bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Eggshell thickness and porosity in budgerigars and their relationship to hatch‐ability
Authors: Baker J. R. , Baker R.
Published: April 2008

As part of an investigation into low chick production in relation to the number of eggs laid by exhibition budgerigars, a study was carried out into the role, if any, of shell thickness and porosity to water vapour. Shell thickness was the same in clear eggs, fertile eggs, those containing dead‐in‐shell embryos and those with desiccated contents, and averaged 0–2 mm. Shell porosity was found to be the same in most clear eggs, fertile eggs, eggs in which the embryo had died very early and eggs containing an infected dead‐in‐shell chick. These had an average water loss, under standard conditions, of 1–54 per cent of the initial weight per 24 hours. Non‐infected dead‐in‐shell eggs lost 0–27 per cent, eggs with desiccated contents, either an embryo or clear lost 7–95 per cent and cracked eggs, 5–64 per cent. The results indicate that some budgerigar eggs have an abnormal porosity to water vapour and that this may affect their hatchability.
Termination of mid‐term pregnancy in the dog with oral RU 486
Authors: Linde‐Forsberg C. , Kindahl H. , Madej A.
Published: April 2008

A total of four pregnancies were terminated in three bitches (two beagles and one flatcoated retriever) with a single dose of 20 mg/kg (one case), two doses of 8‐3 mg/kg (one case) or 20 mg/kg plus 40 mg/kg (two cases) RU 486 by mouth (Mifepristone; Roussel‐Uclaf, France) from day 26 to day 36 after the first day of mating of the bitch. Abortions occurred within two, four, 11 and 11 days after the initial treatment, respectively. The clinical status of the bitches was similar to that observed during a normal parturition, ie, lowering of the body temperature, shivering, panting and nesting behaviour. No side effects were seen. The beagle bitch that aborted twice, was mated at the first oestrus after the first abortion, conceived and aborted the same number of puppies the second time. The peripheral plasma progesterone concentration at the time of treatment in all bitches was < 75 nmol/litre. It had decreased to between 24‐2 and 13‐1 nmol/litre at the time of abortion and to between 4‐0 to 0–5 nmol/litre at four to 15 days after the initial treatment. Peripheral plasma levels of prolactin increased three‐ to fourfold within 24 to 48 hours after treatment, concomitant with the drop in progesterone and had returned to basal levels within two to three days. Prolactin concentrations also increased around the time of intrauterine fetal death. Prostaglandin F2aα‐metabolite concentrations increased slowly after treatment, and around the time of abortion the levels increased five‐ to 10‐fold. RU 486 seems to be a safe and effective abortifacient for use during mid‐term pregnancy in the dog.
Canine sialocoeles ‐ 60 clinical cases
Authors: Bellenger C. R. , Simpson D. J.
Published: April 2008

Sixty cases of canine sialocoele were reviewed from the records of the Sydney University Veterinary Teaching Hospital. Poodles, dachshunds and Australian silky terriers were significantly over represented in the survey when compared to the hospital sample population (P&0.01). No other statistically significant breed, sex, or age trends were noted. Neoplasia was associated with sialocoele formation in three cases. The sialocoele location was cervical (42), sublingual (four), pharyngeal (four), not recorded (one) or in more than one site (nine). Thirty‐five of 39 surgically treated cases were managed by extirpation of the mandibular and sublingual salivary glands together with drainage. Few complications were recorded. Forty‐two per cent of the cases had received previous veterinary treatment in the form of drainage alone. Drainage of saliva from sialocoeles without removal of the offending salivary glands is inappropriate.
Circulating autoantibodies in dogs with chronic liver disease
Authors: Andersson M. , Sevelius E.
Published: April 2008

Circulating autoantibodies are important diagnostic markers in human liver disease. Antinuclear antibodies, smooth muscle antibodies and liver membrane antibodies are characteristic of human autoimmune chronic active hepatitis, while antimitochondrial antibodies are most frequently found in primary biliary cirrhosis. The role of these autoantibodies in the pathogenesis and course of these diseases is not known, but they are routinely measured in order to discriminate between different liver diseases. This, in turn, helps to predict the response to different kinds of treatment. The present study reports the occurrence of circulating autoantibodies in sera of dogs with different forms of chronic hepatitis and cirrhosis, and in dogs with other liver diseases, such as acute hepatitis, liver degeneration and tumours. The results indicate several differences compared to the autoantibody patterns in human liver disease.
Muscle relaxants in canine anaesthesia 2: Clinical application
Authors: Jones R. S.
Published: April 2008

There are a variety of factors which are likely to influence the action of muscle relaxants in canine anaesthesia. These include age, body temperature and muscle diseases. Of the anaesthetic agents it is only the inhalational anaesthetic agents which significantly increase the duration of action of muscle relaxants. Antibiotic therapy particularly with the aminoglycoside antibiotics is likely to increase their duration of action. The indications for the use of muscle relaxants and the main contraindications such as the absence of anaesthetic equipment and the inability to ensure unconsciousness are discussed. The choice of anaesthetic technique together with a discussion on the premedication induction and maintenance of anaesthesia are important factors when using relaxants as is the technique of artificial ventilation. The various advantages and disadvantages of neuromuscular block monitoring are discussed as is the reversal of neuromuscular block.
Assessment of balloon pulmonary valvuloplasty in six dogs
Authors: Martin M. W. S. , Godman M. , Fuentes V. Luis , Clutton R. E. , Haight A. , Darke P. G. G.
Published: April 2008

The effectiveness of balloon valvuloplasty was assessed, clinically and haemodynamically, in six dogs with moderate to severe pulmonic stenosis. The haemodynamic assessment was based on Doppler echocardiography, with colour flow mapping, in the conscious dog and by direct catheterisation in the anaesthetised dog, before and after balloon valve dilatation. Four of the six dogs were presented with exercise intolerance, of which two were in congestive heart failure. Balloon valvuloplasty resulted in improved exercise tolerance and resolution of congestive heart failure in these dogs. The average Doppler and catheter transvalvular pressure gradients were reduced to 43 per cent and 46 per cent of the preoperative gradient, respectively. The average pressure gradient obtained by catheter, in the anaesthetised dog, was 59 per cent of the pressure gradient obtained by spectral Doppler echocardiography in the conscious dog. Balloon valvuloplasty was considered successful in five out of the six dogs. Postoperative pulmonic regurgitation was not found to be a complication of balloon valvuloplasty.
Congenital hypotrichosis in a French bulldog
Authors: Marks A. , van den Broek A. H. M. , Else R. W.
Published: April 2008

The occurrence of congenital alopecia in one of a litter of four female French bulldogs is described. With the exception of the hair coat the affected bitch was clinically normal. The distribution of the sparse hair (head, tip of the tail and paws) mimicked that seen in the Chinese crested dog. Histopathological examination of skin biopsies revealed features frequently observed in congenital alopecia ‐ a reduction in number of hair follicles, hypoplasia or absence of epidermal appendages and pronounced follicular hyperkeratosis, abnormalities of collagen and elastic fibres were not detected.
Complications of articular lag screw fixation of femoral capital epiphyseal separations
Authors: Miller A. , Anderson T. J.
Published: April 2008

Four femoral capital epiphyseal separations in three immature dogs were repaired using an articular lag screw procedure. Two millimetre cortical screws were inserted from the articular surface across the fracture site in lag fashion. The screw heads were countersunk below the surface of the articular cartilage to prevent abrasion of the apposing articular surface. Marked osteolysis of the femoral neck was noted between four and eight weeks postoperatively in all cases, and excision of the femoral head and neck was carried out in two cases at six and eight weeks postoperatively. It is believed that the surgery failed because of iatrogenic vascular insult and the development of coxofemoral instability.
Angiostroneylosis in Cornwall: Clinical presentations of eight cases
Authors: Martin M. W. S. , Ashton G. , Simpson V. R. , Neal C.
Published: April 2008

Clinical signs in eight dogs with Angiostrongylus vasorum infection included chronic cough, dyspnoea, lumbar pain, hindleg paresis/paralysis, abdominal pain, weakness and collapse; two of the dogs were asymptomatic. Thrombocytopenia was present in two dogs and a mild anaemia in one. Thoracic radiographs showed mild right heart enlargement in two out of three dogs and a pneumothorax in one. At post mortem examination in three dogs, the lungs were swollen with a mottled appearance and there was dilatation of the right ventricle. Adult A vasorum were found in the right heart, the pulmonary artery and its branches. Adult worms were also found in the systemic vasculature in one dog, associated with thromboembolism. Treatment with ivermectin in two dogs and fenbendazole in three dogs resulted in the resolution of clinical signs and no demonstrable larvae in the faeces one to two weeks later.
Water: Its form, function and importance in the skin of domestic animals
Authors: Chesney C. J.
Published: April 2008

Water is vital to life, and to the function of individual organs, yet its relevance to the skin of animals has received almost no attention. The barrier function of the skin is recognised, as is the importance of surface dwelling organisms, but the links between them are little known. Understanding, however, must begin with a consideration of the molecular structure of water and how this affects both physical and biophysical processes. Such processes critically influence the barrier and are fundamental to the way water passes through the skin, or is bound within it. At the skin surface a characteristic flora and fauna live in microclimate niches modulated by a varying water balance, itself modified by the presence of a hair coat. In normal animals the skin remains healthy despite a wide range of insults; a homoeostasis which would be rewarding to understand.
Secondary injury mechanisms in acute spinal cord trauma
Authors: Coughlan A. R.
Published: April 2008

There have been many recent advances in the understanding of the pathophysiology of acute spinal cord trauma which have influenced the approach to case management. Although the clinician has no control over the initial trauma, medical and surgical treatment regimens may be able to influence neuronal survival by interrupting the ensuing pathophysiological events. Acute spinal patients should always be regarded as emergencies. Intravenous access lines can normally be established during the initial patient evaluation and medical therapy instituted. At present, a short‐term, intensive methylprednisolone sodium succinate protocol is advocated. This regimen is aimed at maintaining tissue concentrations of the drug at a level consistent with the inhibition of free radical induced lipid peroxidation. Decisions can be made following further diagnostic work‐up as to the necessity for decompressive surgery or spinal stabilisation.
Partial hepatectomy in two dogs
Authors: Fry P. D. , Rest J. R.
Published: April 2008

A 10‐year‐old Jack Russell terrier bitch and a nine‐year‐old standard dachshund bitch were presented with abdominal enlargement and weight increase; neither had a history of ill health. In each case an extensive soft tissue mass was clearly palpable in the abdomen and following an exploratory laparotomy a partial hepatectomy was performed. Both bitches made a good postoperative recovery followed by a normal active life. In each case the survival time was six months before renewed tumour development lead to a sudden and rapid decline; case 1 was euthanased and case 2 died peacefully.
Radiographic diagnosis of an expansile bone lesion in a dog
Authors: Lamb C. R. , Berg J. , Schelling S. H.
Published: April 2008

An old dog had an expansile lesion affecting the ulnar diaphysis. The lesion had clinical and radiographic features typical of a bone cyst; however, computed X‐ray tomography indicated that the lesion had a tissue content incompatible with a true cyst. The histological diagnosis was osteosarcoma. This report emphasises the highly variable radiological appearance of canine osteosarcoma; biopsy is required to establish the diagnosis because the radiological signs may mimic a lesion of different aetiology.
Osteochondral lesion and cranial cruciate ligament rupture in an immature dog stifle
Authors: Macpherson G. C. , Allan G. S.
Published: April 2008

An osteochondral flap was present on the medial femoral condyle of a stifle of a six‐month‐old female rottweiler in which there was also a ruptured cranial cruciate ligament. The lesion was probably osteochondritis dissecans, but the possibilities of it being secondary to joint in‐stability or a subchondral fracture, as has been described in people with knee ligamentous injuries, are discussed.
Sudden death in related bloodhounds
Authors: Kelly D. F. , Newsholme S. J.
Published: April 2008

An unusual pattern of sudden, unexplained deaths occurred in a litter of 15 bloodhounds of which 12 had survived the neonatal period. Nine of these dogs died between the ages of six weeks and three years. Two others became unacceptably aggressive and were humanely killed at 18 and 22 months old. Of the nine dogs that died, five (four males, one female) did so unexpectedly and suddenly without previous illness or pre‐monitory signs. Post mortem examinations were carried out on only two of these five dogs, and in neither case was there evidence of organic dis‐ ease adequate to account for sudden death. Both dogs had incidental epicardial mesothelial fronds. The clinical history of these related dogs raises the suspicion of a possible familial or breed‐associated cardiac dysrhythmia, not recognised hitherto. Confirmation will require cardiological monitoring of related dogs and systematic post mortem examination of bloodhounds that die suddenly without premonitory signs.
Ocular manifestations of hyperlipoproteinaemia
Authors: Crispin S. M.
Published: April 2008

The ocular manifestations of hyperlipoproteinaemia include visible lipaemia of ocular blood vessels, corneal opacities, lipaemic aqueous and gross infiltration of the globe itself which is easiest to observe in the peripheral cornea and uveal tract. Both primary and secondary hyperlipoproteinaemia may produce ocular signs and the ocular appearance can be characteristic of the underlying lipoprotein disorder.
Familial po1ycystic kidnev disease in bull terriers
Authors: Burrows A. K. , Malikt R. , HuntS G. B. , Davey T. , Rothwells T. L. W. , Robinson W. F.
Published: April 2008

Polycystic kidney disease was observed in eight related bull terriers. Two dogs died suddenly, two were presented for haematuria, while the remainder were outwardly normal but detected during ultrasonographic screening programmes. A definitive diagnosis was made at either necropsy or using renal ultrasonography, although affected dogs also had abnormal urinalyses with haematuria, proteinuria, cast formation and sometimes bacterial infection. Valvular heart disease was detected clinically or at necropsy in all the affected dogs. The presence of polycystic kidney disease in several related dogs suggests that this condition is familial. The disease has clinical and pathological similarities with autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease of humans.
Peliosis hepatis and telangiectasis in 18 cats
Authors: Brown P. J. , Henderson J. P. , Galloway P. , O'Dair H. , Wyatt J. M.
Published: April 2008

Peliosis hepatis is an uncommon disease characterised by irregular blood‐filled cystic spaces in the hepatic parenchyma; it is often accompanied by telangiectasis (dilatation of the sinusoids) although this may also occur separately. The cause is unknown but the condition occurs in a range of species including man, cattle and dogs and a single case has been reported previously in a cat. In this report of 18 cases in cats, there had been intra‐abdominal haemorrhage in 11 of them.
Breath hydrogen excretion after oral administration of xylose to cats
Authors: Muir P. , Gruffydd‐Jones T. J. , Cripps P. J. , Papasouliotis K. , Brown P. J.
Published: April 2008

Maximum breath hydrogen excretion after the oral administration of xylose to 11 healthy cats ranged from 0.13 ml/hour to 0.47 ml/hour, with a mean of 0.18 ml/hour. After oral administration of xylose, breath hydrogen excretion in five cats with chronic diarrhoea and, or, vomiting was significantly different (P<0.001) compared with healthy cats. Increased breath hydrogen excretion occurred before xylose was given and at all measurement times after its administration to the sick cats (P<0.05), indicating carbohydrate malassimilation. In four sick cats, large increases in breath hydrogen excretion occurred, with maximum values ranging from 1.21 to 1.56 ml/hour, but in one cat the maximum value was only 0.28 ml/hour. Plasma xylose concentrations in cats with chronic diarrhoea and, or, vomiting were not significantly different from healthy cats (P>0.05) and thus did not demonstrate carbohydrate malassimilation. A hiatus hernia was seen on radiographic views of the thorax and abdomen of one cat with chronic vomiting. Inflammatory bowel disease was found in three of the five sick cats after upper gastrointestinal endoscopic examination and mucosal biopsy.Clostridiumspecies were isolated in increased numbers from the cats with chronic diarrhoea and, or, vomiting (P<0.005), after quantitative bacterial culture of small intestinal fluid specimens obtained endoscopically.Clostridiumspecies were isolated from all five cats with chronic diarrhoea and, or, vomiting but from only one of eight healthy cats. However, whether a specific bacterial pathogen caused the increased breath hydrogen excretion found in these cats could not be determined from this study.
Observations on exocrine pancreatic insufficiency in a family of English setter dogs
Authors: Boari A. , Williams D. A. , Famigli‐Bergamini P.
Published: April 2008

The aim of this paper is to report serum trypsin‐like immunoreactivity (TLI) concentrations in the progeny of a pair of English setters. These dogs had a history of producing puppies with a high prevalence of exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI) secondary to either congenital deficiency or early onset juvenile atrophy of pancreatic acinar cells. Serum TLI concentrations in the clinically healthy parents of the puppies with EPI were normal, as were serum TLI concentrations in the unaffected puppies. However, serum TLI concentrations were extremely low (less than 1 μg/litre) in three puppies at eight to 12 weeks of age when clinical signs of EPI were present. In addition, one of the three puppies, with low TLI concentrations at eight weeks of age, had serum TLI concentrations of 0.7 μg/litre at two weeks of age even though no clinical signs were evident at that time. These results suggest that serum TLI assay may be a useful diagnostic aid in identifying puppies at a very early age with this unusual form of EPI.
Radioactive iodine therapy for feline hyperthyroidism: Efficacy and administration routes
Authors: Mooney C. T.
Published: April 2008

The efficacy of radioactive iodine (131I) administration was studied in a series of 50 hyperthy‐roid cats. The dose administered to each cat was based on the clinical severity of the thyrotoxicosis, the serum total thyroxine (TJ concentration and the size of the goitre estimated by palpation. The activity ranged from 80 to 200 MBq (mean ± SD, 143 ± 24 MBq}. The131I was injected intravenously in 27 cases and subcutaneously in 23 cases. Each cat was hospitalised for 30 days after the injection. Regardless of the route of injection, none of the cats exhibited any side effects after therapy and all tolerated the hospitalisation period well. There was a significant (P<0.001) decrease in the serum total T4concentration (reference range, 10.4 to 42.0 nmol/litre) from a mean ± SD of 181.3 ± 111.4 nmol/litre (range, 43.8 to 575.6 nmol/litre) to a mean ± SD of 19.0 ± 29.6 nmol/litre (range, 2.0 to 175.7 nmol/litre) 30 days following the injection of the radioisotope. Five cats remained hyperthyroid, although in each case the serum total T4concentrations had decreased from pre‐treatment values. Two of the cats subsequently became euthyroid within three and five months of therapy, respectively, two were lost to adequate follow‐up and the remaining cat was successfully retreated four months later. Before treatment, four of these cases had high scores based on the three criteria used for dose estimation. Serum total T4concentrations below the reference range developed after treatment in many cases, but were often transient. Clinical evidence of hypothyroidism was not apparent in any cat. Recurrence of hyperthyroidism has not occurred in follow‐up periods of up to 32 months. There was no difference in the outcome between the cats injected intravenously or subcutaneously and the latter was considered to be safer and simpler. The administration of an approximated dose of131I proved to be an effective treatment for hyperthyroidism in 47 (94.0 per cent) of the cats and obviated the need for sophisticated nuclear computer facilities. There may be a lag period in some cases before euthy‐roidism is achieved and this should be considered before the administration of a second dose.131I can be administered subcutaneously without untoward effects.
Diagnosis and treatment of pyogranulomatous panniculitis due to Mycobacterium smegmatis in cats
Authors: Malik R. , Hunt G. B. , Goldsmid S. E. , Martin P. , Wigney D. I. , Love D. N.
Published: April 2008

Four cats with extensive pyogranulomatous panniculitis and dermatitis due toMycobacterium smegmatiswere evaluated over an eight‐month period. All were treated initially with doxycycline (50 mg per cat every eight to 12 hours) for several weeks, then subjected to radical surgical excision of infected tissues. Reconstructive surgery utilising advancement flaps was required to close wounds without undue tension. Postoperatively, the cats received parenteral gentamicin (2 mg/kg every eight hours) for three to five days, followed by orally administered ciprofloxacin (62.5 mg per cat every eight hours or 125 mg per cat every 12 hours) for three to six months. Infection was eradicated in all the cats, with no signs of recurrence 15 to 23 months after surgery.
Small intestinal disease – is endoscopic biopsy the answer?
Authors: Hall E. J.
Published: April 2008

Endoscopic biopsy of the canine and feline small intestine is becoming more widely available and is generally preferred to surgical biopsy. However, it has limitations which must be recognised if the appropriate interpretation of biopsy findings is to be made. Lack of histological changes in biopsy specimens is a frequent and often frustrating finding, until it is understood that it may reflect either the inevitable problem of examining only the proximal intestine or the fact that not all intestinal diseases are associated with morphological changes. Some newer advances in non‐biopsy methods for investigating small intestinal disease are described.
Maxillary central giant cell granuloma in a dog
Authors: Johnson K. A. , Cooley A. J. , Muir P. , Enkevort B. A. Van
Published: April 2008

A young labrador dog had a rapidly enlarging osteolytic lesion of the left maxillary bone. The histological diagnosis was central giant cell granuloma. This is a benign, non‐neoplastic lesion that has some radiographic and histological similarities to malignant bone tumours of this region. The importance of biopsy in making the diagnosis is emphasised because surgical treatment of central giant cell granuloma by resection or curettage usually resolves these lesions.
Tarsal injuries in the cat: A retrospective study of 21 cases
Authors: Schmökel H. G. , Hartmeier G. E. , Kaser‐Hotz B. , Weber U. Th.
Published: April 2008

A retrospective study of 21 surgically treated feline tarsal injuries showed that the degree of soft tissue trauma was the main parameter influencing the long term outcome. Generally, tarsal fractures could be successfully reconstructed and managed by internal fixation. Simple rupture of a collateral ligament could be sutured or treated with a suture prosthesis, resulting in a good long term result. Intertarsal instabilities were successfully treated by the application of miniplates resulting in stable ankyloses. Talocrural luxations evaluated in this study had a poor long term outcome. Further research is needed to show if alternative postoperative management involving early mobilisation and physiotherapy might improve the outcome of talocrural luxations with severely damaged soft tissues.
Diagnosis and management of pancreatitis
Authors: Williams D. A.
Published: April 2008

While there is no single diagnostic approach, other than direct examination of the pancreas, that is completely reliable for the diagnosis of pancreatitis, a presumptive diagnosis of acute pancreatitis can be made with a good degree of confidence by careful evaluation of the entire clinical picture ‐ history and clinical signs, results of physical examination, abdominal imaging and laboratory testing. The approach to treatment is to rest the pancreas, by withholding food, while providing general supportive care by fluid therapy including, in severe cases, plasma transfusion to replace plasma protease inhibitors and albumin. Additional specific interventions in an effort to halt the progression of spontaneous pancreatitis have not yet been shown to be effective, but control of obesity and avoidance of high fat diets may help prevent pancreatitis or lessen its severity when it occurs. Pancreatitis is an unpredictable disease of widely varying severity. While many patients with uncomplicated pancreatitis recover spontaneously following several days of supportive care, other patients die in spite of prolonged intensive care.
Evaluation of renal biopsies in cats and dogs — histopathology in comparison with clinical data
Authors: Minkus G. , Reusch C. , Hörauf A. , Breuer W. , Darbès J. , Kraft W. , Hermanns W.
Published: April 2008

Histopathological findings of renal biopsies in cats and dogs with diffuse nephropathies generally lead to an exact diagnosis and facilitate prognostic judgements. Complications following renal biopsy are usually slight, provided the biopsy is performed properly. Routine renal laboratory data have been compared with histopathological findings. High urine protein values are often the result of glomerular lesions, whereas high creatinine values are frequently related to tubulointerstitial lesions. In general, there is no relationship between different types of nephropathy and age; nevertheless animals with chronic tubulointerstitial nephritis were, on average, older than animals with glomerulopathies.
Effect of body position on oesophageal and gastric pressures in the anaesthetised dog
Authors: Waterman A. E. , Hashim M. A. , Pearson H.
Published: April 2008

The effect of body position on lower oesophageal sphincter pressure (LOSP), gastric pressure and barrier pressure (BrP) was investigated in 40 dogs anaesthetised for neutering procedures. The dogs were placed in lateral recumbency followed by dorsal recumbency (group 1) or vice versa (group 2). LOSP decreased significantly in the animals which were positioned initially in lateral recumbency, when they were then placed in dorsal recumbency, while those initially positioned in dorsal recumbency showed no significant change in their LOSP or BrP when their position was altered to lateral recumbency. When the data from both groups were pooled, LOSP and BrP were significantly lower when the dogs were in dorsal compared to lateral recumbency (P<0–05).
Antebrachial deformities in the dog: Treatment with external fixation
Authors: Fox S. M. , Bray J. C. , Guerin S. R. , Burbridge H. M.
Published: April 2008

The results of 12 dogs with antebrachial deformity treated by ulnar ostectomy, radial osteotomy and external skeletal fixation are presented. Postoperative complications were seen in only one dog; a delayed union requiring placement of autogenous cancellous bone graft at a second surgery to achieve healing. Postoperatively, owners reported limb function was good in almost all cases, although they were less pleased with the cosmetic appearance.
Use of a pedicled rectus abdominis muscle flap for repair of a failed vesicourethral anastomosis in a dog
Authors: Berger D. , Bright R. M. , McCrackin M. A.
Published: April 2008

A 10‐year‐old mixed breed dog underwent a prostatectomy for an adenocarcinoma. Within three days the dog had signs of a uroperitoneum. Re‐exploration revealed that a portion of the vesicourethral anastomosis had failed. Primary suturing of the tissue along the site of dehiscence following debridement of the devitalised tissue was impossible. A rectus abdominis muscle flap was created and successfully used to repair the site of leakage.
Mast cell tumour destruction in dogs by hypotonic solution
Authors: Grier R. L. , Guardo G. Di , Myers R. , Merkley D. F.
Published: April 2008

Distilled water was studied as an hypoosmotic oncolysis agent to prevent mast cell tumour (MCT) recurrence following surgical excision. The results from 118 MCTS excised in 74 dogs were: surgery alone, a recurrence rate of 52·6 per cent (10/19); and surgery followed by distilled water injections into the wound, a 26·2 per cent (26/99) recurrence rate. All of 10 small MCTS (0·03 to 0·25 cm3) injected with distilled water in situ with no surgery, regressed. The present data suggest that distilled water should be considered as an adjunct to surgery for canine MCTS.
Canine conjunctival papilloma: A review of five cases
Authors: Sansom J. , Barnett K. C. , Blunden A. S. , Smith K. C. , Turner S. , Waters L.
Published: April 2008

Five cases of unilateral bulbar conjunctival papillomata are reported in five different breeds of dog. The dogs ranged from six to nine years of age, four were female and one was male. In all but one case the mass was an incidental finding. The morphology and histopathology are described. The authors have been unable to find any details or descriptions of this type of papilloma in the veterinary literature.
Pericardial effusion in a dog with rhabdomyosarcoma in the right ventricular wall
Authors: Gonin‐Jmaa D. , Paulsen D. B. , Taboada J.
Published: April 2008

A seven‐year‐old male labrador retriever presented in right heart failure with weak femoral pulses, and pleural, abdominal and mild pericardial effusion. No diagnosis could be established initially. Two days later, the dog developed severe pericardial effusion causing cardiac tamponade. A tumour in the right ventricular wall was visualised on ultrasonographic examination. An exploratory thoracotomy was performed and biopsies of the mass submitted for histopathological examination. A diagnosis of rhabdomyosarcoma arising from the myocardium was established. Cardiac rhabdomyosarcoma has been reported in only two dogs. Neither report was associated with pericardial effusion.
Hypovolaemic shock after anthelmintic treatment of canine angio‐strongylosis
Authors: Søland J. , Bolt G.
Published: April 2008

Canine angiostrongylosis was diagnosed in a whippet with typical signs of respiratory and circulatory distress. Subclinical Angiostrongylus vasorum infections were also demonstrated in two other whippets belonging to the same owner. All three dogs were given standard anthelmintic levamisole treatment combined with corticosteroids. Two days after initiation of treatment, one of the subclinically infected dogs developed severe hypovolaemic shock that required intravenous fluid therapy and corticosteriods to save its life. The shock is believed to have been caused by an anaphylactic reaction triggered by the rapid release of a large amount of worm antigen in the blood due to the rapid death of adult worms by levamisole. Thus, dog owners should be instructed to monitor dogs undergoing levamisole treatment against A vasorum. Alternatives to levamisole treatment of canine angiostrongylosis should be considered.
Destructive polyarthritis in a dog with leishmaniasis
Authors: Wolschrijn C. F. , Meyer H. P. , Hazewinkel H. A. W. , Wolvekamp W. Th. C.
Published: April 2008

The clinical history and diagnosis of a dog with leishmaniasis involving both elbow joints and the skin is described. The dog, a female, five‐year‐old crossbreed, had been imported from Majorca (Balearic Islands, Spain) four years before the diagnosis was made. For two years, the dog had had bilateral forelimb lameness. Physical examination revealed swollen, painful and crepitating elbow joints. Furthermore, an ulcerating dermatitis was found on the concave surface of the left pinna and necrotising margins on both ears. Radiographs of the elbow joints revealed complete destruction of the joint surfaces with dislocation of the radius and the ulna, compatible with severe osteolytic arthritis. The diagnosis of leishmaniasis was confirmed by a direct agglutination test.
Osteochondromatosis of the cervical spine causing compressive myelopathy in a dog
Authors: Caporn T. M. , Read R. A.
Published: April 2008

A 10‐month‐old Alaskan malamute presented with cervical pain and hindlimb proprioceptive deficits. Plain and myelographic radiographic studies of the cervical spine demonstrated extradural compression of the spinal cord at the level of C7 and C5. Computed tomography assisted presurgical characterisation of the lesions as osteochondromatosis. Laminectomy permitted successful removal of the lesions.
Von Wille‐brand's disease in UK dober‐manns: Possible correlation of a polymorphic DNA marker with disease status
Authors: Holmes N. G. , Shaw S. C. , Dickens H. F. , Coombes L. M. , Ryder E. J. , Littlewood J. D. , Binns M. M.
Published: April 2008

Ninety‐one dobermanns have been typed for a polymorphic microsatellite DNA marker situated within an intron of the von Willebrand factor gene and the alleles correlated with von Wille‐brand's disease status. Two alleles were identified, one associated only with the normal gene and the other with both normal and disease genes.
New combination for the therapy of canine otitis externa I Microbiology of otitis externa
Authors: Kiss G. , Radványi Sz. , Szigeti G.
Published: April 2008

In order to compound a new drug comblnatlon agalnst canlne otitis externa (OE), 515 dogs affected wlth OE were subjected to physical examlnatlon and mlcroblologlcal analysis of their ear exudates. OE was erythematous‐cerumlnous In 83 per cent and suppurative In 17 per cent of the patlent material. Erythematous‐cerumlnous lnflammatlons were characterlsed by severe prurltus and accumulatlon of brownlsh, greasy cerumen In the audltory canal. The yeast Malassezla jmchydermat/s was Isolated from the ears of 76 per cent of the dogs, often In comblnatlon wlth Staphylococcus lntermedlus bacterla. M pachydermatls showed the most sensltlvlty, In decreasing order of efflcacy, to ketoconazole, econazole, clotrlmazole, mlconazole and nystatln. S lntermedlus Isolates were most sensltlve to amoxyclllln‐clavulanlc acld, enrofloxacln, cephalexln and gentamlcln. The mlcroorganlsm most frequently Isolatcbd from dogs wlth suppurative OE was Pseudomonas aewglnosa; In some cases Proteus, Streptococcus and Pasteurella were also Isolated. The P aeruglnosa Isolates showed the highest sensltlvlty to gentamlcln, polymyxln B and tobramycln.
Thyroid‐stimulating hormone and total thyroxine concentrations in euthyroid, sick euthyroid and hypothyroid dogs
Authors: Ramsey I. K. , Evans H. , Herrtage M. E.
Published: April 2008

Canine thyroid‐stimulating hormone (cTSH) was measured in a variety of clinical cases (n= 72). The cases were classified as euthyroid, sick euthyroid, hypothyroid or hypothyroid on non‐thyroidal therapy on the basis of their history, clinical signs, laboratory results (including total thyroxine concentrations and, where indicated, thyroid‐releasing hormone [TRH] stimulation tests) and response to appropriate therapy. Additional samples were taken during some of the TRH stimulation tests to measure the response of cTSH concentrations following TRH administration. A reference range (0 to 0–41 ng/ml) was calculated from the basal concentrations of cTSH in a group of 41 euthyroid dogs. Six of nine cases of confirmed hypothyroidism had basal cTSH concentrations above the reference range, whereas the remainder were within the normal range. One of these three remaining cases was a pituitary dwarf and did not show a rise in cTSH concentration following TRH stimulation. In contrast, only one of a group of six hypothyroid dogs that had been on non‐thyroidal treatment within the previous four weeks had increased concentrations of basal cTSH. This study also found that five of a group of 16 dogs with sick euthyroid syndrome had increased cTSH concentrations. It was concluded that cTSH measurements are a useful additional diagnostic test in cases of suspected hypothyroidism in dogs but that dynamic testing is still required to confirm the diagnosis of hypothyroidism.
Immunopathogenesis of canine aural haematoma
Authors: JOYCE J. A. , Day M. J.
Published: April 2008

Data are presented from 15 dogs with aural haematoma. The series included six Labrador retrievers and four golden retrlevers and the mean age was 8.0 ± 3.02 years. Five dogs had evidence of pruritic skin disease and five further cases had other concurrent disease. Haematoiogy and serum biochemistry were normal in 12 and 13 of the 15 dogs, respectively. Ail dogs were Coombs' negative and serum antinuclear antibody had negative or low titres in ail the 11 cases tested. Histopathological examination of biopsies from the affected ears revealed variable degrees of erosion of auricular cartilage with fibrovascular granulation tissue filling the cartilage defects. There was minimal perichondrai inflammation. The biopsies were studied by immunohistochemlstry for deposition of lmmunoglobulln G (IgG), immunogiobulln M (IgM) and complement C3. In one dog there was basement membrane zone deposition of IgG and in another there was focal interepithellai deposition of both igG and IgM. The findings of this study do not support an autoimmune pathogenesis for canine aural haematoma, but suggest that an early immunological event may underlie the observed cartilage erosion.
Metacarpal and metatarsal fractures in dogs
Authors: MUIR P. , NORRIS J. L.
Published: April 2008

Metacarpal fractures were more common than metatarsal fractures in this retrospective study of 37 dogs. Fractures of one metacarpal or metatarsal bone occurred In 24 per cent of the dogs, two metacarpal bones in 16 per cent, three metacarpal or metatarsal bones in 19 per cent, and four metacarpal or metatarsal bones in 41 per cent. Eighty‐seven per cent of the dogs with fractures of four bones had fracture displacement or malalignment of at least one digit. Progressive fracture healing usually occurred Irrespective of stabilisation method. For malaligned fractures, however, external coaptation did not consistently improve alignment. Fracture alignment was consistently Improved by open reduction and internal fixation of acute fractures with bone plates. Fractures of four bones occurred most often In the distal metacarpus as opposed to the proximal metatarsus. Therefore, open reduction and internal fixation may be more commonly indicated for severe metacarpal fractures, because fracture displacement or axial1 malalignment was significantly associated with fractures of the mid or distal regions of the metacarpus or metatarsus (P=0.052).
Retrospective analysis of 19 cases of isolated torsion of the splenic pedicle in dogs
Authors: NEATH P. J. , BROCKMAN D. J. , SAUNDERS H. M.
Published: April 2008

Nineteen cases of isolated splenic torsion in the dog were reviewed retrospectively. Perioperative data were anaiysed in order to determine prognostic indicators of morbidity and mortality for animals with this disease. The Great Dane and German shepherd dog were found to be at increased risk for this condition. The historical features of splenic torsion were non‐speclflc and included intermittent signs of gastrointestinal disease and abdominal discomfort. Mean duration of malaise was eight days, but 17 dogs were presented because of a rapid deterioration in their condition. Abdominal ultrasound findings assisted in the decision to perform surgery in ail the dogs on which it was performed. Eighteen animals had splenic torsion confirmed at surgery and were treated by total splenectomy. Ail 18 surgically managed dogs survived. Analysis of pre and postoperative data failed to reveal preoperative parameters that consistently predicted postorative complications.
Review of thymic pathology in 30 cats and 36 dogs
Authors: Day M. J.
Published: April 2008

Data are presented from 30 cats and 36 dogs in which thymic disease was recognised clinically or on postmortem examination. The diagnoses included thymic lymphoma (19 cats, l 2 dogs), thymoma (five cats, 18 dogs), thymic branchial cyst formation or cystic change (one cat, four dogs), thymic hyperplasia (two cats), congenital hypoplasia (one cat, one dog), thymic haemorrhage (one cat, one dog) and thymic amyloidosis (one cat). Thymic lymphoma occurred in younger dogs and cats, and was recorded equally among domestic shorthaired and purebred (especially Siamese) cats. Eight cats with thymic lymphoma were tested for feline leukaemia virus and four were positive. Thymoma occurred more frequently in older cats and dogs, and in Labradors and German shepherd dogs. Thymic tumours were associated with paraneoplastic hypercalcaemia (six dogs), megaoesophagus (two dogs) or interface dermatitis with basement membrane immune complex deposition (one cat). Non‐neoplastic thymic diseases were associated with myasthenia gravis (one cat), pemphigus foliaceus (one cat) and superficial necrolytic dermatitis (one cat).
Sacral fractures in dogs and cats: a classification scheme and review of 51 cases
Authors: Anderson A. , Coughlan A. R.
Published: April 2008

classification scheme for sacral fractures was based on a review of sacral fractures in 34 dogs and 17 cats. They were classified into five categories based on their radiographic appearance on standard lateral and ventrodorsal radiographs of the pelvis. Concomitant pelvic injuries were commonly observed: 32 per cent of dogs had a fracture of an ilium and 65 per cent of cats had unior bilateral sacroiliac subluxation. Neurological deficits were common where the fractures traversed the spinal canal or sacral foraminae. Comparison is made between sacral fractures in dogs and cats, and humans.
Salivary gland necrosis in dogs: a retrospective study of 19 cases
Authors: Schroeder H. , Berry W. L.
Published: April 2008

Salivary gland necrosis has been described in dogs and is characterised by enlarged, hard, painful salivary glands, retching and vomition or regurgitation. The cause has yet to be determined. A retrospective study of 19 dogs with the same clinical signs was undertaken for breed, age, gender, history and presenting signs, diagnostic evaluations and findings, treatment and outcome. An underlying association was identified in 16 of the 19 dogs. This includedSpirocerca lupiinfestation (seven dogs), megaoesophagus (three dogs) and oesophagitis, oesophageal diverticulum, giardiasis and suspected autoimmune sialadenitis. Almost all associated lesions involved the oesophagus. Where the associated disease was successfully treated, the salivary glands returned to normal and all clinical signs resolved. It is hypothesised that an afferent vagal reflex may be involved, and that the mechanism of disease is similar to the neural pathogenesis suggested for hypertrophic osteopathy; in this instance, the efferent targets are the salivary glands rather than the limbs.
Use of milbemycin oxime in the treatment of dogs with nasal mite (Pneumonyssoides caninum) infection
Authors: Bredal W. , Vollset I.
Published: April 2008

Clinical diagnosis of canine nasal mite (Pneumonyssoides caninum) infection is difficult due to the mite's location in the caudal nasal cavity and frontal sinuses. The current study was performed to evaluate the efficacy of milbemycin oxime in treating dogs with nasal mite infection. A prospective open uncontrolled study included 20 dogs with case histories indicating possible nasal mite infection. Inclusion criteria consisted of either nasal mites being demonstrated (group 1, four dogs), or suspicious clinical signs with no other apparent causes, combined with eosinophilia (group 2, 16 dogs). Milbemycin oxime 1 mg/kg was given orally three times at 10‐day intervals. In 17 (85 per cent) dogs, clinical signs resolved completely following milbemycin therapy; within 10 days of the first treatment in 13 cases (group 1, four dogs; group 2, nine dogs) and within 14 days in four cases. In the remaining three dogs clinical signs persisted but were diminished.
Unusual congenital portosystemic communication resulting from persistence of the extrahepatic umbilical vein
Authors: Brockman D. J. , Brown D. C. , Holt D. E.
Published: April 2008

An unusual congenital portosystemic shunt was identified in one dog and two cats with clinical signs and laboratory evidence of hepatic dysfunction. In all the animals, the abnormal vessel arose from the portal system between the left medial and quadrate liver lobes and travelled within the falciform fat, exiting the abdomen through the caudal ventral left diaphragm. The intrathoracic course of these vessels was not established. The anatomical location of this anomalous vessel may have hindered attempts at ultrasonographic identification since it was not visualised before surgery in any of the animals. In addition, while the anatomical location of the vessel may facilitate rapid identification and surgical attenuation, it could predispose the vessel to trauma during the coeliotomy approach. It is hypothesised that this form of portosystemic communication results from failure of a portion of the left umbilical vein to degenerate during embryogenesis. This is in contrast to other forms of congenital extrahepatic portosystemic shunt that are presumed to be developmental errors resulting in an abnormal communication between the embryonic vitelline and cardinal venous systems. The prognosis for animals with the vascular anomaly reported here is probably similar to that for animals with other forms of congenital portosystemic shunt.
Multiple myeloma with associated polyneuropathy in a German shepherd dog
Authors: Villiers E. , Dobson J.
Published: April 2008

A 12‐year‐old female, neutered German shepherd dog developed progressive hindlimb followed by forelimb ataxia leading to tetraplegia. Neurological examination suggested lower motor dysfunction. Biochemical evaluation revealed a monoclonal hypergammaglobulinaemia, hypoalbuminaemia and hypercalcaemia. Multiple lytic lesions were identified radiographically in numerous bones. A bone marrow aspirate confirmed the diagnosis of multiple myeloma, with large numbers of plasma cells seen in clusters. An electromyogram revealed positive sharp waves and fibrillation potentials in the skeletal muscles of the limbs, suggesting a polyneuropathy. The dog was treated with chemotherapy using melphalan and prednisolone. Both the hypergammaglobulinaemia and the polyneuropathy resolved and the dog had normal motor function four weeks after commencing treatment. Polyneuropathy may occur as a paraneoplastic syndrome secondary to myeloma, and in this case was reversible following treatment of the underlying disease.