bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Suture sinus in the linea alba of two dogs
Authors: Hosgood G. , Pechman R. D. , Casey H. W.
Published: April 2008

Suture sinuses developed in the linea alba of two dogs, associated with monofilament, nonabsorbable suture material. Knot bulk and irritation was thought to be the most important factor in sinus development in one dog, while infection was thought the most important factor in the other dog. Both dogs responded to aggressive surgical resection of the affected tissue and the offending suture. The factors responsible for suture sinus formation and the management of such are discussed.
Results of extra‐articular stabilisation following open reduction of coxofemoral luxation in dogs and cats
Authors: Meij B. P. , Hazewinkel H. A. W. , Nap R. C.
Published: April 2008

This report describes 14 dogs (mean age six years, mean bodyweight 25 kg) and three cats (mean age 9‐3 years, mean bodyweight 6–7 kg) with coxofemoral luxations of one to 91 days duration (median four days). In 47 per cent of the cases concomitant fractures or luxations (including three bilateral luxations) were present. Closed reduction was immediately unsuccessful in five cases and eventually unsuccessful in seven cases, whereas in five cases the nature of the additional trauma required surgical intervention. Via a craniolateral approach to the hip joint, combined with trochanter osteotomy in 24 per cent of the cases, the luxation was reduced and remnants of the capsule were sutured in 82 per cent of the cases. In all cases an extra‐articular iliofemoral suture band was applied to limit the range of motion of the femoral head. The technique is described and illustrated in detail. The success rate proved to be strongly related to the suture material and varied from excellent to poor. This extra‐articular stabilisation technique had excellent results in acute and chronic coxofemoral luxations in dogs when multifilamentous non‐absorbable material was used, even when no additional non‐weightbearing sling was used.
Ultrasonographic assessment of liver size in the dog
Authors: Barr F.
Published: April 2008

A simple ultrasonographic method of estimating liver size in the dog was evaluated in this study. A single linear measurement from the tip of the ventral liver lobes to the diaphragm was made, using both transverse and longitudinal planes of section, Assuming careful technique, this measurement proved to be highly reproducible. There was good correlation between the measurements taken on the two planes of section. This measurement was shown to provide a good indicator of liver mass, irrespective of the size or breed of dog. It was concluded that ultrasound provides a simple, quantitative method of assessing liver size in the dog.
Normal hepatic I measurements in mature dogs
Authors: Barr F.
Published: April 2008

Ultrasonographic estimations of liver size were made in each of 100 normal adult dogs. A correlation coefficient of 0.78 was found between the single linear hepatic measurement selected and bodyweight. The relationship between liver size and bodyweight was found to be approximately linear, with no apparent departure from linearity at extremes of bodyweight. The sex of the animal did not affect liver size once bodyweight had been taken into account. Deep, narrow‐chested dogs tended to have a slightly greater liver measurement for a given bodyweight than shallow, wide‐chested dogs, but this difference was small compared to the variation seen between individuals of the same body type and weight. Thus a graph could be constructed, with 95 per cent confidence limits, allowing prediction of the normal range of liver sizes for a given bodyweight. This graph may be applied to adult dogs of either sex and any breed conformation within the weight range of 1 to 60 kg.
Neuroblastoma in the dog
Authors: Payne‐Johnson C. E. , Brockman D. J.
Published: April 2008

A peripheral neuroblastoma is described in a two‐year‐old Japanese Akita with a vague illness and a palpable abdominal mass. Radiology confirmed the presence of a cranial abdominal mass which was determined to be inoperable at exploratory laparotomy. The tumour was believed to have originated in the adrenal glands. The problems of clinical and pathological diagnosis are discussed.
Sensory neuropathy in a Jack Russell terrier
Authors: Franklin R. J. M. , Olby N. J. , Targett M. P. , Houlton J. E. F.
Published: April 2008

A six‐year‐old male Jack Russell terrier was referred for investigation of an abnormal hindlimb stance and unresolving lesion on the dorsum of the right hindfoot. Clinical examination revealed cutaneous sensory and proprioceptive deficits affecting predominantly the hindlimbs. However, no motor deficits were evident. A sensory abnormality was confirmed by histological examination of a biopsy of a lateral branch of the superficial peroneal nerve, which contained only a single myelinated fibre. The condition was diagnosed as a sensory neuropathy, a disorder previously unrecognised in this breed.
Use of pins and methyl‐methacrylate in stabilisation of spinal fractures and luxations
Authors: Wong W. T. , Emms S. G.
Published: April 2008

Fracture/luxation of the vertebral column commonly results from automobile accidents. Various surgical techniques have been described to stabilise the traumatised vertebral column. This paper describes the use of pins and methyl‐methacrylate to maintain fixation of vertebral fracture/luxation at different locations along the spine in four patients of differing bodyweights.
Ultrasound evaluation of pregnancy and spontaneous embryonic resorption in the bitch
Authors: England G. C. W.
Published: April 2008

One hundred and one pregnant bitches were imaged using real‐time B‐mode ultrasonography. The accuracy of predicting fetal number was 38 per cent during early pregnancy and was lower with later examinations. If bitches were examined in early pregnancy and estimated to have five pups or more, or four pups or less, the predictive value of ultrasound was 100 per cent and 83‐3 per cent, respectively. The ultrasonographic appearance of one case of abortion and five cases of isolated spontaneous embryonic resorption were characterised. The resorptions did not apparently interfere with adjacent remaining conceptuses. The components of embryonic resorption were found to be; reduced volume and changes in echogenicity of embryonic fluid, loss of embryonic mass and heartbeat, collapse of the conceptus with thickening and inward bulging of the uterine wall and reduced size in comparison with adjacent conceptuses. Following resorption the uterus was moderately hypoechoic in appearance, similar to after parturition. No risk factors were correlated with resorption or abortion.
Arteriosclerosis of extramural coronary arteries in labradors with congestive heart failure
Authors: Kelly D. F. , Gaskell C J. , Lee M. A.
Published: April 2008

Two adult male labrador dogs had short clinical histories of congestive cardiac failure lasting only six weeks. Cardiac function deteriorated rapidly in both dogs, in spite of symptomatic treatment with cardiac glycoside, diuretic and p‐adrenergic blocker. Necropsies revealed ascites and pulmonary congestion, but no macroscopic evidence of valvular or myocardial disease adequate to account for the cardiac dysfunction. Both dogs had extensive stenosis of extramural coronary arteries. This unusual vascular lesion comprised fibroelastic intimal thickening, discontinuity of internal elastic lamella and focal atrophy of medial smooth muscle. It seems likely that cardiac failure in these dogs was associated with myocardial underperfusion caused by extensive non‐thrombotic, non‐atherogenic stenosis of extramural coronary arteries.
Interlocking intramedullary nail stabilisation of a diaphyseal tibial fracture
Authors: Muir P. , Parker R. B. , Goldsmid S. E. , Johnson K. A.
Published: April 2008

A closed comminuted diaphyseal tibial fracture in an adult dog was stabilised with a custommade interlocking intramedullary nail. The fracture progressed to union by 14 weeks, by secondary bone healing. The use of interlocking intramedullary nails in human and veterinary orthopaedics is discussed.
Congenital hypothyroidism in a boxer dog
Authors: Mooney C. T. , Anderson T. J.
Published: April 2008

Congenital central hypothyroidism was diagnosed in a one‐year‐old boxer dog. The dog was presented for investigation of lameness, lethargy and obesity. Survey skeletal radiographs revealed delayed bone maturation and epiphyseal dysgenesis. A diagnosis of hypothyroidism was confirmed on the basis of a low basal serum thyroxine (T4) concentration that failed to increase following bovine thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) administration. However, repeated administration of TSH resulted in reactivation of the thyroid gland suggesting a central rather than a primary problem. Consistently low basal plasma Cortisol concentrations were suggestive of a concurrent secondary or tertiary hypoadrenocorticism. Surprisingly, plasma growth hormone concentrations were elevated before treatment but decreased once thyroid replacement therapy had commenced.
Canine multicentric lymphoma 1: Clinico‐pathological presentation of the disease
Authors: Dobson J. M. , Gorman N. T.
Published: April 2008

The clinicopathological features of 90 cases of canine multicentric lymphoma are described. The majority of cases occurred in middle‐aged dogs (five to eight years of age) with a mean age at presentation of 6–7 years. A marked sex predisposition was noted with male dogs out numbering females by 2:1. No significant breed predispositions were found. The most common presentation was a generalised lymphadenopathy but in approximately one‐third of the cases this was accompanied by other signs including polyuria and polydipsia, facial oedema and upper respiratory tract obstruction. Approximately two‐thirds of all the cases showed non‐specific haematological abnormalities including thrombocytopenia, anaemia and white blood cell anomalies. All the cases were clinically staged according to the anatomical extent of the disease. The majority of the dogs were classified as stage 3 or above, denoting that the disease is invariably widespread or systemic upon initial presentation.
Tube gastrostomy in dogs
Authors: Williams J. M. , White R. A. S.
Published: April 2008

Tube gastrostomy was performed in 19 dogs over a period of 36 months. Indications for tube gastrostomy included non‐oral feeding for the management of oesophageal injuries (nine cases) and dysphagia resulting from oral or pharyngeal trauma (two cases) and decompression and, or, gastropexy for gastric diseases including gastric dilatation volvulus (four cases), gastric outflow diseases (three cases) and gastric neoplasia (one case). All the tubes were placed surgically and left in situ for periods of up to 14 days. Feeding was by frequent bolus administration of a proprietary enteral food initially followed by homogenised commercial dog food. The tubes were readily managed and patency maintained in all cases. Gastric stomata granulated within three days of tube removal. Fourteen dogs recovered and returned to normal oral feeding while three died as the result of their presenting condition. A fourth was euthanased four months after surgery because of recurrence of a gastric malignancy. This review indicates that surgically placed tube gastrostomy is readily performed and is an effective means of providing non‐oral alimentation and, or, gastric decompression.
Canine lymphoid leukaemia and lymphoma with bone marrow involvement: A review of 24 cases
Authors: Morris J. S. , Dunn J. K. , Dobson J. M.
Published: April 2008

Eleven cases of canine lymphoid leukaemia (10 acute and one chronic) were compared with 13 cases of canine lymphoma with bone marrow abnormalities, with regard to presentation, treatment and survival. Breed, age, and sex were similar for the two groups of dogs, but there was a marked difference in presenting signs, haematological parameters and bone marrow analysis, with the leukaemic dogs showing more severe changes. The clinicopathological features of these cases are reported in this paper and discussed with regard to prognosis. The mean survival time was significantly lower (43 days) in dogs treated for acute lymphoblastic leukaemia than for dogs treated for lymphoma with bone marrow abnormalities (351 days).
Distribution of propionibacteria on dogs: A preliminary report of the findings on 11 dogs
Authors: Harvey R. G. , Noble W. C. , Lloyd D. H.
Published: April 2008

A microdissection technique was used to investigate the flora of the canine skin surface and hair follicle. Anaerobic incubation revealed a species of Propionibacterium on the skin of seven of 11 normal dogs. The organism had cultural and biochemical similarities to Propionibacterium acnes. Analysis of the distribution of the organism revealed significant differences between carriage on males and females, between dogs with long and shorthaired coats and between dogs with coarse and fine hair. When present, the regional distribution of P acnes was similar to that found on man, with higher numbers found on the trunk than on the feet.
Fabellae and popliteal sesamoid bones in cats
Authors: Arnbjerg J. , Heje N. I.
Published: April 2008

Radiographs of the stifle joints of cats revealed a lack of mineralisation in the medial os fabella in a high percentage of domestic cats and also some exotic species of cat. In all the post mortem examinations undertaken the medial sesamoid bones were smaller. In the non‐radiopaque sesamoid bones there was a solid mass which on histological examination consisted of fibrocartilage, whereas the radiodense sesamoid bones consisted of lamellar osseous tissue. The lack of mineralisation of the medial fabellae seems to be more prevalent in domestic than in pedigree cats. None of the exotic cats had mineralised tissue in the medial fabellae. Lack of mineralisation of the sesamoid bones is not significant clinically.
Retrospective evaluation of fixation complications of 49 pelvic osteotomies in 36 dogs
Authors: Hosgood G. , Lewis D. D.
Published: April 2008

Thirty‐six dogs undergoing 49 pelvic osteotomies (POs) stabilised either by manually twisted dynamic compression plates (DCPS; n= 29) or canine pelvic osteotomy plates (CPOPS; n = 20) were retrospectively reviewed. Postoperative radiographs were available for all POs and 36 had additional radiographic follow‐up. Pelvic osteotomies with CPOPs were more likely to have three screws placed in the sacrum while DCPs were associated with none, one or two screws in the sacrum. There was no difference in the postoperative sagittal alignment of the acetabular segments for POs with DCPs or CPOPs. Screw loosening was the most common complication (n = 13/36, 36 per cent), usually involving screws in the ilial segment. On follow‐up radiographs, medial displacement of the acetabular segment was most frequently associated with screw loosening and plate bending. Medial displacement of the acetabular segment caused apparent pelvic narrowing on radiographs, more pronounced in dogs with bilateral POs, but clinical problems were not reported.
Odontoma in a juvenile boxer: Clinical, radiographic and pathological findings
Authors: Smith K. C. , Brearley M. J. , Jeffery N. D.
Published: April 2008

Compound odontoma was diagnosed in a seven‐month‐old boxer dog. The hamartoma presented as an expansile painless mass in the right rostral hemimandible, causing severe distortion of the incisor arcade. Radiographs revealed filling of the medullary cavity of the bone by soft tissue containing mineralised foci, with attendant cortical thinning. The lesion was excised. Histological evaluation demonstrated a connective tissue stroma containing multiple irregular foci of enamel and dentine resembling rudimentary teeth (denticles). These were typically bounded by an ameloblastic zone and contained a central area of odontoblasts and dental pulp. At nine months after surgery, no recurrence has been recognised.
Laryngeal adenocarcinoma in a dog
Authors: Gonzalez J. L. , Rollan E. , Garcia P. , Sanchez B. , Martinez E.
Published: April 2008

Laryngeal adenocarcinoma was diagnosed in an eight‐year‐old female cocker spaniel presented with inspiratory dyspnoea and dysphonia. Nine weeks after surgical debulking, the neoplasm recurred. Post mortem examination revealed metastases in cervical lymph nodes and lungs.
Food allergy and dietary intolerance in dogs: A report of 25 cases
Authors: Harvey R. G.
Published: April 2008

Food allergy or dietary intolerance was diagnosed in 25 dogs. A screening diet of home‐cooked chicken and rice was used in all cases except in those dogs which were regularly fed chicken. If an improvement was noted, dogs were then challenged with their original diet and, if relapse occurred, they were suspected of having a diet‐related dermatosis. After remission was achieved by again feeding the home‐cooked screening diet the animals were provocatively challenged with dietary components. The offending component was a single constituent of the original in 13 of the animals. The age of onset of clinical signs ranged from three months to 10 years and the median age at onset of clinical signs was significantly different from the median age at the hospital. All animals responded to the screening diet within three weeks and none required a period of more than two weeks to respond to provocative challenge. The duration of time between challenge and the onset of clinical signs was significantly different between dogs with intolerance to cereal and those intolerant to dairy products.
Gastrointestinal endoscopy in the dog
Authors: Simpson K. W.
Published: April 2008

Endoscopy has transformed the diagnostic and therapeutic approach to gastrointestinal diseases in dogs and cats. This article presents an overview of the diagnostic and therapeutic endoscopic procedures which can be undertaken by the small animal practitioner.
Reading a pet food label
Authors: Burger I. H.
Published: April 2008

Behind the myriad of labels which adorn pet foods there are strict regulations which require manufacturers to list various characteristics of the product. In the UK these declarations are encapsulated in the statutory statement which, in addition to being visible, legible and indelible, must be separate from all other information on the label. The label must indicate whether the product is nutritionally complete or complementary, its intended purpose, eg, growth or adult food, and directions for use. The ingredients must be listed in descending order by weight and the typical analysis must also be declared. For certain nutrients (eg, protein) this declaration is mandatory, for others, such as vitamins, the regulations are governed by the type and whether they have been added to the product or are naturally present. If certain additives have been included, they must be declared using either categories (eg, ‘antioxidant’), chemical names or European Community numbers. Other optional data such as batch numbering and date marking have been stated on the label for many years. The new Feeding Stuffs Regulations (1991) have now incorporated these as obligatory declarations. Any information outside the statutory statement is controlled by the Trade Descriptions Act and therefore must not mislead the purchaser. For example, the label must not suggest that the product possesses properties which it does not, nor must it imply that it is special when similar properties are found in other products. Furthermore, the label must not claim that the product will prevent, treat or cure disease — such products will normally be controlled by the Medicines Act. The nutrient requirements of pet animals can be met by a range of optimal values between deficiency on one hand and toxicity on the other. The concentration of nutrients in a product will be adjusted within these two ‘goalposts' with regard to the species, life stage and type of feeding for which the food is intended. The way that this total technological and nutritional package is reflected in the analysis of the product and its directions for use are discussed.
Dietary management of chronic renal disease in dogs: A critical appraisal
Authors: Kronfeld D. S.
Published: April 2008

Diets low in protein have been recommended for dogs with chronic renal failure (CRF) since 1948, and for apparently healthy old dogs since 1960. These recommendations were based on studies of rats and poorly documented clinical experiences with dogs. Since 1979, a series of eight experiments on partially nephrectomised dogs and four clinical trials on naturally occurring chronic renal disease have demonstrated serious disadvantages of diets that contained high (38 to 49 per cent on a metabolisable energy (ME) basis) or very low (3 to 10 per cent) protein. In addition to poor acceptance of low protein (12 and 16 per cent) diets, undesired responses included exacerbation of depressed renal functions, reduced renal reserve, severe hyperfiltration in single nephrons, metabolic acidosis, hypercholesterolaemia, and hypertension. Protein deficiency may not have caused the complications observed, and may have been due to another feature of the diets fed. In seven studies, diets with a moderate (20 to 31 per cent ME) protein level fared better in regard to reduced renal pathology and proteinuria, better renal functions and reserve, and improvement of clinical status, azotaemia, hyperphosphataemia and anaemia. In the first instance, preferred products for CRF should contain moderate (20 to 24 per cent) protein and minimal phosphorus. Taking into consideration these 12 kidney studies a protein content of 30 per cent is recommended for apparently healthy old dogs. Current recommendations are to introduce a diet that is low in protein at a ‘critical point’ in the course of CRF, when its advantages are likely to outweigh its possible disadvantages. When this critical point has been reached has not been determined, but it is likely to be based on an assessment of the individual case.
Quantitative analysis of canine plasma lipoproteins
Authors: Barrie J. , Nash A. S. , Watson T. D. G.
Published: April 2008

A combined ultracentrifugationl/precipitation method for the measurement of lipoprotein cholesterol concentrations was developed and validated for use with canine plasma. Very low density lipoproteins (VLDL) were isolated by flotation ultracentrifugation and low density lipoproteins (LDL) separated from high density lipoproteins (HDL) by precipitation with heparin‐manganese chloride. Effective separation of these classes was confirmed by agarose gel electrophoresis of native lipoproteins and by sodium dodecyl sulphate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis of their apolipoprotein distributions. There was trace contamination of the LDL precipitate with HDL, but this represented less than 4 and 9 per cent of the total plasma HDL in normo‐ and hypercholesterolaemic dogs, respectively. The intra‐assay and interassay coefficients of variation for LDL‐ and HDL‐cholesterol concentrations were between 3·3 and 6·9 per cent, and 7·2 and 9·0 per cent, respectively, for plasma cholesterol concentrations between 2·67 and 8·14 mmoll/litre. The intra‐assay coefficient of variation for VLDL‐cholesterol was 53·8 and 18·4 per cent at plasma cholesterol concentrations of 2·67 and 8·14 mmol/litre, respectively. The interassay coefficient of variation for VLDL was 22·5 per cent. Storage of plasma at ‐20°C for between two and eight weeks did not affect VLDL‐cholesterol concentrations, but led to an increase in LDL‐cholesterol and a decrease in HDL‐cholesterol concentrations of approximately 10 per cent. The method described is appropriate for the measurement of lipoprotein concentrations in plasma from normo‐ and hypercholesterolaemic dogs, but samples should not be subjected to prolonged storage before analysis.
Intramedullary spinal cord metastasis of a primary lung tumour in a dog
Authors: Macpherson G. C. , Chadwick B. J. , Robbins P. D.
Published: April 2008

A dog was presented with signs of subacute, progressive myelopathy. A tentative diagnosis of a diffuse intramedullary spinal cord mass was made using contrast radiography (myelography). At autopsy a solitary, large bronchoalveolar carcinoma was detected in a lung lobe. Histological examination of the cranial thoracic spinal cord revealed a tumour which was similar, but not identical, to the lung tumour. Immunohistochemistry helped to confirm that the spinal lesion was a metastasis of the lung tumour.
IgA and IgM rheumatoid factors in canine rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Bell S. C. , Carter S. D. , May C. , Bennett D.
Published: April 2008

Serum and synovial fluid IgM and IgA‐rheumatoid factors (RF) were measured, by ELISA, in groups of dogs with systemic lupus erythematosus, rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis and their levels were compared with normal animals. Patients with rheumatoid arthritis had significantly elevated IgA‐RF, particularly those with erosive disease, as did those with systemic lupus erythematosus, compared with the other groups. Measurement of IgA‐RF may be more useful than IgM‐RF for the diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis in dogs.
Stimulated single fibre electromyography in normal dogs
Authors: Hopkins A. L. , Howard J. F. , Wheeler S. J. , Kornegay J. N.
Published: April 2008

A technique for the evaluation of neuromuscular transmission using single fibre electromyography was developed for the peroneus longus muscle of dogs. Individual muscle fibre action potentials were recorded in 10 dogs, with a specialised needle electrode, during repetitive axon‐al stimulation at the motor point of the right peroneus longus muscle. Variability in latency from stimulus artefact to action potential was evaluated for 50 to 100 consecutive discharges for several fibres in the muscle of each dog. Latency variability (jitter) was expressed as the mean of consecutive differences (MCD) in latency for each muscle fibre. A mean of MCDS was calculated for the muscle of each animal. The upper limits of normal for the peroneus longus suggested by this study are 30 us (for individual muscle fibres) and 19 μs (for mean of group of fibres).
Ocular manifestations of a plasma cell myeloma
Authors: Sansom J. , Dunn J. K.
Published: April 2008

This paper reports a case of blindness caused by secondary glaucoma and retinal detachment, resulting from a plasma cell myeloma in an eight‐year‐old, male, Jack Russell terrier.
Myeloproliferative disorder involving the megakaryocytic line
Authors: Canfield P. J. , Church D. B. , Russ I. G.
Published: April 2008

Myeloproliferative disorders involving the megakaryocytic line are uncommon but in recent years several reports have come from North America and the United Kingdom describing megakaryoblastic leukaemia (MbL) and a particular form called essential thrombocythaemia (ET). This article reports a myeloproliferative disorder in a dog that was ultimately designated as MbL on the basis of the presence of circulating blast cells and thrombocythaemia, and of multi‐organ infiltration and myelofibrosis. It comments on the difficulties of diagnosing such a condition and reviews previously published articles on MbL and ET in dogs and cats.
Unusual muscle and tendon disorders of the forelimb in the dog
Authors: Anderson A. , Stead A. C. , Coughlan A. R.
Published: April 2008

Five dogs with unusual muscle and tendon disorders of the forelimb are described. In one dog, mineralisation of the tendon of insertion of the supraspinatus muscle was treated surgically but lameness returned following the resumption of exercise. Of two cases of avulsion of the origin of the extensor carpi radialis muscle, one was successfully managed conservatively while the other needed surgical intervention to resolve the lameness. A single case of chronic avulsion/rupture of the tendon of insertion of the extensor carpi radialis muscle was successfully managed conservatively while a case of medial displacement of the biceps brachii tendon was surgically corrected by repair of the transverse humeral ligament. The aetiology, diagnosis and management of the above conditions is discussed.
Insulin‐secreting tumours of the canine pancreas: Clinical and pathological features of 11 cases
Authors: Dunn J. K. , Bostock D. E. , Herrtage M. E. , Jackson K. F. , Walker M. J.
Published: April 2008

This paper describes the clinical and pathological features of 11 dogs with insulin‐secreting tumours of the pancreas. All the dogs showed episodic weakness or collapse. The diagnosis was made on fasting plasma glucose and serum insulin concentrations, the insulimglucose ratio, and the results of an intravenous glucose tolerance test. Ten of the dogs had exploratory laparotomy, and partial pancreatectomy was performed in nine of the cases. One case was euthanased at surgery because of widespread metastases. The tumours were graded histologically and the results compared with the time to recurrence of clinical signs and postoperative survival time. Postoperative survival time for dogs which died or were euthanased as a direct result of tumour recurrence, and time to recurrence of clinical signs were calculated from actuarial survival curves. The median time to recurrence of clinical signs after surgery was 12 months (range from four to 16 months; mean time to recurrence of clinical signs 12 months). Two cases died of unrelated disease, without recurrence of hypoglycaemic signs. The median postoperative survival time was 14 months (range 10 to 33 months; mean survival time 15 months). There is a suggestion that tumours with a high mitotic count carried a worse prognosis.
Coxofemoral luxations in cats
Authors: Pérez‐Aparicio F. J. , Fjeld T. O.
Published: April 2008

In a retrospective study, 79 untreated luxations of the coxofemoral joint in cats were recorded over a 12‐year period. Twenty‐nine of these cases were available for follow‐up, of which 13 were re‐examined clinically and radiologically. It was found that the maximum incidence of the injury occurred from one to three years of age. Follow‐up radiographs showed that the cats had developed nearthroses of various degrees located dorsally on the ilium. The degree of nearthrosis formation was not consistently correlated with the length of the observation time. Radiological signs of decreased bone density of the proximal femur may be caused by reduced weightbearing related to changes in biomechanical function and altered blood supply in the luxated limb. Almost two‐thirds of the re‐examined animals presented some kind of locomotor dysfunction on clinical examination. Limb function improved with time. The best clinical results appeared to be in cats that were immature at the time of injury and developed nearthrosis similar to a normal coxofemoral joint. All the cats available to this study showed acceptable functional results and had a normal level of activity according to the owners.
Evaluation of repetitive nerve stimulation in young dogs
Authors: Gödde T. , Jaggy A. , Vandevelde M. , Gaillard C.
Published: April 2008

Evaluation of neuromuscular transmission requires a complete electrodiagnostic evaluation including repetitive nerve stimulation. Supra‐maximal stimulation of the peroneal nerve and recording of the compound muscle action potentials from the cranial tibial muscle were under‐taken in 25 young dogs of two to 18 months of age. Proximal stimulation in the trochanteric fossa and distal stimulation in the popliteal fossa were chosen for small and large breeds, respectively. Highly consistent results were obtained when the examined muscle was kept at a constant temperature and the limb was firmly fixed. Neither sex‐ (14 females, 11 males) nor age‐ related (mean = 4·4 months] differences in neuromuscular transmission were found, but frequency‐dependent phenomena were observed. These became more distinct with high frequency stimulation. Pseudofacilitation (n = 16/15 Hz; n = 7/50 Hz), was found to range within certain limits (6 to 26 per cent/15 Hz; 13 to 31 per cent/50 Hz). Its mean values at 50 Hz stimulation were apparently higher (26·88 per cent) than those at 15 Hz stimulation (11·3 per cent). Decremental responses occurred mainly with application of tetanic stimulation frequency (n = 1/15 Hz; n = 12/50 Hz) and may represent blocking of neuromuscular transmission. Each of these reaction patterns usually started to occur at the fourth potential of a series (81 per cent/15 Hz; 94 per cent/50 Hz) and remained constant during the second half of the stimulation train in most cases. The occurrence of post‐tetanic phenomena in healthy dogs is poorly understood. Post‐tetanic potentiation observed in the present material (24 per cent) may represent pseudofacilitation following high stimulation frequency (50 Hz/100 pulses).
Dermoid cyst of the spinal cord associated with ataxia in a cat
Authors: Henderson J. P. , Pearson G. R. , Smerdon T. N.
Published: April 2008

A young adult Balinese cat developed complete hindlimb paralysis which persisted for six weeks. Clinical findings suggested a lesion compressing the spinal cord and this was confirmed at necropsy. A dermoid cyst was present at the level of the third thoracic vertebra. The cyst was lined by stratified squamous epithelium and contained desquamated keratinised material and hair fragments. Sebaceous glands and hair follicles were present in the connective tissue wall. This is the first report of a dermoid cyst in the spinal cord of a cat. The lesion is considered to be a congenital anomaly.
Lipoprotein metabolism and hyperlipidaemia in the clog and cat: A review
Authors: Watson T. D. G. , Barrie J.
Published: April 2008

The term hyperlipidaemia is used to describe raised plasma concentrations of cholesterol and, or, triglycerides. These aqueous insoluble lipids are transported through plasma in special particles called lipoproteins of which there are four main types; chylomicrons, very low density lipoproteins (VLDL), low density lipoproteins (LDL) and high density lipoproteins (HDL). A transient rise in plasma triglycerides occurs following a meal as dietary fat is carried from the small intestine into the circulation by chylomicrons; this is called post prandial hyperlipidaemia. In addition, hyperlipidaemia is caused by defects in the metabolism of one or more of the lipoprotein classes which may be either genetic in origin or, more commonly in the dog and the cat, secondary to diabetes mellitus, hypothyroidism, hyperadrenocorticism, and renal and hepatic disease. Hypertriglyceridaemia is caused by reduced clearance of chylomicrons and VLDL, sometimes with overproduction of VLDL, whereas hypercholesterolaemia results from altered metabolism of LDL and HDL. Raised plasma triglycerides interfere with a number of clinical chemistry tests and may be associated with cutaneous xanthomata, vomiting and diarrhoea, peripheral nerve paralyses, seizures, pancreatitis, hepatosplenomegaly and lipaemia retinalis. The clinical manifestations of hypercholesterolaemia in the dog are few and largely confined to the eye. Diagnostic efforts should concentrate on determining whether the hyperlipidaemia is either genetic in origin or secondary to endocrine and systemic diseases. Plasma lipid concentrations usually return to normal with effective therapy of any underlying disease. Where no such disease can be identified, the hyperlipidaemia should be considered idiopathic in origin and the patient placed on a low fat diet.
Successful arthroscopic treatment of shoulder osteochondrosis in the dog
Authors: van Ryssen B. , van Bree H. , Missinne S.
Published: April 2008

Fourteen shoulder joints in 12 dogs were treated arthroscopically for osteochondrosis. The arthroscopic procedure included removal of all osteochondral flaps and curettage of the edges of the subchondral defect. Histological examination of biopsy samples from eight joints revealed synovitis in all cases. Arthroscopic surgery of shoulder osteochondrosis in the dog proved to be a less time consuming procedure than arthrotomy with minimal soft tissue trauma and allowed a rapid return to function of the patients.
Hereditary myopathy of Devon rex cats
Authors: Malik R. , Mepstead K. , Yang F. , Harper C.
Published: April 2008

Six closely related Devon rex cats afflicted with a congenital muscle disease were investigated over a three‐year period. Physical findings included passive ventroflexion of the head and neck, dorsal protrusion of the scapulae, megaoesophagus, generalised appendicular weakness and fatigability. Signs became evident at three to 23 weeks of age and then usually progressed slowly or remained static. Plasma levels of creatine kinase and aspartate aminotransferase were not elevated. Histological examination of tissues from affected cats showed changes indicative of a primary myopathy, with neither nerve nor spinal cord involvement. Four of the six cats died suddenly of laryngospasm after obstruction of the pharynx or larynx with food.
Pectus excavatum and left to right intracardiac shunt in a kitten
Authors: Johnston S. A. , Moon M. L. , Atkinson R. N. , Eyster G. E.
Published: April 2008

A six‐week‐old female kitten presented for severe pectus excavatum. Surgical correction was performed. One week later the kitten developed dyspnoea and a systolic murmur was detected on thoracic auscultation. Pulmonary oedema and cardiomegaly were identified radiographically, and a left to right intracardiac shunt was visualized using non‐selective angiocardiography. Clinical signs resolved spontaneously one month later. The kitten has been asymptomatic for 24 months.
Overseas speakers
Authors: Guilford Dr. Grant
Published: April 2008

IT is n tribute to the Congress Programme Committee, chaired by David Wadsworth, that it manages to come up with new ideas for the BSAVA Congress scientific programme; next year's lectures are of the highest standard. This month's Bsava News features two more of the overseas speakers who will be attending the Congress.
Clinical and echocardiographic findings in 10 dogs with vegetative bacterial endocarditis
Authors: Elwood C. M. , Cobb M. A. , Stepien R. L.
Published: April 2008

Ten cases of bacterial endocarditis in the dog were studied by retrospective analysis of case records. Diagnosis of bacterial endocarditis was based on either strict clinical criteria or post mortem examination. A wide spectrum of presenting signs was seen including pyrexia, lameness, epistaxis, haemoptysis and dyspnoea. Haematological and biochemical abnormalities were non‐specific and were attributed to the effects of septicaemia, embolism or chronic inflammation. Haemostatic abnormalities and, or, severe dysrhythmias appeared to be associated with a significantly poorer prognosis. Blood cultures were positive in four cases of eight that were cultured. Lesions compatible with bacterial endocarditis were detected in all eight cases that underwent echocardiographic examination. Right‐sided vegetations present in two dogs were not detected by echocardiography. Two‐dimensional echocardiography is a useful technique for the detection of vegetative endocarditis in the dog and allows rapid therapeutic intervention while blood culture results are pending.
Measurements on the lumbosacral junction in normal dogs and those with cauda equine compression
Authors: Schmid V. , Lang J.
Published: April 2008

Comparative measurements on lateral plain radiographs of the lumbosacral junction in neutral position, in flexion, and in extension, were made of 41 clinically and radiographically normal dogs (21 German shepherd dogs [GSDs], 12 Bernese mountain dogs, eight labrador retrievers) and 58 GSDs with clinical signs of cauda equina compression due to malformation and, or, malarticulation. The comparison of these measurements between sexes, between normal and affected GSDs and between normal GSDs and the two other breeds of dogs showed several statistically significant results. One was that the affected GSDs showed a reduced flexion ability at this junction compared to the normal ones. However, no difference was observed in the degree of sub‐luxation of the sacrum between normal and affected GSDs. It was concluded that plain radiographs of the lumbosacral junction in flexion could help in determining a reduced flexion ability, which could be a characteristic of the GSD with cauda equina compression.
Degenerative lumbosacral stenosis in the dog: A review of 30 cases
Authors: Ness M. G.
Published: April 2008

Lumbosacral disorders were diagnosed in 43 dogs over a five‐year period. Degenerative lumbosacral stenosis was found to be the cause in 30 dogs. The clinical, radiographic and myelographic findings in these dogs are reviewed and the results of conservative and surgical treatment presented. Low back pain was found to be the most important presenting sign. Only seven dogs (23 per cent) presented with a significant neurological abnormality and 15 dogs (50 per cent) showed no detectable neurological deficit. The problems associated with the definitive diagnosis of this disorder and its significance as a cause of pain and lameness in the hindquarters of large dogs are discussed.
Gastroscopic food sensitivity testing in 17 dogs
Authors: Elwood C. M. , Rutgers H. C. , Batt R. M.
Published: April 2008

Seven of 17 dogs with gastrointestinal signs and suspected dietary intolerance had positive responses to gastroscopic food sensitivity testing (GFST). Five of the non‐responders and six of the dogs that responded to GFST were successfully treated with dietary control alone. The seventh dog that responded to GFST had an ileal adenocarcinoma and did not survive to follow‐up. Local reactions to GFST included mucosal oedema, mucosal hyperaemia and gastric hyperperistalsis and systemic reactions consisted of hyperventilation and retching. The character of the responses to GFST is consistent with a type 1 hypersensitivity reaction to the food antigen, suggesting that IgE may mediate dietary sensitivity in some dogs. Positive responses to GFST may, therefore, demonstrate gastric mucosal hypersensitivity to food antigens and be useful in formulating therapeutic diets; negative responses need to be interpreted with caution. The limitations of the procedure are that it requires a videoendoscopy system, may significantly add to general anaesthetic time and will only detect immediate reactions.
Lymphangiosarcoma associated with hyonatraernia and hyperkalaemia in a dog
Authors: Lamb W. A. , Muir P.
Published: April 2008

Lymphangiosarcoma was diagnosed in a 13‐year‐old castrated male terrier cross dog. Clinical and laboratory evaluation revealed concurrent hypovolaemia, hyponatraemia and hyperkalaemia. Plasma cortisol and aldosterone concentrations excluded hypoadrenocorticism as the cause of these changes. The laboratory abnormalities may be associated with isotonic fluid loss and a transient defect in renal potassium excretion.
Use of contact plates for the quantitative culture ofMalassezia pachydermatisfrom canine skin
Authors: Bond R. , Collin N. S. , Lloyd D. H.
Published: April 2008

TheMalassezia pachydermatispopulations of the axilla and groin of 12 normal and 12 atopic dogs were compared using tape‐strips and contact plates. When assessed by either method, the mean density of yeasts in the groin of the atopic dogs was significantly greater (P<0.05) than that of the normal dogs, suggesting that the cutaneous microenvironment of the groin region of the atopic dogs favoured colonisation by this yeast. Differences between the counts from the axilla were not significant. The frequency of isolation of yeasts from both dogs and sites was significantly higher (P<0.05 and P<0.001, respectively) in the atopic group. There was a very highly significant correlation (P<0.001) between the tape‐strip counts and contact plate counts in the atopic group only. This study suggests that isolation of numerousM pachydermatiscolonies from the axilla and groin of dogs using contact plates is indicative of elevated skin surface populations. The simplicity of the contact plate method makes it suitable for the routine quantitative culture of cutaneousM pachydermatispopulations in dogs with dermatological disease.
Delimitation of safe corridors for the insertion of external fixator pins in the dog 2: Forelimb
Authors: Marti J. M. , Miller A.
Published: April 2008

Anatomical dissections of fresh canine fore‐limb specimens were carried out on the brachium and antebrachium and cross sections of the antebrachium to identify the location of safe corridors for external skeletal fixator pin insertion. Those areas and lines for safe, hazardous and unsafe corridors were defined and measured along the canine forelimb. Recommendations are made on the safe and effective use of fixator frames in the canine humerus and radius. The canine humerus was considered a concentric bone and no safe corridors could be identified. However, safe areas and lines are described. The distal two‐thirds of the medial aspect of the canine radius represents a safe corridor.
Toxoplasma pneumonia in a cat with incongruous serological test results
Authors: Sardinas J. C. , Chastain C B. , Collins B. K. , Schmidt D.
Published: April 2008

A 12‐year‐old neutered male domestic short‐haired cat was presented for rapid breathing, lethargy of two weeks duration and chronic weight loss. A diagnosis of toxoplasma‐induced pneumonia was made based on clinical signs, laboratory data, radiology, immunoglobulin M (IgM) serology and isolation of the organism from a lung aspirate. A passive haemagglutination test to measure immunoglobulin G (IgG) levels against toxoplasma was negative. The reliability of agglutination tests, to accurately diagnose an acute toxoplasma infection is questioned. In acute infections the use of an enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay for IgM may be more specific.
Panniculitis associated with pancreatic necrosis in a dog
Authors: Paterson S.
Published: April 2008

A seven‐year‐old male labrador cross was presented with lethargy, pyrexia and multiple nonpruritic draining skin lesions. The dog had sterile nodular panniculitis which, at necropsy, was found to be associated with a bile duct carcinoma leading to pancreatic necrosis.
Supraspinatus and biceps brachii tendinopathy in dogs
Authors: Muir P. , Johnson K. A.
Published: April 2008

Calcifying tendinopathy was seen on radiographic views of the scapulohumeral joint in 12 of 183 (7 per cent) dogs reviewed retrospectively. Calcifying tendinopathy was identified only in large breed dogs, five being labradors. All the affected dogs, except one, were presented for unilateral thoracic limb lameness, which was typically of a chronic and intermittent pattern. Pain on manipulation of the scapulohumeral joint in the lame leg was present in eight of 12 dogs (67 per cent). Calcification of the supraspinatus tendon was seen in eight dogs and calcification of the biceps brachii tendon was seen in the other four dogs. Radiographic changes indicative of biceps brachii tendon avulsion were found in conjunction with calcification of the contralateral biceps brachii tendon in two dogs. Filling defects, indicative of bicipital tenosynovitis, were also seen in positive contrast arthrograms of two dogs with biceps brachii calcification. Of the eight dogs for which radiographic views of both scapulohumeral joints were available, six dogs had bilateral radiographic signs of calcifying tendinopathy. Overall, radiographic signs of calcifying tendinopathy were seen in 18 scapulohumeral joints, but lameness was apparent in only nine limbs, suggesting the lesion may at times be asymptomatic. Further prospective investigation of calcifying tendinopathy is needed to determine why lameness does not always appear to be associated with the presence of the lesion.