PESQUISA VETERINÁRIA BRASILEIRA

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Pigatto J.A.T., Cerva C., Freire C.D., Abib F.C., Bellini L.P., Barros P.S.M. & Laus J.L. 2008. Morphological analysis of the corneal endothelium in eyes of dogs using specular microscopy. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(9):427-430. Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Av. Bento Gonçalves 9090, Porto Alegre, RS 91540-000, Brazil. E-mail: pigatto@ufrgs.br Both healthy eyes of 10 six-year-old male and female mongrel dogs were studied. With a contact specular microscope the corneal endothelium was examined. Endothelial cells were analyzed in the central and peripheral cornea. Morphological analysis with regard to polymegathism and pleomorphism was performed. Three images of each region with at least 100 cells were obtained. The analysis showed that polygonal cells formed a mosaic-like pattern uniform in size and shape. The predominant number of cells was hexagonal. The polymegathism index was 0.22. The study demonstrates that the morphology of the normal corneal endothelial cells of dogs is similar to that found in the human cornea.

• Dogs corneal endothelium morphology specular microscopy Canis familiaris

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Pigatto J.A.T., Cerva C., Freire C.D., Abib F.C., Bellini L.P., Barros P.S.M. & Laus J.L. 2008. Morphological analysis of the corneal endothelium in eyes of dogs using specular microscopy. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(9):427-430. Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Av. Bento Gonçalves 9090, Porto Alegre, RS 91540-000, Brazil. E-mail: pigatto@ufrgs.br Both healthy eyes of 10 six-year-old male and female mongrel dogs were studied. With a contact specular microscope the corneal endothelium was examined. Endothelial cells were analyzed in the central and peripheral cornea. Morphological analysis with regard to polymegathism and pleomorphism was performed. Three images of each region with at least 100 cells were obtained. The analysis showed that polygonal cells formed a mosaic-like pattern uniform in size and shape. The predominant number of cells was hexagonal. The polymegathism index was 0.22. The study demonstrates that the morphology of the normal corneal endothelial cells of dogs is similar to that found in the human cornea.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Milani J.F., Barros P.S.M., Guerra J.L. & Brooks D.E. 2008. Effects of topical 0.2% Cyclosporine A on corneal neovascularization induced by xenologous amniotic membrane implantation into a corneal stroma micropocket of rats. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(8):379-386. Laboratório de Investigação em Oftalmologia Comparada, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Prof. Orlando Marques de Paiva 87, São Paulo, SP 05508-900, Brazil. E-mail: pauloeye@usp.br The objective of the study was to evaluate the topical effects of 0.2% Cyclosporine A (CsA) on corneal neovascularization of rats following surgical implantation of equine amniotic membrane into a corneal stroma micropocket. The implantation of xenologous amniotic membrane was performed bilaterally in 90 rats. In the same day of the surgery each right eye started receiving topical CsA twice a day. The left eye received no medication and served as a control. The evaluation of corneal neovascularization was performed by computerized image analysis and histopathological evaluation at 1, 3, 7, 15, 30 and 60 days postoperatively. For the image analysis 10 animals were used per time period, and for the histopathological examination, five animals were used per time period. Image analysis found that corneal neovascularization began on the 3rd postoperative day, reached its peak on the 7th day, and then progressively and rapidly decreased. Statistic analysis indicated that neovascularization of the CsA treated eye on the 7th day was significantly higher than that observed in untreated eyes. On the 30th day, however, this pattern was reversed with the neovascularization observed in the CsA treated eyes declining to the low levels observed on the 3rd day. The degree of neovascularization in the untreated eyes on the 30th day declined to the baseline levels found on day 3 at the 60th day. Histopathological analysis indicated that deposition of collagen in the implanted tissue was completed by the 15th day. Therefore, we concluded that (1) equine amniotic membrane in rat corneal stroma produced an intense neovascularization until the 15th day postoperatively and then regressed, (2) deposition of collagen of the implanted tissue was completed on the 15th day postoperatively, and (3) use of CsA was associated with increase in the corneal neovascularization initially, followed by a quick and intense regression.

• Amniotic membrane cyclosporine cornea veterinary ophthalmology

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Milani J.F., Barros P.S.M., Guerra J.L. & Brooks D.E. 2008. Effects of topical 0.2% Cyclosporine A on corneal neovascularization induced by xenologous amniotic membrane implantation into a corneal stroma micropocket of rats. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(8):379-386. Laboratório de Investigação em Oftalmologia Comparada, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Prof. Orlando Marques de Paiva 87, São Paulo, SP 05508-900, Brazil. E-mail: pauloeye@usp.br The objective of the study was to evaluate the topical effects of 0.2% Cyclosporine A (CsA) on corneal neovascularization of rats following surgical implantation of equine amniotic membrane into a corneal stroma micropocket. The implantation of xenologous amniotic membrane was performed bilaterally in 90 rats. In the same day of the surgery each right eye started receiving topical CsA twice a day. The left eye received no medication and served as a control. The evaluation of corneal neovascularization was performed by computerized image analysis and histopathological evaluation at 1, 3, 7, 15, 30 and 60 days postoperatively. For the image analysis 10 animals were used per time period, and for the histopathological examination, five animals were used per time period. Image analysis found that corneal neovascularization began on the 3rd postoperative day, reached its peak on the 7th day, and then progressively and rapidly decreased. Statistic analysis indicated that neovascularization of the CsA treated eye on the 7th day was significantly higher than that observed in untreated eyes. On the 30th day, however, this pattern was reversed with the neovascularization observed in the CsA treated eyes declining to the low levels observed on the 3rd day. The degree of neovascularization in the untreated eyes on the 30th day declined to the baseline levels found on day 3 at the 60th day. Histopathological analysis indicated that deposition of collagen in the implanted tissue was completed by the 15th day. Therefore, we concluded that (1) equine amniotic membrane in rat corneal stroma produced an intense neovascularization until the 15th day postoperatively and then regressed, (2) deposition of collagen of the implanted tissue was completed on the 15th day postoperatively, and (3) use of CsA was associated with increase in the corneal neovascularization initially, followed by a quick and intense regression.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Balda A.C., Ikeda M.O., Larsson Junior C.E., Michalany N.S. & Larsson C.E. 2008. [Canine Pemphigus foliaceus: A retrospective study of 43 clinical cases and therapy (2000-2005).] Pênfigo foliáceo canino: estudo retrospectivo de 43 casos clínicos e terapia (2000-2005). Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(8):387-392. Departamento de Clínica Médica, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Prof. Dr. Orlando Marques de Paiva 87, São Paulo, SP 05508-270. Brazil. E-mail: anabalda@terra.com.br From August 2000 to July 2005 were attended 43 cases of canine Pemphigus foliaceous (PF) by the Dermatology Service of the Veterinary Teaching Hospital, University of São Paulo. The aim of the present study was to update the records referred to sex, breed, age, type and location of the lesions, clinical signs, and response to treatments with prednisone or combination with prednisone and azathioprine, and also to demonstrate the increase of occurrence of PF compared with the former series (1986-2000) observed in the same Service.

• Pemphigus foliaceous; dogs therapy

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Balda A.C., Ikeda M.O., Larsson Junior C.E., Michalany N.S. & Larsson C.E. 2008. [Canine Pemphigus foliaceus: A retrospective study of 43 clinical cases and therapy (2000-2005).] Pênfigo foliáceo canino: estudo retrospectivo de 43 casos clínicos e terapia (2000-2005). Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(8):387-392. Departamento de Clínica Médica, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Prof. Dr. Orlando Marques de Paiva 87, São Paulo, SP 05508-270. Brazil. E-mail: anabalda@terra.com.br From August 2000 to July 2005 were attended 43 cases of canine Pemphigus foliaceous (PF) by the Dermatology Service of the Veterinary Teaching Hospital, University of São Paulo. The aim of the present study was to update the records referred to sex, breed, age, type and location of the lesions, clinical signs, and response to treatments with prednisone or combination with prednisone and azathioprine, and also to demonstrate the increase of occurrence of PF compared with the former series (1986-2000) observed in the same Service.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Albuquerque G.R., Berto B.P., Catenacci L., Cunha Nogueira S.S., Nogueira-Filho S.L.G. & Lopes C.W.G. 2008. Eimerid coccidia in capybaras Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris Linnaeus, 1766 (Rodentia: Hydrochaeridae) from southern Bahia, Brazil. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(7):323-328 Departamento de Ciências Agrárias e Ambientais, Universidade Estadual de Santa Cruz, BR415 Km 16, Salobrinho, Ilhéus, BA 45662-000, Brazil. E-mail: gralbu@uesc.br Two eimerid coccidia are reported in a capybara (Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris) population kept in captivity in the south of Bahia, northeastern Brazil (14° 47’ 57.89’’ S and 39° 10’ 10.58" W). Oocysts of Eimeria ichiloensis are subspheroidal to ellipsoidal, 26.2 x 21.7mm with bi-layered wall, the outer yellow and sculptured and the inner, dark and smooth. Residuum is absent, but usually 2-3 polar granules are present. Sporocysts are ovoid, 12.0 x 7.6mm. Stieda body and sporocyst residuum are present. Oocysts of Eimeria trinidadensis are subspheroidal to ellipsoidal, 22.2 x 19.6mm with bi-layered wall, the outer yellow and smooth, and the inner dark and smooth. Residuum is absent, but one polar granule is present. Sporocysts are ovoid, 11.0 x 6.9mm. Stieda body and sporocyst residuum are present. Based on these descriptions and previous ones it can be concluded that these coccidea species are widely dispersed in capybaras in South America.

• Eimeria ichiloensis Eimeria trinidadensis Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris capybara capivara

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Albuquerque G.R., Berto B.P., Catenacci L., Cunha Nogueira S.S., Nogueira-Filho S.L.G. & Lopes C.W.G. 2008. Eimerid coccidia in capybaras Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris Linnaeus, 1766 (Rodentia: Hydrochaeridae) from southern Bahia, Brazil. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(7):323-328 Departamento de Ciências Agrárias e Ambientais, Universidade Estadual de Santa Cruz, BR415 Km 16, Salobrinho, Ilhéus, BA 45662-000, Brazil. E-mail: gralbu@uesc.br Two eimerid coccidia are reported in a capybara (Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris) population kept in captivity in the south of Bahia, northeastern Brazil (14° 47’ 57.89’’ S and 39° 10’ 10.58" W). Oocysts of Eimeria ichiloensis are subspheroidal to ellipsoidal, 26.2 x 21.7mm with bi-layered wall, the outer yellow and sculptured and the inner, dark and smooth. Residuum is absent, but usually 2-3 polar granules are present. Sporocysts are ovoid, 12.0 x 7.6mm. Stieda body and sporocyst residuum are present. Oocysts of Eimeria trinidadensis are subspheroidal to ellipsoidal, 22.2 x 19.6mm with bi-layered wall, the outer yellow and smooth, and the inner dark and smooth. Residuum is absent, but one polar granule is present. Sporocysts are ovoid, 11.0 x 6.9mm. Stieda body and sporocyst residuum are present. Based on these descriptions and previous ones it can be concluded that these coccidea species are widely dispersed in capybaras in South America.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Dias E.A., Nichi M. & Guimarães M.A.B.V. 2008. Comparison of two commercial kits and two extraction methods for fecal glucocorticoid analysis in ocelots (Leopardus pardalis) submitted to ACTH challenge. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(7):329-334. Departamento de Reprodução Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Prof. Dr. Orlando Marques de Paiva 87, Cidade Universitária, São Paulo, SP 05508-270, Brazil. E-mail: eantdias@usp.br The ocelot (Leopardus pardalis) is included in list of wild felid species protected by CITES and is part of conservation strategies that necessarily involve the use of assisted reproduction techniques, which requires practical and minimally invasive techniques of high reproducibility that permit the study of animal reproductive physiology. The objective of this study was to compare and validate two commercial assays: ImmuChem Double Antibody Corticosterone 125I RIA from ICN Biomedicals, Costa Mesa, CA, USA; and Coat-a-Count Cortisol 125I RIA from DPC, Los Angeles, CA, USA, for assessment of fecal glucocorticoid metabolites in ocelots submitted to ACTH (adrenocorticotropic hormone) challenge. Fecal samples were collected from five ocelots kept at the Brazilian Center of Neotropical Felines, Associação Mata Ciliar, São Paulo, Brazil, and one of the animals was chosen as a negative control. The experiment was conducted over a period of 9 days. On day 0, a total dose of 100 IU ACTH was administered intramuscularly. Immediately after collection the samples were stored at -20C in labeled plastic bags. The hormone metabolites were subsequently extracted and assayed using the two commercial kits. Previously it was performed a trial with the DPC kit to check the best extraction method for hormones metabolites. Data were analyzed with the SAS program for Windows V8 and reported as means ± SEM. The Schwarzenberger extraction method was slightly better when compared with the Wasser extraction method (103,334.56 ± 19,010.37ng/g of wet feces and 59,223.61 ± 12,725.36ng/g of wet feces respectively; P=0,0657). The ICN kit detected an increase in glucocorticoid metabolite concentrations in a more reliable manner. Metabolite concentrations (ng/g wet feces) on day 0 and day 1 were 66,956.28 ± 36,786.93 and 92,991.19 ± 28,555.63 for the DPC kit, and 205,483.32 ± 83,811.32 and 814,578.75 ± 292,150.47 for the ICN kit, respectively. The limit of detection for the ICN kit was 7.7 ng/mL for 100% B/Bo (25ng/mL for 88%B/Bo) and for the DPC kit it was 0.2ug/dL for 90.95% B/Bo (1ug/dL for 81.27% B/Bo). In conclusion it was confirmed that the Schwarzenberger extraction method and the ICN kit are superior for extracting and measuring fecal glucocorticoid metabolites in ocelot fecal samples.

• Stress Leopardus pardalis ocelot ACTH challenge fecal glucocorticoid jaguatirica ACTH glicocorticóides fecais

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Dias E.A., Nichi M. & Guimarães M.A.B.V. 2008. Comparison of two commercial kits and two extraction methods for fecal glucocorticoid analysis in ocelots (Leopardus pardalis) submitted to ACTH challenge. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(7):329-334. Departamento de Reprodução Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Prof. Dr. Orlando Marques de Paiva 87, Cidade Universitária, São Paulo, SP 05508-270, Brazil. E-mail: eantdias@usp.br The ocelot (Leopardus pardalis) is included in list of wild felid species protected by CITES and is part of conservation strategies that necessarily involve the use of assisted reproduction techniques, which requires practical and minimally invasive techniques of high reproducibility that permit the study of animal reproductive physiology. The objective of this study was to compare and validate two commercial assays: ImmuChem Double Antibody Corticosterone 125I RIA from ICN Biomedicals, Costa Mesa, CA, USA; and Coat-a-Count Cortisol 125I RIA from DPC, Los Angeles, CA, USA, for assessment of fecal glucocorticoid metabolites in ocelots submitted to ACTH (adrenocorticotropic hormone) challenge. Fecal samples were collected from five ocelots kept at the Brazilian Center of Neotropical Felines, Associação Mata Ciliar, São Paulo, Brazil, and one of the animals was chosen as a negative control. The experiment was conducted over a period of 9 days. On day 0, a total dose of 100 IU ACTH was administered intramuscularly. Immediately after collection the samples were stored at -20C in labeled plastic bags. The hormone metabolites were subsequently extracted and assayed using the two commercial kits. Previously it was performed a trial with the DPC kit to check the best extraction method for hormones metabolites. Data were analyzed with the SAS program for Windows V8 and reported as means ± SEM. The Schwarzenberger extraction method was slightly better when compared with the Wasser extraction method (103,334.56 ± 19,010.37ng/g of wet feces and 59,223.61 ± 12,725.36ng/g of wet feces respectively; P=0,0657). The ICN kit detected an increase in glucocorticoid metabolite concentrations in a more reliable manner. Metabolite concentrations (ng/g wet feces) on day 0 and day 1 were 66,956.28 ± 36,786.93 and 92,991.19 ± 28,555.63 for the DPC kit, and 205,483.32 ± 83,811.32 and 814,578.75 ± 292,150.47 for the ICN kit, respectively. The limit of detection for the ICN kit was 7.7 ng/mL for 100% B/Bo (25ng/mL for 88%B/Bo) and for the DPC kit it was 0.2ug/dL for 90.95% B/Bo (1ug/dL for 81.27% B/Bo). In conclusion it was confirmed that the Schwarzenberger extraction method and the ICN kit are superior for extracting and measuring fecal glucocorticoid metabolites in ocelot fecal samples.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Graça F.A.S., Peixoto P.V., Coelho C.D., Caldas S.A. & Tokarnia C.H. 2008. [Clinical and pathological aspects of experimental Crotalus poisoning in cattle.] Aspectos clinicos e patológicos do envenenamento crotálico experimental em bovinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(6):261-270. Projeto Sanidade Animal Embrapa/UFRRJ, Seropédica, RJ 23890-000, Brazil. E-mail: flaviograca@uol.com.br Crotalus poisoning was experimentally reproduced by subcutaneous inoculation of Crotalus durissus terrificus (South American rattlesnake) venom into 10 clinically healthy mixed bred 12 to 36-month-old cattle, weighing 125 to 449 kg. Two animals were used as controls. The animal that received a dose of 0.03mg/kg body weight died 7h40min after inoculation. A 0.015mg/kg dose provoked death in 4 out of 7 young oxen. Two animals given 0.0075mg/kg became slightly sick and recovered. Onset of symptoms occurred from 1h30min to 13h45min after inoculation. The clinical course varied from 5h25min to 45h for animals that died, and from 33h15min to 17 days for animals that recovered. The main nervous signs observed were diminished response to external stimuli, hypotonic reflexes, dragging of the hooves, apathy, difficulties in moving around obstacles, ocular globe paralysis, lateral and sternal decubitus, and tongue paralysis. Adipsia and sometimes petechiae in the conjunctival and vaginal mucosa were observed. A slight to moderate increase in bleeding time was noted in 6 animals, and a moderate increase in partial thromboplastin time was found in 7 others. Moderate leukocytosis with neutrophilia, relative lymphopenia, eosinopenia, and monocytosis was found. There was a significant increase in creatine kinase serum levels of a ten-fold order. No significant alterations were revealed by urinalysis. Necropsy revealed minimal edema at the inoculation site, few petechiae and equimoses in the epicardium, omentum, biliary vesicle and bladder mucosa of some animals. Histopathological examination revealed necrosis (hyalinization) of groups or isolated myocytes in different muscles examined, both near and far from the inoculation site, in all animals. The diagnosis of Crotalus poisoning and its differentiation from diseases causing paralysis and muscular necrosis in cattle in Brazil are discussed.

• Poisoning Crotalus durissus terrificus cattle snake bite

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Graça F.A.S., Peixoto P.V., Coelho C.D., Caldas S.A. & Tokarnia C.H. 2008. [Clinical and pathological aspects of experimental Crotalus poisoning in cattle.] Aspectos clinicos e patológicos do envenenamento crotálico experimental em bovinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(6):261-270. Projeto Sanidade Animal Embrapa/UFRRJ, Seropédica, RJ 23890-000, Brazil. E-mail: flaviograca@uol.com.br Crotalus poisoning was experimentally reproduced by subcutaneous inoculation of Crotalus durissus terrificus (South American rattlesnake) venom into 10 clinically healthy mixed bred 12 to 36-month-old cattle, weighing 125 to 449 kg. Two animals were used as controls. The animal that received a dose of 0.03mg/kg body weight died 7h40min after inoculation. A 0.015mg/kg dose provoked death in 4 out of 7 young oxen. Two animals given 0.0075mg/kg became slightly sick and recovered. Onset of symptoms occurred from 1h30min to 13h45min after inoculation. The clinical course varied from 5h25min to 45h for animals that died, and from 33h15min to 17 days for animals that recovered. The main nervous signs observed were diminished response to external stimuli, hypotonic reflexes, dragging of the hooves, apathy, difficulties in moving around obstacles, ocular globe paralysis, lateral and sternal decubitus, and tongue paralysis. Adipsia and sometimes petechiae in the conjunctival and vaginal mucosa were observed. A slight to moderate increase in bleeding time was noted in 6 animals, and a moderate increase in partial thromboplastin time was found in 7 others. Moderate leukocytosis with neutrophilia, relative lymphopenia, eosinopenia, and monocytosis was found. There was a significant increase in creatine kinase serum levels of a ten-fold order. No significant alterations were revealed by urinalysis. Necropsy revealed minimal edema at the inoculation site, few petechiae and equimoses in the epicardium, omentum, biliary vesicle and bladder mucosa of some animals. Histopathological examination revealed necrosis (hyalinization) of groups or isolated myocytes in different muscles examined, both near and far from the inoculation site, in all animals. The diagnosis of Crotalus poisoning and its differentiation from diseases causing paralysis and muscular necrosis in cattle in Brazil are discussed.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Koller F.L., Borowski S.M., Asanome W., Hein G., Lagemann F.L., Driemeier D. & Barcellos D.E.S.N. 2008. [Dental periapical abscesses in piglets affected by postweaning multisystemic wasting syndrome PMWS.] Abscessos dentários periapi-cais em leitões com síndrome multissistêmica do definhamento. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasi-leira 28(6):271-274. Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Av. Bento Gonçalves 9090, Porto Alegre RS 91540-000, Brazil. E-mail: davetpat@ufrgs.br Swine producers have historically resected needle teeth of newborn pigs to prevent potential injuries to the sow mammary gland and faces of littermates. However, the possible impact of this practice on pig performance has been questioned. As part of a study, 280 PMWS affected piglets, with 40-70 days of age, were examined for the presence of dental lesions immediately after euthanasia. Most pigs were confirmed as PMWS by the detection of typical microscopic lesions and immunohistochemical pattern. At least one periapical abscess was observed in 58 piglets (20.7%), of which 12 had multiple abscesses. There were 22 (31.4%), 16 (22.9%), 4 (5.7%), 23 (32.9%), and 5 (7.1%) abscesses in 3rd upper incisives, 3rd lower incisives, upper canines, lower canines, and other teeth, respectively. The higher prevalence of dental abscesses observed in 3rd incisives and lower canines is probably associated with the wider area of grinding or clipping to which these teeth were subjected. Among bacteria isolated from samples collected from 65 abscesses, Streptococcus sp. was the most prevalent bacteria and was present in 21.48% and 27.7% of the aerobic and anaerobic isolates, respectively. In the second most frequent group were coryneform microorganisms, which showed higher rate of isolation under anaerobic atmosphere than in aerobic culture. There was preponderance of Gram-positive isolates. It could not be determined whether these bacterial co-infections predisposed pigs to development of PMWS-type lesions or if were subsequent to the PCV2 infection.

• Periapical abscess causal bacteria co-infection PMWS piglet teeth resection teeth clipping

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Koller F.L., Borowski S.M., Asanome W., Hein G., Lagemann F.L., Driemeier D. & Barcellos D.E.S.N. 2008. [Dental periapical abscesses in piglets affected by postweaning multisystemic wasting syndrome PMWS.] Abscessos dentários periapi-cais em leitões com síndrome multissistêmica do definhamento. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasi-leira 28(6):271-274. Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Av. Bento Gonçalves 9090, Porto Alegre RS 91540-000, Brazil. E-mail: davetpat@ufrgs.br Swine producers have historically resected needle teeth of newborn pigs to prevent potential injuries to the sow mammary gland and faces of littermates. However, the possible impact of this practice on pig performance has been questioned. As part of a study, 280 PMWS affected piglets, with 40-70 days of age, were examined for the presence of dental lesions immediately after euthanasia. Most pigs were confirmed as PMWS by the detection of typical microscopic lesions and immunohistochemical pattern. At least one periapical abscess was observed in 58 piglets (20.7%), of which 12 had multiple abscesses. There were 22 (31.4%), 16 (22.9%), 4 (5.7%), 23 (32.9%), and 5 (7.1%) abscesses in 3rd upper incisives, 3rd lower incisives, upper canines, lower canines, and other teeth, respectively. The higher prevalence of dental abscesses observed in 3rd incisives and lower canines is probably associated with the wider area of grinding or clipping to which these teeth were subjected. Among bacteria isolated from samples collected from 65 abscesses, Streptococcus sp. was the most prevalent bacteria and was present in 21.48% and 27.7% of the aerobic and anaerobic isolates, respectively. In the second most frequent group were coryneform microorganisms, which showed higher rate of isolation under anaerobic atmosphere than in aerobic culture. There was preponderance of Gram-positive isolates. It could not be determined whether these bacterial co-infections predisposed pigs to development of PMWS-type lesions or if were subsequent to the PCV2 infection.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Oliveira L.I., Jabour F.F., Nogueira V.A. & Yamasaki E.M. 2008. [Experimental poisoning by the leaves of Jatropha gossypifolia (Euphorbiaceae) in sheep.] Intoxicação experimental com as folhas de Jatropha gossypifolia (Euphorbiaceae) em ovinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(6):275-278. Projeto Sanidade Animal Embrapa/UFRRJ, Seropédica, RJ 23890-000, Brazil. E-mail: iglesias.vet@gmail.com Fresh green leaves of Jatropha gossypifolia (Euphorbiaceae) were lethal for sheep in single administrations of 40g/kg. The dose of 5g/kg did not cause poisoning, but intermediate doses caused death in part of the animals. The clinical course of poisoning was 6 to 22 days. The clinic and pathological picture in the experimental sheep was characterized by digestive, lung and heart disturbances, and also by slight microscopic liver and renal regressive alterations. These findings are similar to those observed in experiments with the seeds of Jatropha curcas in goats, sheep and calves, and with the fruits and leaves of Jatropha glauca and Jatropha aceroides in goats, performed by other authors. A comparison indicates that, independently of the plant species, the leaves of Jatropha spp. contain toxic compounds similar to those found in the seeds.

• Poisonous plants plant poisoning Jatropha gossypifolia Euphorbiaceae sheep pathology

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Oliveira L.I., Jabour F.F., Nogueira V.A. & Yamasaki E.M. 2008. [Experimental poisoning by the leaves of Jatropha gossypifolia (Euphorbiaceae) in sheep.] Intoxicação experimental com as folhas de Jatropha gossypifolia (Euphorbiaceae) em ovinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(6):275-278. Projeto Sanidade Animal Embrapa/UFRRJ, Seropédica, RJ 23890-000, Brazil. E-mail: iglesias.vet@gmail.com Fresh green leaves of Jatropha gossypifolia (Euphorbiaceae) were lethal for sheep in single administrations of 40g/kg. The dose of 5g/kg did not cause poisoning, but intermediate doses caused death in part of the animals. The clinical course of poisoning was 6 to 22 days. The clinic and pathological picture in the experimental sheep was characterized by digestive, lung and heart disturbances, and also by slight microscopic liver and renal regressive alterations. These findings are similar to those observed in experiments with the seeds of Jatropha curcas in goats, sheep and calves, and with the fruits and leaves of Jatropha glauca and Jatropha aceroides in goats, performed by other authors. A comparison indicates that, independently of the plant species, the leaves of Jatropha spp. contain toxic compounds similar to those found in the seeds.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Souza N.R., Adorno V.B., Marcondes J.S., Oliveira Filho J.P., Conceição L.G., Amorim R.L. & Borges A.S. 2008. [Clinical and histopathological characteristics of the aural plaque in Mangalarga and Quarter Horses.] Características clínicas e histopatológicas da placa aural em eqüinos Mangalarga e Quarto de Milha. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(6):279-284. Departamento de Clínica Veterinária, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Unesp-Campus de Botucatu, Distrito de Rubião Júnior s/n, Botucatu, SP 18618000, Brazil. E-mail: zep.filho@hotmail.com Aural plaque is a variant of equine papillomatosis. Clinical examination was performed on 306 Mangalarga and 275 Quarter Horses to compare the occurrence of aural plaques among animals and to characterize clinical and histological findings for the disease. Aural plaques occurred in 57% of Mangalarga and in 35% of Quarter breeds. Clinically the lesions consisted of flat, desquamated and hypochromic plaques formed by coalescence of small papules. The main histopathological findings were epidermal hyperplasia and hypomelanosis with abrupt change between the normal and the affected epithelium.

• Equine papillomatosis aural plaques Mangalarga Quarter Horses

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Souza N.R., Adorno V.B., Marcondes J.S., Oliveira Filho J.P., Conceição L.G., Amorim R.L. & Borges A.S. 2008. [Clinical and histopathological characteristics of the aural plaque in Mangalarga and Quarter Horses.] Características clínicas e histopatológicas da placa aural em eqüinos Mangalarga e Quarto de Milha. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(6):279-284. Departamento de Clínica Veterinária, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Unesp-Campus de Botucatu, Distrito de Rubião Júnior s/n, Botucatu, SP 18618000, Brazil. E-mail: zep.filho@hotmail.com Aural plaque is a variant of equine papillomatosis. Clinical examination was performed on 306 Mangalarga and 275 Quarter Horses to compare the occurrence of aural plaques among animals and to characterize clinical and histological findings for the disease. Aural plaques occurred in 57% of Mangalarga and in 35% of Quarter breeds. Clinically the lesions consisted of flat, desquamated and hypochromic plaques formed by coalescence of small papules. The main histopathological findings were epidermal hyperplasia and hypomelanosis with abrupt change between the normal and the affected epithelium.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Ferreira L.C.L., Flores E.F., Driemeier D., Melo O. & Lemos R.A.A. 2008. [Mucosal disease associated with generalized dermatitis in cattle, Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil.] Doença das mucosas associada à dermatite generalizada em bovinos, Mato Grosso do Sul. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(6):285-292. Departamento de Medicina Veterinária, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso do Sul, Av. Senador Filinto Müller 2443, Campo Grande, MS 79070-900, Brazil. E-mail: eqrural@nin.ufms.br This paper reports epidemiological, clinical, pathological and laboratory diagnostic aspects of a form of dermatitis associated with mucosal disease (MD) in cattle. It also focuses on the methods used for identifying persistently infected (PI) animals and on the impact of the disease on fertility and weaning rates in the affected herd. Cases of dermatitis associated with MD were diagnosed in two 12 and 24-month-old Nelore calves belonging to a beef cattle farm that operates the full cycle of production (calving, rearing, finishing) in Mato Grosso do Sul, Midwest Brazil. The clinical signs exhibited by affected cattle 0included slow, progressive weight loss; formation of diffuse skin crusts in multiple body areas; skin dryness; multiple ulcerations on the gums and dorsal surface of the tongue which evolved to longitudinal fissures; formation of keratinized projections; and detachment of hoof horn. In addition, diarrhea affected one animal in the late stage of the disease. Necropsies also revealed longitudinal erosions in the esophagus. Histological examination showed coagulation necrosis foci in esophageal and lingual mucosae, with neutrophil and lymphocyte infiltration. Skin lesions consisted of epidermal coagulation necrosis associated with neutrophil infiltration and hyperkeratosis. In both cases, clinical diagnosis was confirmed by the isolation and identification of cytopathic and noncytopathic biotypes of the bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) and immunohistochemical detection of viral antigens in formalin fixed tissues. Out of 300 cattle that had contact with the affected animals, 38 were found to be seropositive - in high neutralizing titers - to BVDV. Blood samples from 1,025 young animals and 40 bulls from the farm were examined for the presence of BVDV to identify potential PI animals. The virus was isolated from blood of three calves in the initial test and, 12 months later, from two of them which had remained on the farm. Only one of these calves was found to be BVDV-positive by immuno-histochemical testing performed on ear-tissue samples. In the year following the birth of PI calves, the herd underwent decreases in fertility and weaning rates, which later returned to their previous levels. The resulting data demonstrate the presence of BVDV infection in beef herds in Mato Grosso do Sul and provide evidence as to include the disease in the differential diagnosis of causes of generalized dermatitis in cattle.

• Bovine viral diarrhea virus mucosal disease cattle diseases viral diseases dermatitis

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Ferreira L.C.L., Flores E.F., Driemeier D., Melo O. & Lemos R.A.A. 2008. [Mucosal disease associated with generalized dermatitis in cattle, Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil.] Doença das mucosas associada à dermatite generalizada em bovinos, Mato Grosso do Sul. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(6):285-292. Departamento de Medicina Veterinária, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso do Sul, Av. Senador Filinto Müller 2443, Campo Grande, MS 79070-900, Brazil. E-mail: eqrural@nin.ufms.br This paper reports epidemiological, clinical, pathological and laboratory diagnostic aspects of a form of dermatitis associated with mucosal disease (MD) in cattle. It also focuses on the methods used for identifying persistently infected (PI) animals and on the impact of the disease on fertility and weaning rates in the affected herd. Cases of dermatitis associated with MD were diagnosed in two 12 and 24-month-old Nelore calves belonging to a beef cattle farm that operates the full cycle of production (calving, rearing, finishing) in Mato Grosso do Sul, Midwest Brazil. The clinical signs exhibited by affected cattle 0included slow, progressive weight loss; formation of diffuse skin crusts in multiple body areas; skin dryness; multiple ulcerations on the gums and dorsal surface of the tongue which evolved to longitudinal fissures; formation of keratinized projections; and detachment of hoof horn. In addition, diarrhea affected one animal in the late stage of the disease. Necropsies also revealed longitudinal erosions in the esophagus. Histological examination showed coagulation necrosis foci in esophageal and lingual mucosae, with neutrophil and lymphocyte infiltration. Skin lesions consisted of epidermal coagulation necrosis associated with neutrophil infiltration and hyperkeratosis. In both cases, clinical diagnosis was confirmed by the isolation and identification of cytopathic and noncytopathic biotypes of the bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) and immunohistochemical detection of viral antigens in formalin fixed tissues. Out of 300 cattle that had contact with the affected animals, 38 were found to be seropositive - in high neutralizing titers - to BVDV. Blood samples from 1,025 young animals and 40 bulls from the farm were examined for the presence of BVDV to identify potential PI animals. The virus was isolated from blood of three calves in the initial test and, 12 months later, from two of them which had remained on the farm. Only one of these calves was found to be BVDV-positive by immuno-histochemical testing performed on ear-tissue samples. In the year following the birth of PI calves, the herd underwent decreases in fertility and weaning rates, which later returned to their previous levels. The resulting data demonstrate the presence of BVDV infection in beef herds in Mato Grosso do Sul and provide evidence as to include the disease in the differential diagnosis of causes of generalized dermatitis in cattle.