Showing papers in "Veterinary Record Case Reports in 2013"

Lipid infusion in the management of poisoning: a report of 6 canine cases.

Abstract: Intravenous administration of lipid is a relatively new treatment in the management of toxicity from lipophilic compounds. It is used in human medicine in the treatment of toxicity from lipophilic local anaesthetics and cardiotoxic drugs and can result in dramatic improvement in clinical status. We present six cases of poisoning in dogs successfully treated with lipid infusion after ingestion of ivermectin (3), moxidectin (2) and baclofen (1). The dogs ranged in age from eight weeks to 14 years, and weighed 4–30 kg. Intravenous lipid therapy was started between six and eight hours and 22 hours after ingestion, and all the dogs responded well. In four dogs, there was clinical improvement within one hour; one had improved within two hours and the other within 4.5 hours of lipid administration. The only adverse effect of lipid infusion reported was mild swelling and pain after extravasation in one case which resolved with conservative management. All the dogs were discharged within 24–52 hours after exposure (7–46 hours after the start of lipid administration), and none developed any apparent sequelae.

Emerging canine angiostrongylosis in northern England: five fatal cases

Abstract: Angiostrongylus vasorum is a metastrongylid nematode parasite that resides in the pulmonary arteries and right ventricle of dogs and other canids. Since its discovery in France in 1866 by Baillet (Rosen and others 1970), A vasorum has been reported in dogs in Europe (Denmark, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey and the UK), Africa (Uganda), South America (Brazil and Columbia) and Canada (Newfoundland) (Brennan and others 2004, Bourque and others 2008, Traversa and Guglielmini 2008). It is widely assumed that foxes act as a reservoir of infection for dogs and a recent study has shown that infection is endemic in foxes in areas of the UK where there is a high incidence of A vasorum infection in canines (Morgan and others 2008). In the UK, canine A vasorum infection was first reported in Cornwall in 1982 (Simpson and Neal 1982) with further cases appearing in South Wales in 1987 (Patteson and others 1987, Trees 1987). In the past decade, the disease has been increasingly diagnosed in dogs in the south east of England (Chapman and others 2004) and recently an autochthonous case was reported in Glasgow (J. Dukes-McEwan, personal communication). There have so far been no published cases of canine A vasorum infection in northern England, and infection has been absent in foxes (Morgan and others 2008). Although clinical signs in association with A vasorum infection in dogs can be variable, they typically represent three main syndromes: cardiorespiratory signs, coagulopathies and neurological dysfunction (Koch and Willesen 2008). Dogs with cardiorespiratory signs present with a history that may include chronic coughing, exercise intolerance, syncope, dyspnoea and tachypnoea (Bolt and others 1994), whereas the coagulopathies can result in anaemia, subcutaneous haematomas, internal haemorrhages and prolonged bleeding from wounds or after surgery (Ramsey and others 1996, …

Infectious canine hepatitis in red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) in the United Kingdom

Abstract: The pathological findings are described in three cases of infectious canine hepatitis in free-ranging red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) in England. The foxes died after short periods of clinical illness. Mild jaundice and hepatic congestion were evident grossly. On histopathological examination, intranuclear inclusion bodies were visible in hepatocytes, in association with hepatocyte dissociation and necrosis, as well as in renal glomeruli, renal tubular epithelial cells and vascular endothelial cells. Canine adenovirus type 1 (CAV-1) was isolated from all three foxes. In a serological study, antibodies to CAV-1 were detected in tissue fluid extracts taken from 11 of 58 (19 per cent) frozen red fox carcases from England and Scotland.

Treatment of fibroadenomatosis in 14 cats with aglepristone – changes in blood parameters and follow-up

Abstract: Fourteen female cats with fibroadenomatosis were treated with aglepristone, and the effectiveness of the treatment and its effect on selected haematological and blood chemistry parameters were studied. The cats were monitored for 12 months after the end of the treatment. Complete remission of the clinical signs was achieved on average 3·9 weeks after the treatment began; the success of the treatment confirmed the clinical diagnosis of fibroadenomatosis. During the course of the treatment the cats’ haematological parameters returned to normal. In cats that had previously been treated with longacting medroxyprogesterone acetate, treatment with aglepristone for five weeks was recommended. Cases of fibroadenomatosis reappearing after a few months should be regarded as new disease rather than a relapse. Six cats were subsequently mated and four gave birth to one or more litters; all the pregnancies proceeded normally with no clinically evident fibroadenomatosis. The other eight cats underwent ovariohysterectomy soon after the aglepristone treatment was completed.

Gill pathology in farmed salmon associated with the jellyfish Aurelia aurita

Abstract: JELLYFISH-mediated damage to salmon and other species in aquaculture is a periodic challenge, which is considered by some workers to be increasing in frequency (Graham 2001, Purcell and others 2007, Rodger and others 2011). Significant pathology in affected fish has been observed in the gills and is considered to be due to the toxic effects of jellyfish venom via nematocyst discharge (Helmholz and others 2010, Rodger and others 2011). It has recently been suggested that certain jellyfish species may also act as vectors for Tenacibaculum maritimum (Ferguson and others 2010, Delannoy and others 2011), a bacterium frequently associated with gill pathology and the causal agent of tenacibaculosis. A number of jellyfish species have been implicated in fish kills over the years including the hydromedusae Phialella quadrata (Bruno and Ellis 1985) and Solmaris corona (Hay and Murray 2008), the siphonophores Muggiaea atlantica (Fossa and others 2003) and Apolemia uvaria (Bamstedt and others 1998), the scyphomedusae Cyanea capillata (Bruno and Poppe 1996), Pelagia noctiluca (Doyle and others 2008) and Aurelia aurita (Bruno and Poppe 1996). However, little descriptive information on the pathology and pathophysiology of jellyfish-mediated damage to fish has been published to date. This short communication describes the clinical impact of a jellyfish bloom on a finfish farm on the north-west coast …

Long-term study of MRSA ST1, t127 mastitis in a dairy cow

Abstract: METHICILLIN-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) has been reported in human medicine as a cause of nosocomial and community-associated infections (Otter and French 2010). In veterinary medicine, MRSA strains have been identified in a wide range of animals and diseases (Leonard and Markey 2008, Fessler and others 2009, Huber and others 2010, Turkyilmaz and others 2010), thus it is considered an emerging threat with a high zoonotic potential (Juhasz-Kaszanyitzky and others 2007). MRSA sequence type (ST) 1, spa type (t) 127 has been mostly isolated from community-associated infections, but t127 has seldom been identified in bovine and swine (Hasman and others 2010). The present report regards a dairy cow with an intramammary infection by MRSA ST1, t127 that was investigated over an entire lactation and submitted to histological evaluation of mammary tissue to explore both bacterial molecular features and host immune response in the milk and mammary tissue. The study was performed because only a few mammary infections of the dairy cow by this particular strain have been reported and no information is available on the interaction between the bacteria and the mammary gland. A five-year-old Holstein-Friesian dairy cow from a closed herd located in Milano province, Italy, consisting of 25 lactating cows, showed an intramammary infection with S aureus in both right quarters. The isolate revealed a multidrug resistance profile by the agar-plate method, and PCR analysis (Costa and Palladini 2005) confirmed the presence of mecA genes in both isolates, which were consequently classified as MRSA. The farmer decided to antibiotic treat and dry off the animal, despite the …

Observational study of 14 cases of chronic pancreatitis in dogs

Abstract: This study reports the clinical, clinicopathological and ultrasonographic findings from dogs with chronic pancreatitis (CP). Fourteen dogs with clinical signs consistent with CP and histological confirmation of the disease were evaluated. Abdominal ultrasound and clinical pathology results were recorded. Sensitivities of pancreatic enzymes for diagnosis of CP were calculated with two different cut-off values. The mean age of affected dogs was 9.1 years. Spaniels were the most common breed with CP, representing seven of the 14 dogs in this study. CP was histologically severe in nine cases. Most dogs showed chronic low-grade gastrointestinal signs and abdominal pain. Five dogs had exocrine pancreatic insufficiency and five dogs had diabetes mellitus. The sensitivity of elevated trypsin-like immunoreactivity for CP was 17 per cent. The sensitivities of canine pancreatic lipase immunoreactivity, lipase and amylase for CP were 44 to 67 per cent or 14 to 28 per cent depending on the cut-off value used. Cholesterol was elevated in 58 per cent of samples. Liver enzymes were often elevated. The pancreas appeared abnormal on 56 per cent of ultrasound examinations. Ten dogs had died by the end of the study period; only one case was due to CP.

Case study of copper poisoning in a British dairy herd

Abstract: Following the initial diagnosis of chronic copper poisoning (CCP), the copper (Cu) status of a British dairy herd was investigated. Eight fatal cases of CCP were identified over a 17-month period, from December 1999 to May 2001, involving seven Jersey cows and one Holstein-Friesian; seven cows were dry when CCP occurred. Case diagnostic criteria were necrotising hepatopathy associated with abnormally high liver and kidney Cu concentrations. Analysis of the ration for the high-yielding Jersey cow group revealed about 50 mg Cu/kg dry matter intake (DMI). Risk factors predisposing to fatal CCP were Jersey breed, previous high yield, first two weeks of the dry period and moderately high dietary Cu (greater than 40 mg Cu/kg DMI).

First cases of squirrelpox in red squirrels (Sciurus vulgaris) in Scotland

Abstract: Squirrelpox, caused by a poxvirus, is a major threat to the remaining UK red squirrel population. The spread of antibody-positive grey squirrels has been monitored in the UK for the past decade. In 2005 grey squirrels that had been exposed to the virus appeared in the south of Scotland for the first time, followed approximately two years later by the appearance of squirrelpox disease in the local red squirrels. Four squirrels were examined. They all had gross external lesions and histological lesions typical of squirrelpox disease, but no significant internal lesions. The diagnosis was confirmed by PCR, electron microscopy and serology.

Haemolytic anaemia and acute pancreatitis associated with zinc toxicosis in a dog

Abstract: We describe a case of zinc toxicity in a 14-month-old, female, neutered, Cavalier King Charles spaniel with a 48-hour history of haematochezia, icterus and collapse. Regenerative anaemia with a packed-cell volume of 7 per cent was seen. Prior to referral, radiography had revealed a gastric, metallic foreign body which was removed at exploratory laparotomy. On presentation, the dog was comatose, hypothermic and bradycardic – resuscitation was performed successfully, but the dog then displayed marked abdominal pain. The dog died 12 hours after presentation. At postmortem examination, the animal showed severe icterus. Both kidneys were diffusely dark red; the pancreas was diffusely pale and nodular. Histopathological examination revealed evidence of intravascular haemolysis with blood vessel lumens containing haemoglobin. The renal tubules also contained large amounts of intraluminal haemoglobin with haemoglobin crystals scattered throughout the cortex and medulla. The pancreas exhibited multifocal coagulative necrosis, surrounded by a neutrophil-dominated inflammatory infiltrate. Zinc levels were markedly increased above the normal reference range in both liver and kidney. This report describes the clinical and pathological findings of a case of acute zinc toxicity in a dog following ingestion of a metallic object which resulted in marked haemolytic anaemia and acute pancreatitis.

Arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy as a cause of unexpected cardiac death in two horses

Abstract: Postmortem and histological examination of the hearts from two horses, a five-yearold Clydesdale gelding and a 15-year-old cob gelding, revealed changes characteristic of arrhythmogenic right ventricular cardiomyopathy. In both cases, on gross examination, the right ventricular endocardium and interventricular septum were almost entirely replaced with a gelatinous yellow fibroareolar tissue. This tissue was histologically a combination of fibrous and adipose tissue that had replaced the normal myofibres and disrupted the Purkinje fibres.

Detection of EGHV-5 in a self-limiting papilloma-like lesion in the trunk of an Asian elephant (Elephas maximus)

Abstract: HERPESVIRUS infections are widespread in captive populations of Asian elephants and result in major implications for elephant management. Molecular studies have thus far identified six distinct elephant gammaherpesviruses (EGHVs), and a further seven distinct elephant endotheliotropic herpesviruses (EEHVs) (Latimer and others 2011, Wellehan and others 2008). Gammaherpesviruses have limited pathogenic potential upon primary infection of their natural host, and are commonly found in healthy animals of a variety of species (Wellehan and others 2008). As a result, less research has been undertaken on EGHVs than on EEHVs. EGHVs have so far been identified in eye and genital secretions and papilloma-like skin lesions of asymptomatic animals (Latimer and others 2011, Wellehan and others 2008). There is growing evidence of an association with ocular disease (epiphora, blepharitis and conjunctivitis) (Wellehan and others 2006) and genital lesions (described by Wellehan and others [2008] as ‘vaginal plaques’); the latter might be more accurately described as vestibular plaques, since it is generally the vestibular mucosa on which they are detected. Both are relatively common findings in captive elephants. Coinfections with multiple EEHVs and EGHVs are possible (Latimer and others 2011). In contrast, EEHV is one of the most important infectious diseases of captive elephants, threatening the sustainability of the global captive population. This acute, typically fatal, haemorrhagic disease was first documented over 10 years ago (Richman and others 1999). Investigations of deaths of young Asian ( Elephas maximus ) and African ( Loxodonta africana ) elephants revealed herpesvirus-like particles in heart, liver and tongue endothelial cells, and PCR studies identified two related betaherpesviruses (later designated EEHV-1 and EEHV-2). The epidemiological picture has become more complicated by the discovery of further fatal betaherpesviruses (designated genus Proboscivirus ) such as EEHV-3 (Garner …

Echinococcus multilocularis in the European beaver (Castor fibre L.) from Serbia: First report

Abstract: Echinococcus multilocularis is a tapeworm of canid carnivores. It is widely present in the Northern Hemisphere with endemic regions in central Europe, northern and central Eurasia, and in parts of North America. The main definitive host in Europe is the red fox ( Vulpes vulpes ), with a prevalence of more than 50 per cent in some studies (Losson and others 1997, Roming and others 1999, Hofer and others 2000, Tackmann and others 2001, Casulli and others 2005, Vervaeke and others 2006). At the beginning of the 1990s, this parasite started to spread from the endemic areas in central Europe (Roming 2002, Vervaeke and others 2006). It is suggested that one of the main causes of its spread is the increased number of foxes in European countries, which occurred after the decrease of the incidence of rabies as a result of successful peroral vaccination (Chautan and others 2000). E. multilocularis is a pathogenic zoonosis. Rodents are the usual intermediate host, but humans can be an accidental intermediate host. Humans are infected by ingesting eggs from a contaminated environment. Oncospheres are released in the digestive tract and further spread through the entire body through hepatopulmonary ways (Kulisic and others 1999). They are usually found in the liver causing alveolar echinococcosis, which is lethal if left untreated (Craig …

Two cases of equine pregnancy loss associated with Leptospira infection in England

Abstract: INFECTION with Leptospira can cause abortions and stillbirths in domestic cattle, sheep and pigs, as well as in wild animals. It has also been well documented as a cause of abortions in mares in several countries, including the USA, Canada, South America, New Zealand, Australia and some European countries. However, apart from Northern Ireland (Ellis and others 1983, Ellis and O'Brien 1988), leptospirosis has not been positively identified as a cause of equine pregnancy loss in the UK. This short communication describes two cases of pregnancy loss associated with Leptospira infection, which are believed to be the first documented cases in England. Horses frequently have antibodies to several Leptospira serovars, indicating that they have been exposed, but not necessarily that they are clinically infected (Bernard 1993). In the UK, the most common serovars are Bratislava, Icterohaemorrhagiae, Canicola and Hardjo (Hathaway and others 1981), in many countries, serovars Pomona and Grippotyphosa are also common (Szeredi and Haake 2006). In 2007, 42 samples of equine fetal kidney (cortex and medulla) were collected during diagnostic postmortem examinations, placed in transport medium and submitted for Leptospira PCR analysis to Veterinary Laboratories Agency — Weybridge. The routine investigations on the fetus and placenta included gross dissection, microbiology and histopathology. Immunohistochemistry for Leptospira was carried out retrospectively on two cases, one that was Leptospira PCR positive and showed unusual fetal lesions (case 1), and one that showed unusual placental lesions (case 2). For PCR testing, kidney tissue was macerated and boiled, and the DNA was extracted using a Roche MagNA Pure LC instrument. The Leptospira PCR, which was performed on a Roche LightCycler, employs two separate reactions, one to detect DNA from pathogenic leptospires, and the other to check for inhibition of the PCR. Fluorescent probes detect the production of amplicon throughout the PCR …

Veterinary Record Case Reports

Abstract: Welcome to Veterinary Record Case Reports, an exciting new addition to the expanding group of BVA journals published by the prestigious BMJ with its long heritage of excellence in medical publishing. Until now there has been limited opportunity to publish veterinary case reports, as most journals, including Veterinary Record, will only publish large and notable case series or single cases of exceptional novelty or significance. Thus, this initiative presents a real opportunity for colleagues outside large specialist referral centres, universities and research institutes to launch their publishing careers. Indeed, we will be encouraging reports of cases from first-opinion practice, less usual areas of practice and from the extramural studies of veterinary students. Colleagues writing up cases as part of their studies leading to a Certificate or Diploma are particularly encouraged to submit their reports for publication in this journal. Veterinary Record Case Reports will be delivering a focused, peer-reviewed, valuable collection of cases in all disciplines so that veterinary professionals, researchers and others can easily …

Magnetic resonance findings in a domestic short-hair cat with presumptive mucopolysaccharidosis

Abstract: Mucopolysaccharidosis (MPS) are lysosomal storage diseases of humans and domestic animals generally inherited by an autosomal recessive trait. Affected animals are normal at birth but they then have progressive growth abnormalities and generally exhibit neurologic abnormalities. An 18-month-old female, neutered, domestic, short-hair cat presented for evaluation of progressive pelvic limb ataxia, generalised weakness and spinal hyperaesthesia. The result of a toluidine spot test indicated the presence of glycosaminoglycans in the urine. This result is strongly suggestive of MPS. The magnetic resonance abnormalities found are very similar to the abnormalities described in human medicine. This is the first case report where magnetic resonance findings in a patient with MPS are described in veterinary medicine.

Use of a deslorelin implant to control aggression in a male bearded dragon (Pogona vitticeps)

Abstract: BEARDED dragons ( Pogona vitticeps ) are increasingly popular as pets. These animals are generally inoffensive (Rowland 2009). However, they can on occasion be aggressive and can inflict a painful bite. This short communication describes the use of a deslorelin implant to control aggression in a young male bearded dragon. A six-month-old male bearded dragon was presented. Over the previous month, it had become increasingly aggressive towards the owner to the point where it would attempt to bite on the slightest attempt at handling. On physical examination, the animal was bright and alert but very aggressive, exhibiting threatening displays (open mouth and inflated pouch) and attempting to bite. The animal's bodyweight was 191 g. No abnormalities were noted on physical examination. A faecal sample submitted revealed the presence of oxyurid ova. Blood was drawn from the ventral coccygeal vein and submitted to Pinmoore Animal Laboratory Services, Tarporley, Cheshire,for routine biochemistry and haematology and also for a testosterone assay. Total protein was low (50 g/l, reference range 52 to 72 g/l [Rowland 2009]). Creatine kinase activity was elevated (952 …

Review of seven cases of granulosa cell tumour of the equine ovary

Abstract: This paper reviews the equine granulosa cell tumour (GCT) and describes the clinicopathological features, treatment and outcome in seven cases of GCT in mares. Mares were presented with unilateral ovarian enlargement during the 2007 to 2010 breeding seasons. The mean (sd) age of the mares was 11.7 (5.96) years. Three mares were multiparous barren, three were nulliparous and one was primigravida. Behaviour at presentation was 57 per cent anoestrus, 28 per cent with stallion-like behaviour and 14 per cent with persistent oestrus. All mares had unilateral ovarian enlargement. Six non-pregnant mares had a small and inactive contralateral ovary; the pregnant mare had a single small corpus luteum on the contralateral ovary and was at three-and-a-half months9 gestation. Enlarged ovaries measured 7 cm to an estimated 30 cm in diameter. 28 per cent had a multicystic ultrasound appearance, 57 per cent were dense structures and 14 per cent were of mixed appearance. Mean concentrations of progesterone were

Four cases of omental herniation in cattle

Abstract: Four cases in cattle of omental herniation through an acquired omental rent are described. Clinical signs were indistinguishable from other causes of mechanical ileus and exploratory laparotomy was necessary to establish a diagnosis. In all cases a variably sized portion of jejunal loops was obstructed in an omental rent in the deep layer of the greater omentum. In two cases simple reduction was possible, and in one case incision of the hernial ring was necessary before reduction could be performed. Resection was necessary only in a calf, in which the incarceration was complicated by severe abomasal distension and local peritonitis. In all four cases the omental rent was closed by a serosa-serosa suture. Three cases made an uneventful recovery and returned to normal production, but one of these animals died three months postoperatively from an unknown cause. The calf was euthanased two days postoperatively because of persistent ileus.

First detection of ‘Candidatus Mycoplasma haemolamae’ infection in alpacas in England

Abstract: This is the first report of detection of Candidatus Mycoplasma haemolamae in alpacas in England. The primary case occurred in a three year-old male alpaca in the south-east of England which presented with a history of progressive weight loss, lethargy, swelling of the scrotum and pale mucous membranes. Blood smear examination revealed a moderate, regenerative anaemia, with numerous small basophilic coccoid structures consistent with Candidatus M haemolamae. To confirm the presence of Candidatus M haemolamae, a portion of the 16S rDNA gene was amplified and analysed by denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE). 16S rDNA gene sequencing showed a 99.8 per cent homology with Candidatus M haemolamae sequences deposited in GenBank. Subsequently, a cross-sectional study was carried out to investigate the presence of Candidatus M haemolamae infection in the alpaca herd from which the primary case was detected (n=131). Blood smear examinations and PCR with DGGE were used and compared with a species-specific PCR. The prevalence of infection when PCR positive results were combined was 29 per cent. A substantial agreement between the PCR/DGGE and the species-specific PCR was found (κ=0.86). A significant association was also found between age and infection (P=0.04) while no significant association was found with sex or origin.

Malignant catarrhal fever in kune kune pigs in the UK

Abstract: MALIGNANT catarrhal fever (MCF) is an invariably fatal disease of cattle and other ungulates, including pigs, caused by the gammaherpesviruses alcelaphine herpesvirus type 1 and ovine herpesvirus type 2 (OvHV-2) (Reid 2004, Russell and others 2009). The respective viruses are widely found in wildebeest and sheep, which do not develop clinical signs in response to infection, but which act as reservoir hosts to other susceptible species, with direct, aerosol and fomite contact being implicated in the spread of infection. Two other gammaherpesviruses have also been associated with clinical disease in deer: MCF virus of white-tailed deer ( Odocoileus virginianus ) (Li and others 2000), for which the reservoir host is unknown, and caprine herpesvirus type 2 (CpHV-2), which is found in clinically healthy goats (Li and others 2003, Keel and others 2003, Foyle and others 2009). Infection with all of these viruses in susceptible species causes indistinguishable clinical and pathological disease. Clinical signs are variable but are usually characterised by pyrexia, anorexia, oculonasal discharge, lymphadenopathy and cutaneous, alimentary and nervous signs including keratoconjunctivitis (Radostits and others 2007). Histological lesions consist of necrotising vasculitis, lymphoproliferative changes and erosive/ulcerative mucosal and cutaneous lesions (Brown and others 2007). MCF in pigs is rare, with the majority of reports originating from central European and Scandinavian countries, and more recently from the USA and Brazil (Loken and others 1998, Albini and others 2003, Syrjala and others 2006, Alcaraz and others 2009, Azevedo Costa and others 2010, Gauger and others 2010). This short communication describes a case of MCF in a pig in the UK. Two ailing four-month-old kune kune pigs were presented in late August 2010. The animals belonged to a group of seven pigs from two merged litters of the same age running in a small woodland …

Traumatic perforation of the trachea in two horses caused by orotracheal intubation

Abstract: Two of 348 horses that underwent gastrointestinal surgery under general anaesthesia developed perforations in their tracheas caused by the endotracheal tube. In one case the damage was probably caused when the horse was being moved from the induction room for surgery and excessive traction was exerted on the tube when the anaesthetic machine was moved too far ahead of the horse. The trachea of the other horse may have been damaged when it was intubated.

Rasamsonia argillacea mycosis in a dog: first case in Europe

Abstract: The fungus Rasamsonia argillacea was first described in 1969 (Stolk and others 1969). Its optimal growth temperature is between 37°C and 40°C (Houbraken and others 2012). It has been found in hot environments, but also in soil and air (Yaguchi and others 1994, Yaguchi and others 2005, Houbraken and others 2012). Its geographic distribution is widespread (Yaguchi and others 1994, Yaguchi and others 2005, Grant and others 2009, Barton and others 2010, Giraud and others 2010, De Ravin and others 2011, Machouart and others 2011, Houbraken and others 2012, Valentin and others 2012). R argillacea has only been reported as a clinical pathogen in immunosuppressed human beings: nine with chronic granulomatous disease from the USA (De Ravin and others 2011) and France (Machouart and others 2011), and one Austrian patient with graft-versus-host disease (Valentin and others 2012). The only veterinary case reported was a German shepherd dog from the USA (Grant and others 2009). This report describes the first case of mycosis due to R argillacea in animals in Europe, and the first case in animals or human beings in the UK. A six-year-old male neutered, German shepherd dog, presented with an 18-month progressive history of hind limb stiffness, spinal pain and intermittent dermatitis. Recent polyuria, polydipsia and breathing difficulties were also reported. There was no history of overseas travelling. Treatment with firocoxib (Previcox; Merial) and tramadol hydrochloride (Tramadol; Tillomed Laboratories) did not resolve the signs. Blood work showed mild eosinophilia (1.9×109/l; reference range, 0.1–1.3), hypercalcaemia (1.48 mmol/l; reference range, 1.18–1.40) and hyperphosphataemia (1.91 mmol/l; reference range, 0.80–1.73). Radiographs revealed multiple irregular thoracic and lumbar vertebral endplates compatible with discospondylitis (Fig 1a). A diffuse broncho-interstitial lung pattern, suggestive of pneumonia, and irregular sternebrae endplates were seen on thoracic radiographs (Fig 2). Abdominal …

Retained surgical swabs in 13 dogs

Abstract: To report the signalment, history, clinical signs, diagnostic and surgical findings and outcome in dogs and cats with retained swabs, medical records of dogs and cats that were referred to four referral centres were reviewed. Cases in which a retained surgical swab was identified during surgery at the referral hospital were selected for further study. The signalment, history, clinical signs, diagnostic and surgical findings and outcome in these cases were reviewed. Thirteen dogs with retained surgical swabs were included in the study. Bodyweight ranged from 9 to 45 kg. The initial surgery was a ‘non-routine’ abdominal procedure in seven dogs, ovariohysterectomy in five dogs and perineal hernia repair in one dog. Time from initial surgery to presentation at the referral centre ranged from four days to seven years. Treatment involved major surgery in eight of the 13 dogs. Outcome was excellent in 12 of 13 cases, one dog was euthanased.

QX-like infectious bronchitis virus isolated from proventriculitis in commercial broilers in England

Abstract: This short communication reports on the isolation of QX-like infectious bronchitis virus (IBV) from the proventriculus of broiler chicken in England, and its pathogenesis in specific-pathogen-free (SPF) chicks. This appears to be the first report of the isolation of this virus from the proventriculus of affected chicks in the UK. The virus was first recovered from this tissue in chickens in China in 1996 (YuDong and others 1998), and later, more cases were reported, including in flocks vaccinated against IBV (Yu and others 2001). We received samples of kidney and proventriculus from a flock of 56-days-old commercial broiler chickens, where the submitting field veterinarian reported respiratory signs, increased levels of mortality, a poor feed conversion ratio and suboptimal live body weight gain. At necropsy, proventriculitis and swollen kidneys were reported. Similar tissues were pooled and processed for IBV detection by reverse-transcriptase PCRs (RT-PCR), as previously described (Worthington and others 2008), and virus isolation (VI) were attempted. RT-PCR tests on the supernatant of the pooled tissues of kidneys were negative for IBV, while the proventriculus samples were positive. The proventriculus was negative for avian metapneumovirus (aMPV), Newcastle disease virus (NDV) and infectious bursal …

Caudoventral abdominal lymphangiosarcoma in a cat treated with metronomic chemotherapy

Abstract: A 10-year-old, male neutered domestic shorthair cat was referred for reddish discolouration of its abdominal skin with serosanguineous discharge. The affected skin was bruised, nodular and had fluid-filled cavities. It was painful on palpation. A final diagnosis of lymphangiosarcoma was made by prospero-related homeobox gene-1 (PROX-1) immunohistochemistry. Metronomic chemotherapy treatment was instaured with toceranib phosphate, chlorambucil and meloxicam. Partial remission was achieved at 18 days and stable disease was maintained for 36 days (survival time: 54 days). Afterward, the tumour began to regrow aggressively and the patient developed anorexia; owners elected for euthanasia. Total survival time achieved was 63 days. To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first case report of feline caudoventral abdominal lymphangiosarcoma treated with metronomic chemotherapy.

Osteochondritis dissecans of the humeral head in two small-breed dogs

Abstract: Shoulder pathology consistent with osteochondritis dissecans of the humeral head was diagnosed in two small-breed dogs. In both cases, the diagnosis was made tentatively on the basis of radiography and confirmed by arthroscopy of the affected shoulder joint. Both dogs were successfully treated by surgical removal of a flap of cartilage from the affected area. Clinical and radiographic follow-up was available in both cases. The excised cartilage flaps were examined histopathologically and showed the same characteristics as cartilage flaps from dogs of large breeds prone to developing osteochondritis dissecans of the shoulder. OSTEOCHONDROSIS is a common joint disorder that has been recorded in various species, most commonly human beings, pigs, horses and dogs. It is a disorder of epiphyseal cartilage that manifests in both the articular-epiphyseal cartilage complex and the growth plates (Hill and others 1984). In osteochondrosis, there is a disturbance of endochondral ossification in which the cartilage of the epiphysis is retained rather than converted to subchondral bone (Craig and Riser 1965). This results in thickened, abnormal cartilage that is prone to injury from mechanical stress. Fissures develop and progress, in the more chronic stages of disease, to separation of a segment of cartilage extending from the articular surface to the subchondral bone; this condition is termed osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) (Olsson 1981). Partial separation of the cartilage leads to a hinged cartilage flap, while complete separation progresses into a joint mouse. OCD of the humeral head is frequently identified as a cause of forelimb lameness in dogs. It is observed at the age of four to 10 months in rapidly growing dogs of large and giant breeds (generally, the breeds with individuals weighing more than 20 kg). However, certain large breeds, including the dobermann, rough collie and Siberian husky, are at low risk of developing OCD of the humeral head (Rudd and others 1990). This paper describes the presence of unilateral lesions of OCD in the shoulder joint in two small-breed dogs. In both cases the clinical signs and radiographic, arthroscopic and histological features were similar to those of classical cases of shoulder OCD in large- and giant-breed dogs.

Diagnosis and management of perineurial (Tarlov) cysts in two dogs

Abstract: Case 1. A 10-year-old female intact German shepherd dog, presented with a six-month history of progressive neck pain and ataxia of all four limbs. Neurological examination was consistent with a C1-C5 myelopathy. Atlanto-occipital cisternal cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis was unremarkable. MRI of the neck using a 1.5 T magnet (Echospeed; GE Medical Systems) revealed degeneration of the C5-C6 intervertebral disc with mild dorsal protrusion causing mild right-sided ventro-lateral spinal cord compression; additionally, a 5 mm×6 mm×7 mm oval cystic structure dorsolateral to the spinal cord was noted, causing moderate right-sided dorso-lateral spinal compression at the same level. This lesion was T2 hyperintense, T1 hypointense, T2 FLAIR hypointense (all when compared with the spinal cord) and non-contrast enhancing. A right-sided dorsal laminectomy was performed at C5-C6. The cystic lesion, originating from the dorsal nerve root lateral to the dorsal root ganglion, was fenestrated and a biopsy was obtained, taking care to avoid dorsal nerve root damage. Recovery was uneventful and the dog was neurologically improved at the time of discharge, but was lost to follow-up thereafter. The biopsy consisted of a folded cystic structure consisting of a wall of moderately cellular fibrous tissue showing an orderly arrangement of parallel bundles of fibroblasts. There was no distinct epithelial lining. There was some pale amorphous basophilic material within some parts of the cystic cavities. In places, there were very small numbers of lymphocytes in the cyst wall and little hemosiderin deposition. No nerve fibres or ganglion cells were present. Localisation of the lesion and histopathology were consistent with a perineurial cyst. Case 2. A 10-year-old female intact Labrador retriever, presented with a two-month history of intermittent but progressive non-weight-bearing lameness of the right pelvic limb and pronounced radicular pain. Orthopaedic examination was considered normal. Neurological examination was unremarkable except for marked discomfort on palpation of the lumbo-sacral …

Dwarfism associated with chondrodysplasia in a red deer (Cervus elaphus)

Abstract: OSTEOCHONDROSIS is a developmental orthopaedic disease characterised by the failure of endochondral ossification and premature closure of the growth plates. Chondrodysplasia and dyschondroplasia are descriptive terms implying a primary defect in cartilage maturation affecting especially the limbs and vertebrae (Thompson 2007, Mez 2009). The disease is most common in juveniles where joint effusion and lameness are observed. The tarsocrural and femeropatellar joints are most often affected although any joint may be involved. Shortening of the long bones is common, hence the term dwarfism. In all cases, the condition appears to be associated with an autosomal recessive gene. Chondrodysplasia is well documented in the human literature (Richette and others 2008). It is also recorded in the Dexter and other breeds of cattle (Usha and others 1997) and in several breeds of dog (Breur 1989, Bingel and Sande 1994, Martinez and others 2007). However, despite an extensive literature search, the authors can find no record of chondrodysplasia in wild deer anywhere in the world. Anecdotal reports have been received from wildlife managers in Scotland suggesting that the dwarf red deer have been observed in the wild population. However until now, no pictorial evidence or actual postmortem …

Seroprevalence of Lawsonia intracellularis, Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae and PCV2 in commercial pig farms in Russia

Abstract: Porcine circovirus type 2 (PCV2), Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae and Lawsonia intracellularis are economically important pathogens in modern pig breeding and rearing, worldwide. PCV2 infection can be associated with a wide range of diseases, including post-weaning multisystemic wasting syndrome (PMWS), abortion and reproductive failure, the porcine respiratory disease complex (PRDC) and porcine dermatitis and nephropathy syndrome (PDNS) (Allan and Ellis 2000). Porcine proliferative enteropathy, commonly referred to as ‘ileitis’, caused by L intracellularis , is a common and widespread intestinal infection in pigs. In its acute form, it can result in mortality in finishing pigs and young breeding stock, and in its chronic form, depression and unevenness of growth in growers and finishers (Lawson and Gebhart 2000). M hyopneumoniae is recognised as the causative agent of porcine enzootic pneumonia, a mild, chronic pneumonia commonly complicated by opportunistic infections with other bacteria (Maes and others 1999, Thacker 2006). Pathogens, such as porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus, PCV2, M hyopneumoniae and L intracellularis seriously affect the herd's health status and account for major economic losses (Guerrero 1990, Allan and Ellis 2000, Lawson and Gebhart 2000, Thacker 2006). Although many publications are available on the prevalence of these pathogens in different countries, a limited amount of data are available on the prevalence of M hyopneumoniae in pig farms in Russia (Biruchenkova 2011), and no data are available for the prevalence of L intracellularis in these farms. The aim of this study was to assess the seroprevalence of PCV2, M hyopneumoniae and L intracellularis in …