PESQUISA VETERINÁRIA BRASILEIRA

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Lisbôa R.S., Guedes Júnior D.S., Silva F.J.M., Cunha N.C., Machado C.H. & Fonseca A.H. 2008. [Alterations in hematological parameters of Gallus gallus domesticus experimentally infected with Borrelia anserina.] Alterações nos parâmetros hematológicos de Gallus gallus domesticus experimentalmente infectados por Borrelia anserina. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(10):527-532. Curso de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Veterinárias, Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro, Seropédica, RJ 23890-000, Brazil. E-mail: raquellisboa@ufrrj.br Avian spirochaetosis is a cosmopolite acute septicemic disease of many avian species, caused by Borrelia anserina Sakharoff, 1891. The present study assesses the estimate of the hematological alterations of Gallus gallus domesticus experimentally infected with B. anserina by vector Argas (Persicargas) miniatus. Twenty-seven fowls of the species G. g. domesticus, 67 days old, were randomly allocated into three groups composed by nine animals each. One group was exposed to B. anserina infected ticks (Group 1), other one to ticks free of this agent (Group 2), and another group not exposed to ticks (Group 3). Blood smears of the fowls were taken daily, since the first day the fowls were exposed to the ticks, up to the 25th day after exposure (DAE). Blood samples were collected three days before exposure, and three, eight and 18 DAE, for hematologic tests. The examination of Group 1 smears revealed large number of spirochaetes. Group 2 and 3 blood smears were negative during the whole period under exam. In agreement with the hematological evaluation results, the fowls exposed to infected ticks showed a normocytic normochromic anemia in eight DAE, leucocytosis with heterophilia and monocytosis concomitant with the spirochaetemia. We concluded that B. anserina infection determined on fowls of Group 1 hematological alterations compatible with bacterial infection of moderate gravity, developing to self-cure, in the experimental conditions established in this study.

• Borrelia anserina Argas (Persicargas) miniatus avian hematology domestic fowls avian spirochaetosis

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Lisbôa R.S., Guedes Júnior D.S., Silva F.J.M., Cunha N.C., Machado C.H. & Fonseca A.H. 2008. [Alterations in hematological parameters of Gallus gallus domesticus experimentally infected with Borrelia anserina.] Alterações nos parâmetros hematológicos de Gallus gallus domesticus experimentalmente infectados por Borrelia anserina. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(10):527-532. Curso de Pós-Graduação em Ciências Veterinárias, Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro, Seropédica, RJ 23890-000, Brazil. E-mail: raquellisboa@ufrrj.br Avian spirochaetosis is a cosmopolite acute septicemic disease of many avian species, caused by Borrelia anserina Sakharoff, 1891. The present study assesses the estimate of the hematological alterations of Gallus gallus domesticus experimentally infected with B. anserina by vector Argas (Persicargas) miniatus. Twenty-seven fowls of the species G. g. domesticus, 67 days old, were randomly allocated into three groups composed by nine animals each. One group was exposed to B. anserina infected ticks (Group 1), other one to ticks free of this agent (Group 2), and another group not exposed to ticks (Group 3). Blood smears of the fowls were taken daily, since the first day the fowls were exposed to the ticks, up to the 25th day after exposure (DAE). Blood samples were collected three days before exposure, and three, eight and 18 DAE, for hematologic tests. The examination of Group 1 smears revealed large number of spirochaetes. Group 2 and 3 blood smears were negative during the whole period under exam. In agreement with the hematological evaluation results, the fowls exposed to infected ticks showed a normocytic normochromic anemia in eight DAE, leucocytosis with heterophilia and monocytosis concomitant with the spirochaetemia. We concluded that B. anserina infection determined on fowls of Group 1 hematological alterations compatible with bacterial infection of moderate gravity, developing to self-cure, in the experimental conditions established in this study.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Costa M.C., Flaiban K.K.M.C., Coneglian M.M., Feitosa F.L.F., Balarin M.R.S. & Lisbôa J.A.N. 2008. [Passive transfer of immunity in Nelore and Limousin calves and serum proteinogram in the first four months of life.] Transferência de imunidade passiva em bezerros das raças Nelore e Limousin e proteinograma sérico nos primeiros quatro meses de vida. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(9):410-416. Departamento de Clínicas Veterinárias, Centro de Ciências Agrárias, Universidade Estadual de Londrina, Campus Universitário, Cx. Postal 6001, Londrina, PR 86051-990, Brazil. E-mail: janlisboa@uel.br To study the passive transfer of immunity, 90 healthy calves, 45 Nelore and 45 Limousin, were grouped (n=15) according to their dam’s parity: first, second or third or more calvings. Blood samples were draw from each calf with 24 to 36 hours of life and 15, 30, 60, 90, and 120 days. The total serum (TSP) and plasma (TPP) proteins, gamaglutamiltransferase activity (GGT), serum albumin, alpha, beta and gammaglobulin by electrophoresis in agarose gel and IgG estimated by the zinc sulphate turbidity test were determined. Two-way-ANOVA was used to compare the data in the first age. The age behaviour was analysed through repeated measures ANOVA. Correlations were established between the variables. The passive transfer of immunity was successful in both breeds and the parity of the dam had no effect on the calves’ serum gammaglobulin concentration. The levels of gammaglobulins were higher at the end of the first day of life, and decreased until 60 days. From there on, the increase due to the active production of antibodies was precocious in taurine calves and slower in Zebu calves. At the end of the first day of life, the gammaglobulin was correlated with IgG (r=0,859), TPP (r=0,807), TSP (r=0,811) and GGT (r=0,399). The variation of serum proteins followed the normal pattern throughout the first four months of life, with little differences between taurine and Zebu calves.

• Calves Zebu taurine serum proteins immunoglobulins

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Costa M.C., Flaiban K.K.M.C., Coneglian M.M., Feitosa F.L.F., Balarin M.R.S. & Lisbôa J.A.N. 2008. [Passive transfer of immunity in Nelore and Limousin calves and serum proteinogram in the first four months of life.] Transferência de imunidade passiva em bezerros das raças Nelore e Limousin e proteinograma sérico nos primeiros quatro meses de vida. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(9):410-416. Departamento de Clínicas Veterinárias, Centro de Ciências Agrárias, Universidade Estadual de Londrina, Campus Universitário, Cx. Postal 6001, Londrina, PR 86051-990, Brazil. E-mail: janlisboa@uel.br To study the passive transfer of immunity, 90 healthy calves, 45 Nelore and 45 Limousin, were grouped (n=15) according to their dam’s parity: first, second or third or more calvings. Blood samples were draw from each calf with 24 to 36 hours of life and 15, 30, 60, 90, and 120 days. The total serum (TSP) and plasma (TPP) proteins, gamaglutamiltransferase activity (GGT), serum albumin, alpha, beta and gammaglobulin by electrophoresis in agarose gel and IgG estimated by the zinc sulphate turbidity test were determined. Two-way-ANOVA was used to compare the data in the first age. The age behaviour was analysed through repeated measures ANOVA. Correlations were established between the variables. The passive transfer of immunity was successful in both breeds and the parity of the dam had no effect on the calves’ serum gammaglobulin concentration. The levels of gammaglobulins were higher at the end of the first day of life, and decreased until 60 days. From there on, the increase due to the active production of antibodies was precocious in taurine calves and slower in Zebu calves. At the end of the first day of life, the gammaglobulin was correlated with IgG (r=0,859), TPP (r=0,807), TSP (r=0,811) and GGT (r=0,399). The variation of serum proteins followed the normal pattern throughout the first four months of life, with little differences between taurine and Zebu calves.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Blagitz M.G., Batista C.F., Souza F.N., Benites N.R., Melville P.A., Stricagnolo C.R., Ricciardi M., Gomes V., Azedo M.R., Sanches B.G.S. & Della Libera A.M.M.P. 2008. [Cellular and microbiological profile of Santa Ines ewes in the lactation and the post-weaning period.] Perfil celular e microbiológico de ovelhas Santa Inês no período lactante e pós-desmame. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(9):417-422. Departamento de Clínica Médica, 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: magblagitz@usp.br The aim was to evaluate and compare the microbiological and cellular profile of the milk of Santa Ines ewes during the lactation period and the active involution. Milk samples were analyzed from 12 ewes during these distinct periods. Clinical examination of the mammary gland, somatic cell count (SCC), California Mastitis Test (CMT), bacteriologic screening and sensibility of the pathogens in vitro were performed. Most alterations were observed in the active involution period. SCC and CMT were higher in this same period. Besides this, a high persistency of infection occurred. The active involution period did not show high susceptibility. Coagulase-negative staphylococci were the only isolated bacteria. A high antimicrobial sensibility of these pathogens was also encountered.

• Mastitis ewes involution lactation staphylococci

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Blagitz M.G., Batista C.F., Souza F.N., Benites N.R., Melville P.A., Stricagnolo C.R., Ricciardi M., Gomes V., Azedo M.R., Sanches B.G.S. & Della Libera A.M.M.P. 2008. [Cellular and microbiological profile of Santa Ines ewes in the lactation and the post-weaning period.] Perfil celular e microbiológico de ovelhas Santa Inês no período lactante e pós-desmame. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(9):417-422. Departamento de Clínica Médica, 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: magblagitz@usp.br The aim was to evaluate and compare the microbiological and cellular profile of the milk of Santa Ines ewes during the lactation period and the active involution. Milk samples were analyzed from 12 ewes during these distinct periods. Clinical examination of the mammary gland, somatic cell count (SCC), California Mastitis Test (CMT), bacteriologic screening and sensibility of the pathogens in vitro were performed. Most alterations were observed in the active involution period. SCC and CMT were higher in this same period. Besides this, a high persistency of infection occurred. The active involution period did not show high susceptibility. Coagulase-negative staphylococci were the only isolated bacteria. A high antimicrobial sensibility of these pathogens was also encountered.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Costa M.C., Flaiban K.K.M.C., Coneglian M.M., Dognani R., Vettorato E.D., Balarin M.R.S. & Lisbôa J.A.N. 2008. [Neutrophil oxidative burst in Nelore and Limousin calves in the first four months of life.] Metabolismo oxidativo dos neutrófilos de bezerros das raças Nelore e Limousin nos primeiros quatro meses de vida. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(9):431-436. Departamento de Clínicas Veterinárias, Centro de Ciências Agrárias, Universidade Estadual de Londrina, Campus Universitário, Cx. Postal 6001, Londrina, PR 86051-990, Brazil. E-mail: janlisboa@uel.br To study some defence mechanisms of beef calves kept on range conditions, 90 healthy calves, 45 Nelore and 45 Limousin, were bled at 24 to 36 hours of life, 15, 30, 60, 90 and, 120 days. Leukogram and neutrophil oxidative burst through the non-stimulated and the stimulated NBT tests were determined. The parasitemia with Anaplasma marginale, Babesia bigemina and B. bovis was investigated. Repeated measure ANOVA was used to analyse the age effect on leukocyte counts. Variation of positive neutrophil throughout the age was analysed through Krushkal-Wallis test. Comparisons among breeds were done using the Mann-Whithney test. The white blood cell count increased with age in both breeds, with a decrease in neutrophil and an increase in lymphocyte counts. The neutrophil lymphocyte ratio had been inverted before 15 days of life. The neutrophil oxidative burst was less effective in the newborn calves increasing with age. Limousin calves’ neutrophils had higher capacity to reduce NBT in advanced ages. The observed differences between taurine and Zebu calves had no effects on calves’ health and could be atributed to Anaplasma marginale natural and asynptomatic infection.

• Beef calf Zebu taurine NBT Anaplasma marginale

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Costa M.C., Flaiban K.K.M.C., Coneglian M.M., Dognani R., Vettorato E.D., Balarin M.R.S. & Lisbôa J.A.N. 2008. [Neutrophil oxidative burst in Nelore and Limousin calves in the first four months of life.] Metabolismo oxidativo dos neutrófilos de bezerros das raças Nelore e Limousin nos primeiros quatro meses de vida. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(9):431-436. Departamento de Clínicas Veterinárias, Centro de Ciências Agrárias, Universidade Estadual de Londrina, Campus Universitário, Cx. Postal 6001, Londrina, PR 86051-990, Brazil. E-mail: janlisboa@uel.br To study some defence mechanisms of beef calves kept on range conditions, 90 healthy calves, 45 Nelore and 45 Limousin, were bled at 24 to 36 hours of life, 15, 30, 60, 90 and, 120 days. Leukogram and neutrophil oxidative burst through the non-stimulated and the stimulated NBT tests were determined. The parasitemia with Anaplasma marginale, Babesia bigemina and B. bovis was investigated. Repeated measure ANOVA was used to analyse the age effect on leukocyte counts. Variation of positive neutrophil throughout the age was analysed through Krushkal-Wallis test. Comparisons among breeds were done using the Mann-Whithney test. The white blood cell count increased with age in both breeds, with a decrease in neutrophil and an increase in lymphocyte counts. The neutrophil lymphocyte ratio had been inverted before 15 days of life. The neutrophil oxidative burst was less effective in the newborn calves increasing with age. Limousin calves’ neutrophils had higher capacity to reduce NBT in advanced ages. The observed differences between taurine and Zebu calves had no effects on calves’ health and could be atributed to Anaplasma marginale natural and asynptomatic infection.

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.- 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.- 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.- Caldas S.A., Tokarnia C.H., França T.N., Brito M.F., Graça F.A.S., Coelho C.D. & Peixoto P.V. 2008. [Clinic and pathological and laboratory aspects of experimental poisoning by Bothrops alternatus venom in cattle.] Aspectos clínico-patológicos e laboratoriais do envenenamento experimental por Bothrops alternatus em bovinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(6):303-312. Projeto Sanidade Animal Embrapa/UFRRJ, Seropédica, RJ 23890-000, Brazil. E-mail: saulo-andrade@bol.com.br The aim of this study was to determine the clinical-pathological alterations and laboratory findings in cattle inoculated with Bothrops alternatus venom, with the intention of providing information for the establishment of diagnosis and differential diagnosis procedures, as well as to elucidate some obscurities observed in the pertinent literature. The lyophilized venom was diluted in 1 ml of physiologic solution. It was administered to 5 bovines by the subcutaneous route at doses of 0.0625, 0.125 and 0.25mg/kg body weight, and to 2 bovines by the intramuscular route at doses of 0.25 e 0.45mg/kg. Six bovines died and the only animal that survived, who had subcutaneously received the venom at a dose of 0.0625mg/kg, recovered. The first clinical signs were observed from 25min to 5h30min after the inoculation. The clinical evolution time varied from 7 hours 18 minutes to 92 hours. Regardless of the dose, the clinical picture was characterized by swelling (hemorrhage/hematoma) at the site of inoculation, increase in bleeding time and capillary refill time, paleness of mucous membranes and apathy. The laboratory exams revealed progressive normocytic normochromic anemia, thrombocytopenia, reduction in fibrinogen and total plasma proteins, decreased hematocrit and hemoglobin, and slight increase in creatine kinase and lactate dehydrogenase. When subjected to necropsy, the animals that received the venom through the subcutaneous route showed large hematomas and hemorrhagic areas in the subcutaneous tissue, extending from the site of inoculation. The animals in which inoculation was performed intramuscularly exhibited, in addition, intramuscular hemorrhage. The left endocardium showed extensive hemorrhagic lesions, and petechiae were found on the serosae of rumen, omasum, abomasum and gall bladder. The colon, rectum and perirenal areas were surrounded by clotted blood in three animals. Besides hemorrhage, the histological examination revealed hemorrhage and coagulative muscle necrosis in the vicinities of the inoculation site in the animals that received the venom by the intramuscular route. These lesions were mild in the muscles close to the site of inoculation in the animals inoculated by the subcutaneous route. The swelling on the site of inoculation and its surroundings was a consequence of blood accumulation and not merely edema. Myoglobinuria and gross or microscopic lesions were not observed in the kidneys. This study indicates that B. alternatus can lead adult bovines to death if they release all their venom during a bite. Conversely, since venomous ophidians can control the amount of poison they inoculate and they probably do not identify bovines as potential preys, it is likely that the number of accidents involving this species is small, which is in agreement with the findings of the majority of the centers for anatomical-pathological diagnosis in Brazil.

• Bothrops alternatus cattle pathology symptoms

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Caldas S.A., Tokarnia C.H., França T.N., Brito M.F., Graça F.A.S., Coelho C.D. & Peixoto P.V. 2008. [Clinic and pathological and laboratory aspects of experimental poisoning by Bothrops alternatus venom in cattle.] Aspectos clínico-patológicos e laboratoriais do envenenamento experimental por Bothrops alternatus em bovinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(6):303-312. Projeto Sanidade Animal Embrapa/UFRRJ, Seropédica, RJ 23890-000, Brazil. E-mail: saulo-andrade@bol.com.br The aim of this study was to determine the clinical-pathological alterations and laboratory findings in cattle inoculated with Bothrops alternatus venom, with the intention of providing information for the establishment of diagnosis and differential diagnosis procedures, as well as to elucidate some obscurities observed in the pertinent literature. The lyophilized venom was diluted in 1 ml of physiologic solution. It was administered to 5 bovines by the subcutaneous route at doses of 0.0625, 0.125 and 0.25mg/kg body weight, and to 2 bovines by the intramuscular route at doses of 0.25 e 0.45mg/kg. Six bovines died and the only animal that survived, who had subcutaneously received the venom at a dose of 0.0625mg/kg, recovered. The first clinical signs were observed from 25min to 5h30min after the inoculation. The clinical evolution time varied from 7 hours 18 minutes to 92 hours. Regardless of the dose, the clinical picture was characterized by swelling (hemorrhage/hematoma) at the site of inoculation, increase in bleeding time and capillary refill time, paleness of mucous membranes and apathy. The laboratory exams revealed progressive normocytic normochromic anemia, thrombocytopenia, reduction in fibrinogen and total plasma proteins, decreased hematocrit and hemoglobin, and slight increase in creatine kinase and lactate dehydrogenase. When subjected to necropsy, the animals that received the venom through the subcutaneous route showed large hematomas and hemorrhagic areas in the subcutaneous tissue, extending from the site of inoculation. The animals in which inoculation was performed intramuscularly exhibited, in addition, intramuscular hemorrhage. The left endocardium showed extensive hemorrhagic lesions, and petechiae were found on the serosae of rumen, omasum, abomasum and gall bladder. The colon, rectum and perirenal areas were surrounded by clotted blood in three animals. Besides hemorrhage, the histological examination revealed hemorrhage and coagulative muscle necrosis in the vicinities of the inoculation site in the animals that received the venom by the intramuscular route. These lesions were mild in the muscles close to the site of inoculation in the animals inoculated by the subcutaneous route. The swelling on the site of inoculation and its surroundings was a consequence of blood accumulation and not merely edema. Myoglobinuria and gross or microscopic lesions were not observed in the kidneys. This study indicates that B. alternatus can lead adult bovines to death if they release all their venom during a bite. Conversely, since venomous ophidians can control the amount of poison they inoculate and they probably do not identify bovines as potential preys, it is likely that the number of accidents involving this species is small, which is in agreement with the findings of the majority of the centers for anatomical-pathological diagnosis in Brazil.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Pavarini S.P., Sonne L., Antoniassi N.A.B., Santos A.S., Pescador C.A., Corbellini L.G. & Driemeier D. 2008. [Congenital anomalies in aborted bovine fetuses in Southern Brazil.] Anomalias congênitas em fetos bovinos abortados no Sul do Brasil. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(3):149-154. Departamento de Patologia Clínica Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Av. Bento Gonçalves 9090, Porto Alegre, RS 91540-000, Brazil. E-mail: davetpat@ufrgs.br Abortion, stillbirth and neonatal death are important causes of production losses to the livestock industry. Abortions caused by congenital anomalies may occur sporadically, or appear in epidemics. This retrospective study was conducted at Laboratory of Veterinary Pathology of Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, and included 307 cases of bovine abortion submitted for diagnosis from September 2001 to March 2007. Most of them were from southern Brazil. Ten cases (3.25%) of congenital anomalies were seen. The most frequent congenital anomalies were artrogryposis, Amorphous globosus, and cleft palate (palatoschisis). Infectious causes were investigated, but only BVDV infection was detected by immunohistochemistry in one case, which was affected with porencephalia.

• Abortion bovine congenital anomalies

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Pavarini S.P., Sonne L., Antoniassi N.A.B., Santos A.S., Pescador C.A., Corbellini L.G. & Driemeier D. 2008. [Congenital anomalies in aborted bovine fetuses in Southern Brazil.] Anomalias congênitas em fetos bovinos abortados no Sul do Brasil. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(3):149-154. Departamento de Patologia Clínica Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Av. Bento Gonçalves 9090, Porto Alegre, RS 91540-000, Brazil. E-mail: davetpat@ufrgs.br Abortion, stillbirth and neonatal death are important causes of production losses to the livestock industry. Abortions caused by congenital anomalies may occur sporadically, or appear in epidemics. This retrospective study was conducted at Laboratory of Veterinary Pathology of Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, and included 307 cases of bovine abortion submitted for diagnosis from September 2001 to March 2007. Most of them were from southern Brazil. Ten cases (3.25%) of congenital anomalies were seen. The most frequent congenital anomalies were artrogryposis, Amorphous globosus, and cleft palate (palatoschisis). Infectious causes were investigated, but only BVDV infection was detected by immunohistochemistry in one case, which was affected with porencephalia.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- França T.N., Ribeiro C.T., Bezerra P.S., Döbereiner J., Cerqueira V.D. & Peixoto P.V. 2008. [Outbreaks of Proliferative Haemorrhagic Enteropathy (Lawsonia intracelullaris) in swine in Rio de Janeiro state.] Surtos de Enteropatia Proliferativa Hemorrágica (Lawsonia intracelullaris) em suínos no Estado do Rio de Janeiro. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(3):174-182. Centro de Ciências Biológicas e da Saúde, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Estácio de Sá, Rio de Janeiro, RJ 22783-320, Brazil. E-mail: ticianafranca@terra.com.br Outbreaks of infection of swine with Lawsonia intracelullaris in the state of Rio de Janeiro are described. The symptomathology was characterized by bloody diarrhea with peracute course. Postmortem findings were pale organs and tissues, reticulate aspect of the ileum with its mucosa moderately thickened nad contained large amounts of partially coagulated blood. Histopathological examination revealed hyperplastic epithelial cell proliferation of the Lieberkühn crypts, sometimes associated with inflammatory and necrotic alterations. Immunohistochemistry demonstrated the presence of large amounts of bacteria in the cytoplasm of the cryptal epithelial cells. L. intracellularis was also seen by ultramicroscopic examination. These outbreaks occurred in 1987 and this is the first report of the disease in the state of Rio de Janeiro.

• Lawsonia intracellularis Proliferative Haemorrhagic Enteropathy swine Rio de Janeiro

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- França T.N., Ribeiro C.T., Bezerra P.S., Döbereiner J., Cerqueira V.D. & Peixoto P.V. 2008. [Outbreaks of Proliferative Haemorrhagic Enteropathy (Lawsonia intracelullaris) in swine in Rio de Janeiro state.] Surtos de Enteropatia Proliferativa Hemorrágica (Lawsonia intracelullaris) em suínos no Estado do Rio de Janeiro. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(3):174-182. Centro de Ciências Biológicas e da Saúde, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Estácio de Sá, Rio de Janeiro, RJ 22783-320, Brazil. E-mail: ticianafranca@terra.com.br Outbreaks of infection of swine with Lawsonia intracelullaris in the state of Rio de Janeiro are described. The symptomathology was characterized by bloody diarrhea with peracute course. Postmortem findings were pale organs and tissues, reticulate aspect of the ileum with its mucosa moderately thickened nad contained large amounts of partially coagulated blood. Histopathological examination revealed hyperplastic epithelial cell proliferation of the Lieberkühn crypts, sometimes associated with inflammatory and necrotic alterations. Immunohistochemistry demonstrated the presence of large amounts of bacteria in the cytoplasm of the cryptal epithelial cells. L. intracellularis was also seen by ultramicroscopic examination. These outbreaks occurred in 1987 and this is the first report of the disease in the state of Rio de Janeiro.