bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Radiotherapy of oral malignant melanomas in dogs
Authors: Blackwood L. , Dobson J. M.
Published: December 2023

Objective

To evaluate response to radiotherapy in dogs with oral malignant melanomas.

Design

Clinical trial.

Animals

36 dogs with histologically confirmed oral malignant melanomas.

Procedure

The prescribed radiation dose was 36 Gy given in 4 fractions of 9 Gy at 7-day intervals. The primary radiation source was a linear accelerator.

Results

In 25 of 36 dogs, complete remission was achieved, and in 9 dogs, partial remission was achieved. Recurrence of the primary tumor was the cause of euthanasia of 4 dogs. Twenty-one dogs were euthanatized because of metastasis.

Clinical Implications

Radiotherapy was an effective palliative treatment for the primary tumor in dogs with oral malignant melanomas. However, rapid development of metastatic disease remained a major challenge, (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1996;209:98–102)
Relationships among treatment for respiratory tract disease, pulmonary lesions evident at slaughter, and rate of weight gain in feedlot cattle
Authors: Wittum T. E. , Woollen N. E. , Perino L. J. , Littledike E. T.
Published: December 2023

Objective

To quantify the effects of treatment for clinical respiratory tract disease and pulmonary lesions identified at slaughter on rate of weight gain in feedlot cattle.

Design

Prospective longitudinal study

Animals

469 feedlot steers.

Procedure

Clinical respiratory tract disease was monitored between birth and slaughter. Steers were weaned at approximately 6 months old and entered into the feedlot for a mean of 273 days. Mean daily weight gain (MDG) was monitored during the feeding period. Lungs were collected at slaughter and evaluated for gross lesions indicative of active or resolved pneumonia.

Results

Mean daily weight gain during the feeding period was 1.30 kg, and ranged from 1.16 to 1.46 kg within individual pens. Thirty-five percent of steers received treatment for respiratory tract disease between birth and slaughter, whereas 72% had pulmonary lesions evident at slaughter. Among steers treated for clinical respiratory tract disease, 78% had pulmonary lesions, whereas 68% of untreated steers had pulmonary lesions. Pulmonary lesions at slaughter were associated (P < 0.01) with a 0.076-kg reduction in MDG during the feeding period. Treatment for clinical disease was not associated with MDG after adjustment for the effect of pulmonary lesions.

Clinical Implications

Treatment of clinically affected feedlot cattle may be inadequate to prevent significant production losses attributable to respiratory tract disease. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1996;209:814-818)
Tooth root abscesses in New World camelids: 23 cases (1972-1994)
Authors: Cebra Margaret L. , Cebra Christopher K. , Garry Franklyn B.
Published: December 2023

Objective

To determine typical clinical and radiographic findings in a group of New World camelids with tooth root abscesses and to determine outcome after medical and surgical treatment.

Design

Retrospective case series.

Animals

23 llamas and alpacas with radiographic and clinical evidence of tooth root abscesses.

Procedure

Disease history, signalment, physical and radiographic examination findings, bacteriologic culture results, treatment, and short-term and long-term outcome were retrieved from the medical records.

Results

Local swelling was the most common clinical abnormality in camelids with tooth root abscesses. Mandibular molars were affected most commonly, and bacteriologic culture of samples from lesions often revealed facultative anaerobic bacteria. Antibiotic treatment for at least 30 days, surgical extraction of the affected tooth, and a root canal procedure were used successfully to treat tooth root abscesses.

Clinical Implications

Both surgical and medical treatment of tooth root abscesses may lead to successful resolution of clinical signs in New World camelids. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1996;209:819–822)
Topical treatment of Pseudomonas spinfected corneal ulcers in horses: 70 cases (1977–1994)
Authors: Sweeney Corinne R. , Irby Nita L.
Published: December 2023

Objective

To determine which antimicrobial agents. were most effective against Pseudomonas sp-infected ulcerative keratitis, and identify any trends in the various clinical conditions associated with these bacteria that might assist in effective treatment of the disease.

Design

Retrospective case series

Animals

66 horses with 70 Pseudomonas sp-infected corneal ulcers.

Procedure

We reviewed medical records of horses admitted to the George D. Widener Hospital for Large Animals, University of Pennsylvania between July 1977 and December 1994. Records of horses that had Pseudomonas sp isolated from a corneal ulcer scraping or deep swab were included in the study.

Results

Aggressive topical medical treatment was successful in 57 ulcers and most likely would have been effective in 5 additional ulcers. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing indicated susceptibilities of 87, 85, and 93% to tobramycin, gentamicin, and amikacin, respectively. Although concurrent fungal infections were identified in only 2 of 35 ulcers examined, almost three fourths of the ulcers were treated with antifungal medications prophylactically. Clinical outcomes of the 70 affected eyes included: excellent vision with minimal leukoma, 73%; enucleation, 19%; blind phthisical eye, 4%; peripheral vision only, 3%; and euthanasia of newborn, 1%.

Clinical Implications

Aggressive topical medication with microbial agents effective against Pseudomonas sp can result in excellent vision with minimal leukoma in most horses with corneal ulcers. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1996;209:954-957)
Evaluation of a five-antigen ELISA for diagnosis of tuberculosis in cattle and Cervidae
Authors: Gaborick Cynthia M. , Salman M. D. , Ellis Robert P. , Triantis Joni
Published: December 2023

Objective

To determine the validity of a 5-antigen ELISA for detection of tuberculosis in cattle and Cervidae.

Design

Cross-sectional observational study.

Sample Population

Serum samples collected from 5,304 cattle in 23 herds and 1,441 Cervidae in 12 herds.

Procedure

Discriminant analysis was used to determine the linear combination of antigens that accurately predicted the true Mycobacterium bovis infection status of the most animals. The resulting classification functions then were used to calculate the percentage of animals that were correctly classified (ie, sensitivity and specificity). The kappa statistic was calculated to evaluate different combinations of test results,

Results

Of the 23 cattle herds, 4 dairy and 2 beef herds were considered infected. Of the 12 Cervidae herds, 5 were considered infected. For cattle, the specificity and sensitivity of ELISA, using the discriminant function, were 56.4 and 65.6%, respectively. For Cervidae, the specificity and sensitivity of ELISA, using the discriminant function, were 78.6 and 70.0%, respectively.

Clinical Implications

Results suggest that the 5- antigen ELISA would not be a good test for tuberculosis, especially in cattle, if used alone. However, when results of the ELISA and tuberculin test were interpreted in parallel, sensitivity of the combination was greater than sensitivity of either test alone. Similarly, when results of the 2 tests were interpreted in series, specificity of the combination was greater than specificity of either test alone. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1996; 209:962-966)
Inheritance of von Willebrand factor deficiency in Doberman Pinschers
Authors: Moser Janet , Meyers Kenneth Murray , Russon Robert Harland
Published: December 2023

Objective

To determine the inheritance of von Willebrand factor (vWF) deficiency in Doberman Pinschers.

Design

Prospective, observational study.

Animals

26 adult Doberman Pinschers or mixedbreed dogs and 101 pups produced from 18 matings between adult dogs.

Procedure

Measurement of plasma vWF concentrations in parents and progeny. On the basis of plasma vWF concentrations, dogs were grouped as normal (75 to 160 U of vWF/dl), midrange (≥ 30 and < 75 U of vWF/dI), or low (< 30 U of vWF/dI).

Results

The percentile distribution of VWF concentrations was trimodal. Distribution between dogs with low and midrange plasma vWF concentrations changed sharply, whereas the change between dogs with midrange and normal plasma vWF concentrations was gradual. Three matings between dogs with low VWF concentrations produced 13 offspring, all with low VWF concentrations. Two matings between dogs with normal plasma vWF concentrations produced 14 offspring, all with normal VWF concentrations. Eight matings between dogs with normal and low plasma VWEF concentrations produced 54 offspring, 40 with midrange, 13 with normal, and 1 with low vWF concentrations. There were 5 matings of dogs with midrange plasma vWF concentrations to dogs with low, midrange, or high VWF concentrations. The results of all matings were consistent with a single gene defect where each normal allele produced half the total amount of vWF when both alleles are normal and each defective allele produced < 15 U of vWF/dI.

Clinical Implications

Dogs with low plasma vVWF concentrations may be homozygous for the defective allele, whereas dogs with midrange plasma vWF concentrations may be heterozygous. It can be difficult to distinguish normal homozygotes from heterozygotes if evaluation is based only on plasma vWF concentration. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1996;209:1103-1106)
An uncommon intestinal manifestation of feline infectious peritonitis: 26 cases (1986–1993)
Authors: Harvey Catherine Jane , Lopez Jorge Washington , Hendrick Mattie Jean
Published: December 2023

Objective

To provide information on an uncommon intestinal manifestation of feline infectious peritonitis (FIP).

Design

Retrospective case series.

Animals

26 cats with FIP that had apparently solitary mural intestinal lesions.

Procedure

Histologic records of cats for which FIP had been diagnosed by examination of the surgical biopsy specimens were reviewed. Slides of tissue samples from cats identified in the histologic record as having had intestinal lesions were reviewed by the investigators, and records of cats that appeared to have had solitary mural intestinal lesions were included in the study. Information including signalment; history; physical examination findings; results of hematologic, serum biochemical, and serologic analyses; findings at surgery; and results of histologic examination of biopsy specimens were retrieved from these records and supplemented by medical records and additional information obtained from veterinarians submitting the biopsy samples. ABC immunoperoxidase staining was used to detect FIP virus antigen in tissues from cats whose records were selected for inclusion in the study.

Results

26 of 156 cats with a histologic diagnosis of FIP had apparently solitary mural intestinal lesions. Predominant clinical signs were diarrhea and vomiting for 3 months or less before biopsy. All cats had a mass, believed to be a neoplasm, in the colon or ileocecocolic junction. Affected intestine was markedly thickened, nodular, firm, and white, with muitifocal pyogranulomas extending throughout the wall of the intestine on histologic examination. Associated lymph nodes were large. Results of immunohistochemical staining were positive for FIP virus. Most cats were euthanatized or died within 9 months of histologic results, many with signs of multisystemic FIP.

Clinical Implications

The apparent focal nature of intestinal lesions at surgery leads to a different clinical picture than usually seen with FIP, and masses often are believed to be neoplasms. Diagnosis of FIP is important to prevent exposure and infection of other cats. Evaluation of the entire abdominal cavity, biopsy of visible lesions as well as surrounding organs, and postmortem examination are recommended. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1996;209:1117-1120)
Jejunocolostomy or ileocolostomy for treatment of cecal impaction in horses: Nine cases (1985–1995)
Authors: Gerard Mathew P. , Bowman Karl F. , Blikslager Anthony T. , Tate Lloyd P. , Bristol David G.
Published: December 2023

Objective

To determine whether complete cecal bypass, by jejunocolostomy or ileocolostomy, is an effective treatment for horses with cecal impaction.

Design

Retrospective analysis of medical records.

Animals

9 horses with cecal impaction managed by jejunocolostomy (3) or ileocolostomy (6) performed with or without typhlotomy for evacuation of cecal contents.

Procedure

Information on age, breed, gender, duration of medical treatment, preoperative abnormalities, surgical procedure, and postoperative complications was retrieved from the medical records. Follow-up data were obtained via telephone interview with owners.

Results

6 males and 3 females between 9 and 24 years old (median, 14 years) were included. Five of 9 horses had signs of mild pain associated with reintroduction of food after surgery. All 7 horses for which follow-up information was available were still alive between 7 and 54 months (median, 1.5 years) after surgery.

Clinical Implications

Jejunocolostomy or ileocolostomy resulted in apparently permanent resolution of cecal impaction in these horses and acceptable long-term outcomes. Mild signs of abdominal pain associated with the onset of feeding can be expected in the early postoperative period. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1996;209:1287–1290)
Closed reduction and type-II external fixation of comminuted fractures of the radius and tibia in dogs: 23 cases (1990–1994)
Authors: Johnson Ann L. , Seitz Susan E. , Smith C. W. , Johnson Janna M. , Schaeffer David J.
Published: December 2023

Objective

To describe a technique for closed reduction of and application of a type-II external fixator to comminuted fractures of the radius and tibia in dogs and to evaluate outcome of the technique in a series of client-owned dogs.

Design

Retrospective case series.

Animals

23 dogs that underwent closed reduction of severely comminuted (≥ 5 fragments); mid-diaphyseal radial (n = 9); and tibial (n = 14) fractures and stabilization with a type-II external fixator.

Procedure

Radiographs were made postoperatively and every 4 to 6 weeks until the fixator was removed. The effect of type of fracture (open vs closed), type of pins (threaded vs smooth), and number of fixation pins on surgery time, time between surgery and development of bridging callus, and time between surgery and removal of the fixator was evaluated using one-sided Student's t-tests.

Results

21 fractures healed after a single surgery. Two dogs with radial fractures required a second procedure because of complications. All fractures healed with the original fixation device in place. Mean time between surgery and the development of bridging callus was 11.4 weeks (range, 4 to 22 weeks), and mean time between surgery and fixator removal was 14.7 weeks (range, 4 to 27 weeks). Type of fracture, type of pins, and number of fixation pins did not have a significant effect on surgery time, time to development of bridging callus, or time to fixator removal.

Clinical Implications

Closed reduction and application of a type-II external fixator was an effective method of treating severely comminuted radial and tibial fractures. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1996;209:1445–1448)
Systemic arterial blood pressure and urine protein/creatinine ratio in dogs with hyperadrenocorticism
Authors: Ortega Theresa M. , Feldman Edward C. , Nelson Richard W. , Willits Neil , Cowgill Larry D.
Published: December 2023

Objective—

To determine prevalence and severity of systemic arterial hypertension and proteinuria in dogs with naturally developing hyperadrenocorticism and to determine whether these abnormalities resolve with adequate management of the disease.

Design—

Case series and cohort study.

Animals—

77 dogs with naturally developing hyperadrenocorticism examined once; 15 dogs examined before and after treatment.

Results—

Among dogs examined only once, hypertension was diagnosed in 21 of 26 dogs with untreated pituitary-dependent hyperadrenocorticism (PDH), 17 of 21 with inadequately controlled PDH, 8 of 16 with well-controlled PDH, 10 of 10 with an untreated adrenocortical tumor, and 0 of 4 that had undergone adrenalectomy because of an adrenocortical tumor. Untreated dogs and dogs with inadequately controlled PDH had significantly higher blood pressures than did other dogs. Proteinuria was documented in 12 of 26 dogs with untreated PDH, 5 of 16 with inadequately controlled PDH, 3 of 14 with well-controlled PDH, 5 of 8 with an untreated adrenocortical tumor, and 1 of 3 that had undergone adrenalectomy. Dogs with untreated PDH and dogs with an untreated adrenocortical tumor had higher urine protein/creatinine ratios than did dogs with well-controlled PDH. Among dogs evaluated before and after treatment, blood pressure and urine protein/creatinine ratio did not change in 8 dogs with inadequately controlled hyperadrenocorticism, but decreased in 7 dogs with well-controlled disease.

Clinical Implications—

Results suggest that systemic hypertension and proteinuria are common in dogs with untreated hyperadrenocorticism and that successful treatment of hyperadrenocorticism will result in resolution of these abnormalities in many, but not all, dogs. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1996;209:1724–1729)
Heat-induced illness in dogs: 42 cases (1976–1993)
Authors: Drobatz Kenneth J. , Macintire Douglass K.
Published: December 2023

Objective—

To determine the typical history of and physical and clinicopathologic findings in dogs with heat-induced illness, and to correlate these findings with outcome.

Design—

Retrospective study.

Animals—

42 dogs with heat-induced illness.

Procedure—

Dogs were included in the study if other medical problems had not been previously diagnosed and if clinical signs of illness developed after exposure to a warm environment. Information obtained from each record included time of year heat-induced illness developed, signalment, history, clinical signs, physical examination findings, results of clinicopathologic tests, treatment, clinical course, outcome, and necropsy results.

Results—

Overall, 27 dogs survived and 15 died or were euthanatized. Time of year was recorded for 40 dogs. Thirty-one of the 40 were examined before July. Hypothermia and coma at the time of initial examination were associated with a poor outcome. Serum cholesterol, albumin, and total protein concentrations were significantly lower, serum total bilirubin and creatinine concentrations were significantly higher, and ventricular arrhythmias were detected significantly more frequently in dogs that did not survive than in dogs that did. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1996;209:1894–1899)
Microbiological study of transtracheal aspirates from dogs with suspected lower respiratory tract disease: 264 cases (1989-1995)
Authors: Angus John C. , Jang Spencer S. , Hirsh Dwight C.
Published: December 2023

Objective

To determine the most commonly isolated bacterial species associated with lower respiratory tract disease of dogs and to determine susceptibility of these isolates to antimicrobial agents.

Design

Retrospective case series.

Sample Population

Transtracheal aspirates from 264 dogs with clinical evidence of lower respiratory tract disease.

Procedure

Records of microbiological analyses of transtracheal aspirates obtained from dogs with clinical evidence of lower respiratory tract disease were reviewed. Analyses performed included bacterial culture (anaerobic and aerobic organisms) and susceptibility testing (aerobic organisms). The medical record of each affected dog was evaluated to determine signalment and underlying condition.

Results

Bacteria were isolated from 116 of 264 (44%) samples, and 203 bacterial species were identified. Most (57%) of the samples from which bacteria could be isolated contained a single species, whereas 43% yielded cultures of mixed species. Bacterial species belonging to the family Enterobacteriaceae (particularly Escherichia coli) were isolated most commonly (45.7% of samples contained members of this group), followed by members of the genus Pasteurella (22.4%), obligate anaerobes (21.6%). β-hemolytic Streptococcus (12.1 %), Bordetella bronchiseptica (12.1%), nonhemolytic Streptococcus/Enterococcus sp group (12.1%), coagulase-positive Staphylococcus (9.5%). and Pseudomonas sp (7.8%), The most active antimicrobial drugs (inhibiting > 90% of the isolates) for aerobic microorganisms encountered most often (E coli and Pasteurella sp) included amikacin, ceftizoxime sodium, enrofloxacin, and gentamicin sulfate.

Clinical Implications

Amikacin, ceftizoxime, enrofloxacin, and gentamicin may be rational choices for treatment of suspected infectious lower respiratory tract disease of dogs. before identification of the causative agent(s) and before results of susceptibility tests become available. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1997;210:55–58)
Survey of diplomates of the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine and the American College of Veterinary Surgeons regarding clinical aspects and treatment of endotoxemia in horses
Authors: Shuster R. , Traub-Dargatz J. , Baxter G.
Published: December 2023

A questionnaire designed to elicit information concerning prevalence, underlying causes, diagnosis, prevention, treatment, and complications of endotoxemia in horses was mailed to diplomates of the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine and the American College of Veterinary Surgeons who identified themselves as equine practitioners. Gastrointestinal tract compromise, conditions associated with foaling, and grain overload were reported to be the most common clinical conditions that led to endotoxemia. Laminitis was the most commonly reported complication. Most of the respondents diagnosed endotoxemia on the basis of the following clinical and laboratory findings: neutropenia, leukopenia, hyperemic mucous membranes, tachycardia, and fever. Treatments used to attempt to prevent development of endotoxemia or to treat horses with endotoxemia included iv fluids and administration of broad-spectrum antimicrobials and flunixin meglumine. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1997; 210:87–92)
Prevalence and inheritance of and selection for elbow arthrosis in Bernese Mountain Dogs and Rottweilers in Sweden and benefit:cost analysis of a screening and control program
Authors: Swenson Lennart , Audell Lars , Hedhammar Åke
Published: December 2023

Objective

To determine the prevalence and changes over time in the prevalence of elbow arthrosis in Bernese Mountain Dogs and Rottweilers, to ascertain whether prevalence or severity of elbow arthrosis was associated with sex of the dogs, age at the time of elbow joint examination, or ancestral background, to determine the effects of selective breeding, and to conduct an economic evaluation of the elbow arthrosis program operated by the Swedish Kennel Club.

Design

Analysis of radiographic evaluations of elbow joint conformity.

Animals

4,515 dogs from 2 breeds registered by the Swedish Kennel Club.

Procedure

All radiographs were scrutinized by a single radiologist (LA), and elbow joint conformation was classified as normal or arthrotic, with the degree of arthrosis classified as 1, 2, or 3.

Results

Decreasing prevalence of elbow arthrosis corresponding to selection of breeding stock and high heritabilities was found. Sex differences were documented in both breeds, but with contradictory directions. This was interpreted as breed differences in the distribution of genes related to elbow arthrosis. Economic analyses showed that costs of screening and registration of elbow joints was less than the value of dogs estimated to have been saved from moderate and severe elbow arthrosis in both breeds.

Clinical Implications

Documented effects of age suggest that all dogs should be screened at the same age, rather than screening a few dogs at an older, more revealing age. In screening and control programs based on an open registry with access to family records, decreasing prevalence of elbow arthrosis can be expected, and related to selection of breeding stock.
Seroprevalence of antibodies to Sarcocystis neurona in horses residing in Ohio
Authors: Saville William J. , Reed Stephen M. , Granstrom David E. , Hinchcliff Kenneth W. , Kohn Catherine W. , Wittum Thomas E. , Stamper Shelby
Published: December 2023

Objective

To determine the seroprevalence of serum antibodies to Sarcocystis neurona in horses residing in Ohio.

Design

Prevalence survey.

Sample Population

Serum from samples from 1,056 horses. Serum was collected on every 36th sample submitted to the Ohio State Diagnostic Laboratory for testing for equine infectious anemia.

Procedure

Serum was frozen at −80 C and analyzed for antibodies to S neurona, using a western blot. Information regarding blood sample collection, age, breed, sex, and geographic location was recorded for each horse. Data were analyzed, using multivariable logistic regression.

Results

Horses of 37 breeds from 81 of Ohio's 88 counties were included in the study population. There were 481 females, 133 males, and 442 geldings ranging in age from 3 months to 27 years; > 48% were < 5.6 years old. More than 53% of samples were seropositive for antibodies to S neurona. A gender or breed effect on seroprevalence was not identified. There was a significant effect of age (P ≤ 0.0001; with older horses more likely to be affected), and of location (statistical and extension districts; P = 0.02 and P = 0.03, respectively) on seroprevalence. Location effects appeared to be correlated to the number of days with temperatures below freezing (P < 0.05).

Clinical Implications

The high seroprevalence of antibodies to S neurona found in the sample population emphasizes the importance of examining CSF for S neurona-specific antibodies when establishing a diagnosis of equine protozoal myeloencephalitis. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1997;210:519–524)
Intussusception in cattle: 336 cases (1964-1993)
Authors: Constable P. D. , Jean G. St. , Hull B. L. , Rings D. M. , Morin D. E. , Nelson D. R.
Published: December 2023

Objective

To evaluate risk factors and to describe clinical and laboratory findings, surgical management, and postoperative outcome for cattle with intussusception.

Design

Hospital-based, case-control epidemiologic study and retrospective case series.

Sample Population

Medical records of cattle admitted to 17 veterinary medical teaching hospitals in North America.

Procedure

Epidemiologic analysis of demographic data and detailed analysis of medical records for selected cattle.

Results

336 cattle with intussusception were identified, 281 had small intestinal, 7 had ileocolic, 12 had cecocolic, and 36 had colocolic intussusceptions. Sex and season were not significantly associated with cattle developing intussusception, whereas calves < 2 months old were at greater risk of developing small intestinal intussusception than older cattle. Analysis of medical records of 57 cattle with intussusception revealed that these cattle were mildly hyponatremic, hypochloremic, hypocalcemic, azotemic, and hyperglycemic. Right flank laparotomy with a cow in a standing position, followed by intestinal resection and end-to end anastomosis, was the most common means of surgical correction. Overall survival rate (20/57; 35%) and postoperative survival rate (20/46; 43%) for cattle with intussusception were much lower than previously reported.

Clinical Implications

Although rare in cattle, intussusception was most common in calves < 2 months old. Survival rate for cattle treated for intussusception was low (<50%).
Association between pelvic muscle mass and canine hip dysplasia
Authors: Cardinet George H. , Kass Philip H. , Wallace Larry J. , Guffy Mark M.
Published: December 2023

Objective—

To investigate the relationship between pelvic muscle mass and development and expression of canine hip dysplasia (CHD).

Design—

Prospective study.

Animals—

5 Greyhounds with anatomically normal hip joints, 59 German Shepherd Dogs (23 with CHD, 24 with near-normal hip joints, and 12 with normal hip joints), and 18 German Shepherd Dog-Greyhound crossbreeds (7 with CHD, 6 with near-normal hip joints, and 5 with normal hip joints) between 12 and 47 months old in which pelvic muscle mass was evaluated. Pectineal muscle and hip joint development were evaluated in 25 German Shepherd Dogs at 8 and 16 or 24 weeks of age.

Procedures—

For evaluation of pelvic muscle mass, individual pelvic muscles were weighed and hip joints were assigned a score on the basis of severity of degenerative changes, For evaluation of pectineal muscle development, muscle sections were stained and examined.

Results—

Pelvic muscle mass was greatest in Greyhounds, intermediate in crossbred dogs, and smallest in German Shepherd Dogs. Differences in pelvic muscle mass among breeds were attributable to differences in weights of individual muscles. Hip score was negatively correlated with pelvic muscle mass and weights of selected pelvic muscles. Dogs with pectineal hypotrophy at 8 weeks of age had type-2 muscle fiber paucity or muscle fiber-type grouping at 16 or 24 weeks of age. At 8 weeks of age, hip joints were composed of multiple centers of ossification, and the acetabulum was largely cartilaginous. By 24 weeks of age, the pelvic bones were largely, although incompletely, fused.

Clinical Implications—

Diminished pelvic muscle mass in dogs with CHD and altered muscle fiber size and composition in 8-week-old dogs that subsequently develop CHD strongly suggest that abnormalities of pelvic musculature are associated with development of CHD. The complex development of the hip joint from multiple centers of ossification may make the joint susceptible to abnormal modeling forces that would result from abnormalities in pelvic muscle mass. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1997;210:1466–1473)
Effect of racing on serum sodium and potassium concentrations and acid-base status of Alaskan sled dogs
Authors: Hinchcliff Kenneth W. , Reinhart Gregory A. , Burr John R. , Schreier Curt J. , Swenson Richard A.
Published: December 2023

Objective—

To examine the effect of participation in a long-distance race on serum electrolyte concentrations, estimated exchangeable cation content, and acid-base status of Alaskan sled dogs.

Design—

Prospective study.

Animals—

9 male and 5 female, sexually intact, physically fit Alaskan sled dogs between 18 and 48 months old.

Procedure—

Body weight was recorded, and blood samples were collected from dogs before, during, and after a 300-mile race.

Results—

Serum sodium and potassium concentrations decreased during the race, as did serum total protein, albumin, and globulin concentrations and PCV. Effects on acid-base status were minimal. Body weight and estimated total exchangeable cation content in dogs also decreased significantly during the race.

Clinical Implications—

Prolonged running is associated with decreases in serum cation concentration and estimated total exchangeable cation content in dogs, as in human beings and horses. However, the mechanism of the decrease in serum cation concentration likely differs among species. Clinical abnormalities associated with cation depletion were not observed in the dogs in this study. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1997;210: 1615–1618)
Evaluation of cartilage lesions on the medial femoral condyle as a cause of lameness in horses: 11 cases (1988-1994)
Authors: Schneider Robert K. , Jenson Paul , Moore Rustin M.
Published: December 2023

Objective—

To evaluate clinical findings and response to treatment in horses in which cartilage lesions on the medial femoral condyle were a cause of lameness.

Design—

Retrospective case series.

Sample Population—

Medical records of 11 horses that had cartilage lesions on the medial femoral condyle detected during arthroscopy of the stifle.

Procedure—

Signalment, history, lameness examination, response to intra-articular anesthesia, radiographs of the stifle, observations during diagnostic arthroscopy, and treatment were extracted from the medical record of each horse. Follow-up examinations and outcome were available for all horses.

Results—

All horses in the study had lameness, but their gait improved after intra-articular injection of anesthetic. Abnormalities were not observed on radiography of the stifle. Diagnostic arthroscopy was performed on 12 affected joints in 11 horses. Cartilage was dimpled, wrinkled, and infolded, and a blunt arthroscopic probe could be inserted into the subchondral bone. In addition to focal lesions, 4 horses had generalized damage to cartilage on the medial femoral condyle. Focal cartilage lesions on the femoral condyle were debrided. In 2 horses. debridement was not performed because of extensive generalized damage to the cartilage. Six of 7 horses with focal cartilage lesions treated by debridement recovered completely and resumed previous activities.

Clinical Implications—

Cartilage lesions on the medial femoral condyle can cause lameness in performance horses. Diagnostic arthroscopy is necessary to make an accurate diagnosis. Debridement of focal cartilage lesions may allow some horses to successfully resume performance activities. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1997;210:1649–1652)
Ocular diseases of llamas: 194 cases (1980-1993)
Authors: Gionfriddo Juliet R. , Gionfriddo James P. , Krohne Sheryl G.
Published: December 2023

Objective—

To identify ocular and adnexal diseases to which llamas in North America are susceptible, to determine prevalence of these diseases in llamas, and to compare prevalences of the major ocular diseases of llamas, cattle, and horses.

Design—

Retrospective study.

Animals—

194 llamas, 4,937 cows, and 11,950 horses with ocular disease.

Procedure—

Medical records of all llamas entered into the Veterinary Medical Database between 1980 and 1993 were reviewed. Data on ocular structures affected and types of ocular disease were compiled. Prevalences of uveitis, corneal ulcers, and ocular squamous cell carcinoma in llamas were compared with prevalences in cattle and horses.

Results—

194 of 3,243 (6%) llamas had at least 1 ocular disease. The proportion of llamas that had ocular disease was significantly higher lhan the proportions of cattle or horses. The most frequently affected ocular structure in llamas was the cornea, and ulcerative keratitis was the most common comeal disease. The second most commonly affected structure was the uveal tract. Cataracts were reported in 20 (10%) of the llamas with ocular problems. Eyelid disorders, retinal diseases, glaucoma, and ocular or adnexal neoplasia were reported infrequently in llamas.

Clinical Implications—

Results suggest that corneal disease is common in llamas and is usually secondary to trauma. Uveitis may also be common in llamas, but llamas do not appear to be highly susceptible to glaucoma, ocular neoplasia, or to direct corneal invasion by bacteria such as Moraxefla sp. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1997;210:1784–1787)
Results of a combined dexamethasone suppression/thyrotropin-releasing hormone stimulation test in healthy horses and horses suspected to have a pars intermedia pituitary adenoma
Authors: Eiler Hugo , Oliver Jack W. , Andrews Frank M. , Fecteau Kellie A. , Green Eleanor M. , McCracken Malcolm
Published: December 2023

Objective—

To evaluate results of a combined dexa-methasone suppression/thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH) stimulation test in horses suspected clinically to have a pars intermedia pituitary adenoma (PIPA).

Design—

Case-control study.

Animals—

7 healthy adult horses and 5 horses suspected to have a PIPA.

Procedure—

A baseline blood sample was collected, and dexamethasone (40 μg/kg [18 μg/lb] of body weight, IV) was administered; a second blood sample was collected 3 hours later, and TRH (1.1 mg, IV) was administered; serial blood samples were collected 15, 30, 45, 60, and 90 minutes and 21 hours after TRH administration (24 hours after dexamethasone injection). Cortisol concentration was determined for all blood samples.

Results—

Baseline Cortisol concentration was significantly lower in horses suspected to have a PIPA than in healthy horses. Cortisol concentration was suppressed by dexamethasone in both groups; however, after TRH administration, Cortisol concentration returned to baseline values in horses suspected to have a PIPA, but not in healthy horses. Concentration was still less than the baseline value 24 hours after dexamethasone administration in healthy horses.

Clinical Implications—

The combined dexamethasone suppression/TRH stimulation test may be a useful diagnostic test in horses suspected to have a PIPA. For clinical application, collection of a blood sample 30 minutes after TRH administration is recommended. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1997;211:79–81)
Serum biochemical values in sled dogs before and after competing in long-distance races
Authors: Burr John R. , Reinhart Gregory A. , Swenson Richard A. , Swaim Steven E , Vaughn Dana M. , Bradley Dino M.
Published: December 2023

Objective—

To measure and compare blood values in sled dogs before and after long-distance racing.

Design—

Prospective study.

Animals—

17 adult sled dogs in the 1991 Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race and 21 in a simulated sled dog race.

Procedure—

Blood samples were obtained from 17 dogs 7 days before they began and after they finished (finisher group) or were eliminated from (nonfinisher group) the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race. Blood samples were also obtained from 21 dogs before and after a simulated sled dog race.

Results—

In finisher-group dogs, BUN and uric acid (UA) concentrations were increased after racing; nonfinisher-group dogs had significantly lower postrace BUN and UA concentrations. Significant increases in creatine kinase (CK) and aspartate transferase (AST) activities were detected in all dogs after racing, and postrace values were higher in nonfinisher-group dogs, compared with finisher-group dogs. Mean alkaline phosphate activities were significantly increased after racing in nonfinisher-group dogs only. In dogs that ran the simulated race, postrace values for serum albumin, total protein, calcium, and potassium concentrations, as well as Hct, hemoglobin concentration, and RBC count, were significantly lower than prerace values. Postrace values for alkaline phosphate, alanine transaminase, AST, lactate dehydrogenase, CK, BUN, and UA were significantly higher than prerace values.

Clinical Implications—

High CK activities are indicative of severe muscle degeneration and, in sled dogs, may represent a degree of muscle breakdown beyond which a dog cannot continue to work. Markedly high CK, and possibly AST, serum activities may be indicators of performance failure in sled dogs competing in long-distance races. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1997; 211:175–179)
Effects of castration on problem behaviors in male dogs with reference to age and duration of behavior
Authors: Neilson Jacqueline C. , Eckstein Robert A. , Hart Benjamin L.
Published: December 2023

Objective—

To determine whether 9 problem behaviors in adult male dogs were affected by castration and to examine the influence of age and duration of problem behavior on behavioral effects of castration.

Design—

Cohort study.

Animals—

57 male dogs > 2 years old at the time of castration that had ≥ 1 of the targeted problem behaviors.

Procedure—

Data were collected by telephone contact with owners to identify dogs that had ≥ 1 problem behavior before castration and to estimate the improvement (ie, decrease) in the objectionable behaviors after castration. Problem behaviors of interest included urine marking in the house, mounting, roaming, fear of inanimate stimuli, aggression toward human family members, aggression toward unfamiliar people, aggression toward other dogs in the household, aggression toward unfamiliar dogs, and aggression toward human territorial intruders.

Results—

Effects of castration on fear of inanimate stimuli or aggression toward unfamiliar people were not significant, For urine marking, mounting, and roaming, castration resulted in an improvement of ≥ 50% in ≥ 60% of dogs and an improvement of ≥ 90% in 25 to 40% of dogs. For remaining behaviors, castration resulted in an improvement of ≥ 50% in < 35% of dogs. Significant correlations were not found between the percentage of improvement and age of the dog or duration of the problem behavior at the time of castration.

Clinical Implications—

Castration was most effective in altering objectionable urine marking, mounting, and roaming. With various types of aggressive behavior, including aggression toward human family members, castration may be effective in decreasing aggression in some dogs, but fewer than a third can be expected to have marked improvement. Age of the dog or duration of the problem behavior does not have value in predicting whether castration will have a beneficial effect. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1997;211:180–182)
Urinary diagnostic indices in calves
Authors: Sommardahl Carla , Olchowy Tim , Provenza Melanie , Saxton Arnold M.
Published: December 2023

Objective—

To establish reference values for urinary diagnostic indices in healthy calves from birth to 90 days of age.

Design—

Prospective field trial.

Animals—

12 Holstein heifer calves.

Procedure—

Urine and serum samples were collected daily for the first 5 days after birth, then weekly until calves were 90 days old. Urine:serum creatinine ratio, urine:serum urea nitrogen ratio, urine:serum osmolality ratio, fractional clearances of sodium and inorganic phosphate, and urine γ-glutamyltransferase activity were measured. Data were grouped by age of calves at the time of sample collection: 1 to 5 days old (neonatal period), 7 to 27 days old (suckling period), and 28 to 90 days old (weanling period).

Results—

Mean urine:serum creatinine, urea nitrogen, and osmolality ratios were significantly higher during the weanling period than during the other 2 periods. There were no significant differences in mean fractional clearances of sodium among age periods.

Clinical Implications—

Urinary diagnostic indices calculated for these healthy calves may be used as reference values for early recognition of renal damage or renal failure. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1997;211: 212–214)
Use of propofol-isoflurane as an anesthetic regimen for cesarean section in dogs
Authors: Funkquist Pia M. E. , Nyman Görel C. , Löfgren Ann-Marie J. , Fahlbrink Eva M.
Published: December 2023

Objective—

To evaluate use of propofol-isoflurane as an anesthetic regimen for cesarean section in dogs and to compare this protocol with epidural analgesia and anesthesia induced with thiopental sodium.

Design—

Prospective study.

Animals—

141 bitches admitted for cesarean section.

Procedure—

General anesthesia was induced with propofol in 141 dogs undergoing cesarean section. After intubation, anesthesia was maintained by means of inhalation of isoflurane (0.5 to 2.0%), administered in a 65:35 mixture of oxygen:nitrous oxide. After induction, 20 minutes were allowed to elapse before delivery of puppies was begun. Viability of neonates was ascertained immediately after surgery. Owners were interviewed by telephone to determine survival of puppies during the postoperative period. Survival rates from this study were compared with those from cesarean section performed on dogs under epidural analgesia or under general anesthesia induced with thiopental sodium.

Results—

Induction, maintenance, and recovery were problem free in all bitches. Of 412 puppies delivered by cesarean section, 293 (71%) survived, 13 (3%) were born alive but died within 20 minutes of delivery, and 106 (26%) were stillborn. Survival rate for puppies from dams induced with propofol-isoflurane was similar to that for puppies from dams receiving epidural analgesia. Survival rate for puppies delivered by cesarean section performed on dams under general anesthesia was higher for dams induced with propofol than for dams induced with thiopental sodium.

Clinical Implications—

General anesthesia induced with propofol and maintained with isoflurane is acceptable for performing cesarean section in dogs,. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1997;211:313–317)
Zinc-responsive dermatosis in northern-breed dogs: 17 cases (1990–1996)
Authors: Colombini Sarah , Dunstan Robert W.
Published: December 2023

Objective—

To determine the response rate of zinc-responsive dermatosis to zinc supplementation, the optimal dosage of zinc required for resolution of lesions, the rate of recurrence of lesions, and to develop recommendations for maintenance dosages of zinc to be administered to dogs with this type of zinc-responsive dermatosis.

Design—

Retrospective case series.

Animals—

17 northern-breed dogs with a diagnosis of zinc-responsive dermatosis.

Procedure—

Histologic evaluation of skin biopsy specimens and review of medical records. Additional information was obtained from veterinarians and owners via a telephone questionnaire.

Results—

In 12 of 17 dogs, lesions were unilateral initially, then became symmetrical as the disease progressed. Pyoderma was evident in 5 of 17 dogs, whereas 10 were pruritic. Most lesions initially developed between September and April, and 12 of 17 dogs developed lesions in February, October, and November. Initial dosages of zinc supplement ranged from 0.8 to 4.6 mg/kg of body weight/d (0.36 to 2.09 mg/lb/d). Effective/maintenance dosages ranged from 0.5 mg/kg (0.23 mg/lb), twice weekly, to 8.0 mg/kg/d (3.6 mg/lb/d). Fifteen of 17 dogs had complete resolution of lesions after zinc supplementation. Lesions recurred in 9 of 16 dogs. Approximately half of the recurrent lesions were a result of a missed dose or a decrease in dosage or frequency of zinc supplementation.

Clinical Implications—

An initial dosage of zinc supplement of 1.0 mg of elemental zinc/kg (0.45 mg of elemental zinc/lb), PO, every 24 hours is recommended. Treatment should be continued for 1 month to determine response to treatment, and the daily dosage should be increased by 50% if the initial dosage is not effective. Dogs are prone to recurrence of lesions if a dose of zinc is missed or the dosage or frequency is decreased. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1997;211:451–453)
Aseptic loosening of the femoral implant after cemented total hip arthroplasty in dogs: 11 cases in 10 dogs (1991–1995)
Authors: Edwards Michael R. , Egger Erick L. , Schwarz Peter D.
Published: December 2023

Objective

To determine clinical signs, radiographic findings, results of surgical management, and potential causes of aseptic loosening of the femoral implant (ALFI) in dogs that have undergone cemented total hip arthroplasty (THA).

Design

Retrospective study.

Animals

11 cases of ALFI in 10 dogs.

Procedure

Medical records of all dogs undergoing THA revision surgery were reviewed. Only dogs with ALFI were included. The prosthesis and cement were removed by creating a longitudinal osteotomy of the cranial femoral cortex. Postoperative radiographs of all dogs that underwent THA during the study period were reviewed.

Results

The most common clinical sign was intermittent, subtle, or non–weight-bearing lameness. On radiographs obtained after THA, contact of the distal stem tip with cortical endosteum was evident in all dogs. Radiographic changes at the time of diagnosis of ALFI included asymmetric periosteal reaction along the femoral diaphysis, radiolucent lines between the prosthesis and cement, altered implant position, and femoral fracture. Surgical revision yielded good or excellent results in 9 cases. In 1 dog, the implant became infected; in another, aseptic loosening recurred. Aseptic loosening was significantly more common in dogs in which there was contact between the distal stem tip and cortical endosteum than in dogs in which there was no contact.

Clinical Implications

ALFI is an uncommon, but important, complication of THA, and radiography is warranted in dogs with clinical signs of ALFI. Initial centering of the prosthetic stem within the femoral shaft may reduce the incidence of ALFI. (J Am Vet Med Assoc 1997;211:580–586)