog with severe cholestasis secondary to chronic hepatitis was treated with ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA1 PO. After 2 weeks of daily treatment, the dog was more active and had an improved appetite. Monthly serum biochemical determinations and analysis of individual bile acid profiles documented improvement in hepatobiliary tests and a marked reduction in the concentrations of potentially hepatotoxic endogenous bile acids. These effects were maintained for approximately 6 months‐ The findings in this dog are similar to those reported for human patients treated with UDCA and provide preliminary evidence in support of its continued evaluation in the treatment of cholestatic liver disease in the dog.
Right Atrioventricular Valve Malformation in Dogs and Cats: An Electrocardiographic Survey With Emphasis on Splintered QRS Complexes
Authors: Kornreich Bruce G. , Moïse N. Sydney
Published: March 2010

The purposes of this study were 2‐fold: (1) to determine the prevalence of splintered QRS complexes (Rr', RR', rR', rr') and other electrocardiographic abnormalities in dogs and cats with congenital right atrioventricular valve malformation (RAVM) and (2) to determine if the Labrador Retriever was at greater risk for RAVM and splintered QRS complexes. EKGs from 39 dogs and 6 cats with echocardiographically diagnosed RAVM were studied retrospectively. Splintered QRS complexes were commonly found in affected Labrador Retrievers (9 of 19, 47%), non‐Labrador Retrievers (12 of 20, 60%), and cats (4 of 6, 67%). Right ventricular enlargement was most commonly detected by precordial leads (CV6LL[V2], CV6LU[V4]) in the dogs and by the standard limb leads in the cats. Arrhythmias were uncommon. The Labrador Retriever was significantly overrepresented (P < .001) in the RAVM group when compared to the general hospital population (50% versus 8%). Males were also significantly overrepresented (P< .01). It was concluded that splintered QRS complexes are a distinctive and common electrocardiographic finding in dogs and cats with RAVM. Moreover, this congenital cardiac defect is most common in the Labrador Retriever, although this breed does not have proportionately more or less splintering of the QRS complexes than other breeds.
Idiopathic Polyneuropathy in Alaskan Malamutes
Authors: Braund Kyle G. , Shores Andy , Lowrie Chuck T. , Steinberg H. Steven , Moore Michael P. , Bagley Rod S. , Steiss Janet E.
Published: March 2010

Clinical and morphologic features of a progressive polyneuropathy in young mature Alaskan Malamutes are described. Clinical signs included progressive paraparesis, synchronous pelvic limb gait, exercise intolerance, hyperesthesia, hypore‐flexia, muscle atrophy, and tetraplegia. Electromyographic testing revealed diffuse fibrillation potentials and positive sharp waves in limb muscles, especially in muscles below the elbow and stifle. Pathologic findings in skeletal muscles and peripheral nerves included neurogenic muscle atrophy, focal or diffuse loss of myelinated nerve fibers, myelinoaxonal necrosis, and variable demyelination or remyelination.

Ultrastructural changes included axonal degeneration, presence of numerous Büngner bands, and denervated Schwann cell subunits. The nature and distribution of abnormal electrophysiologic and pathologic findings were suggestive of a distal sensorimotor polyneuropathy, which we have termed idiopathic polyneuropathy of Alaskan Malamutes to distinguish this condition from hereditary polyneuropathy of Norwegian Alaskan Malamutes, last described in 1982.