PESQUISA VETERINÁRIA BRASILEIRA

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Rissi D.R., Pierezan F., Oliveira Filho J.C., Fighera R.A., Irigoyen L.F., Kommers G.D. & Barros C.S.L. 2010. [Diseases of sheep from central Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazil: 361 cases.] Doenças de ovinos da região Central do Rio Grande do Sul: 361 casos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 30(1):21-28. Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900 Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: claudioslbarros@uol.com.br An 18-year (1990-2007) database search in the files of the Laboratory of Veterinary Pathology (LPV) of the Universidade Federal de Santa Maria (UFSM), Rio Grande do Sul state, Brazil was carried out. In this period, 19,476 exams in domestic animals were done. Out of these exams, 6,816 (34.9%) were necropsies and 12,660 (65.1%) were performed in mailed samples from practitioners. Experimental cases were excluded from this study and corresponded to 54 necropsies and 15 histopathologic exams. After the exclusion 354 (5.1%) necropsies and 163 (1.2%) histopathologic exams were found in sheep. Out of these, 265 (74.8%) cases were conclusive in the group of necropsies and 96 (59%) were conclusive in the group of the histopathologic exams. The resulting 361 conclusive cases were grouped according to the etiology: 150 (41.6%) cases of poisoning or toxi-infections; 142 (39.3%) cases of infectious and parasitary diseases; 31 (8.6%) of metabolic and nutritional diseases; 13 (3.6%) cases of neoplasms and neoplasm-like lesions; 7 (1.9%) cases of diseases caused by physical agents; 6 (1.7%) cases of iatrogenic conditions; and 4 (1.1%) of developmental diseases. Eight cases did not fit in any of the above categories and were grouped under the denomination of other conditions. Hemonchosis and poisoning by Nierembergia veitchii were the most prevalent diseases in sheep during the 18 years of this study.

• Diseases of sheep

Abstract in Portuguese:

RESUMO.- Rissi D.R., Pierezan F., Oliveira Filho J.C., Fighera R.A., Irigoyen L.F., Kommers G.D. & Barros C.S.L. 2010. [Diseases of sheep from central Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazil: 361 cases.] Doenças de ovinos da região Central do Rio Grande do Sul: 361 casos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 30(1):21-28. Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900 Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: claudioslbarros@uol.com.br Foram pesquisados os arquivos do Laboratório de Patologia Veterinária (LPV) da Universidade Federal de Santa Maria (UFSM) e revisados os diagnósticos de doenças de ovinos realizados entre 1990 e 2007. No período estudado foram realizados 19.476 exames de animais domésticos. Desses, 6.816 (34,9%) correspondiam a necropsias e 12.660 (65,1%) a exames histopatológicos realizados em materiais enviados por veterinários de campo. Materiais provenientes de experimentos em ovinos foram excluídos deste estudo, sendo obtidas 354 (5,1%) necropsias e 163 (1,2%) exames histopatológicos de ovinos. O diagnóstico foi conclusivo em 265 (74,8%) casos de necropsias e em 96 (59%) casos dos exames histopatológicos, somando 361 casos conclusivos. Esses casos foram divididos em grupos conforme a etiologia: 150 casos (41,6%) de intoxicações e toxiinfecções; 142 casos (39,3%) de doenças infecciosas e parasitárias; 31 casos (8,6%) de doenças metabólicas e nutricionais; 13 casos (3,6%) de neoplasmas e lesões tumoriformes; sete casos (1,9%) de distúrbios causados por agentes físicos; seis casos (1,7%) de distúrbios iatrogênicos; e quatro casos (1,1%) de distúrbios do desenvolvimento. Oito casos (2,2%) foram classificados em outros distúrbios por não se enquadrarem em nenhum dos outros grupos. Hemoncose e intoxicação por Nierembergia veitchii foram as doenças mais importantes para ovinos nesses 18 anos.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Anjos B.L., Irigoyen L.F., Piazer J.V.M., Brum J.S., Fighera R.A. & Barros C.S.L. 2009. [Experimental acute poisoning by bracken fern (Pteridium aquilinum) in cattle.] Intoxicação experimental aguda por samambaia (Pteridium aquilinum) em bovinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(9):753-766. Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, Camobi, Santa Maria, RS 97105-900, Brazil. E-mail: claudioslbarros@uol.com.br This experiment was design to address the following points in relation to the acute poisoning by bracken fern (Pteridium aquilinum) in cattle: 1) the severity of the thrombocytopenia in different stages of the intoxication and its relationship to possible deficits in the secondary hemostasis, 2) the relationship between neutropenia and the morphological signs of septicemia occasionally found at necropsy, and 3) the mechanism of anemia and its relationship with blood loss, medium life of erythrocytes and the progress of the disease. The fresh green upper parts of P. aquilinum were fed to four mixed breed calves with average age of 18 months and weights ranging from 190 to 215 kg. A calf of similar age and weight was kept together with the other four under the same conditions, except for the ingestion of P. aquilinum. The four fern-fed calves died with typical features of acute bracken fern poisoning after being fed with the plant for 53-58 days daily doses of 8.0, 8.6, 10.2, and 10.6g/kg body weight totaling at the end of the experiment, respectively, 59.3%, 63.3%, 47.4%, and 47.5% of bracken fern in relation to their body weight. The disease was characterized by fever up to 42.5°C and varying degrees of hemorrhages observed clinically, at necropsy and on histological examination. Death occurred 6-7 days after the onset of fever. The hematological changes consisted mainly of marked thrombocytopenia and neutropenia. Two of the four affected calves had mild anemia. The deficits in secondary hemostasis were mild in each case. There were no significant changes thus permitting to rule out the role of secondary hemostasis in the pathogenesis of the hemorrhages in the bracken fern poisoning. The measurement of fibrin degradation products in the serum showed conflicting results and did no allow for a solid conclusion regarding the role of disseminated intravascular coagulation in the pathogenesis of the hemorrhages in fern poisoning. The cytology and the histopathology of bone marrow from the four poisoned calves revealed marked decrease in the numbers of hematopoietic cells from the three marrow lineages, which characterizes marrow failure due to aplasia; it was concluded that the events of the primary hemostasis due to thrombocytopenia are responsible for the hemorrhages. In blood culture from three affected calves there was growth of Klebsiella oxytoca, Staphylococcus hyicus and Staphylococcus aureus, indicating that septicemia, facilitated by neutropenia could have a role in the death of cattle acutely poisoned due to the ingestion of P. aquilinum. Additional points of the interest in the acute experimental poisoning by bracken fern in cattle reported here were the development of hematuria and the so called laryngeal form.

• Poisonous plants bracken fern Pteridium aquilinum plant poisoning plantas tóxicas samambaia intoxicação por planta

Abstract in Portuguese:

RESUMO.- Anjos B.L., Irigoyen L.F., Piazer J.V.M., Brum J.S., Fighera R.A. & Barros C.S.L. 2009. [Experimental acute poisoning by bracken fern (Pteridium aquilinum) in cattle.] Intoxicação experimental aguda por samambaia (Pteridium aquilinum) em bovinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(9):753-766. Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, Camobi, Santa Maria, RS 97105-900, Brazil. E-mail: claudioslbarros@uol.com.br Este experimento foi delineado para investigar os seguintes pontos em relação à intoxicação aguda por samambaia (Pteridium aquilinum) em bovinos: 1) a intensidade da trombocitopenia em diferentes momentos da intoxicação e sua relação com possíveis déficits na hemostasia secundária, 2) a relação da neutropenia com as manifestações morfológicas de septicemia ocasionalmente observadas na necropsia, e 3) o mecanismo da anemia e sua relação com a perda de sangue, a vida média eritróide e a evolução da doença. As hastes superiores mais verdes de P. aquilinum foram administradas a quatro bovinos sem raça definida, com idade média de 1,5 ano e pesos entre 190-215 kg. Um bovino de idade e peso semelhantes foi usado como controle e, exceto por não ter recebido P. aquilinum, foi mantido nas mesmas condições que os outros quatro. Os quatro bovinos que receberam a planta morreram com quadro característico da intoxicação aguda por samambaia após receberem durante 53-58 dias, doses diárias de 8,0, 8,6, 10,2 e 10,6g/kg de peso corporal, que totalizaram, ao final do experimento, respectivamente, 112,7, 107,6, 85,7, 90,15 kg da planta, o que corresponde, respectivamente, a 59,3%, 63,3%, 47,4%, 47,5% da planta em relação ao peso dos bovinos. A doença caracterizou-se por febre de até 42,5°C e diversos graus de hemorragias observadas clinicamente, na necropsia e na histopatologia. A morte ocorria 6-7 dias após o início do quadro febril. As alterações hematológicas revelaram trombocitopenia e neutropenia acentuadas. Em dois dos quatro bovinos havia anemia leve. Não houve variações significativas nos tempos de coagulação dos bovinos intoxicados, quando avaliados os fatores de coagulação (secundária), excluindo-se assim a possibilidade da participação de distúrbios da hemostasia secundária na patogênese das hemorragias nessa intoxicação. A determinação dos produtos da degradação da fibrina no soro revelou dados conflitantes, não permitindo concluir se a coagulação intravascular disseminada tem participação na patogênese das hemorragias nessa intoxicação. A citopatologia e histopatologia da medula óssea dos quatro bovinos intoxicados revelaram acentuada diminuição no número de células hematopoéticas das três linhagens medulares, caracterizando insuficiência medular por aplasia; conclui-se que apenas eventos da hemostasia primária devidos a trombocitopenia são responsáveis pelas hemorragias. Na hemocultura de três dos bovinos intoxicados houve crescimento de Klebsiella oxytoca, Staphylococcus hyicus e Staphylococcus aureus, indicando que a septicemia, facilitada pela neutropenia, pode ter participação na causa da morte de bovinos na intoxicação aguda pela ingestão de P. aquilinum. Aspectos adicionais de interesse na reprodução da intoxicação aguda por samambaia em bovinos deste relato incluem o desenvolvimento de hematúria na doença aguda e a apresentação da chamada forma laríngea da doença.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Silva M.C., Fighera R.A., Mazzanti A., Brum J.S., Pierezan F. & Barros C.S.L. 2009 [Neuropathology of canine distemper: 70 cases (2005-2008).] Neuropatologia da cinomose canina: 70 casos (2005-2008). Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(8):643-652. Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900 Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: mctogni@yahoo.com.br The current study was performed to determine the pathology and distribution of lesions in the central nervous system (CNS) of 70 dogs naturally affected by canine distemper. Cases were grouped according to the age of the dogs and classified according to the evolution of the lesions. It was possibly to conclude that: (1) the encephalomyelitis induced by canine distemper virus is more prevalent in puppies and adults; (2) gross lesions in the CNS occur infrequently; (3) the brain is more frequently affected than the spinal cord; (4) the five anatomical sites of the rain more frequently affected are, in decreasing order of frequency, cerebellum, diencephalon, frontal lobe of telencephalon, pons and mesencephalon; (5) the anatomical site more frequently affected in the spinal cord is the cervical (C1-C5) segment; (6) subacute and chronic lesions are more common than acute ones; (7) demyelization is the more prevalent lesion and occur mainly in the cerebellum, pons and diencephalons, usually associated with astrogliosis and non-suppurative inflammation; (8) in most cases with astrogliosis, gemistocytic astrocytes are observed, frequently with syncitia formation; (9) non-suppurative leptomeningitis, malacia and cortical neuronal necrosis are moderately frequent in the brain and less so in the spinal cord; (10) inclusion bodies are frequent in the brain; occur mainly in astrocytes and less frequently in neurons, however independently of the affected cell they occur mainly in the nucleus; (11) a classification of canine distemper encephalitis based in age-related clinical syndromes it is not accurate.

• Neuropathology canine distemper

Abstract in Portuguese:

RESUMO.- Silva M.C., Fighera R.A., Mazzanti A., Brum J.S., Pierezan F. & Barros C.S.L. 2009 [Neuropathology of canine distemper: 70 cases (2005-2008).] Neuropatologia da cinomose canina: 70 casos (2005-2008). Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(8):643-652. Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900 Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: mctogni@yahoo.com.br Este estudo teve como objetivo realizar uma investigação anátomo-patológica detalhada das lesões e sua distribuição no sistema nervoso central (SNC) de cães com cinomose. Foram avaliadas secções padronizadas do encéfalo e da medula espinhal de 70 cães. Os casos foram agrupados de acordo com a idade dos cães e classificados conforme a evolução das lesões. Os resultados permitem concluir que: (1) encefalomielite induzida pelo vírus da cinomose canina é mais prevalente em filhotes e adultos; (2) lesões macroscópicas no SNC ocorrem com baixa freqüência; (3) o encéfalo é mais acometido do que a medula espinhal; (4) as cinco regiões anatômicas mais afetadas do encéfalo são, em ordem decrescente de freqüência, o cerebelo, o diencéfalo, o lobo frontal, a ponte e o mesencéfalo; (5) a região anatômica mais afetada da medula espinhal é o segmento cervical cranial (C1-C5); (6) lesões subagudas e crônicas são mais comuns do que lesões agudas; (7) desmielinização é a lesão mais prevalente e ocorre principalmente no cerebelo, na ponte e no diencéfalo, quase sempre acompanhada de astrogliose e inflamação não-supurativa; (8) na maior parte dos casos em que há astrogliose, observam-se astrócitos gemistocíticos, freqüentemente com formação de sincícios; (9) leptomeningite não-supurativa, malacia e necrose cortical laminar são lesões relativamente freqüentes no encéfalo, mas não na medula espinhal; (10) corpúsculos de inclusão no encéfalo são muito comuns, ocorrem principalmente em astrócitos e com freqüência menor em neurônios; no entanto, independentemente da célula afetada, são vistos predominantemente no núcleo; (11) uma classificação da encefalite na cinomose com base em síndromes clínicas relacionadas com a idade do cão é imprecisa.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Trost M.E., Gabriel A.L., Masuda E.K., Fighera R.A., Irigoyen L.F. & Kommers G.D. 2009. [Clinical, morphologic and immunohistochemical aspects of canine gastrintestinal pythiosis.] Aspectos clínicos, morfológicos e imuno-histoquímicos da pitiose gastrintestinal canina. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(8):673-679. Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, Camobi, Santa Maria, RS 97105-900, Brazil. E-mail: glaukommers@yahoo.com Four suspect and two confirmed cases of gastrointestinal pythiosis were found in a retrospective study of biopsy and necropsy cases of dogs received in the Laboratório de Patologia Veterinária at the Universidade Federal de Santa Maria. The two diagnosed and published cases have had the etiology confirmed by culture and zoosporogenesis induction or by nested-PCR. On this study, the etiologic diagnosis of four suspect cases was confirmed by immunohistochemistry using anti-Pythium insidiosum policlonal antibody. Epidemiology, clinical signs, gross and microscopic lesions, histochemistry, immunohistochemistry, and differential diagnoses are reported and discussed.

• Pythiosis Pythium insidiosum

Abstract in Portuguese:

RESUMO.- Trost M.E., Gabriel A.L., Masuda E.K., Fighera R.A., Irigoyen L.F. & Kommers G.D. 2009. [Clinical, morphologic and immunohistochemical aspects of canine gastrintestinal pythiosis.] Aspectos clínicos, morfológicos e imuno-histoquímicos da pitiose gastrintestinal canina. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(8):673-679. Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, Camobi, Santa Maria, RS 97105-900, Brazil. E-mail: glaukommers@yahoo.com Através de um estudo retrospectivo dos casos de biópsias e necropsias de cães recebidos no Laboratório de Patologia Veterinária da Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, constatou-se a ocorrência de dois casos confirmados e de quatro casos suspeitos de pitiose gastrintestinal canina. Os dois casos diagnosticados e publicados tiveram a etiologia confirmada através da cultura e indução de zoosporogênese ou por nested-PCR. Neste estudo utilizou-se a técnica de imuno-histoquímica com anticorpo policlonal anti-Pythium insidiosum para confirmação da etiologia dos quatro casos suspeitos. A epidemiologia, sinais clínicos, lesões macroscópicas e microscópicas, características histoquímicas e imuno-histoquímicas e diagnósticos diferenciais são relatados e discutidos.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Gabriel A.L., Kommers G.D., Masuda E.K, Fighera R.A., Piazer J.V.M., Barros C.S.L., Martins T.B. & Rosa F.B. 2009. [Clinical and hematological aspects and urinary bladder lesions in chronic spontaneous poisoning by Pteridium aquilinum in cattle.] Aspectos clínicos-hematológicos e lesões vesicais nas formas crônicas de intoxicação espontânea por Pteridium aquilinum em bovinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(7):515-525. Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, Camobi, Santa Maria, RS 97105-900, Brazil. E-mail: glaukommers@yahoo.com Spontaneous cases of chronic poisoning by Pteridium aquilinum in cattle were studied. The clinical forms of the disease were squamous cell carcinoma (SCCs) of the upper digestive tract (UDT) and bovine enzootic hematuria (BEH). The cases were from the midland Region of the Midwest of Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazil, and were submitted to the Laboratório de Patologia Veterinária of the Universidade Federal de Santa Maria. Clinical signs and blood work were evaluated at terminal phase of disease. Cattle with UDT SCCs had progressive weigth loss, ruminal atony, cough, dysphagia, bloating, and regurgitation. In cattle with BEH, hematuria was observed in all cases, followed by progressive weight loss. Non-regenerative anemia was detected in 33.33% of the cattle with UDT SCCs form and in 66.66% of the cattle with BEH form. Changes in white blood count occurred in some cases but drop in lymphocyte numbers was uncommon in both forms of disease. For the morphological study, urinary bladders from 46 cattle with UDT SCCs and 11 cattle with BEH were analyzed. Grossly, 16/46 bladders from the UDT SCCs form had gross lesions (red or pale vesical nodules, hemorrhages, and papilomas; red urine was detected at necropsy of only three cases). In BEH form, the bladder had nodules, large neoplastic masses, red urine, papilomas, and hemorrhages. Pyelonephritis and hydronephrosis were seen in a few cases. Microscopically, in the UDT SCCs form, 44/46 (95.65%) bladders had 22 different types of morphological changes, characterized by neoplastic lesions (5/22) and non-neoplastic lesions (17/22); the latter were subdivided in non-neoplastic epithelial changes (6/17), general changes of the lamina propria (6/17), and inflammatory changes (5/17). The bladder changes in BEH form were of 19 different types, characterized by neoplastic lesions (5/19) and non-neoplastic lesions (14/19), which were subdivided in non-neoplastic epitelial changes (9/14), general changes of the lamina propria (3/14), and inflammatory changes (2/14). In BEH, mesenchymal neoplasms were more observed than epithelial ones, and most of them were malignant. Immunohistochemistry was utilized to characterize the histogenesis of poorly differentiated neoplasms. In conclusion, the morphological study demonstrated that urinary bladder lesions identical to the those seen in cattle with BEH, are very often present in cattle with the UDT SCCs form.

• Diseases of cattle poisonous plants; Pteridium aquilinum bovine enzootic hematuria squamous cell carcinomas of the digestive system veterinary pathology

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Gabriel A.L., Kommers G.D., Masuda E.K, Fighera R.A., Piazer J.V.M., Barros C.S.L., Martins T.B. & Rosa F.B. 2009. [Clinical and hematological aspects and urinary bladder lesions in chronic spontaneous poisoning by Pteridium aquilinum in cattle.] Aspectos clínicos-hematológicos e lesões vesicais nas formas crônicas de intoxicação espontânea por Pteridium aquilinum em bovinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(7):515-525. Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, Camobi, Santa Maria, RS 97105-900, Brazil. E-mail: glaukommers@yahoo.com Spontaneous cases of chronic poisoning by Pteridium aquilinum in cattle were studied. The clinical forms of the disease were squamous cell carcinoma (SCCs) of the upper digestive tract (UDT) and bovine enzootic hematuria (BEH). The cases were from the midland Region of the Midwest of Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazil, and were submitted to the Laboratório de Patologia Veterinária of the Universidade Federal de Santa Maria. Clinical signs and blood work were evaluated at terminal phase of disease. Cattle with UDT SCCs had progressive weigth loss, ruminal atony, cough, dysphagia, bloating, and regurgitation. In cattle with BEH, hematuria was observed in all cases, followed by progressive weight loss. Non-regenerative anemia was detected in 33.33% of the cattle with UDT SCCs form and in 66.66% of the cattle with BEH form. Changes in white blood count occurred in some cases but drop in lymphocyte numbers was uncommon in both forms of disease. For the morphological study, urinary bladders from 46 cattle with UDT SCCs and 11 cattle with BEH were analyzed. Grossly, 16/46 bladders from the UDT SCCs form had gross lesions (red or pale vesical nodules, hemorrhages, and papilomas; red urine was detected at necropsy of only three cases). In BEH form, the bladder had nodules, large neoplastic masses, red urine, papilomas, and hemorrhages. Pyelonephritis and hydronephrosis were seen in a few cases. Microscopically, in the UDT SCCs form, 44/46 (95.65%) bladders had 22 different types of morphological changes, characterized by neoplastic lesions (5/22) and non-neoplastic lesions (17/22); the latter were subdivided in non-neoplastic epithelial changes (6/17), general changes of the lamina propria (6/17), and inflammatory changes (5/17). The bladder changes in BEH form were of 19 different types, characterized by neoplastic lesions (5/19) and non-neoplastic lesions (14/19), which were subdivided in non-neoplastic epitelial changes (9/14), general changes of the lamina propria (3/14), and inflammatory changes (2/14). In BEH, mesenchymal neoplasms were more observed than epithelial ones, and most of them were malignant. Immunohistochemistry was utilized to characterize the histogenesis of poorly differentiated neoplasms. In conclusion, the morphological study demonstrated that urinary bladder lesions identical to the those seen in cattle with BEH, are very often present in cattle with the UDT SCCs form.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Pierezan F., Rissi D.R., Rech R.R., Fighera R.A. Brum J.S. & Barros C.S.L. 2009. [Necropsy findings related to the cause of death in 335 horses: 1968-2007.] Achados de necropsia relacionados com a morte de 335 eqüinos: 1968-2007. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(3):275-280. Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900 Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: claudioslbarros@uol.com.br The necropsy reports of 335 horses necropsied at the LPV-UFSM between 1968-2007 were reviewed in order to determine the necropsy findings related with cause of death or reason for euthanasia. The distribution of these findings by organ system were as follows: digestive (79/335 [23.6%]), striated muscle and skeleton (47/335 [14.0%]), nervous (37/335 [11.0%]), respiratory (35/335 [10.4%]), integument (31/335 [9.3%]), hematopoietic (24/335 [7.2%]), cardiovascular (13/335 [3.9%]), reproductive (12/335 [3.5%]), urinary (7/335 [2.1%]), and endocrine (3/335 [0.9%]). The cause of death was not possible to be determined in 47 (14.0%) necropsied horses. Displacements of the intestines (17/79 [21.5%]) were the main findings in digestive system, followed by obstruction and impactation (14/79 [17.7%]). Torsion were the type of displacement more frequently observed in the intestines (14/17 [82.4%]). Among those the more prevalent affected the small intestine (7/14 [50%]). Most horses dying from fractured bones were 1-5-year-old. The most prevalent diseases in the nervous system were leukoencephalo-malacia and trypanosomiasis, whereas respiratory depression due to anesthesia was the leading cause of death related to the respiratory system. Equine infectious anemia was the most diagnosed infectious disease and the main reason leading to euthanasia.

• Diseases of horses causes of death epidemiology pathology

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Pierezan F., Rissi D.R., Rech R.R., Fighera R.A. Brum J.S. & Barros C.S.L. 2009. [Necropsy findings related to the cause of death in 335 horses: 1968-2007.] Achados de necropsia relacionados com a morte de 335 eqüinos: 1968-2007. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(3):275-280. Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900 Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: claudioslbarros@uol.com.br The necropsy reports of 335 horses necropsied at the LPV-UFSM between 1968-2007 were reviewed in order to determine the necropsy findings related with cause of death or reason for euthanasia. The distribution of these findings by organ system were as follows: digestive (79/335 [23.6%]), striated muscle and skeleton (47/335 [14.0%]), nervous (37/335 [11.0%]), respiratory (35/335 [10.4%]), integument (31/335 [9.3%]), hematopoietic (24/335 [7.2%]), cardiovascular (13/335 [3.9%]), reproductive (12/335 [3.5%]), urinary (7/335 [2.1%]), and endocrine (3/335 [0.9%]). The cause of death was not possible to be determined in 47 (14.0%) necropsied horses. Displacements of the intestines (17/79 [21.5%]) were the main findings in digestive system, followed by obstruction and impactation (14/79 [17.7%]). Torsion were the type of displacement more frequently observed in the intestines (14/17 [82.4%]). Among those the more prevalent affected the small intestine (7/14 [50%]). Most horses dying from fractured bones were 1-5-year-old. The most prevalent diseases in the nervous system were leukoencephalo-malacia and trypanosomiasis, whereas respiratory depression due to anesthesia was the leading cause of death related to the respiratory system. Equine infectious anemia was the most diagnosed infectious disease and the main reason leading to euthanasia.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Souza T.M., Fighera R.A., Schmidt C., Réquia A.H., Brum J.S., Martins T.B. & Barros C.S.L. 2009. [Prevalence of non-tumorous canine dermatopathies in dogs from the municipality of Santa Maria, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil (2005-2008).] Prevalência das dermatopatias não-tumorais em cães do município de Santa Maria, Rio Grande do Sul (2005-2008). Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(2):157-162. Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900 Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: teitsouza@yahoo.com.br The current study was aimed at determine the prevalence of non-tumorous canine dermatopathies affecting dogs from the municipality of Santa Maria, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. From March 2005 to June de 2008, the authors followed-up canine dermatological cases from two sources: those referred to the Dermatology Sector of the Veterinary Teaching Hospital at the Universidade Federal de Santa Maria and those from a private practice. During this period 480 dogs with dermatological problems were examined; in 393 (81.9%) it was possible to establish a definitive diagnosis and in 87 (18.1%) the diagnosis was inconclusive. Four hundred and twenty four primary diagnosis and 78 secondary diagnosis were performed in the 393 dogs with conclusive diagnosis, totaling 502 diagnosis. The distribution of the diagnosis according to the categories of diagnosed dermatopathies was as follows: Allergic (190/502 [37.8%]), bacterial (103/502 [20.5%]), parasitic (97/502 [19.3%]), environmental (28/502 [5,6%]), mycotic (20/502 [4.0%]), endocrine (13/502 [2.6%]), keratinization disturbances (11/502 [2.2%]), psychogenic (9/502 [1.8%]), acquired alopecias (6/502 [1.2%]), autoimmune (6/502 [1.2%]), inherited (6/502 [1.2%]), pigmentary disturbances (1/502 [0.2%], nutritional (1/502 [0.2%]), and sundry conditions (11/502 [2.2%]). In general, the ten most frequently diagnosed non-tumorous dermatopathies in decreasing order of frequency were: Atopy, flea bite allergic dermatitis, bacterial folliculitis, demodectic mange, deep bacterial folliculitis/furunculosis, sarcoptic mange, myiasis, food allergy, traumatic pyoderma, and Malassezia dermatitis. These 10 conditions together made up approximately for three quarters of all canine skin diseases diagnosed in the current study.

• Diseases of dogs skin diseases dermatology dermatopathology

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Souza T.M., Fighera R.A., Schmidt C., Réquia A.H., Brum J.S., Martins T.B. & Barros C.S.L. 2009. [Prevalence of non-tumorous canine dermatopathies in dogs from the municipality of Santa Maria, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil (2005-2008).] Prevalência das dermatopatias não-tumorais em cães do município de Santa Maria, Rio Grande do Sul (2005-2008). Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(2):157-162. Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900 Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: teitsouza@yahoo.com.br The current study was aimed at determine the prevalence of non-tumorous canine dermatopathies affecting dogs from the municipality of Santa Maria, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. From March 2005 to June de 2008, the authors followed-up canine dermatological cases from two sources: those referred to the Dermatology Sector of the Veterinary Teaching Hospital at the Universidade Federal de Santa Maria and those from a private practice. During this period 480 dogs with dermatological problems were examined; in 393 (81.9%) it was possible to establish a definitive diagnosis and in 87 (18.1%) the diagnosis was inconclusive. Four hundred and twenty four primary diagnosis and 78 secondary diagnosis were performed in the 393 dogs with conclusive diagnosis, totaling 502 diagnosis. The distribution of the diagnosis according to the categories of diagnosed dermatopathies was as follows: Allergic (190/502 [37.8%]), bacterial (103/502 [20.5%]), parasitic (97/502 [19.3%]), environmental (28/502 [5,6%]), mycotic (20/502 [4.0%]), endocrine (13/502 [2.6%]), keratinization disturbances (11/502 [2.2%]), psychogenic (9/502 [1.8%]), acquired alopecias (6/502 [1.2%]), autoimmune (6/502 [1.2%]), inherited (6/502 [1.2%]), pigmentary disturbances (1/502 [0.2%], nutritional (1/502 [0.2%]), and sundry conditions (11/502 [2.2%]). In general, the ten most frequently diagnosed non-tumorous dermatopathies in decreasing order of frequency were: Atopy, flea bite allergic dermatitis, bacterial folliculitis, demodectic mange, deep bacterial folliculitis/furunculosis, sarcoptic mange, myiasis, food allergy, traumatic pyoderma, and Malassezia dermatitis. These 10 conditions together made up approximately for three quarters of all canine skin diseases diagnosed in the current study.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Souza T.M., Fighera R.A., Kommers G.D. & Barros C.S.L. 2009. [Histological aspects of canine and feline skin as a tool for dermatopathology.] Aspectos histológicos da pele de cães e gatos como ferramenta para dermatopatologia. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(2):177-190. Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900 Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: teitsouza@yahoo.com.br Skin morphology differs among different animal species and most part of our knowledge on the morphology of human skin can not be applied for dogs and cats. Thus, the understanding of the basic morphologic aspects of the skin from different species is an invaluable tool for every professional in the field of veterinary pathology. Furthermore, the ability to recognize the main similarities and main differences in the skin morphology from different anatomical signs within the same animal is fundamental to the practice dermatopathology. This paper reviews the major aspects of the microscopic anatomy of the skin in dogs and cats, aiming to help those veterinary pathologists that are starting in the field of dermatopathology, since only with the knowledge of the peculiarities of this organ it will be possible to apply the diagnostic approach through lesion patterns.

• Morphology histology pathology dermatopathology skin dogs and cats

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Souza T.M., Fighera R.A., Kommers G.D. & Barros C.S.L. 2009. [Histological aspects of canine and feline skin as a tool for dermatopathology.] Aspectos histológicos da pele de cães e gatos como ferramenta para dermatopatologia. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(2):177-190. Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900 Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: teitsouza@yahoo.com.br Skin morphology differs among different animal species and most part of our knowledge on the morphology of human skin can not be applied for dogs and cats. Thus, the understanding of the basic morphologic aspects of the skin from different species is an invaluable tool for every professional in the field of veterinary pathology. Furthermore, the ability to recognize the main similarities and main differences in the skin morphology from different anatomical signs within the same animal is fundamental to the practice dermatopathology. This paper reviews the major aspects of the microscopic anatomy of the skin in dogs and cats, aiming to help those veterinary pathologists that are starting in the field of dermatopathology, since only with the knowledge of the peculiarities of this organ it will be possible to apply the diagnostic approach through lesion patterns.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Anjos B.L., Irigoyen L.F., Fighera R.A., Gomes A.D., Kommers G.D & Barros C.S.L. 2008. [Acute poisoning by bracken fern (Pteridium aquilinum) in cattle in central Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.] Intoxicação aguda por samambaia (Pteridium aquilinum) em bovinos na Região Central do Rio Grande do Sul. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(10):501-507. Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900, Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: claudioslbarros@uol.com.br Cases of acute poisoning by bracken fern (Pteridium aquilinum) in cattle from 10 small farms of seven municipalities of the Central Region of Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazil, were reviewed. The study encompassed 6,256 necropsies of cattle considering a 43-year period and included 15 necropsies of cattle dying from acute bracken poisoning. Morbidity and mortality were 17.9% and lethality was virtually 100%. In 40% of the farms the disease occurred in small outbreaks affecting several cattle per farm and in 60% only one bovine was affected in each farm. Main clinical signs include fever (40-42°C), apathy, drooling, and hemorrhages; the latter were mainly from the gums, nostrils, and gastrointestinal tract. Multiple petechiae were observed in several mucosae and in the skin. Occasionally hematuria and blood in the milk were reported. The disease was invariably fatal after a course of approximately two days. Hematological changes included severe neutropenia, non-regenerative normocytic normochromic anemia and thrombocytopenia. Necropsy findings include hemorrhages o varying degrees in several organs and infarcts in the liver. Both hemorrhages and hepatic infarcts were confirmed histologically; clusters of bacterial rods and thrombosed vessels were associated with the infarcts. Marked bone marrow aplasia was a consistent finding in the four cases in which the marrow was evaluated.

• Diseases of cattle poisonous plants Pteridium aquilinum bracken fern hemorrhagic disorders pathology

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Anjos B.L., Irigoyen L.F., Fighera R.A., Gomes A.D., Kommers G.D & Barros C.S.L. 2008. [Acute poisoning by bracken fern (Pteridium aquilinum) in cattle in central Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.] Intoxicação aguda por samambaia (Pteridium aquilinum) em bovinos na Região Central do Rio Grande do Sul. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(10):501-507. Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900, Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: claudioslbarros@uol.com.br Cases of acute poisoning by bracken fern (Pteridium aquilinum) in cattle from 10 small farms of seven municipalities of the Central Region of Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazil, were reviewed. The study encompassed 6,256 necropsies of cattle considering a 43-year period and included 15 necropsies of cattle dying from acute bracken poisoning. Morbidity and mortality were 17.9% and lethality was virtually 100%. In 40% of the farms the disease occurred in small outbreaks affecting several cattle per farm and in 60% only one bovine was affected in each farm. Main clinical signs include fever (40-42°C), apathy, drooling, and hemorrhages; the latter were mainly from the gums, nostrils, and gastrointestinal tract. Multiple petechiae were observed in several mucosae and in the skin. Occasionally hematuria and blood in the milk were reported. The disease was invariably fatal after a course of approximately two days. Hematological changes included severe neutropenia, non-regenerative normocytic normochromic anemia and thrombocytopenia. Necropsy findings include hemorrhages o varying degrees in several organs and infarcts in the liver. Both hemorrhages and hepatic infarcts were confirmed histologically; clusters of bacterial rods and thrombosed vessels were associated with the infarcts. Marked bone marrow aplasia was a consistent finding in the four cases in which the marrow was evaluated.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Fighera R.A., Souza T.M., Silva M.C., Brum J.S., Graça D.L., Kommers G.D., Irigoyen L.F. & Barros C.S.L. 2008. [Causes of death and reasons for euthanasia in dogs from the midland region of the Midwest of Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazil (1965-2004).] Causas de morte e razões para eutanásia de cães da Mesorregião do Centro Ocidental Rio-Grandense (1965-2004). Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(4):223-230. Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900 Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: anemiaveterinaria@yahoo.com.br The main objective of this study was to investigate the prevalence of diseases culminating with death or motivating euthanasia of dogs from the midland region of the Midwest of Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazil. The necropsy files of the Laboratório de Patologia Veterinária (LPV) of the Universidade Federal de Santa Maria (UFSM) were accessed and necropsy protocols of dogs necropsied between January 1965 and December 2004 were reviewed. During this period 4,844 reports of canine necropsies were filed at the LPV-UFSM. The case distribution in relation to the disease categories diagnosed was as follows: infectious and parasitic diseases (1,693 [35.0%]); neoplasms (378 [7.8%]); disorders caused by physical agents (369 [7.6%]); degenerative diseases (342 [7.1%]); poisonings and toxinfections (112 [2.3%]); euthanasia due to convenience (101 [2.1%]); metabolic and endocrinological diseases (97 [2.0%]); iatrogenic disorders (83 [1.7%]); developmental disorders (25 [0.5%]); immune mediate diseases (10 [0.2%]); and nutritional disorders (6 [0.1%]). Other disorders, including multifactorial or idiopathic diseases contributed 80 (1.6%) cases. In 1,548 (32.0%) out of the 4,844 cases it was not possible to establish either cause of death or reason for euthanasia. Infectious and parasitic diseases (mainly canine distemper, parvoviral enteritis and intestinal parasitism), neoplasia (mainly mammary neoplasms and lymphoma), disorders caused by physical agents (mainly accidents caused by automotive vehicles) and degenerative diseases (mainly chronic renal failure, cirrhosis, and congestive heart failure) were the main disease categories causing death or motivating euthanasia in dogs of this midland region. However, when cases were evaluated in relation with the age of the dog, the disease prevalence differed. The main causes of death in puppies were infectious and parasitic disease (mainly parvoviral enteritis, canine distemper, and intestinal parasitism). In adult dogs the most important causes of death were canine distemper, neoplasia and trauma. In age dogs, approximately half of the deaths could be attributed to neoplasia and degenerative disease.

• Diseases of dogs causes of death reasons for euthanasia

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Fighera R.A., Souza T.M., Silva M.C., Brum J.S., Graça D.L., Kommers G.D., Irigoyen L.F. & Barros C.S.L. 2008. [Causes of death and reasons for euthanasia in dogs from the midland region of the Midwest of Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazil (1965-2004).] Causas de morte e razões para eutanásia de cães da Mesorregião do Centro Ocidental Rio-Grandense (1965-2004). Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(4):223-230. Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900 Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: anemiaveterinaria@yahoo.com.br The main objective of this study was to investigate the prevalence of diseases culminating with death or motivating euthanasia of dogs from the midland region of the Midwest of Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazil. The necropsy files of the Laboratório de Patologia Veterinária (LPV) of the Universidade Federal de Santa Maria (UFSM) were accessed and necropsy protocols of dogs necropsied between January 1965 and December 2004 were reviewed. During this period 4,844 reports of canine necropsies were filed at the LPV-UFSM. The case distribution in relation to the disease categories diagnosed was as follows: infectious and parasitic diseases (1,693 [35.0%]); neoplasms (378 [7.8%]); disorders caused by physical agents (369 [7.6%]); degenerative diseases (342 [7.1%]); poisonings and toxinfections (112 [2.3%]); euthanasia due to convenience (101 [2.1%]); metabolic and endocrinological diseases (97 [2.0%]); iatrogenic disorders (83 [1.7%]); developmental disorders (25 [0.5%]); immune mediate diseases (10 [0.2%]); and nutritional disorders (6 [0.1%]). Other disorders, including multifactorial or idiopathic diseases contributed 80 (1.6%) cases. In 1,548 (32.0%) out of the 4,844 cases it was not possible to establish either cause of death or reason for euthanasia. Infectious and parasitic diseases (mainly canine distemper, parvoviral enteritis and intestinal parasitism), neoplasia (mainly mammary neoplasms and lymphoma), disorders caused by physical agents (mainly accidents caused by automotive vehicles) and degenerative diseases (mainly chronic renal failure, cirrhosis, and congestive heart failure) were the main disease categories causing death or motivating euthanasia in dogs of this midland region. However, when cases were evaluated in relation with the age of the dog, the disease prevalence differed. The main causes of death in puppies were infectious and parasitic disease (mainly parvoviral enteritis, canine distemper, and intestinal parasitism). In adult dogs the most important causes of death were canine distemper, neoplasia and trauma. In age dogs, approximately half of the deaths could be attributed to neoplasia and degenerative disease.