bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Acromegaly in 14 Cats
Authors: Peterson Mark E. , Taylor R. Steven , Greco Deborah S. , Nelson Richard W. , Randolph John F. , Foodman Melissa S. , Moroff Scott D. , Morrison Susan A. , Lothrop Clinton D.
Published: March 2010

Acromegaly was diagnosed in 14 middle‐aged to old cats of mixed breeding. Thirteen (93%) of the cats were male and one was female. The earliest clinical signs in the 14 cats included polyuria, polydipsia, polyphagia, all of which were associated with untreated diabetes mellitus. All developed severe insulin resistance within a few months; peak insulin dosages required to control severe hyperglycemia ranged from 20 to 130 U per day. Other clinical findings weeks to months after diagnosis included enlargement of one or more organs (e.g., liver, heart, kidneys, and tongue) (n = 14), cardiomyopathy (n = 13), increase in body size and weight gain (n = 8), nephropathy associated with azotemia and clinical signs of renal failure (n = 7), degenerative arthropathy (n = 6), and central nervous system signs (i.e., circling and seizures) caused by enlargement of the pituitary tumor (n = 2). The diagnosis of acromegaly was confirmed by demonstration of extremely high basal serum growth hormone concentrations (22 to 131 μg/1) in all cats. Computerized tomography disclosed a mass in the region of the pituitary gland and hypothalamus in five of the six cats in which it was performed. Two cats were treated by cobalt radiotherapy followed by administration of a somatostatin analogue (octreotide), whereas two cats were treated with octreotide alone. Treatment had little to no effect in decreasing serum GH concentrations in any of the cats. Eleven of the 14 cats were euthanized or died four to 42 months (median survival time, 20.5 months) after the onset of acromegaly because of renal failure (n = 2), congestive heart failure (n = 1), concomitant renal failure and congestive heart failure (n = 3), progressive neurologic signs (n = 2), persistent anorexia and lethargy of unknown cause (n ‐ 1), the owner's unwillingness to treat the diabetes mellitus (n = 1), or unknown causes (n = 1). Results of necropsy examination in ten cats revealed a large pituitary acidophil adenoma (n = 10), marked left ventricular and septal hypertrophy (n = 7), dilated cardiomyopathy (n = 1), arthropathy affecting the shoulder, elbow, or stifle (n = 5), and glomerulopathy characterized by expansion of the mesangial matrix and variable periglomerular fi‐brosis (n = 10). (Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine 1990; 4:192–201)
Intramedullary Spinal Cord Metastasis in the Dog
Authors: Waters David J. , Hayden David W.
Published: March 2010

Intramedullary spinal cord metastasis (ISCM) was diagnosed in three dogs with signs of myelopathy. The clinicopathologic features of ISCM in these and previously reported cases in the veterinary and human literature were compared. Myelopathic signs associated with ISCM may be the initial clinical manifestation of malignancy or may develop in the patient with known malignancy. Pain, a frequent manifestation of extradural compressive myelopathy, is not a consistent feature of ISCM. Survey spinal radiographs are usually unrewarding and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) abnormalities nonspecific. Myelog‐raphy is indicated to differentiate intramedullary lesions from more common extradural compressive lesions. Myelographic interpretation may be difficult, and intramedullary tumors must be differentiated from spinal cord edema or hemorrhage. Evidence of widely disseminated malignancy should increase suspicion for ISCM; hemangiosarcoma and lymphosarcoma should be considered the most likely histo‐logic types. CSF cytology may be helpful in the diagnosis of patients with lymphosarcoma. Prognosis is poor due to the frequent presence of disseminated disease, although temporary response to corticoste‐roid therapy may be achieved. More aggressive therapeutic approaches, such as spinal irradiation and microsurgical resection of metastases, have been advocated in humans but have not been reported in the dog. Although it is an uncommon complication of systemic malignancy, ISCM should be considered in the differential diagnosis of myelopathy in the dog. (Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine 1990; 4:207–215)
Visual Evoked Potentials in the Clinically Normal Dog
Authors: Strain George M. , Jackson Rose M. , Tedford Bruce L.
Published: March 2010

Visual evoked potentials (VEP) in response to flashes of white light were recorded from 15 adult beagles of both sexes to provide a normative data base. Separate recordings were taken by stimulating each eye of every dog. Responses were recorded from a needle electrode placed over the nuchal crest referenced to an electrode just caudal to the eyes. Five positive and negative peaks were present in each VEP; P1, N1, P2, N2, and P3. Peak P2was the most prominent. Mean (± standard deviation (SD]) latencies for peaks P1, N1, P2, N2, and P3were 14.3 ± 2.4, 29.2 ± 2.2, 54.5 ± 7.4, 78.0 ± 13.1, and 98.1 ± 12.6 msec, respectively. Peak‐to‐peak mean amplitudes ranged from 5.88 to 13.30 μV. Recordings were accomplished without sedation, anesthesia, or mydriatic drugs. (Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine 1990; 4:222–225)
The Role of Viruses in Feline Lower Urinary Tract Disease
Authors: Kruger John M. , Osborne Carl A.
Published: March 2010

Viruses have been implicated as causative agents in the etiopathogenesis ofsome forms of feline lower urinary tract disease (LUTD). This hypothesis was supported by isolation of feline calicivirus, bovine herpesvirus 4 (strain FeCAHV), and feline syncytia‐forming virus from cats with naturally occurring LUTD, and by experimental studies of induced viral urinary tract infection. Results ofearly clinical studies yielded contradictory results concerning the role of viruses in feline LUTD. However, recent detection of bovine herpesvirus 4 antibodies in feline serum samples and discovery of calicivirus‐iike particles in crystalline/matrix urethral plugs obtained from cats with naturally occurring LUTD, suggests the need to reexamine the etiopathologic role of viruses using contemporary methods of virus identification and localization.
Milrinone
Authors: Keister D. Mark , Kittleson Mark D. , Bonagura John D. , Pipers Frank S. , Knauer Kenneth W.
Published: March 2010

Milrinone, a positive inotropic drug with vasodilating properties, was administered at doses of 0.5 to 1 mg/kg orally twice daily to 29 dogs with moderateto severe congestive heart failure (CHF). Significant echocardiographic improvement in ventricular systolic function was observed after 3 days of administration of milrinone and at the patients' last echocardiographic observation (day 21in 25 subjects, day 7 in 2 subjects, and day 3 in 2 subjects). Echocardiographic shortening fraction at the initial measurement had a median increase of 6.14%(P< 0.001), and for the last observation a 2.83% increase (P< 0.005). Most patients also showed improvement in their clinical signs as assessed by the veterinarian (72%) and by owner's evaluation (81%). No consistent problem or adverse reaction to milrinone was observed, except for a small number ofclinically manageable ventricular dysrhythmias. Milrinone appears in this trialto be effective for the treatment of advanced CHF in dogs.
Acquired Myasthenia Gravis
Authors: Shelton G. Diane , Willard Michael D. , III George H. Cardinet , Lindstrom Jon
Published: March 2010

Serum samples from 152 dogs with a clinical diagnosis of idiopathic megaesophagus without detectable generalized muscle weakness were tested for the presence of antibodies to acetylcholine receptors by immunoprecipitation radioimmunoassay. Positive serum antibody titers (mean, 3.1 nmoL/L; range, 0.77–30 nmoL/L; reference values < 0.6 nmoL/L) were found in 40 dogs (26%), with German Shepherd dogs (8/25, 32%) and Golden Retrievers (7/20, 35%) having a greater percentage of positive submissions. By immunocytochemical methods, localization of immune complexes at the neuromuscular junction after incubation of serum with normal canine muscle was documented in an additional 17 cases (11% of all samples submitted) that did not have increased antibody titers to acetylcholine receptors. Of the 40 seropositive dogs, 17 (48%) had a clinical improvement or remission of clinical signs associated with decreasing AChR antibody titers. Idiopathic megaesophagus has been associated with a poor prognosis; however, this study demonstrates that a large percentage of the dogs have myasthenia gravis and that with supportive treatment, the clinical signs may improve or resolve.
Pulmonary Arteriography and Hemodynamics During Feline Heartworm Disease
Authors: Rawlings Clarence A.
Published: March 2010

The ability of aspirin to block arterial disease and thromboembolism of the pulmonary arteries was studied in heartworm‐infected cats. Three groups of cats were transplanted with four heartworms per cat and studied. One group of eight cats (aspirin group) received aspirin (97.5 mg, twice a week) for the five‐month infection and another group of eight cats served as the nontreated control group (nontreated group). Based upon the results of the first two groups, the third group (adjusted aspirin group) of six cats was studied in which the aspirin dosage was adjusted in order to maintain an inhibition ofin vitroplatelet aggregation. Cats were studied by nonselective pulmonary arteriograms before heartworm transplantation and by selective arteriograms, aortograms, and pulmonary hemodynamics five months after heartworm transplant. Pulmonary hypertension, (mean pulmonary artery pressures > 16 mmHg), was discovered in three cats with one cat in each group. There were no differences in the mean pulmonary artery pressure or vascular resistance between the groups. Many of the arterial diameters for the nontreated and aspirin groups were greater after the five‐month infection than before heartworm infection. All of the postinfection caudal arteries were tortuous and had aneurysms. Some of the caudal lung lobes had perfused areas that appeared to have a hypervascular microvasculature. The proportion of obstructed right and left distal caudal pulmonary arteries and the resulting nonperfused area of the caudal lung lobe in the nontreated and aspirin treated groups were each greater than in the adjusted aspirin group. Prominent bronchial arteries and arterial circulation were present in three of six of the nontreated cats, five of seven of the aspirin‐treated cats, and two of five adjusted aspirin cats, that had diagnostic aortograms. Aspirin given at a standard dosage of 97.5 mg twice a week did not reduce the arteriographically demonstrated arterial disease, the pulmonary hypertension, or the obstruction of caudal lobar arteries by thromboembolism and exuberant villiis proliferation. The adjusted aspirin dosage, which required daily administration in some cats, appeared to have limited benefits. Since this dosage was individualized for each cat and near the toxic dosage for cats, we are reluctant to recommend aspirin in cats with heartworm disease. Nonselective pulmonary arteriograms, as done in this study, can be useful in cats with suspected heartworm infection and radiographic signs, but which have negative test results for microfilaria and ELISA‐antigen.
Morphologic Changes in the Lungs of Cats Experimentally Infected WithDirofilaria immitis
Authors: Rawlings Clarence A. , Farrell Robert L. , Mahood Richard M.
Published: March 2010

The morphologic response of the pulmonary arteries and lungs in cats was studied after a five month heartworm infection produced by transplantation of four adult heartworms/cat. One group of seven heartworm infected cats was not treated, another group of seven cats was treated with 97.5 mg of aspirin given twice a week, and the third group of six cats was given aspirin at a sufficient dosage to blockin vitroplatelet aggregation throughout the study. A fourth group of eight noninfected cats served as controls. Five months after heartworm infection, the cats were euthanized and the lungs perfusion fixed for light microscopy and scanning electron microscopy of the pulmonary arterial surfaces.

All cats in the three heartworm‐infected groups had live heartworms and the typical pulmonary arterial changes of heartworm disease at necropsy. The arterial surfaces, as viewed with scanning electron microscopy, had villus proliferations that were more numerous and exuberant than similar infections in dogs. Mean percentage of arterial surface involvement with villus proliferation of the nontreated heartworm infected cats was 67.3%; the aspirin treated cats, 73.8%; and the adjusted aspirin treated cats, 75.9%. The villi were myointimal proliferations in the small and medium‐sized arteries. The more elastic arteries had a predominance of fibromuscular proliferation. All heartworm infected cats had arterial muscular hypertrophy of the small arteries, in contrast to only three of eight of the nonheartworm infected cats. The caudal lobar arteries were frequently obstructed with either villus proliferation, thrombi, and/or dead heartworms. The muscular arteries had branches with marked dilation, a condition associated with pulmonary hypertension in man. However, only three cats, one in each group, had pulmonary hypertension. The adjusted aspirin group had less arteriosclerosis and thrombosis than the other two heartworm‐infected groups. There were no statistical differences between the heartworm groups with respect to arterial muscular hypertrophy, myointimal proliferation with and without eosinophilia, vein‐like dilations of the muscular arterial branches, and percentage of arterial surface with villus proliferation.

Aspirin, when given at platelet inhibiting doses, reduced only a portion of the pulmonary response to heartworms in these cats. It was presumed that the inflammatory response to heartworms in the cat is so severe that trophic factors other than those released by platelets can also produce arterial disease. Based upon this study, aspirin is not recommended for heartworm disease in the cat.
A Comparison of Inulin, Paraaminohippuric Acid, and Endogenous Creatinine Clearances as Measures of Renal Function in Neonatal Foals
Authors: Brewer Barbara D. , Clement Stephane F. , Lotz W. Stephen , Gronwall Ronald
Published: March 2010

The glomerular filtration rate (GFR) was estimated in eight full‐term neonatal foals by the single injection inulin plasma clearance method at two days of age, the continuous infusion plasma and urinary clearance methods at three days of age, and the 12‐hour endogenous creatinine clearance method at four days of age. The effective renal plasma flow (ERPF) was estimated simultaneously by the single injection para‐aminohippuric acid (PAH) plasma clearance method in the eight two‐day old foals and the continuous PAH infusion plasma and urinary clearance method in the eight three‐day old foals. The GFR (±1 SEM), as determined from the single injection plasma clearance method, was 2.30 ± 0.34 mL/kg/min; by continuous infusion plasma clearance 2.56 ± 0.30 mL/kg/min; by continuous infusion urinary clearance 2.82 ± 0.32 mL/kg/min; and by 12‐hour endogenous creatinine clearance 2.81 ± 0.55 mL/kg/min. Effective renal plasma flow (±1 SEM) measured by the single injection plasma clearance method was 15.22 ±1.5 mL/kg/min, by continuous infusion plasma clearance was 18.21 ± 2.0 mL/kg/min, and by continuous infusion urinary clearance it was 11.95 ± 1.9 mL/kg/min. The results of these methods were not statistically different. On a per kilogram body weight basis, the full‐term neonatal foal's GFR and ERPF was determined to be comparable with adult equine GFR and ERPF.
Acute Hemolytic Transfusion Reaction in an Abyssinian Cat With Blood Type B
Authors: Giger Urs , Akol Kelly G.
Published: March 2010

After receiving a transfusion with unmatched blood, an anemic Abyssinian cat developed an acute hemolytic transfusion reaction. Similar to many other purebred cats, the recipient had type B blood with strong serum anti‐A alloantibodies, whereas the donor had blood type A. Subsequent transfusions with type B blood proved effective and without adverse reactions. This case of a clinical A‐B incompatibility reaction emphasizes the need for blood typing and/or crossmatching prior to transfusing cats.
Severe Neutropenia Associated With Griseofulvin Therapy in Cats With Feline Immunodeficiency Virus Infection
Authors: Shelton Grady H. , Grant Chris K. , Linenberger Michael L. , Abkowitz Janis L.
Published: March 2010

Griseofulvin administration was associated with the development of absolute neutropenia in six of seven (86%) cats with feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) infection. The neutropenia was severe (<400 neutrophils//il) in four of the six affected cats, and one cat died from sepsis. Neutrophil counts returned to baseline values within 15 days after drug withdrawal in all surviving cats. No symptoms or hemato‐logic abnormalities were observed in four normal (FIV‐seronegative) cats treated with the same lot of griseofulvin at equivalent doses. Neutropenia recurred in two of two FIV‐seropositive cats upon griseofulvin rechallenge. Cats with FIV infections appear to be at increased risk for griseofulvin‐associated neutropenia. This phenomenon may be analogous to the increased frequency of antibiotic‐induced neutropenias observed in humans infected with the human immunodeficiency virus.
Hemostatic Abnormalities in Dogs With Hemangiosarcoma
Authors: Hammer A. S. , Couto C. G. , Swardson C. , Getzy D.
Published: March 2010

The hemostasis profiles of 24 dogs with histologically confirmed hemangiosarcoma were prospectively evaluated. Microangiopathic hemolysis was defined as the presence of schistocytes; disseminated intravascular coagulation was defined as 1) thrombocytopenia, 2) fibrin(ogen) degradation products > 10 μg/mL, 3) prolongation of one or more coagulation times (activated partial thromboplastin time or one‐stage prothrombin time) by greater than 25% of the control, 4) fragmented red blood cells (≥ 1 + based on a semiquantitative grading scale), and 5) fibrinogen ≤ 80 mg/dL. Three of the five criteria listed above had to be met for disseminated intravascular coagulation to be diagnosed. Fifty percent of the dogs were considered to have disseminated intravascular coagulation at presentation. Thrombocytopenia was present in 75% of the dogs and was the most common abnormality. The mean platelet count was 137,800/μL. Twenty‐five percent of the dogs died as a result of the hemostatic abnormalities. Only 12% of the dogs had microangiopathic hemolysis without other evidence of disseminated intravascular coagulation. Hemostatic abnormalities are present in many dogs with hemangiosarcoma at the initial clinical presentation and represent an important clinical finding.
Triglyceride, Insulin, and Cortisol Responses of Ponies to Fasting and Dexamethasone Administration
Authors: Freestone J. F. , Wolfsheimer K. J. , Ford R. B. , Church G. , Bessin R.
Published: March 2010

Ponies were evaluated for their response to feed withholding and exogenous administration of corticosteroids (dexamethasone 0.04 mg/kg intramuscular |IM|) in an attempt to reproduce the hyperlipemia syndrome. Because insulin resistance has been associated with hyperlipemia, all ponies were initially evaluated for insulin response to an oral glucose load and normal dexamethasone suppression of serum Cortisol. Four ponies were identified as hyperinsulinemic reflecting insulin resistance. All ponies had suppressed Cortisol concentrations following dexamethasone administration. Feed withdrawal resulted in hypertriglyceridemia by 48 hours in all ponies. Very low density lipoprotein‐triglyceride (VLDL) fraction was primarily elevated. The administration of dexamethasone failed to increase the degree of triglyceridemia. Although insulin resistance has been proposed as the likely cause of the hypertriglyceridemia in ponies, in this study four of eight ponies were considered to have normal insulin responses and yet still developed hypertriglyceridemia.
Exercise Induced Alterations in the Serum Muscle Enzymes, Erythrocyte Potassium and Plasma Constituents Following Feed Withdrawal or Furosemide and Sodium Bicarbonate Administration in the Horse
Authors: Freestone J. F. , Gossett K. , Carlson G. P. , Church G.
Published: March 2010

Six thoroughbreds were used in each of three trials to examine the effect of potassium depletion on exercise‐associated muscle damage. Horses were exercised after a control period (Treatment 1), a 72‐hour fast (Treatment 2), and furosemide and sodium bicarbonate (Treatment 3). During the preexercise period, feed withdrawal for 72 hours caused decreases in body weight, plasma sodium, chloride, and serum calcium. There were no changes in plasma potassium, erythrocyte potassium, or serum creatine phosphokinase (CK) activity. Furosemide and sodium bicarbonate administration resulted in a decrease in plasma potassium, chloride, serum calcium, and magnesium in the pre‐exercise period. Erythrocyte potassium and serum CK activity were unchanged. Body weight initially decreased following furosemide and sodium bicarbonate and then increased upon access to water. In all three treatment groups plasma sodium, potassium, L‐Iactate, serum calcium, and magnesium were increased immediately following exercise. There was a significant increase (P <0.05) in serum CK activity in the furosemide and sodium bicarbonate‐treated horses compared to control and withholding feed treatment groups by 30 minutes following exercise. Erythrocyte potassium was decreased immediately following exercise in the furosemide and sodium bicarbonate group but not in the other treatment groups. Potassium depletion may play a role in exercise‐induced muscle damage but could not be implicated as the sole cause of the serum CK activity increase in this study.
The Effect of Experimental Cystitis and Iatrogenic Blood Contamination on the Urine Protein/Creatinine Ratio in the Dog
Authors: Bagley Rodney S. , Center Sharon A. , Lewis Robert M. , Shin Sang , Dougherty Susan A. , Randolph John F. , Erb Hollis
Published: March 2010

The effect of experimentally induced cystitis and iatrogenic blood contamination on the urine protein/creatinine ratio (U P/C) was evaluated in 17 dogs. Before they were included in the study, all dogs were judged to be healthy on the basis of physical examination, serum concentrations of urea nitrogen and creatinine, complete urinalysis, and a U P/C less than 0.4. A single urine sample was contaminated with increasing quantities of canine fresh whole blood (PCV = 42%; total protein = 6.2 g/dl). When added blood was equal to or greater than 25% of the total urine sample volume, the U P/C exceeded 3.5, a finding consistent with nephrotic range proteinuria. When added blood was 10% of the total urine sample volume, the U P/C was less than 1.8. Eleven Beagles underwent routine laparotomy during which a cystotomy was done. The median U P/Cs on postoperative days 1 and 2 were significantly increased compared with preoperative values (P <0.05); no U P/C exceeded 2.0. Renal biopsies performed on postoperative day 3 eliminated renal proteinuria as a source of urine protein. Five dogs had bacterial cystitis experimentally induced. At 72 and 96 hours after bacterial inoculation, the median U P/Cs were significantly increased (P <0.05); individual values ranged from 1.5 to 40.8. Renal biopsies performed between 5 and 6 days after inoculation eliminated renal proteinuria as a source of urine protein. Cytologic evaluation of urine sediment in each group did not correlate with the magnitude of the increase in the U P/C. The U P/C significantly increased in each model of lower urinary tract inflammation. Apparently, an increased U P/C in a urine sample having cytologic evidence of inflammation or heavy blood contamination cannot be used to distinguish pathologic renal from postrenal proteinuria.
Endotoxin Concentrations Measured by a Chromogenic Assay in Portal and Peripheral Venous Blood in Ten Dogs With Portosystemic Shunts
Authors: Peterson Steven L. , Koblik Philip D. , Whiting Pamela G. , Breznock Eugene M.
Published: March 2010

A chromogenic Limulus amebocyte lysate assay was used to measure portal and peripheral venous endotoxin concentrations in ten medically managed dogs undergoing surgery for correction of a single extrahepatic portosystemic shunt. In all dogs, both peripheral and portal venous blood samples were obtained at the time of surgical manipulation of the anomalous vessel. In six dogs, peripheral venous samples were obtained an average of 8.0 months after surgery. Five physically normal dogs without biochemical or histologic evidence of liver disease served as controls. Data analysis failed to demonstrate significant differences in peripheral and portal venous endotoxin concentrations between the control and study groups. Postoperatively five of six dogs showed a measurable reduction in peripheral venous endotoxin concentration over intraoperatively obtained values, but the differences were not statistically significant (P= 0.06). Based on results of this study it was concluded that systemic endotoxemia was not present in dogs with a single extrahepatic portosystemic shunt that were medically stable prior to surgery.
Congenital Tremor With Spongy Degeneration of the Central Nervous System in Two Puppies
Authors: Cachin Martine , Vandevelde Marc
Published: March 2010

Two crossbred puppies exhibited a generalized tremor that was accentuated by excitement or voluntary movement. Hypermetria was also present. Neurohistologic examination showed a bilaterally symmetric spongy condition, predominantly of the gray matter in the brain and spinal cord. These two dogs were different, both in their clinical presentation and histologic appearance, from other reported cases of spongy degeneration. The clinicopathologic correlation between spongy degeneration and tremor is unclear. Spongy degeneration should be included in the differential diagnosis of tremor syndromes in puppies.
Endotoxemia in Horses: A Review of Cellular and Humoral Mediators Involved in its Pathogenesis
Authors: Morris Debra Deem
Published: March 2010

Endotoxemia remains the leading cause of death in horses, being intimately involved in the pathogenesis of gastrointestinal disorders that cause colic and neonatal foal septicemia. Endotoxins, normally present within the bowel, gain access to the blood across damaged intestinal mucosa, or endotoxemia occurs when gram negative organisms proliferate in tissues. Endotoxins are removed from the circulation by the mononuclear phagocyte system, and the response of mononuclear phagocytes to these Iipopolysaccharides (LPS) play an important role in determining the severity of clinical disease. Macrophages become highly activated for enhanced secretory, phagocytic and cidal functions by LPS. Macrophage‐derived cytokines are responsible for many of the pathophysiologic consequences of endotoxemia. The arachidonic acid metabolites, prostacyclin and thromboxane A2likely mediate early hemodynamic dysfunction and the leukotrienes may potentiate tissue ischemia during endotoxemia. Interleukin 1 (IL‐1) induces fever and is responsible for the inflammatory cascade, which constitutes the acute phase response. Tumor necrosis factor (TNF), an important proximal mediator of the effects of LPS, acts to initiate events and formation of other molecules that affect shock and tissue injury. Systemic administration of TNF produces most of the physiologic derangements that are associated with endotoxemia and antibodies that are directed against TNF significantly reduce LPS‐induced mortality in experimental animals. In response to endotoxins, mononuclear phagocytes express thromboplastin‐like procoagulant activity (PCA), which initiates microvascular thrombosis. Both II‐1 and TNF induce PCA expression, creating a positive feedback loop for LPS‐induced coagulopathy. A macrophage‐derived platelet activating factor contributes to coagulation dysfunction and further stimulates arachidonic acid metabolism. The ultimate consequences of endotoxemia are multiple system organ failure and death. The numerous feedback loops and intertwining cascades of mediators during endotoxemia defy simplistic methods of treatment. The optimal therapy likely involves methods to alter the generation of inflammatory mediators by mononuclear phagocytes.
Amputation and Cisplatin for Treatment of Canine Osteosarcoma
Authors: Straw Rodney C. , Withrow Stephen J. , Richter Sherri L. , Powers Barbara E. , Klein Mary Kay , Postorino Nancy C. , LaRue Susan M. , Ogilvie Gregory K. , Vail David M. , Morrison Wallace B. , McGee M. , Dickinson K.
Published: March 2010

Seventy‐one dogs with histologically confirmed appendicular osteosarcoma were evaluated. Seventeen dogs were treated with amputation and two dogs received postoperative doses of IV cisplatin given 21 days apart (group 1). Nineteen dogs were treated with IV cisplatin 21 days before amputation, with a second dose given immediately after amputation (group 2). Thirty‐five dogs were treated by amputation of the affected limb with no chemotherapy (group 3). The median disease‐free interval for group 1 was 226 days, and 177 days for group 2. This was not significantly different. The median survival time was 262 days for group 1, 282 days for group 2 and 119 days for group 3. Group 1 and 2 dogs had survival times that were significantly longer than for dogs in group 3. Two IV courses of cisplatin given before or after amputation appears to improve the survival of dogs with osteosarcoma.
Plasma Taurine Concentrations and M‐mode Echocardiographic Measures in Healthy Cats and in Cats with Dilated Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Sisson D. David , Knight David H. , Helinski Cecelia , Fox Philip R. , Bond Betsy R. , Harpster Neil K. , Moise N. Sydney , Kaplan Paul M. , Bonagura John D. , Czarnecki Gail , Schaeffer David J.
Published: March 2010

M‐mode echocardiography was completed and plasma taurine concentrations were determined in 79 healthy cats and 77 cats with dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM). In healthy cats, a relationship was not observed between plasma taurine concentrations and any M‐mode echocardiographic measurement. End‐systolic and end‐diastolic cardiac chamber dimensions were larger; wall thickness measures were smaller; and calculations of fractional shortening were less in cats with DCM than in healthy cats. Plasma taurine concentrations < 30 nmol/mL were detected in 7/79 healthy cats and in 52/77 cats with DCM. Of the 52 cats with DCM and an initial plasma taurine concentration < 30 nmol/mL, 23 died or were euthanized during the first post‐treatment week, 7 were lost to further study, and 22 improved after taurine supplementation. Of the 25 cats with DCM and an initial plasma taurine concentration > 30 nmol/mL, 9 died or were euthanatized during the first post‐treatment week, and 9 were lost to further study. Two cats did not improve, of which one died and one was euthanatized 4 to 8 weeks after initiation of taurine supplementation. Five cats with a plasma taurine concentration > 30 nmol/mL improved after taurine supplementation. Myocardial function subsequently deteriorated in three of these cats. Two of the three cats had signs of congestive heart failure redevelop.
Thoracic Radiographic Features of Silicosis in 19 Horses
Authors: Berry Clifford R. , O'Brien Timothy R. , Madigan John E. , Hager David A.
Published: March 2010

Clinical records and thoracic radiographs of 19 horses with a confirmed pathologic diagnosis of silicosis were reviewed. These horses had histories of varying degrees of chronic weight loss, exercise intolerance, and respiratory distress. At the time of presentation, two horses were asymptomatic. Ten horses were geldings and nine were female. The mean age of the 19 horses was 10.7 ± 5.5 years. Fourteen horses were identified as being from the Monterey‐Carmel Peninsula of midcoastal California. An abnormal, structured interstitial pulmonary pattern was identified on thoracic radiographs in each horse. The interstitial pulmonary changes were classified as miliary (13 horses), reticulonodular (4), or linear interstitial (2), and were best visualized dorsally and caudodorsally. In addition to the abnormal interstitial pulmonary pattern, areas of pulmonary consolidation were evident caudodorsally in seven horses. Other thoracic radiographic features included: hilar lymphadenopathy (4 horses), pleural effusion/thickening (4), cranial mediastinal lymphadenopathy (2), hyperinflation (1), and a discrete pulmonary mass (1). Necropsy findings in eight horses and results of lung biopsies in an additional five horses showed a diffuse, multifocal, granulomatous pneumonia with areas of pulmonary fibrosis. Cellular infiltrates included predominantly macrophages with intracellular and/or extracellular crystalline material, occasional lymphocytes, and giant cells. Similar cellular changes were also identified, during necropsy, in the hilar and tracheobronchial lymph nodes in each of the eight horses, although gross enlargement of the lymph nodes was present in only six horses. The radiographic and pathologic findings of these 19 horses are consistent with chronic or the accelerated forms of silicosis that are recognized in humans.
Unilateral and Bilateral Brainstem Auditory‐Evoked Response Abnormalities in 900 Dalmatian Dogs
Authors: Holliday Terrell A. , Nelson Holly J. , Williams D. Colette , Willits Neil
Published: March 2010

In a survey of 900 Dalmatian dogs, brainstem auditory‐evoked responses (BAER) and clinical observations were used to determine the incidence and sex distribution of bilateral and unilateral BAER abnormalities and their association with heterochromia iridis (HI). To assess the efficacy of BAER testing in guiding breeding programs, data from 749 dogs (subgroup A), considered to be a sample of the population at large, were compared with data from a subgroup (subgroup B; n=151) in which selection of breeding stock had been based on BAER testing from the beginning of the 4‐year survey. Brainstem auditory‐evoked responses were elicited by applying click stimuli unilaterally, while applying a white noise masking sound to the contralateral ear. Under these conditions, BAER were either normal, unilaterally absent, or bilaterally absent. Dogs with bilaterally absent BAER were clinically deaf; dogs with unilaterally absent BAER were not clinically deaf but appeared dependent on their BAER‐normal ears for their auditory‐cued behavior. Dogs with unilaterally absent BAER often were misidentified as normal by uninformed observers. Among the 900 dogs, 648 (72.0%) were normal, 189 (21.0%) had unilateral absence of BAER, and 63 (7.0%) had bilateral absence of BAER or were clinically deaf and assumed to have bilaterally absent BAER (n=4). Total incidence in the population sampled was assumed to be higher, because some bilaterally affected dogs that would have been members of subgroup A undoubtedly did not come to our attention. Among females, 24.0% were unilaterally abnormal and 8.2% were bilaterally abnormal whereas, among males, 17.8% were unilaterally abnormal and 5.7% were bilaterally abnormal. These differences were significant (P=0.014). Dogs with grossly visible HI (any degree) had a significantly higher incidence of abnormality than dogs with completely pigmented iridial stromas (P=0.0001). Females had a significantly higher incidence of HI than did males (P=0.038). Subgroup B had a significantly lower incidence of BAER abnormality than did subgroup A (P=0.027); the difference was not attributable to subgroup differences associated with gender or HI status. (Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine 1992; 6:166–174)
Insulin‐Secreting Pancreatic (Islet Cell) Carcinoma in a Cat
Authors: Hawks Darren , Peterson Mark E. , Hawkins Kathleen L. , Rosebury Wendy S.
Published: March 2010

A functional, insulin‐secreting pancreatic (islet cell) carcinoma was diagnosed in a 17‐year‐old male Siamese cat. Diagnosis was made on the basis of clinical signs (i.e., seizures and stupor) that resolved temporarily after correction of hypoglycemia with feeding or intravenous administration of glucose, the finding of an inappropriately increased serum insulin concentration in the face of hypoglycemia, and prolonged resolution of hypoglycemia after surgical removal of the tumor. Primary islet cell tumor of the pancreas was confirmed by biopsy. The cat died 18 months later, and necropsy revealed metastases to regional lymph nodes and liver. Specimens of the tumor and metastatic lesions both stained positively for insulin. (Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine 1992; 193–196)
Unusual Selective Immunoglobulin Deficiency in an Arabian Foal
Authors: Boy Mary Gardiner , Zhang Chonghui , Antczak Douglas F. , Hamir Amir N. , Whitlock Robert H.
Published: March 2010

A 10‐month‐old Arabian foal was evaluated for a suspected immunoglobulin (Ig) M deficiency. Decreased to nondetectable concentrations of IgM, IgA, and IgG (T), and a normal concentration of IgC, were present. Results of in vitro testing of the blood lymphocyte blastogenesis showed a weak response to the B‐cell mitogen, lipopolysaccharide (LPS), but normal responses to T‐cell mitogens. Results of postmortem examination showed synovitis of the left tibiotarsal and both scapulohumeral joints. Atrophy and edema of the lymph nodes and lymphocyte depletion in the thymus and spleen were seen. A subacute inflammatory infiltrate was observed in the kidney, synovium, liver, and brain. Etiologic agents were not identified. This case represents a previously unreported form of immunodeficiency disease in the horse. (Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine 1992; 6:201–205)
Immunosuppressive Therapy in the Treatment of Immune‐mediated Disease
Authors: Miller Ellen
Published: March 2010

Immune‐mediated diseases represent some of the most frustrating types of disorders that are diagnosed and treated in veterinary medicine. Drug‐induced immunosuppression is an attempt to control the aberrant immune response against self antigens but the immunosuppression can result in sepsis or other unacceptable adverse effects. If the pathophysiology of immune‐mediated and autoimmune disease is considered, the immune response can be divided into several components and attempts can be made to selectively deal with each component separately. The components of the immune response that can be manipulated by therapy include antibodies, effector cells, the mononuclear phagocytic system, and the peripheral manifestations of disease. This article reviews the therapy of immune‐mediated and autoimmune diseases based on a pathophysiologic approach and discusses conventional as well as current therapies in the treatment of these devastating diseases. (Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine 1992; 6:206–213)
Effect of Breed and Body Weight on Echocardiographic Values in Four Breeds of Dogs of Differing Somatotype
Authors: Morrison Susan A. , Moise N. Sydney , Scarlett Janet , Mohammed Hussni , Yeager Amy E.
Published: March 2010

Eighty normal dogs of four morphologically disparate breeds (Pembroke Welsh Corgi, Miniature Poodle, Afghan Hound, Golden Retriever) (twenty of each breed), were studied by echocardiography to determine the importance of breed and weight in establishing normal echocardiographic reference ranges. Echocardiographic measurements included left‐ventricular chamber dimension at systole and end‐diastole, right‐ventricular chamber dimension at end‐diastole, interventricular septal thickness at systole and end‐diastole, left‐ventricular free wall thickness at systole and end‐diastole, E‐point septal separation, aortic root dimension at end‐diastole, left atrial dimension, and fractional shortening. Analyses of covariance indicated that for all measurements except right‐ventricular chamber dimension, the means were significantly different among breeds, after the differences in weight were taken into account. Echocardiographic measurements are variable even within the same breed. Breed must be considered in establishing echocardiographic measurement reference ranges. Echocardiographic values for each breed are presented. (Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine 1992; 6:220–224)
Diagnosis of Cauda Equina Abnormalities By Using Electromyography, Discography, and Epidurography in Dogs
Authors: Sisson Allen F. , LeCouteur Richard A. , Ingram James T. , Park Richard D. , Child Georgina
Published: March 2010

Electromyography (EMG), L7‐S1 discography and epidurography were investigated in 15 dogs with clinical signs of cauda equina dysfunction and in 7 control dogs without such clinical signs. Electromyography of paraspinal and pelvic limb muscles was done in 13 of 15 affected dogs. An L7‐Sl discogram followed by an epidurogram was performed in all 22 dogs using 20%iopamidol. Results of discograms, epidurograms, and gross necropsy examinations were normal in six of seven control dogs. The one dog in which these studies were abnormal had a mild L7‐S1 disc protrusion that did not result in nerve root compression at necropsy. Electromyographic analysis was 100%accurate in predicting the presence or absence of cauda equina disease. None of the results of discograms were falsely negative. Twelve of 15 discograms in clinically affected dogs indicated dorsal disc protrusion, but 2 of these protrusions were found to be noncompressive at surgery (13%error). Abnormal epidurograms occurred in 9 of 15 clinically affected dogs. There was one false positive and two false negatives (20%error). Electromyography was a sensitive screening technique for the presence of cauda equina disease. Discography may be more sensitive for detection of L7‐S1 disc protrusion than epidurography. An abnormal radiographic contrast study of the cauda equina may only be useful when combined with an abnormal EMG. (Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine 1992; 6:253–263)
Effect of a Histamine H2Type Receptor Antagonist (WY 45, 727) on the Healing of Gastric Ulcers in Ponies
Authors: MacAllister Charles G. , Sangiah Subbiah , Mauromoustakos Andy
Published: March 2010

Using video gastroscopy, the efficacy of a Histamine‐H2type receptor antagonist (WY 45, 727) was investigated in young ponies with spontaneous and experimentally induced gastric ulcers. Oral administration of WY 45,727 at 2 mg/kg and 10 mg/kg of body weight every 12 hours for 14 days resulted in complete healing of spontaneous gastric ulcers in the non‐glandular portion of the stomach in 2/5 (40%) and 3/4 (75%) of the ponies, respectively, compared (P>0.05) to 0/5 (0%)placebo‐treated ponies. After intramuscular administration of flunixin meglumine at 1.5 mg/kg body weight every 8 hours for 6 days, 9/18 ponies had ulcers in the non‐glandular portion of the stomach. Oral administration of WY 45,727 at 10 mg/kg body weight every 12 hours for 14 days resulted in complete healing of the non‐glandular gastric ulcers in 3/4 (75%) compared with (P> 0.05) 1/5 (20%) placebo‐treated ponies. This study indicates that 1) the occurrence of subclinical ulcers may be common in young ponies; 2) flunixin meglumine at 1.5 mg/kg intramuscularly every 8 hours for 6 days may result in ulcers of the non‐glandular stomach in ponies; and 3) WY 45,727, a histaminergic H2type receptor antagonist could be of value in the therapeutic management of ulcers in the non‐glandular stomach of foals and adult horses. (Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine 1992; 6:271–275)
Lymphedema: Etiopathogenesis
Authors: Fossum Theresa W. , Miller Matthew W.
Published: March 2010

Two main factors have impeded the progress of work on the lymphatic vessels…, namely lack of methods of investigation and lack of interest. The latter has been partly due to the paucity of efective therapeutic methods to deal with lymphatic vessel disorders.
Increased Serum Growth Hormone Concentration in Feline Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Kittleson Mark D. , Pion Paul D. , DeLellis Laura A. , Mekhamer Yousry , Dybdal Noel , Lothrop Clinton D.
Published: March 2010

Serum growth hormone concentration was measured by radioimmunoassay in 31 cats with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, 38 normal cats, and 35 cats with other cardiac disease. Cats with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy had a significantly increased serum growth hormone concentration when compared with normal cats and cats with other cardiac disease. The serum growth hormone concentration in cats with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy was less than that previously reported in cats with growth hormone secreting pituitary tumors. Pituitary tumors were not identified in eight of the cats with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy examined at necropsy. An increased serum growth hormone concentration may be measured in cats with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy but it is unclear if the increased serum growth hormone concentration is a cause or effect of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy. (Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine 1992; 6:320–324)
Neospora caninurn Infectionin English Springer Spaniel Littermates
Authors: Cuddon Paul , Lin Dah‐Sheng , Bowman Dwight D. , Lindsay David S. , Miller Timothy K. , Duncan Ian D. , DeLahunta Alexander , Cummings John , Suter Maja , Cooper Barry , King John M. , Dubey J.P.
Published: March 2010

Progressive paraparesis developed in four male English Springer Spaniel pups from a litter of five during the first 10 weeks of life. Two of the pups, which had the earliest onset of neurologic signs, were euthanatized without further workup. However, a detailed investigation was completed on the remaining two littermates at 12 weeks of age. Both pups had progressive paraparesis for 3 to 4 weeks before presentation, with one dog developing subsequent asymmetric pelvic limb extensor rigidity. Based on results from neurologic examination, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis, electrophysiology, and muscle/ nerve biopsy, a presumptive diagnosis of protozoal polyradiculitis and polymyositis was made. Necropsy of the most severely affected pup confirmed the clinical diagnosis of inflammatory nerve root and muscle disease but no organisms were found. To increase the potential yield of organisms, the second pup was placed on immunosuppressive doses of corticosteroids and euthanatized 2 weeks later. Numerous organisms were found in lesions in muscle and the central nervous system. Organisms grew in tissue culture and were isolated from the peritoneal fluid of gerbils inoculated with infected tissue. Organisms were not isolated from inoculated mice, guinea pigs, rabbits, and hamsters. No parasites were seen in feces or tissues of three cats fed infected dog tissues. Serologic testing demonstrated a strong positive titer to Neospora caninurn in both pups, and electron microscopy showed the characteristic morphology of this parasite. (Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine 1992; 6:325–332)
Fibrodysplasia Ossificans Progressiva in the Cat
Authors: Valentine Beth A. , George Catherine , Randolph John F. , Center Sharon A. , Fuhrer Laurent , Beck Kathy A.
Published: March 2010

Clinical, radiographic, electromyographic, and pathologic findings in a cat with fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva are described. The features of five previously reported cases of this feline disorder are also presented. This disorder affects young adult to middle‐aged cats of both sexes. Characteristic clinical features include progressive stiffness of gait, with enlargement of proximal limb musculature. Radiography reveals multiple mineralized densities within the affected musculature. The clinical course is rapid, with development of severe disability within 2 weeks to several months. Electromyographic and pathologic findings suggest that this is a disorder of connective tissue, affecting primarily the epimysium, tendons, and fasciae, and results in marked proliferation of fibrovascular connective tissue, with associated chondroid and osseous metaplasia. (Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine 1992; 6:335–340)