bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Atypical Parapoxvirus Infection in Sheep
Authors: Smith Geoffrey W. , Scherba Gail , Constable Peter D. , Hsiao Vincent , Behr Melissa J. , Morin Dawn E.
Published: March 2010

This report describes the clinical and laboratory findings for 5 sheep from 3 different flocks with extensive proliferative skin lesions grossly resembling warts on the distal limbs. The lesions affected the front and rear extremities in all sheep, and 2 sheep also had lesions around the head. The sheep exhibited signs of pain when the lesions were touched, and most sheep were reluctant to move. Various empirical treatments, including systemic antibiotics, topical antibiotics, and antifungal ointments, were administered without clinical improvement. Diagnostic tests including skin biopsy and histopathology, examination of skin scrapings, bacteriology, mycology, electron microscopy of lesions, and immunohistochemical analysis demonstrated that the lesions were the result of parapoxvirus infection. All 5 animals were euthanized either because of the lack of resolution of clinical signs or a decision by the owner. These animals illustrate an atypical presentation of parapoxvirus infection in sheep (orf, contagious ecthyma, and scabby mouth). The infection appeared to be minimally contagious; however, the lesions did not spontaneously resolve. This appears to be the 1st report of such lesions in multiple sheep in North America, although similar lesions have been reported in Israel and the United Kingdom.
Prognostic Factors for Mortality and Thromboembolism in Canine Immune‐Mediated Hemolytic Anemia: A Retrospective Study of 72 Dogs
Authors: Carr Anthony P. , Panciera David L. , Kidd Linda
Published: March 2010

Medical records of 72 dogs diagnosed with immune‐mediated hemolytic anemia (IMHA) were reviewed to find risk factors for the disease, for mortality, and for thromboembolism. Coagulation data of 32 patients were evaluated for mortality or thromboembolism risk factors. Cocker Spaniels were at increased risk for IMHA (P= .012). Timing of vaccination was not associated with development of IMHA. PCV ranged from 5 to 33%, with a mean of 16 ± 5%. Autoagglutination was present in 42% of the dogs. Platelet counts (n = 60) varied from 3,000 to 793,000/μL (mean, 160,117 ± 133,571; median, 144,000). Thrombocytopenia (platelet count, <200,000/μL) was present in 70% of the dogs, with severe thrombocytopenia (platelet count, <50,000/μL) being present in 22%. One‐step prothrombin time (OSPT) was prolonged in 28% of the dogs tested, and activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT) was prolonged in 47% of the dogs tested. Fibrin(ogen) degradation products (FDPs) were detected in 16 of 28 dogs tested (57%). Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) was diagnosed in 10 of 31 (32%) dogs and was suspected in 8 dogs. Thromboemboli were found in 20 of 25 dogs given postmortem examinations. Mortality rate was 58%. Thrombocytopenia (P= .008) and serum bilirubin concentration of >5 mg/dL (P= .015) were risk factors for mortality, and hypoalbuminemia approached significance (P= .053). Severe thrombocytopenia (P= .046), serum bilirubin concentration of >5 mg/dL (P= .038), and hypoalbuminemia (P= .016) were risk factors for thromboembolism. On evaluation of continuous data, decreased platelet count (P= .057), increased bilirubin (P= .062), and decreased albumin (P= .054) approached significance for decreased survival. A higher risk for thrombosis was found with increased alkaline phosphatase (ALKP) (P= .042), increased bilirubin (P= .047), and decreased albumin (P= .012).
Influence of Glucose Dosage on Interpretation of Intravenous Glucose Tolerance Tests in Lean and Obese Cats
Authors: Hoenig M. , Alexander S. , Holson J. , Ferguson D.C.
Published: March 2010

Intravenous glucose tolerance tests (IVGTTs) are used in cats and other species to assess insulin sensitivity. Several dosages have been reported but the dosage that maximally stimulates insulin secretion in cats has not been determined nor has it been compared in lean and obese animals. IVGTTs were performed in 4 lean and 4 obese spayed female cats with 5 glucose dosages: 0.3 (A), 0.5 (B), 0.8 (C), 1.0 (D), and 1.3 (E) g/kg body weight (BW). Each cat received each dosage in a random design. The glucose disposal rate was significantly different only between lean and obese cats at the highest glucose dosage. The area under the curve for insulin increased significantly among A, B, C, and D in lean and among A, B, and C in obese cats but not between D and E in lean and among C, D, and E in obese cats. Baseline insulin secretion was significantly higher (P= .03) and 1st peak insulin secretion was approximately 50% lower in obese as compared to lean cats (P= .03). Lean but not obese cats reached baseline insulin concentrations at all dosages at 120 minutes. We conclude that the glucose dosage for maximal insulin secretion is 1.0 g/ kg BW in lean and 0.8 g/kg BW in obese cats, supporting routine use of 1 g/kg BW to maximally stimulate insulin secretion regardless of body composition. Obese cats showed an abnormal insulin secretion pattern, indicating a defect in insulin secretion with obesity and insulin resistance.
Percutaneous Balloon Pericardiotomy as a Treatment for Recurrent Pericardial Effusion in 6 Dogs
Authors: Sidley J.A. , Atkins C.E. , Keene B.W. , DeFrancesco T.C.
Published: March 2010

Percutaneous balloon pericardiotomy (PBP) has been performed in people and in a small number of dogs as a treatment for recurrent pericardial effusion with tamponade (PET). We performed this technique on 6 dogs with recurrent PET (5 with heart base tumors and 1 with no identifiable mass). Under general anesthesia and fluoroscopic guidance, a balloon‐dilating catheter (diameters 14–20 mm) was introduced percutaneously at the 5th intercostal space through a sheath‐introducing catheter, positioned across the parietal pericardium, and inflated 3 times. No dog experienced serious complications. The procedure was considered successful in 4 of 6 dogs. One dog is still alive without recurrence of PET 1 year after the procedure. Three dogs died of unrelated disease without recurrence of PET 5, 19, and 32 months after the procedure. The procedure was not beneficial in 1 dog that was euthanized 9 weeks later because of recurrence of pleural and abdominal effusion thought to be secondary to PET One dog may have temporarily benefited but developed symptomatic PET 6 months after PBP. PBP appears to be a safe, economical, and potentially effective palliative treatment for recurrent PET and is a reasonable, less invasive alternative to surgery for dogs with recurrent PET, especially effusions caused by heart base tumors and possibly idiopathic pericardial effusion. Premature closure of the stoma is a potential cause for long‐term failure and was thought to have been responsible for the recurrence of clinical signs in 2 dogs.
Dynamic Right Ventricular Outflow Obstruction: A New Cause of Systolic Murmurs in Cats
Authors: Rishniw Mark , Thomas William P.
Published: March 2010

We have identified and characterized a new cause of variable parasternal systolic murmurs in cats. Color Doppler echocardiography of 51 cats presented for evaluation of a cardiac murmur demonstrated a localized, turbulent systolic jet located within the right ventricular (RV) outflow region, originating just cranial to the tricuspid valve. Spectral Doppler tracings of the turbulent jets showed abnormally high peak velocity, late systolic flow acceleration, and marked variability with heart rate, typical of dynamic stenosis. Frame‐by‐frame examination of 2‐dimensional (2D) echocardiographic images after color Doppler subtraction revealed systolic apposition of the RV free wall with the interventricular septum at the origin of the turbulent jets. Therefore, we termed this turbulent flow pattern “dynamic right ventricular obstruction” (DRVO). Most cats with DRVO were >4 years old (45 of 51, 88%) and initially presented with concurrent noncardiac disease (73%). Noncardiac diseases associated with DRVO in older cats included high cardiac output states (hyperthyroidism, anemia, and inflammatory disease) and chronic renal failure with and without systemic hypertension. Of the 45 cats >4 years old, 4 (9%) had no evidence of any other cardiac or noncardiac disease. In contrast, 5 of 6 cats (83%) <4 years old had concurrent cardiac disease. No breed predisposition was identified. Follow‐up examination of 10 cats demonstrated no change in the disorder in 8 cats but revealed the disappearance of the murmur and abnormal RV Doppler flow signal in 2 cats after renal transplantation. We propose that DRVO is a physiologic cause of systolic murmurs in cats attributable to RV systolic narrowing.
Prospective Clinical Evaluation of Serum Cardiac Troponin T in Dogs Admitted to a Veterinary Teaching Hospital
Authors: DeFrancesco Teresa C. , Atkins Clarke E. , Keene Bruce W. , Coats Julie R. , Hauck Marlene L.
Published: March 2010

The purpose of this study was to measure serum cardiac troponin T (cTnT) with a commercially available human enzyme‐linked immunoassay (ELISA) test in various groups of dogs, including those undergoing doxorubicin chemotherapy. Serum samples were obtained from 6 groups of dogs: (1) normal adult dogs (n = 15); (2) dogs with asymptomatic dilated cardiomyopathy (n = 5); (3) dogs with congestive heart failure (n = 10); (4) dogs with untreated neoplasia (n = 20); (5) dogs with skeletal muscle trauma (n = 10); and (6) dogs with neoplasia receiving doxorubicin chemotherapy (n = 4). One serum sample was obtained from each of the normal dogs, those with asymptomatic cardiomyopathy, those with congestive heart failure, and those with untreated neoplasia. Serum samples were obtained serially from the dogs that were undergoing doxorubicin chemotherapy; samples were collected before doxorubicin (30 mg/m2) administration and then 1,5,7, and 14 days after administration throughout 6 cycles for a cumulative total dose of 180 mg/m2. All normal dogs, dogs with untreated neoplasia, and dogs with asymptomatic dilated cardiomyopathy had cTnT concentrations below the lower limits of detection for the assay used (<0.05 ng/mL). Detectable concentrations of cTnT were found in 3 dogs with congestive heart failure and in 2 dogs with skeletal muscle trauma. Detectable concentrations also were found in both dogs that had received 180 mg/m2of doxorubicin. We conclude that dogs with congestive heart failure and those with skeletal muscle trauma and dogs with neoplasia receiving high‐dose doxorubicin chemotherapy may have increased serum cTnT concentration, which may be suggestive of myocardial damage.
Endostatin Concentrations in Healthy Dogs and Dogs with Selected Neoplasms
Authors: Jr John H. Rossmeisl , Bright Patricia , Tamarkin Lawrence , Simpson Byron W. , Troy Gregory C. , Hueston William , Ward Daniel L.
Published: March 2010

Endostatin prevents angiogenesis and tumor growth by inhibiting endothelial cell proliferation and migration. The purpose of this study was to determine serum endostatin concentrations in 53 healthy dogs and in 38 dogs with confirmed malignant neoplasms. Endostatin concentration was determined with a competitive enzymatic immunoassay (EIA) with rabbit polyclonal antibody generated against a recombinant canine endostatin protein. Both the presence of cancer and increasing age were associated with increased serum concentration of endostatin. Endostatin concentration in healthy dogs was 87.7 ± 3.5 ng/mL. Upper and lower limits of the reference range for serum endostatin concentration in healthy dogs were 60 and 113 ng/mL. Dogs with lymphoma (LSA) and hemangiosarcoma (HSA) had endostatin concentrations of 107 ± 9.3 ng/mL. In conclusion, this study demonstrates that endostatin can be quantified in dogs and that endostatin concentrations are high in dogs with HSA and LSA.
Neutropenia Associated with Vincristine and L‐Asparaginase Induction Chemotherapy for Canine Lymphoma
Authors: Northrup Nicole C. , Rassnick Kenneth M. , Snyder Laura A. , Stone Michael S. , Kristal Orna , Cotter Susan M. , Moore Antony S.
Published: March 2010

Vincristine (VCR) and L‐asparaginase (L‐ASP) are commonly used to treat canine lymphoma. As single agents, these drugs are not myelosuppressive. However, in combination, VCR and L‐ASP cause severe neutropenia in some dogs. It has been recommended that L‐ASP be administered 12–24 hours after VCR to minimize toxicity. The purpose of this retrospective study was to determine the prevalence of neutropenia after VCR/l‐ASP induction therapy for canine lymphoma and to evaluate risk factors for myelosup‐pression, especially the interval between VCR and L‐ASP administration. Medical records of 147 dogs were reviewed. L‐ASP was given 0 (n = 50), 6 (n = 23), 18 (n = 20), or 24 (n = 54) hours after VCR. Forty percent of the dogs were neutropenic 7 days after VCR/L‐ASP, and 18% had neutrophil counts of <l,000 cells/μL. The median neutrophil count was 3,712 cells/μL (range 0— 30,968 cells/μL). No correlation was found between administration interval and day 7 neutrophil count (P= .84) or development of gastrointestinal signs, including vomiting (P= .80), diarrhea (P= .52), and decreased appetite (P= .30). No significant predictors of neutropenia were identified. Higher clinical stage and substage b were associated with decreased appetite after treatment (P= .04 and .01, respectively). Sixteen percent of the dogs were hospitalized. This study demonstrates that VCR/L‐ASP induction for canine lymphoma may result in neutropenia but that separation of VCR and L‐ASP administration may not be necessary to avoid toxicity.
Effect of Intravenous Mannitol upon the Resistive Index in Complete Unilateral Renal Obstruction in Dogs
Authors: Choi Hojung , Won Sungjun , Chung Woojo , Lee Kichang , Chang Dongwoo , Lee Heechun , Eom Kidong , Lee Youngwon , Yoon Junghee
Published: March 2010

Some studies have shown that relative to baseline, the renal resistive index (RI) remains unchanged in nonobstructed kidneys and increases in obstructed kidneys after administration of furosemide. To our knowledge, the effect of mannitol administration on the renal RI of dogs has not been reported. We evaluated the renal RI in 16 kidneys in 8 young adult dogs after administration of mannitol. The mean RI decreased significantly from baseline (P < .01). Additionally, left complete ureteral obstruction was induced in 5 dogs. Evaluation by Doppler ultrasonography was performed for 5 days. On the 5th day, Doppler examination was repeated at 30 and 60 minutes after administration of mannitol to obstructed dogs. After induction of left ureteral obstruction, the RI of the left kidney increased significantly over 5 consecutive days. Administration of mannitol decreased the RI in the nonobstructed contralateral kidneys, and thus the RI difference between obstructed and nonobstructed kidneys was increased above normal (P < .001). In conclusion, administration of mannitol may be useful as another diuretic agent to identify unilateral ureteral obstruction on Doppler sonographic examination.
Cardiac Output Technologies with Special Reference to the Horse
Authors: Corley Kevin T.T. , Donaldson Lydia L. , Durando Mary M. , Birks Eric K.
Published: March 2010

Critical illness, anesthesia, primary cardiovascular disease, and exercise may result in marked hemodynamic alterations. Measuring cardiac output (CO) is central to defining these alterations for both clinician and researcher. In the past 10 years, several new methods of measuring CO have been developed for the human medical market. Some of these methods are now validated in the horse and are in clinical use. The Fick method has been used in equine research for more than a century. It depends on simultaneous measurement of mixed venous (pulmonary arterial) and peripheral arterial oxygen content and oxygen uptake by the lungs. The technique is technically demanding, which restricts its clinical use. Indicator dilution techniques, with indocyanine green, cold (thermodilution), or lithium as the marker, have also been widely used in the horse. The indocyanine technique is cumbersome, and thermodilution requires right heart catheterization, which is not a benign procedure, making both of these methods less than ideal for clinical use. Lithium dilution requires catheterization of a peripheral artery and a jugular vein. It has recently been validated in anesthetized adult horses and neonatal foals. Doppler echocardiography is a noninvasive ultrasound‐based technique. More accurate measurements are obtained with transesophageal than with transthoracic measurements; however, both methods require considerable technical expertise. Bioimpedance and pulse contour analysis are 2 new methods that have yet to be validated in the horse. With the currently available technology, lithium dilution appears to be the method of measuring CO best suited to the equine clinic.
Adjuvants in Veterinary Vaccines: Modes of Action and Adverse Effects
Authors: Spickler Anna R. , Roth James A.
Published: March 2010

Vaccine adjuvants are chemicals, microbial components, or mammalian proteins that enhance the immune response to vaccine antigens. Interest in reducing vaccine‐related adverse effects and inducing specific types of immunity has led to the development of numerous new adjuvants. Adjuvants in development or in experimental and commercial vaccines include aluminum salts (alum), oil emulsions, saponins, immune‐stimulating complexes (ISCOMs), liposomes, microparticles, nonionic block copolymers, deriv‐atized polysaccharides, cytokines, and a wide variety of bacterial derivatives. The mechanisms of action of these diverse compounds vary, as does their induction of cell‐mediated and antibody responses. Factors influencing the selection of an adjuvant include animal species, specific pathogen, vaccine antigen, route of immunization, and type of immunity needed.
A Scoring Index for Disease Activity in Canine Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Authors: Jergens Albert E. , Schreiner C. Alan , Frank Dagmar E. , Niyo Yosiya , Ahrens Franklin E. , Eckersall P.D. , Benson Tammy J. , Evans Richard
Published: March 2010

The clinical course of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) in dogs is characterized by spontaneous exacerbations and remissions, which makes assessment of disease burden difficult. The objectives of this study were to develop a scoring system for evaluation of canine IBD activity and to validate this scoring method by correlating it to objective laboratory and histologic indices of intestinal inflammation. Fifty‐eight dogs with IBD were evaluated prospectively and compared to 9 disease‐free control dogs. Clinical disease activity was quantified by a simple scoring system, the canine IBD activity index (CIBDAI), and compared to serum concentrations of C‐reactive protein (CRP), haptoglobin (HAP), a‐acid glycoprotein (AGP), and serum amyloid A (SAA), as well as histology scores derived from endoscopic biopsy specimens. Forty‐six dogs were available for a reevaluation of the CIBDAI, CRP, HAP, and AGP, and 34 dogs had repeat analysis of SAA performed after medical therapy. Serum concentrations of CRP were significantly (P<.02) increased in dogs with CIBDAI scores ≥5 (mild disease activity or greater) compared to controls. Among IBD dogs, the CIBDAI showed good correlation (r = 0.82, P<.0001) to both histology and HAP scores, but CRP also was a strong co‐correlate of disease activity. The IBD dogs showed significantly (P<.0001) decreased CIBDAI and CRP values but significantly (P<.0001) increased HAP concentrations after medical therapy compared to pretreatment values. We conclude that the CIBDAI is a reliable measure of inflammatory activity in canine IBD and that CRP is suitable for laboratory evaluation of the effect of therapy in these patients.
Diazepam as a Treatment for Metronidazole Toxicosis in Dogs: A Retrospective Study of 21 Cases
Authors: Evans Jason , Levesque Donald , Knowles Kim , Longshore Randy , Plummer Scott
Published: March 2010

The currently recommended treatment for metronidazole toxicosis is drug discontinuation and supportive therapy. Reported recovery times are 1–2 weeks. The records of 21 dogs with metronidazole toxicosis were retrospectively analyzed to determine whether diazepam improved recovery. The dosage and duration of metronidazole therapy and the response and recovery times of 13 dogs treated with diazepam were compared to those of 8 dogs receiving only supportive care. Response time was defined as the time to resolution of the debilitating clinical signs. Recovery time was the time to resolution of all residual clinical signs. The average dosage and duration of metronidazole administration for the diazepam‐treated and untreated groups were 60.3 mg/kg/d for 44.9 days and 65.1 mg/kg/d for 37.25 days. The protocol for diazepam administration consisted of an initial IV bolus and then diazepam PO q8h for 3 days. The average dosage of both the IV and PO diazepam was 0.43 mg/kg. The average response time for the diazepam‐treated dogs was 13.4 hours compared to 4.25 days for the untreated group. Recovery time also was markedly shorter for the diazepam‐treated dogs (38.8 hours) compared to the untreated group (11 days). Results of this study showed that dogs with metronidazole toxicosis recover faster when treated with diazepam. Although the mechanism of metronidazole toxicosis or how diazepam exerts its favorable effect is not known, it is likely related to modulation of the ‐y‐aminobutyric acid (GABA) receptor within the cerebellar and vestibular systems.
Clinical Characteristics and Inheritance of Idiopathic Epilepsy in Vizslas
Authors: Patterson Edward E. , Mickelson James R. , Da Yang , Roberts Monica C. , McVey Alistair S. , O'Brien Dennis P. , Johnson Gary S. , Armstrong P. Jane
Published: March 2010

Medical record, seizure survey, and telephone interview information was obtained for 29 Vizslas with idiopathic epilepsy (IE), 74 unaffected siblings, and 41 parents to determine the common clinical characteristics and most likely mode of inheritance. IE was diagnosed on the basis of the age of seizure onset, laboratory results, and neurologic examination findings. Computerized tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan with cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis was required for the inclusion of dogs with an age of seizure onset of <6 months or > 5 years. Simple segregation analysis was performed with an ascertainment correction and chi‐square analysis. IE appeared to be familial in these pedigrees, with 79% of affected Vizslas exhibiting partial onset seizures. Partial seizure signs included a combination of limb tremors, staring, pupillary dilatation, or salivation without loss of consciousness in > 50% of the dogs with partial signs. The estimated segregation frequency of P = .22 (95% CI, P = .08 to .36) was consistent with autosomal recessive inheritance; however, polygenic inheritance could not be excluded as a possibility. Simulated linkage with FASTSLINK estimated that the average logarithm of odds (LOD) score would be 3.23 with a 10‐centi‐morgan (cM) whole‐genome scan for these families, indicating that these families would be useful for a whole‐genome scan to potentially find the chromosomal segment(s) containing the epilepsy gene or genes. We conclude that IE in Vizslas appears to be primarily a partial onset seizure disorder that may be inherited as an autosomal recessive trait.
Feline Epitheliotropic Intestinal Malignant Lymphoma: 10 Cases (1997–2000)
Authors: Carreras Janet K. , Goldschmidt Micheal , Lamb Martin , McLear Robert C. , Drobatz Kenneth J. , Sørenmo Karin U.
Published: March 2010

The clinical, histopathologic, and immunohistochemical features of 10 cats with epitheliotropic intestinal malignant lymphoma (EIL) are described. Intestinal biopsy samples were reviewed by 3 pathologists to confirm the diagnosis of EIL. These samples (n = 10) were compared to the intestinal biopsies of normal cats (n = 11), cats with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD; n = 7), and cats with non‐EIL (n = 9) for quantification and immunophenotyping of intraepithelial lymphocytes. Immunophenotypic studies were performed with CD3 and CD79a antibody stains to assess for T‐ and B‐cell immunoreactivity, respectively. EIL biopsies had markedly more intraepithelial lymphocytes than normal intestine (NRL) and samples from cats with IBD. However, no marked difference was observed in the number of intraepithelial lymphocytes in cats with non‐EIL compared to cats with EIL. Regardless of the histologic diagnosis, the intraepithelial lymphocytes in all cats were small‐ to intermediate‐sized T cells. Clinical findings and imaging studies in the cats identified minimal or nonspecific findings in affected cats. Most cats fit the typical profile of cats with IBD or alimentary malignant lymphoma. Nine of 10 cats with EIL were treated with prednisone with or without additional chemotherapy. Four cats were refractory to chemotherapy and were euthanized within 3.5 months. The remaining 5 cats had long‐term survival times of 11 months or greater. The median survival time was 11 months. Additional studies are warranted to better characterize EIL and its relationship to IBD in cats and non‐EIL and to identify optimal treatment strategies for this disease. Key words: Alimentary; Cancer; Cats; Gastrointestinal; Lymphosarcoma.
Persistent Urinary Tract Infections and Reinfections in 100 Dogs (1989–1999)
Authors: Seguin M. Alexis , Vaden Shelly L. , Altier Craig , Stone Elizabeth , Levine Jay F.
Published: March 2010

A retrospective study was performed of 100 dogs with persistent urinary tract infections (UTIs) or reinfections presenting to the North Carolina State University (Raleigh, NC) Veterinary Teaching Hospital between 1989 and 1999. Criteria for selection included ≥ 2 positive urine cultures within a 6‐month period. Signalment, presence of predisposing disorders, urinalysis and urine culture results, and treatment strategies were extracted from the medical records. Dogs were a median age of 7 years when the UTI was 1st diagnosed. Dogs younger than 3 and older than 10 years were at increased and decreased risks, respectively, for reinfections or persistent UTIs. Spayed females were more common in the UTI population. More than half of the dogs were asymptomatic for a UTI at 1st presentation. Urine sediment examinations identified hematuria, pyuria, and bacteriuria in 47, 72, and 85% of the samples, respectively. The most commonly isolated organisms wereEscherichia coliandStreptococcus/Enterococcusspp.; multiple isolates also were common. Of the isolates, 29.5% were resistant to achievable serum concentrations of all antibiotics commonly prescribed for PO administration. Dogs with abnormal micturition were more likely to have infections by organisms resistant to commonly prescribed antibiotics. Potentially predisposing disorders were identified in 71 dogs. A correction of these disorders was accomplished in 35% of these 71 dogs. Dogs given standard antibiotic therapy without addressing predisposing disorders experienced poor control of their UTIs; 74.5% of these dogs had an apparent disease‐free interval (ADFI) of <8 weeks. By comparison, dogs in which predisposing disorders were corrected or those that were treated with low‐dose, long‐term antibiotic regimens subjectively had better control.
Clinicopathologic Findings Associated withLagenidiumsp. Infection in 6 Dogs: Initial Description of an Emerging Oomycosis
Authors: Grooters Amy M. , Hodgin E. Clay , Bauer Rudy W. , Detrisac Carol J. , Znajda Nadine R. , Thomas Randall C.
Published: March 2010

An oomycotic pathogen in the genusLagenidiumwas isolated from tissues obtained from 6 dogs with progressive cutaneous disease. Initial clinical findings in 5 dogs included multifocal cutaneous lesions, subcutaneous lesions, or both associated with regional lymphadenopathy; the 6th dog initially was presented for evaluation of mandibular lymphadenopathy. Cutaneous lesions were ulcerated, exudative regions (often with necrosis and draining tracts) or multiple firm dermal or subcutaneous nodules. Two dogs subsequently developed hemoabdomen from great vessel rupture and died acutely. Four dogs were euthanized because of progression of subcutaneous lesions or lymphadenopathy. On postmortem examination, regional granulomatous lymphadenitis was found in all 6 dogs, great vessel invasion in 3 dogs, pulmonary lesions in 2 dogs, ureteral obstruction in 1 dog, mediastinal lymphadenitis in 1 dog, and hilar lymphadenitis with invasion of the distal esophagus and trachea in 1 dog. Histologically, lesions were similar to those associated with pythiosis and zygomycosis and were characterized by severe eosinophilic granulomatous inflammation (often with numerous large multinucleated giant cells) centered around broad (7–25 /L), infrequently septate hyphae. Immunoblot analysis of the serologic response of 4 dogs to a soluble mycelial extract ofLagenidium giganteumindicated that each dog's serum recognized at least 10 different antigens ofL giganteum.Culture of infected tissues yielded rapid growth of colorless to white submerged colonies. Microscopically, mature hyphae in culture were broad (25–40/L),segmented, and occasionally branching and produced motile laterally biflagellate zoospores in water culture. This report is the 1st description of infection caused by an oomycete other thanPythium insidiosumin any mammalian species.
Clinical Findings in 40 Dogs with Hypersensitivity Associated with Administration of Potentiated Sulfonamides
Authors: Trepanier Lauren A. , Danhof Rebecca , Toll Jeffrey , Watrous Deborah
Published: March 2010

The purpose of this study was to summarize the clinical findings in 40 dogs with systemic hypersensitivity reactions associated with the administration of potentiated sulfonamides. Dogs ranged from 6 months to 14 years of age, with a mean of 5.7 ± 3.2 years. Spayed female dogs were overrepresented (24 of 40, or 60% of the dogs), as were Samoyeds (3 of 40; 8%) and Miniature Schnauzers (5 of 40; 13%). Mean dosages of potentiated sulfonamides were 47.0 ± 14.9 mg/kg/d (range, 23.4–81.4 mg/kg/d). The time from the 1st administration of the drug to the onset of the clinical signs of hypersensitivity ranged from 5 to 36 days, with a mean of 12.1 ± 5.9 days. There was no relationship between either the dosage or type of sulfonamide given and the time to the onset of the clinical signs. Fever was the most common clinical sign observed (55% of the dogs); thrombocytopenia was 2nd (54%), and hepatopathy (28%) was 3rd. Neutropenia, keratoconjunctivitis sicca (KCS), hemolytic anemia, arthropathy, uveitis, skin and mucocutaneous lesions, proteinuria, facial palsy, suspected meningitis, hypothyroidism, pancreatitis, facial edema, and pneumonitis were also observed in some patients. Of 39 dogs with adequate follow‐up, 30 (77%) recovered, whereas 8 (21%) either died or were euthanized, and 1 recovered clinically but had persistent increases in alanine aminotransferase (ALT) activity. Dogs with hepatopathy generally had a poorer prognosis (46% recovery) than dogs without hepatopathy (89% recovery;P =.0035). Sixty‐three percent of the dogs with thrombocytopenia recovered, compared to 90% of the dogs without thrombocytopenia(P= .042). Recovery was not associated with sex, age, breed, or type of sulfonamide administered.
M‐Mode Echocardiographic Ratio Indices in Normal Dogs, Cats, and Horses: A Novel Quantitative Method
Authors: Brown Donald J. , Rush John E. , MacGregor John , Ross James N. , Brewer Barbara , Rand William M.
Published: March 2010

A novel method for quantitative echocardiographic interpretations is introduced based on the calculation of ratio indices in which each raw M‐mode measurement is divided by the aortic root dimension (Ao). “Aorta‐based” indices were calculated with the animal's measured aortic root dimension (Aom) as the length standard. Conversely, “weight‐based” indices employed an idealized estimate of aortic dimension (Aow) with a weighted least squares linear regression against the cube root of body weight (Aow=kW1/3). Use of these indices circumvented undesirable statistical characteristics inherent in linear regression of echocardiographic dimensions against body weight and, to a lesser extent, body surface area. Compared with the regressions, ratio indices resulted in substantial refinement of the predictive range for each M‐mode measurement in dogs, particularly with decreasing body size. Weight‐based indices outperformed aorta‐based indices in this regard. To refine the predictive range, neither type of index was clearly advantageous in cats compared with the simple average method typically employed for that species. Several of the raw M‐mode measurements, however, were correlated with body weight in cats and horses, indicating the need for an appropriate correction for body size in these species. The ratio index method was suitable for this purpose. Summary statistics derived from normal dogs (n = 53), cats (n = 32), and horses (n = 17) are presented for each index, including novel clinical indices calculated from area ratios. The latter were designed to represent body size‐adjusted left ventricular stroke area (ie, volume overload) and myocardial wall area (ie, hypertrophy).
Noninvasive Transthoracic Temporary Cardiac Pacing in Dogs
Authors: DeFrancesco Teresa C. , Hansen Bernard D. , Atkins Clarke E. , Sidley Jennifer A. , Keene Bruce W.
Published: March 2010

Temporary cardiac pacing is used in the emergency treatment of life‐threatening bradyarrhythmias and for the support of heart rate and blood pressure of patients with sick sinus syndrome or high‐grade atrioventricular (AV) block undergoing general anesthesia, typically for permanent pacemaker implantation. We retrospectively evaluated the safety and efficacy of a noninvasive transthoracic external cardiac pacing system in 42 dogs treated for bradyarrhythmias. Optimal placement of the patch electrodes on the skin of the thorax was initially established on 2 anesthetized normal dogs. The optimal electrode placement was determined to be on the right and left hemithoraces, directly over the heart. Afterward, by means of this electrode placement, all 42 dogs treated for bradyarrhythmias in this study were successfully paced with the noninvasive transthoracic system. Dogs ranged in age from 1 to 15 years and weighed between 3.2 and 40 kg. Miniature Schnauzers, German Shepherds, and mixed breeds were most common in the study population. Indications for noninvasive transthoracic pacing included emergency treatment of hemodynamically unstable 3rd‐degree AV block (2 dogs); support of heart rate during general anesthesia for permanent pacemaker implantation or lead‐wire adjustment (38 dogs); and support of heart rate during general anesthesia for ophthalmologic surgery in dogs with sick sinus syndrome (2 dogs). Complications included pain and skeletal muscle stimulation, which required general anesthesia. We conclude that the noninvasive transthoracic pacing system evaluated is satisfactory for clinical veterinary use.
Decreased Platelet Function in Cavalier King Charles Spaniels with Mitral Valve Regurgitation
Authors: Tarnow Inge , Kristensen Annemarie T. , Texel Helle , Olsen Lisbeth H. , Pedersen Henrik D.
Published: March 2010

With aggregometry, increased platelet activity has been reported in Cavalier King Charles Spaniels (CKCS) without mitral regurgitation (MR). In contrast, dogs with MR have been found to have decreased platelet activity. The purpose of this study was to test an easy bedside test of platelet function (the Platelet Function Analyzer [PFA‐100]) to see if it could detect an increase in platelet activity in CKCS without MR and a decrease in platelet activity in CKCS with MR. This study included 101 clinically healthy dogs 1 year of age: 15 control dogs of different breeds and 86 CKCS. None of the dogs received medication or had a history of bleeding. The PFA‐100 evaluates platelet function in anticoagulated whole blood under high shear stress. Results are given as closure times (CT): the time it takes before a platelet plug occludes a hole in a membrane coated by agonists. The CT with collagen and adenosine‐diphosphate as agonists was similar in control dogs (median 62 seconds; interquartile interval 55–66 seconds) and CKCS with no or minimal MR (55; 52–64 seconds). The CT was higher in CKCS with mild MR (regurgitant jet occupying 15–50% of the left atrial area) (75; 60–84 seconds;P= .0007) and in CKCS with moderate to severe MR (jet 50%) (87; 66–102 seconds;P< .0001). CKCS with mild, moderate, and severe, clinically inapparent MR have decreased platelet function. The previous finding of increased platelet reactivity in nonthrombocytopenic CKCS without MR could not be reproduced with the PFA‐100 device.
Biologic Behavior and Prognostic Factors for Mast Cell Tumors of the Canine Muzzle: 24 Cases (1990–2001)
Authors: Gieger Tracy L. , Theon Alain P. , Werner Jonathan A. , McEntee Margaret C. , Rassnick Kenneth M. , DeCock Hilde E.V.
Published: March 2010

The medical records of 24 dogs with histologically confirmed mast cell tumors (MCT) of the muzzle were retrospectively evaluated to determine their biologic behavior and prognostic factors. Information on signalment, tumor grade and stage, treatment methods, and pattern of and time to failure and death was obtained from the medical record. Twenty‐three dogs were treated with combinations of radiotherapy, surgery, and chemotherapy; 1 dog received no treatment. There were 2 Grade I, 15 Grade II, and 7 Grade III tumors. Tumors were stage 0 (n = 8), stage 1 (5), stage 2 (6), stage 3 (4), and stage 4 (1). Mean and median survival times of treated dogs were 36 and 30 months, respectively. Prognostic factors affecting survival time included tumor grade and presence of metastasis at diagnosis. Dogs with Grade I and II tumors survived longer than dogs with Grade III tumors. Variables, including sex, age, gross versus microscopic disease, and treatment type were not found to affect survival. Local control rate was 75% at 1 year and 50% at 3 years. Tumor grade was the only variable found to affect local control. Dogs with Grade I tumors had longer disease‐free intervals than those with Grade II tumors, and dogs with Grade II tumors had longer disease‐free intervals than dogs with Grade III tumors. Eight of 9 dogs dying of MCT had local or regional disease progression. Muzzle MCT are biologically aggressive tumors with higher regional metastatic rates than previously reported for MCT in other sites. Key words: Canine skin tumors; Mastocytosis; Metastasis.
Effect of Dietary Starch, Fat, and Bicarbonate Content on Exercise Responses and Serum Creatine Kinase Activity in Equine Recurrent Exertional Rhabdomyolysis
Authors: McKenzie Erica C. , Valberg Stephanie J. , Godden Sandra M. , Pagan Joe D. , MacLeay Jennifer M. , Geor Ray J. , Carlson Gary P.
Published: March 2010

To determine the effect of dietary starch, bicarbonate, and fat content on metabolic responses and serum creatine kinase (CK) activity in exercising Thoroughbreds with recurrent exertional rhabdomyolysis (RER), 5 RER horses were fed 3 isocaloric diets (28.8 Mcal/d [120.5 MJ/d]) for 3 weeks in a crossover design and exercised for 30 minutes on a treadmill 5 days/wk. On the last day of each diet, an incremental standardized exercise test (SET) was performed. The starch diet contained 40% digestible energy (DE) as starch and 5% as fat; the bicarbonate‐starch diet was identical but was supplemented with sodium bicarbonate (4.2% of the pellet); and the fat diet provided 7% DE as starch and 20% as fat. Serum CK activity before the SET was similar among the diets. Serum CK activity (log transformed) after submaximal exercise differed dramatically among the diets and was greatest on the bicarbonate‐starch diet (6.51 ± 1.5) and lowest on the fat diet (5.71 ± 0.6). Appreciable differences were observed in the severity of RER among individual horses. Postexercise plasma pH, bicarbonate concentration, and lactate concentration did not differ among the diets. Resting heart rates before the SET were markedly lower on the fat diet than on the starch diet. Muscle lactate and glycogen concentrations before and after the SET did not differ markedly among the diets. A high‐fat, low‐starch diet results in dramatically lower postexercise CK activity in severely affected RER horses than does a low‐fat, high‐starch diet without measurably altering muscle lactate and glycogen concentrations. Dietary bicarbonate supplementation at the concentration administered in this study did not prevent increased serum CK activity on a high‐starch diet.
Short‐Term Compatibility Of Furosemide With Crystalloid Solutions
Authors: Adin Darcy B. , Hill Richard C. , Scott Karen C.
Published: March 2010

Parenteral veterinary furosemide is a 50‐mg/mL solution with a pH of 8.0–9.3. The purpose of this study was to determine whether a commonly used veterinary formulation of 50 mg/mL of furosemide solution could be diluted in vitro without precipitation. Furosemide 50 mg/mL was diluted to concentrations of 10 and 5 mg/mL with 5% dextrose in water (D5W), 0.9% saline, lactated Ringer solution (LRS), and sterile water. Acidic sterile water and basic sterile water solutions were made by the addition of hydrochloric acid and sodium hydroxide, respectively, for use as controls to assess the effect of pH extremes for each concentration. After furosemide dilution, the final pH of each sample was measured, and samples were grossly and microscopically examined for clarity and crystal formation immediately and 1, 3, 5, and 8 hours after dilution. Gross precipitation and microscopic crystals were immediately observed in the acidic controls. Solutions of 5 mg/mL in LRS and 0.9% saline became slightly cloudy immediately, but no crystals were observed microscopically for 8 hours. Solutions of 10 mg/mL in D5W, 0.9% saline, LRS, and sterile water and solutions of 5 mg/mL in D5W and sterile water and the basic control were grossly clear, and no microscopic crystals were observed for 8 hours. On the basis of the results obtained in this in vitro investigation, this veterinary formulation of furosemide 50 mg/mL can be diluted without precipitation to a concentration of 10 mg/mL with D5W, 0.9% saline, LRS, or sterile water and to 5 mg/mL with D5W or sterile water and held for 8 hours.
Myelopathy in Holstein X Gir Calves in Brazil
Authors: Borges Alexandre Secorun , Mendes Luiz Claudio Nogueira , Luvizotto Maria Cecília Rui , Summers Brian , de Lahunta Alexander
Published: March 2010

This case report contains clinical and pathologic features of a degenerative myelopathy in Holstein X Gir crossbred calves in Brazil. The bilateral and symmetrical spinal cord white matter lesions were interpreted as a primary axonopathy that may be of the dying‐back type.
Dynamic Computed Tomography of the Pituitary Gland in Dogs with Pituitary‐Dependent Hyperadrenocorticism
Authors: van der Vlugt‐Meijer Roselinda H. , Meij Björn P. , van den Ingh Ted S.G.A.M. , Rijnberk Ad , Voorhout George
Published: March 2010

Dynamic computed tomography (CT) of the pituitary gland was performed in 55 dogs with pituitary‐dependent hyperadrenocorticism (PDH) that underwent transsphenoidal hypophysectomy. On routine contrast‐enhanced CT images, microadenomas of the pituitary gland often are indistinguishable from nontumorous pituitary tissue because of isoattenuation. Dynamic CT may allow visualization of these adenomas. The changes in the contrast‐enhancement pattern of the pituitary during dynamic CT in 55 dogs with PDH were correlated with surgical and histopathologic findings. In 36 dogs, dynamic CT identified distinct contrast enhancement of the neurohypophysis (pituitary flush). In 24 dogs, this pituitary flush was displaced, which indicated the presence of an adenoma. This observation was confirmed surgically and histopathologically in 18 of the 24 dogs. In 19 dogs, there was a diffusely abnormal contrast‐enhancement pattern. CT findings agreed with surgical findings in 13 of these dogs and with histopathologic findings in all 19 dogs. It is concluded that a dynamic series of scans should be included in the CT protocol of the pituitary gland in dogs with PDH because it allows for identification of an adenoma or a diffusely abnormal pituitary gland.
Comparison of Different Tests to Diagnose Feline Infectious Peritonitis
Authors: Hartmann Katrin , Binder Christina , Hirschberger Johannes , Cole Dana , Reinacher Manfred , Schroo Simone , Frost Jens , Egberink Herman , Lutz Hans , Hermanns Walter
Published: March 2010

Clinical data from 488 cats (1979–2000) with histopathologically confirmed feline infectious peritonitis (FIP) and 620 comparable controls were evaluated retrospectively to assess the value of several diagnostic tests frequently used in the evaluation of cats with suspected FIP. Diagnostic utility of serum albumin to globulin ratio for the diagnosis of FIP was greater than of the utility of serum total protein and ‐/‐globulin concentrations. Diagnostic utility of these variables was higher when performed on effusion. On effusion, positive and negative predictive values of Rivalta's test, a test that distinguishes between exudates and transudates (0.86 and 0.97), anti‐coronavirus antibody detection (0.90 and 0.79), and immunofluorescence staining of coronavirus antigen in macrophages (1.00 and 0.57) were investigated. The positive and negative predictive values of presence of anti‐coronavirus antibodies were 0.44 and 0.90, respectively, antibody concentrations (1:1,600) were 0.94 and 0.88, presence of immune complexes measured by a competitive enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay were 0.67 and 0.84, and detection of viral RNA by serum reverse‐transcrip‐tase polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR) were 0.90 and 0.47. Effusion RT‐PCR was performed in 6 cats; it was positive in all 5 cats with FIP and negative in the cat with another disease. Diagnostic assays on the fluid in cats with body effusion had good predictive values. Definitive diagnosis of FIP on the basis of measurement of various variables in serum was not possible. Serum tests can only be used to facilitate the decision for more invasive diagnostic methods.
Prevalence of Chlamydophila felis and Feline Herpesvirus 1 in Cats with Conjunctivitis in Northern Italy
Authors: Rampazzo A. , Appino S. , Pregel P. , Tarducci A. , Zini E. , Biolatti B.
Published: March 2010

The prevalence ofChlamydophila felisand feline herpesvirus 1(FHV‐1)infection in cats with conjunctivitis in northern Italy was investigated by conventional polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing. In cats with conjunctivitis,C felisand FHV‐1 were detected in 14 of 70 (20%) and in 23 of 70 (33%) animals, respectively. None of the 35 control cats were positive forC felis, whereas 7 (20%) of these cats were positive for FHV‐1. Mixed infections were present in 5 of 70 cats (7%). Cats positive forC feliswere significantly younger than control animals(P =.02), whereas no significant age differences were observed between FHV‐1‐positive cats and control cats (P= .41) or between FHV‐1‐positive animals andCfelispositive animals(P= .16). Cats sampled during acute‐phase conjunctivitis were also investigated for the presence ofC felisby conjunctival scrapings. In this acute phase, substantial agreement was found when comparing the results of the 2 methods (K = .80). The association between PCR results and conjunctivitis was evaluated for the 2 pathogens. The presence ofC feliswas significantly associated with conjunctivitis (P=.004), whereas the detection of FHV‐1 did not significantly correlate with the clinical sign (P=.25), suggesting that, by itself, PCR is not suitable for the diagnosis of FHV‐1‐related conjunctivitis.