bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diet Modulates Proteinuria in Heterozygous Female Dogs with X‐Linked Hereditary Nephropathy
Authors: Burkholder William J. , Lees George E. , LeBlanc Amy K. , Slater Margaret R. , Bauer John E. , Kashtan Clifford E. , McCracken Barbara A. , Hannah Steven S.
Published: March 2010

Young adult heterozygous (carrier) female dogs with X‐linked hereditary nephropathy (XLHN) have glomerular proteinuria but are otherwise healthy. Because data regarding dietary influences on the magnitude of proteinuria in dogs with spontaneous glomerular disease are not available, 12 such dogs were studied in a double crossover experiment intended to determine effects of altering dietary protein intake for up to 6 weeks. Dogs were blocked by urine protein: creatinine ratio (UPC) and randomly assigned to receive 2 diets: high protein (34.6% dry matter [DM], HP) or low protein (14.1% DM, LP) fed in HP‐LP‐HP or LP‐HP‐LP sequence. Food intake was measured daily, body weight (BW) was measured twice weekly, and UPC, plasma creatinine, blood urea nitrogen, phosphorus, albumin, and protein concentrations were measured at 2‐week intervals. Nutrient digestibility was measured during the third treatment period. Diet had a significant effect(P <.0001) on all measured variables except plasma phosphorus(P> .5), but unintended differences in digestibility of protein and energy(P≤ .01) prevented assignment of the diet effect exclusively to protein. Proteinuria was greater (UPC 4.7 ± 2.2 versus 1.8 ± 1.1,P< .0001) when the HP diet was fed, but the LP diet did not maintain starting BW or plasma albumin concentration within the normal reference range. Diet greatly affects the magnitude of proteinuria in XLHN carrier females. Dietary protein restriction can reduce proteinuria in dogs with glomerular disease, but BW and blood protein concentrations may not be maintained if the restriction is too severe.
Antinociceptive Effects of Hydromorphone, Butorphanol, or the Combination in Cats
Authors: Lascelles B. Duncan X. , Robertson Sheilah A.
Published: March 2010

The goal of this study was to assess the antinociceptive activity of a single dose of hydromorphone or butorphanol and to examine the effect of their coadministration on thermal thresholds in cats. Thermal thresholds were measured after IM administration of hydromorphone (0.1 mg/kg), butorphanol (0.4 mg/kg), a combination of butorphanol and hydromorphone (0.4 and 0.1 mg/kg), or saline to each of 6 cats in a randomized, blinded, crossover study design. There were at least 12 days between treatments. Thermal thresholds were measured by a thorax‐mounted thermal threshold‐testing device specifically developed for cats. Thermal thresholds were measured before treatment, at varying intervals to 12 hours, and at 24 hours after treatments. Data were analyzed by an analysis of variance with a repeat factor of time. Dysphoria was associated with butorphanol administration but not with hydromorphone or hydromorphone‐butorphanol combined administration. Vomiting was seen with hydromorphone but not with butorphanol or hydromorphone‐butorphanol combined. The control treatment group was stable over time(P=.22; mean threshold, 40.1oC). Thresholds were significantly(P<05) higher than the control treatment between 15 and 165 minutes for butorphanol, between 15 and 345 minutes for hydromorphone, and between 15 and 540 minutes for hydromorphone‐butorphanol combined. The addition of butorphanol to hydromorphone decreased the intensity of antinociception during the 1st 2 hours but extended the duration of observable antinociception from 5.75 to 9 hours. The present study suggests that the combination of butorphanol and a pure OP3 (mu) receptor agonist clinically does not produce increased analgesia and indeed may result in decreased analgesia.
Cerebellar Cortical Degeneration in Adult American Staffordshire Terriers
Authors: Olby Natasha , Blot Stephane , Thibaud Jean‐Laurent , Phillips Jeff , O'Brien Dennis P. , Burr Jeanne , Berg Jason , Brown Talmage , Breen Matthew
Published: March 2010

Adult‐onset cerebellar cortical degeneration recently has been reported in American Staffordshire Terriers. We describe the clinical and histopathologic features of this disease and examine its mode of inheritance in 63 affected dogs. The age at which neurologic deficits 1st were recognized varied from 18 months to 9 years, with the majority of dogs presented to veterinarians between 4 and 6 years of age. Time from onset of clinical signs to euthanasia varied from 6 months to 6.5 years, with the majority of affected dogs surviving from 2 to 4 years. Initial neurologic findings included stumbling, truncal sway, and ataxia exacerbated by lifting the head up and negotiating stairs. Signs progressed to obvious ataxia characterized by dysmetria, nystagmus, coarse intention tremor, variable loss of menace reaction, marked truncal sway, and falling with transient opisthotonus. With continued progression, dogs became unable to walk without falling repeatedly. Cerebellar atrophy was visible on magnetic resonance images and on gross pathology. Histopathologic findings included marked loss of Purkinje neurons with thinning of the molecular and granular layers and increased cellularity of the cerebellar nuclei. The closest common ancestor of the dogs was born in the 1950s and inheritance was most consistent with an autosomal recessive mode of transmission with a prevalence estimated at 1 in 400 dogs. This inherited disease is comparable to the group of diseases known as spinocerebellar ataxias in humans. Many spinocerebellar ataxias in humans are caused by nucleotide repeats, and this genetic aberration merits investigation as a potential cause of the disease in American Staffordshire Terriers.
Serum Concentrations of Tumor Necrosis Factor‐a in Neonatal Calves with Presumed Septicemia
Authors: Basoglu Abdullah , Sen Ismail , Sevinc Mutlu , Simsek Atilla
Published: March 2010

This study was performed to determine the concentrations of tumor necrosis factor (TNF) in the serum of neonatal calves with presumed sepsis and determine the correlation between serum concentrations of TNF and the severity and outcome of disease. Thirty‐five sick calves <30 days old that suffered from enteritis, respiratory disease, or both were considered suitable for inclusion in this study by satisfying clinical and laboratory criteria suggestive of septicemia. At admission, blood samples were collected from all calves to determine the prevalence of high concentrations of TNF. The clinical course and outcome of disease then were recorded. Of the 35 calves with presumed sepsis, 10 had high serum TNF concentrations. Scleral injection, weak or absent suckling reflex, sternal or lateral recumbency, unresponsive or comatose state, and death rate of calves with high serum TNF concentration were greater than those values for calves without high serum TNF concentration. Calves with high serum TNF concentration had significantly lower mean IgG(P <.001), globulin(P <.0001), and calcium(P <.0001) concentrations; greater serum creatinine concentrations(P <.0001); and>2+toxic changes in neutrophils than did calves without high serum TNF concentrations. Mean values for packed cell volume, band neutrophil count, and venous PCO2were significantly(P <.007) higher in the group of calves with high serum TNF concentration. Results of this study indicate that serum TNF concentration is correlated with clinical criteria of sepsis in neonatal calves. A close association was apparent between disease severity and serum TNF concentrations in this group of calves with presumed septicemia.
Digital Fluoroscopic Excretory Urography, Digital Fluoroscopic Urethrography, Helical Computed Tomography, and Cystoscopy in 24 Dogs with Suspected Ureteral Ectopia
Authors: Samii Valerie F. , McLoughlin Mary A. , Mattoon John S. , Drost Wm. Tod , Chew Dennis J. , DiBartola Stephen P. , Hoshaw‐Woodard Stacy
Published: March 2010

The purpose of this study was to determine the diagnostic utility of helical computed tomography (CT) for the diagnosis of ectopic ureters in the dog and to compare these findings with those of digital fluoroscopic excretory urography and digital fluoroscopic urethrography. Ureteral ectopia was confirmed or disproved based on findings from cystoscopy and exploratory surgery or postmortem examination. Of 24 dogs (20 female, 4 male) evaluated, 17 had ureteral ectopia. Digital fluoroscopic excretory urography and CT correctly identified ureteral ectopic status and site of ureteral ectopia(P <.05). Urethrography did not reliably detect ureteral ectopia. No false‐positive diagnoses of ureteral ectopia were made in any of the imaging studies. Cystoscopic findings significantly agreed with findings during surgery in determining ureteral ectopic status and ectopic ureter site. One false‐positive cystoscopic diagnosis of unilateral ureteral ectopia was made in a male dog. Kappa statistics showed better agreement between CT and both cystoscopy and surgical or postmortem examination findings with regard to presence and site of ureteral ectopia compared with other imaging techniques. CT was more useful than other established diagnostic imaging techniques for diagnosing canine ureteral ectopia.
DNA Testing for Type III von Willebrand Disease in Dutch Kooiker Dogs
Authors: van Oost Bernard A. , Versteeg Serge A. , Slappendel Robbert J.
Published: March 2010

Von Willebrand disease type III is widespread in Dutch Kooiker dogs. To eradicate von Willebrand disease from the breed, affected dogs and nonsymptomatic carriers must be excluded from breeding. Previous efforts to detect carriers in Kooiker dogs by a von Willebrand factor antigen assay were not satisfactory because of considerable overlap of plasma concentrations in normal dogs and carriers. The aim of this study was to develop and apply a DNA test for the detection of von Willebrand disease carriers in the Kooiker breed. Two mutations in the von Willebrand factor gene in affected Kooiker dogs have been described previously, a splice site mutation at the border of intron 16 and exon 16 and a missense mutation in exon 3. We have developed polymerase chain reaction tests for both mutations in genomic DNA. The missense mutation most likely is a neutral variant and appears to be a polymorphism present in many breeds. The allele‐specific oligonucleotide test for the splice site mutation was applied in the selection of animals cleared to breed by the Dutch breeding club. In a few years, the mutation has been eliminated from the breeding stock without apparent increase of inbreeding or preferential sire usage.
Association of Systemic Hypertension with Renal Injury in Dogs with Induced Renal Failure
Authors: Finco Delmar R.
Published: March 2010

Systemic hypertension is hypothesized to cause renal injury to dogs. This study was performed on dogs with surgically induced renal failure to determine whether hypertension was associated with altered renal function or morphology. Mean arterial pressure (MAP), heart rate (HR), systolic arterial pressure (SAP), and diastolic arterial pressure (DAP) were measured before and after surgery. Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and urine protein: creatinine ratios (UPC) were measured at 1, 12, 24, 36, and 56–69 weeks after surgery, and renal histology was evaluated terminally. The mean of weekly MAP, SAP, and DAP measurements for each dog over the 1st 26 weeks was used to rank dogs on the basis of MAP, SAP, or DAP values. A statistically significant association was found between systemic arterial pressure ranking and ranked measures of adverse renal responses. When dogs were divided into higher pressure and lower pressure groups on the basis of SAP, group 1 (higher pressure, n = 9) compared with group 2 (lower pressure, n = 10) had significantly lower GFR values at 36 and 56–69 weeks; higher UPC values at 12 and 56–69 weeks; and higher kidney lesion scores for mesangial matrix, tubule damage, and fibrosis. When dogs were divided on MAP and DAP values, group 1 compared with group 2 had significantly lower GFR values at 12, 24, 36, and 56–69 weeks; higher UPC values at 12 and 56–69 weeks; and higher kidney lesion scores for mesangial matrix, tubule damage, fibrosis, and cell infiltrate. These results demonstrate an association between increased systemic arterial pressure and renal injury. Results from this study might apply to dogs with some types of naturally occurring renal failure.
Thoracic Duct Ligation and Pericardectomy for Treatment of Idiopathic Chylothorax
Authors: Fossum Theresa W. , Mertens Michelle M. , Miller Matthew W. , Peacock John T. , Saunders Ashley , Gordon Sonya , Pahl Galen , Makarski Lori A. , Bahr Anne , Hobson Phil H.
Published: March 2010

Chylothorax is a devastating disease, and the success rates from either medical or surgical management are less than satisfactory. In some animals with chylothorax, a thickening of the pericardium occurs that is associated with chronic irritation induced by chyle. We hypothesized that pericardial thickening would lead to increased right‐sided venous pressures and that abnormal venous pressures would act to impede the drainage of chyle via lymphaticovenous communications after thoracic duct (TD) ligation. We also hypothesized that serosanguineous effusions that occurred after TD ligation could effectively be treated or prevented by pericardectomy in affected animals. TD ligation plus pericardectomy was performed in 17 animals, and pericardectomy alone was performed in an additional 3 animals that presented during a 5.5‐year period to the Texas A&M University (College Station, TX). Nineteen animals presented for an evaluation of idiopathic chylothorax (9 dogs and 10 cats), and 1 dog presented for serosan‐guineous pleural fluid after TD ligation that had been performed elsewhere. Echocardiography was normal in all animals, except for a subjectively thickened pericardium in 7 cats and 6 dogs. Clinical signs of pleural fluid accumulation resolved in 10 of 10 dogs and in 8 of 10 cats after surgery. The overall success rate for the surgical treatment of chylothorax (ie, the resolution of pleural fluid accumulation) in this study was 90% (100% in dogs and 80% in cats). These data suggest that TD ligation in conjunction with pericardectomy has a favorable outcome in animals with idiopathic chylothorax.
Allometric Scaling of M‐Mode Cardiac Measurements in Normal Adult Dogs
Authors: Cornell Craig C. , Kittleson Mark D. , Torre Paul Della , Häggström Jens , Lombard Christophe W. , Pedersen Henrik D. , Vollmar Andrea , Wey Aaron
Published: March 2010

Indices for M‐mode measurements in dogs usually have been based on the assumption that a linear relationship exists between these measurements and body weight (BW) or body surface area (BSA). The relationships between the geometry of 3‐dimensional objects do not support this assumption. The purposes of this study were to retrospectively examine M‐mode data from a large number of dogs of varying sizes and breeds that were examined by a large number of ultrasonographers, to use the allometric equation to determine the appropriate BW exponent required to predict these cardiac dimensions, and to determine normal mean values and prediction intervals for common M‐mode variables. Linear regression analyses of data from 494 dogs (2.2–95 kg) revealed a good correlation between M‐mode measurements and BW after logarithmic transformation of the data (r2= .55‐.88). Most variables were most closely related to an index of body length, BW1/3, although the exponent that best predicted diastolic and systolic left ventricular wall thicknesses was closer to 0.25. No variable indexed well to BW or BSA. With these data, appropriate mean values and prediction intervals were calculated for normal dogs, allowing veterinarians to correctly and appropriately index M‐mode values. The equations developed from this study appear to be applicable to adult dogs of most breeds.
Cardiac Troponins I and T in Dogs with Pericardial Effusion
Authors: Shaw Scott P. , Rozanski Elizabeth A. , Rush John E.
Published: March 2010

Cardiac troponin I (cTnI) and cardiac troponin T (cTnT) are sensitive and specific markers for myocardial ischemia and necrosis. Dogs with pericardial effusion frequently have myocardial ischemia and necrosis, and these changes are more severe in dogs with hemangiosarcoma (HSA). We investigated the utility of using serum cTnI and cTnT concentrations to identify the idiopathic pericardial effusion from that associated with HSA. Blood samples for measurement of cTnI and cTnT concentrations were collected before pericardiocentesis in 37 dogs with pericardial effusion. Eighteen dogs had a mass consistent with HSA, 6 dogs had idiopathic pericardial effusion, 1 dog had mesothelioma, and 1 dog had a heart base tumor. No final diagnosis was achieved for 11 dogs. Dogs with pericardial effusion had significantly higher serum concentrations of cTnI (P <.001) but not cTnT (P = .16) than did normal dogs. Dogs with HSA had significantly higher concentrations of cTnI (2.77 ng/dL; range: 0.09–47.18 ng/dL) than did dogs with idiopathic pericardial effusion (0.05 ng/dL; range: 0.03‐0.09 ng/dL) (P < .001). There was no difference in the concentration of cTnT between dogs with HSA and those with idiopathic pericardial effusion (P = .08). Measurement of cTnI may be useful in helping to distinguish between idiopathic pericardial effusion and pericardial effusion caused by HSA. Key words: Biomarkers; Canine; Hemangiosarcoma; Mesothelioma; Neoplasia.
Phenytoin Sodium as a Treatment for Ventricular Dysrhythmia in Horses
Authors: Wijnberg Inge D. , Ververs F.F.T.
Published: March 2010

Five adult horses with ventricular extra systoles (VES) and 2 with ventricular tachycardia (VT) refractory to treatment with rest, anti‐inflammatory drugs, lidocaine, or procainamide were treated with phenytoin sodium PO q12h. The starting dosage of phenytoin was 20 or 22 mg/kg body weight (BW) q12h, and the maintenance dosage varied from 8 to 17 mg/kg BW q12h. The mean ± standard deviation therapeutic blood concentration of total phenytoin was 8.8 ± 2.1 mg/L, and the mean concentration of free phenytoin of 2.5 ± 0.5 mg/L was relatively constant at a range of 24 to 29% of the total phenytoin concentration. In all horses, both VES and VT were abolished after treatment with phenytoin. On the basis of the results of this clinical study, the authors propose an initial dose of 20 mg/kg BW q12h for the first 3 or 4 dosages, followed by a maintenance dose of 10 to 15 mg/kg BW q12h. Phenytoin plasma concentrations should be monitored during therapy. High plasma concentrations were associated with adverse effects such as recumbency and excitement. In this study, which included a limited number of diverse patients, phenytoin sodium appeared to be an inexpensive and effective treatment for persistent VES or VT in cases where conventional treatment had failed.
Inheritance of Urinary Calculi in the Dalmatian
Authors: Bannasch D.L. , Ling G.V. , Bea J. , Famula T.R.
Published: March 2010

Dalmatians are unique among dogs in that they excrete uric acid in their urine as the end product of purine metabolism rather than allantoin as do other breeds of dogs. Urinary calculi form from urate (salts of uric acid) and can cause urethral obstruction in male Dalmatians. Although all Dalmatians have the primary defect, only a subset develops clinical disease. We postulated that calculi formation might have a genetic component that segregates within the breed, causing some animals to form calculi and others to never form calculi despite excreting uric acid in their urine. We used a survey to ascertain the urinary calculi status based on clinical signs of adult Dalmatians aged 6 years or older, and we used pedigrees from these same animals to estimate the heritability of the clinical manifestation of urate calculi within the breed to be .87 (.75–.96). The prevalence of the disease was 34% (24.99–43.70%) among male Dalmatians in our survey. The high heritability of the disease makes it possible for breeders to effectively select against the disease.
Localization of Pancreatic Inflammation and Necrosis in Dogs
Authors: Newman Shelley , Steiner Jörg , Woosley Kristen , Barton Linda , Ruaux Craig , Williams David
Published: March 2010

Few studies of the prevalence of histologic lesions of the exocrine pancreas in dogs have been reported, and none of them systematically evaluate the localization of these lesions. The purpose of this study was to describe the anatomic localization of pancreatic inflammation, necrosis, and fibrosis in dogs presented for postmortem examination. Seventy‐three pancreata from dogs presented for postmortem examination were evaluated and investigated for the presence of suppurative inflammation (SI), pancreatic necrosis (PN), and lymphocytic inflammation (LI). Sections that showed evidence of SI, PN, or LI also were evaluated for pancreatic fibrosis (F). The tendency for a preferred localization for SI, PN, and LI was evaluated by chi‐square analysis. A total of 47 pancreata with histologic evidence of pancreatitis (SI, PN, or LI; F alone was not considered evidence of pancreatitis) were identified. Twenty‐four (51.1%) had SI, 23 (48.9%) had PN, and 34 (72.3%) had LI. Of the 47 dogs with SI, PN, or LI, 28 (59.6%) had F. The distribution of SI, PN, and LI between the right and the left limb of the pancreas and among the 5 anatomic regions was random, based on a goodness‐of‐fit test. We conclude that pancreatic inflammation tends to occur in discrete areas within the pancreas rather than diffusely throughout the whole organ. These findings suggest that a single biopsy is insufficient to exclude subclinical pancreatitis and that there is no preferred site for pancreatic biopsy collection unless gross lesions are apparent.
Tracheal Signs and Associated Vascular Anomalies in Dogs with Persistent Right Aortic Arch
Authors: Buchanan James W.
Published: March 2010

Medical records of 55 dogs with 1 or more vascular rings around the esophagus and trachea were reviewed to determine the nature and frequency of related vascular anomalies and to determine the reliability of tracheal deviation on radiographs for the diagnosis of persistent right aortic arch (PRAA). Fifty‐two (95%) of the 55 dogs had PRAA. Of the 52 dogs with PRAA, 44% had coexisting compressive arterial anomalies: 17 had retroesophageal left subclavian artery and 6 had double aortic arch with atretic left arch. Characteristic tracheal deviation was consistently present in dogs with PRAA. Moderate or marked focal leftward curvature of the trachea near the cranial border of the heart in dorsoventral (DV) or ventrodorsal (VD) radiographs was found in 100% of available radiographs of 27 dogs with PRAA. Moderate or marked focal narrowing of the trachea also was noted in 74% of DV or VD radiographs and 29% of lateral radiographs of the dogs. Tracheal position in 30 of 30 dogs with megaesophagus and 62 of 63 control dogs was midline or rightward in VD or DV radiographs. Histology in a neonatal dog with PRAA revealed evidence of tracheal deviation and compression even before birth. Focal leftward deviation of the trachea near the cranial border of the heart in DV or VD radiographs is a reliable sign of PRAA in young dogs that regurgitate after eating solid food, and contrast esophagrams are not necessary to confirm the diagnosis of vascular ring compression.
Meningioangiomatosis in Young Dogs: A Case Series and Literature Review
Authors: Bishop Todd M. , Morrison James , Summers Brian A. , DeLahunta Alexander , Schatzberg Scott J.
Published: March 2010

Meningioangiomatosis (MA) is a proliferative disorder of the central nervous system (CNS) that has been reported rarely in humans and sporadically in dogs. Meningioangiomatosis may occur in the brainstem or cervical spinal cord of young dogs and can be identified tentatively by magnetic resonance imaging. The histopathologic hallmark of MA is a leptomeningeal plaque that extends along the CNS microvasculature and invades the adjacent neural parenchyma. This case series describes the neurologic signs, clinical progression, diagnostic imaging, and neuropathology of 4 dogs with MA. The 4 dogs with MA are compared and contrasted with 4 previously reported cases in dogs as well as with their human counterpart.
Clinical Use of Blood Products in Cats: A Retrospective Study (1997–2000)
Authors: Castellanos Ivanov , Couto C. Guillermo , Gray Toni L.
Published: March 2010

The records of the Transfusion Medicine Service of the Veterinary Teaching Hospital at The Ohio State University were searched for client‐owned cats that received whole blood (WB), packed red blood cells (PRBCs), or fresh frozen plasma (FFP) transfusions between December 1, 1997, and April 1, 2000. Eighty‐one cats received 112 units of blood products, consisting of 49 units of WB (administered to 35 cats), 44 units of PRBCs (administered to 34 cats), and 19 units of FFP (administered to 13 cats); 10 cats received more than 1 product each. Anemia was the most common reason for transfusing RBC‐containing blood products, requiring 33 units of WB (75%) and 39 units of PRBCs (80%). The 2 most common causes of anemia were blood loss (27%) and renal disease (20%). Hypoalbuminemia (n = 9) and coagulopathies (n = 6), primarily due to liver disease (n = 7), were the 2 most common reasons for cats to receive transfusions of FFP. There were no differences in increase in PCV after administration of either 1 unit of WB or 1 unit of PRBCs(P= .22). Transfusion reactions occurred in 3 cats; 2 reactions were mild febrile events, but a fatal reaction occurred when a type B cat inadvertently received type A blood.
Alternating Carboplatin and Doxorubicin as Adjunctive Chemotherapy to Amputation or Limb‐Sparing Surgery in the Treatment of Appendicular Osteosarcoma in Dogs
Authors: Kent Michael S. , Strom Adam , London Cheryl A. , Seguin Bernard
Published: March 2010

Thirty‐two dogs with appendicular osteosarcoma treated by amputation or limb sparing had adjuvant chemotherapy of alternating doses of carboplatin (300 mg/m2IV) and doxorubicin (30 mg/m2IV) every 21 days for a total of 3 cycles. Efficacy, toxicity, and previously identified prognostic factors for osteosarcoma were evaluated. The median progression free survival was 227 days (range 180–274), and the median overall survival was 320 days (range 153–487). The 1‐year survival rate was 48%, and the 2‐year survival rate was 18%. Age, sex, surgical procedure, and alkaline phosphatase activity above the reference ranges were not prognostic for survival. There was minimal toxicity associated with the chemotherapy. This protocol could be useful for the adjuvant treatment of appendicular osteosarcoma of dogs.
Transdermal Fentanyl Combined with Nonsteroidal Anti‐Inflammatory Drugs for Analgesia in Horses
Authors: Thomasy S.M. , Slovis N. , Maxwell L.K. , Kollias‐Baker C.
Published: March 2010

This study investigated the pharmcokinetics, efficacy, and safety of the fentanyl transdermal therapeutic system (TTS) in horses in which there was an inadequate analgesic response to nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) alone. Nine horses with pain that was refractory to therapeutic doses of phenylbutazone (n = 3) or flunixin meglumine (n = 6) subsequently also received between 39 and 110 μg/kg of transdermal fentanyl. Blood samples were collected at 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 12, 24, 36, 48, 60, and 72 hours after patch application, and a radioimmunoassay was used to determine serum fentanyl concentrations. Pharmacokinetic values were determined by noncompartmental analysis. Physical examination findings were recorded in all horses, and pain and lameness grading systems were used to assign scores to 8 and 6 horses, respectively. All horses tolerated the administration of fentanyl TTS, in that no clinically significant adverse effects attributable to fentanyl were observed. Use of the TTS resulted in variable serum concentrations of fentanyl, with a peak serum concentration of 2.2 1.1 ng/mL (mean ± SD) and a time to peak serum concentration of 26 ± 13 hours. After transdermal fentanyl administration, mean time to reach serum fentanyl concentrations consistent with analgesia in other species (1 ng/mL) was 14 hours. In addition, serum fentanyl concentrations of 1 ng/mL or greater were maintained in all but one horse for at least 18 hours. Pain scores were significantly decreased after fentanyl TTS and NSAID administration (P< .05), but lameness scores were not significantly different (P± .05). Overall, administration of fentanyl TTS had a favorable pharmacokinetic profile in horses with clinical pain, and the fentanyl TTS in combination with NSAIDs appeared to provide safe and effective analgesia in most of the horses with pain that was refractory to NSAID therapy alone.
The Diagnostic and Prognostic Value of Alkaline Phosphatase Activity in Serum and Peritoneal Fluid from Horses with Acute Colic
Authors: Saulez Montague N. , Cebra Christopher K. , Tornquist Susan J.
Published: March 2010

Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) is an enzyme present in intestinal mucosa, bile, bone, and renal tubule cells. We sought to assess the diagnostic and prognostic relationships of total ALP (ALPt) activity and that of intestine‐derived ALP (ALPi) in serum and peritoneal fluid of 126 horses with colic. ALPt and ALPiactivities were measured in both serum and peritoneal fluid by using both standard and L‐phenylalanine‐based buffers, respectively. Neither ALPt nor ALPiactivity were useful in classifying type or severity of intestinal damage. ALPt and ALPiactivities in peritoneal fluid were lowest in horses suffering from simple medical colic (39 international units [U]/L [19–60 U/L]; versus 31 U/L [16–44 U/L], median [interquartile range],P <.001) and nonstrangulated surgical lesions (45 U/L [30–62 U/L] versus 36 U/L [23–54 U/L],P <.001), and highest in surgical cases with suspected ulceration (109 U/L [60‐1,113 U/L] versus 83 U/L [52–970 U/L],P <.001), strangulation (114 U/L [69–240 U/L] versus 94 U/L [56–191 U/L],P <.001), peritonitis (313 U/L [110‐2,227 U/L] versus 283 U/L [91‐1,800 U/L],P <.001) or intestinal rupture (687 U/ L [205–852 U/L] versus 564 U/L [166–732 U/L],P <.001). Higher ALPt and ALPiactivities in peritoneal fluid were associated with greater intestinal damage, increased probability of surgery, and a worse prognosis. The use of L‐phenylalanine buffer in both serum and peritoneal fluid did not improve the sensitivity of the test. Based on these results, total ALP activity in peritoneal fluid may help in identifying ischemic or inflammatory bowel lesions in horses with acute colic.
Retrospective Comparison of Azithromycin, Clarithromycin, and Erythromycin for the Treatment of Foals withRhodococcus equiPneumonia
Authors: Giguére Steeve , Jacks Stephanie , Roberts Gregory D. , Hernandez Jorge , Long Maureen T. , Ellis Christina
Published: March 2010

The objective of this retrospective study was to compare the efficacy of azithromycin‐rifampin, clarithromycin‐rifampin, and erythromycin‐rifampin for the treatment of pneumonia caused byRhodococcus equiin foals. Eighty‐one foals with naturally acquired pneumonia caused byR equiwere included in the study. Information on age, sex, breed, physical examination findings, laboratory testing, and thoracic radiography was abstracted from each medical record. Foals were divided in 3 groups based on the antimicrobial agent selected for therapy. Short‐term (discharge from the hospital) and long‐term (apparently healthy as a yearling) success rates, days of hospitalization, days with fever, days with tachypnea, and percentage of radiographic improvement were compared among groups. Foals treated with clarithromycin‐rifampin had significantly(P= .02) higher odds of overall short‐term (odds ratio [OR] = 12.2) and long‐term (OR = 20.6) treatment success and significantly fewer days with fever than foals treated with erythromycin‐rifampin. Foals treated with clarithromycin‐rifampin had a significantly(P= .03) higher percentage of radiographic improvement and a tendency(P= .06) toward higher odds of overall short‐term (OR = 8.1) and long‐term (OR = 11.8) treatment success compared to foals treated with azithromycin‐rifampin. Among foals with severe radiographic lesions, the success rates of foals treated with clarithromycin‐rifampin both short‐term (88%) and long‐term (83%) were significantly(P =.02) higher than that of foals treated with azithromycin‐rifampin (0%). For each treatment group, the only reported adverse effect was diarrhea that was mild and self‐limiting in most cases. The combination clarithromycin‐rifampin is superior to azithromycin‐rifampin or erythromycin‐rifampin for the treatment of pneumonia caused byR equiin foals in a referral population.
Doppler Ultrasonographic Evaluation of Gastrointestinal Hemodynamics in Food Hypersensitivities: A Canine Model
Authors: Kircher Patrick R. , Spaulding Kathy A. , Vaden Shelly , Lang Johann , Doherr Marcus , Gaschen Lorrie
Published: March 2010

Chronic enteropathy due to food hypersensitivity is a common complaint in dogs and humans, and definitive diagnosis and identification of offending allergens remains challenging. Doppler waveform analysis of the celiac artery (CA) and the cranial mesenteric artery (CMA) of 8 dogs with proven food hypersensitivity was performed in the fasting state and at 20, 40, 60, and 90 minutes after feeding their regular daily diet, and at 2 and 4 days after feeding 4 different allergens. Resistive index (RI), pulsatility index (PI), and the percentage differences between these measurements were calculated and compared statistically. The maximal decrease in RI and PI after feeding the regular diet was reached at 40 minutes after ingestion in both vessels (CA: RI = ‐6%, PI = ‐23%; CMA: RI = ‐9%, PI = ‐30%). After this trough, the resistance in both vessels rose nearly to baseline after 90 minutes (CA: RI = ‐1%, PI = ‐13%; CMA: RI = ‐3%, PI = ‐14%). When fed an allergen‐containing meal the percentage changes at the trough were significantly greater (CA: RI = ‐10%, PI = ‐32%; CMA: RI = ‐14%, PI = ‐40 %; p < 0.05) compared to those seen after feeding the maintenance diet. Also, RI and PI values were significantly (P< .05) lower at 90 minutes on days 2 and 4 of the challenge period. During the challenge period, dogs did not show overt signs of gastrointestinal disease. Significant postprandial hemodynamic alterations in response to food allergens in dogs with food hypersensitivities can be shown noninvasively with Doppler ultrasound.
Plasma Renin Activity and Plasma Concentrations of Aldosterone, Cortisol, Adrenocorticotropic Hormone, and α‐Melanocyte‐ Stimulating Hormone in Healthy Cats
Authors: Javadi Shahram , Slingerland Lars I. , van de Beek Margreet G. , Boer Peter , Boer Walther H. , Mol Jan A. , Rijnberk Ad , Kooistra Hans S.
Published: March 2010

A pathogenetic role of the renin‐angiotensin‐aldosterone system has been implicated in cats in both systemic arterial hypertension and hypokalemic myopathy. Yet, measurement of plasma aldosterone concentrations (PACs) and plasma renin activity (PRA) has not unequivocally pointed to hyperaldosteronism as a cause of these conditions. To obtain appropriate reference ranges, this study included a large number (130) of healthy house cats of different breeds without a history of recent illness and plasma concentrations of urea and creatinine below the upper limit of the respective reference ranges. In addition, the pituitary‐adrenocortical axis was studied by measuring plasma concentrations of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), α‐melanocyte‐stimulating hormone (α‐MSH), and cortisol. Reference ranges for PACs (110–540 pmol/L; 40–195 pg/mL), PRA (60–630 fmol/L/s; 0.3‐3 ng/mL/h), and the aldosterone to renin ratio (ARR) (0.3‐3.8) were very similar to those established in the same laboratory for humans in a supine position. No breed differences were found. The ARRs in neutered cats were significantly higher than in intact cats, primarily because of low PRA in neutered cats. The ARRs of cats a 5 years of age were significantly higher than those of cats < 5 years of age. The plasma concentrations of ACTH, α‐MSH, and cortisol did not correlate significantly with PAC Thus, although blood sampling was performed in cats in nonstandardized positions and was associated with a wide variation of stress responses, the references ranges of PAC, PRA, and ARR were similar to the relatively narrow limits established for humans under standardized conditions. The effects of neutering and aging on PRA and ARR warrant further investigation.
Complications Associated with 355 Flexible Colonoscopic Procedures in Dogs
Authors: Leib Michael S. , Baechtel Matthew S. , Monroe William E.
Published: March 2010

Flexible colonoscopy is commonly performed in dogs with signs of large‐bowel diseases. Although considered to be a safe procedure, no reports of complications associated with colonoscopy have appeared in the veterinary literature. The purpose of this study was to describe the frequency and types of adverse events that developed during flexible colonoscopy in dogs. Medical records were reviewed from 355 scheduled colonoscopic procedures. Major complications were defined as adverse events in which the dog's life was potentially jeopardized and the complication required intensive treatment or monitoring. Major complications consisting of fatal aspiration of GoLYTELY, colonic perforation, and excessive hemorrhage after biopsy of an adenocarcinoma with rigid forceps occurred in 3 (0.85%) dogs. Minor complications associated with anesthesia or colonoscopy occurred during 3.4% of procedures. Complications were classified as minor if the adverse event required minimal treatment or monitoring, and the complication was not considered a threat to the dog's life. Vomiting of GoLYTELY occurred with the administration of 4.6% of doses in 6.5% of dogs. When administering GoLYTELY, clinicians should be prepared to rapidly remove the orogastric tube and mouth speculum if vomiting occurs to reduce the potential for aspiration. In this group of dogs undergoing flexible colonoscopy, major complications occurred infrequently and minor complications developed uncommonly. Overall, minor or major complications developed during 30 (8.5%) of 355 procedures. Mortality was rare (0.28%). Flexible colonoscopy appears to be a safe procedure in dogs with signs of large‐bowel diseases.
Pulmonic Stenosis in Dogs: Balloon Dilation Improves Clinical Outcome
Authors: Johnson M. Stafford , Martin M. , Edwards D. , French A. , Henley W.
Published: March 2010

Medical records of 81 dogs with severe pulmonic stenosis from 2 referral centers were examined retrospectively. Forty dogs underwent balloon valvuloplasty (BV), which was performed by 1 operator, whereas 41 did not. The mean age at latest follow‐up was 41.5 months. A statistical comparison of the clinical outcome and survival was performed. Dogs revealing clinical signs at presentation showed a 16‐fold increase in risk of death compared with asymptomatic dogs (P< .001). Statistical analyses demonstrated that an increase of 1 mm Hg in transstenotic pressure gradient (PG) at presentation was associated with a 3% increase in hazard rate (P< .001). Thirty‐seven dogs survived BV with a median reduction in PG of 46%. The median preoperative PG was 120 mm Hg, and median PG 24 hours postoperatively was 55 mm Hg with a median of 55 mm Hg 6 months post‐BV. Twenty (49%) of the non‐BV (NBV) dogs remained asymptomatic at last follow‐up. Fourteen (34%) of the NBV dogs died or were euthanized because of heart disease related to pulmonic stenosis. Twelve of these dogs died suddenly, whereas only 1 of the BV dogs died suddenly. After adjusting for PG, clinical signs at presentation, and age, BV or dilation was associated with a 53% reduction in hazard rate (P =.005). This study indicates that BV, when performed by an experienced operator, appears to be successful both in alleviating clinical signs and in prolonging survival in dogs with severe pulmonic stenosis. Key words: Bulldog; Sudden death; Tricuspid valve regurgitation; Valvuloplasty.
Canine Inflammatory Myopathies: A Clinicopathologic Review of 200 Cases
Authors: Evans Jason , Levesque Donald , Shelton G. Diane
Published: March 2010

A retrospective study was performed on 200 randomly selected cases of inflammatory myopathy in dogs from diagnostic muscle biopsies received at the Comparative Neuromuscular Laboratory, University of California, San Diego. The most common clinical signs in dogs diagnosed with an inflammatory myopathy were generalized weakness, stilted gait, dysphagia, masticatory or generalized muscle atrophy, inability to open the jaw, megaesophagus, and dysphonia. Myalgia was rarely described. Age of onset ranged from 0.25 to 14 years. Genders were equally represented. Breed distribution approximated the 2002 American Kennel Club registration statistics (r=.85) with the notable exception of Boxers and Newfoundlands. From the results of muscle biopsies, clinical signs, and presence or absence of antibodies against type 2M fibers, dogs were classified as a generalized inflammatory myopathy (gIM)–ncluding immune‐mediated polymyositis; infectious and preneoplastic myositis; and, rarely, dermatomyositislike or overlap syndromes or unclassified myositis–ra focal inflammatory myopathy (fIM)–including masticatory muscle and ex‐traocular myositis. Average creatine kinase (CK) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) concentrations in gIMs were significantly higher than those with fIMs (P <.05). Neoplasia developed in 12 of 200 dogs within 12 months of diagnosis of polymyositis, with lymphoma diagnosed in 6 of 32 Boxers. Inflammatory myopathy was associated with antibody titers against infectious diseases in 38 dogs.Neospora caninumandHepatozoon americanumcysts were found in tissues of 2 dogs not serologically tested. Antibodies against an unidentified sarcolemmal antigen were found in 9 of 19 Newfoundlands with polymyositis. The spectrum of canine inflammatory myopathies can be broad, with infectious etiologies relatively common, and can include preneoplastic and uncharacterized syndromes.
Experimental Clostridium difficile Enterocolitis in Foals
Authors: Arroyo Luis G. , Weese J. Scott , Staempfli Henry R.
Published: March 2010

Despite empirical clinical association of infection withClostridium difficilewith colitis in horses, a causal link has not been confirmed. The objective of this study was to develop a model ofC difficile–associated diarrhea in foals with normal transfer of passive immunity. Nine 1‐day‐old pony foals were inoculated intragastrically with spores or vegetative cells ofC difficile.Five foals were challenged with spores, with 2 receiving 105colony‐forming units (CFUs) and concurrently 3 receiving 107CFUs once daily for 3 days. Clindamycin was administered orally to disrupt gastrointestinal flora. A further 4 foals were challenged by orogastric administration of 1010CFUs of vegetative cells once daily for 3 days or until diarrhea developed. This group did not receive clindamycin. Spore and vegetative cell preparations were negative for toxins ofC difficileand common enteropathogens. Clinical signs varied from mild abdominal discomfort and pasty feces to colic and watery diarrhea in 8 of 9 foals. Four of 5 foals challenged with spores developed mild diarrhea, whereas all foals challenged with vegetative cells developed moderate to severe diarrhea.C difficilewas isolated from feces of all foals between 24 and 72 hours after inoculation and toxins A or B or both were detected in the feces of all foals by an enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. We concluded that spores and vegetative cells ofC difficileare capable of colonizing the gastrointestinal tract, producing toxins, and inducing clinical signs similar to those encountered in naturally occurring cases. This study fulfilled Koch's postulates forC difficile–associated diarrhea in foals and provides a model for consistent reproduction of the disease for future studies.
Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics of Furosemide after Oral Administration to Horses
Authors: Johansson Anna M. , Gardner Sarah Y. , Levine Jay F. , Papich Mark G. , LaFevers D. Heath , Goldman Rebecca B. , Sheets M. Katie , Atkins Clarke E.
Published: March 2010

Furosemide is the most common diuretic drug used in horses. Furosemide is routinely administered as IV or IM bolus doses 3–4 times a day. Administration PO is often suggested as an alternative, even though documentation of absorption and efficacy in horses is lacking. This study was carried out in a randomized, crossover design and compared 8‐hour urine volume among control horses that received placebo, horses that received furosemide at 1 mg/kg PO, and horses that received furosemide at 1 mg/kg IV. Blood samples for analysis of plasma furosemide concentrations, PCV, and total solids were obtained at specific time points from treated horses. Furosemide concentrations were determined by reversed‐phase high‐performance liquid chromatography with fluorescent detection. Systemic availability of furosemide PO was poor, erratic, and variable among horses. Median systemic bioavailability was 5.4% (25th percentile, 75th percentile: 3.5, 9.6). Horses that received furosemide IV produced 7.4 L (7.1, 7.7) of urine over the 8‐hour period. The maximum plasma concentration of 0.03 |xg/mL after administration PO was not sufficient to increase urine volume compared with control horses (1.2 L [1.0, 1.4] PO versus 1.2 L [1.0, 1.4] control). There was a mild decrease in urine specific gravity within 1–2 hours after administration of furosemide PO, and urine specific gravity was significantly lower in horses treated with furosemide PO compared with control horses at the 2‐hour time point. Systemic availability of furosemide PO was poor and variable. Furosemide at 1 mg/kg PO did not induce diuresis in horses. Key words: Equine; Frusemide; Loop diuretic; Oral bioavailability.
Echocardiography in the Chinchilla
Authors: Linde Annika , Summerfield Nuala J. , Johnston Matthew , Melgarejo Tonatiuh , Keffer Angela , Ivey Evelyn
Published: March 2010

Heart disease has been described in the chinchilla and, with increasing popularity as a pet, the demand for diagnostic evaluation and treatment has increased. The goal of this study was to determine reference values for echocardiographic measurements in chinchillas and the effect of anesthesia on these measurements. Seventeen clinically healthy adult chinchillas were studied. All animals were anesthetized with isoflurane by mask. Standard echocardiographic views were used. A difference was seen in the echocardiographic measurements for left ventricular systolic dimension, fractional shortening, aortic (Ao) diameter, left atrial (LA) diameter, ratio of LA diameter to Ao diameter, and peak flow velocities and ejection times for Ao and pulmonary artery flows between awake and anesthetized chinchillas.