bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Toxoplasma gondii antibody in domestic cats in Melbourne
Authors: SUMNER B , ACKLAND ML
Published: March 2008

Objectives To determine the prevalence ofToxoplasma gondiiin a population of domestic cats in Melbourne.

Design An ELISA assay was used to measure T gondii antibody titres in 103 cats from north‐eastern Melbourne. Cats were obtained from outer suburban areas (less than 30 km from the Melbourne GPO) and from rural areas (more than 30 km from the Melbourne GPO).

Results Thirty‐nine percent of cats were positive for T gondii IgG. Older cats tended to have higher antibody titres. There was no significant difference in the T gondii antibody titres between males and females, or between cats living in urban areas and cats from rural areas.

Conclusions A significant proportion of cats from Melbourne have been exposed to Toxoplasma. This may have implications for the health of wildlife and humans.
Methods of detection of Chlamydia psittaci in domesticated and wild birds
Authors: McELNEA CL , CROSS GM
Published: March 2008

Objective To study the occurrence of Chlamydia psittaci in domesticated and wild birds and compare the sensitivity of molecular detection with cell culture isolation.

Design Study of cell culture isolation and PCR detection of C psittaci in avian samples.

Procedure Samples were obtained from 485 birds. Domesticated birds were selected at random from pet shops, private aviaries and zoos, while wild birds were captured locally, sampled, and immediately released. Swabs were collected from choanal slit, conjunctiva and cloaca of each bird and pooled. Samples were divided into equal portions for use in PCR dot‐blot and cell culture detection. PCR and dot‐blot detection was based on the ompB gene.

Results Prevalence of infection varied markedly between flocks of captive birds. It was highest where there were frequent changes in the flock members or where there were many birds confined in small areas. C psittaci was not detected in wild birds or water birds. The sensitivity of cell culture compared to PCR dot‐blot detection was 68%. All samples positive by cell culture were also positive by PCR.

Conclusions PCR‐dot blot detection of C psittaci in birds appears to be more sensitive than cell culture isolation in this study. C psittaci infection of birds may occur in clinically normal captive birds.
Experimental reproduction of viral chorioretinitis in kangaroos
Authors: REDDACLIFF L , KIRKLAND P , PHILBEY A , DAVIS R , VOGELNEST L , HULST F , BLYDE D , DEYKIN A , SMITH J , HOOPER P , GOULD A , HYATT A
Published: March 2008

Objective To investigate whether preparations containing Wallal and/or Warrego viruses could cause disease when inoculated subcutaneously into captive kangaroos.

Design and procedure Four groups of two kangaroos, seronegative to both Wallal and Warrego virus, were each inoculated with wild Wallal virus, cultured Wallal virus, wild Warrego virus, or wild Warrego virus followed by wild Wallal virus after 3 weeks. A single uninoculated animal served as a control. Animals were monitored weekly under anaesthesia, examined ophthalmoscopically (including fundic photography), and samples collected for haematological and serum biochemical analysis, virus isolation, PCR and serological examination for antibodies against Wallal and Warrego viruses. Animals inoculated with cultured Wallal virus were killed at week 10, and remaining kangaroos were reinoculated with cultured Wallal virus at week 12.

Results Virus was isolated from the blood of two kangaroos 2 weeks after inoculation with Wallal virus preparations, and from a third kangaroo 2 weeks after reinoculation. By 3 weeks after inoculation, all kangaroos given Wallal virus preparations had seroconverted to Wallal virus and one had seroconverted to Warrego virus. Fundic changes were detected in the three viraemic kangaroos 4 or more weeks after inoculation, and lesions were present in the eye and brain typical of those seen in field cases of chorioretinitis. No other kangaroos had lesions. Wallal virus was identified by PCR and immunohistochemical analysis in the retina of one affected animal and orbivirus‐like particles were seen by electron microscopy in the remains of retinal cells.

Conclusion The condition of chorioretinitis was reproduced in three of eight kangaroos by inoculation with preparations containing Wallal virus.
Molecular and biological characterisation of Cryptosporidium in pigs
Authors: MORGAN UM , BUDDLE JR , ARMSON A. , ELLIOT A. , THOMPSON RCA
Published: March 2008

Objective Genetic and biological characterisation of 12 isolates of Cryptosporidium from pigs and comparing them with Cryptosporidium isolates from humans and cattle.

Design
Cryptosporidium isolates from pigs were compared with those obtained from human and cattle using rDNA sequence analysis. The infectivity of two of the porcine isolates was determined in neonatal mice and the clinical history of the infected pigs recorded.

Results Pig‐derived isolates of Cryptosporidium exhibited two distinct genotypes; a porcine genotype and a bovine genotype, which is common to cattle and other livestock. The porcine genotype did not produce any infection in neonatal mice whereas the bovine genotype did.

Conclusion Two distinct genetically and biologically differing strains of Cryptosporidium appeared to be associ ated with acute diarrhoea in pigs. Whether Cryptosporidium was a primary or secondary pathogen is unclear but warrants further investigation. As the bovine genotype is known to infect humans, the results suggest that pigs can act as reser voirs of cryptosporidial infections for humans and other live stock. The zoonotic potential of the pig‐adapted genotype is uncertain and requires further study.
Fungal pneumonia in a captive black rhinoceros
Authors: WOODS R. , BLYDE DJ , SEAMAN JT , THORNE AH
Published: March 2008

A captive black rhinoceros (Diceros bicornis) with a hoof abscess was treated with long‐term antibiotic therapy. After 9 months of treatment, there was rapid deterioration, marked weight loss and reluctance to stand. Profuse, bilateral epistaxis developed accompanied by collapse and the animal was euthanased. Necropsy revealed pulmonary aspergillosis with concurrent Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection. Though a well‐recognised disease of black rhinoceros, fungal pneumonia has not been reported in this species in Australia. The cost and efficacy of treatment have been questioned, however, prophylactic antifungal drug administration will be considered in any further cases of chronic, debilitating illness in black rhinoceros at Western Plains Zoo.
Acute cortisol responses of lambs to ring castration and docking after the injection of lignocaine into the scrotal neck or testes at the time of ring application
Authors: SUTHERLAND MA , MELLOR DJ , STAFFORD KJ , GREGORY NG , BRUCE RA , WARD RN , TODD SE
Published: March 2008

Objective To test whether injecting lignocaine into the scrotal neck 5 to 10 s before or into both testes immediately after ring castration and docking would significantly reduce the plasma cortisol response to castration and docking.

Design A physiological study with controls.

Procedure Lambs were given one of six treatments: control handling, injection of lignocaine into scrotal neck, injection of lignocaine into both testes, ring castration and docking, ring castration and docking after lignocaine was injected into the scrotal neck, and ring castration and docking before lignocaine was injected into both testes. Blood samples were taken before and regularly after treatment and analysed for plasma cortisol concentrations.

Results The plasma cortisol concentrations of lambs castrated and docked after lignocaine had been injected into the scrotal neck were significantly lower between 20 and 60 min after treatment than in lambs castrated and docked without local anaesthesia. Injecting lignocaine into the testes after ring application did not significantly reduce the cortisol response to ring castration and docking.

Conclusions Lignocaine injected into the scrotal neck 5 to 10 s before ring castration will reduce the cortisol response and by inference the pain associated with ring castration.
GOODS AND SERVICES TAX UPDATE
Authors: Wood Douglas
Published: March 2008

The following article updates the implementation of GST. It is prepared for the benefit of members by Mr Douglas Wood, FCA, a partner of the Australian Veterinary Association's auditor, Foster Raffan. It has been decided that this update service be provided to assist all AVA members.
Torsion of the uterus in an Awassi ewe
Authors: IJAZ A , TALAFHA AQ
Published: March 2008

The treatment of a 4‐year‐old pluriparous Awassi ewe with torsion of the uterus at parturition is described. At presentation, all the signs of imminent parturition were present and the rostral portion of the vagina was spirally twisted to the right causing complete stenosis of the birth canal with no foetal fluid exiting the uterus. A 360° clockwise uterine torsion was diagnosed. Attempted treatment by rotation of the ewe's body proved unsuccessful. The condition was then corrected surgically via a left flank caesarean operation, and a dead foetus and foetal membranes were removed. The animal made an uneventful recovery and the sutures were removed on the 12th postoperative day.
Repair of cranial cruciate ligament rupture in an alpaca
Authors: MARRIOTT MR , DART AJ , MACPHERSON C , HODGSON DR
Published: March 2008

A mature male alpaca with acute lameness of the left hindlimb was diagnosed as having a rupture of the cranial cruciate ligament. Repair was achieved using a combination of surgical techniques. A patellar ligament autograft was passed under the cranial meniscal ligament, through the joint and over the femoral condyle, and anchored using a screw and washer. Two nylon sutures were passed through a hole made in the tibial crest, and secured under the screw. The alpaca was confined in a stall for 3 months. Exercise was then increased progressively for 3 months. One year after surgery the alpaca is sound and has resumed breeding activity.
Transmission of Babesia spp by the cattle tick (Boophilus microplus) to cattle treated with injectable or pour‐on formulations of ivermectin and moxidectin
Authors: WALDRON SJ , JORGENSEN WK
Published: March 2008

Objective To assess the efficacy of ivermectin and moxidectin to prevent transmission of Babesia bovis and Babesia bigemina by Boophilus microplus to cattle under conditions of relatively intense experimental challenge.

Design

Naive Bos taurus calves were treated with either pour‐on or injectable formulations of either ivermectin or moxidectin and then exposed to larvae of B microplus infected with B bovis or larvae or adults of B microplus infected with B bigemina. One calf was used for each combination of haemoparasite, B microplus life stage, drug and application route.

Procedure

Groups of calves were treated with the test drugs in either pour‐on or injectable formulation and then infested with B microplus larvae infected with B bovis or B bigemina. B bigemina infected adult male ticks grown on an untreated calf were later transferred to a fourth group of animals. Infections were monitored via peripheral blood smears to determine haemoparasite transmission.

Results

Cattle treated with either pour‐on or injectable formulations of ivermectin and moxidectin became infected with B bovis after infestation with infected larvae. Similarly, larvae infected with B bigemina survived to the nymphal stage to transmit the haemoparasite to animals treated with each drug preparation. Cattle treated with pour‐on formulations of ivermectin and moxidectin then infested with adult male ticks infected with B bigemina did not become infected with B bigemina whereas those treated with the injectable formulations of ivermectin and moxidectin did show a parasitaemia.

Conclusions Injectable or pour‐on formulations of ivermectin and moxidectin do not prevent transmission of Babesia to cattle by B microplus. Use of these drugs can therefore not be recommended as a primary means of protecting susceptible cattle from the risk of Babesia infection.
Effects of treadmill exercise on sweating in three breeds of goats
Authors: KASA IW , THWAITES CJ , HILL MK
Published: March 2008

Objective To compare the sweating responses of three breeds of goats to exercise at 30°C.

Design

Factorial experiment with two goats of each of three breeds exercised for 60 min at 3 km/h and 30°C on 6 days.

Procedure

Two mature females of the Anglo‐Nubian, Saanen and Toggenburg breeds were used. Rectal temperature, respiration rate and sweating rate at three sites were recorded every 20 min during six replicates of exercise at 48 h intervals on a treadmill.

Results

Respiration rate varied with time and breed (P < 0.01) and increased from 20±2 breaths/min to 135, 195 and 260/min after 60 min exercise in Anglo‐Nubian, Saanen and Tottenburg goats, respectively. Breed differences in rectal temperature were small but significant (P < 0.001), and mean values increased from 38.9°C before exercise to 39.7°C after 1 h exercise. The breed X sites interaction for sweating was significant (P < 0.01). On the rump breed differences in sweating rate were not significant. On the loin, Toggenburg goats started to sweat most rapidly and reached maximal values of 80.2±10.6 g/m2/h after 20 min and then decreased to 70.0±4.3 g/m2/h at 60 min. Sweating rate on the ear was highest in Toggenburg goats, followed by those of Saanen and Anglo‐Nubian goats (P < 0.05), but the differences were small (7 g/m2/h); peak values of 67.3 to 76.1 g/m2/h were recorded after 20 min.

Conclusion

Respiration and sweating rates increased significantly during exercise in all three breeds of goats, but breed differences were marked only for respiration rate. The goats sweated more on the rump than on the loin or ear, with peak values after 40 min of exercise.
Granulomatous peritonitis and pleuritis in interferon‐γ gene knockout mice naturally infected with mouse hepatitis virus
Authors: FRANCE MP , SMITH AL , STEVENSON R , BARTHOLD SW
Published: March 2008

Objective To investigate a disease outbreak in a colony of laboratory mice with targeted disruption of the gene for interferon‐γ

Format

A case report based on necropsy, histopathology, serology and immunohistochemistry.

Results

Affected mice exhibited depression and variable ascites. Necropsy revealed a granulomatous peritonitis and pleuritis with extensive adhesions although parenchymal lesions were minimal. Serum samples had high concentrations of antibody to mouse hepatitis virus and immunohistochemical examination revealed the presence of mouse hepatitis virus antigen in granuloma macrophages. Serological testing for other infectious agents and bacterial culture were negative and wild type mice kept in the same facility remained healthy. Despite the association between the disease and mouse hepatitis virus infection, the precise role played by mouse hepatitis virus was not determined. While the disease is superficially similar to feline infectious peritonitis (another coronavirus‐induced serositis), differences exist between the histopathological findings in these two conditions.

Conclusion

This unusual disease process illustrates how new diagnostic challenges can arise in novel mouse genotypes created through molecular genetics. Furthermore, the association between the disease and mouse hepatitis virus illustrates the importance of maintaining laboratory animals under specific‐pathogen free conditions.
What's in store for vets in 2000?
Authors: McGilvray Garth
Published: March 2008

WELCOME to the new millenium! I hope everyone that could had a great party and you are fully recovered from the side‐effects by now! The attitude of play hard/ work hard is one that is strong in Australia and especially so in Australian veterinarians.
Surgical treatment of tarsometatarsal joint luxation in a Miniature Horse foal
Authors: DOWLING BA , DART AJ , HODGSON DR
Published: March 2008

A 2‐week‐old Miniature Horse foal was referred for evaluation and treatment of a luxated right tarsometatarsal joint. Treatment consisted of closed reduction and internal fixation using two partially threaded Steinmann pins placed in normograde fashion through the tuber calcis into the proximal third metatarsus.

Traumatic luxation has been reported to occur in the tarsocrural, proximal intertarsal and tarsometatarsal joints within the equine tarsus. Treatment for luxation of the distal intertarsal joint has not been documented. The treatment method most commonly suggested for tarsal luxation is closed reduction and cast immobilisation. Internal fixation using lag screws and plating has also been described. A combination of internal fixation and external coaptation is thought to achieve maximal stability and allow faster convalescence in cases of tarsal luxation.

This case report describes for the first time a technique using two Steinmann pins to achieve successful internal fixation of a traumatic tarsometatarsal joint luxation in a 2‐week‐old Miniature Horse foal.
Mycobacterium genavenseinfection in two aged ferrets with conjunctival lesions
Authors: LUCAS A. , FURBER H. , JAMES G. , HUGHES MS , MARTIN P. , CHEN SCA , MITCHELL DH , LOVE DN , MALIK R.
Published: March 2008

Mycobacterium genavenseinfection was diagnosed in two adult ferrets. Disseminated mycobacteriosis was diagnosed in a castrated 5‐year‐old sable ferret with generalised peripheral lymph node enlargement and a proliferative lesion of the conjunctiva of the nictitating membrane. The diagnosis was based on characteristic cytology and sequence analysis of the 16S rRNA gene amplified using the polymerase chain reaction from fresh biopsy material. Therapy with rifampicin, clofazimine and clarithromycin probably cured the infection. An entire 4‐year‐old female ferret with conjunctival swelling, serous ocular discharge and swelling of the subcutaneous tissues of the nasal bridge was diagnosed as havingM genavenseinfection on the basis of typical cytology, histopathology and sequence analysis of 16S rRNA amplicons from formalin‐fixed paraffin‐embedded tissue. This patient was treated successfully using rifampicin. Both ferrets subsequently died as a result of other disease conditions, 10 and 4 months following initiation of therapy, respectively. This is the first report documentingM genavenseas a cause of disseminated mycobacterial disease in ferrets. Conjunctival involvement may be a feature of disseminated mycobacteriosis in the ferret. The possibility that these infections were the consequence of a ferret retrovirus infection should be considered further.
Mastitis, polyarthritis and abortion caused by Mycoplasma species bovine group 7 in dairy cattle
Authors: HUM S. , KESSELL A. , DJORDJEVIC S. , RHEINBERGER R. , HORNITZKY M. , FORBES W. , GONSALVES J.
Published: March 2008

Objective To report an outbreak of mastitis, polyarthritis and abortion caused by Mycoplasma sp bovine group 7 in three large, centrally‐managed dairies and to review the relevant literature.

Design Epidemiological, clinical and laboratory data were analysed, collated and reported. Multidisciplinary procedures were employed. These included clinical assessment and comprehensive laboratory investigations of affected calves, aborted foetuses and milk samples. Mycoplasma cultures and genetic analyses of isolates were undertaken to identify the aetiological agent.

Results About 30% of 240 calves usually kept in a calf rearing facility developed severe polyarthritis as a result of Mycoplasma sp bovine group 7 infection between 2 and 3 weeks of age. Multiple abortions occurred on these farms. Mycoplasma s p bovine group 7 was recovered from the fibrinopurulent synovial exudates of four 14‐day‐old calves, from the stomach contents and lungs of two aborted foetuses, from 14 of 21 bulk milk and four of 10 mastitic quarters. Three bulk colostrum samples cultured during the outbreak were negative for mycoplasma.

Conclusion
Mycoplasma s p bovine group 7 caused significant economic losses as a result of polyarthritis, abortion and mastitis. The disease probably originated from udder infections with spread being facilitated by the decreased use of tetracycline in the treatment of mastitis. Neonatal calves were most likely infected by the consumption of milk contaminated with the organism. Abortions presumably resulted from mycoplasmaemia. This appears to be the first report in Australia of bovine abortion resulting from Mycoplasma sp infection.
Prevalence of laryngeal paresis in dogs undergoing general anaesthesia
Authors: BROOME C. , BURBIDGE HM , PFEIFFER DU
Published: March 2008

ObjectiveTo estimate the prevalence of laryngeal paresis within a selected population of dogs and identify some of the distinguishing characteristics of affected dogs.

DesignA prospective study involving laryngoscopic examination of 250 dogs.

ProcedureThe laryngeal movements of 250 dogs undergoing general anaesthesia were observed. The severity of laryngeal paresis in these dogs was graded (0 = normal laryngeal movements, 4 = bilateral laryngeal paralysis). The following information was also recorded for each dog: age, sex, weight, breed, condition score, anaesthetic protocol, clinical suspicion of disease and observer.

ResultsTwenty five percent of the dogs examined had some degree of laryngeal paresis. Affected dogs were significantly older than unaffected dogs (P < 0.001). There was a trend for the severity of laryngeal paresis to increase with age. There was no difference between the sexes. Dogs with laryngeal paresis were significantly heavier than normal animals (P < 0.02). Overweight animals had a significantly higher laryngeal grade than those with a normal condition score (P < 0.05). Labrador Retrievers and Rottweilers had a significantly higher risk of having laryngeal paresis (P < 0.05). Clinical suspicion was found to have high diagnostic value. An intra‐class correlation coefficient for inter‐rater reliability between the two observers was 0.95.

ConclusionsLaryngeal paresis had a high prevalence in the animals surveyed and was strongly associated with age and breed. The results of this study are consistent with the concept of a progressive degenerative disease with a breed susceptibility. Clinical suspicion for the presence of the disease was a reliable indicator. The grading system used had a high degree of inter‐observer agreement.
Surveys in Papua New Guinea to detect the presence of Trypanosoma evansi infection
Authors: REID SA , COPEMAN DB
Published: March 2008

Objective To confirm serological evidence that Trypano‐soma evansi is present in Papua New Guinea.

Design Three surveys were undertaken in PNG during 1997/1998. Animals were selected for sampling on the basis of convenience. Samples of blood were examined for the presence of T evansi b y the haematocrit centrifugation technique (HCT) and mouse inoculation test (MI). Sera were tested in the field using the card agglutination test for trypanosomiasis/T evansi(CATT). Bovine sera were tested at James Cook University using an antibody‐detection ELISA (Ab‐ELISA). Results from testing bovine sera with the Ab‐ELISA and sera from wallabies with the CATT were analysed using FreeCalc to determine the probability that animals in these populations were infected with T evansi.

Results A total of 545 serum samples were collected. during the three surveys of which 39 cattle, two pig and three agile wallaby samples were positive with the CATT. All bovine sera collected were negative when tested with an Ab‐ELISA. T evansi was not isolated using the HCT or the MI from any of these animals.

Conclusion Based on the Ab‐ELISA results it was concluded that T evansi infection was not present in cattle in villages around Balimo at a minimum expected prevalence of 10% (P < 0.05) and, based on the CATT results, that infection was not present in wallabies on the Bula plain at a minimum expected prevalence of 10% (P < 0.1). These results indicate that it is unlikely that T evansi is endemic in PNG
Sorghum ergot (Claviceps africana) associated with agalactia and feed refusal in pigs and dairy cattle
Authors: BLANEY BJ , McKENZIE RA , WALTERS JR , TAYLOR LF , BEWG WS , RYLEY MJ , MARYAM R.
Published: March 2008

Objective To establish the aetiology and define the main clinical features of a syndrome characterised by severe feed refusal, death of piglets and reduced milk production in pigs and dairy cattle.

Design Clinical, pathological, toxicological and epidemiological examination of clinical cases in 10 piggeries and 4 dairies, located between 50 and 150 km southwest of Rockhampton.

Results All cases were associated with the feeding of sorghum grain infected with sorghum ergot (Claviceps africana). There was mild to severe feed refusal when the sorghum was first offered. Sows fed ergot before farrowing had shrunken udders, produced no colostrum, and displayed signs of oestrus. All of their piglets died, apparently from starvation: necropsy of a few piglets showed that they were born alive and walked, but had ingested no milk. Sows fed the grain after farrowing had severe reductions in milk production despite aggressive sucking by piglets, leading to very poor growth of piglets. There were no signs of infectious disease. Ergot in sorghum samples ranged from 1 to 31% ergot sclerotes by weight. Total alkaloid concentrations in mixed feeds ranged from 5 to 40 mg/kg, with dihydroergosine accounting for approximately 90%. At the same time, in the same districts, there were reports of feed refusal and reduced milk production from 4 dairy farms. Grain samples from these farms contained up to 17%C africana ergot sclerotia.

Conclusion Agalactia and feed refusal are classical signs of poisoning by rye ergot (C purpurea), but this is the first time that sorghum ergot has been associated with a similar syndrome.
Pulmonary cryptococcosis and Capillaria aerophila infection in an FIV‐positive cat
Authors: BARRS VR , MARTIN P. , NICOLL RG , BEATTY JA , MALIK R.
Published: March 2008

A 12‐year‐old, FIV‐positive, domestic longhair cat was presented with a history of sneezing and coughing during the previous seven months. On thoracic radiographs, a prominent bronchial pattern and three focal, opacified nodules were seen. Cytology of bronchoalveolar lavage fluid demonstrated spherical, capsulate, narrow‐necked, budding yeasts within macrophages. Culture of the fluid yielded a heavy growth of Cryptococcus neoformans var neoformans. The serum latex cryptococcal antigen agglutination test titre was 158. The cat was treated with itraconazole and the cough resolved over a 5‐month period but then recurred. Repeat thoracic radiographs showed resolution of the pulmonary nodules but a persistent bronchial pattern. Adult nematodes and ova with morphology characteristic of Capillaria aerophila were seen in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid and no yeasts were cultured from the fluid. The cryptococcal titre was zero. The lungworm infection was treated successfully with abamectin and the cough resolved. Immunosuppression related to FIV infection may have predisposed this cat to sequential respiratory tract infections.
Successful treatment of invasive nasal cryptococcosis in a ferret
Authors: MALIK R. , MARTIN P. , McGILL J. , MARTIN A. , LOVE DN
Published: March 2008

Invasive cryptococcal rhinitis due to Cryptococcus neoformans var gattii was diagnosed in a castrated, 5‐year‐old, albino ferret with subcutaneous swelling of the nasal bridge. The diagnosis was based on histology, needle aspirate cytology and positive culture on Sabouraud's dextrose agar and birdseed agar. The ferret was successfully treated using a long course of itraconazole (25 to 33 mg orally once daily with food) subsequent to surgical debulking of the lesion, using sequential cryptococcal antigen titre determinations to guide therapy.
Application of PCR assays to determine the genotype of Babesia bovis parasites isolated from cattle with clinical babesiosis soon after vaccination against tick fever
Authors: BOCK RE , LEW AE , MINCHIN CM , JESTON PJ , JORGENSEN WK
Published: March 2008

Objective To demonstrate the value of PCR assays to determine the genotypes of Babesia bovis in cattle with clinical signs of babesiosis within 3 weeks after vaccination against tick fever.

Design Samples from 5 cases of babesiosis in cattle soon after vaccination against tick fever were analysed in two PCR assays.

Procedure Parasite DNA was purified from blood taken from cattle with signs of babesiosis within 3 weeks of vaccination against tick fever. DNA was also prepared from the tissues of animals that died of babesiosis. Two PCR assays that amplify repeat sequences of DNA within the B bovis genes, Bv80 and BvVA1, were used to differentiate the genotypes of field isolates and vaccine strains of B bovis.

Results One of the five cases of babesiosis was found to be caused by a vaccine strain, but PCR analyses showed that the predominant isolate in the other four cases was not the vaccine strain.

Conclusions PCR assays on the DNA of B bovis obtained from the blood or tissues of cattle clinically affected with tick fever within 3 weeks after vaccination are useful to distinguish between vaccine strains and field isolates as the source of infection.
Association between milk production, somatic cell count and bacterial dermatoses in three dairy cattle herds
Authors: YERUHAM I , FRIEDMAN S , ELAD D , PERL S
Published: March 2008

ObjectiveTo determine the correlations between three bacterial dermatoses in cattle, milk production and bulk‐milk somatic cell count (BMSCC).

DesignField observations in three dairy cattle herds.

MethodsMilk production, BMSCC, fertility and all herd diseases were recorded by computerised dairy management systems. Each herd was visited twice weekly and the clinical signs, course of diseases and morbidity and culling rates were noted. Bulk‐tank milk was sampled twice monthly and analysed for somatic cell count. Bacteriological and histological examinations were carried out from samples collected from affected animals in the respective herds.

ResultsThe acute exudative form of dermatophilosis was diagnosed only in first‐ calving cows. The morbidity rate was 53% and the culling rate was 16% of the affected animals. The BMSCC increased by a factor of 2.4 times, and there was an average loss of milk production of 30%/cow/day in affected animals. Ulcerative lymphangitis was diagnosed in first‐calving cows (22%) and older cows (15%). The culling rate was 28%. The BMSCC increased by a factor of 17.3 times, and the average loss of milk production was 5.5%/affected animal/day. Papillomatous digital dermatitis (PDD) was diagnosed in first‐calving cows (25%) and in older cows (18%). The culling rate was 8%. The BMSCC increased by a factor of two times, and the average loss of milk production was 1.7%/affected animal/day.

ConclusionsThe correlations between three skin diseases (ulcerative lymphangitis, dermatophilosis, papillomatous digital dermatitis), milk production and BMSCC have been found to be unfavourable.
Acute bronchopneumonia associated withMycobacterium fortuituminfection in a dog
Authors: IRWIN PJ , WHITHEAR K , LAVELLE RB , PARRY BW
Published: March 2008

Mycobacterium fortuitumwas isolated in a sample of bronchial fluid collected by transtracheal aspiration from a 1‐year‐old Corgi dog with a productive cough of 10 days' duration and with radiographic and cytological features of acute suppurative bronchopneumonia. The dog responded favourably to intravenous gentamicin and cephalexin for three days and a six week course of oral ciprofloxacin. Saprophytic mycobacterial pneumonia should be considered in cases of severe pulmonary consolidation in young dogs.
Modified De Vita pinning technique for the management of canine hip luxation: preliminary findings
Authors: DOUGLAS IH
Published: March 2008

Objective To describe for the first time a modification of the De Vita pinning technique to manage hip luxation in the dog and to assess its use in a preliminary study.

Design A prospective, clinical study using five client‐owned dogs with naturally occurring injuries.

Procedure A modified De Vita pinning technique was employed, using a nonthreaded Steinmann pin to reduce the risk of trauma to the sciatic nerve during pin insertion. The pin was anchored by implanted Kirschner‐Ehmer clamps in an attempt to lower the risk of postoperative pin migration.

Results Surgical outcome was very favourable with respect to pain on manipulation, restriction of range of movement and lameness in all dogs as assessed by veterinary examination. In four of five dogs, owners also reported normal movement at rest, walk and trot. The fifth dog was lost to follow‐up.

Conclusion This preliminary study found that a modified De Vita pinning technique was useful in dogs with uni and bilateral hip luxation and hip luxation in the presence of other limb injuries. The modified technique may provide a sound surgical alternative to existing procedures. The described modification allows the use of a nonthreaded pin and also substantially reduces the risk of postoperative pin migration.
Syncope associated with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy in a dromedary camel
Authors: GUTIERREZ C , MONTOYA JA , HERRAEZ P , CORBERA JA , BELLOLI A , MORALES M
Published: March 2008

A case of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy in a dromedary camel (Camelus dromedarius) is described for the first time. The patient, a castrated 9‐year‐old animal, presented with a 6‐month history of several episodes of syncope after moderate exercise and later at rest. The syncope had a sudden onset and a duration of 30 to 45 seconds. After clinical, electro‐cardiographical and echocardiographical examination, a tentative diagnosis of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy was made. At necropsy, the heart had a globose shape and was firm on palpation. The left ventricular free wall and the inter‐ventricular septum were thickened in cross‐section and the left ventricular lumen was small. The clinical diagnosis was confirmed by histologic examination of heart tissue that demonstrated hypertrophy of myocardial fibres with vesicular nuclei and the presence of diffuse interstitial fibrosis.
Tensions used on girths on Thoroughbred racehorses
Authors: BOWERS J , SLOCOMBE R
Published: March 2008

Objective To determine commonly used girth tensions in Thoroughbred racehorses in the Melbourne metropolitan area.

Design A prospective industry survey.

Methods Strappers were instructed to tension girths, using the same saddle, under‐saddle packing and girth, sufficiently to hold the saddle for racing. These tensions were continuously recorded by an in‐line load cell in the girth. Seventeen strappers from five stables participated in the study, which was conducted on 91 horses.

Results Resting girth tensions varied considerably. The mean tension on inhalation was 13 ± 0.4 kg. Male strappers recorded higher tensions than females for all indices measured. Age and girth size of the horse did not significantly influence results.

Conclusion This study confirms that there is no standard for application of a girth and saddle in the Thoroughbred racing industry and the range of tensions applied was large. Strappers were unable to reliably apply the same tensions between horses. Values recorded at the extremes of the range seem inappropriate for racing conditions as low values would result in slippage of the saddle and higher values may result in girth galls and possible reduction in athletic performance. Further work is necessary to determine the point at which girth tension affects performance.
An evaluation of a hand‐held electrical resistance meter for the diagnosis of bovine subclinical mastitis in late lactation under Australian conditions
Authors: SEGUYA AG , MANSELL PD
Published: March 2008

Objective To assess the ability of a hand‐held device to differentiate between infected and noninfected bovine mammary glands according to the electrical resistance of milk, under Australian conditions.

Design A cross‐sectional study.

Procedure Milk samples were collected from 236 quarters of 60 cows selected from a commercial dairy herd with a high prevalence of mastitis. The true infection status of these quarters was determined using bacteriology. Various methods were used in an attempt to relate the electrical resistance of milk from each quarter to the presence or absence of infection in that quarter.

Results Although the electrical resistance of milk from infected quarters was generally lower than that of noninfected quarters, the overlap of readings between the two populations limited the ability of this device to indicate accurately whether a quarter was infected. The use of methods comparing the readings from each of the four quarters of a single cow did not allow the reliable detection of infected cows.

Conclusion Although this device may have some practical advantages in comparison with some other methods of diagnosing subclinical mastitis, the predictive value of the method was generally poor.
Characterisation of lymphosarcomas in Australian cats using polymerase chain reaction and immunohistochemical examination
Authors: WANG J , KYAW‐TANNER M , LEE C , ROBINSON WF
Published: March 2008

Objective To examine tumour tissue of cats with lymphosarcoma for the presence of feline leukaemia virus and feline immunodeficiency virus and analyse the immunophenotype of the tumours.

Design A retrospective study of feline lymphosarcoma cases.

Methods Formalin‐fixed, paraffin‐embedded tumour tissue of 14 feline lymphosarcomas was examined for the presence of feline leukaemia virus and feline immunodeficiency virus by polymerase chain reaction and immunohistochemistry. Using polyclonal and monoclonal antibodies against T and B lymphocytes, the phenotypic expression of the tumours was characterised.

Results No feline leukaemia virus antigen or proviral sequences were detected. Feline immunodeficiency virus proviral sequences were detected in two cases by polymerase chain reaction. Immunophenotyping of all 14 cases resulted in seven cases being classified as B‐cell phenotype, four as T‐cell phenotype, and the remaining three undetermined.

Conclusions In contrast to previous reports overseas, our results suggest that feline leukaemia virus infection appears to be an infrequent cause of lymphosarcoma in the cats that were necropsied. Feline immunodeficiency virus may have a role in lymphomagenesis. The potential role of feline immunodeficiency virus needs to be explored in more depth. Compared with most previous reports, B‐cell tumours were more common than T‐cell tumours in this series of cats.
Hyperostotic polyarthropathy in a rabbit ‐ a suspected case of chronic hypervitaminosis A from a diet of carrots
Authors: FRATER JL
Published: March 2008

Chronic hypervitaminosis A can occur in many species after excessive dietary intake of Vitamin A (retinol). The most common presentation of chronic hypervitaminosis A is a polyarthropathy with hyperostosis and ankylosis of various joints. This case report describes a probable case of naturally occurring hypervitaminosis A‐induced polyarthropathy in a rabbit after chronic ingestion of a diet made up almost exclusively of carrots. Carrots do not contain retinol, but are rich in provitamin A (or beta‐carotene). Rabbits are unique in that they can convert 100% of dietary beta‐carotene into retinol. A syndrome of naturally occurring hypervitaminosis A‐induced polyarthropathy has not been described in a rabbit before.
Survey on small animal anaesthesia
Authors: NICHOLSON A , WATSON ADJ
Published: March 2008

Objective To ascertain anaesthetic practices used currently for dogs and cats in Australia.

Methods A questionnaire was distributed to 4800 veterinarians throughout Australia, seeking data on numbers of dogs and cats anaesthetised per week; drug preferences for anaesthetic premedication, induction and maintenance; use of tracheal intubation, supplemental O2, nitrous oxide and anaesthetic antagonists; and types of vaporisers, breathing systems and anaesthetic monitoring devices used or available. Additional questions concerned proportions of different animal types seen in the practice, and the respondent's university and year of graduation.

Results The response rate was 19%; 95% of respondents graduated from Australian universities, about half since 1985. Most responses (79%) came from mainly small animal practices. On average 16 dogs and 12 cats were anaesthetised each week. Premedication was used more often in dogs than cats, with acepromazine and atropine most favoured in both species. For anaesthetic induction, thiopentone was most preferred in dogs and alphaxalone/alphadolone in cats. Inhaled agents, especially halothane, were preferred for maintenance in both species. Most respondents usually employed tracheal intubation when using inhalational anaesthetic maintenance, but intubation rates were lower during injectable anaesthetic maintenance and a minority of respondents provided supplemental O2. Nitrous oxide was administered regularly by 13% of respondents. The agents most frequently used to speed recovery from anaesthesia were doxapram and yohimbine. The most widely used vaporisers were the Fluotec Mark III and the Stephens machine. Most (95%) respondents used a rebreathing circuit for large dogs and a non‐rebreathing system was used for small dogs by 68% of respondents. Most respondents (93%) indicated some form of aid was available to monitor general anaesthesia: the three most mentioned were an apnoea alarm, oesophageal stethoscope and electrocardiogram.

Conclusion Diverse approaches were evident, but there appeared to be less variation in anaesthetising dogs: premedication was more frequent and less varied in type, while thiobarbituates dominated for induction and inhalants for maintenance. Injectable maintenance techniques had substantial use in cats, but little in dogs. Evident disparity between vaporisers available and circuits used suggested either confusion in terminology or incorrect use of some vaporisers in‐circuit. While most respondents used monitoring equipment or a dedicated observer to invigilate anaesthesia, the common reliance on apnoea alarms is of concern, because of unproven reliability and accuracy.
Systemic antibacterial drug use in dogs in Australia
Authors: WATSON ADJ , MADDISON JE
Published: March 2008

A survey of veterinarians' use of antibacterial drugs was conducted by distributing a questionnaire to Australian practitioners. Respondents were asked to indicate their general patterns of use of various systemic antibacterial drugs and drug combinations in dogs and their approach to certain specified clinical disorders. Overall, antibacterials of the p‐lactam type (penicillins and cephalosporins) were most commonly used. Other antibacterials with substantial use were doxycycline, sulphonamide‐trimethoprim, metronidazole, fluoroquinolones and clindamycin. Drug selection for different disorders was generally appropriate when compared with recommendations in recent texts, although inappropriate use was evident in some circumstances.
A retrospective study of the success of medical and surgical treatment of wild Australian raptors
Authors: PUNCH PIP
Published: March 2008

Objective To evaluate the results of medical and surgical regimens utilised to treat injured and diseased wild Australian raptors presented at our practice, and to determine if the time, effort and cost of treating the birds was justified in terms of the outcomes achieved.

Procedure All the practice's clinical records relating to the examination and treatment of wild raptors were reviewed for the period April 1994 to December 1998. The species of birds, the aetiology of their injuries or diseases, the treatment protocols and the outcomes of those treatments were correlated and tabulated for evaluation.

Results Fifteen Australian species of raptor were examined and treated. Complete records were available for 104 birds of prey, 73 being Accipitriformes and 31 Strigiformes. The poorest prognosis was for birds involved in motor vehicle impacts, while birds suffering malnutrition or starvation had higher survival rates. The overall rate of survival was 50%.

Conclusion Based on the severity of diseases and injuries at the time of presentation, the survival rate was considered acceptable. Veterinary involvement in the treatment of the wild raptors was necessary for the maintenance of the birds' welfare, and to determine appropriate treatments. Intangible benefits included increased practice staff satisfaction, and improving the veterinary professions' public image by providing pro bono treatment for Australian wildlife.
Unusual osteochondral lesions of the talus in a horse
Authors: SIMPSON CM , LUMSDEN JM
Published: March 2008

A 2‐year‐old Thoroughbred gelding was evaluated for a grade 3 out of 5 unilateral hind limb lameness. Flexion of the right hock and stifle joints (spavin test) exacerbated the lameness. Response to intra‐articular and perineural anaesthesia isolated the source of lameness to the tarsocrural area, despite an absence of tarsocrural joint effusion. Routine radiographic examination of the hock did not reveal any significant abnormalities. Skeletal nuclear scintigraphic evaluation revealed a focal region of increased bone activity in the proximal medial trochlear ridge of the talus. Flexed lateromedial radiographic views identified three discrete semicircular lytic lesions at the proximal articular margin of the medial trochlear ridge of the talus. Conservative management of the lesions was associated with a successful return to racing. The location and appearance of the osteochondral lesions of this report have not been previously reported and may be a manifestation of developmental orthopaedic disease and abnormal endochondral ossification. Nuclear scintigraphy and flexed lateromedial radiographic views facilitated identification of the lesions. This radiographic view is recommended when lameness is isolated to the tarsocrural joint and standard radio‐graphic projections fail to identify a cause.
Surgical correction of carpal valgus deformity in three alpacas
Authors: LIVINGSTON CK , DART AJ , DOWLING BA , DART CM , HODGSON DR
Published: March 2008

Two alpaca crias and one 14‐month‐old alpaca were referred for treatment of bilateral carpal valgus. In one cria, hemi‐circumferential periosteal transection and elevation combined with an ulna osteotomy was performed initially without success, however transphyseal bridging with screws and wires was used successfully in both crias to straighten the limbs. As the distal radial and ulna growth plates had closed in the 14‐month‐old alpaca, bilateral wedge ostectomies of the distal radius and transfixation casts were used to straighten and stabilise the limbs. The ostectomy sites healed and the alpaca is ambulatory, although carpal flexion is significantly reduced. Until the relationship between the growth rate of crias and the success of hemicircumferential periosteal transection and elevation and ulna osteotomy is established, transphyseal bridging may provide a more reliable result in crias with carpal valgus deformity and open physes. Wedge ostectomy and application of a transfixation cast can be used to correct severe carpal valgus deformities in alpacas with closed physes.