PESQUISA VETERINÁRIA BRASILEIRA

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Cunha N.C., Fonseca A.H., Rezende J., Rozental T., Favacho A.R.M., Barreira J.D., Massard C.L., Lemos E.R.S. 2009. First identification of natural infection of Rickettsia rickettsii in the Rhipicephalus sanguineus tick, in the State of Rio de Janeiro. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(2):105-108. Curso de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Veterinárias, Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro, Seropédica, RJ 23890-000, Brazil. E-mail: adivaldo@ufrrj.br The Brazilian Spotted Fever (BSF) is a zoonotic disease caused by Rickettsia rickettsii and transmitted by ticks of the genus Amblyomma, more frequently, Amblyomma cajennense. The aim of this paper was to report the first molecular detection of R. rickettsii on R. sanguineus naturally infected in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Ticks were collected from dogs in a rural region of Resende municipality, Rio de Janeiro State, Brazil (22o 30min 9.46sec S, 44o 42min 44.29sec WO), where occurred five human cases of BSF in 2006. The ticks were identified under a stereoscopic microscope and separated in pools by stages, species and sex. DNA extraction was carried out using QIAamp DNA Mini Kit (QIAGEN®). The DNA was submitted to PCR amplification using 04 set of primers: Rr190.70p/Rr190.602n (OmpA, 532bp), BG1-21/BG2-20 (OmpB, 650bp), Tz15/Tz16 (17 kDa protein-encoding gene, 246bp) and RpCS.877p/RpCS.1258n (gltA, 381bp). PCR products were separated by electrophoresis on 1% agarose gels and visualized under ultraviolet light with ethidium bromide. PCR products of the expected sizes were purified by QIAquick® and sequenced by ABI PRISM®. The generated nucleotide sequences were edited with using Bioedit® software and compared with the corresponding homologous sequences available through GenBank, using Discontiguous Mega Blast (http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov). It was confirmed R. rickettsii by sequencing of the material (GenBank FJ356230). The molecular characterization of R. rickettsii in the tick R. sanguineus emphasizes the role of dogs as carriers of ticks from the environment to home. Moreover, this result suggests that there is a considerable chance for active participation of R. sanguineus as one of tick species in the transmission of R. ricketsii to human being in the Brazilian territory.

• Rhipicephalus sanguineus Acari Ixodidae Rickettsia rickettsii molecular analysis Brazilian spotted fever

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Cunha N.C., Fonseca A.H., Rezende J., Rozental T., Favacho A.R.M., Barreira J.D., Massard C.L., Lemos E.R.S. 2009. First identification of natural infection of Rickettsia rickettsii in the Rhipicephalus sanguineus tick, in the State of Rio de Janeiro. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(2):105-108. Curso de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Veterinárias, Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro, Seropédica, RJ 23890-000, Brazil. E-mail: adivaldo@ufrrj.br The Brazilian Spotted Fever (BSF) is a zoonotic disease caused by Rickettsia rickettsii and transmitted by ticks of the genus Amblyomma, more frequently, Amblyomma cajennense. The aim of this paper was to report the first molecular detection of R. rickettsii on R. sanguineus naturally infected in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Ticks were collected from dogs in a rural region of Resende municipality, Rio de Janeiro State, Brazil (22o 30min 9.46sec S, 44o 42min 44.29sec WO), where occurred five human cases of BSF in 2006. The ticks were identified under a stereoscopic microscope and separated in pools by stages, species and sex. DNA extraction was carried out using QIAamp DNA Mini Kit (QIAGEN®). The DNA was submitted to PCR amplification using 04 set of primers: Rr190.70p/Rr190.602n (OmpA, 532bp), BG1-21/BG2-20 (OmpB, 650bp), Tz15/Tz16 (17 kDa protein-encoding gene, 246bp) and RpCS.877p/RpCS.1258n (gltA, 381bp). PCR products were separated by electrophoresis on 1% agarose gels and visualized under ultraviolet light with ethidium bromide. PCR products of the expected sizes were purified by QIAquick® and sequenced by ABI PRISM®. The generated nucleotide sequences were edited with using Bioedit® software and compared with the corresponding homologous sequences available through GenBank, using Discontiguous Mega Blast (http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov). It was confirmed R. rickettsii by sequencing of the material (GenBank FJ356230). The molecular characterization of R. rickettsii in the tick R. sanguineus emphasizes the role of dogs as carriers of ticks from the environment to home. Moreover, this result suggests that there is a considerable chance for active participation of R. sanguineus as one of tick species in the transmission of R. ricketsii to human being in the Brazilian territory.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Pereira I.A., Soares L.C., Coelho S.M.O., Pribul B.R. & Souza M.M.S. 2009. [Susceptibility to azithromycin of bacteria isolated from infectious processes in dogs and cats.] Suscetibilidade à azitromicina de isolados bacterianos de processos infecciosos em cães e gatos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(2):153-156. Departamento de Microbiologia e Imunologia Veterinária, Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro, Seropédica, RJ 23890-000, Brazil. E-mail: miliane@ufrrj.br The susceptibility pattern to azithromycin of bacterial pathogens from various infectious sites, and the in vitro activity and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of azithromycin were studied. Tests such as disc diffusion and broth microdilution detected respectively 48.6% and 55% of resistant Staphylococcus spp., and 55.3% and 72.7% resistant gram-negative rods. MIC50 for S. aureus was 4.0mg/mL, that for S. intermedius was 1.0mg/mL, for coagulase-negative Staphylococcus e”512mg/mL, and for gram-negative rods 256mg/mL. Fifteen percent (9/60) of oxacilin-resistant, multidrug-resistant and mecA-positive Staphylococcus spp. isolates were also azithromycin resistant. The dissemination of multidrug resistant bacteria points out to the need of antimicrobial evaluation activity in order to select the best indicated drug and thus minimizing therapeutic failures in veterinary practice.

• Diseases of dogs and cats bacterial diseases bacterial antibiotic resistance azithromycin

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Pereira I.A., Soares L.C., Coelho S.M.O., Pribul B.R. & Souza M.M.S. 2009. [Susceptibility to azithromycin of bacteria isolated from infectious processes in dogs and cats.] Suscetibilidade à azitromicina de isolados bacterianos de processos infecciosos em cães e gatos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(2):153-156. Departamento de Microbiologia e Imunologia Veterinária, Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro, Seropédica, RJ 23890-000, Brazil. E-mail: miliane@ufrrj.br The susceptibility pattern to azithromycin of bacterial pathogens from various infectious sites, and the in vitro activity and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of azithromycin were studied. Tests such as disc diffusion and broth microdilution detected respectively 48.6% and 55% of resistant Staphylococcus spp., and 55.3% and 72.7% resistant gram-negative rods. MIC50 for S. aureus was 4.0mg/mL, that for S. intermedius was 1.0mg/mL, for coagulase-negative Staphylococcus e”512mg/mL, and for gram-negative rods 256mg/mL. Fifteen percent (9/60) of oxacilin-resistant, multidrug-resistant and mecA-positive Staphylococcus spp. isolates were also azithromycin resistant. The dissemination of multidrug resistant bacteria points out to the need of antimicrobial evaluation activity in order to select the best indicated drug and thus minimizing therapeutic failures in veterinary practice.

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.- Claus M.P., Lunardi M., Alfieri A.F., Sartori D., Fungaro M.H.P & Alfieri A.A. 2009. Identification of the recently described new type of bovine papillomavirus (BPV-8) in a Brazilian beef cattle herd. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(1):25-28. Laboratório de Virologia Animal, Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Centro de Ciências Agrárias, Universidade Estadual de Londrina, Cx. Postal 6001, Campus Universitário, Londrina, PR 86051-990, Brazil. E-mail: alfieri@uel.br Bovine papillomavirus type 8 (BPV-8) was first detected and described in teat warts as well as in healthy teat skin from cattle raised in Japan. The entire viral genome was sequenced in 2007. Additionally, a variant of BPV-8, BPV-8-EB, was also identified from papillomatous lesions of a European bison in Slovakia. In Brazil, despite the relatively common occurrence of BPV infections, the identification and determination of viral types present in cattle is still sporadic. The aim of this study is to report the occurrence of the recently described BPV-8 in Brazil. The virus was identified in a skin warts obtained from a beef cattle herd located in Parana state, southern Brazil. The papilloma had a macular, non-verrucous gross aspect and was located on the dorsal thorax of a cow. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was performed using generic primers for partial amplification of L1 gene. The obtained amplicon (480bp) was cloned and two selected clones were sequenced. The nucleotide sequence was compared to existing papillomaviral genomic sequences, identifying the virus as BPV type 8. This study represents the first report of BPV-8 occurrence in Brazil, what suggests its presence among Brazilian cattle.

• Bovine bovine papillomavirus type 8 BPV-8 cutaneous papillomatosis molecular analysis

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Claus M.P., Lunardi M., Alfieri A.F., Sartori D., Fungaro M.H.P & Alfieri A.A. 2009. Identification of the recently described new type of bovine papillomavirus (BPV-8) in a Brazilian beef cattle herd. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(1):25-28. Laboratório de Virologia Animal, Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Centro de Ciências Agrárias, Universidade Estadual de Londrina, Cx. Postal 6001, Campus Universitário, Londrina, PR 86051-990, Brazil. E-mail: alfieri@uel.br Bovine papillomavirus type 8 (BPV-8) was first detected and described in teat warts as well as in healthy teat skin from cattle raised in Japan. The entire viral genome was sequenced in 2007. Additionally, a variant of BPV-8, BPV-8-EB, was also identified from papillomatous lesions of a European bison in Slovakia. In Brazil, despite the relatively common occurrence of BPV infections, the identification and determination of viral types present in cattle is still sporadic. The aim of this study is to report the occurrence of the recently described BPV-8 in Brazil. The virus was identified in a skin warts obtained from a beef cattle herd located in Parana state, southern Brazil. The papilloma had a macular, non-verrucous gross aspect and was located on the dorsal thorax of a cow. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was performed using generic primers for partial amplification of L1 gene. The obtained amplicon (480bp) was cloned and two selected clones were sequenced. The nucleotide sequence was compared to existing papillomaviral genomic sequences, identifying the virus as BPV type 8. This study represents the first report of BPV-8 occurrence in Brazil, what suggests its presence among Brazilian cattle.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Munhoz A.D., Pereira M.J.S., Flausino W. & Lopes C.W.G. 2009. Neospora caninum seropositivity in cattle breeds in the South Fluminense Paraíba Valley, state of Rio de Janeiro. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(1):29-32. Departamento de Parasitologia Animal, Instituto de Veterinária, Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro, Seropédica, RJ 23890-000, Brazil. E-mail: lopescwg@ufrrj.br The infection by Neospora caninum of different cattle breeds in dairy properties in two municipalities of the South Fluminense Paraíba Valley, state of Rio de Janeiro, was evaluated. Considering a sampling universe of 2,491 cows, blood samples were collected from 563 dairy cows in 57 farms, which were randomically selected in proportion to the number of animals, using a random stratified sampling system. For each property the number of selected cows was proportional to the herd size. Abortion or other reproductive disorders were not considered as criteria for selecting the animals, and seropositivity was determined by indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). A high association (p=0.006) between seropositivity and racial patterns was found. The analysis revealed that in comparison of pure black-and-white Holstein cows versus Zebu (p=0.0028), Holstein cows showed 2.65 times greater odds for seropositivity. In the same way, by comparing black-and-white Holstein versus Zebu + crossbreed Zebu/Holstein (p=0.01), it was noted that there is 2.23 times more chance for seropositivity in Holstein cattle. There were no significant differences concerning the comparison of Holstein cattle versus crossbreed Zebu/Holstein (p=0.08) or Zebu versus crossbreed Zebu/Holstein (p=0.11). This study supports the hypothesis that there is a close association between cattle breeds and the frequency of infection by N. caninum.

• Neospora caninum association cattle breed

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Munhoz A.D., Pereira M.J.S., Flausino W. & Lopes C.W.G. 2009. Neospora caninum seropositivity in cattle breeds in the South Fluminense Paraíba Valley, state of Rio de Janeiro. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(1):29-32. Departamento de Parasitologia Animal, Instituto de Veterinária, Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro, Seropédica, RJ 23890-000, Brazil. E-mail: lopescwg@ufrrj.br The infection by Neospora caninum of different cattle breeds in dairy properties in two municipalities of the South Fluminense Paraíba Valley, state of Rio de Janeiro, was evaluated. Considering a sampling universe of 2,491 cows, blood samples were collected from 563 dairy cows in 57 farms, which were randomically selected in proportion to the number of animals, using a random stratified sampling system. For each property the number of selected cows was proportional to the herd size. Abortion or other reproductive disorders were not considered as criteria for selecting the animals, and seropositivity was determined by indirect enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). A high association (p=0.006) between seropositivity and racial patterns was found. The analysis revealed that in comparison of pure black-and-white Holstein cows versus Zebu (p=0.0028), Holstein cows showed 2.65 times greater odds for seropositivity. In the same way, by comparing black-and-white Holstein versus Zebu + crossbreed Zebu/Holstein (p=0.01), it was noted that there is 2.23 times more chance for seropositivity in Holstein cattle. There were no significant differences concerning the comparison of Holstein cattle versus crossbreed Zebu/Holstein (p=0.08) or Zebu versus crossbreed Zebu/Holstein (p=0.11). This study supports the hypothesis that there is a close association between cattle breeds and the frequency of infection by N. caninum.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Hussni C.A., Dornbusch P.T., Yoshida W.B., Alves A.L.G., Nicolett, J.L.M., Mamprim M.J. & Vulcano L.C. 2009. [Thrombectomy with Fogarty’s catheter as a treatment of induced jugular thrombophlebitis in horses.] Trombectomia com cateter de Fogarty no tratamento da tromboflebite jugular experimental em eqüinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(1):45-51. Departamento de Cirurgia e Anestesiologia Veterinária, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Botucatu, SP 18618-000, Brazil. E-mail: cahussni@fmvz.unesp.br Thrombosis of jugular vein is a common problem in the equine medicine, implying frequently in fatal outcomes. The diagnosis is relatively simple, based on the clinical findings, angiographics images and ultrasonographycs. The therapeutic employed to a large extent of the cases is unsatisfactory. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the applicability of the thrombectomy with Fogarty’s catheter in horses. This technique is routinely used in medicine, in the reestablishment of the vascular perviousness. Ten horses were allocated in two groups (five animals each) and induced to an unilateral thrombosis of right jugular vein, through the surgical access and an application of stenotic suture and glucose 50% injection. In the control group evolution of the thrombophlebitis without any therapeutical intervention was evaluated. The animals of the treatment group were submitted to the thrombectomy with Fogarty’s catheter. General clinical parameters were analyzed at the moment of the preinduction (MPRE), induction of thrombosis (MTI), and at the 10th day of thrombosis evolution (M10). The procedure induced thrombophlebitis that completely obstructed a segment of the jugular vein in all animals. In the animals of the control group, the thrombus totally obstructed the vascular lumen until the end of the period of evaluation, and parotid edema and vascular dilated, cranial to the thrombophlebitis of jugular vein were observed. The treatment group presented all veins pervious in the end of the experiment, with total remission of the clinical signs, confirmed by angiographic and ultrasonographic examinations. So far, it was concluded that the technique of thrombectomy with Fogarty’s catheter was effective in removal of the thrombosis obstruction experimentally induced in the jugular vein.

• Horses jugular vein thrombophlebitis thrombectomy Fogarty’s catheter

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Hussni C.A., Dornbusch P.T., Yoshida W.B., Alves A.L.G., Nicolett, J.L.M., Mamprim M.J. & Vulcano L.C. 2009. [Thrombectomy with Fogarty’s catheter as a treatment of induced jugular thrombophlebitis in horses.] Trombectomia com cateter de Fogarty no tratamento da tromboflebite jugular experimental em eqüinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(1):45-51. Departamento de Cirurgia e Anestesiologia Veterinária, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Botucatu, SP 18618-000, Brazil. E-mail: cahussni@fmvz.unesp.br Thrombosis of jugular vein is a common problem in the equine medicine, implying frequently in fatal outcomes. The diagnosis is relatively simple, based on the clinical findings, angiographics images and ultrasonographycs. The therapeutic employed to a large extent of the cases is unsatisfactory. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the applicability of the thrombectomy with Fogarty’s catheter in horses. This technique is routinely used in medicine, in the reestablishment of the vascular perviousness. Ten horses were allocated in two groups (five animals each) and induced to an unilateral thrombosis of right jugular vein, through the surgical access and an application of stenotic suture and glucose 50% injection. In the control group evolution of the thrombophlebitis without any therapeutical intervention was evaluated. The animals of the treatment group were submitted to the thrombectomy with Fogarty’s catheter. General clinical parameters were analyzed at the moment of the preinduction (MPRE), induction of thrombosis (MTI), and at the 10th day of thrombosis evolution (M10). The procedure induced thrombophlebitis that completely obstructed a segment of the jugular vein in all animals. In the animals of the control group, the thrombus totally obstructed the vascular lumen until the end of the period of evaluation, and parotid edema and vascular dilated, cranial to the thrombophlebitis of jugular vein were observed. The treatment group presented all veins pervious in the end of the experiment, with total remission of the clinical signs, confirmed by angiographic and ultrasonographic examinations. So far, it was concluded that the technique of thrombectomy with Fogarty’s catheter was effective in removal of the thrombosis obstruction experimentally induced in the jugular vein.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Scarpelli L., Lopes W.D.Z., Migani M., Bresciani K.D.S. & Costa A.J. 2009. Toxoplasma gondii in experimentally infected Bos taurus and Bos indicus semen and tissues. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(1):59-64. Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Via de Acesso Prof. Paulo Donatto Castellani s/n, Jaboticabal, SP 14884-900, Brazil. E-mail: wdzlopes@hotmail.com Eighteen young steers were inoculated with Toxoplasma gondii and randomly distributed into three groups of six animals each: GI, 2.5x105 “P” strain oocysts, GII, 5.0x106 “RH” strain tachyzoites, and GIII (Control). Clinical, serological and parasitemia exams were realized. Parasite investigation by bioassay and PCR was realized on semen and fragments of skeletal musculature, lymph nodes, brain, retina, spleen, liver, lung, testicle, epididymis and seminal vesicle. Blood and semen samples were collected on days -2, -1, 1, 3, 5, 7, 14 and weekly thereafter, up to postinfection day (PID) 84. The inoculated steers (GI and GII) presented hyperthermia from PID 3 to 16. Antibodies against T. gondii were detected through the indirect fluorescence antibody test (IFAT) on PID 5 (1:16) in both inoculated groups (oocysts and tachyzoites), reaching peaks of 1:4096 on PID 7. Parasitemia outbursts occurred in all infected bovines, principally from PID 7 to 28, independent of the strain and inoculate used. Bioassays revealed the presence of parasites in semen samples of animals infected with oocysts (GI) and tachyzoites (GII) on several experimental days between PID 7 and 84. Tissue parasitism by T. gondii was diagnosed by bioassay and the PCR technique in several organ and tissue fragments. These findings suggest the possibility of sexual transmission of T. gondii in the bovine species.

• Cattle PCR semen Toxoplasma gondii Apicomplexa

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Scarpelli L., Lopes W.D.Z., Migani M., Bresciani K.D.S. & Costa A.J. 2009. Toxoplasma gondii in experimentally infected Bos taurus and Bos indicus semen and tissues. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(1):59-64. Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Via de Acesso Prof. Paulo Donatto Castellani s/n, Jaboticabal, SP 14884-900, Brazil. E-mail: wdzlopes@hotmail.com Eighteen young steers were inoculated with Toxoplasma gondii and randomly distributed into three groups of six animals each: GI, 2.5x105 “P” strain oocysts, GII, 5.0x106 “RH” strain tachyzoites, and GIII (Control). Clinical, serological and parasitemia exams were realized. Parasite investigation by bioassay and PCR was realized on semen and fragments of skeletal musculature, lymph nodes, brain, retina, spleen, liver, lung, testicle, epididymis and seminal vesicle. Blood and semen samples were collected on days -2, -1, 1, 3, 5, 7, 14 and weekly thereafter, up to postinfection day (PID) 84. The inoculated steers (GI and GII) presented hyperthermia from PID 3 to 16. Antibodies against T. gondii were detected through the indirect fluorescence antibody test (IFAT) on PID 5 (1:16) in both inoculated groups (oocysts and tachyzoites), reaching peaks of 1:4096 on PID 7. Parasitemia outbursts occurred in all infected bovines, principally from PID 7 to 28, independent of the strain and inoculate used. Bioassays revealed the presence of parasites in semen samples of animals infected with oocysts (GI) and tachyzoites (GII) on several experimental days between PID 7 and 84. Tissue parasitism by T. gondii was diagnosed by bioassay and the PCR technique in several organ and tissue fragments. These findings suggest the possibility of sexual transmission of T. gondii in the bovine species.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Furlan F.H., Lucioli J., Borelli V., Fonteque J.H., Stolf L., Traverso S.D. & Gava A. 2009. [Poisoning by closantel in sheep and goats in the State of Santa Catarina, Brazil.] Intoxicação por closantel em ovinos e caprinos no Estado de Santa Catarina. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(1):89-93. Departamento de Medicina Veterinária, Centro de Ciências Agroveterinárias, Universidade do Estado de Santa Catarina, Lages, SC 88520-000, Brazil. E-mail: a2ag@cav.udesc.br Two outbreaks of closantel overdosage in sheep and goat flocks are described. In the first outbreak 12 sheep were affected, 5 of them showed blindness, three sheep died (Sheep 1-3) and two were euthanized 6 months after the onset of clinical manifestation (Sheep 4 and 5). In the second outbreak 26 goats were affected, from which six survived despite blindness and one was euthanized. Clinically the animals showed depression, ataxia, motor incoordination, decreased or absent pupil reflexes. In some animals this clinical picture developed to bilateral blindness, with no reaction to threat and bilateral irresponsive midriasis. In the ophthalmic examination retinal vessel atrophy and hyperreflexia were observed. The histological examination showed myelin edema leading to status spongiosus in the central nervous system and compressive neuropathy of the optic nerve, associated with retinal degeneration and/or atrophy. This report aims to describe the epidemiologic, clinic and pathologic aspects of closantel overdosage in sheep and goats.

• Closantel sheep goats status spongiosus retinal degeneration

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Furlan F.H., Lucioli J., Borelli V., Fonteque J.H., Stolf L., Traverso S.D. & Gava A. 2009. [Poisoning by closantel in sheep and goats in the State of Santa Catarina, Brazil.] Intoxicação por closantel em ovinos e caprinos no Estado de Santa Catarina. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(1):89-93. Departamento de Medicina Veterinária, Centro de Ciências Agroveterinárias, Universidade do Estado de Santa Catarina, Lages, SC 88520-000, Brazil. E-mail: a2ag@cav.udesc.br Two outbreaks of closantel overdosage in sheep and goat flocks are described. In the first outbreak 12 sheep were affected, 5 of them showed blindness, three sheep died (Sheep 1-3) and two were euthanized 6 months after the onset of clinical manifestation (Sheep 4 and 5). In the second outbreak 26 goats were affected, from which six survived despite blindness and one was euthanized. Clinically the animals showed depression, ataxia, motor incoordination, decreased or absent pupil reflexes. In some animals this clinical picture developed to bilateral blindness, with no reaction to threat and bilateral irresponsive midriasis. In the ophthalmic examination retinal vessel atrophy and hyperreflexia were observed. The histological examination showed myelin edema leading to status spongiosus in the central nervous system and compressive neuropathy of the optic nerve, associated with retinal degeneration and/or atrophy. This report aims to describe the epidemiologic, clinic and pathologic aspects of closantel overdosage in sheep and goats.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Gabriel A.L., Kommers G.D., Trost M.E., Barros C.S.L., Pereira D.B., Schwendler S.E. & Santurio J.M. 2008. [Outbreak of cutaneous pythiosis in cattle.] Surto de pitiose cutânea em bovinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(12):583-587. Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, Camobi, Santa Maria, RS 97105-900, Brazil. E-mail: glaukommers@yahoo.com Seventy-six young mixed breed cattle of both sexes, presented multifocal ulcerated nodular cutaneous lesions localized in the medial and lateral aspects of fore and hindlimbs, ventral neck, sternum, and tail. The disease occurred during summer and lesions were observed on areas of the body which were in contact with water of irrigation channels for long periods. Histologically, there were multiple granulomas and pyogranulomas with few negative profiles of hyphae, which were better visualized throughout Grocott methenamine silver stain. Definitive etiologic diagnosis was based on immuno-histochemistry with anti-Pythium insidiosum polyclonal antibody. Additionally, an indirect ELISA test was performed. Bovine cutaneous pythiosis outbreaks are uncommon and, particularly as occurred in the cattle of this report, all affected animals had spontaneous healing within two to three weeks.

• Pythiosis Pythium insidiosum diseases of cattle immunohistochemistry ELISA test pathology

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Gabriel A.L., Kommers G.D., Trost M.E., Barros C.S.L., Pereira D.B., Schwendler S.E. & Santurio J.M. 2008. [Outbreak of cutaneous pythiosis in cattle.] Surto de pitiose cutânea em bovinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(12):583-587. Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, Camobi, Santa Maria, RS 97105-900, Brazil. E-mail: glaukommers@yahoo.com Seventy-six young mixed breed cattle of both sexes, presented multifocal ulcerated nodular cutaneous lesions localized in the medial and lateral aspects of fore and hindlimbs, ventral neck, sternum, and tail. The disease occurred during summer and lesions were observed on areas of the body which were in contact with water of irrigation channels for long periods. Histologically, there were multiple granulomas and pyogranulomas with few negative profiles of hyphae, which were better visualized throughout Grocott methenamine silver stain. Definitive etiologic diagnosis was based on immuno-histochemistry with anti-Pythium insidiosum polyclonal antibody. Additionally, an indirect ELISA test was performed. Bovine cutaneous pythiosis outbreaks are uncommon and, particularly as occurred in the cattle of this report, all affected animals had spontaneous healing within two to three weeks.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Tortelli P.F., Barbosa J.D., Oliveira C.M.C., Dutra M.D., Cerqueira V.D., Oliveira C.A., Riet-Correa F. & Riet-Correa G. 2008. [Poisoning by Ipomoea asarifolia in cattle and sheep in the Marajó Island, Northern Brazil.] Intoxicação por Ipomoea asarifolia em bovinos e ovinos na Ilha de Marajó. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(12):622-626. Central de Diagnóstico Veterinário, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Campus de Castanhal, Universidade Federal do Pará, Rua Maximino Porpino da Silva 1000, Pirapora, Castanhal, PA 68743-080, Brazil. E-mail: griet@ufpa.br To determine plant poisonings occurring on Marajo Island, state of Pará, northern Brazil, 7 farms were visited. All farms had native pastures with low forage availability severely infected by Ipomoea asarifolia. In 5 farms poisoning in sheep by the plant was reported. The disease occurs mainly during the dry period and lambs are more frequently affected than adult sheep. Sheep with clinical signs were observed in 2 farms. In 4 establishments farmers reported the occurrence of I. asarifolia poisoning in cattle. In one farm affected cattle were observed during two visits, one during the dry season and another at the start of the raining season. Deaths are observed mainly in calves. In both species the poisoning occurs every year with variable morbidity and low mortality. One bovine and one sheep with severe clinical signs were euthanized and post-mortem examination was performed. No gross or histologic significant lesions were observed. In all farms buffaloes were raised together with cattle and sheep, and in 3 farms goats were also raised. None of the farmers reported the intoxication in these species.

• Cattle Ipomoea asarifolia sheep toxic plants tremogenic toxins

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Tortelli P.F., Barbosa J.D., Oliveira C.M.C., Dutra M.D., Cerqueira V.D., Oliveira C.A., Riet-Correa F. & Riet-Correa G. 2008. [Poisoning by Ipomoea asarifolia in cattle and sheep in the Marajó Island, Northern Brazil.] Intoxicação por Ipomoea asarifolia em bovinos e ovinos na Ilha de Marajó. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(12):622-626. Central de Diagnóstico Veterinário, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Campus de Castanhal, Universidade Federal do Pará, Rua Maximino Porpino da Silva 1000, Pirapora, Castanhal, PA 68743-080, Brazil. E-mail: griet@ufpa.br To determine plant poisonings occurring on Marajo Island, state of Pará, northern Brazil, 7 farms were visited. All farms had native pastures with low forage availability severely infected by Ipomoea asarifolia. In 5 farms poisoning in sheep by the plant was reported. The disease occurs mainly during the dry period and lambs are more frequently affected than adult sheep. Sheep with clinical signs were observed in 2 farms. In 4 establishments farmers reported the occurrence of I. asarifolia poisoning in cattle. In one farm affected cattle were observed during two visits, one during the dry season and another at the start of the raining season. Deaths are observed mainly in calves. In both species the poisoning occurs every year with variable morbidity and low mortality. One bovine and one sheep with severe clinical signs were euthanized and post-mortem examination was performed. No gross or histologic significant lesions were observed. In all farms buffaloes were raised together with cattle and sheep, and in 3 farms goats were also raised. None of the farmers reported the intoxication in these species.