bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Left Basilar Systolic Murmur in Retired Racing Greyhounds
Authors: Fabrizio F. , Baumwart R. , Iazbik M.C. , Meurs K.M. , Couto C.G.
Published: March 2010

Nineteen of 28 (67%) Greyhounds enrolled in the Blood Donor Program at The Veterinary Teaching Hospital, The Ohio State University (Columbus, OH), had a left basilar systolic murmur. Ten Greyhounds with murmurs and 9 without murmurs were evaluated to gain knowledge about the pathogenesis of this murmur. Echocardiograms were performed without sedation by means of a GE Vivid 7 Echocardiographic System with a continuous ECG; systolic arterial blood pressure (SABP) was measured with an Ultrasonic Doppler Flow detector model 811‐B. The mean peak aortic velocity in the Greyhounds with murmurs (2.15 m/s; range, 1.8‐2.2 m/s) was significantly higher than in the Greyhounds without murmurs (1.89 m/s; range, 1.6‐2.0 m/s) (P < .001); there were no significant differences between groups for aortic valve or annulus diameter, fractional shortening, pulmonic velocity, SABP, hematocrit, serum protein concentration, or red blood cell counts. In this study, Greyhounds with soft, left basilar systolic murmurs had mildly (but significantly) higher mean peak aortic velocities than similar dogs without murmurs. In the dogs with murmurs (and higher velocities), we could not identify structural abnormalities, such as valvular lesions or other congenital defects. There was no inverse correlation between the systolic murmur and the higher hematocrit and red blood cell counts observed in this breed. This 1–2/6 basilar systolic murmur is common in Greyhounds, and it does not appear to be of any clinical consequence.
Immediate and Late Outcomes of Transarterial Coil Occlusion of Patent Ductus Arteriosus in Dogs
Authors: Campbell F.E. , Thomas W.P. , Miller S.J. , Berger D. , Kittleson M.D.
Published: March 2010

Records from dogs (n = 125) that underwent attempted transarterial coil occlusion of patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) at the University of California, Davis, between 1998 and 2003, were reviewed, and a subset of these dogs (n = 31) in which the procedure was performed at least 12 months earlier were reexamined to determine long‐term outcome. Coil implantation was achieved in 108 dogs (86%). Despite immediate complete ductal closure in only 34% of dogs, the procedure was hemodynamically successful as evidenced by a reduction in indexed left ventricular internal diameter in diastole (LVIDd; P < .0001), fractional shortening (P < .0001), and left atrial to aortic ratio (LA: Ao; P = .022) within 24 hours. Complete ductal closure was documented in 61% of dogs examined 12 to 63 months after coil occlusion. Long‐standing residual ductal flow in the other 39% of dogs was not associated with increased indexed LVIDd or LA: Ao and was not hemodynamically relevant. Repeat intervention was deemed advisable in only 4 dogs with persistent (n = 1) or recurrent (n = 3) ductal flow. Complications included aberrant embolization (n = 27), death (n = 3), ductal reopening (n = 3), transient hemoglobinuria (n = 2), hemorrhage (n = 1), aberrant coil placement (n = 1), pulmonary hypertension (n = 1), and skin abscessation (n = 1). Serious infectious complications did not occur despite antibiotic administration to only 40% of these dogs. Transarterial coil occlusion was not possible in 14 dogs (11%) because of coil instability in the PDA and was associated with increased indexed minimum ductal diameter (P= .03), LVIDd (P= .0002), LVIDs (P= 0.001), and congestive left heart failure (P= .03) reflecting a relatively large shunt volume.
Two‐Dimensional Echocardiographic Assessment of the Feline Left Atrium
Authors: Abbott Jonathan A. , MacLean Heidi N.
Published: March 2010

Atrial size determined by echocardiography provides a surrogate measure of the hemodynamic burden of cardiac disease. Linear atrial dimensions often are indexed to aortic diameter. Whereas quantitative variables obtained from healthy cats, using 2‐dimensional echocardiography (2DE), have been reported, indices from 2DE, have not. Using 2DE and M‐mode echocardiography, we calculated indices of left atrial size and a single index of atrial function, left atrial fractional shortening, in 17 healthy cats. Specifically, left atrial dimensions from short‐ and long‐axis 2DE planes were indexed to aortic diameter and also to end‐diastolic left ventricular dimension. Additionally, left atrial circumference and area were indexed to aortic circumference and area, respectively. The same variables were obtained from 20 cats with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM), so that agreement between 2DE indices and indices from M‐mode echocardiography could be evaluated over a clinically relevant range of atrial sizes. Atrial dimensions and indices of atrial size from cats with HCM exceeded those of healthy cats. Left atrial dimension from 2D short‐axis images indexed to aortic diameter generally was less than the analogous index obtained from M‐mode (mean bias, [95% limits of agreement] ‐0.13, [‐0.42, 0.17]). Left atrial dimension from 2D long‐axis images indexed to aortic diameter generally was greater than the index obtained from M‐mode (0.15, [‐0.28, 0.58]). We conclude that ratios of left atrial size and aortic diameter, from 2DE and M‐mode echocardiography, are not interchangeable. Normative data that may serve as reference intervals for 2DE assessment of atrial size are presented.
Epilepsy in Irish Wolfhounds
Authors: Casal Margret L. , Munuve Richard M. , Janis M. Anne , Werner Petra , Henthorn Paula S.
Published: March 2010

During the last 15 years, breeders have reported an increase in the proportion of Irish Wolfhounds with seizure disorders. Clinical data and pedigrees from closely related Irish Wolfhounds were collected retrospectively and analyzed. Idiopathic epilepsy was diagnosed, by exclusion of other causes for seizures, in 146 (18.3%) of 796 Irish Wolfhounds from 115 litters. The first seizure occurred by the age of 3 years in 73% of all dogs. Males were more commonly affected than females (61.6% versus 38.4%), with males having a later average age of seizure onset. The life expectancy of affected dogs was decreased by 2 years when compared with the average Irish Wolfhound population. The heritability index for the affected dogs, their littermates, and unaffected parents was 0.87. No simple mode of inheritance explains the pattern of affected dogs in pedigrees. Hallmarks of dominant and sex‐linked inheritance were notably absent, and the segregation ratio was less than would be expected for simple autosomal recessive inheritance. Assuming all affected dogs have the same form of epilepsy, the simplest description of the complex pattern of inheritance observed is autosomal recessive, with incomplete penetrance and male dogs at increased risk.
Endostatin and Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Concentrations in Healthy Dogs, Dogs with Selected Neoplasia, and Dogs with Nonneoplastic Diseases
Authors: Troy G.C. , Huckle W.R. , Rossmeisl J.H. , Panciera D. , Lanz O. , Robertson J.L. , Ward D.L.
Published: March 2010

To evaluate the relationship between endostatin and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in cancers of dogs, circulating concentrations of these 2 tumor‐associated markers were measured prospectively in healthy dogs (n = 44), dogs with tumors (n = 54), and dogs with nonneoplastic diseases (n = 42 for endostatin; n = 16 for VEGF). A canine‐directed enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay kit was used for determination of endostatin, and a human‐directed kit was validated for detection of canine VEGF. Concentrations of endostatin for all dogs were 28–408 ng/mL. Increasing serum endostatin concentration was associated with increasing age (P= .0396). Concentrations of endostatin were not different among groups of dogs (P= .1989) when adjusted for age. Mean endostatin concentrations for all dogs were higher in dogs (P= .0124) with detectable VEGF concentrations. Endostatin concentrations, when corrected for age, were related to decreasing PCV (P= .032) but not white blood cell count (P= .225) or platelet count (P= .1990). Measurable VEGF (≥2.5 pg/mL) was detected in 3 (7.0%) of 43 healthy dogs. Dogs with tumors had detectable VEGF in 24 (44%) of 54 dogs, with concentrations ranging from 2.5–274 pg/mL; only 1 dog with a nonneoplastic disease process had detectable VEGF. VEGF concentrations for all dogs after correcting for age, endostatin, and disease categories were associated with increased white blood cell count (P= .0032) and platelet counts (P= .0064) and decreased PCV (P= .0017). Linkage between increased endostatin and VEGF concentrations suggests that similar factors may influence concentrations of these markers. Further evaluation of endostatin and VEGF associations in dogs with tumors may provide information on the extent and progression of the disease.
Primary Immune‐Mediated Hemolytic Anemia in 19 Cats: Diagnosis, Therapy, and Outcome (1998–2004)
Authors: Kohn Barbara , Weingart Christiane , Eckmann Vera , Ottenjann Mareike , Leibold Wolfgang
Published: March 2010

Immune‐mediated hemolytic anemia (IMHA) occurs less frequently in cats than in dogs. The value of the Coombs' test (CT) has been questioned, but detailed surveys of its use are lacking. The objective of this study was to describe 19 cats with primary IMHA (pIMHA) and to examine the diagnostic value of the direct CT. The CT was performed in 92 cats; it was negative in 5 healthy, in 9 sick nonanemic, and in 55 cats with different types of anemia. The CT was positive in 18 anemic cats (2 feline leukemia virus (FeLV) positive, 1 with cholangiohepatitis, 15 with no underlying disease). Moreover, agglutination persisted after saline washing in 5 anemic cats (1 lymphoma, 4 pIMHA).

Inclusion criteria for pIMHA were a positive CT (15) or persistent agglutination (4), and the exclusion of other diseases. The age of the 19 cats ranged from 0.5 to 9 years (median, 2 years); male cats were overrepresented. The PCV on admission was 6–22% (median, 12%). The anemia was nonregenerative in 11 cats. Additional abnormal laboratory results were leukocytosis (2), lymphocytosis (6), hyperbilirubinemia (13), hyperglobulimemia (10), and increased liver enzyme activities (10). Initial treatment consisted of blood transfusions (10), crystalloids (11), prednisolone (19), antibiotics (19), and H2‐blockers (11). Four of 17 cats were euthanized 9, 63, 240 and 2,160 days after initial presentation (mortality rate, 23.5%). Relapses were reported in 5 of 16 cases (31%). Thus, pIMHA appears to occur more frequently than recognized previously, with a more favorable prognosis in cats than in dogs. The CT was useful in identifying immune‐mediated pathogenesis.
Methicillin‐ResistantStaphylococcus aureusin Horses at a Veterinary Teaching Hospital: Frequency, Characterization, and Association with Clinical Disease
Authors: Weese J.S. , Rousseau J. , Willey B.M. , Archambault M. , McGeer A. , Low D.E.
Published: March 2010

Methicillin‐resistantStaphylococcus aureus(MRSA) is an emerging equine pathogen. To attempt to control nosocomial and zoonotic transmission, an MRSA screening program was established for all horses admitted to the Ontario Veterinary College Veterinary Teaching Hospital, whereby nasal screening swabs were collected at admission, weekly during hospitalization, and at discharge. MRSA was isolated from 120 (5.3%) of 2,283 horses: 61 (50.8%) at the time of admission, 53 (44.2%) during hospitalization, and 6 from which the origin was unclear because an admission swab had not been collected. Clinical infections attributable to MRSA were present or developed in 14 (11.7%) of 120 horses. The overall rate of community‐associated colonization was 27 per 1,000 admissions. Horses colonized at admission were more likely to develop clinical MRSA infection than those not colonized at admission (OR 38.9, 95% CI 9.49–160,P< 0.0001). The overall nosocomial MRSA colonization incidence rate was 23 per 1,000 admissions. The incidence rate of nosocomial MRSA infection was at the rate of 1.8 per 1,000 admissions, with an incidence density of 0.88 per 1,000 patient days. Administration of ceftiofur or aminoglycosides during hospitalization was the only risk factor associated with nosocomial MRSA colonization. MRSA screening of horses admitted to a veterinary hospital was useful for identification of community‐associated and nosocomial colonization and infection, and for monitoring of infection control practices.
Detection and Clinical Evolution of Scrapie in Sheep by 3rd Eyelid Biopsy
Authors: Vargas Francisco , Luján Lluís , Bolea Rosa , Monleón Eva , Martín‐Burriel Inmaculada , Fernández Antonio , De Blas Ignacio , Badiola Juan José
Published: March 2010

The goal of this article was to characterize the clinical evolution of scrapie in naturally affected sheep. Eighteen sheep with scrapie diagnosed by examination of 3rd eyelid biopsy and 12 control ewes were studied throughout the duration of their disease. Diagnosis was confirmed postmortem by histopathologic, immunohistochemical, and Western blot analysis of nervous tissue. Complete clinical examinations were performed every 2 weeks for each animal, of which 3 clinical examinations per animal are reported. Those clinical signs that showed a significant frequency within the corresponding clinical examination were considered representative of each stage of the disease (ie, early, middle, and late). The representative clinical signs for the early stage were hypoesthesia in the limbs, alteration of mental status, and a body condition score <3. Remarkably, hypoesthesia in the limbs was one of the 1st signs appearing during the early clinical stage in the affected animals, even before the appearance of other signs. For the middle stage, representative signs were the same as those for the early stage, together with hyporreflexia in the limbs, cardiac arrhythmia, pruritus/wool loss, and the appearance of the nibbling reflex. Representative clinical signs for the late stage were the same as those for the early and middle stage, together with head tremors, hyperexcitability to external stimuli, ataxia or gait abnormalities, and teeth grinding. On the basis of these results, we propose the calculation of an objective clinical index that allows the differentiation among clinical stages and that could be useful for further studies. The usefulness of 3rd eyelid lymphoid tissue biopsies for sequential clinical studies in naturally scrapie‐affected sheep is demonstrated.
Fell Pony Syndrome in a Pony in North America
Authors: Gardner Rachel B. , Hart Kelsey A. , Stokol Tracy , Divers Thomas J. , Flaminio M. Julia B.F.
Published: March 2010

A 5‐week‐old Fell Pony colt was examined for fever, lethargy, and anemia. The colt had been lethargic for 1 week before examination, had continued to nurse, had a temperature of 104°F (40°C), and was treated with ceftiofur (5 mg/kg IM q12h). Approximately 36 hours before examination, the colt developed watery diarrhea. Blood work performed by the referring veterinarian on the day of admission revealed a PCV of 10%.
Primary Alimentary Lymphoma with Metastasis to the Liver Causing Encephalopathy in a Horse
Authors: Schnabel Lauren V. , Njaa Bradley L. , Gold Jenifer R. , Meseck Emily K.
Published: March 2010

A 23‐year‐old, 467‐kg Palomino mare was examined for evaluation of sudden onset severe ataxia and depression. The mare had been found down in a pasture and was unable to rise. She was observed, by her owner, to be normal 24 hours earlier. This mare had resided with this owner for approximately 1.5 years, had always lived out on pasture, and had experienced numerous episodes of colic since the time she was purchased. Recent reported feed changes included introduction of new hay. Upon arrival at the hospital, the mare was severely ataxic in all 4 limbs and extremely disoriented. She head‐pressed several times during the course of the evaluation and yawned repeatedly. The mare was tachycardic, with a heart rate of 98 beats per minute, and tachypneic, with a respiratory rate of 60 breaths per minute, and the mucous membranes were hyperemic and purple, with a capillary refill time of greater than 3 seconds. The mare was blind bilaterally, as indicated by absence of both menace and pupillary light responses. She had bilateral facial nerve paralysis and decreased hypoglossal nerve function. She was able to prehend, but was dysphagic with decreased tongue tone and movement. Analysis of the venous blood revealed metabolic acidosis and respiratory alkalosis with a normal pH of 7.38 (reference range 7.32–7.44), HCO3of 13 mEq/L (reference range 25–30 mEq/L), PCO2of 21.2 mmHg (reference range 36–46 mmHg), and BE of ‐12 mEq/L (reference range ‐1‐1 mEq/L).aIt also revealed a low blood urea nitrogen concentration of 8 mg/dL (reference range 11–27 mg/dL) and a high blood glucose concentration of 263 mg/dL (reference range 63–134 mg/dL).aBoth packed cell volume and total solids were high at 52% (reference range 32–53%), and 8 g/dL (reference range 5.8–7.7 g/dL), respectively. The blood ammonia concentration was 120 μmol/L (reference range 18–78 μmol/L)b.
Perinuclear Antineutrophilic Cytoplasmic Antibody and Response to Treatment in Diarrheic Dogs with Food Responsive Disease or Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Authors: Luckschander Nicole , Allenspach Karin , Hall Jean , Seibold Frank , Gröne Andrea , Doherr Marcus G. , Gaschen Frédéric
Published: March 2010

The goal of this study was to investigate the correlation between perinuclear antineutrophilic cytoplasmic antibody (pANCA) and clinical scores before and after treatment in diarrheic dogs with food‐responsive disease (FRD) or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). pANCA serology was evaluated prospectively by indirect immunofluorescence in 65 dogs with signs of gastrointestinal disease, and if positive, pANCA antibody titers were determined. Thirty‐nine dogs with FRD responded to a novel diet, and 26 dogs with IBD were treated with corticosteroids. The severity of clinical signs was scored by means of a canine IBD activity index (CIBDAI). At initial examination, a significantly (P= .002) higher percentage of dogs were pANCA‐positive in the FRD group (62%) compared with the IBD group (23%). pANCA titers were significantly higher (P=.003) before treatment in the FRD group (median titer 100) compared with the IBD group (median titer 1). However, there was no difference in pANCA titers between the groups after respective treatments because dogs in the IBD group had a significant increase in pANCA titer after treatment. The CIBDAI score decreased significantly (P<.001) after treatment in both groups (74% moderate to severe in FRD dogs before versus 8% after treatment; 85% moderate to severe in IBD dogs before versus 32% after treatment). There was no correlation between pANCA status in FRD or IBD dogs before treatment and scores for CIBDAI, endoscopy, or histopathology before or after treatment, except for the endoscopic duodenal score in dogs with FRD after treatment (P= .03). A positive pANCA test before therapy may aid in the diagnosis of FRD.
Molecular Detection of Microbes in Nasal Tissue of Dogs with Idiopathic Lymphoplasmacytic Rhinitis
Authors: Windsor Rebecca C. , Johnson Lynelle R. , Sykes Jane E. , Drazenovich Tracy L. , Leutenegger Christian M. , de Cock Hilde E.V.
Published: March 2010

Lymphoplasmacytic rhinitis (LPR) is a common histologic finding in dogs with chronic nasal disease; however, potential etiologies of this disorder have not been examined. We investigated the hypothesis that specific microbes contribute to clinical disease in dogs with LPR. Paraffin‐embedded nasal biopsies were obtained from 19 dogs with LPR, 10 dogs with nasal neoplasia, and 10 dogs with nasal aspergillosis. Nucleic acids were extracted from paraffin blocks, and real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was employed for detection of target genes for bacterial and fungal DNA, canine adenovirus 2 (CAV‐2), parainfluenza virus 3 (PI‐3), Chlamydia/Chlamydophila spp., and Bartonella spp. Conventional PCR was used for detection of Mycoplasma spp. Statistical analysis was performed using the Mann‐Whitney U‐test for nonparametric data, and significance was set at P < 0.05. DNA or RNA for CAV‐2, PI‐3, Bartonella, Mycoplasma, and Chlamydophila was not detected in any nasal biopsy. DNA loads for bacterial DNA did not differ among disease groups. Detection of fungal DNA in nasal biopsies was highest in dogs with aspergillosis (P < 0.0001); however, nasal biopsies of LPR dogs also displayed higher fungal DNA levels than samples from dogs with nasal neoplasia (P= 0.016). Detection of high levels of fungal DNA in nasal biopsies of dogs with LPR suggests that fungal organisms may be causally associated with the inflammation observed, although the possibility of entrapment or accumulation of fungi in the nasal cavity due to chronic inflammation cannot be excluded. Further investigations are required to elucidate the underlying etiopathogenesis of LPR.
Cardioversion of Supraventricular Tachycardia Using Lidocaine in Five Dogs
Authors: Johnson Michael Stafford , Martin Michael , Smith Paul
Published: March 2010

Sustained supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) may lead to life‐threatening complications such as tachycardia‐induced myocardial failure. We report the use of intravenous lidocainea in 5 dogs with SVT. Two dogs had evidence of an accessory conduction pathway, 2 were suspected of having an accessory pathway, and the mechanism of SVT was unknown in the remaining dog, which subsequently developed dilated cardiomyopathy 2 years later. In all cases there was rapid conversion to normal sinus rhythm, which was then maintained with oral mexiliteneb (4 dogs) or mexilitene combined with propranololc (1 dog).
Cardiac Troponins as Indicators of Acute Myocardial Damage in Dogs
Authors: Burgener Iwan A. , Kovacevic AIan , Mauldin G. Neal , Lombard Christophe W.
Published: March 2010

Cardiac troponin I (cTnI) and T (cTnT) have a high sequence homology across phyla and are sensitive and specific markers of myocardial damage. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the Cardiac Reader, a human point‐of‐care system for the determination of cTnT and myoglobin, and the Abbott Axsym System for the determination of cTnI and creatine kinase isoenzyme MB (CK‐MB) in healthy dogs and in dogs at risk for acute myocardial damage because of gastric dilatationvolvulus (GDV) and blunt chest trauma (BCT). In healthy dogs (n = 56), cTnI was below detection limits (< 0.1 μg/L) in 35 of 56 dogs (reference range 0‐0.7 μg/L), and cTnT was not measurable (< 0.05 ng/mL) in all but 1 dog. At presentation, cTnI, CK‐MB, myoglobin, and lactic acid were all significantly higher in dogs with GDV (n = 28) and BCT (n = 8) than in control dogs (P< .001), but cTnT was significantly higher only in dogs with BCT (P= .033). Increased cTnI or cTnT values were found in 26 of 28 (highest values 1.1–369 μg/L) and 16 of 28 dogs (0.1‐1.7 ng/mL) with GDV, and in 6 of 8 (2.3–82.4 μg/L) and 3 of 8 dogs (0.1‐0.29 ng/mL) with BCT, respectively. In dogs suffering from GDV, cTnI and cTnT increased further within the first 48 hours (P< .001). Increased cardiac troponins suggestive of myocardial damage occurred in 93% of dogs with GDV and 75% with BCT. cTnI appeared more sensitive, but cTnT may be a negative prognostic indicator in GDV. Both systems tested seemed applicable for the measurement of canine cardiac troponins, with the Cardiac Reader particularly suitable for use in emergency settings.
Utility of Polymerase Chain Reaction for Analysis of Antigen Receptor Rearrangement in Staging and Predicting Prognosis in Dogs with Lymphoma
Authors: Lana Susan E. , Jackson Tracey L. , Burnett Robert C. , Morley Paul S. , Avery Anne C.
Published: March 2010

In lymphoid neoplasia, molecular assays to confirm clonality rely on the fact that lymphoid cells normally contain DNA regions with unique sequences, resulting from recombination of the V, D, and J genes. The purpose of this study was to determine the utility of polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for antigen receptor rearrangements (PARR) for molecular staging and predicting prognosis in canine lymphoma. We hypothesized that the PARR assay would offer a sensitive method for detecting neoplastic cells in blood, and that the presence of such cells would be a negative prognostic finding compared with dogs with no detectable circulating tumor cells. Eighty‐six patients with histologically or cytologically confirmed lymphoma were studied from initial diagnosis until death or euthanasia. All patients had PARR assays of a representative tumor‐infiltrated lymph node and peripheral whole blood. Sixty‐two patients had clonal rearrangements detected in the lymph node and were able to be staged by PARR. Seventeen patients (27%) had no detectable tumor in their blood and 45 (73%) were blood positive. Our findings showed that (1) PARR correlated with clinical stage in that the PARR assay was more likely to detect tumor cells in blood in stage 5 lymphomas, (2) PARR was more sensitive for detecting circulating tumor cells than visual assessment of blood or bone marrow because 80% of stage 3 lymphomas were blood‐PARR‐positive, and (3) PCR stage was not prognostic for disease‐free interval (DFI) or survival.
Urine N‐Telopeptide Excretion in Dogs with Appendicular Osteosarcoma
Authors: Lacoste Hugues , Fan Timothy M. , de Lorimier Louis‐Philippe , Charney Sarah C.
Published: March 2010

Canine appendicular osteosarcoma (OSA) is a commonly diagnosed cancer that is capable of inducing pathologic bone remodeling. Investigating surrogate indices of bone metabolism may contribute to the diagnostic and therapeutic management of bone malignancies in companion animals. This study evaluated the excretion of N‐terminal telopeptide (NTx), a marker of bone resorption that is detected in urine. Sixty‐three dogs with appendicular OSA were compared with 29 age‐matched healthy dogs. Dogs with appendicular OSA had significantly higher baseline urine NTx excretion than healthy controls (P < .0001). In 17 dogs with OSA treated with either amputation or standardized palliative therapies, significant reductions in urine NTx excretion were observed, suggesting that excessive bone resorption in dogs with OSA may be linked with focal skeletal osteolysis or its consequences. To identify any relationship between indicators of pathologic bone turnover, baseline urine NTx excretion was correlated with serum bone alkaline phosphatase (bALP) or radiographic tumor lengths at diagnosis. No significant correlations were identified between baseline urine NTx excretion and either bALP or tumor length. The findings from this study suggest that high urinary NTx excretion may support the diagnosis of focal skeletal osteolysis in dogs, and reductions in urine NTx excretion after treatment may reflect elimination or minimization of pathologic bone resorption.
A Combination Chemotherapy Protocol with Dose Intensification and Autologous Bone Marrow Transplant (VELCAP‐HDC) for Canine Lymphoma
Authors: Frimberger Angela E. , Moore Antony S. , Rassnick Kenneth M. , Cotter Susan M. , O'Sullivan Jennifer L. , Quesenberry Peter J.
Published: March 2010

Twenty‐eight dogs with lymphoma were treated with a 12‐week, 5‐drug chemotherapy protocol concluding with high‐dose cyclophosphamide supported by autologous bone marrow transplants. A dose escalation design was used to determine the maximum tolerated cyclophosphamide dose (MTD) in this setting. Three cyclophosphamide dose levels were given: 300 mg/ m2IV (group1, 3 dogs), 400 mg/m2IV (group 2, 12 dogs), and 500 mg/m2IV (group 3, 13 dogs); and the MTD was 500 mg/m2IV. Toxicity was common but mild, and the dose‐limiting toxicity was myelosuppression, specifically neutropenia. No dog died as a result of treatment‐related toxicity. One dog in group 3 developed fever, neutropenia, and presumed sepsis and responded promptly to routine management. No other dog required hospitalization. Lower stage and higher cyclophosphamide dose (both increasing dose [study groups 1–3], and the highest dose [group 3]) compared with the lower doses combined (groups 1 and 2) were significantly associated with longer remission duration (allP<.0001). Median remission duration for dogs in group 3 was 54 weeks, compared with 21 weeks for dogs in groups 1 and 2 combined. Factors associated with longer survival time were lower stage(P=.042) and higher cyclophosphamide dose (both increasing dose [study groups 1–3], and the highest dose [group 3] compared with the lower doses combined [groups 1 and 2])(P=.027). Median survival time for dogs in group 3 was 139 weeks, compared with 43 weeks and 68 weeks for dogs in groups 1 and 2, respectively.
MalasseziaSpecies Isolated from the Intermammary and Preputial Fossa Areas of Horses
Authors: White S.D. , Vandenabeele S.I.J. , Drazenovich N.L. , Foley J.E.
Published: March 2010

Background:Malassezia‐type yeasts previously have been observed on cytologic examination of the intermammary region of mares that presented with tail‐head pruritus; topical antiyeast treatment resolved the pruritus. Further,Malasseziadermatitis has been observed in horses in intertriginous areas such as the udder and prepuce; the species of yeast was not confirmed. It is not known whether healthy mares or male horses can be carriers of this yeast in these body areas.

Hypothesis:Malasseziaspp. are present in the intermammary region in healthy mares and the preputial fossa in healthy geldings.

Animals: Eleven healthy horses (5 mares and 6 geldings).

Methods: Samples of surface material were taken digitally from the intermammary area of 5 mares and the preputial fossa region of 6 geldings. The samples were examined cytologically and were cultured on modified Sabouraud's dextrose agar. The DNA from yeast colonies grown on the agar was extracted, and samples were assayed using fungal generic polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis. Amplicons with positive PCR results were sequenced and compared with sequences in the BLAST database search program.

Results: Of 44 attempts at culture, 5 yielded a species identified asMalassezia equi, and 2 yieldedM slooffiae.In contrast, of 44 cytologic examinations, yeasts with the morphology ofMalasseziaspp. were seen in 40 samples.

Conclusions and clinical importance: Due to its presence in healthy horses, finding ofMalassezia‐type yeast on cytologic examination may not incriminate it as a pathogen. Despite difficulty in culturing, cytologic examination was an effective tool to rapidly demonstrate the organism.
Syringomyelia: Current Concepts in Pathogenesis, Diagnosis, and Treatment
Authors: Rusbridge Clare , Greitz Dan , Iskandar Bermans J.
Published: March 2010

Syringomyelia is a condition that results in fluid‐containing cavities within the parenchyma of the spinal cord as a consequence of altered cerebrospinal fluid dynamics. This review discusses the history and the classification of the disorder, the current theories of pathogenesis, and the advanced imaging modalities used in the diagnosis. The intramedullary pulse pressure theory (a new pathophysiologic concept of syringomyelia) also is presented. In addition, the current understanding of the painful nature of this condition is discussed and the current trends in medical and surgical management are reviewed.
Effectiveness of Acupuncture in Veterinary Medicine: Systematic Review
Authors: Habacher Gabriele , Pittler Max H. , Ernst Edzard
Published: March 2010

Acupuncture is a popular complementary treatment option in human medicine. Increasingly, owners also seek acupuncture for their animals. The aim of the systematic review reported here was to summarize and assess the clinical evidence for or against the effectiveness of acupuncture in veterinary medicine. Systematic searches were conducted on Medline, Embase, Amed, Cinahl, Japana Centra Revuo Medicina and Chikusan Bunken Kensaku. Hand‐searches included conference proceedings, bibliographies, and contact with experts and veterinary acupuncture associations. There were no restrictions regarding the language of publication. All controlled clinical trials testing acupuncture in any condition of domestic animals were included. Studies using laboratory animals were excluded. Titles and abstracts of identified articles were read, and hard copies were obtained. Inclusion and exclusion of studies, data extraction, and validation were performed independently by two reviewers. Methodologic quality was evaluated by means of the Jadad score. Fourteen randomized controlled trials and 17 nonrandomized controlled trials met our criteria and were, therefore, included. The methodologic quality of these trials was variable but, on average, was low. For cutaneous pain and diarrhea, encouraging evidence exists that warrants further investigation in rigorous trials. Single studies reported some positive intergroup differences for spinal cord injury, Cushing's syndrome, lung function, hepatitis, and rumen acidosis. These trials require independent replication. On the basis of the findings of this systematic review, there is no compelling evidence to recommend or reject acupuncture for any condition in domestic animals. Some encouraging data do exist that warrant further investigation in independent rigorous trials.
Influence of Infecting Serogroup on Clinical Features of Leptospirosis in Dogs
Authors: Goldstein Richard E. , Lin Rebecca C. , Langston Catherine E. , Scrivani Peter V. , Erb Hollis N. , Barr Stephen C.
Published: March 2010

The purpose of this study was to review recent cases of leptospirosis seen at referral centers in New York State and to identify differences in clinical or clinicopathologic aspects of the disease among different suspected infecting serogroups. Medical records at the Cornell University Hospital for Animals and the Animal Medical Center in New York City were reviewed to identify dogs diagnosed with leptospirosis from September 1996 to August 2002. Records of 55 dogs met the inclusion criteria for the study. The suspected infecting serogroups included 21 occurrences of Grippotyphosa, 12 of Pomona, 6 of Autumnalis, 5 of Bratislava, 2 of Hardjo, and 1 of Canicola. Five dogs had equal titers to serogroups Grippotyphosa and Pomona, and 3 had equal titers to 2 other serogroups. Common clinical signs included lethargy, anorexia, and vomiting. Common clinicopathologic findings included anemia, thrombocytopenia, azotemia, hyperphosphatemia, high liver enzyme activity, and hyperbilirubinemia. Forty‐three of 55 dogs were discharged from the hospital. Serogroup‐specific analysis indicated that dogs with suspected serogroup Pomona infection were more likely to suffer from vomiting (P= .01), thrombocytopenia (P= .009), severe azotemia (P= .04), and hyperphosphatemia (P= .006) than dogs with other serogroups and were less likely to be discharged alive from the hospital (P= .03). This study suggests that only minor clinically relevant differences exist among serogroups.Leptospiraserogroup Pomona caused more severe renal disease and was associated with a worse outcome compared with disease caused by other serogroups.
Pharmacokinetic and Pharmacodynamic Parameters of Ramipril and Ramiprilat in Healthy Dogs and Dogs with Reduced Glomerular Filtration Rate
Authors: Lefebvre Hervé P. , Jeunesse Elisabeth , Laroute Valérie , Toutain Pierre‐Louis
Published: March 2010

Ramipril, an angiotensin‐converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor for use in dogs, is converted in vivo to its active form, ramiprilat, which is eliminated in the bile and urine in the dog. The objective of this study was to assess the effect of renal impairment on the pharmacokinetics (PKs) and pharmacodynamics (PDs) of ramipril and ramiprilat. Ten adult Beagle dogs were used. PK/PD studies were performed before and after the induction of subclinical renal impairment. Ramiprilat was given at 0.25 mg/kg by a single IV bolus. After a 2‐week washout period, ramipril was administered PO at 0.25 mg/kg once daily for 8 days. Ramipril and ramiprilat PKs were studied by using a physiologically based model. The relationship between free plasma ramiprilat concentration and ACE activity was described by using the fractional Hill model. Glomerular filtration rate was decreased by 58%. No biologically relevant changes in usual plasma variables were observed between the 1st and the 8th day of oral treatment with ramipril under either condition. After an IV bolus of ramiprilat, the only changes in renal‐impaired dogs were a 14 and 49% decrease in clearance of the free fraction of ramiprilat (P<.01) and free plasma concentration required to produce 50% of the maximal effect (P<.05), respectively. After repeated PO administration of ramipril, there were no alterations in any of the PK and PD parameters in healthy or renal‐impaired dogs. No adjustment of the recommended PO dosage of ramipril is needed in dogs with moderate renal impairment.
Outcome of Dogs with Diabetic Ketoacidosis: 127 Dogs (1993–2003)
Authors: Hume Daniel Z. , Drobatz Kenneth J. , Hess Rebecka S.
Published: March 2010

The aim of this study was to retrospectively describe the outcome of 127 dogs with naturally occurring diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) and to examine the association between outcome of canine DKA and clinical and clinicopathologic findings. Eighty‐two (65%) dogs were diagnosed with DKA at the time of initial diagnosis of diabetes mellitus (DM). Eighty‐seven dogs (69%) had one or more concurrent disorders diagnosed at the time of hospitalization. Commonly identified concurrent conditions included acute pancreatitis (52, 41%), urinary tract infection (21, 20%), and hyperadrenocorticism (19, 15%). Dogs with coexisting hyperadrenocorticism were less likely to be discharged from the hospital (P= .029). Of 121 treated dogs, 89 dogs (70%) survived to be discharged from the hospital, with a median hospitalization of 6 days. Nonsurvivors had lower ionized calcium concentration (P<.001), lower hematocrit (P= .036), lower venous pH (P= .0058), and larger base deficit (P= .0066) than did survivors. Time from admission to initiation of subcutaneous insulin therapy was correlated with lower serum potassium concentration (P= .0056), lower serum phosphorus concentration (P= .0043), abnormally high white blood cell count (P= .0060), large base deficit (P= .0015), and low venous pH (P <.001). Multivariate analysis showed that base deficit was associated with outcome (P<.021). For each unit increase in the base deficit, there was a 9% greater likelihood of discharge from the hospital. In conclusion, the majority of dogs with DKA were not previously diagnosed with DM. Concurrent conditions and electrolyte abnormalities are common in DKA and are associated with length of hospitalization. Survival was correlated to degree of anemia, hypocalcemia, and acidosis.
Effect of Atropine‐Dobutamine Stress Test on Left Ventricular Echocardiographic Parameters in Untrained Warmblood Horses
Authors: Sandersen Charlotte F. , Detilleux Johanne , de Moffarts Brieuc , van Loon Gunther , Amory Hélène
Published: March 2010

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of combined atropine low‐dose dobutamine stress test on left ventricular parameters in adult warmblood horses, to establish a potential protocol for pharmacological stress echocardiography. Seven healthy untrained warmblood horses aged 9 to 22 years were used. Heart rate (HR) and left ventricular B‐ and M‐mode dimensions were recorded at baseline and during stress testing with 35 μg/kg atropine IV followed by incremental dobutamine infusion of 2 to 6 μg/kg/min. HR increased significantly (P<.05) during the pharmacological challenge, and a maximal HR of 156.6±12.5 bpm was reached at maximal dobutamine infusion rate. Systolic and diastolic interventricular septum thickness, systolic and diastolic left ventricular free wall thickness, and fractional shortening increased significantly and reached a maximum at the highest infusion rate (mean ± SD: 4.51±0.27 versus 5.65±0.31 cm, 2.89±0.19 versus 3.78±0.10 cm, 3.72±0.34 versus 4.77±0.18 cm, 2.44±0.28 versus 3.11±0.34 cm, 34.98±3.82 versus 50.56±3.42%, respectively). Systolic and diastolic left ventricular internal diameter decreased significantly during dobutamine infusion. Left ventricular external and internal area were significantly lower at a dobutamine infusion rate of 2 μg/kg/min but no further decrease was observed during the subsequent steps. Systolic and diastolic myocardial area was significantly lower after the administration of dobutamine but not significantly different during dobutamine infusion, when compared to baseline values. This pharmacological stress test induced significant changes in left ventricular echocardiographic parameters in adult warmblood horses. Additional research should evaluate the value of this stress test in horses suffering from cardiac disease.
Equine Herpesvirus Type 1‐Associated Myeloencephalopathy in The Netherlands: A Four‐Year Retrospective Study (1999–2003)
Authors: Goehring Lutz S. , van Winden Steven C. , van Maanen C. , van Oldruitenborgh‐Oosterbaan Marianne M. Sloet
Published: March 2010

Equine herpesvirus type 1(EHV‐1)‐associated myeloencephalopathy (EHM) is a rare disease affecting the central nervous system and, in particular, the spinal cord of horses. Epidemiologic data are limited, and usually are restricted to the description of a single outbreak. During an observational period of 4 years, we evaluated 9 outbreaks of EHM in The Netherlands. A risk factor analysis was done on the data from 6 outbreaks. Findings were: regular appearance of EHM outbreaks in The Netherlands (2–3/y); strong association of EHM with season; and risk factors, such as breed, sex, age, and fever. Female horses, aged horses, and specific breeds were at greater risk to develop severe neurologic disease. Other breeds and horses <3 years old were never observed to suffer from EHM during these outbreaks. It was concluded that breed variation, in addition to the presence of a specific EHV‐1 strain, and environmental factors influence an outbreak of EHM on a premise.
Diagnostic Performance of the Equine IgM Capture ELISA for Serodiagnosis of West Nile Virus Infection
Authors: Long Maureen T. , Jeter William , Hernandez Jorge , Sellon Debra C. , Gosche David , Gillis Karen , Bille Emily , Gibbs E. Paul
Published: March 2010

The objectives of these studies were to assess the diagnostic performance (sensitivity and specificity) of the IgM capture enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA; MAC) for diagnosis of West Nile (WN) virus in horses and to examine the performance of this test by using different criteria for seropositivity. A total of 36 horses classified as WN virus infected (group 1) and 383 horses from 4 subpopulations of hoses classified as noninfected (groups 2, 3, 4, and 5) were used in the study. The sensitivity (proportion of infected horses that tested positive for WN virus IgM antibodies) and specificity (proportion of noninfected horses that tested negative) were calculated at different cutoff points by using receiver operating curve (ROC) analysis. Using a selected cutoff point = 2.0, the sensitivity and specificity of the MAC were 91.7 and 99.2%, respectively. The area under the ROC curve = 0.95 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.89 to 1.0), suggesting that the MAC is a useful tool for diagnosis of recent WN virus exposure in horses. In fulfillment of the 2nd objective, 2 other indices were developed and these indices approached 1.0 for the AUC with smaller 95% CIs. These indices were then used to test 602 additional diagnostic samples submitted from suspect horses between 2002 and 2004. Using the standard cutoff, 194 (32%) of the horses were interpreted as positive. Utilizing newly predicted cutoff criteria from each index, additional horses were identified as positive. In conclusion, the MAC as used for identification of WN virus‐diseased horses undergoing recent exposure performs reliably at the standard cutoff for seropositivity. A negative test might not completely rule out WN virus disease, but horses that test negative were most likely not exposed to WNV. Performance of the test can be further improved by investigation of other indexes of seropositivity.
C‐Reactive Protein Concentration in Dogs with Chronic Valvular Disease
Authors: Rush John E. , Lee Nathan D. , Freeman Lisa M. , Brewer Barbara
Published: March 2010

The purpose of the study reported here was to determine whether dogs with chronic valvular disease have increased plasma C‐reactive protein concentration, compared with that in clinically normal dogs. Blood was collected from 47 dogs with physical and echocardiographic evidence of chronic valvular disease and from 20 healthy controls. C‐reactive protein concentration was determined with a commercial canine C‐reactive protein enzyme immunoassay. Compared with controls, dogs with chronic valvular disease had higher plasma concentration of C‐reactive protein (median 2.17 μg/mL [range, 0.86‐33.8 μg/mL]) versus 1.43 μg/mL [range, 0.84‐4.99 μg/mL];P<.001). C‐reactive protein concentration was not related to the presence of congestive heart failure or murmur grade. The results of this study suggest that increased concentration of C‐reactive protein is found in dogs with chronic valvular disease.
Clinical Signs, Magnetic Resonance Imaging Features, and Outcome After Surgical and Medical Treatment of Otogenic Intracranial Infection in 11 Cats and 4 Dogs
Authors: Sturges Beverly K. , Dickinson Peter J. , Kortz Gregg D. , Berry Wayne L. , Vernau Karen M. , Wisner Erik R. , LeCouteur Richard A.
Published: March 2010

Brainstem dysfunction resulting from central extension of infection is a life‐threatening complication of otitis media/interna (OMI) that has been described infrequently in dogs and cats. We review the clinical signs of disease, diagnostic findings, and results of surgical and medical treatments of brainstem disease attributable to otogenic intracranial infection in cats and dogs. Eleven cats and 4 dogs were examined because of acute, subacute, or chronic clinical signs of brain disease including central vestibular signs, altered mentation, abnormal posture/gait, cranial nerve deficits, and seizures. Results of a minimal database (CBC, serum biochemical panel, urinalysis, thoracic radiographs, and abdominal ultrasonographic images or radiographs) were within reference intervals in all animals. Magnetic resonance (MR) images of the head were acquired for all animals, and cisternal cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) from 9 of 11 cats and 3 of 4 dogs was examined. Surgical exploration and ventral bulla osteotomy were done for 12 of 15 animals, followed by 1–3 months of antibiotic therapy; the remaining animals were euthanized before treatment. In all animals, MR imaging was effective in characterizing the location and extent of the pathologic changes intracranially as well as within middle/inner ear structures. Results of CSF analysis were characteristic of bacterial infection in most of the animals with acute or subacute disease. Since long‐term outcome in all treated animals was very good to excellent, it was concluded that dogs and cats with intracranial disease secondary to extension of otitis media/interna have a good‐to‐excellent prognosis when the condition was diagnosed and was treated by surgical exploration and appropriate antibiotic therapy.