PESQUISA VETERINÁRIA BRASILEIRA

Abstract in English:

RESUMO.- Paes Leme F.O., Wurzinger L., Alves G.E.S., Costa-Val A.P., Pinotti M.B., Paes P.R.O. & Oliveira M.E.C. 2009. [In vitro inibition and reversion of equine platelet aggregation using ketoprophen, phenylbutazone and flunixin meglumin.] Inibição e reversão da agregação plaquetária de eqüinos in vitro com o uso de ketoprofeno, fenilbutazona e flunixim meglumine. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(10):803-808. Departamento de Clínica e Cirurgia Veterinária, Escola de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Av. Antônio Carlos 6627, Pampulha, Belo Horizonte, MG 30123-970, Brazil. E-mail: fabiola@vet.ufmg.br Como são várias as enfermidades e os distúrbios que induzem à hipercoagulabilidade e à pré-ativação de plaquetas em eqüinos. A atividade de medicamentos utilizados para controle dessas enfermidades sobre a agregação de plaquetas pode, não apenas servir para avaliar sua evolução, como também a resposta terapêutica. Com o objetivo de avaliar a prevenção e a reversão da agregação plaquetária de eqüinos in vitro foram utilizados os antiinflamatórios não esteroidais (AINES): ketoprofeno, fenilbutazona e flunixim meglumine. A comparação demonstrou que a fenilbutazona e o ketoprofeno previnem a agregação de plaquetas de eqüinos induzida pelo ADP, de forma mais eficaz do que o flunixim-meglumine e, superior ao fragmento monoclonal de anticorpo Reopro, sendo semelhante a dos bloqueadores de receptores de membrana Ro-438857 e RGDS. Quanto a reverão da agregação plaquetária tanto a fenilbutazona quanto o ketoprofeno demonstraram efeitos dose-dependente.

• Aggregometry ADP Reopro RGDS Ro-438857 NSAId

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Paes Leme F.O., Wurzinger L., Alves G.E.S., Costa-Val A.P., Pinotti M.B., Paes P.R.O. & Oliveira M.E.C. 2009. [In vitro inibition and reversion of equine platelet aggregation using ketoprophen, phenylbutazone and flunixin meglumin.] Inibição e reversão da agregação plaquetária de eqüinos in vitro com o uso de ketoprofeno, fenilbutazona e flunixim meglumine. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(10):803-808. Departamento de Clínica e Cirurgia Veterinária, Escola de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Av. Antônio Carlos 6627, Pampulha, Belo Horizonte, MG 30123-970, Brazil. E-mail: fabiola@vet.ufmg.br Several diseases may lead to platelet pre-activation and hypercoagulability states in horses. The activity of many drugs against platelet aggregation may, not only contribute to the evaluation of a disease but also its response to the therapy. With the aim to study in vitro prevention and reversion of platelet aggregation, the non steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID): ketoprophen, phenylbutazone and flunixin-meglumin were evaluated. The comparison demonstrated that phenylbutazone and ketoprophen prevented platelet aggregation induced by ADP better than flunixin-meglumin, in a superior manner to the monoclonal antibody Reopro, and in a better way than the membrane receptor blockers Ro-438857 and RGDS. The reversion of platelet aggregation demonstrated that even phenylbutazone or ketoprophen have a dose-dependent effect.

Abstract in English:

RESUMO.- Fonseca F.A., Zambrano R.S., Dias G.M.B., Lima E.M.M., Alves G.E.S. & Godoy R.F. 2009. [Physical, biochemical and cytological characteristics of the equine temporomandibular joint synovial fluid.] Características fisicoquímicas e citológicas do líquido sinovial da articulação temporomandibular em eqüinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(10):829-833. Hospital Veterinário de Grandes Animais, Faculdade de Agronomia e Veterinária, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília, DF 70636-200, Brazil. E-mail: robertagodoy@unb.br Foram estudadas as características fisicoquímicas e citológicas do líquido sinovial da articulação temporomandibular de dez eqüinos hígidos. Verificou-se que o líquido é viscoso, amarelo claro a citrino, límpido e livre de partículas à temperatura ambiente. Houve contaminação da amostra por sangue em três amostras que se apresentaram amarelo avermelhadas a vermelhas e de aspecto turvo. A taxa de glicose variou entre 100 e 250 e a concentração protéica não ultrapassou 3,8g/dL. O número médio de células nucleadas foi de 417 células/µL, com predominância de grandes células mononucleares e linfócitos. As mensurações das características pesquisadas no líquido sinovial da articulação temporomandibular de eqüinos são de execução simples e passíveis de implantação na rotina de atendimentos clínico-cirúrgicos.

• Equine synovial fluid temporomandibular joint

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Fonseca F.A., Zambrano R.S., Dias G.M.B., Lima E.M.M., Alves G.E.S. & Godoy R.F. 2009. [Physical, biochemical and cytological characteristics of the equine temporomandibular joint synovial fluid.] Características fisicoquímicas e citológicas do líquido sinovial da articulação temporomandibular em eqüinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(10):829-833. Hospital Veterinário de Grandes Animais, Faculdade de Agronomia e Veterinária, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília, DF 70636-200, Brazil. E-mail: robertagodoy@unb.br Physical, biochemical and cytological characteristics of the temporomandibular joint synovial fluid were studied in ten clinically normal horses. It is a viscous, pale yellow, clear fluid and without flocculent material at room temperature. There was blood contamination in three samples, they presented red-yellow to red and cloudy. The range of glucose levels were 100 to 250 and its protein concentration was up to 3,8g/dL. Nucleated cells mean number was 417 cells/µL, with predominating large mononuclear cells and lymphocytes. Equine temporomandibular synovial fluids can be easily evaluated, being feasible in clinical and surgical routine, and the information may be useful to the diagnosis, treatment and prognosis of animals with temporomandibular alterations.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Laskoski L.M., Valadão C.A.A., Vasconcelos R.O., Pereira R.N., Dias A.D.P.U. & Alessi A.C. 2009. [Morphologic alterations of the hoof lamellar tissue, and clinic and laboratorial analyses of horses with lethal colic syndrome.] Alterações morfológicas de tecido laminar do casco e parâmetros clínicos e laboratoriais de equinos com síndrome cólica letal. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(9):731-735. Departamento de Clínica e Cirurgia Veterinária, Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Via de Acesso Prof. Paulo Donato Castellane s/n, Jaboticabal, SP 14884-900, Brazil. E-mail: lucianelaskoski@hotmail.com The gastrointestinal diseases of horses are aggravated by complications such as laminitis. The laminitis etiopathogeny are connected with lamellar basement membrane degradation by matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). Inflammatory cytokines and leukocytes enzymes can active MMPs. The object of this study was to evaluate morphological changes on lamellar tissue of horses with colic syndrome and its association with clinical and laboratorial parameters. It was observed intensive destruction of lamellar architecture, mainly on animals with severe physical and laboratorial alterations, such as delayed capillary refill time, congested mucous membrane, tachycardia, hemoconcentration and low count of platelet and leukocytes. The results sign to the most likely moment of development of lamellar tissue injuries in horses with colic syndrome, which can be adopted preventive measures against laminitis.

• Colic syndrome laminitis síndrome cólica laminite

Abstract in Portuguese:

RESUMO.- Laskoski L.M., Valadão C.A.A., Vasconcelos R.O., Pereira R.N., Dias A.D.P.U. & Alessi A.C. 2009. [Morphologic alterations of the hoof lamellar tissue, and clinic and laboratorial analyses of horses with lethal colic syndrome.] Alterações morfológicas de tecido laminar do casco e parâmetros clínicos e laboratoriais de equinos com síndrome cólica letal. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(9):731-735. Departamento de Clínica e Cirurgia Veterinária, Faculdade de Ciências Agrárias e Veterinárias, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Via de Acesso Prof. Paulo Donato Castellane s/n, Jaboticabal, SP 14884-900, Brazil. E-mail: lucianelaskoski@hotmail.com As afecções gastrintestinais dos cavalos são agravadas por complicações como a laminite, cuja etiopatogenia está relacionada à degradação da membrana basal do tecido laminar por metaloproteinases (MMPs). A ativação das MMPs pode ocorrer devido à liberação local de citocinas inflamatórias ou enzimas provenientes de leucócitos infiltrados no tecido laminar. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar as alterações morfológicas do tecido laminar de equinos com síndrome cólica letal e sua provável associação com parâmetros clínicos e laboratoriais. Observou-se intensa destruição da arquitetura laminar, principalmente nos animais com alterações físicas e laboratoriais mais acentuadas, como tempo de preenchimento capilar prolongado (TPC), membranas mucosas congestas, taquicardia, hemoconcentração e redução nas contagens de plaquetas e leucócitos. Os resultados sinalizam o provável momento do desenvolvimento de lesões do tecido laminar em equinos com síndrome cólica, no qual é possível adotar medidas preventivas contra a laminite.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Pimentel L.A., Oliveira D.M., Galiza G.J.N., Rego R.O., Dantas A.F.M. & Riet-Correa F. 2009. [Diseases of the central nervous system in equidae in the Brazilian semiarid.] Doenças do sistema nervoso central de equídeos no semi-árido. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(7):589-597. Hospital Veterinário, Universidade Federal de Campina Grande, Campus de Patos, Patos, PB 58700-000, Brazil. E-mail: franklin.riet@pq.cnpq.br Diseases of the central nervous system (CNS) in equidae are important in these species, and their knowledge in the different Brazilian regions is necessary to determine efficient control and preventive measures. This paper reports epidemiologic aspects, clinical signs and pathology of diseases of the CNS in equidae diagnosed by the Veterinary Pathology Laboratory at the Federal University of Campina Grande in the city of Patos, state of Paraíba, northeastern Brazil, during 2002-2008. During the period, 159 cases or outbreaks of those diseases were studied, 49 (30.8%) affecting the CNS. Hepatic encephalopathy caused by Crotalaria retusa poisoning, with 14 cases (28.5%), was the main disease observed. Tetanus was diagnosed in 13 (26.5%) cases and rabies in 11 (22.4%). In seven (14.2%) cases the death or euthanasia was due to traumatic lesions of the CNS. Also were diagnosed 1 case of leucoencephalomalacia, 1 case of encephalitis by equine herpesvirus-1, 1 case of intracarotid artery injection, 1 outbreak of Eastern equine encephalitis, 1 of Turbina cordata poisoning, and 1 of a tremogenic disease of unknown cause. In 5 cases the diagnosis was inconclusive. This paper indicates the importance of diagnostic veterinary laboratories, in the different Brazilian regions, for the knowledge of livestock diseases.

• Eastern equine encephalitis equine herpesvirus-1 hepatic encephalopaty intracarotid artery injection equine leucoencephalomalacia rabies tetanus

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Pimentel L.A., Oliveira D.M., Galiza G.J.N., Rego R.O., Dantas A.F.M. & Riet-Correa F. 2009. [Diseases of the central nervous system in equidae in the Brazilian semiarid.] Doenças do sistema nervoso central de equídeos no semi-árido. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(7):589-597. Hospital Veterinário, Universidade Federal de Campina Grande, Campus de Patos, Patos, PB 58700-000, Brazil. E-mail: franklin.riet@pq.cnpq.br Diseases of the central nervous system (CNS) in equidae are important in these species, and their knowledge in the different Brazilian regions is necessary to determine efficient control and preventive measures. This paper reports epidemiologic aspects, clinical signs and pathology of diseases of the CNS in equidae diagnosed by the Veterinary Pathology Laboratory at the Federal University of Campina Grande in the city of Patos, state of Paraíba, northeastern Brazil, during 2002-2008. During the period, 159 cases or outbreaks of those diseases were studied, 49 (30.8%) affecting the CNS. Hepatic encephalopathy caused by Crotalaria retusa poisoning, with 14 cases (28.5%), was the main disease observed. Tetanus was diagnosed in 13 (26.5%) cases and rabies in 11 (22.4%). In seven (14.2%) cases the death or euthanasia was due to traumatic lesions of the CNS. Also were diagnosed 1 case of leucoencephalomalacia, 1 case of encephalitis by equine herpesvirus-1, 1 case of intracarotid artery injection, 1 outbreak of Eastern equine encephalitis, 1 of Turbina cordata poisoning, and 1 of a tremogenic disease of unknown cause. In 5 cases the diagnosis was inconclusive. This paper indicates the importance of diagnostic veterinary laboratories, in the different Brazilian regions, for the knowledge of livestock diseases.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Pimentel L.A., Riet-Correa F., Guedes K.M., Macêdo J.T.S.A., Medeiros R.M.T. & Dantas A.F.M. 2007. [Primary photosensitization in equidae and ruminants in the Brazilian semi-arid caused by Froelichia humboldtiana (Amaranthaceae).] Fotossensibilização primária em eqüídeos e ruminantes no semi-árido causada por Froelichia humboldtiana (Amaranthaceae). Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(1):23-28. Hospital Veterinário, CSTR, Universidade Federal de Campina Grande, Campus de Patos, Patos, PB 58708-110, Brazil. E-mail: franklin.riet@pesquisador.com.br Photosensitization is common in the Brazilian semiarid, affecting mainly horses, but also donkeys, mules, sheep and cattle. The dermatitis affects mainly non pigmented skin, and the animals recover after being withdrawn from the pastures. To demonstrate the etiology of the disease, Froelichia humboldtiana (Roem. et Schult.) Seub., collected in the field one or two times a week and kept in the refrigerator for 1-4 days, was administered for 30 or more days as the only food ad libitum to 2 donkeys and one white sheep, and as the only forage ad libitum, to one white horse. No clinical signs were observed in those animals, and serum activities of aspartate-aminotransferase (AST), alanine-aminotransferase (AST), and gamma-glutamyltransferase (GGT) were within normal ranges. In another experiment, one sheep was tied by a rope, during the day, in a pasture of exclusively F. humboldtiana for a 26 days period. Skin lesions characteristic of photosensitization appeared 4-5 days after the start of the experiment and became severe until day 26. After the withdrawal of the animal from the pasture on day 26 it fully recovered within 30 days. In another experiment, 4 sheep were tied by ropes in the same pasture, during the day, for a 29 days period. Another 4 control sheep were maintained in a neighboring pasture without F. humboldtiana. Skin lesions characteristic of photosensitization were observed after 11-25 days of F. humboldtiana grazing. Serum activities of AST and GGT, and serum levels of bilirubin were within normal ranges. At the end of the 29 days grazing F. humboldtiana, 2 sheep were euthanized, and 2 were withdrawn from the pastures. No gross or histologic liver lesions were observed on the 2 sheep euthanized; the other 2 sheep recovered within 17 and 20 days after the end of grazing. One mare and its foal grazed in the same pasture during 44 days. The mare that had a pigmented skin had no dermatitis, but the foal showed dermatitis on the white areas of the skin after 25 days of grazing. The two horses were withdrawn from the pastures after 44 days grazing, and the foal fully recovered within 15 days. These experiments indicate that F. humboldtiana causes primary photosensitization in domestic animals. The absence of lesions in animals ingesting the plant collected in the field and kept refrigerated suggests that F. humboldtiana lost toxicity after collection. The absence of lesions in the eyes of affected animal, which are characteristic of primary photosensitization caused by furocoumarins containing plants, suggests that F. humboldtiana contains a naphthodianthrone derivate, similar to those found in Fagopyrum esculentum and Hypericum perforatum which do not cause eye lesions.

• Primary photosensitization Froelichia humboldtiana Amaranthaceae equidae ruminants dermatitis

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Pimentel L.A., Riet-Correa F., Guedes K.M., Macêdo J.T.S.A., Medeiros R.M.T. & Dantas A.F.M. 2007. [Primary photosensitization in equidae and ruminants in the Brazilian semi-arid caused by Froelichia humboldtiana (Amaranthaceae).] Fotossensibilização primária em eqüídeos e ruminantes no semi-árido causada por Froelichia humboldtiana (Amaranthaceae). Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(1):23-28. Hospital Veterinário, CSTR, Universidade Federal de Campina Grande, Campus de Patos, Patos, PB 58708-110, Brazil. E-mail: franklin.riet@pesquisador.com.br Photosensitization is common in the Brazilian semiarid, affecting mainly horses, but also donkeys, mules, sheep and cattle. The dermatitis affects mainly non pigmented skin, and the animals recover after being withdrawn from the pastures. To demonstrate the etiology of the disease, Froelichia humboldtiana (Roem. et Schult.) Seub., collected in the field one or two times a week and kept in the refrigerator for 1-4 days, was administered for 30 or more days as the only food ad libitum to 2 donkeys and one white sheep, and as the only forage ad libitum, to one white horse. No clinical signs were observed in those animals, and serum activities of aspartate-aminotransferase (AST), alanine-aminotransferase (AST), and gamma-glutamyltransferase (GGT) were within normal ranges. In another experiment, one sheep was tied by a rope, during the day, in a pasture of exclusively F. humboldtiana for a 26 days period. Skin lesions characteristic of photosensitization appeared 4-5 days after the start of the experiment and became severe until day 26. After the withdrawal of the animal from the pasture on day 26 it fully recovered within 30 days. In another experiment, 4 sheep were tied by ropes in the same pasture, during the day, for a 29 days period. Another 4 control sheep were maintained in a neighboring pasture without F. humboldtiana. Skin lesions characteristic of photosensitization were observed after 11-25 days of F. humboldtiana grazing. Serum activities of AST and GGT, and serum levels of bilirubin were within normal ranges. At the end of the 29 days grazing F. humboldtiana, 2 sheep were euthanized, and 2 were withdrawn from the pastures. No gross or histologic liver lesions were observed on the 2 sheep euthanized; the other 2 sheep recovered within 17 and 20 days after the end of grazing. One mare and its foal grazed in the same pasture during 44 days. The mare that had a pigmented skin had no dermatitis, but the foal showed dermatitis on the white areas of the skin after 25 days of grazing. The two horses were withdrawn from the pastures after 44 days grazing, and the foal fully recovered within 15 days. These experiments indicate that F. humboldtiana causes primary photosensitization in domestic animals. The absence of lesions in animals ingesting the plant collected in the field and kept refrigerated suggests that F. humboldtiana lost toxicity after collection. The absence of lesions in the eyes of affected animal, which are characteristic of primary photosensitization caused by furocoumarins containing plants, suggests that F. humboldtiana contains a naphthodianthrone derivate, similar to those found in Fagopyrum esculentum and Hypericum perforatum which do not cause eye lesions.

Abstract in English:

Rodrigues A., Fighera R.A., Souza T.M., Schild A.L., Soares M.P., Milano J. & Barros C.S.L. 2005. [Outbreaks of trypanosomiasis in horses by Trypanosoma evansi in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil: epidemiological, clinical, hematological, and pathological aspects.] Surtos de tripanossomíase por Trypanosoma evansi em eqüinos no Rio Grande do Sul: aspectos epidemiológicos, clínicos, hematológicos e patológicos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 25(4):239-249. Depto Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900 Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: claudioslbarros@uol.com.br Cases of trypanosomiasis by Trypanosoma evansi were diagnosed in horses in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, between 2003 and 2004. In one stud farm (Farm A) with 125 horses, 52 died. Additionally, around 80 mares were sent to Farm A to be bred. Of those, 66 became ill and 56 died after being returned to their farms of origin. Twenty one horses clinically affected by the disease were observed. Clinical signs included loss of weight (despite voracious appetite), lethargy, incoordination and instability of hindlimbs, atrophy of the large muscles of the hindlimbs, muscle weakness and paleness of mucosae. Specimens of T. evansi were detected in the blood drawn from four affected horses. Normocytic normochromic anemia with PCVs ranging from 15 to 31%, leucocytosis due to lymphocytosis associated to large atypical lymphocytes was observed in several affected horses. High levels of antibodies against T. evansi were detected in the serum of six horses from Farm A. Eight horses presented encephalic neurological signs such as circling, ataxia, blindness, excitation, falls, listlessness, proprioception deficits and head tilt. One horse assumed a “dog-seating position”. Necropsy findings included muscle atrophy, enlargement and lymphoid hyperplasia of the spleen and lymphnodes, edema and softening of the white and grey matter of the brain. Histologically, an overwhelming necrotizing panencephalitis was observed in the seven horses with encephalic signs. This panencephalitis was characterized by marked edema, demyelination and necrosis and perivascular infiltrates of 6-10 layers of lymphocytes and plasm cells affecting both the white and gray matter. Several plasm cells in the inflammatory infiltrate contained numerous eosinophilic globules in their cytoplasm (Mott cells). Similar histological lesions were observed in the spinal cord of the horse with the “dog-seating position”. The brains of five horses with the encephalic signs were submitted to immunohistochemistry stain by the streptavidin-biotin technique. In all of those five brains moderate to abundant specimens of T. evansi in the perivascular spaces and neuropile were marked by the specific antibody. Epidemiological, clinical, hematological, and pathological aspects of equine trypanosomiasis caused by T. evansi are discussed.

• Trypanosomiasis Trypanosoma evansi infectious diseases encephalitis hematology pathology diseases of horses.

Abstract in Portuguese:

Rodrigues A., Fighera R.A., Souza T.M., Schild A.L., Soares M.P., Milano J. & Barros C.S.L. 2005. [Outbreaks of trypanosomiasis in horses by Trypanosoma evansi in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil: epidemiological, clinical, hematological, and pathological aspects.] Surtos de tripanossomíase por Trypanosoma evansi em eqüinos no Rio Grande do Sul: aspectos epidemiológicos, clínicos, hematológicos e patológicos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 25(4):239-249. Depto Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900 Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: claudioslbarros@uol.com.br Cases of trypanosomiasis by Trypanosoma evansi were diagnosed in horses in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, between 2003 and 2004. In one stud farm (Farm A) with 125 horses, 52 died. Additionally, around 80 mares were sent to Farm A to be bred. Of those, 66 became ill and 56 died after being returned to their farms of origin. Twenty one horses clinically affected by the disease were observed. Clinical signs included loss of weight (despite voracious appetite), lethargy, incoordination and instability of hindlimbs, atrophy of the large muscles of the hindlimbs, muscle weakness and paleness of mucosae. Specimens of T. evansi were detected in the blood drawn from four affected horses. Normocytic normochromic anemia with PCVs ranging from 15 to 31%, leucocytosis due to lymphocytosis associated to large atypical lymphocytes was observed in several affected horses. High levels of antibodies against T. evansi were detected in the serum of six horses from Farm A. Eight horses presented encephalic neurological signs such as circling, ataxia, blindness, excitation, falls, listlessness, proprioception deficits and head tilt. One horse assumed a “dog-seating position”. Necropsy findings included muscle atrophy, enlargement and lymphoid hyperplasia of the spleen and lymphnodes, edema and softening of the white and grey matter of the brain. Histologically, an overwhelming necrotizing panencephalitis was observed in the seven horses with encephalic signs. This panencephalitis was characterized by marked edema, demyelination and necrosis and perivascular infiltrates of 6-10 layers of lymphocytes and plasm cells affecting both the white and gray matter. Several plasm cells in the inflammatory infiltrate contained numerous eosinophilic globules in their cytoplasm (Mott cells). Similar histological lesions were observed in the spinal cord of the horse with the “dog-seating position”. The brains of five horses with the encephalic signs were submitted to immunohistochemistry stain by the streptavidin-biotin technique. In all of those five brains moderate to abundant specimens of T. evansi in the perivascular spaces and neuropile were marked by the specific antibody. Epidemiological, clinical, hematological, and pathological aspects of equine trypanosomiasis caused by T. evansi are discussed.

Abstract in English:

Tancredi M.G.F., Faccini J.L.H., Tancredi I.P., Martins I.V.F. & Scott F.B. 2005. [The host-relationship between Psoroptes equi and horses.] Relação parasito-hospedeiro entre Psoroptes equi e eqüinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 25(4):207-209. Departamento de Parasitologia Animal, Instituto de Veterinária, Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro, Seropédica, RJ 23890-000, Brazil. E-mail: faccini@ufrrj.br Horses, abandoned by their owners (stray horses) along the main roads in the state of Rio de Janeiro, southeastern Brazil, and brought by the Federal Police to a quarantine station at the Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro, were included in the study. A total of 1,121 horses were examined from November 1998 to November 2000. Skin scrapings from 107 (9.5%) horses with signs of psoroptic mange resulted in 37 (34.6%) positive animals for Psoroptes equi. There was no statistical correlation between prevalence and host age or sex (c2, p>0,05). P. equi was diagnosed in animals with different hair color. The dorsal region (withers to hip) was the most affected area of the body.

• Psoroptes equi Acari Psoroptidae mange horses Brazil.

Abstract in Portuguese:

Tancredi M.G.F., Faccini J.L.H., Tancredi I.P., Martins I.V.F. & Scott F.B. 2005. [The host-relationship between Psoroptes equi and horses.] Relação parasito-hospedeiro entre Psoroptes equi e eqüinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 25(4):207-209. Departamento de Parasitologia Animal, Instituto de Veterinária, Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro, Seropédica, RJ 23890-000, Brazil. E-mail: faccini@ufrrj.br Horses, abandoned by their owners (stray horses) along the main roads in the state of Rio de Janeiro, southeastern Brazil, and brought by the Federal Police to a quarantine station at the Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro, were included in the study. A total of 1,121 horses were examined from November 1998 to November 2000. Skin scrapings from 107 (9.5%) horses with signs of psoroptic mange resulted in 37 (34.6%) positive animals for Psoroptes equi. There was no statistical correlation between prevalence and host age or sex (c2, p>0,05). P. equi was diagnosed in animals with different hair color. The dorsal region (withers to hip) was the most affected area of the body.

Abstract in English:

Lima E.F., Riet-Correa F., Castro R.S., Gomes A.A.B. & Lima F.S. 2005. [Clinical signs, distribution of the lesions in the central nervous system and epidemiology of rabies in northeastern Brazil.] Sinais clínicos, distribuição das lesões no sistema nervoso e epidemiologia da raiva em herbívoros na região Nordeste do Brasil. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 25(4):250-264. Centro de Saúde e Tecnologia Rural, Campus de Patos, Universidade Federal de Campina Grande, Patos, PB 58700-000, Brazil. E-mail: riet@cstr.ufcg.br Twenty four outbreaks of rabies in cattle, 4 in horses, 2 in sheep, and 2 in goats are reported in northeastern Brazil. All outbreaks occurred in the state of Paraíba, except one in horses that occurred in the state of Rio Grande do Norte. All outbreaks, except one in sheep, were probably transmitted by vampire-bats, but the transmission by foxes (Dusicyon vetulus) is also possible. Clinical signs were characteristic for distribution of the lesions in the central nervous system (CNS). In cattle, signs were mainly of the paralytic form of rabies, caused by lesions on the spinal cord, brain stem and cerebellum; but some animals showed also depression, excitation and other signs due to cerebral lesions. In 3 out of 5 horses, the main clinical signs were due to lesions in the cerebrum, and 2 had the paralytic form. From 4 sheep and 2 goats affected, 4 showed clinical signs of the paralytic form; but in 1 goat and 1 sheep the main clinical signs were caused by cerebral lesions. All affected animals, except 1 goat, had a clinical manifestation period of 2-8 days. The only gross lesions were distention of the urinary bladder in 4 cattle and distention of the rectum in 2 others. Two horses had skin lesions due to traumatic injury. Histologic lesions were diffuse non-suppurative encephalomyelitis and meningitis. In the horses, and in one goat with a clinical manifestation period of 35 days, the lesions were more severe, with neuronal necrosis, neuronophagia, and presence of axonal spheroids. Negri bodies were found in 87% (20/23) of the cattle cases examined histologically. In small ruminants Negri bodies were found in 83% (5/6) of the cases. In sheep, goats and cattle, Negri bodies were more frequent in the cerebellum, but they were found also in brain stem, spinal cord and cerebrum. In horses, Negri bodies were found in small amounts only in the cortex of one animal, and in the cortex and hippocampus of another. Histologic lesions and Negri bodies in the trigeminal ganglia were less frequent than in the CNS. These results show that in rabies of herbivores, clinical signs and distribution of lesions in the CNS are variable, so that for the diagnosis and adequate clinical evaluation and the histologic study of different areas of the CNS are necessary. This also suggests that when the fluorescent antibody test and mouse inoculation test are negative, they should be repeated with samples from different areas of the brain and spinal cord. Frequency data of diseases from 4 diagnostic laboratories were used to estimate cattle deaths due to rabies in 3 Brazilian states. In Paraíba, with a population of 918,262 cattle, the annual death rate is estimated in 8,609 heads. In Mato Grosso do Sul, with a population of 23 millions cattle, deaths caused by rabies are estimated in 149,500 heads, and in Rio Grande do Sul, with a cattle population of 13 millions, cattle deaths due to rabies are estimated in 13,000 to 16,250 heads. If these data are used to estimate cattle losses in Brazil, with a cattle population of 195 millions, it can be estimated that 842,688 deaths are caused annually by rabies.

• Rabies cattle sheep goats horses pathology clinical signs economical impact.

Abstract in Portuguese:

Lima E.F., Riet-Correa F., Castro R.S., Gomes A.A.B. & Lima F.S. 2005. [Clinical signs, distribution of the lesions in the central nervous system and epidemiology of rabies in northeastern Brazil.] Sinais clínicos, distribuição das lesões no sistema nervoso e epidemiologia da raiva em herbívoros na região Nordeste do Brasil. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 25(4):250-264. Centro de Saúde e Tecnologia Rural, Campus de Patos, Universidade Federal de Campina Grande, Patos, PB 58700-000, Brazil. E-mail: riet@cstr.ufcg.br Twenty four outbreaks of rabies in cattle, 4 in horses, 2 in sheep, and 2 in goats are reported in northeastern Brazil. All outbreaks occurred in the state of Paraíba, except one in horses that occurred in the state of Rio Grande do Norte. All outbreaks, except one in sheep, were probably transmitted by vampire-bats, but the transmission by foxes (Dusicyon vetulus) is also possible. Clinical signs were characteristic for distribution of the lesions in the central nervous system (CNS). In cattle, signs were mainly of the paralytic form of rabies, caused by lesions on the spinal cord, brain stem and cerebellum; but some animals showed also depression, excitation and other signs due to cerebral lesions. In 3 out of 5 horses, the main clinical signs were due to lesions in the cerebrum, and 2 had the paralytic form. From 4 sheep and 2 goats affected, 4 showed clinical signs of the paralytic form; but in 1 goat and 1 sheep the main clinical signs were caused by cerebral lesions. All affected animals, except 1 goat, had a clinical manifestation period of 2-8 days. The only gross lesions were distention of the urinary bladder in 4 cattle and distention of the rectum in 2 others. Two horses had skin lesions due to traumatic injury. Histologic lesions were diffuse non-suppurative encephalomyelitis and meningitis. In the horses, and in one goat with a clinical manifestation period of 35 days, the lesions were more severe, with neuronal necrosis, neuronophagia, and presence of axonal spheroids. Negri bodies were found in 87% (20/23) of the cattle cases examined histologically. In small ruminants Negri bodies were found in 83% (5/6) of the cases. In sheep, goats and cattle, Negri bodies were more frequent in the cerebellum, but they were found also in brain stem, spinal cord and cerebrum. In horses, Negri bodies were found in small amounts only in the cortex of one animal, and in the cortex and hippocampus of another. Histologic lesions and Negri bodies in the trigeminal ganglia were less frequent than in the CNS. These results show that in rabies of herbivores, clinical signs and distribution of lesions in the CNS are variable, so that for the diagnosis and adequate clinical evaluation and the histologic study of different areas of the CNS are necessary. This also suggests that when the fluorescent antibody test and mouse inoculation test are negative, they should be repeated with samples from different areas of the brain and spinal cord. Frequency data of diseases from 4 diagnostic laboratories were used to estimate cattle deaths due to rabies in 3 Brazilian states. In Paraíba, with a population of 918,262 cattle, the annual death rate is estimated in 8,609 heads. In Mato Grosso do Sul, with a population of 23 millions cattle, deaths caused by rabies are estimated in 149,500 heads, and in Rio Grande do Sul, with a cattle population of 13 millions, cattle deaths due to rabies are estimated in 13,000 to 16,250 heads. If these data are used to estimate cattle losses in Brazil, with a cattle population of 195 millions, it can be estimated that 842,688 deaths are caused annually by rabies.

Abstract in English:

Nobre V.M.T., Riet-Correa F., Barbosa Filho J.M., Dantas A.F.M., Tabosa I.M. & Vasconcelos J.S. 2004. [Poisoning by Crotalaria retusa (Fabaceae) in Equidae in the semiarid region of Paraíba.] Intoxicação por Crotalaria retusa (Fabaceae) em eqüídeos no semi-árido da Paraíba. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 24(3):132-143. Depto Clínicas Veteri-nárias, Universidade Federal de Campina Grande, Patos, PB 58700-000, Brazil. E-mail: verônica.nobre@uol.com.br From 2000 to 2003 eight cases of poisoning by Crotalaria retusa L. were observed in horses on 8 farms in the semiarid region of Paraíba and Ceará. C. retusa was found in all farms. The main clinical signs were characteristic of hepatic encephalopathy, with dullness or hyperexcitability, head pressing, compulsive walking or circling and, occasionally, violent uncontrollable galloping. Decreased cranial nerve reflexes, ataxia and weakness were also observed. Other clinical signs were anorexia, weight loss, photosensitization and jaundice. The clinical manifestation period varied from 4 to 40 days, but most horses had a previous history of weight loss. At necropsy the livers were hard, with irregular surface and white areas mixed with dark red areas and increased lobular pattern. Mild jaundice, ascitis, hydropericardium and hydrothorax were also observed. Edema and moderate congestion were seen in the lungs. Histologic changes of the liver were characterized by fibrosis, mainly periportal, megalocitosis and bile duct cell proliferation. Multifocal areas of centrilobular or midzonal hemorrhages were also observed. Centrilobular hemorrhagic necrosis was present in two horses. Alzheimer type II astrocytes were observed, isolated or in groups, mainly in the caudate nucleus and cortex in 4 horses. The poisoning was experimentally produced in 1 adult horse and 3 adult donkeys. The horse received daily 100 g of C. retusa seeds and died 52 days after the beginning of the experiment. The dried whole C. retusa was mixed with grass and given to the 3 experimental donkeys at daily doses of 10g/kg, 5g/kg and 2.5g/kg, respectively. The donkey treated with 5g per kg died 48 days after beginning of the experiment and the other two were sacrificed at 120 days. Clinical signs and pathology were similar to those observed in spontaneous cases, but Alhzeimer type II astrocytes were observed only in the donkey that died 48 days after the beginning of ingestion of the plant material. The concentration of monocrotaline in the whole plant given to the donkeys was 0.5%.

• Poisonous plants plant poisoning Crotalaria retusa Fabaceae hepatic cirrhosis horse pirrolizidine alkaloids.

Abstract in Portuguese:

Nobre V.M.T., Riet-Correa F., Barbosa Filho J.M., Dantas A.F.M., Tabosa I.M. & Vasconcelos J.S. 2004. [Poisoning by Crotalaria retusa (Fabaceae) in Equidae in the semiarid region of Paraíba.] Intoxicação por Crotalaria retusa (Fabaceae) em eqüídeos no semi-árido da Paraíba. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 24(3):132-143. Depto Clínicas Veteri-nárias, Universidade Federal de Campina Grande, Patos, PB 58700-000, Brazil. E-mail: verônica.nobre@uol.com.br From 2000 to 2003 eight cases of poisoning by Crotalaria retusa L. were observed in horses on 8 farms in the semiarid region of Paraíba and Ceará. C. retusa was found in all farms. The main clinical signs were characteristic of hepatic encephalopathy, with dullness or hyperexcitability, head pressing, compulsive walking or circling and, occasionally, violent uncontrollable galloping. Decreased cranial nerve reflexes, ataxia and weakness were also observed. Other clinical signs were anorexia, weight loss, photosensitization and jaundice. The clinical manifestation period varied from 4 to 40 days, but most horses had a previous history of weight loss. At necropsy the livers were hard, with irregular surface and white areas mixed with dark red areas and increased lobular pattern. Mild jaundice, ascitis, hydropericardium and hydrothorax were also observed. Edema and moderate congestion were seen in the lungs. Histologic changes of the liver were characterized by fibrosis, mainly periportal, megalocitosis and bile duct cell proliferation. Multifocal areas of centrilobular or midzonal hemorrhages were also observed. Centrilobular hemorrhagic necrosis was present in two horses. Alzheimer type II astrocytes were observed, isolated or in groups, mainly in the caudate nucleus and cortex in 4 horses. The poisoning was experimentally produced in 1 adult horse and 3 adult donkeys. The horse received daily 100 g of C. retusa seeds and died 52 days after the beginning of the experiment. The dried whole C. retusa was mixed with grass and given to the 3 experimental donkeys at daily doses of 10g/kg, 5g/kg and 2.5g/kg, respectively. The donkey treated with 5g per kg died 48 days after beginning of the experiment and the other two were sacrificed at 120 days. Clinical signs and pathology were similar to those observed in spontaneous cases, but Alhzeimer type II astrocytes were observed only in the donkey that died 48 days after the beginning of ingestion of the plant material. The concentration of monocrotaline in the whole plant given to the donkeys was 0.5%.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Mota, M.A., Campos, A.K. &Araújo, J.V. [Biological control of helminth parasites of animais: Current stage and future outlook. A review.] Controle biológico de helmintos parasitos de animais: estágio atual e perspectivas futuras. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 23(3):93-100. Depto Parasitologia, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Cx. Postal 486, Belo Horizonte, MG 31270-901, Brazil.E-mail:mmot@icb.ufmg.br Biological control is a non-chemical alternative method with its main goal to reduce the amount of parasite population using natural antagonists. The administration of nematophagous fungi to animais has been considered an alternative in gastrointestinal helminthiasis prophylaxis. The nematophagous fungi produce trap-shaped structures, which are responsible for capturing and destroying the free-living stages of nematodes. The genera Arthrobotrys, Duddingtonia and Monacrosporium has been shown efficacy in laboratory and field experiments against cattle, equine, ovine and swine parasites. Severa) fungi formulations have been evaluated, but there is so far no commercial product available. The association of research groups with industry could improve the successful implementation of this control method.

• Biological control gastrointestinal helminths prophylaxis Controle biológico helmintos gastrintestinais profilaxia.

Abstract in Portuguese:

RESUMO.- Mota, M.A., Campos, A.K. & Araújo, J.V. [Biological control of helminth parasites of animais: Current stage and future outlook. A review.] Controle biológico de helmintos parasitos de animais: estágio atual e perspectivas futuras. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 23(3):93-100. Depto Parasitologia, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Cx. Postal 486, Belo Horizonte, MG 31270-901, Brazil.E-mail:mmot@icb.ufmg.br O controle biológico é um método desenvolvido para diminuir uma população de parasitas pela utilização de antagonista natural. A administração de fungos nematófagos aos animais domésticos é considerada uma promissora alternativa na profilaxia das helmintíases gastrintestinais parasitárias. Os fungos nematófagos desenvolvem estruturas em forma de armadilhas, responsáveis pela captura e destruição dos estágios infectantes dos nematóides. Os fungos dos gêneros Arthrobotrys, Duddingtonia e Monacrosporium têm demonstrado eficácia em experimentos laboratoriais e no campo no controle de parasitos de bovinos, eqüinos, ovinos e suínos. Diversas formulações fúngicas têm sido avaliadas, no entanto, ainda não há nenhum produto comercial disponível. A associação dos grupos de pesquisa e o envolvimento das indústrias poderão colaborar para o sucesso na implementação desta forma de controle.