bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Trimethoprim‐Sulfadiazine on Thyroid Function of Horses
Authors: Rothschild Chantal M. , Hines Melissa T. , Breuhaus Babetta , Gay John , Sellon Debra C.
Published: March 2010

Trimethoprim‐sulfadiazine was administered to horses in a randomized, placebo controlled study to determine the effects of potentiated sulfonamides on thyroid function in normal horses. The treatment group included eight horses that received trimethoprim‐sulfadiazine mixed with molasses orally at 30 mg/kg once daily for eight weeks. The control group included 8 horses that received an oral placebo (flour mixed with molasses) once daily for the same period. Thyroid function was evaluated prior to initiation of treatment and after 8 weeks of treatment. Serum concentrations of total and free triiodothyronine (T3), total and free thyroxine (T4), and thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) were determined at rest and after a thyrotropin‐releasing hormone (TRH) stimulation test. There was no detectable difference between treatment and control groups.
Isolation of Methicillin‐Resistant Staphylococcus aureus from the Environment in a Veterinary Teaching Hospital
Authors: Weese J. Scott , DaCosta Tara , Button Lea , Goth Kathryn , Ethier Michael , Boehnke Kendra
Published: March 2010

After recognition of a cluster of methicillin‐resistantStaphylococcus aureus(MRSA) infection in horses and humans at the Ontario Veterinary College Veterinary Teaching Hospital, environmental contamination with MRSA was evaluated. A total of 260 environmental surfaces were sampled during periods when MRSA‐infected horses were hospitalized, and MRSA was isolated from 25/260 sites (9.6%). The most commonly contaminated sites were stalls housing MRSA‐positive horses, but other stalls, medical equipment, personal items, and equine restraint devices also were contaminated. The role of the environment in the transmission of MRSA infection to horses or humans is unclear. However, relatively widespread contamination of the hospital environment, as apparently occurs when infected horses are hospitalized, suggests that the environment may be an important source of MRSA infection. This possibility must be taken into consideration when designing infection control and disinfection protocols.
Efficacy of Combined Atovaquone and Azithromycin for Therapy of Chronic Babesia gibsoni (Asian Genotype) Infections in Dogs
Authors: Birkenheuer Adam J. , Levy Michael G. , Breitschwerdt Edward B.
Published: March 2010

Babesiosis caused byBabesia gibsoni(Asian genotype) is an emerging disease in dogs in the United States. To date, no drugs have been shown to eliminateB gibsoni(Asian genotype) infections from dogs. Twenty‐two dogs that remained persistently infected withB gibsoni(Asian genotype) after either imidocarb diproprionate and or diminazine aceturate therapy were identified and randomly and evenly distributed into 2 groups. One group was treated with atovaquone and azithromycin combination therapy, and the other group received a placebo. Eight of 10 dogs in the treatment group had no detectableB gibsoni(Asian genotype) DNA, as determined by a sensitive and specific polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay, in any of their posttreatment samples. In contrast,B gibsoni(Asian genotype) DNA was detectable by PCR in the posttreatment samples from 11 of 11 of the placebo‐treated dogs. One dog in the treatment group was excluded from the treatment outcome analysis. This dog had 2 consecutive negative PCR assay results and was euthanized because of ongoing degenerative joint disease prior to completion of the study. No adverse effects of treatment were reported in any dog during the study period. A combination of atovaquone and azithromycin is the 1st described treatment that will either eliminateB gibsoni(Asian genotype) infections or suppress the parasitemia below the limit of detection in the majority of treated dogs.
Pulmonary Thromboembolism in Cats
Authors: Schermerhorn Thomas , Pembleton‐Corbett Julie R. , Kornreich Bruce
Published: March 2010

Pulmonary thromboembolism (PTE) is rarely diagnosed in cats, and the clinical features of the disease are not well known. PTE was diagnosed at postmortem examination in 17 cats, a prevalence of 0.06% over a 24‐year period. The age of affected cats ranged from 10 months to 18 years, although young (<4 years) and old (10 years) cats were more commonly affected than were middleaged cats. Males and females were equally affected. The majority of cats with PTE (n = 16) had concurrent disease, which was often severe. The most common diseases identified in association with PTE were neoplasia, anemia of unidentified cause, and pancreatitis. Cats with glomerulonephritis, encephalitis, pneumonia, heart disease, and hepatic lipidosis were also represented in this study. Most cats with PTE demonstrated dyspnea and respiratory distress before death or euthanasia, but PTE was not recognized ante mortem in any cat studied. In conclusion, PTE can affect cats of any age and is associated with a variety of systemic and inflammatory disorders. It is recommended that the same clinical criteria used to increase the suspicion of PTE in dogs should also be applied to cats.
Serum Thymidine Kinase Activity in Dogs with Malignant Lymphoma: A Potent Marker for Prognosis and Monitoring the Disease
Authors: von Euler Henrik , Einarsson Roland , Olsson Ulf , Lagerstedt Anne‐Sofie , Eriksson Staffan
Published: March 2010

Serum thymidine kinase (sTK) activity was evaluated as a tumor marker for canine malignant lymphoma (ML). The objective was to investigate if sTK, as in humans, could be used as a prognostic marker for survival time in dogs with ML and if sTK could identify early signs of progression of disease in treated dogs. Serum samples from 52 dogs with ML were tested for initial TK activity. Samples from 21 normal dogs and 25 dogs with nonhematologic neoplasms were used for comparison. Forty‐four dogs with ML were treated. Serum TK activity was measured in treated dogs before each treatment and every 4 weeks thereafter until relapse. Dogs with ML had 2–180 times higher TK activity (TK 5–900 U/L) than normal dogs (TK <7 U/L) based on the mean + 2 standard deviations. In the group of other neoplasms, only 2 dogs had a moderate increase (6.4 and 7.5 U/L) compared with the controls. Mean sTK activities in the dogs with ML that had gone into complete remission (CR) were not significantly different from activities in healthy controls(P= .68). Mean sTK at least 3 weeks before and at the time of relapse was significantly higher than activity measured at CR(P< .0001). Dogs with ML that initially had sTK >30 U/L had significantly shorter survival times(P< .0001). Furthermore, sTK activity reflected the clinical staging of ML. Measuring sTK can be used as a powerful objective tumor marker for prognosis and for predicting relapse before recurrence of clinically detectable disease in dogs with ML undergoing chemotherapy.
Pharmacokinetics of Once‐Daily Amikacin in Healthy Foals and Therapeutic Drug Monitoring in Hospitalized Equine Neonates
Authors: Bucki Erica Paige , Giguere Steeve , Macpherson Margo , Davis Rachel
Published: March 2010

The objectives of this study were to investigate the pharmacokinetics of once‐daily amikacin in healthy neonates, to determine amikacin concentrations in hospitalized foals, and to determine the minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of amikacin against gram‐negative isolates from blood cultures in septic foals. Median half‐life, clearance, and volume of distribution of amikacin in healthy 2‐ to 3‐day‐old foals after administration of an intravenous bolus of amikacin (25 mg/kg) were 5.07 hours (4.86‐5.45 hours), 1.82 mL/min/kg (1.35‐1.97 mL/min/kg), and 0.785 L/kg (0.638‐0.862 L/kg), respectively. Statistically significant (P<.05) decreases in area under the curve (14% decrease), mean residence time (19% decrease), and C24hplasma amikacin concentrations (29% decrease) occurred between days 2–3 and 10–11. Plasma amikacin concentrations in healthy foals at 0.5 hours (C05h) were significantly higher (P= .02) than those of hospitalized foals. Sepsis, prematurity, and hypoxemia did not alter amikacin concentrations. The MIC at which 90% of all gram‐negative isolates from equine neonatal blood cultures were inhibited by amikacin was 4 |xg/mL, suggesting that amikacin C05hof 40 μg/mL should be targeted to achieve a maximum serum concentration to MIC ratio of 10:1. The proportion of foals with C05h>40 μg/mL was significantly higher(P<.0001) in hospitalized foals receiving a dose of amikacin at 25 mg/kg (22/24 or 92%) than in foals receiving a dose at 21 mg/kg (9/25 or 36%), whereas no difference was found in the proportion of foals with C24hconcentrations ≥3 μg/mL between the 2 groups. An initial dose at 25 mg/kg is recommended for once‐daily amikacin in equine neonates.
Dietary (n‐3) Fatty Acids from Menhaden Fish Oil Alter Plasma Fatty Acids and Leukotriene B Synthesis in Healthy Horses
Authors: Hall Jean A. , van Saun Robert J. , Wander Rosemary C.
Published: March 2010

The study objective was to determine the effect of feeding corn oil or fish oil to horses on plasma fatty acid profiles and leukotriene B (LTB) synthesis by stimulated peripheral blood neutrophils. Two groups of horses (n = 5) were randomly assigned to diets supplemented with either 3.0% (by weight) corn oil or fish oil for a period of 14 weeks. The ratio of (n‐6) to (n‐3) fatty acids in oil supplements was 68.1:1 for corn oil and 0.12:1 for fish oil. Production of LTB4and LTB5by peripheral blood neutrophils stimulated with calcium ionophore A23187 and plasma cholesterol, triacylglycerol, and α‐tocopherol concentrations were measured. At 12 weeks, horses fed fish oil had increased plasma concentrations of eicosapentaenoic acid (27‐fold; 8.5 versus 0.3 g/100 g fatty acids;P< .0001), docosahexaenoic acid (34‐fold; 5.1 versus 0.1 g/100 g fatty acids;P< .0001), and arachidonic acid (8.3‐fold; 4.1 versus 0.5 g/100 g fatty acids;P< .0001) compared with horses fed corn oil. Neutrophils from horses fed fish oil produced 78‐fold (P= .01) more LTB5and 9.5‐fold (P= .003) more LTB4compared with predietary levels, and 17.6‐fold (P= .01) and 3.3‐fold (P= .02), respectively, more than horses fed corn oil, and the ratio of LTB5to LTB4concentrations was 4.0‐fold (P= .002) higher in horses fed fish oil. This study suggests that dietary polyunsaturated fatty acids modulate the leukotriene inflammatory response of horses. If the ratio of LTB5to LTB4concentrations is important in determining how inflammatory processes are mediated, then fish oil supplementation may have value in treatment of equine inflammatory diseases.
Improvement in Liver Pathology after 4 Months of D‐Penicillamine in 5 Doberman Pinschers with Subclinical Hepatitis
Authors: Mandigers P.J.J. , van den Ingh T.S.G.A.M. , Bode P. , Rothuizen J.
Published: March 2010

Five female Doberman Pinschers with increased hepatic copper concentrations and persistent (3–4 years) subclinical hepatitis were treated with D‐penicillamine for 4 months. Before and after treatment, the dogs underwent clinical, hematologic (red blood cell, white blood cell, and differential and thrombocyte counts), and clinical chemistry (creatinine, alkaline phosphatase, alanine aminotransferase, and total bile acid concentrations) examinations, and liver biopsies were examined histologically and their copper content measured quantitatively. No adverse effects were observed during treatment, and CBC and serum chemistry test results did not change. The mean liver copper concentration was 1,036 mg/kg dry matter before treatment and decreased to 407 mg/kg after treatment (P= .03). The copper concentrations had decreased (by between 134 and 1,135 mg/kg dry matter) in all of the dogs. The histopathologic appearance had improved or returned to normal in all 5 dogs. We conclude that D‐penicillamine effectively reduced copper retention in these dogs and improved the histopathologic appearance of the lesions. However, because D‐penicillamine has both copper‐chelating and anti‐inflammatory properties, it is not possible to draw conclusions on the etiology of this disease.
Urinary Tract Manifestations of Protothecosis in Dogs
Authors: Pressler Barrak M. , Gookin Jody L. , Sykes Jane E. , Wolf Alice M. , Vaden Shelly L.
Published: March 2010

Records of 13 dogs with systemic infection withProtothecasp. from 3 veterinary teaching hospitals were reviewed. Acute renal failure secondary to disseminated infection withPrototheca zopfiiwas diagnosed in 2 dogs. In 1 dog, acute renal failure developed during administration of immunosuppressive drugs for treatment of anterior uveitis. During diagnostic evaluation of this dogProtothecasp. organisms were noted in urine sediment and renal biopsy specimens. In the 2nd dog, acute renal failure was diagnosed after treatment for bacterial cystitis. After diagnosis of protothecosis, organisms were successfully isolated by aerobic urine culture. Both dogs with acute renal failure did not respond to conventional medical therapy. In total,Protothecasp. was noted in urine sediment in 4 of 8 dogs and successfully cultured from urine in 5 of 7 dogs. Four of 5 dogs had organisms noted in the kidneys on histopathologic examination. In all dogs, the species identified wasP zopfii.Sensitivity testing of 3 isolates revealed wide differences in in vitro drug resistance. Examination and culture of urine is recommended as a practical method diagnosis of systemic infection withProtothecasp.
Thyroid Sonography as an Effective Tool to Discriminate between Euthyroid Sick and Hypothyroid Dogs
Authors: Reese Sven , Breyer Ulrike , Deeg Cornelia , Kraft Wilfried , Kaspers Bernd
Published: March 2010

The diagnosis of canine hypothyroidism and its differentiation from euthyroid sick syndrome still is a major diagnostic challenge. In this study, ultrasonography was shown to be an effective tool for the investigation of thyroid gland diseases. Healthy control dogs (n = 87), dogs with euthyroid sick syndrome (n = 26), thyroglobulin autoantibody‐positive (TgAA‐positive, n = 30) hypothyroid dogs, and TgAA‐negative (n = 23) hypothyroid dogs were examined by thyroid ultrasonography. Maximal cross sectional area (MCSA), thyroid volume, and echogenicity were measured. Statistical analysis identified highly significant (P< .001) differences between euthyroid and hypothyroid dogs both in thyroid volume and in MCSA, whereas no significant differences in thyroid size were detected between healthy euthyroid dogs and dogs with euthyroid sick syndrome. In euthyroid and euthyroid sick dogs, parenchymal echotexture was homogeneous and hyperechoic, whereas relative thyroid echogenicity of both TgAA‐positive and TgAA‐negative hypothyroid dogs was significantly lower (P< .001). When using arbitrarily chosen cutoff values for relative thyroid volume, MCSA, and echogenicity, thyroid volume especially was found to have highly specific predictive value for canine hypothyroidism. In summary, the data reveal that thyroid sonography is an effective ancillary diagnostic tool to differentiate between canine hypothyroidism and euthyroid sick syndrome.
Effect of Body Position on Feline Electrocardiographic Recordings
Authors: Harvey A.M. , Faena M. , Darke P.G.G. , Ferasin L.
Published: March 2010

The aim of this study was to determine whether changes in body position alter feline electrocardiographic parameters. Forty‐seven cats referred to the Feline Unit of the University of Bristol had electrocardiograms (ECGs) recorded. Only cats presenting in sinus rhythm were included in the study (n = 41). ECGs were recorded either as part of the investigation for potential cardiac disease (n = 38) or as a preanesthetic screen (n = 3). Standard 6‐lead ECGs (leads I, II, III, aVR, aVL, and aVF) were recorded in 3 different recumbent positions in the 41 cats. Recordings were 1st made in right lateral (RL) recumbency, followed by sternal (ST) and then left lateral (LL) recumbency. Measurements were taken of the amplitude and duration of P waves and QRS complexes and duration of PQ and QT intervals from lead II was taken in the 3 different positions. Mean electrical axis (MEA) also was calculated. Repeated measures analysis of variance was performed and identified a significant difference in R wave amplitudes (P= .009) and MEA (P= .037) among the 3 different body positions. Two‐tailed pairedt‐tests demonstrated that the R wave amplitude differed significantly both in ST (P= .025) and LL recumbency (P= .009). The mean R wave amplitude was reduced in both ST and LL recumbency when compared with RL recumbency. The MEA only was significantly different in LL recumbency (P= .037). ST and LL recumbencies should not be used for recording ECGs in cats if amplitudes and MEA are to be compared with standard references.
The Effect of Ramipril on Left Ventricular Mass, Myocardial Fibrosis, Diastolic Function, and Plasma Neurohormones in Maine Coon Cats with Familial Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy without Heart Failure
Authors: MacDonald Kristin A. , Kittleson Mark D. , Larson Richard F. , Kass Philip , Klose Tyler , Wisner Erik R.
Published: March 2010

Background:Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM) is the most common heart disease of cats, resulting in left ventricular (LV) hypertrophy, myocardial fibrosis, and diastolic dysfunction.

Hypothesis:Ramipril will reduce LV mass, improve diastolic function, and reduce myocardial fibrosis in cats with HCM without congestive heart failure (CHF).

Animals:This prospective, blinded, placebo‐controlled study included 26 Maine Coon and Maine Coon cross‐bred cats with familial HCM but without CHF.

Methods:Cats were matched for LV mass index (LVMI) and were randomized to receive ramipril (0.5 mg/kg) or placebo q24h for 1 year, with investigators blinded. Plasma brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) concentration, plasma aldosterone concentration, Doppler tissue imaging (DTI), and systolic blood pressure were measured at baseline and every 3 months for 1 year. Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (cMRI) was performed to quantify LV mass and myocardial fibrosis by delayed enhancement (DE) cMRI at baseline and 6 and 12 months. Plasma angiotensin‐converting enzyme (ACE) activity was measured on 16 cats 1 hour after PO administration.

Results:Plasma ACE activity was adequately suppressed (97%) in cats treated with ramipril. LV mass, LVMI, DTI, DE, blood pressure, plasma BNP, and plasma aldosterone were not different in cats treated with ramipril compared with placebo (P= .85,P= .94,P= .91,P= .89,P= .28,P= .18, andP= .25, respectively).

Conclusion: Treatment of Maine Coon cats with HCM without CHF with ramipril did not change LV mass, improve diastolic function, alter DE, or alter plasma BNP or aldosterone concentrations in a relevant manner.
The Effect of Glucocorticoids on Canine Lymphocyte Marker Expression and Apoptosis
Authors: Ammersbach M.A.G. , Kruth S.A. , Sears W. , Bienzle D.
Published: March 2010

Background:Glucocorticoids are commonly administered to dogs for the treatment of inflammatory disorders, autoimmunity and cancers such as lymphoma. Despite evidence of clinical efficacy, understanding of the effects of glucocorticoids on cells of the canine immune system is limited.

Hypothesis:Glucocorticoids affect the expression of phenotypic markers on canine lymphocytes and induce apoptosis.

Animals:Fifteen healthy mixed breed dogs.

Methods:Prospective randomized study. Prednisone was administered orally for 3 days, and cells aspirated from the popliteal lymph node before prednisone administration, and on days 1, 3, 10, 17, 24, and 38, were labeled with antibodies against canine CD3, CD4, CD8α, CD18, CD21, CD45, CD45RA, and CD90 molecules, and analyzed by flow cytometry. Additional samples were cultured in media with prednisolone for 24 hours and analyzed by cytometry for marker expression, and by gel electrophoresis for DNA fragmentation.

Results:Treatment of dogs with glucocorticoids resulted in reduced (p≤ .05) proportions of CD3 (days 1, 3, 17, and 24), CD4 (days 3 and 10), CD21 (day 1, 3, and 38), CD45RA (day 17) and CD90 (days 1, 10, and 17) expressing lymphocytes, and reduced intensity of CD18 (day 17) and CD45 (day 17 and 24) molecules on nodal lymphocytes. Culture of lymphocytes with prednisolone for 24 hours caused a significant reduction in the expression of all markers (p≤ .05) and DNA fragmentation.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance: Glucocorticoids significantly alter the expression of phenotypic markers on canine lymphocytes, and in vitro induce apoptosis. These findings identify potential mechanisms for clinical immunosuppression from glucocorticoid treatment.
Dexamethasone, Melphalan, Actinomycin D, Cytosine Arabinoside (DMAC) Protocol for Dogs with Relapsed Lymphoma
Authors: Alvarez Francisco J. , Kisseberth William C. , Gallant Stacey L. , Couto C. Guillermo
Published: March 2010

Background:In general, treatment of relapsed lymphoma is associated with a lower probability of response and shorter duration of remission. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of the combination chemotherapy protocol DMAC (dexamethasone, melphalan, actinomycin D, and cytosine arabinoside) for reinduction of remission in dogs with relapsed lymphoma.

Hypothesis:That DMAC would be an effective reinduction protocol for dogs with relapsed lymphoma.

Animals:Fifty‐four dogs.

Results: Seventy‐two percent of the dogs achieved remission (44% complete remission [CR] and 28% partial remission [PR]), 11% had stable disease (SD), and 17% had progressive disease (PD). The median remission duration was 61 days (range, 2–467+ days). The median remission durations for dogs with CR, PR, and SD were 112, 44, and 27 days, respectively. Factors that affected the response rate were previous treatment with doxorubicin and an inability to achieve remission with the previous protocol. Thrombocytopenia occurred in 56% of the dogs (grade 1 in 3 dogs, grade 2 in 6 dogs, grade 3 in 7 dogs, and grade 4 in 7 dogs) and neutropenia in 17% of the dogs (grade 2 in 1 dog, grade 3 in 2 dogs, and grade 4 in 4 dogs). Gastrointestinal toxicosis occurred in 22% of the dogs (grades 1 in 5 dogs, grade 2 in 3 dogs, and grade 3 in 1 dog).

Conclusions and Clinical Importance: The DMAC protocol is an effective rescue protocol for dogs with relapsed multicentric lymphoma. Although thrombocytopenia is a common manifestation of toxicity, in general, the protocol is well tolerated.
Effects of Deracoxib or Buffered Aspirin on the Gastric Mucosa of Healthy Dogs
Authors: Sennello Kathleen A. , Leib Michael S.
Published: March 2010

Background:Use of cyclo‐oxygenase‐2 specific nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs such as deracoxib has been advocated because of their anti‐inflammatory actions and apparently low incidence of gastrointestinal adverse effects.

Hypothesis:Deracoxib will cause less endoscopically detectable gastric injury in dogs than aspirin, a nonselective nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drug.

Animals:Twenty‐four random source healthy dogs.

Methods:A randomized, placebo‐controlled trial compared gastroscopic findings of dogs receiving placebo (q8h), aspirin (25 mg/kg PO q8h), or deracoxib (1.5 mg/kg QD, placebo q12h) for 28 days. Gastroscopy on days‐7, 6, 14, and 28 evaluated 4 regions of the stomach separately and visible lesions were scored. Dogs were observed every 8 hours for vomiting and diarrhea. Median total scores for each group were compared each day of endoscopic examination and total dog‐days of vomiting and diarrhea were compared. Significance was determined atP< .05.

Results:There were significant differences in total scores of the aspirin group and both the placebo and deracoxib groups on days 6, 14, and 28. No significant differences in total scores were found between placebo and deracoxib on days 6, 14, and 28. Significant differences in dog‐days of vomiting were found between the aspirin and deracoxib groups whereas no significant differences were found between the deracoxib and placebo groups. There was no detectable effect of treatment on dog‐days of diarrhea.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance: Administration of deracoxib to healthy dogs resulted in significantly lower gastric lesion scores, and fewer days of vomiting compared to aspirin, indicating that deracoxib is better tolerated than aspirin in some dogs.
Esophageal Dysmotility in Young Dogs
Authors: Bexfield N.H. , Watson PJ. , Herrtage M.E.
Published: March 2010

Background:Abnormal esophageal motility can exist without megaesophagus, although its prevalence in dogs is unknown and its cause has not been elucidated.

Hypothesis:Esophageal dysmotility without overt megaesophagus exists in both symptomatic and asymptomatic young dogs, and motility can improve with age.

Animals:Dogs examined at the Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cambridge for regurgitation, but without evidence of megaesophagus on radiographs, and a further group of asymptomatic dogs.

Methods:Dogs underwent an initial and a repeat videofluoroscopic swallowing study. Images were reviewed and 5 criteria of esophageal motility evaluated.

Results:Eight affected dogs were identified (median age 9 months), and terrier dogs predominated (6 terriers of 3 breeds). Esophageal motility was reduced either globally (n = 3) or segmentally (n = 5). Repeat examination at a median of 3 months revealed that regurgitation had reduced or resolved in the majority of terrier dogs, and 4 of 6 cases demonstrated an improvement in esophageal motility. Videofluoroscopic evaluation of young (median age 11 months) asymptomatic dogs of various breeds (n = 22) revealed evidence of esophageal dysmotility in 4 of 5 control terrier dogs. Repeat evaluation demonstrated an improvement in esophageal motility in 3 dogs.

Conclusion and Clinical Importance: Esophageal dysmotility without overt megaesophagus occurs in young terrier dogs, and affected animals can be symptomatic or asymptomatic. Further, an improvement in esophageal motility occurs with time in some dogs, and might represent a syndrome of delayed esophageal maturation.
Cardiovascular Involvement in 8 Dogs with Blastomyces dermatitidis Infection
Authors: Schmiedt Chad , Kellum Heidi , Legendre AIfred M. , Gompf Rebecca E. , Bright Janice M. , Houle Christopher D. , Schutten Melissa , Stepien Rebecca
Published: March 2010

Background:Blastomycosis is a common systemic fungal infection in dogs.

Hypothesis:Dogs with cardiovascular involvement may have abnormalities in electrical conduction and valvular function, and may have a worse prognosis.

Animals:Eight client‐owned animals.

Methods:Dogs with cardiovascular lesions caused by blastomycosis were identified from retrospective evaluation of medical records.

Results:Five dogs had de novo infections and 3 had recurrences of previously treated infections. Harsh labored breathing, lethargy, and anorexia were the most common historic complaints. Three dogs had syncope. Physical examination and clinicopathologic data were typical of blastomycosis and included dyspnea, increased lung sounds, and lethargy. In addition, 3 dogs had heart murmurs and 1 had a third‐degree atrioventricular block. Four dogs had myocarditis and 2 had pericarditis or epicarditis. Two dogs had cardiac signs attributed to extracardiac compression by fungal granulomas and clinical signs were relieved by treatment. Half of the remaining 6 dogs were euthanized; 2 of these were not treated. Of the remaining 3 dogs, 1 dog died acutely while sleeping; the second died intraoperatively during an attempt to place an epicardial pacemaker; and the third had Blastomyces‐induced endocarditis and died of heart failure.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance: Blastomycosis should be considered in the differential diagnosis of dogs from endemic areas with inflammatory myocarditis, heart block, heart base or intracardiac mass lesions, syncope, or endocarditis.
Hypothyroid‐Associated Central Vestibular Disease in 10 Dogs: 1999–2005
Authors: Higgins Michael A. , Rossmeisl John H. , Panciera David L.
Published: March 2010

Background:With the exception of myxedema coma, central nervous system signs are rare in hypothyroid dogs.

Hypothesis:Central vestibular dysfunction is a possible and reversible manifestation of hypothyroidism.

Animals:Medical records of dogs with vestibular dysfunction and hypothyroidism were reviewed. Of 113 records identified, 10 dogs with at least 2 concurrent clinical neurologic abnormalities localizable to the central vestibular system were included.

Methods:Retrospective, descriptive study.

Results:Median age at diagnosis was 7 years (range, 5–10 years). All dogs were referred for progressive neurologic disease. Lesions were localized to the myelencephalic region in 5 dogs and to the vestibulocerebellum in 5 dogs. Two dogs had evidence of multifocal intracranial disease. Non‐neurologic physical abnormalities suggestive of hypothyroidism were absent in 7 of 10 dogs. Hypercholesterolemia was the only consistent clinicopathologic abnormality detected, and was present in 7 of 10 dogs. All dogs had total thyroxine (TT4) and free thyroxine (fT4) concentrations below reference ranges, and 9 of 10 had increased TSH concentrations. Intracranial imaging studies were normal in 5 of 8 dogs, and identified lesions consistent with infarctions in 3 of 8 dogs. Albuminocytologic dissociation was detected in 5 of 6 CSF analyses. Brainstem auditory‐evoked responses disclosed prolonged wave V latencies in 3 of 4 dogs tested. No other causes of central vestibular dysfunction were identified during other diagnostic investigations. The median time from initiation of treatment to clinical improvement was 4 days. Vestibular signs resolved in 9 of 10 dogs within 4 weeks.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance: Although the pathogenesis in dogs without evidence of infarction is unknown, central vestibular dysfunction appears to be a rare but reversible neurologic sequelae of hypothyroidism.
Response of Canine Cutaneous Epitheliotropic Lymphoma to Lomustine (CCNU): A Retrospective Study of 46 Cases (1999–2004)
Authors: Risbon R.E. , de Lorimier L.P. , Skorupski K. , Burgess K.E. , Bergman PJ. , Carreras J. , Hahn K. , LeBlanc A. , Turek M. , Impellizeri J. , III R. Fred , Wojcieszyn J.W. , Drobatz K. , Clifford C.A.
Published: March 2010

Background:Epitheliotropic lymphoma (ELSA) is an uncommon cutaneous canine malignancy of T lymphocytes. A consensus regarding the therapeutic standard of care is lacking, warranting evaluation of chemotherapeutic agents traditionally employed against canine nodal lymphoma in the treatment of ELSA.

Hypothesis:The purpose of this retrospective, multi‐institutional study was to evaluate the efficacy of 1‐(2‐chloroethyl)‐3‐cyclohexyl‐1‐nitrosourea (CCNU) in the treatment of ELSA.

Animals:Forty‐six dogs with adequate follow‐up and treatment response information.

Methods:All cases were diagnosed histopathologically. Immunohistochemisty (CD3, CD79a) was performed on 42/46 samples.

Results:Presenting skin lesions included generalized scales (25/46), plaques or nodules (22/46), mucocutaneous lesions (14/46), and corneal involvement (1/46). Lymph node involvement and Sézary syndrome were documented in 7 and 2 dogs, respectively. The median number of CCNU treatments was 4 (range, 1–11), with a median starting dose of 60 mg/m2(range, 30–95). Of the 46 dogs, 15 achieved complete remission, 23 achieved partial remission, 5 had stable disease, and 3 had progressive disease, for an overall response rate of 83%. The median number of treatments to achieve a response was 1 (range, 1–6). The overall median duration of response was 94 days (range, 22–282). Sixteen dose reductions were required because of neutropenia (10/46), thrombocytopenia (1/46), anemia (1/46), increased liver enzyme activity (3/46), or unspecified reasons (1/46).

Conclusions and Clinical Implications: Given the high response rate and well tolerated protocol, prospective studies are warranted to investigate the utility of CCNU alone or in multi‐agent protocols for the treatment of ELSA.
Intestinal Neoplasia in Horses
Authors: Taylor S.D. , Pusterla N. , Vaughan B. , Whitcomb M.B. , Wilson W.D.
Published: March 2010

Background:Intestinal neoplasia of horses is inadequately described.

Hypothesis:Intestinal neoplasia of horses has characteristic clinicopathologic features.

Animals:Thirty‐four horses with intestinal neoplasia.

Methods:Retrospective study.

Results:Anamnesis, clinical signs, clinicopathologic and pathologic findings in 34 adult horses diagnosed histologically with intestinal neoplasia were reviewed. The horses ranged in age from 2 to 30 years (mean 16.6 years at presentation). The Arabian breed was most represented and there was no sex predisposition. The most common presenting complaints were weight loss, colic, anorexia, and fever. The most consistent clinical signs were poor body condition, tachycardia, tachypnea, fever, and diarrhea. Useful diagnostic tools included rectal examination, routine blood analyses, abdominocentesis, ultrasonographic examination, rectal biopsy, and exploratory laparotomy. Alimentary lymphoma was the most common intestinal neoplasia identified, followed by adenocarcinoma and smooth muscle tumors. The small intestine was the most common segment of intestine affected for all neoplasms. Intestinal neoplasia was diagnosed antemortem in 13 of 34 (38%) horses. The median time from onset of clinical signs to death or euthanasia was 1.9 months. The discharge rate was 15%. Although the longest survival was observed in horses with jejunal adenocarcinoma, all horses were eventually euthanized because of intestinal neoplasia.

Conclusions: Arabian horses were 4.5 times more likely to have intestinal neoplasia diagnosed than were other breeds.
Serum Lactoferrin and Immunoglobulin G Concentrations in Healthy or Ill Neonatal Foals and Healthy Adult Horses
Authors: Barton Michelle Henry , Hurley David , Norton Natalie , Heusner Gary , Costa Lais , Jones Samuel , Byars Doug , Watanabe Kiyotaka
Published: March 2010

Background:Lactoferrin is a colostral glycoprotein with antimicrobial properties.

Hypotheses: (1) Serum lactoferrin and immunoglobulin G (IgG) concentrations are correlated and increase in healthy foals after ingestion of colostrum; (2) compared to healthy foals, ill foals will have lower lactoferrin concentrations that correlate with their IgG concentration, neutrophil count, the diagnosis of sepsis, and survival; and (3) plasma concentrations of lactoferrin will be less than serum concentrations.

Animals:Healthy foals (n = 16), mature horses (n = 10), and ill foals 1–4 days old (n = 111) that were examined for suspected sepsis were used for blood collection. Colostrum was obtained from 10 healthy mares unrelated to the foals.

Methods:Blood was obtained from the healthy foals at birth and 1–3 days of age and from the ill foals at admission. Serum IgG was quantified by single radial immunodiffusion (SRID). Lactoferrin concentrations in colostrum and blood were determined by an enzyme‐linked immunosorbant assay. The sepsis score, blood culture results, neutrophil counts, and survival were obtained on ill foals.

Results:The mean colostral lactoferrin concentration was 21.7 μg/mL. Compared to values at birth, serum IgG (18 ± 2 versus 2,921 ± 245 mg/dL, SEM) and lactoferrin (249 ± 39 versus 445 ± 63 ng/mL, SEM) concentrations were significantly greater in healthy foals 1–3 days old. Serum lactoferrin concentration in 1–3‐day‐old healthy foals was not different from mature horses or ill foals. IgG and lactoferrin concentrations were significantly correlated only in healthy foals. Serum lactoferrin concentrations were significantly lower in ill neutropenic foals. The serum IgG concentration was significantly lower in ill foals as compared to healthy foals. Only serum IgG was significantly less in ill foals with a positive sepsis score and in nonsurvivors. Plasma lactoferrin concentrations were lower than serum concentrations, although values were significantly correlated.

Clinical Importance: Although both serum IgG and lactoferrin concentrations increase in healthy foals after ingestion of colostrum, only serum IgG is significantly correlated with the sepsis score and outcome.
Liver Disease in Dogs with Tracheal Collapse
Authors: Bauer Natali B. , Schneider Matthias A. , Neiger Reto , Moritz Andreas
Published: March 2010

Background: Hepatopathy in dogs with chronic respiratory diseases is poorly recognized. The aim of this study was to evaluate liver parameters alanine transferase, alkaline phosphatase, and glutamate dehydrogenase, as well as basal and stimulated bile acid concentration, in dogs with tracheal collapse.

Hypothesis: Dogs with tracheal collapse have hepatopathy.

Animals: 26 dogs with tracheal collapse.

Materials and Methods: Gall bladder contraction was stimulated by intramuscular injection of a synthetic cholecystokinin analogue (ceruletide). Twelve healthy Beagle dogs and 30 dogs of various breeds investigated previously without evidence of hepatic, gastrointestinal, or respiratory diseases served as control. Amelioration of liver variables was assessed after stent implantation.

Results: Twelve of 26 (46%) dogs had increased serum activity of 2 or more liver enzymes. Serum basal bile acid concentrations were high in 24 of 26 dogs. Twenty‐and 40‐minute stimulated bile acids were significantly higher in dogs with tracheal collapse (64.2 + 130.0/‐43.0 μmol/L and 82.6 + 164.0/‐57.1 μmol/L) compared to the control dogs (7.0 ± 3.6 μmol/L and 6.4 ± 3.5 μmol/L). All twelve dogs reevaluated after a median of 58 days (48–219 days) had a normal breathing pattern and significantly decreased 20 and 40 minutes stimulated bile acids (50.0 + 92.7/‐32.8 μmol/L, 52.8 + 97.67–34.3 μmol/L;P= .0043), whereas plasma liver enzyme activities were not significantly influenced.

Conclusion and Clinical Importance: There was a significant hepatic dysfunction in the majority of dogs with a tracheal collapse. Liver function should be routinely assessed in dogs with severe respiratory disease.
Systemic Hypertension in Dogs with Leishmaniasis: Prevalence and Clinical Consequences
Authors: Cortadellas Oscar , del Palacio María Josefa Fernández , Bayón Alejandro , Albert Angel , Talavera Jesús
Published: March 2010

A prospective study was performed (November 1998 to December 2003) to determine the prevalence of systemic hypertension (SH) in dogs with glomerular disease secondary to leishmaniasis. One hundred and five dogs with leishmaniasis were screened and staged for the presence of renal disease (RD) and SH. For the purpose of the study, RD was defined as serum creatinine concentration ≥ 1.4 mg/dL, a urine protein/creatinine ratio ≥ 0.5, or both. SH was defined as a systolic blood pressure (SBP) ≥ 180 mm Hg or an SBP between 150 and 179 mm Hg in the presence of clinical manifestations of SH. Fifty‐two (49.5%) of the dogs had some degree of RD, and 32 (61.5%) of these dogs were diagnosed with SH. Moreover, SH also was diagnosed in 3 dogs without RD. Left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH), estimated by echocardiography, was the most frequently observed systemic consequence of hypertension, being present in 32 (91.4%) of the hypertensive dogs. Echocardiographic abnormalities were not detected in any of the 33 dogs with leishmaniasis without RD, which were used as controls. Ocular consequences of SH were observed in only 2 (5.7%) of the dogs with hypertension. We conclude that SH is prevalent in dogs with RD secondary to leishmaniasis, not only in the more severe stages but also in the early course of the illness before azotemia becomes apparent. Canine leishmaniasis may be a useful natural model to study SH secondary to glomerular disease.
Toxic Neutrophils in Cats: Clinical and Clinicopathologic Features, and Disease Prevalence and Outcome—A Retrospective Case Control Study
Authors: Segev Gilad , Klement Eyal , Aroch Itamar
Published: March 2010

Toxic neutrophils exhibit a variety of nuclear and cytoplasmic abnormalities in Romanowsky‐stained blood smears, and are associated with inflammation and infection. The purpose of the retrospective study reported here was to investigate the association of toxic neutrophils with clinicopathologic characteristics, diseases, and prognosis in cats. Cats with toxic neutrophils (n = 150) were compared with negative‐control cats (n = 150). Statistical analyses included Fisher exact, independentt‐, nonparametric Mann‐Whitney, and χ2tests. Cats with toxic neutrophils had significantly (P<.05) higher prevalence of fever, icterus, vomiting, diarrhea, depression, dehydration, weakness, and cachexia, as well as leukocytosis, neutrophilia, left shift, neutropenia, anemia, hypokalemia, and hypocalcemia. The prevalence of shock, sepsis, panleukopenia, peritonitis, pneumonia, and upper respiratory tract diseases was significantly higher among these cats, as were infectious (viral and bacterial) and metabolic disorders. Control cats had a significantly higher prevalence of feline asthma, as well as allergic, idiopathic, and vascular disorders. Hospitalization duration and treatment cost were significantly (P<.001) higher in cats with toxic neutrophils. In 53 and 47% of the cats with toxic neutrophils, the leukocyte and neutrophil counts were normal, respectively, whereas in 43%, both abnormalities and left shift were absent, and toxic neutrophils were the only hematologic evidence of inflammation or infection. In conclusion, toxic neutrophils were found to be associated with certain clinicopathologic abnormalities, and when present, may aid in the diagnosis, as well as the assessment of hospitalization duration and cost. The evaluation of blood smears for toxic neutrophils provided useful clinical information.
Hypothyroid Dogs Treated with Intravenous Levothyroxine
Authors: Pullen William H. , Hess Rebecka S.
Published: March 2010

The purpose of this retrospective study was to report clinical and clinicopathologic findings, response to treatment, and outcome of hypothyroid dogs treated with levothyroxine intravenously (IV). Seven levothyroxine IV‐treated hypothyroid dogs and 799 other hypothyroid dogs examined during the same period were included. Rottweiler dogs were overrepresented in the group of levothyroxine IV‐treated hypothyroid dogs compared with other hypothyroid dogs (P<.0001). Common physical examination abnormalities were obese or overweight body condition (5 dogs), mental dullness (5 dogs), and nonpitting edema (4 dogs). Anemia (4 dogs) and hypercholesterolemia (5) were common, although 1 dog had neither. Concurrent disease (most commonly infection) was observed in 5 dogs. Glucocorticoids and nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs had been administered to 2 dogs before examination. Surgery was performed in 2 dogs before treatment with levothyroxine IV. Four of the 7 dogs received 4–5 μmg/kg of levothyroxine IV. Subjective improvement in mentation or ambulation (6 of 7 dogs) and systolic hypotension (2 of 2 dogs) occurred within 30 hours of levothyroxine IV administration. Six of the 7 dogs responded well to therapy and were discharged from the hospital. It was concluded that physical examination and clinicopathologic findings of dogs with a hypothyroid crisis are nonspecific, although Rottweiler dogs may be at increased risk. Concurrent disorder, such as infection, concurrent administration of thyroid hormone‐altering medication, and surgery, may be associated with development of a hypothyroid crisis. Resolution of abnormal mentation, ambulation, and systolic hypotension should be expected within 30 hours. Prognosis is good in most treated dogs.
Prognostic Indicators for Dogs with Dilated Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Borgarelli Michele , Santilli Roberto A. , Chiavegato David , D'Agnolo Gino , Zanatta Renato , Mannelli Alessandro , Tarducci Alberto
Published: March 2010

The purpose of this study was to investigate the prognostic value of various clinical, ECG, echocardiographic, and Doppler echocardiographic variables in dogs with dilated cardiomyopathy. The relationship to survival of 11 variables was evaluated in 63 dogs. Studied variables were age at time of diagnosis, class of heart failure (HF), dyspnea, ascites, atrial fibrillation (AF), ejection fraction (EF), E‐point septal separation, end‐diastolic volume index, end‐systolic volume index (ESV‐I), and restrictive or nonrestrictive transmitral flow (TMF) pattern. Median survival time was 671 days (lower 95% confidence limit, 350 days). Survival curves showed that severity of HF, ascites, ESV‐I greater than 140 mL/m2, EF less than 25%, and restrictive TMF pattern had a significant negative relation to survival time. Thirty‐nine dogs with both sinus rhythm and AF presented adequate TMF recordings; in these dogs, after stratification by TMF pattern, the restrictive TMF pattern was the most important negative prognostic indicator. We conclude that in dogs with dilated cardiomyopathy the restrictive TMF pattern appears to represent a useful prognostic indicator. Class of HF, ascites, ESV‐I, and EF are also useful indexes if an adequate TMF pattern is not recorded.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging Findings in Finnish Spitz Dogs with Focal Epilepsy
Authors: Viitmaa R. , Cizinauskas S. , Bergamasc L‐A. , Kuusela E. , Pascoe P. , Teppo A‐M. , Jokinen T.S. , Kivisaari L. , Snellman M.
Published: March 2010

Eleven Finnish Spitz dogs with focal seizures and 3 healthy controls were evaluated. General clinical and neurological examinations, blood examination, urinalysis, cerebrospinal fluid examination, electroencephalography (EEG), and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain were performed on all dogs. On EEG examination, focal epileptic activity was found in 7 of 11 dogs (64%), and generalized epileptic activity was observed in 4 of 11 dogs (36%). MRI (performed with 1.5 T equipment) detected changes in 1 epileptic dog. Mild contrast enhancement after gadolinium injection was identified in this dog's right parietal cortex. However, no such changes were observed in repeated magnetic resonance images. Special emphasis was given to seizure history to determine any correlations between seizure intervals and MRI findings. Our results indicate that Finnish Spitz dogs with focal seizures suffer from focal idiopathic epilepsy and have nondetectable findings on MRI or pathology. MRI showed poor sensitivity in detecting epileptogenic areas in our patients with focal seizures. Reversible MRI changes in 1 dog could have been caused by seizures.
Relationship between Retinoic Acid Receptor α Gene Expression and Growth‐Inhibitory Effect of All‐Trans Retinoic Acid on Canine Tumor Cells
Authors: Miyajima Nozomi , Watanabe Manabu , Ohashi Emi , Mochizuki Manabu , Nishimura Ryohei , Ogawa Hiroyuki , Sugano Sumio , Sasaki Nobuo
Published: March 2010

Retinoids show antitumor effects on human acute promyelocytic leukemia and other tumors via retinoid receptors. In dogs, the role of retinoid receptors in inhibiting tumor development remains unclear. To evaluate the correlation between the degree of expression of retinoic acid receptor α (RARα) mRNA and the antiproliferative effects of all‐transretinoic acid (ATRA) treatments, expression analysis of RARα mRNA and cell growth inhibition assay were performed on 17 established canine tumor cell lines, including 6 mammary gland tumor (MGT) cell lines, 3 osteosarcoma cell lines, 5 melanoma cell lines, and 3 mast cell tumor (MCT) cell lines. Among the cell lines investigated, all 3 MCT cell lines showed high expression of RARα, and the most effective cell growth inhibition was observed in ATRA‐treated MCT cell lines. However, remarkable antiproliferative effects of ATRA treatments were not observed on other tumor cell lines with moderate or low RARα mRNA expression. As a result of the relationship between RARα mRNA expression and ATRA treatment with regression analysis, statistically significant correlation was suggested. Furthermore, real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction analysis of RARα was performed on MCT tissue samples of dogs with spontaneous disease, and 5 of 9 tissues showed high expression. These results suggest that ATRA may be an effective antitumor agent for MCT in dogs, and that prior measurement of expression of RARα: mRNA may be a good indicator of the effectiveness of ATRA treatment.