bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prevalence and severity of lameness in lactating dairy cows in a sample of Minnesota and Wisconsin herds
Authors: Wells S. J. , Trent A. M. , Marsh W. E. , Robinson R. A.
Published: December 2023

An epidemiologic study investigating the prevalence of lameness in lactating dairy cows was performed in 17 dairy herds in Minnesota and Wisconsin. The mean herd size was 50 cows. Cows from 14 herds were housed in stanchions or tie stalls, and cows from 3 herds in free stalls or dry lot. During visits to each farm in the summer and subsequent spring, 2 investigators simultaneously but independently evaluated the ambulation of lactating cows by use of a standardized scoring system. The lameness scoring system was reliable at the 2 visits, with 92.7 and 91.3% agreement between the 2 observers and κ coefficients of 0.60.

The prevalence of lameness detected by the investigators (“clinical” lameness) was 13.7% (117/853) in summer and 16.7% (134/801) in spring in lactating dairy cows. These prevalences were 2.5 times higher than those estimated by the herd managers. Parity was significantly (P ≤ 0.03) associated with lameness, with higher prevalence of clinical lameness found in cows of higher parity.
Use of synthetic prostaglandin E1 (misoprostol) for prevention of aspirin-induced gastroduodenal ulceration in arthritic dogs
Authors: Murtaugh Robert J. , Matz Michael E. , Labato Mary Anna , Boudrieau Randy J.
Published: December 2023

A randomized, double-blind, controlled study was performed with 18 arthritic dogs administered aspirin (25 mg/kg of body weight, po, q 8 h) and excipient (control group) or aspirin and misoprostol (100 μg, po, q 8 h). Dogs in the misoprostol (n = 10) and control (n = 8) groups were primarily compared by use of sequential gastroduodenoscopy, changes in pcv, and prevalence of clinical signs of gastrointestinal disturbance over a 14-day treatment period. The misoprostol/aspirin-treated group had significantly (P < 0.05) less gastroduodenal hemorrhage and ulceration and a significantly (P < 0.05) lower prevalence of vomiting than did the control group.
Ovarian and endocrine patterns associated with reproductive abnormalities in llamas and alpacas
Authors: Bravo P. W. , Stabenfeldt G. H. , Fowler M. E. , Lasley B. L.
Published: December 2023

Ovarian activity was characterized in llamas and alpacas with hypoplastic ovaries, cystic follicles, or ovulatory failure. Ovarian follicular activity was determined by transrectal ultrasonography and urinary estrone sulfate analysis; pituitary response was determined by measurement of plasma concentrations of luteinizing hormone. Llamas and alpacas with hypoplastic ovaries had follicles ≤ 6 mm (minimal ovulatory size, 7 mm). Cystic follicles, defined as >12 mm, were maintained for a mean of 9 days. Follicular activity in the ovary contralateral to the cystic follicle tended to be suppressed while the cystic follicle was present. Ovarian response to copulation in females with cystic follicles varied according to the stage of the cystic follicle. Animals with ovulatory failure did not release adequate luteinizing hormone after copulation, even though they had mature and normal follicles (8 to 12 mm). The cystic follicle syndrome appears to be temporary, whereas the syndromes involving hypoplastic ovaries and ovulatory failure may permanently affect fertility.
Prophylactic efficacy of tilmicosin for bovine respiratory tract disease
Authors: Morck Douglas W. , Merrill John K. , Thorlakson Ben E. , Olson Merle E. , Tonkinson Lealon V. , Costerton J. William
Published: December 2023

The prophylactic administration of injectable tilmicosin for pneumonia in weaned beef calves was investigated in 1,806 animals. Comparisons were made among calves receiving an “on-arrival” injection of tilmicosin, calves receiving a single injection of long-acting oxytetracycline, and calves receiving no prophylaxis. Morbidity and mortality attributable to pneumonia, morbidity and mortality attributable to all causes, and case fatality were significantly lower in the group of calves that received tilmicosin, compared with calves that received long-acting oxytetracycline and calves that received no prophylactic antibiotic. Mean time to initial pneumonia treatment was significantly extended in calves that received prophylaxis, compared with those that received no antibiotic on arrival at the feedlot. Calves that received tilmicosin gained significantly more weight than calves that received oxy tetracycline. Calves that were not treated for pneumonia during the trial period gained significantly more weight than did those calves that were treated for pneumonia regardless of experimental group.

The majority of mortalities were attributable to fibrinous pneumonia (31/34). Important bacterial isolates (Pasteurella spp, Haemophilus somnus, Actinomyces pyogenes) obtained at necropsy did not have resistance to tilmicosin in association with administration of tilmicosin as prophylaxis for pneumonia. However, bacterial resistance to trimethoprim/sulfonamide and to oxytetracycline were commonly found in these postmortem isolates.
Lymphocytic/plasmacytic colitis in cats: 14 cases (1985-1990)
Authors: Dennis Jeffrey S. , Kruger John M. , Mullaney Thomas P.
Published: December 2023

Lymphocytic/plasmacytic colitis was diagnosed in 14 cats during a 5-year period. Purebred cats were affected significantly (P < 0.001) more often than were nonpurebred cats. Six cats were male and 8 were female. Mean age at onset of clinical signs was 5.1 years (range, 0.5 to 9 years). Hematochezia, observed in 13 cats, was the most commonly reported sign; diarrhea was reported in 11 cats. Mildly high serum alanine transaminase activity and hypokalemia were frequent biochemical abnormalities. Campylobacter sp was cultured from the feces of 1 cat. On endoscopic examination, petechia and hyperemia of the colonic mucosa were detected in 7 of 8 cats. Cats were initially treated with dietary management alone or with a combination of dietary and pharmacologic management. Clinical signs in 7 of 11 treated cats completely resolved, whereas signs in 3 cats were considered improved. One cat was euthanatized when an inadequate response to treatment was observed. Most cats were eventually maintained on dietary management alone.
Clinical manifestations of leukocyte adhesion deficiency in cattle: 14 cases (1977-1991)
Authors: Gilbert R. O. , Rebhun W. C. , Kim C. A. , Kehrli M. E. , Shuster D. E. , Ackermann M. R.
Published: December 2023

In Holstein cattle, an inherited disease has been recognized recently in which leukocytes lack surface glycoproteins termed β2 integrins, which are important in cell adhesion processes. This disease is the homologue of leukocyte adhesion deficiency in human beings and has been termed bovine leukocyte adhesion deficiency. The molecular basis of this disease is failure to produce normal CD18. The gene encoding bovine CD18 and its abnormal mutation have been sequenced, allowing specific diagnosis of the condition by DNA amplification by polymerase chain reaction followed by specific endonuclease digestion. This test was applied to formalin-fixed archival tissues from 18 cattle that had been admitted to the veterinary medical teaching hospital between 1975 and 1991 and that had had persistent and severe neutrophilia. Blood samples were collected from 2 additional cattle, and leukocytes from these samples also were tested. Fourteen cattle were confirmed to have been homozygous for the bovine leukocyte adhesion deficiency gene. Cattle with this condition had ranged in age from 2 weeks to 8 months at admission. They typically had had chronic bacterial infections that had failed to respond to or had recurred after conventional treatment. Consistent findings in these cattle included signs of bronchopneumonia, gingivitis, periodontitis, and peripheral lymphadenopathy. Severe neutrophilia, usually without a left shift, was a hallmark of the disease; consistent clinical biochemical findings included hypoalbuminemia, hyperglobulinemia, and hypoglycemia. This disease is important because it mimics common calfhood diseases such as pneumonia and diarrhea, but is ultimately consistently fatal before adulthood.
Adenomatous polyps of the duodenum in cats: 18 cases (1985-1990)
Authors: MacDonald Janet M. , Mullen Holly S. , Moroff Scott D.
Published: December 2023

Medical records were reviewed for 18 cats with adenomatous polyps of the proximal portion of the duodenum. Cats of Asian ancestry were over represented (8/18), and male castrated cats were common (15/18). The median age was 11.8 years. Common clinical signs were acute and chronic vomiting and hematemesis. Nine cats were anemic. Contrast radiography was performed in 12 cats, and a mass of the proximal portion of the duodenum was identified in 10 cats. Endoscopy was used to confirm existence of the mass in 3 cats. Complete excision of the duodenal mass was performed in 17 cats. One cat died before abdominal exploratory surgery, and a duodenal adenomatous polyp was identified at necropsy. Fifteen cats survived the immediate postoperative period, with 13 of 15 having complete resolution of clinical signs. Five cats had concurrent disease, which caused 4 of them to die between 3 and 26 months after surgery. Redevelopment of adenomatous polyps was not detected in any cat during the follow-up period of 1 to 49 months. Results of the study indicated that benign, adenomatous polyps of the duodenum in cats can be safely excised and that the prognosis for return to normal function is excellent.
Summer pasture-associated obstructive pulmonary disease in horses: 21 cases (1983-1991)
Authors: Seahorn Thomas L. , Beadle Ralph E.
Published: December 2023

Medical records of 21 horses with summer pasture-associated obstructive pulmonary disease were reviewed, and history, signalment, clinical signs, radiographic signs, clinicopathologic data, and therapeutic response were determined. Most affected horses were used as pleasure horses, and for the most part, remained at pasture when not in use. The mean age (± SD) was 13.7 ± 3.6 years. Clinical signs included intermittent nasal discharge, cough, tachypnea, labored expiratory effort, and crackles and wheezes on auscultation. Radiography frequently revealed interstitial patterns in the lung fields; in horses with chronic disease, pulmonary overinflation was evident. Hemogram was usually normal, and transtracheal wash fluid was characterized by nondegenerate neutrophils.
Costs of clinical mastitis and mastitis prevention in dairy herds
Authors: Miller Gay Y. , Bartlett Paul C. , Lance Susan E. , Anderson Judy , Heider Lawrence E.
Published: December 2023

A stratified random sample of 50 Ohio dairy herds, monitored for 1 year between March 1988 and May 1989, was used to estimate the component costs of clinical mastitis per cow-year overall and by organism, the component costs of an episode of clinical mastitis overall and by organism, and the incidence of clinical mastitis by organism. Each herd was visited monthly by a veterinarian who conducted on-farm interviews and completed standardized data-collection forms designed to elicit economic information about the on-farm costs of clinical mastitis and mastitis prevention. Producers collected milk samples prior to treatment of clinical mastitis cases. Culturing methods allowed identification of 18 specific mastitis pathogen classifications. Annual costs estimated were on a per cow-year and clinical episode basis. The monthly mean population of cows monitored was 4,068. Mastitis prevention cost $14.50/cow-year, whereas the cost incurred by producers because of clinical cases of mastitis was $37.91. Organisms prevalent in the cows’ environment caused the most costly types of mastitis. Disregarding contaminated samples and episodes for which no milk samples were taken, mastitis for which 2 organisms were isolated accounted for 35.5% of costs of clinical mastitis, followed by cases for which Escherichia coli (21.3%) was isolated, cases for which culturing yielded no growth (8.6%), and cases for which esculin-positive Streptococcus spp (6.4%), Klebsiella spp (5.7%), esculin-negative CAMP-negative Streptococcus spp (5.1%), Enterobacter spp (4.8%), coagulase-negative Staphylococcus spp (4.1%), coagulase-positive Staphylococcus spp (3.0%), S agalactiae (2.5%), and Bacillus spp (1.2%) were isolated. Other categories of classification each accounted for < 0.5% of costs. Mean cost per clinical episode was $107.11. Mean incidence of clinical mastitis was 38.74 cases/100 cowyears. Mixed infections had the highest incidence (mean, 4.80 cases/100 cow-years), followed by cases with no growth (2.96), E coli (2.10), esculin-positive Streptococcus spp (1.94), coagulase-negative Staphylococcus spp (1.60), esculin-negative CAMP-negative Streptococcus spp (1.25), coagulase-positive Staphylococcus spp (1.04), Enterobacter spp (0.36), and Klebsiella spp (0.27).
Megavoltage irradiation of neoplasms of the nasal and paranasal cavities in 77 dogs
Authors: Théon A. P. , Madewell B. R. , Harb M. F. , Dungworth D. L.
Published: December 2023

Seventy-seven dogs with malignant tumors of the nasal and paranasal cavities were treated by use of radiotherapy. The tumors included carcinomas (58) and sarcomas (19). Radiographic findings, including site of involvement and tumor extension, were the basis of clinical staging. Staging was performed according to the tumor, node, metastasis staging of the World Health Organization, and a modified staging scheme based on prognostic factors that seemed to correlate best with response to treatment. All irradiations were done with a telecobalt 60 unit. Fifty-six dogs were treated with irradiation alone, and 21 had partial tumor resection prior to radiotherapy. Treatment dose was 48 Gy (minimal tumor dose) administered on a Monday-Wednesday-Friday basis at 4 Gy/fraction over 4 weeks. The irradiation technique emphasized rostral field with a generous treatment volume. Duration of follow-up after irradiation ranged from 1 month to 61 months. The 1- and 2-year overall survival rates were 60.3% and 25%, respectively, and the 1- and 2-year relapse-free survival rates were 38.2% and 17.6%, respectively. Results of histologic examination and our modified staging scheme were significant (P = 0.02 and P = 0.04, respectively) prognostic factors of relapse-free survival. Conversely, tumor site, tumor extension, World Health Organization clinical stage, and cytoreductive surgery prior to irradiation did not affect the outcome of treatment. According to our modified staging scheme, dogs with stage-2 disease have a poorer prognosis than dogs with stage-1 disease, with a relative risk of relapse 2.3-fold higher. Dogs with carcinoma had a poorer prognosis than dogs with sarcoma (predominantly chondrosarcoma) with a relative risk of relapse 3.3-fold higher. Furthermore, dogs with chondrosarcomas fared significantly (P = 0.05) better than those with adenocarcinomas. Most acute radiation reactions were acceptable. Chronic ocular complications were seen in 45% (35/77) of the dogs.
Packed red blood cell transfusions in dogs: 131 cases (1989)
Authors: Kerl M. E. , Hohenhaus A. E.
Published: December 2023

One hundred and thirty-one dogs received 163 packed RBC transfusions in 1989, and records from these dogs were examined. Seventy percent had anemia from blood loss, 22% from hemolysis, and 8% from bone marrow hypoplasia. Forty-seven percent (62 dogs) survived hospitalization. Thirty-seven percent (49 dogs) required anesthesia for a surgical procedure. Thirteen percent (17 dogs) had acute or delayed transfusion reactions, but all of these dogs survived hospitalization. There was no age, breed, or sex predilection. Criteria used to determine transfusion need included anemia (measured by pcv); history of acute blood loss; need for anesthesia; and evidence of weakness, tachypnea, or tachycardia. Twenty-four percent (32 dogs) scored < 5 on the transfusion-need assessment scale. These dogs may have had falsely low scores because of rapid blood loss from surgery or trauma without reflection in the pcv.
Investigation of an epizootic of bovine viral diarrhea virus infection in calves
Authors: Holland Robert E. , Bezek David J. , Sprecher David J. , Patterson Jon S. , Steficek Barbara A. , Trapp Allan L.
Published: December 2023

Eight of 19 calves born to bovine viral diarrhea virus (bvdv)-negative and -immunocompetent dams were determined to be infected with a noncytopathic strain of bvdv. Six of the 8 calves had diarrhea and 2 had no clinical signs of disease. In 3 euthanatized calves, lesions consistent with mucosal disease were found throughout the gastrointestinal tract, and the virus was isolated from the spleen, lymph nodes, and small intestine. In 5 calves, bvdv was isolated from mononuclear cells in blood samples obtained 21 days apart, indicating persistent infection. The virus was not isolated from sera obtained from 2 calves, with chronic nonclinical infections, that had neutralizing antibody titers ≥ 1:512 against bovine viral diarrhea-Singer virus and titers ≥ 1:256 against the persistent bvdv. Twenty-one days after vaccination with a vaccine that contained inactivated noncytopathic and cytopathic biotypes of bvdv, 4 of 5 persistently infected calves had neutralizing antibody titers ≤ 1:4 against the bovine viral diarrhea-Singer virus and their persistent virus. Prior to vaccination, 2 of 11 virus-negative calves had neutralizing antibody titers ≤ 1:128 against the bovine viral diarrhea-Singer virus, and after vaccination, only 1 virus-negative calf had a titer ≤ 1:512. At 149 days after revaccination and prior to weaning, 4 virus-negative calves had neutralizing antibody titers ≤ 1:512 (range, 1:16 to 1:384). Under the specific conditions in this herd, we were not able to detect a beneficial effect of vaccination. Colostral origin bvdv-specific antibody, capable of neutralizing the persistently infective bvdv strain, most likely interfered with isolation of the virus from the sera of 2 persistently infected calves.
Surgical treatment of cervical stenotic myelopathy in horses: 73 cases (1983-1992)
Authors: Moore Bonnie Rush , Reed Stephen M. , Robertson James T.
Published: December 2023

Seventy-three horses with cervical stenotic myelopathy underwent cervical vertebral interbody fusion (n = 63) or dorsal laminectomy (n = 10). Neurologic function improved in 77% of horses, and 46% of horses achieved athletic function (racing, race training, or pleasure riding) after cervical vertebral interbody fusion for static and dynamic spinal cord compressive lesions. Neurologic status improved in 4 of 10 horses after dorsal decompression for static compressive spinal cord lesions. The duration of clinical signs prior to surgical intervention was shorter for horses that achieved athletic function or improved by at least 2 neurologic grades than for horses that did not improve in neurologic status or improved 1 neurologic grade after cervical vertebral interbody fusion. The number of cervical spinal cord compressive lesions and age of horses did not affect the long-term surgical outcome of cervical vertebral interbody fusion. Seroma formation, implant failure, right laryngeal hemiplegia, and colitis were nonfatal complications associated with cervical vertebral interbody fusion. Dorsal laminectomy and cervical vertebral interbody fusion of static compressive lesions of the caudal cervical vertebral column were associated with fatal postoperative complications, including vertebral body fracture, spinal cord edema, and implant failure.
Unilateral adrenalectomy as a treatment for adrenocortical tumors in ferrets: Five cases (1990-1992)
Authors: Lawrence Howard J. , Gould Willard J. , Flanders James A. , Rowland Peter H. , Yeager Amy E.
Published: December 2023

Adrenocortical tumors were diagnosed in 5 adult spayed ferrets. Four ferrets had bilaterally symmetrical alopecia of the caudal femoral region, abdomen, and tail, and 1 had alopecia of the distal limbs and feet. All 5 ferrets had vulvar swelling. During abdominal ultrasonography, irregular masses, believed to involve the adrenal glands, were seen in all 5 ferrets. Unilateral adrenalectomy was performed successfully in each ferret by use of ventral midline celiotomy. On histologic examination of biopsy samples, 4 ferrets were found to have adrenocortical adenomas, and 1 ferret was found to have an adrenocortical adenocarcinoma. All clinical signs resolved after adrenalectomy, suggesting that the adrenocortical tumors had been secreting adrenocortical hormones.
Transmission of brucellosis from reindeer to cattle
Authors: Forbes Lorry B. , Tessaro Stacy V.
Published: December 2023

Sixteen reindeer (Rangifer tarandus tarandus) naturally infected with Brucella suis biovar 4 were penned with 6 male and 2 female cattle for 30 days, then removed and euthanatized. During this period, 5 reindeer had fawns, and 2 reindeer aborted. Brucella suis biovar 4 was recovered from all adult reindeer at necropsy. Nine reindeer had B suis biovar 4 in uterus, udder, and/or milk. The cattle were euthanatized 2 months after the reindeer were removed. Clinical or pathologic signs of disease were not observed in the cattle. Brucella suis biovar 4 was isolated from 2 male and from both female cattle at necropsy. The female cattle had positive reactions on the buffered plate antigen test, brucellosis card test, tube agglutination test, complement fixation test, and indirect enzyme immunoassay for most of the experiment, but the males had inconsistent reactions on these tests. The indirect enzyme immunoassay was the only test to detect all cattle from which bacteria were cultured. This study revealed that caution is warranted before moving reindeer or caribou into areas of traditional agriculture.
Effect of management practices on the Streptococcus suis carrier rate in nursery swine
Authors: Dee S. A. , Carlson A. R. , Winkelman N. L. , Corey M. M.
Published: December 2023

Management practices on swine farms were analyzed to determine factor(s) associated with high prevalence of pigs that were carriers of Streptococcus suis. Samples were obtained for bacteriologic culture via direct swabbing of palatine tonsils of healthy nursery pigs on 35 farms throughout the United States. Overall, 36.7% of the pigs were determined to be carriers. Isolates of S suis were serotyped, and antimicrobial susceptibility tests were performed by use of Kirby-Bauer techniques. Streptococcus suis types 1 and 2 were most commonly isolated. All isolates were susceptible to enrofloxacin, 97% of the isolates were susceptible to ceftiofur, and 94% were susceptible to ampicillin. However, only 80% of the isolates were susceptible to penicillin, and only 18% were susceptible to tetracycline.

Environmental, managerial, nutritional, and health factors were measured on each farm. Excessive temperature fluctuation, high relative humidity, crowding, and an age spread of > 2 weeks between pigs in the same room were the 4 most commonly encountered problems on farms with higher-than-average percentages of carrier pigs. Continuous flow facilities were found on 50% of these farms, and various disease problems, vitamin E/selenium deficiency, inadequate vaccination programs (attributable to the presence of atypical serotypes), and penicillin-resistant strains were found on 6 to 28% of these farms. Overall, 83% (15/18) of farms with higher-than-average percentages of carrier pigs also had a history of clinical S suis disease.
Evaluation of a one-step surgical preparation technique in dogs
Authors: Rochat Mark C. , Mann F. A. , Berg John N.
Published: December 2023

The efficacy of a 1-step surgical preparation technique for skin of dogs prior to elective ovariohysterectomy was evaluated. Dogs randomly assigned to group 1 (n = 30) had their skin prepared for surgery by use of a 2-step method, whereas the skin of dogs in group 2 (n = 30) was prepared for surgery by use of a commercially available product for a 1-step technique. Culture plates for quantitative bacterial counts were applied to the proposed incision site on dogs under general anesthesia after hair at the site was clipped and vacuumed but before antiseptic was applied. A second quantitative bacterial culture plate was applied to the proposed incision site after completion of the surgical preparation technique. Surgeries were routinely completed, and dogs were evaluated by physical examination the next day and at the time of suture removal (7 to 10 days after surgery) for complications. Postoperative complications were minor and consisted primarily of subcutaneous swelling, which resolved with time. All cultures obtained prior to skin preparation included bacteria or yeast. Sixteen cultures obtained after skin preparation (group 1, n = 11; group 2, n = 5) included bacteria or yeast. The total number of colonies of potential pathogens (Staphylococcus sp and Enterobacteriaceae) on the prepreparation cultures was 9,339; 4 colonies were counted on the postpreparation cultures. Potential bacterial pathogens, ie Streptococcus intermedius and gram-negative bacteria, were isolated from dogs prepared with the 2-step technique. None of the dogs that developed postoperative complications had growth on postpreparation culture plates.

There was no significant difference in the percent reduction of microbial numbers after skin preparation for either group. There was a significant (P < 0.05) difference between the pre- and postpreparation microbial numbers for both preparation techniques.

The 1-step technique was a simple, effective, and efficient method of skin preparation in dogs undergoing elective ovariohysterectomy.
Transoral axial division, under endoscopic guidance, for correction of epiglottic entrapment in horses
Authors: Ross M.W. , Gentile D.G. , Evans L.E.
Published: December 2023

Transoral axial division was performed, using endoscopic guidance, in 20 horses with epiglottic entrapment. Mean age of affected horses was 3 years (range, 2 to 5years), and there were 18 Standardbreds and 2 Thoroughbreds. Standardbreds and female horses were significantly overrepresented when compared with a reference population. Upper respiratory noise prompted endoscopic examination before surgery in 16 horses, but noise was not heard in 4 horses. Ten horses had entrapment by thin tissue without ulceration, 6 horses had entrapment by thin tissue with small, partial-thickness ulceration, 3 horses had entrapment by moderately thick tissue with large, partial-thickness ulceration, and 1 horse had entrapment with thick tissue and severe ulceration.

After surgery, horses received anti-inflammatory medication and box stall rest with hand walking for 7 days. All horses returned to race training on day 7 after surgery and returned to their previous level of racing or training. Epiglottic entrapment recurred in 2 horses (10%), and dorsal displacement of the palate developed in 2 horses after surgery. Relationship of epiglottic entrapment and dorsal displacement of the palate to epiglottic hypoplasia was not apparent.

Transoral axial division under endoscopic guidance appeared to be a useful, safe, and economic alternative to currently available methods for management of epiglottic entrapment in horses. Horses with entrapment by thick and ulcerated tissue may be best managed by surgical resection of entrapping tissue.
Extensor tendon lacerations in horses:50 cases (1982-1988)
Authors: Belknap James K. , Baxter Gary M. , Nickels Frank A.
Published: December 2023

Medical records of 50 horses with extensor tendon lacerations affecting 53 limbs over 7 years (1982 to 1988) were reviewed to determine the clinical features and prognosis for athletic soundness after treatment. Mean and median ages were 4.8 and 3 years, respectively. Eighty-nine percent of the injuries involved the hind limbs, with approximately equal distribution between the right and left limbs. Hind limb lacerations involved the long digital extensor tendon (28 limbs), lateral digital extensor tendon (3 limbs), or both tendons (16 limbs). Forelimb lacerations involved the common digital extensor tendon (2 limbs), lateral digital extensor tendon (1 limb), or both tendons (3 limbs). Joint involvement was found in 6 cases. Wound management varied according to wound characteristics, financial constraints of owners, and clinician preference. External coaptation consisted of a 3-layered cotton bandage in 33 limbs, splint and cotton bandage in 12 limbs, fiberglass or plaster-of-Paris cast in 5 limbs, and no form of coaptation in 3 limbs.

Follow-up information for 40 cases at least 1 year after injury revealed that 29 (73%) horses had returned to athletic soundness, 7 (18%) horses were pasture sound, 3 horses were chronically lame, and 1 horse was euthanatized during treatment because of wound sepsis. Depending on the hind limb tendons involved, return to athletic soundness ranged from 62% (long digital and lateral digital extensor tendons lacerated) to 80% (long digital extensor tendon lacerated) The small number of forelimb lacerations precluded any comparative data. Five of 6 horses with joint involvement returned to athletic soundness. Complications during treatment included wound sepsis/cellulitis, bone sequestra/osteitis of the third metatarsus, and exuberant granulation tissue.
Uveal cysts in dogs: 28 cases (1989–1991)
Authors: Corcoran Kelley A. , Koch Seth A.
Published: December 2023

In a 3-year retrospective study, 28 dogs were determined to have uveal cysts arising from either the ciliary body or the iris or free-floating in the anterior chamber. Golden Retrievers, Labrador Retrievers, and Boston Terriers were represented more than other breeds. Mean age of cyst development was 7.0 years in Golden Retrievers, 9.1 years in Labrador Retrievers, and 6.8 years in Boston Terriers. There was no sex predilection in any breed. Evidence of associated ocular lesions, other than visual impairment in 1 Boston Terrier, was not noticed.
Risk factors associated with acute pancreatitis in dogs: 101 cases (1985–1990)
Authors: Cook Audrey K. , Breitschwerdt Edward B. , Levine Jay F. , Bunch Susan E. , Linn Lorraine O.
Published: December 2023

The medical records of 101 dogs with acute pancreatitis, diagnosed on the basis of medical histories of acute vomiting, with serum lipase or amylase activity greater than the reference range, or with gross signs of pancreatitis at surgery or histopathologic evidence at necropsy, were evaluated to identify potential risk factors for the development of acute pancreatitis.

Age, sex, and breed of dogs with acute pancreatitis were compared with those from a reference population of 100 dogs admitted for other medical emergencies during the same period. Analysis of multiple regression models indicated that dogs > 7 years old were at increased risk for acute pancreatitis. Spayed dogs and castrated male dogs had an increased risk, compared with that of sexually intact males. Similarly, terrier and nonsporting breeds appeared to be at higher risk of developing acute pancreatitis than were other breed types.

Most dogs in this study (63/101) had intercurrent diseases, including diabetes mellitus (n = 14), hyperadrenocorticism (n = 12), chronic renal failure (n = 8), neoplasia (n = 17), congestive heart failure (n = 6), and autoimmune disorders (n = 5). Fourteen dogs had undergone anesthesia or surgery in the week before admission; only 3 had undergone abdominal procedures.

Recent medication use was listed in 52 of 101 cases. Antibiotics (n = 18) and corticosteroids (n = 18) were most frequently described. Anticancer chemotherapeutic agents (n = 5) and organophosphate insecticides (n = 5) also were listed.

We conclude that increasing age and particular breed types are risk factors for pancreatitis in dogs, and that spayed females and castrated males are at increased risk, compared with that for sexually intact male dogs. Intercurrent diseases, drug treatment, anesthesia, and surgery are potential risk factors that require additional verification.
Enterprise analysis: A method to evaluate alternative production and management practices for cow/calf operations
Authors: Toombs R. E. , Wikse S. E. , Salman M. D. , Klinefelter D. A.
Published: December 2023

Food animal veterinarians recognize the need to economically justify their recommendations regarding whole-herd management programs. An enterprise analysis technique may be used by veterinarians to determine the actual cost of production on beef cattle operations. Enterprise analysis was used on 2 groups of cattle to demonstrate the financial impact of a recommendation to modify the winter-supplementation program of a large ranch. Pregnancy rates improved from 62 to 95% for group-1 cattle and from 75 to 94% for 2 groups of cattle in the 2-year study. Additionally, the calving cycle was shortened and the number of calves born earlier in the calving season was notably increased, which raised the total pounds of calves sold at weaning. These outcomes were realized without additional winter-supplementation expenses for either group. Veterinarians can use enterprise analysis to determine the value of their recommendations, thus allowing them to charge more appropriately for the services provided.
Clinical and laboratory findings in chronic conjunctivitis in cats: 91 cases (1983–1991)
Authors: Nasisse Mark P. , Guy James S. , Stevens Jerry B. , English Robert V. , Davidson Michael G.
Published: December 2023

Clinical findings and laboratory test results from 91 cats with chronic conjunctivitis were studied to determine the causes of the disease and the sensitivity of diagnostic procedures used, and to identify correlations between results of various diagnostic procedures and clinical or signalment variations. Mean age of affected cats was 2.9 ± 2.7 years (± sd), with a range from 1 month to 11 years. Conjunctivitis was more likely to be bilateral (56 cats) than unilateral (35 cats). In cats tested for FeLV or feline immunodeficiency virus infection, 15 and 8.5%, respectively, of the results were positive, compared with 4 and 2.6% for the general hospital population. Culturing or immunofluorescent assay (ifa) for feline herpesvirus 1 (fhv-1) and Chlamydia psittaci ifa resulted identification of pathogens (positive test results) in 19% (fhv-1) and 18% (C psittaci) of tested cats. For fhv-1, culturing was more sensitive than was ifa, yielding positive results in 19 vs 8.8% of cases. In only 1 cat were fhv-1 and chlamydiae recovered. The probability of positive test results for fhv-1 or chlamydiae was unrelated to concurrent corneal disease, unilateral vs bilateral involvement, or age. Cause of conjunctivitis could not be definitively determined in the remaining 35 cases tested for both agents. Bacterial species considered to be potentially pathogenic were isolated from conjunctival sac specimens in only 1 of 38 attempts. Cytologic changes considered compatible with chlamydial or fhv-1 infection (intracytoplasmic inclusions or multinucleated epithelial cells, respectively) were found in 8 and 5 cases, respectively. In only 4 of these cases, however, was the cytologic impression supported by a concurrently positive result on antigen-detection testing. This study revealed that routinely used diagnostic procedures were not able to confirm an etiologic diagnosis in most cats with chronic conjunctivitis.
A survey of the use of live animals, cadavers, inanimate models, and computers in teaching veterinary surgery
Authors: Bauer Michael Stephen
Published: December 2023

A questionnaire, designed to gather information regarding the use of live animals, cadavers, inanimate models, and other innovative methods to teach veterinary surgery, was mailed to individuals in the surgery sections of all 31 veterinary schools in the United States and Canada. Of the 31 questionnaires mailed, 27 (87%) were completed and returned. Mean number of total, general, small-animal, and large-animal surgery laboratory sessions were 22, 5.9, 11, and 7.4, respectively. At 7 of 26 (27%) schools, animals were euthanatized prior to recovery from anesthesia in all teaching laboratories; in 18 schools (69%), small animals were euthanatized prior to recovery from anesthesia. In 4 (20%) of the 20 schools that offer large-animal laboratory courses, large animals were euthanatized prior to recovery from anesthesia. In 24 schools (88%), cadavers, models, or both were used in at least 1 laboratory session in their surgery training program. Models were used most frequently to teach suturing, knot tying, and hemostasis. Plastic bones were used in 8 (30%) schools to teach fracture repair. In several schools, models were used to teach other general psychomotor skills, and at several schools, models were available for sale to other teaching institutions. At 16 (59%) of the 27 veterinary schools, some type of program has been developed with local humane societies. At 13 (81%) of the 16 schools with such a program, small animals were euthanatized prior to recovery from anesthesia in their traditional laboratories.

At 10 (37%) of the schools, some process was used to evaluate students in the laboratory, and at 5 (19%), course evaluations were completed by students taking the laboratory. In only 4 (15%) of the schools were the effect of various laboratory teaching methods on learning outcomes evaluated.
Neonatal septicemia in calves: 25 cases (1985–1990)
Authors: Aldridge Brian M. , Garry Franklyn B. , Adams Ragan
Published: December 2023

Historical, physical, and clinicopathologic findings in 25 septicemic calves were examined to further characterize the clinical features of naturally induced bovine neonatal septicemia. Owners often reported single organ disease, but physical examination revealed multiple organ disease in more than half the calves. A third of the calves were admitted as representative of a herd problem. Laboratory findings were variable, but commonly included changes in the differential WBC count and plasma fibrinogen concentration. Low serum immunoglobulin concentrations were found in approximately half the calves.

Escherichia coli was the most frequently isolated organism, but gram-positive infections were found in 10%, and polymicrobial infections in 28%, of the calves. Previous antimicrobial administration did not appear to affect culture yield. At necropsy, lesions were seen in multiple organs in most calves. The respiratory and gastrointestinal systems were most commonly affected. Few of the calves had umbilical infections. The survival rate was poor (< 12%).
Interaction of Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae and Pasteurella multocida infections in swine
Authors: Amass Sandra Faye , Clark L. Kirk , Van Alstine William G. , Bowersock Terry L. , Murphy Duane A. , Knox Kay E. , Albregts Sharon R.
Published: December 2023

To investigate the interaction between Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae and Pasteurella multocida infection, 32 pigs were randomly assigned by litter, sex, and weight to 4 treatment groups. Group-1 pigs were inoculated with M hyopneumoniae and allowed to recover from M hyopneumoniae infection. Group-2 pigs were vaccinated against M hyopneumoniae and then inoculated with M hyopneumoniae. Group-3 pigs were inoculated with M hyopneumoniae and developed clinical signs of mycoplasmosis. Group-4 pigs had never been exposed to M hyopneumoniae. All pigs were initially seronegative for M hyopneumoniae. All pigs were subsequently inoculated with P multocida and euthanatized 2 weeks later. Pasteurella multocida was isolated only from the lungs of group-3 pigs, and these pigs had a significantly higher median percentage of lung surface area affected by pneumonia than did pigs in the other groups. For group-3 pigs, percentage of lung surface area affected by pneumonia was positively correlated with the number of P multocida colonies isolated. We concluded that P multocida is not a primary respiratory pathogen in pigs, but that M hyopneumoniae infection can render the lungs susceptible to P multocida colonization and infection. Pigs recovered from or vaccinated against infection with M hyopneumoniae were resistant to P multocida infection.
Complying with the Hazard Communication Standard
Authors: Seibert Philip J.
Published: December 2023

This is the third article in a series prepared for us by Mr. Seibert. For previous articles, please see the Jan 15,1994 and the Feb 1,1994 issues of the JAVMA.—Kurt J. Matushek, Assistant Editor.
Right hepatic lobe atrophy in horses: 17 cases (1983-1993)
Authors: Jakowski Richard M.
Published: December 2023

The case records of 17 horses with atrophy of the right hepatic lobe were reviewed. Fifteen horses had signs of colic. Two horses had clinical problems that were unassociated with gastrointestinal tract disease. Ages ranged from 5 to 30 years (mean, 12.6 years) and there was no breed or sex predisposition.

In clinically normal horses, the right hepatic lobe constitutes half of the total liver weight. The right hepatic lobe in the 17 horses in this study ranged from 11.0 to 38.3% of the total liver weight (mean, 27.8%). Findings on histologic examination of hepatic tissue from horses in the study were variable. Most had loss of hepatocytes, with condensation of hepatic stroma and thick wrinkled hepatic capsules.

Additional findings in the horses included torsion of the large colon (15), ileus without gastric rupture (3), typhlocolitis (2), colon infarction secondary to mesenteric strangulation (1), colon infarction secondary to sepsis (1), strangulation of the small intestine from pendulous lipoma (1), and nephrosplenic entrapment (1).

No morphologic evidence of angiopathic disease involving the arterial or venous blood supply to the right hepatic lobe was found. Additionally, there was no evidence of biliary tract disease in this portion of the liver. Right hepatic lobe atrophy is believed to result from long-term, insidious, compression of this portion of the liver from abnormal distention of the right dorsal colon and base of the cecum. The practice of feeding horses high-concentrate, low-fiber diets may contribute to atony of the right dorsal colon, with resultant distention that compresses the right hepatic lobe against the rigid, visceral surface of the diaphragm.
Analysis of risk factors for gastric dilatation and dilatation-volvulus in dogs
Authors: Glickman Lawrence T. , Glickman Nita W. , Pérez Cynthia M. , Schellenberg Diana B. , Lantz Gary C.
Published: December 2023

The Veterinary Medical Data Base was used to conduct an epidemiologic study of gastric dilatation and dilatation-volvulus (gdv) to describe changes over time in frequency of canine hospital admissions, to identify risk factors, and to estimate their relative importance. Cases in this case-control study included 1,934 dogs with gdv that were admitted to 12 participating veterinary hospitals from 1980 to 1989. The controls were 3,868 dogs with other diagnoses that were randomly selected from the same hospitals. Frequency of gdv per 1,000 canine hospital admissions ranged from 2.9 to 6.8. The case fatality rate was 28.6 and 33.3% for gastric dilatation alone and for gastric dilatation with volvulus, respectively. Using logistic regression analysis, the odds ratio (or) and its 95% confidence limits (95% cl) for gdv associated with purebred vs mixed-breed dogs were 2.5 and 2.1, 3.0, respectively. The risk of gdv was associated with increasing age (Χ2 = 305.6, P < 0.0001) and increasing weight (Χ2 = 627.8, P < 0.0001). Significant association of gdv risk with sex or neuter status was not found. The 5 breeds having at least 10 cases and 8 controls and with the highest risk of gdv were Great Dane (or, 10.0; 95% cl, 6.4, 15.6), Weimaraner (or, 4.6; 95% cl, 2.3, 9.2), Saint Bernard (or, 4.2; 95% cl, 2.3, 7.4), Gordon Setter (or, 4.1; 95% cl, 1.8, 9.3), and Irish Setter (or, 3.5; 95% cl, 2.4, 5.0). The effect of increasing body weight on gdv risk was less than that of increasing ideal adult breed weight, determined by published breed standards. There was considerable heterogeneity of gdv risk for individual breeds within ideal adult breed-weight groups. The overall pattern of risk was suggestive that, in addition to age, body weight, and neuter status, a dog's body (thoracic) conformation also was an important determinant of susceptibility to gdv.
Use of transcolonic portal scintigraphy to monitor blood flow and progressive postoperative attenuation of partially ligated single extrahepatic portosystemic shunts in dogs
Authors: Van Vechten Brian J. , Komtebedde Jan , Koblik Philip D.
Published: December 2023

Transcolonic portal scintigraphy was used to evaluate immediate and long-term changes in shunt blood flow after partial ligation of single extrahepatic portosystemic shunts in 8 dogs. Scintigraphy was performed before surgery, within the first 7 days after surgery, and 3 to 9 months after surgery. Shunt fraction values for this group of dogs before surgery ranged from 67 to 87% (normal reference range, ≤ 15%). On the basis of postoperative scintigraphy, 4 dogs had immediate and lasting occlusion of shunt blood flow (shunt fraction, ≤ 15%). One dog had a shunt fraction value within the reference range immediately after surgery, had evidence of recurrent shunt blood flow (shunt fraction, 23%) at 3 months after surgery, and again had a shunt fraction value within the reference range 9 months after surgery. Persistent, though reduced, shunt blood flow (shunt fractions, 23 and 2 7%) was evident immediately after surgery in 2 dogs. One of these dogs had a shunt fraction within the reference range 3 months after surgery, whereas shunt blood flow in the other dog had increased to 41%. One dog had no appreciable change in shunt blood flow immediately after surgery (shunt fraction, 70%), but the shunt fraction value had decreased to 41% at the time of the final scintigraphic examination.

As assessed by transcolonic portal scintigraphy, partial single extrahepatic portosystemic ligation caused a significant decrease in mean shunt blood flow in this group of 8 dogs and resulted in eventual shunt occlusion in a majority of the dogs (6 of 8 dogs). Partial ligation with progressive attenuation of shunt blood flow may obviate the need to perform additional surgery.
Surface oximetry for intraoperative assessment of colonic viability in horses
Authors: Snyder Jack R. , Pascoe John R. , Meagher Dennis M. , Thurmond Mark C.
Published: December 2023

Surface oximetry was used to evaluate viability of the ascending colon in 60 horses with naturally occurring colonic volvulus or displacement. Tissue surface oxygen tension (Pso2) was measured on the serosal surface of the pelvic flexure after anatomic correction of the colonic obstruction. Horses with Pso2 > 20 mm of Hg were predicted to have viable colon; whereas, horses with Pso2 ≤ 20 mm of Hg were predicted to have nonviable colon. Results of surface oximetry were compared with final outcome. For surface oximetry, sensitivity (ability to accurately identify colon that was nonviable) was 53%, but specificity (ability to accurately identify bowel that was viable) was 100%. Negative predictive value (probability that a horse with Pso2 > 20 mm of Hg truly had viable bowel) was 87%, and positive predictive value (probability that a horse with Pso2 ≤ 20 mm of Hg truly had nonviable bowel) was 100%. The overall accuracy was 88%. Of the 45 horses that had a colonic Pso2 > 20 mm of Hg and survived, 7 had been given, on the basis of subjective assessment of visual criteria, a good prognosis, 28 had been given a guarded prognosis, and 10 had been given a poor prognosis. Of the horses that had a colonic Pso2 > 20 mm of Hg but died after surgery because of further colonic infarction, confirmed at necropsy, 4 had been given a poor prognosis, and 3 had been given a guarded prognosis. Of the 8 horses that had a colonic Pso2 ≤ 20 mm of Hg and died after surgery, 7 had been given a poor prognosis, and 1 had been given a guarded prognosis. We concluded that surface oximetry, a relatively noninvasive technique, provided a better prediction of survival in horses with colonic volvulus or displacement than did visual inspection alone.