PESQUISA VETERINÁRIA BRASILEIRA

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Almeida M.B., Tortelli F.P., Riet-Correa B., Ferreira J.L.M., Soares M.P., Farias N.A.R., Riet-Correa F. & Schild A.L. 2006. [Tick fever in southern Brazil: a retrospective study of 1978-2005.] Tristeza parasitária bovina na região sul do Rio Grande do Sul: estudo retrospectivo de 1978-2005. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(4):236-242. Laboratório Regional de Diagnóstico, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Campus Universitário s/n, Pelotas, RS 96010-900, Brazil. E-mail: alschild@terra.com.br A retrospective study of tick fever was made, which occurred from 1978-2005 in southern Rio Grande do Sul in the influence area of the Regional Diagnostic Laboratory of the Federal University of Pelotas. From 4,884 cattle specimens, sent by practitioners or which were from necropsies performed at the Diagnostic Laboratory, 231 (4.7%) were diagnosed as tick fever. Data from 221 of those outbreaks were analyzed. Ninety one (41.1%) outbreaks were caused by Babesia bovis, 11 (4.9%) by Babesia bigemina, and 65 (29.41%) by Anaplasma marginale. In other 33 (14.93%) outbreaks of babesiosis there is no information if the disease was caused by B. bovis or B. bigemina, and 21 (9.5%) outbreaks were caused by mixed infection of A. marginale and B. bovis or B. bigemina. Mean morbidity, mortality, and letality rates in 149 outbreaks were 11.17%, 6.81%, and 70.04%, respectively. Most outbreaks occurred during summer (January-March) and autumn (April-June), mainly in 1 to 3-year-old cattle. Clinical signs were depression, weakness, fallen ears, fever, and weight loss. Low packed cell volume values were always found. Hemoglobinury was observed in babesiosis. Neurological signs characterized by gait alterations, muscular tremors, aggressiveness and falling down with tonic and clonic convulsions were observed in babesiosis by B. bovis. The main gross lesions were anemia, jaundice, splenomegaly, hepatomegaly, yellow liver and cardiac hemorrhages. Hemoglobinury was observed in babesiosis, and congestion of the cerebral cortex in babesiosis by B. bovis. It is concluded that B. bovis is the main agent causing thick fever in southern Rio Grande do Sul. In that region with a cattle population of 2,630,000 heads the annual losses due to tick fever can be estimated in 6,220 cattle or US$ 1,623,000.00. Preventive measures to diminish tick fever losses in the region are necessary.

• Parasitic diseases tick fever epidemiology Babesia bovis Babesia bigemina Anaplasma marginale

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Almeida M.B., Tortelli F.P., Riet-Correa B., Ferreira J.L.M., Soares M.P., Farias N.A.R., Riet-Correa F. & Schild A.L. 2006. [Tick fever in southern Brazil: a retrospective study of 1978-2005.] Tristeza parasitária bovina na região sul do Rio Grande do Sul: estudo retrospectivo de 1978-2005. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(4):236-242. Laboratório Regional de Diagnóstico, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Campus Universitário s/n, Pelotas, RS 96010-900, Brazil. E-mail: alschild@terra.com.br A retrospective study of tick fever was made, which occurred from 1978-2005 in southern Rio Grande do Sul in the influence area of the Regional Diagnostic Laboratory of the Federal University of Pelotas. From 4,884 cattle specimens, sent by practitioners or which were from necropsies performed at the Diagnostic Laboratory, 231 (4.7%) were diagnosed as tick fever. Data from 221 of those outbreaks were analyzed. Ninety one (41.1%) outbreaks were caused by Babesia bovis, 11 (4.9%) by Babesia bigemina, and 65 (29.41%) by Anaplasma marginale. In other 33 (14.93%) outbreaks of babesiosis there is no information if the disease was caused by B. bovis or B. bigemina, and 21 (9.5%) outbreaks were caused by mixed infection of A. marginale and B. bovis or B. bigemina. Mean morbidity, mortality, and letality rates in 149 outbreaks were 11.17%, 6.81%, and 70.04%, respectively. Most outbreaks occurred during summer (January-March) and autumn (April-June), mainly in 1 to 3-year-old cattle. Clinical signs were depression, weakness, fallen ears, fever, and weight loss. Low packed cell volume values were always found. Hemoglobinury was observed in babesiosis. Neurological signs characterized by gait alterations, muscular tremors, aggressiveness and falling down with tonic and clonic convulsions were observed in babesiosis by B. bovis. The main gross lesions were anemia, jaundice, splenomegaly, hepatomegaly, yellow liver and cardiac hemorrhages. Hemoglobinury was observed in babesiosis, and congestion of the cerebral cortex in babesiosis by B. bovis. It is concluded that B. bovis is the main agent causing thick fever in southern Rio Grande do Sul. In that region with a cattle population of 2,630,000 heads the annual losses due to tick fever can be estimated in 6,220 cattle or US$ 1,623,000.00. Preventive measures to diminish tick fever losses in the region are necessary.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Schild A.L., Sallis E.S.V., Priebe A.P., Soares M.P., Almeida M.B., Ladeira S.R.L., Schramm R. & Riet-Correa F. 2006. Anthrax in cattle in southern Brazil: 1978-2006. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(4):243-248. Laboratório Regional de Diagnóstico, Faculdade de Veterinária, Univer-sidade Federal de Pelotas, Campus Universitário s/n, Pelotas, RS 96010-900, Brazil. E-mail: alschild@terra.com.br Ten outbreaks of anthrax occurred in cattle from 1978 to 2006 in southern Brazil, in 5 municipalities on the border with Uruguay, a country where the disease is frequent. The 10 outbreaks represented 0.2% of all bovine specimens received during the period by the Regional Diagnostic Laboratory of the Federal University of Pelotas, causing 267 deaths in a risk population of 6,605 head. The disease affected young and adult cattle mainly during summer. Only one farmer reported that sheep and horses were also affected. Clinically the peracute form was more frequent, but in some outbreaks the acute form with a clinical manifestation period of 6-48 hours was also observed. The source of infection was not established; but the reduced rainfall, associated with low, flat, flooded lands used for agriculture followed by animal grazing after harvest was probably related to the disease occurrence. Annual vaccination is an efficient way to prevent the disease.

• Anthrax Bacillus anthracis infectious disease disease of cattle

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Schild A.L., Sallis E.S.V., Priebe A.P., Soares M.P., Almeida M.B., Ladeira S.R.L., Schramm R. & Riet-Correa F. 2006. Anthrax in cattle in southern Brazil: 1978-2006. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(4):243-248. Laboratório Regional de Diagnóstico, Faculdade de Veterinária, Univer-sidade Federal de Pelotas, Campus Universitário s/n, Pelotas, RS 96010-900, Brazil. E-mail: alschild@terra.com.br Ten outbreaks of anthrax occurred in cattle from 1978 to 2006 in southern Brazil, in 5 municipalities on the border with Uruguay, a country where the disease is frequent. The 10 outbreaks represented 0.2% of all bovine specimens received during the period by the Regional Diagnostic Laboratory of the Federal University of Pelotas, causing 267 deaths in a risk population of 6,605 head. The disease affected young and adult cattle mainly during summer. Only one farmer reported that sheep and horses were also affected. Clinically the peracute form was more frequent, but in some outbreaks the acute form with a clinical manifestation period of 6-48 hours was also observed. The source of infection was not established; but the reduced rainfall, associated with low, flat, flooded lands used for agriculture followed by animal grazing after harvest was probably related to the disease occurrence. Annual vaccination is an efficient way to prevent the disease.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Guedes K.M.R., Schild A.L. Riet-Correa F., Barros S.S. & Simões S.V.D. 2006. [Spongious degeneration in the central nervous system in Sindhi calves]. Degeneração esponjosa no sistema nervoso central de bezerros da raça Sindhi. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(3):157-160. Centro de Saúde e Tecnologia Rural, Universidade Federal de Campina Grande, Campus de Patos, 58700-000 Patos, Paraíba, Brazil. E-mail franklin.riet@pesquisador.cnpq.br Spongy degeneration (status spongiosus) includes many histological alterations characterized by vacuoles in the neuropile in different regions of the central nervous system (CNS). The vacuolization can be caused by intramyelinic edema, as in maple syrup urine disease and some toxic diseases, or by astrocytic edema, as in citrullinemia. This paper reports a spongy degeneration in two Sindhi calves, a female and a male. Both calves were offspring from the same bull, and the herd had high degree of inbreeding. The female calf was born normal, but progressive nervous signs were observed since 2 months old. The male calf had progressive nervous signs since it was born. Both calves were euthanized with severe nervous signs when 4 months old. At necropsy the liver was pale in the male calf. Histological alterations were mild to accentuated vacuolization, mainly in the deep cerebral cortex, cerebellar white matter, grey matter of the spinal cord, internal capsule, and brain stem. Fatty degeneration was observed in the liver of both animals. On electron microscopy it was found that the status spongiosus was caused by astrocytic edema. It is suggested that the disease is caused by a metabolic hereditary error.

• Status spongiosus astrocytic edema congenital diseases cattle

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Guedes K.M.R., Schild A.L. Riet-Correa F., Barros S.S. & Simões S.V.D. 2006. [Spongious degeneration in the central nervous system in Sindhi calves]. Degeneração esponjosa no sistema nervoso central de bezerros da raça Sindhi. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(3):157-160. Centro de Saúde e Tecnologia Rural, Universidade Federal de Campina Grande, Campus de Patos, 58700-000 Patos, Paraíba, Brazil. E-mail franklin.riet@pesquisador.cnpq.br Spongy degeneration (status spongiosus) includes many histological alterations characterized by vacuoles in the neuropile in different regions of the central nervous system (CNS). The vacuolization can be caused by intramyelinic edema, as in maple syrup urine disease and some toxic diseases, or by astrocytic edema, as in citrullinemia. This paper reports a spongy degeneration in two Sindhi calves, a female and a male. Both calves were offspring from the same bull, and the herd had high degree of inbreeding. The female calf was born normal, but progressive nervous signs were observed since 2 months old. The male calf had progressive nervous signs since it was born. Both calves were euthanized with severe nervous signs when 4 months old. At necropsy the liver was pale in the male calf. Histological alterations were mild to accentuated vacuolization, mainly in the deep cerebral cortex, cerebellar white matter, grey matter of the spinal cord, internal capsule, and brain stem. Fatty degeneration was observed in the liver of both animals. On electron microscopy it was found that the status spongiosus was caused by astrocytic edema. It is suggested that the disease is caused by a metabolic hereditary error.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Moreira Souto M.A., Kommers G.D., Barros C.S.L., Piazer J.V.M., Rech R.R., Riet-Correa F. & Schild A.L. 2006. [Neoplasms of the upper digestive tract of cattle associated with spontaneous ingestion of bracken fern (Pteridium aquilinum).] Neoplasias do trato alimentar superior de bovinos associadas ao consumo espontâneo de samambaia (Pteridium aquilinum). Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(2):112-122. Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900 Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: glaukommers@yahoo.com Thirty bovine with neoplasms of the upper digestive tract (UDT) associated with spontaneous ingestion of bracken fern (Pteridium aquilinum) were studied. They were from 27 farms, located in the municipalities of Jaguari (23) and Nova Esperança do Sul (4), Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. The total cattle population in those farms was 1,090 and large amounts of bracken fern were found in the pastures. Twenty-six of the affected cattle were cows and four were castrated males, 3-13 years of age; most of them were 7-8 years old (46,6%). Clinical signs observed in the affected animals were progressive weight loss, absence of ruminal movements, cough, dysphagia, regurgitation, halitosis, diarrhea, and bloat. Less frequent signs were selective appetite, dyspnea, and salivation. Two bovine died and 28 were submitted to euthanasia in advanced stage of disease and necropsied. The main gross and microscopic alterations were found in identical areas of the UDT. They consisted of papillomas, transforming papillomas, and squamous cell carcinomas (SCCs). Metastases of SCCs to regional lymph nodes and other organs, such as liver and lungs, were also observed (18/30). Twenty-nine bovine had papillomas of various sizes in several areas of the UDT. The digestive papillomatosis ranged from mild (45%), to moderate (38%), to severe (17%). Three developing phases were observed microscopically in the examined papillomas: an early growing phase, a developing phase, and a regressing phase. In 16 cases, there was malignant transformation of papillomas into SCCs. The SCCs were solitary (12/30) or multiple (18/30) and were histologically well, moderately, or poorly differentiated. Grouping the distribution of SCCs of larger extension in the UDT into cranial region (base of the tongue, pharynx/oropharynx, and epiglottis), medial region (esophagus), and caudal region (cardia and rumen), the distribution was cranial in 39%, middle in 16%, and caudal in 45% of the cases. By the same grouping criteria, but considering the total number of times SCCs of varied extensions were diagnosed in the cranial, middle, and caudal regions, the percentages changed to 34%, 26%, and 40%, respectively. The epidemiological and histomorphological evidences found in this study are in agreement with the observations that point out the co-carcinogenesis between bovine papillomavirus type 4 infection and chemicals of bracken fern in the pathogenesis of the SCCs in the UDT of cattle. However, the presence of pre-neoplastic changes and SCCs in situ or in early stages of development, independently of the presence of papillomas, clearly indicates the possibility of development of SCCs from normal epithelium, probably due to the direct action of the chemical carcinogens contained in bracken fern.

• Poisonous plants Pteridium aquilinum plant poisoning bovine papillomavirus type 4 squamous cell carcinoma diseases of cattle pathology.

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Moreira Souto M.A., Kommers G.D., Barros C.S.L., Piazer J.V.M., Rech R.R., Riet-Correa F. & Schild A.L. 2006. [Neoplasms of the upper digestive tract of cattle associated with spontaneous ingestion of bracken fern (Pteridium aquilinum).] Neoplasias do trato alimentar superior de bovinos associadas ao consumo espontâneo de samambaia (Pteridium aquilinum). Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(2):112-122. Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900 Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: glaukommers@yahoo.com Thirty bovine with neoplasms of the upper digestive tract (UDT) associated with spontaneous ingestion of bracken fern (Pteridium aquilinum) were studied. They were from 27 farms, located in the municipalities of Jaguari (23) and Nova Esperança do Sul (4), Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. The total cattle population in those farms was 1,090 and large amounts of bracken fern were found in the pastures. Twenty-six of the affected cattle were cows and four were castrated males, 3-13 years of age; most of them were 7-8 years old (46,6%). Clinical signs observed in the affected animals were progressive weight loss, absence of ruminal movements, cough, dysphagia, regurgitation, halitosis, diarrhea, and bloat. Less frequent signs were selective appetite, dyspnea, and salivation. Two bovine died and 28 were submitted to euthanasia in advanced stage of disease and necropsied. The main gross and microscopic alterations were found in identical areas of the UDT. They consisted of papillomas, transforming papillomas, and squamous cell carcinomas (SCCs). Metastases of SCCs to regional lymph nodes and other organs, such as liver and lungs, were also observed (18/30). Twenty-nine bovine had papillomas of various sizes in several areas of the UDT. The digestive papillomatosis ranged from mild (45%), to moderate (38%), to severe (17%). Three developing phases were observed microscopically in the examined papillomas: an early growing phase, a developing phase, and a regressing phase. In 16 cases, there was malignant transformation of papillomas into SCCs. The SCCs were solitary (12/30) or multiple (18/30) and were histologically well, moderately, or poorly differentiated. Grouping the distribution of SCCs of larger extension in the UDT into cranial region (base of the tongue, pharynx/oropharynx, and epiglottis), medial region (esophagus), and caudal region (cardia and rumen), the distribution was cranial in 39%, middle in 16%, and caudal in 45% of the cases. By the same grouping criteria, but considering the total number of times SCCs of varied extensions were diagnosed in the cranial, middle, and caudal regions, the percentages changed to 34%, 26%, and 40%, respectively. The epidemiological and histomorphological evidences found in this study are in agreement with the observations that point out the co-carcinogenesis between bovine papillomavirus type 4 infection and chemicals of bracken fern in the pathogenesis of the SCCs in the UDT of cattle. However, the presence of pre-neoplastic changes and SCCs in situ or in early stages of development, independently of the presence of papillomas, clearly indicates the possibility of development of SCCs from normal epithelium, probably due to the direct action of the chemical carcinogens contained in bracken fern.

Abstract in English:

Méndez M.C., Elias F., Riet-Correa F., Gimeno E.J. & Portiansky E. 2006. [Experimental poisoning by fruits of Melia azedarach (Meliaceae) in pigs.] Intoxicação experimental com frutos de Melia azedarach (Meliaceae) em suínos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(1):26-30. Departamento de Clínicas Veterinárias, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, 96010-900 Pelotas, RS, Brazil. E-mail: nane@ufpel.tche.br Mature ground fruits of Melia azedarach were administered mixed with the food to 8 pigs at single doses of 5-20g/kg. Transient diarrhea was the only sign observed in the 2 pigs that ingested 5g/kg. Clinical signs observed in the pigs that ingested 10, 15 and 20 g/kg were incoordination, muscular tremors, difficulty to stand or to get up, sternal decubitus and hypothermia. The 2 pigs that ingested 20g/kg died. The gross lesions were congestion and necrosis of the small intestine and the stomach mucosa. The microscopic alterations were characterised by necrosis of the lymphatic tissues and skeletal muscles, congestion and necrosis of the stomach and small intestine, and moderate degenerative alterations of liver and kidneys. The serum levels of AST and CPK increased after the ingestion of the toxic fruits. High values of CPK were observed in the succumbing animals due to the muscle necrosis.These results demonstrate that the ingestion of high doses of Melia azedarach fruits by pigs may induce clinical signs of poisoning and cause lesions in several organs and even death.

• Poisonous plants plant poisoning Melia azedarach Meliaceae swine.

Abstract in Portuguese:

Méndez M.C., Elias F., Riet-Correa F., Gimeno E.J. & Portiansky E. 2006. [Experimental poisoning by fruits of Melia azedarach (Meliaceae) in pigs.] Intoxicação experimental com frutos de Melia azedarach (Meliaceae) em suínos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(1):26-30. Departamento de Clínicas Veterinárias, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, 96010-900 Pelotas, RS, Brazil. E-mail: nane@ufpel.tche.br Mature ground fruits of Melia azedarach were administered mixed with the food to 8 pigs at single doses of 5-20g/kg. Transient diarrhea was the only sign observed in the 2 pigs that ingested 5g/kg. Clinical signs observed in the pigs that ingested 10, 15 and 20 g/kg were incoordination, muscular tremors, difficulty to stand or to get up, sternal decubitus and hypothermia. The 2 pigs that ingested 20g/kg died. The gross lesions were congestion and necrosis of the small intestine and the stomach mucosa. The microscopic alterations were characterised by necrosis of the lymphatic tissues and skeletal muscles, congestion and necrosis of the stomach and small intestine, and moderate degenerative alterations of liver and kidneys. The serum levels of AST and CPK increased after the ingestion of the toxic fruits. High values of CPK were observed in the succumbing animals due to the muscle necrosis.These results demonstrate that the ingestion of high doses of Melia azedarach fruits by pigs may induce clinical signs of poisoning and cause lesions in several organs and even death.

Abstract in English:

Batista J.S., Riet-Correa F., Barbosa R.C. & Guerra J.L. 2006. [Experimental infection by Trypanosoma vivax in sheep.] Infecção experimental por Trypanosoma vivax em ovinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(1):31-37. Hospital Veterinário, Universidade Federal de Campina Grande, Campus de Patos, 58700-000 Patos, PB, Brazil. E-mail: franklin.riet@pesquisador.cnpq.br This paper has the objective to report clinical signs, hematologic changes, and macroscopic and microscopic alterations in sheep infected experimentally with Trypanosoma vivax, isolated from an outbreak in cattle in the semiarid region of the state of Paraíba, northeastern Brazil. Four Santa Inês sheep were inoculated intravenously with 1ml of blood containing 1.85x105 trypomastigotes. Other 4 sheep were used as control. The presence of trypanosomes in the blood and the temperature were recorded daily during the first 30 days and fortnightly from day 31 to day 90 after infection. Also fortnightly, the sheep were weighed and blood samples were obtained for hematological analysis. One inoculated sheep died 75 days after inoculation. The other 3 inoculated and the 4 control sheep were killed 90 days after the beginning of the experiment. T. vivax was observed constantly in the blood of the inoculated sheep from 4-15 days after inoculation. From day 16 to day 30 the parasitemia was lower and irregular. No trypanosomes were observed in the blood after 30 days of infection. A positive linear correlation [Y=0.027x + 38.515, R2=0.944 (P<0.05)] was found between the number of trypanosomes in the blood and body temperature. Significant differences were observed in body weight between inoculated and non-inoculated sheep from day 30 to day 90 after the experiment. From day 30 to day 90 after inoculation trypanosomes were absent or only in low numbers in the blood, and the animals showed anemia and leucopenia. Gross alterations were pale carcasses, enlarged lymph nodes and spleen, and augmented liquid in the peritoneal and pericardiac cavities. Multifocal lymphocytic myocarditis was observed histologically. It is concluded that the isolate is pathogenic to sheep. It is suggested that the semiarid region, where the outbreak occurred, is non-endemic (marginal) for trypanosomosis, and that the disease may occur if the parasite is introduced through vectors.

• Experimental infection Trypanosoma vivax sheep semiarid.

Abstract in Portuguese:

Batista J.S., Riet-Correa F., Barbosa R.C. & Guerra J.L. 2006. [Experimental infection by Trypanosoma vivax in sheep.] Infecção experimental por Trypanosoma vivax em ovinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(1):31-37. Hospital Veterinário, Universidade Federal de Campina Grande, Campus de Patos, 58700-000 Patos, PB, Brazil. E-mail: franklin.riet@pesquisador.cnpq.br This paper has the objective to report clinical signs, hematologic changes, and macroscopic and microscopic alterations in sheep infected experimentally with Trypanosoma vivax, isolated from an outbreak in cattle in the semiarid region of the state of Paraíba, northeastern Brazil. Four Santa Inês sheep were inoculated intravenously with 1ml of blood containing 1.85x105 trypomastigotes. Other 4 sheep were used as control. The presence of trypanosomes in the blood and the temperature were recorded daily during the first 30 days and fortnightly from day 31 to day 90 after infection. Also fortnightly, the sheep were weighed and blood samples were obtained for hematological analysis. One inoculated sheep died 75 days after inoculation. The other 3 inoculated and the 4 control sheep were killed 90 days after the beginning of the experiment. T. vivax was observed constantly in the blood of the inoculated sheep from 4-15 days after inoculation. From day 16 to day 30 the parasitemia was lower and irregular. No trypanosomes were observed in the blood after 30 days of infection. A positive linear correlation [Y=0.027x + 38.515, R2=0.944 (P<0.05)] was found between the number of trypanosomes in the blood and body temperature. Significant differences were observed in body weight between inoculated and non-inoculated sheep from day 30 to day 90 after the experiment. From day 30 to day 90 after inoculation trypanosomes were absent or only in low numbers in the blood, and the animals showed anemia and leucopenia. Gross alterations were pale carcasses, enlarged lymph nodes and spleen, and augmented liquid in the peritoneal and pericardiac cavities. Multifocal lymphocytic myocarditis was observed histologically. It is concluded that the isolate is pathogenic to sheep. It is suggested that the semiarid region, where the outbreak occurred, is non-endemic (marginal) for trypanosomosis, and that the disease may occur if the parasite is introduced through vectors.

Abstract in English:

Riet-Correa G., Duarte M.D., Barbosa J.D., Oliveira C.M.C., Cerqueira V.D., Brito M.F. & Riet-Correa F. 2006. [Meningoencephalitis and polioencephalomalacia caused by Bovine herpesvirus-5 in the state of Pará, northern Brazil.] Meningoencefalite e polioencefalomalacia causadas por Herpesvírus bovino-5 no Estado do Pará. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(1):44-46. Central de Diagnóstico Veterinário, Universidade Federal do Pará, Maximino Porpino 1000, Castanhal, PA 68740-080, Brazil. E-mail: griet@ufpa.br Four outbreaks of meningoencephalitis in 1 to 2 years old cattle caused by Bovine herpesvirus-5 are reported in four municipalities in the state of Pará, northern Brazil. In three outbreaks only one animal was affected, in another 3 cattle were affected. Main clinical signs were incoordination, dullness, blindness, recumbence, and opisthotonus. Death occurred after a clinical manifestation period of 3-4 days. Softening and yellowish areas were observed grossly in the cerebral cortex. The histology revealed poliencephalomalacia in the cerebral cortex, thalamus and basal nuclei, and non suppurative encephalitis and meningitis, and eosinophilic intranuclear inclusion bodies in astrocytes. The diagnosis was based on the typical microscopic lesions.

• Meningoencephalitis polioencephalomalacia bovine herpesvirus-5 cattle.

Abstract in Portuguese:

Riet-Correa G., Duarte M.D., Barbosa J.D., Oliveira C.M.C., Cerqueira V.D., Brito M.F. & Riet-Correa F. 2006. [Meningoencephalitis and polioencephalomalacia caused by Bovine herpesvirus-5 in the state of Pará, northern Brazil.] Meningoencefalite e polioencefalomalacia causadas por Herpesvírus bovino-5 no Estado do Pará. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(1):44-46. Central de Diagnóstico Veterinário, Universidade Federal do Pará, Maximino Porpino 1000, Castanhal, PA 68740-080, Brazil. E-mail: griet@ufpa.br Four outbreaks of meningoencephalitis in 1 to 2 years old cattle caused by Bovine herpesvirus-5 are reported in four municipalities in the state of Pará, northern Brazil. In three outbreaks only one animal was affected, in another 3 cattle were affected. Main clinical signs were incoordination, dullness, blindness, recumbence, and opisthotonus. Death occurred after a clinical manifestation period of 3-4 days. Softening and yellowish areas were observed grossly in the cerebral cortex. The histology revealed poliencephalomalacia in the cerebral cortex, thalamus and basal nuclei, and non suppurative encephalitis and meningitis, and eosinophilic intranuclear inclusion bodies in astrocytes. The diagnosis was based on the typical microscopic lesions.

Abstract in English:

Medeiros J.M., Tabosa I.M., Simões S.V.D., Nóbrega Jr J. E., Vasconcelos J.S. & Riet-Correa F. 2005. [Perinatal mortality in kids in the semiarid region of Paraíba, Brazil.] Mortalidade perinatal em cabritos no semi-árido da Paraíba. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 25(4):201-206. Centro de Saúde e Tecnologia Rural, Universidade Federal de Campina Grande, Campus de Patos, 58700-970 Patos, PB, Brazil. E-mail: riet@cstr.ufcg.edu.br The causes of perinatal kid mortality were studied from May 2002 to August 2004 in the semiarid region of Paraíba. In 118 necropsied kids the frequency of different causes of death were neonatal infections (50%), distocia (12.71%), hypothermia/starvation (11.86%), malformations (7.62%), floppy kid (6.77%) and abortions (1.69%). Regarding the time of death, 1.69% of the kids died before parturition, 16.94% during the parturition and 81.34 % after birth. The high occurrence of neonatal infections, dystocias, and hypothermia/starvation is probably to due to factors related with error in the sanitary, reproductive and nutritional management. Arthrogryposis of the forelimbs was the main malformation observed. This defect is endemic in goat flocks in the semi-arid of Brazil. Most deaths occurred after birth (25.42%) and from the 4th to the 28th day of life (38.98%) suggesting that care with the kids during their first 28 days of life is important for the improvement of the survival rate.

• Perinatal mortality kids semiarid region Brazil.

Abstract in Portuguese:

Medeiros J.M., Tabosa I.M., Simões S.V.D., Nóbrega Jr J. E., Vasconcelos J.S. & Riet-Correa F. 2005. [Perinatal mortality in kids in the semiarid region of Paraíba, Brazil.] Mortalidade perinatal em cabritos no semi-árido da Paraíba. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 25(4):201-206. Centro de Saúde e Tecnologia Rural, Universidade Federal de Campina Grande, Campus de Patos, 58700-970 Patos, PB, Brazil. E-mail: riet@cstr.ufcg.edu.br The causes of perinatal kid mortality were studied from May 2002 to August 2004 in the semiarid region of Paraíba. In 118 necropsied kids the frequency of different causes of death were neonatal infections (50%), distocia (12.71%), hypothermia/starvation (11.86%), malformations (7.62%), floppy kid (6.77%) and abortions (1.69%). Regarding the time of death, 1.69% of the kids died before parturition, 16.94% during the parturition and 81.34 % after birth. The high occurrence of neonatal infections, dystocias, and hypothermia/starvation is probably to due to factors related with error in the sanitary, reproductive and nutritional management. Arthrogryposis of the forelimbs was the main malformation observed. This defect is endemic in goat flocks in the semi-arid of Brazil. Most deaths occurred after birth (25.42%) and from the 4th to the 28th day of life (38.98%) suggesting that care with the kids during their first 28 days of life is important for the improvement of the survival rate.

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:

Amorim S.L., Medeiros R.M.T. & Riet-Correa F. 2005. [Experimental poisoning by Manihot glaziovii (Euphorbiaceae) in goats.] Intoxicação experimental por Manihot glaziovii (Euphorbiaceae) em caprinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 25(3):179-187. Centro de Saúde e Tecnologia Rural, UFCG, Campus de Patos, 58700-000 Patos, PB, Brazil. E-mail: rmtmed@cstr.ufcg.edu.br Samples of fresh, dried and partially dried leaves of Manihot glaziovii Muell. Arg. were administered orally to Moxotó goats in single doses up to 12g/kg body weight (bw). The cyanide content of the plant samples was determined by the picrosodic paper test. The plant was collected from January to June 2004. When the goats with clinical signs were in lateral recumbency, they were treated intravenously with 50ml/100kg/bw of a 20% aqueous solution of sodium tiosulfate. Three experiments were performed. In Experiment 1, the plant was given immediately after collection to six goats; two ingested the plant after been ground and four ingested the plant without having been ground. In Experiment 2, the plant was maintained in the shade, in open air or inside plastic bags. The plastic bags were changed daily. The plant kept in plastic bags was given to 18 goats, 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24, 48, 72, 96 and 120 hours after collection. The plant kept in the open air was given to 13 goats, 4, 24, 48, 72 and 96 hours and 9, 10, 23 and 30 days after collection. In Experiment 3, the previously ground plant kept in the open air or inside plastic bags was administered 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24, 48, 72 and 96 hours after collection. Seventeen goats received the plant kept in plastic bags, and 16 goats the plant left in the open air. In Experiments 2 and 3, two or three goats were used for each period after collection, and the plant was given until the loss of its toxicity. Forty goats were used as controls for evaluation of the cardiac and respiratory frequencies. In Experiment 1, the ground and not ground plant had similar toxicity. In Experiment 2, the plant kept in the open air maintained its toxicity during the whole experiment (30 days), and the plant kept inside the plastic bags was toxic until 96 hours after collection. In Experiment 3, the ground plant, left in the open air or kept inside plastic bags, was toxic for 72 hours after collection. In all experiments clinical signs were characteristic of cyanide poisoning. All poisoned goats were treated successfully. In conclusion, Manihot glaziovii, which is used as forage in northeastern Brazil, should be ground and left for at least 96 hours in the open air before feeding to animals. The plant for preparing hay should be previously ground, and the hay should be given to animals also only 96 hours after its preparation.

• Poisonous plants plant poisoning Manihot glaziovii Euphorbiaceae cyanogenic plants hydrocyanic acid goats.

Abstract in Portuguese:

Amorim S.L., Medeiros R.M.T. & Riet-Correa F. 2005. [Experimental poisoning by Manihot glaziovii (Euphorbiaceae) in goats.] Intoxicação experimental por Manihot glaziovii (Euphorbiaceae) em caprinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 25(3):179-187. Centro de Saúde e Tecnologia Rural, UFCG, Campus de Patos, 58700-000 Patos, PB, Brazil. E-mail: rmtmed@cstr.ufcg.edu.br Samples of fresh, dried and partially dried leaves of Manihot glaziovii Muell. Arg. were administered orally to Moxotó goats in single doses up to 12g/kg body weight (bw). The cyanide content of the plant samples was determined by the picrosodic paper test. The plant was collected from January to June 2004. When the goats with clinical signs were in lateral recumbency, they were treated intravenously with 50ml/100kg/bw of a 20% aqueous solution of sodium tiosulfate. Three experiments were performed. In Experiment 1, the plant was given immediately after collection to six goats; two ingested the plant after been ground and four ingested the plant without having been ground. In Experiment 2, the plant was maintained in the shade, in open air or inside plastic bags. The plastic bags were changed daily. The plant kept in plastic bags was given to 18 goats, 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24, 48, 72, 96 and 120 hours after collection. The plant kept in the open air was given to 13 goats, 4, 24, 48, 72 and 96 hours and 9, 10, 23 and 30 days after collection. In Experiment 3, the previously ground plant kept in the open air or inside plastic bags was administered 4, 8, 12, 16, 20, 24, 48, 72 and 96 hours after collection. Seventeen goats received the plant kept in plastic bags, and 16 goats the plant left in the open air. In Experiments 2 and 3, two or three goats were used for each period after collection, and the plant was given until the loss of its toxicity. Forty goats were used as controls for evaluation of the cardiac and respiratory frequencies. In Experiment 1, the ground and not ground plant had similar toxicity. In Experiment 2, the plant kept in the open air maintained its toxicity during the whole experiment (30 days), and the plant kept inside the plastic bags was toxic until 96 hours after collection. In Experiment 3, the ground plant, left in the open air or kept inside plastic bags, was toxic for 72 hours after collection. In all experiments clinical signs were characteristic of cyanide poisoning. All poisoned goats were treated successfully. In conclusion, Manihot glaziovii, which is used as forage in northeastern Brazil, should be ground and left for at least 96 hours in the open air before feeding to animals. The plant for preparing hay should be previously ground, and the hay should be given to animals also only 96 hours after its preparation.