bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Surgical treatment of urate calculi in Dalmatians: 38 cases (1980-1995)
Authors: Collins Roxane L. , Birchard Stephen J. , Chew Dennis J. , Heuter Kerry J.
Published: December 2023

Objective—

To assess clinical signs and response to surgical treatment in Dalmatians with urate urolithiasis.

Design—

Retrospective study.

Animals—

38 Dalmatians.

Procedure—

Medical records from 1980 to 1995 of Dalmatians with urate urolithiasis were reviewed to obtain information on history, results of physical examination, hemogram, biochemical analysis, urinalysis, bacterial culture of urine, diagnostic imaging, analysis of calculi, treatment, and recurrence.

Results—

35 (92%) dogs were males. Mean age at admission was 4.9 years. Common clinical findings and initial complaints included dribbling of urine, stranguria, vomiting, tense abdomen with signs of pain, and a large bladder. Hematuria was found in 85% of dogs in which urinalysis was performed. Crystalluria was found in 54% of dogs. Bacteria were isolated from urine from 36% of dogs. Contrast radiography and abdominal ultrasonography were the most sensitive diagnostic tests for uroliths. Dogs that underwent scrotal urethrostomy and cystotomy had the fewest number of recurrent clinical signs that were attributable to urinary calculi. Clinical recurrence rate in dogs on a protein-restricted diet was 27%, compared with that (36%) for dogs on a commercial diet.

Clinical Implications—

Urate urolithiasis is more commonly recognized in male Dalmatians compared with females. Contrast radiography and ultrasonography appear to be the most useful techniques for detecting urate uroliths. Scrotal urethrostomy and cystotomy was the most effective surgical treatment for preventing recurrence of clinical signs associated with calculi. Complete removal of calculi and protein-restricted diets may have a beneficial effect in reducing recurrence of calculi. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1998;213:833-838)
Occult osseous metastasis of a colonic adenocarcinoma visualized with technetium Tc 99m hydroxymethylene diphosphate scintigraphy in a horse
Authors: East Leslie M. , Steyn Phillip F. , Dickinson Charles E. , Frank Anthony A.
Published: December 2023

Colonic adenocarcinoma is a rare tumor of glandular crypt epithelium in middle-aged and older horses; the tumor may metastasize to the mesenteric lymph nodes, liver, and lungs, but it has not been reported to metastasize to bone and muscle.

Clinical signs of abdominal neoplasia may be vague and nonspecific; extensive diagnostic testing of these animals often is required.

Radionucleotide imaging, using technetium Tc 99m hydroxymethylene diphosphate in conjunction with technetium Tc 99m hexamethylpropylenamine oxime, can be a sensitive noninvasive tool to identify the nature of a disseminated disease when radiography is not sensitive enough to detect early osteoblastic changes that precede morphologic changes.
Incomplete urethral duplication with cyst formation in a dog
Authors: Duffey Marcie H. , Barnhart Matthew D. , Barthez Paul Y. , Smeak Daniel D.
Published: December 2023

Intermittent incontinence can be associated with incomplete urethral duplication in dogs.

Urethral duplication in dogs can be diagnosed by urethrography, voiding cystourethrography, or radiography after direct administration of positive contrast medium into cystic structures, if present.

Surgical removal of the urethral duplication and cysts can be curative in dogs.
Effect of a commercially available nonspecific immunomodulating biologic product on health of neonatal calves
Authors: Kirk John H. , Atwill Edward R. , Festa David , Adams Carol
Published: December 2023

Objective

To determine whether treatment with a commercially available nonspecific immunomodulating biologic product would alter the clinical course of disease in neonatal calves.

Design

Systematically randomized, controlled cohort study.

Animals

200 Holstein bull calves 1 to 5 days old.

Procedure

Assessments were performed that included evaluation of fecal consistency, attitude, appetite, and hydration status. Calves with abnormal results were enrolled in the study. Calves were systematically assigned to control or treatment groups (100 calves/group). Calves in the treatment group were given a single IV injection of the biologic product at the time of enrollment, whereas control calves were not given the product. Calves were assessed daily for 5 days to evaluate fecal consistency, attitude, appetite, hydration status, and rectal temperature. Assessments were made without knowledge of group assignment.

Results

Treatment with the immunomodulating product was not associated with a decrease in the number of calves that had moderate or severe departures from clinically normal conditions for attitude, appetite, or hydration on days 1 though 5, compared with control calves. Fecal consistency scores were significantly greater for treated calves on days 1 (P = 0.03) and 5 (P = 0.02), compared with scores for control calves.

Clinical Implications

Administration of the nonspecific immunomodulating biologic product did not significantly affect outcome of clinical disease for calves in the treated group, compared with calves in the control group. On the basis of results of this study, we cannot recommend use of the nonspecific immunomodulating biologic product for the treatment of undifferentiated diarrheal disease in neonatal calves. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1998;213:1308-1311)
Myocardial infarction in dogs and cats: 37 cases (1985-1994)
Authors: Driehuys Sunita , Van Winkle Thomas J. , Sammarco Carl D. , Drobatz Kenneth J.
Published: December 2023

Objective

To determine the incidence of acute and subacute myocardial infarction on postmortem examination, identify associated diseases, and evaluate clinical or diagnostic indicators of myocardial infarction in dogs and cats.

Design

Retrospective study.

Animals

32 dogs and 5 cats.

Procedure

Records from the necropsy service from December 1985 through August 1994 were searched for dogs and cats in which acute or subacute myocardial infarction was diagnosed on postmortem examination. Clinical records were reviewed for signalment, initial owner complaint, medical history, results of physical examination, electrocardiography, radiography, echocardiography, CBC, serum chemistry analysis, urinalysis, and coagulation profile as well as clinical course, outcome, necropsy findings, and results of histologic evaluation.

Results

Initial owner complaints and physical examination findings were consistent with associated diseases. Electrocardiographic abnormalities in dogs included ventricular tachycardia (16%), atrial fibrillation (9%), and premature ventricular contractions (6.5%). Premature ventricular contractions were noticed in 2 cats. Echocardiography revealed dilated, poorly contractile hearts (n = 3) and thickened mitral valves (2) in dogs, and ventricular hypertrophy (3) in cats. Ninety-seven percent of dogs had infarction of the left ventricle as well as other other portions of the heart. Infarctions in cats were found in all parts of the myocardium including the right ventricle (n = 3), left ventricle (3), and interventricular septum (1).

Clinical Implications

Myocardial infarction is rare in dogs and cats. It is associated with a number of common diseases and may contribute to morbidity and mortality in those dogs and cats that are critically ill. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1998;213:1444-1448)
Rabies surveillance in the United States during 1997
Authors: Krebs John W. , Smith Jean S. , Rupprecht Charles E. , Childs James E.
Published: December 2023

In 1997, 49 states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico reported 8,509 cases of rabies in nonhuman animals and 4 cases in human beings to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Nearly 93% (7,899) were wild animals, whereas 7% (610) were domestic species. The total number of reported cases increased 19.4% from that of 1996 (7,128 cases). Increases were apparent in each of the major species groups, with the exception of cattle. The relative contributions of these groups to the total reported for 1997 were as follows: raccoons (50.5%; 4,300 cases), skunks (24.0%; 2,040), bats (11.3%; 958), foxes (5.3%; 448), cats (3.5%; 300), dogs (1.5%; 126), and cattle (1.4%; 122). The 958 cases of rabies reported in bats represented a 29.3% increase over the total reported for 1996 and the greatest number reported since 1984, with cases reported by 46 of the 48 contiguous states. The epizootic of rabies in raccoons expanded into Ohio in 1997 and now includes 19 states and the District of Columbia. Thirteen states, where rabies in raccoons is enzootic, reported increases over 1996 in total numbers of reported cases. Among these, New York (1,264 cases), North Carolina (879), Virginia (690), and Maryland (619) reported the greatest numbers of cases. Five states reported increases that exceeded 50%, compared with cases reported in 1996: Ohio (673.3%; 15 cases in 1996 to 116 in 1997), Massachusetts (144.3%; 115 to 281), South Carolina (97.9%; 96 to 190), Connecticut (97.4%; 274 to 541), and Maine (86.3%; 131 to 244). Cases of rabies associated with foci of rabies in foxes in west central Texas and in dogs and coyotes in southern Texas continued to decline, with this state reporting 78.3% fewer rabid foxes (13 cases), 26.7% fewer rabid dogs (11), and 63.2% fewer rabid coyotes (7) during 1997, compared with 1996. Reported cases of rabies in cats (300) and dogs (126) increased 12.8% and 13.5%, respectively, whereas cases in cattle (122) decreased by 6.9%. Thirty states, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico reported increases in rabies in animals during 1997, compared with decreases reported by 31 states and the District of Columbia in 1996. One state (Mississippi; 5 cases) remained unchanged. Hawaii was the only state that did not report a case of rabies in 1997. Four indigenously acquired cases of rabies reported in human beings were the result of infection with rabies virus variants associated with bats.
Psychogenic alopecia in cats: 11 cases (1993–1996)
Authors: Sawyer Laurence S. , Moon-Fanelli Alice A. , Dodman Nicholas H.
Published: December 2023

Objective

To determine signalment, history, clinical signs, and response to treatment of cats with psychogenic alopecia (PA) and to identify factors associated with its onset and propagation.

Design

Retrospective study.

Animals

11 cats.

Procedure

A survey was used to obtain information about breed, sex, age at time of weaning, frequency and duration of licking bouts, age at time of onset of PA, situations eliciting licking bouts, results of diagnostic tests, treatment, response to treatment, and current status of the cats. Additional information was obtained from medical records and by telephone conversations with owners and attending veterinarians.

Results

Four cats were purebred, and 7 were domestic shorthair. Six were female, and 5 were male; all were neutered. Eight cats were kept exclusively indoors. Age at time of onset of PA ranged from 6 months to 12 years. Environmental stresses initiated or exacerbated PA in 9 cats. Various methods were used to confirm the diagnosis, including therapeutic trials with antidepressant and anxiolytic drugs in 10 cats. All 5 cats treated with clomipramine, 2 of 3 treated with amitriptyline, and 1 of 4 treated with buspirone responded positively. Only 3 cats were still receiving medication at the time of this study; none of those 3 groomed excessively while receiving medication. Psychogenic alopecia resolved in 6 cats after drug treatment, environmental modification, or both. Psychogenic alopecia continued to be a problem in the remaining 2 cats.

Clinical Implications

Environmental stress may initiate or exacerbate PA in cats. Drug treatment, environmental modification, or both may be useful in treatment of affected cats. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1999;214:71–74)
Evaluation of enterolithiasis in equids: 900 cases (1973–1996)
Authors: Hassel Diana M. , Langer Douglas L. , Snyder Jack R. , Drake Christiana M. , Goodell Michael L. , Wyle Alexandra
Published: December 2023

Objective

To identify breed, age, sex, physical findings, history, and outcome of treatment in horses and other equids with enterolithiasis.

Design

Retrospective study.

Animals

900 equids with enterolithiasis.

Procedure

Medical records from equids with enterolithiasis admitted between 1973 and 1996 were reviewed. Data on signalment, history, physical examination and clinicopathologic findings, surgical findings, and outcome were compiled from records and from telephone interviews with owners. Sex and breed predilections were determined by comparison of the study population with the general hospital population of equids during the same time period.

Results

Equids with enterolithiasis represented 15.1% of patients admitted for treatment of colic, and 27.5% of patients undergoing celiotomy for treatment of colic. Arabian and Arabian crosses, Morgans, American Saddlebreds, and donkeys were significantly overrepresented, and Thoroughbreds, Standardbreds, warmbloods, and stallions were significantly underrepresented in the study population, compared with the hospital population. The mean age of equids with enterolithiasis was 11.4 years. The most common historic findings were signs of intermittent colic (33.3%) and passage of enteroliths in the feces (13.5%). Physical examination findings were similar to those found in equids with other forms of nonstrangulating large colon obstructive disease. Fifteen percent (131) developed gastrointestinal tract rupture caused by an enterolith that necessitated euthanasia. Short-term and 1-year survival rates for equids undergoing celiotomy for treatment of enterolithiasis and recovering from anesthesia were excellent (96.2 and 92.5%, respectively), and postoperative complications were uncommon. Recurrence of enterolithiasis was identified in 7.7% of the study population.

Clinical Implications

Results indicated that short-term and 1-year survival rates for equids undergoing surgery for enterolithiasis are excellent. Identification of signalment, history, and management factors may help identify equids with a high risk for development of enterolithiasis. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1999;214;233–237)
Duration of naturally acquired giardiosis and cryptosporidiosis in dairy calves and their association with diarrhea
Authors: O'Handley Ryan M. , Cockwill Carol , McAllister Tim A. , Jelinski Murray , Morck Douglas W. , Olson Merle E.
Published: December 2023

Objective

To determine duration of infection and association of infection with diarrhea for dairy calves with naturally acquired cryptosporidiosis and giardiosis.

Design

Cohort study.

Animals

20 Holstein calves on a single dairy farm.

Procedure

Fecal samples were collected 3 times/wk for the first 45 days after birth, then weekly until calves were 120 days old and examined for Giardia duodenalis cysts and Cryptosporidium parvum oocysts. Calves were monitored for diarrhea during the first 45 days after birth; during each episode of diarrhea, fecal samples were examined for parasitic, bacterial, and viral pathogens.

Results

All 20 calves shed Giardia cysts and Cryptosporidium oocysts at some time during the study. Mean ages at which Giardia cysts and Cryptosporidium oocysts were first detected were 31.5 and 16.3 days, respectively. Mean number of Giardia cysts in feces remained high throughout the study, whereas Cryptosporidium oocysts decreased to low or undetectable numbers 2 weeks after infection. Eighteen calves had a total of 38 episodes of diarrhea during the first 45 days after birth. Giardia duodenalis was the only pathogen identified during 6 (16%) episodes, C parvum was the only pathogen identified during 9 (24%) episodes, and G duodenalis and C parvum were identified together during 10 (26%) episodes.

Conclusions

Prevalences of giardiosis and cryptosporidiosis were high in these calves, and both parasites were associated with development of diarrhea. Cryptosporidium parvum was an important pathogen when calves were < 1 month old, but G duodenalis was more important when calves were older. Calves cleared C parvum infections within 2 weeks; however, G duodenalis infections became chronic in these calves. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1999;214:391–396)
Use of bovine somatotropin at the time of surgery for left displacement of the abomasum in dairy cows
Authors: Fetrow John P. , Pankowski Joel W. , Vicini John L. , Ames Trevor R. , _ _
Published: December 2023

Objective

To evaluate the effect of a single dose of recombinant bovine somatotropin (bST) on certain metabolic values, health, and milk production of dairy cows undergoing surgery for left displacement of the abomasum.

Design

Blinded clinical trial.

Animals

413 cows with left displacement of the abomasum.

Procedure

A single 500-mg dose of bST was administered to dairy cows following surgery in field practice conditions for left displacement of the abomasum. A placebo of the same carrier without bST was administered to control cows in this blinded study. Metabolic and production responses in a short-term follow-up period were measured.

Results

Blood glucose concentrations in cows 3 to 5 days after surgery were statistically higher for treated cows than for control cows. A higher proportion of treated cows had improved urine ketone test results than did controls. Significant differences in other metabolic values, health, and milk production were not detected.

Clinical Implications

Treatment of metabolically compromised cows with bST may have some positive effects, but further investigation is needed to confirm therapeutic value. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1999;214:529–531)
Cytologic examination of specimens obtained by means of tracheal washes performed before and after high-speed treadmill exercise in horses with a history of poor performance
Authors: Martin Benson B. , Beech Jill , Parente Eric J.
Published: December 2023

Objective

To evaluate results of cytologic examination of specimens obtained by means of tracheal washes (TW) in 42 horses with a history of poor performance.

Design

Cross-sectional case series.

Animals

42 horses with a history of poor performance.

Procedure

A TW was performed via endoscopy before and after horses exercised on a high-speed treadmill, and specimens were evaluated microscopically and graded.

Results

Ten (24%) horses were considered to be clinically normal before and after exercise. Pulmonary hemorrhage was diagnosed in 8 (19%) horses. One horse had evidence of exercise-induced pulmonary hemorrhage (EIPH) before exercise and pulmonary hemorrhage and allergic or inflammatory airway disease (IAD) after exercise. Five (12%) horses had IAD, and 1 had IAD and pulmonary hemorrhage after exercise. Seven (17%) horses had evidence of EIPH and IAD in both specimens. Four (10%) horses with EIPH had an increase in the proportion of hemosiderophages in the specimen obtained after exercise. Specimens obtained before exercise in 6 (14%) horses were not representative of the respiratory tract and could not be compared with specimens obtained after exercise.

Clinical Implications

Interpretation of TW specimens obtained before and after exercise differed for only 5 of 36 (14%) horses. Specimens obtained after exercise were more likely to reveal airway disease. All specimens obtained after exercise adequately represented the respiratory tract, whereas 6 specimens obtained before exercise did not. Specimens obtained after exercise contained more airway secretions and had less cytologic evidence of pharyngeal contamination. Therefore, we recommend that TW samples be obtained after exercise in horses. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1999;214:673–677)
Growth of suckling beef calves in response to parenteral administration of selenium and the effect of dietary protein provided to their dams
Authors: Castellan David M. , Maas John P. , Gardner Ian A. , Oltjen James W. , Sween Matthew L.
Published: December 2023

Objective

To determine whether parenteral administration of selenium (Se) to calves and the amount of forage and protein provided to their dams affects unadjusted body weight, adjusted 205-day body weight, and average daily gain (ADG) of suckling beef calves.

Design

Randomized controlled field trial.

Animals

151 Hereford-Angus crossbred beef calves.

Procedure

Newborn calves, randomly assigned to 1 of 3 groups, served as untreated controls (n = 49) or were given Se (0.05 mg/kg [0.023 mg/lb] of body weight, SC) once within 2 days of birth (55) or within 2 days of birth and on days 70, 114, and 149 (47). Until day 149, cow-calf pairs were pastured in fields in which the amount of available forage was high or low and supplemental protein was or was not provided. Calves were weighed on days 1, 70, 149, and 209. On days 160 and 209, blood was obtained from 33 calves for measurements of Se concentration.

Results

Mean consumption of supplemental protein was 0.65 kg/dam/d. Between days 1 and 70, calves that received the first of 4 multiple injections of Se had significantly greater ADG than control calves. Average daily gain for calves given only 1 injection was not significantly different from controls. Between days 70 and 149, ADG of calves increased with dietary supplementation of protein to their dams.

Clinical Implications

Strategic administration of Se to calves and dietary supplementation of protein to their dams may result in greater ADG in suckling beef calves during specific time intervals. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1999;214:816–821)
Economic analysis of an outbreak of avian influenza, 1997–1998
Authors: Davison Sherrill , Galligan David , Eckert Troy E. , Ziegler Andre F. , Eckroade Robert J.
Published: December 2023

Objective

To determine economic losses associated with an outbreak of avian influenza in flocks in Pennsylvania during 1997 and 1998.

Sample Population

5 premises containing avian influenza-infected layer, pullet, and turkey flocks.

Procedure

Losses incurred before depopulation, those incurred at the time of depopulation, and those that were attributable to depopulation (unrealized loss of income) were evaluated. Results were extrapolated to provide values for all infected flocks.

Results

Extrapolating the costs determined on the basis of age and number of birds from the 5 sample flocks to all other flocks infected with nonpathogenic avian influenza H7N2 yielded an estimated total cost to the Pennsylvania poultry industry of $3.5 million.

Clinical Implications

The H7N2 virus is not highly pathogenic. If the pathogenicity of the virus does not change, then the poultry industry and state and federal governments will not have severe economic losses for the 1997–1998 outbreak similar to those for the 1983–1984 avian influenza outbreak in Pennsylvania. To decrease the potential for financial losses that could result from future outbreaks of avian influenza, it is essential that the commercial industry and live-bird market system be separated via increased use of biosecurity measures. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1999;214:1164–1167)
Factors contributing to the decision for euthanasia of dogs with congestive heart failure
Authors: Mallery Kevin F. , Freeman Lisa M. , Harpster Neil K. , Rush John E.
Published: December 2023

Objective

To determine the prevalence of clinical signs that affect quality of life in dogs with congestive heart failure (CHF), and to characterize the role of these clinical signs in the decision for euthanasia.

Design

Prospective study.

Animals

38 dogs with CHF that had been euthanatized within the preceding 22 months.

Procedure

Clinical information and factors affecting the decision for euthanasia were reviewed and recorded from medical records of dogs with CHF. Each owner was then interviewed via telephone to determine whether their dog had anorexia or other clinical signs of disease prior to euthanasia, their perception of their dogs’ quality of life, and the most important factor and contributing factors that influenced the decision to euthanatize their dog.

Results

Of the 38 dogs with CHF, > 70% had weakness (35 dogs), coughing (33), anorexia (32), weight loss (32), dyspnea (30), or exercise intolerance (28) reported by their owners. Factors often named by owners as most important in the decision for euthanasia were poor prognosis given by the attending veterinarian, recurrent clinical signs of CHF (ie, coughing, dyspnea, or ascites), and poor quality of life. Weakness, anorexia, and recurrent clinical signs of CHF were the most common contributing factors in the decision for euthanasia.

Clinical Implications

Anorexia, weight loss, and exercise intolerance are common in dogs euthanatized because of CHF. The importance of quality of life and poor prognosis in making a decision for euthanasia suggests that addressing these factors may improve patient management. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1999;214:1201–1204)
Concurrent pituitary and adrenal tumors in dogs with hyperadrenocorticism: 17 cases (1978-1995)
Authors: Greco Deborah S. , Peterson Mark E. , Davidson Autumn P. , Feldman Edward C. , Komurek Kathianne
Published: December 2023

Objective

To describe the clinicopathologic characteristics of dogs with hyperadrenocorticism and concurrent pituitary and adrenal tumors.

Design

Retrospective study.

Animals

17 client-owned dogs.

Procedure

Signalment, response to treatment, and results of CBC, serum biochemical analysis, urinalysis, endocrine testing, and histologic examinations were obtained from medical records of dogs with hyperadrenocorticism and concurrent adrenal and chromophobe pituitary tumors.

Results

On the basis of results of adrenal function tests and histologic examination of tissue specimens collected during surgery and necropsy, concurrent pituitary and adrenal tumors were identified in 17 of approximately 1,500 dogs with hyperadrenocorticism. Twelve were neutered females, 5 were males (3 sexually intact, 2 neutered); and median age was 12 years (range, 7 to 16 years). Hyperadrenocorticism had been diagnosed by use of low-dose dexamethasone suppression tests and ACTH stimulation tests. During high-dose dexamethasone suppression testing of 16 dogs, serum cortisol concentrations remained high in 11 dogs but decreased in 5 dogs. Plasma concentrations of endogenous ACTH were either high or within the higher limits of the reference range (12/16 dogs), within the lower limits of the reference range (2/16), or low (2/16). Adrenal lesions identified by histologic examination included unilateral cortical adenoma with contralateral hyperplasia (10/17), bilateral cortical adenomas (4/17), and unilateral carcinoma with contralateral hyperplasia (3/17). Pituitary lesions included a chromophobe microadenoma (12/17), macroadenoma (4/17), and carcinoma (1/17).

Clinical Implications

Pituitary and adrenal tumors can coexist in dogs with hyperadrenocorticism, resulting in a confusing mixture of test results that may complicate diagnosis and treatment of hyperadrenocorticism. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1999;214:1349–1353)
Effect of perioperative prophylactic antimicrobial treatment in dogs undergoing elective orthopedic surgery
Authors: Whittem Ted L. , Johnson Ann L. , Smith Charles W. , Schaeffer David J. , Coolman Bradley R. , Averill Scott M. , Cooper Timothy K. , Merkin Graham R.
Published: December 2023

Objective

To determine whether perioperative antimicrobial prophylaxis would reduce incidence of postoperative infection among dogs undergoing elective orthopedic procedures.

Design

Randomized, controlled, blinded, intention clinical trial.

Animals

Dogs of any breed, sex, or age undergoing elective orthopedic surgery at a veterinary teaching hospital.

Procedures

Dogs were randomly assigned to 1 of 3 groups: treatment with saline solution, treatment with potassium penicillin G, and treatment with cefazolin. Treatments were intended to be administered within 30 minutes prior to surgery; a second dose was administered if surgery lasted > 90 minutes. Dogs were monitored for 10 to 14 days after surgery for evidence of infection.

Results

After the first 112 dogs were enrolled in the study, it was found that infection rate for control dogs (5/32 dogs) was significantly higher than the rate for dogs treated with antimicrobials (3/80 dogs). Therefore, no more dogs were enrolled in the study. A total of 126 dogs completed the study. Monte Carlo simulations indicated that compared with dogs that received antimicrobials prophylactically, dogs that received saline solution developed infections significantly more frequently. Difference in efficacy, however, was not observed between the 2 antimicrobial drugs used.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance

Results indicated that perioperative antimicrobial prophylaxis decreased postoperative infection rate in dogs undergoing elective orthopedic surgery, compared with infection rate in control dogs. Cefazolin was not more efficacious than potassium penicillin G in these dogs. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1999;215:212–216)
Radiographic, ultrasonographic, and endoscopic findings in cats with inflammatory bowel disease of the stomach and small intestine: 33 cases (1990–1997)
Authors: Baez Jennifer L. , Hendrick Mattie J. , Walker Lynn M. , Washabau Robert J.
Published: December 2023

Objective

To characterize imaging findings in cats with confirmed inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) of the upper gastrointestinal tract (ie, stomach and small intestine) and relate these findings to clinical signs and histologic changes.

Design

Retrospective study.

Animals

33 cats with clinical and histopathologic diagnoses of IBD.

Procedure

Medical records were reviewed for signalment, clinical signs, clinicopathologic findings, radiographic and ultrasonographic findings, and results of endoscopic examination. Histologic findings were reviewed and characterized by severity and type of inflammatory infiltrate.

Results

All cats had 1 or more clinical signs (eg, vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss, and anorexia) consistent with IBD. Lymphocytic and plasmacytic infiltrates were observed in histologic sections of gastrointestinal tissue. Crypt distortion, villous blunting and fusion, and fibrosis were most commonly seen in cats with moderate or severe IBD. Clinicopathologic findings of some cats included anemia, leukocytosis or leukopenia, hypocholesterolemia, and hyper- or hypoproteinemia. Abnormalities were not found on abdominal radiographic views in 9 of 9 cats. However, contrast studies using barium revealed radiographic abnormalities in 1 of 3 cats. In 13 of 17 cats, abdominal ultrasonography revealed several intestinal abnormalities (eg, poor intestinal wall layer definition, focal thickening) and large mesenteric lymph nodes with hypoechoic changes consistent with IBD. Endoscopic observation revealed findings (eg, erythema, plaques, mucosal friability) consistent with inflammation in 9 of 18 cats.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance

Compared with endoscopy of the gastrointestinal tract or abdominal radiography, clinical signs and ultrasonographic findings appear to have the best association with histologic grade of IBD in cats. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1999;215:349–354)
Percutaneous lung biopsy in cattle
Authors: Braun Ueli , Estermann Urs , Feige Karsten , Sydler Titus , Pospischil Andreas
Published: December 2023

Objective

To determine safety of lung biopsy in healthy cattle and compare 3 biopsy instruments for suitability of use.

Design

Prospective study.

Animals

60 healthy cows.

Procedure

Bilateral lung biopsy through the ninth intercostal space was attempted in all cows. The procedure was performed with cows standing and restrained by an assistant. To study the short-term effects of lung biopsy, 50 cows were slaughtered 1 day after the procedure and examined. To study the long-term effects of lung biopsy, the remaining 10 cows were examined daily for 10 days and then slaughtered. Three biopsy instruments—the Autovac biopsy canula, the Tru-Cut needle, and the Bard Biopty-System—were evaluated.

Results

2 cows collapsed momentarily during the procedure but recovered quickly. The remaining cows did not develop adverse effects, and general attitude and condition were not affected. Postmortem examination of the 50 cows slaughtered 1 day after the procedure revealed lesions ≤ 5.0 mm long and with a surface area ≤ 4.0 mm2 at 108 of 154 (71%) biopsy sites involving the pulmonary pleura. Biopsy specimens were obtained during 48 of 50 (96%) procedures in which the Tru-Cut needle was used, during 38 of 39 (97%) procedures in which the Bard Biopty-System was used, and during only 1 of 11 biopsy procedures in which the Autovac canula was used. At postmortem examination of the 10 cows slaughtered 10 days after the procedure, lesions were seen as small scars; adhesions were not observed.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance

Percutaneous lung biopsy is a safe procedure in healthy cows. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1999;215:679–681)
Effects of clomipramine hydrochloride on dominance-related aggression in dogs
Authors: White Marilyn M. , Neilson Jacqueline C. , Hart Benjamin L. , Cliff Kelly D.
Published: December 2023

Objective

To compare effects of the serotonergic drug clomipramine hydrochloride with those of placebo for treatment of dominance-related aggression in dogs.

Design

Randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind clinical trial.

Animals

28 neutered dogs > 1 year old with dominance-related aggression.

Procedure

Dogs displaying ≥ 3 aggressive episodes/wk toward ≥ 1 human family member in response to identifiable behavioral triggers were included in the study. Owners were instructed not to change patterns of interaction with their dogs during the study. After 2 weeks of baseline observations, dogs were treated for 6 weeks with clomipramine (1.5 mg/kg [0.7 mg/lb] of body weight, q 12 h; n = 15) or placebo (13). Responses to triggers were assigned the following aggression scores: no response, 0; growl or lip curl, 1; snap or bite, 2. Mean scores for responses to triggers were obtained during the 2-week pretreatment period (baseline) and during the first and second weeks, third and fourth weeks, and fifth and sixth weeks of treatment. At the end of the study, owners assigned a score designed to evaluate their overall perceived change in aggressiveness; this was referred to as the global score.

Results

Mean aggression scores decreased at the fifth and sixth week of treatment in both groups, compared with baseline scores. However, mean scores between groups were not different. Global scores, assigned by the owner, generally reflected changes in mean aggression scores.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance

Compared with placebo, clomipramine administered to dogs at the dosage recommended for treatment of separation anxiety did not reduce aggressiveness toward human family members. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1999; 215:1288–1291)
Measurements of reproductive function in stallions treated with trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole and pyrimethamine
Authors: Bedford Sylvia J. , McDonnell Sue M.
Published: December 2023

Objective

To evaluate the effects of trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole and pyrimethamine treatment on various measures of reproductive function in healthy pony stallions.

Design

Randomized complete block study.

Animals

12 healthy, mature pony stallions.

Procedure

Stallions were assigned to treatment and control groups balanced for age and various characteristics of reproductive function. The treated group received trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole and pyrimethamine for 90 days during summer and fall; the control group was not treated. Semen characteristics, sexual behavior, testicular volume, and sperm production efficiency were evaluated before treatment started and at 30-day intervals until 60 days after treatment ended.

Results

Effects of treatment were not detected for semen characteristics, testicular volume, sperm production efficiency, libido, erection, and quantitative measures of ejaculatory efficiency. At 30, 60, and 90 days, 4 of 6 treated stallions had unsteadiness upon mounting, clumsy or weak thrusting, failure to flex the back, and thready or inapparent ejaculatory pulses that resulted in dribbling of semen rather than forceful expulsion.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance

Although treatment with trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole and pyrimethamine may not affect semen quality, testicular volume, sperm production efficiency, erection, or libido of healthy stallions, treatment may induce changes in copulatory form and agility and alter the pattern and strength of ejaculation. Stallions that develop neurologic signs during treatment should be used with caution for breeding. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1999;215:1317–1319)
Perceptions of fourth-year veterinary students about the human-animal bond in veterinary practice and in veterinary college curricula
Authors: Williams Susan , Butler Carolyn , Sontag Mary-Ann
Published: December 2023

Objective

To assess veterinary students' perceptions regarding the importance of addressing the human-animal bond in veterinary practice and their perceptions about the adequacy of curricula on the human-animal bond as presented in US veterinary colleges.

Design

Survey.

Procedure

Data were collected via a brief questionnaire mailed during the summer of 1996. Questionnaires were returned by 552 senior veterinary students representing 21 of 27 veterinary colleges in the United States.

Results

Senior veterinary students believed that the human-animal bond should be a concern of practicing veterinarians, but most did not believe they were receiving adequate instruction about the human-animal bond in their veterinary colleges. Gender was significantly related to differences in perceptions; female students appeared to have more interest in addressing the human-animal bond than male students. Students in small animal programs viewed the human-animal bond differently than those in large animal programs. Finally, students attending schools with extensive human-animal bond or human relations curricula were more likely to believe they were receiving adequate instruction in this area than students in other schools.

Conclusions and Clinical Implications

Curricula addressing the human-animal bond need to be developed and implemented in veterinary colleges in the United States. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1999;215:1428–1432)
Diarrhea associated with trichomonosis in cats
Authors: Gookin Jody L. , Breitschwerdt Edward B. , Levy Michael G. , Gager Robin B. , Benrud Judy G.
Published: December 2023

Objective

To establish clinical features, course of illness, and treatment outcome of cats with diarrhea and concurrent infection with Trichomonas organisms. Prevalence of fecal trichomonads in a geographically comparable population of healthy indoor and feral cats also was assessed.

Design

Longitudinal study and a cohort study.

Animals

32 cats with diarrhea and naturally acquired trichomonosis that were native to North Carolina, Virginia, Connecticut, and Tennessee; 20 healthy indoor cats; and 100 feral cats.

Procedure

Trichomonosis was diagnosed in 32 cats by identification of organisms in fresh feces or by protozoal culture of feces.

Results

Diarrhea associated with the large intestine and trichomonosis were diagnosed in 32 cats. Median age of the cats was 9 months; 23 cats were ≤ 1 year old at the time of diagnosis. Two cats developed diarrhea accompanied by infection with Trichomonas organisms after the addition of an infected kitten into the home. Duration of diarrhea ranged from 2 days to 3 years. Six cats had a coexisting enteric infection. Treatment with antimicrobials improved fecal consistency and reduced the number of flagellates in the feces, but did not eliminate infection. Diarrhea (with microscopically detectable flagellates) was observed shortly after antibiotics were discontinued. Trichomonads were not recovered from feces of any healthy indoor or feral cats.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance

Our findings suggest that trichomonosis may be a cofactor in development of diarrhea in young cats. Trichomonas organisms were not identified as part of the indiginous fauna of healthy indoor or feral cats. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1999;215:1450–1454)
The early predictive value of platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio to hemorrhagic transformation of young acute ischemic stroke
Authors: Wen Huijun , Wang Ning , Lv Min , Yang Yue , Liu Hongmei
Published: December 2023

Background

The increasing incidence of acute ischemic stroke (AIS) necessitates a comprehensive understanding of the related factors. Hemorrhagic transformation (HT), a severe complication of AIS, is influenced by platelet-induced inflammation and lymphocyte levels.

Objective

To measure the predictive value of platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) in the occurrence of HT in young AIS patients.

Methods

Data of young AIS patients (n = 157) admitted to the hospital for the first time were retrospectively collected. The patients were divided into HT (63 patients) and non-HT groups (94 patients) on the basis of whether HT had occurred after admission. The National Institute of Health stroke scale (NIHSS) score was used to determine the severity of clinical symptoms. The relationship between PLR and HT and NIHSS scores was analyzed to evaluate the predictive value of PLR in the occurrence of HT using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) and area under the curve (AUC).

Results

Multivariate analysis showed that PLR and NIHSS are independent risk factors of HT. The PLR value of the observation group was positively associated with the NIHSS score (r = 0.8075, P < 0.0001). According to the PLR prediction about the occurrence of HT, an AUC of 0.713 (95% CI, 0.652–0.781), a cut-off value of 109.073, and a sensitivity and specificity of 0.806 and 0.674, respectively, were obtained.

Conclusions

PLR value can predict the possibility of HT in young AIS patients to a certain extent. To take effective measures to prevent HT in advance has crucial clinical significance according to PLR value.
Histological patterns of testicular biopsy in patients with azoospermia: single-institution experience
Authors: Čamdžić Nina , Muzika Višnja , Čustović Samra , Babić Mirsad , Dorić Mirsad , Salčin Edina Lazović , Kuskunović-Vlahovljak Suada
Published: December 2023

Objective of this study was to identify the histopathological patterns and their frequency in testicular biopsy specimens from azoospermic patients and to categorize it according to Modified Johnsen scoring system.

Methods: Testicular biopsies from male patients with clinical diagnosis of azoospermia were included in this study. All tissue samples were fixed in buffered 10% formalin, routinely processed and stained with Hematoxylin and Eosin. All cases were examined microscopically and categorized according to the histopathological patterns and Modified Johnsen scoring system.

Results: Total 219 cases of testicular biopsies from 125 azoospermic male patients were evaluated, with 94 cases of bilateral testicular biopsy. The most prevalent age group was of 30-39 years (66.2%). The most common histological pattern was of Sertoli cell only syndrome (58.4%) while the least represented pattern was germ cell maturation arrest, seen in 4.6% cases. The most common Modified Johnsen score was 2 (66.7%). There was discordance in histologic pattern in both testes in 12.76% of patients who had bilateral testicular biopsy.

Conclusion: Our study gives an insight on the most common histopathological patterns of azoospermic patients and emphasizes the need for a better national statistics and epidemiological studies of this entity. It also points out the significance of the bilateral testicular biopsy, as both, diagnostic and therapeutic procedure.
Adrenocortical carcinoma: A tumor with poor answer to classic chemotherapy
Authors: Sava Alexandra Daniela , Szekely Tiberiu Bogdan , Togănel Cornelia , Vacar Adela , Gurzu Simona
Published: December 2023

Introduction: Adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC) represents a rare endocrine malignancy being the second most aggressive endocrine cancer after anaplastic thyroid cancer. [1]. While most of them arise sporadically, up to 15% of adult ACC patients are related to germline mutations associated with familial cancer syndromes.[1,2]. Current treatment strategies include surgery as well as systemic therapy with mitotane and chemotherapy.

Case report: A 60-year-old female patient with a family history of colon cancer, multinodular goiter, hypothyroidism treated with substitutive therapy, uterine fibroids, and hypertension, was diagnosed with adrenocortical carcinoma. No distant metastasis were present at the moment of diagnosis so an adrenalectomy was performed. Due to postoperative complications, a total nephrectomy was also needed. Adjuvant Mitotane treatment was given. A CT exam performed 5 months after the resection showed multiple pulmonary metastasis, a liver nodule and peritoneal carcinomatosis. The standard first-line chemotherapy of choice was Carboplatin and Etoposide. After completing 3 cycles of chemotherapy the imaging reassessment show the progression of liver and peritoneal lesions and the quasi-complete regression of lung lesions. Currently, the Mitotate treatment was stopped due to severe adverse reactions.

Conclusions: Adrenocortical carcinoma is a rare endocrine malignancy with a poor prognosis. The recruitment of ACC patients for new clinical trials to investigate new treatment strategies is needed because currently, no significant therapeutic breakthrough is emerging.
Solid pseudopapillary neoplasm – Management of an extremely rare case of pancreatic tumor in a young patient
Authors: Daniealopol Valentin , Neagoe Radu Mircea , Sala Daniela Tatiana , Kiss Botond Istvan , Daniealopol Ruxandra
Published: December 2023

Introduction: Franz Tumor or the solid pseudopapillary neoplasm is a very rare form of pancreatic cancer, that can be held responsible for approximately 0.2-2% of the exocrine pancreatic tumors.

Case report: We report a case of a 20-year-old woman, without any comorbidities, admitted to our department accusing mild abdominal pain at the level of the left hypochondrium and epigastrium, that started approximately half a year ago. Computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging showed a voluminous encapsulated tumor, with mixed structure, apparently adherent to the tail of the pancreas, left kidney and adrenal gland, though being unable to certainly establish its visceral origin.

Management and results: After analyzing all aspects of the case, we decide in favor of a left subcostal laparotomy approach; the intraoperative aspect is that of a relatively well delineated mass, adherent at the level of the pancreatic tail, therefore a complete excision of the tumor alongside with the pancreatic tissue that came in contact with it was performed. The pathological analysis reveals an encapsulated tumor with solid and pseudopapillary structure, with hemorrhagic and cystic degeneration regions; therefore, we reach the following final diagnosis: pT3 stage pseudopapillary-solid pancreatic neoplasm.

Conclusions: In spite of its malignant behavior and impressive tumor volume, the surgical intervention was curative with favorable prognosis.