PESQUISA VETERINÁRIA BRASILEIRA

Abstract in English:

Lima E.F., Riet-Correa F., Tabosa I.M., Dantas A.F.M., Medeiros J.M. & Sucupira Júnior G. 2005. [Polioencephalomalacia in goats and sheep in the semiarid region of northeastern Brazil.] Polioencefalomalacia em caprinos e ovinos na região semi-árida do Nordeste do Brasil. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 25(1):9-14. Centro de Saúde e Tecnologia Rural, Universidade Federal de Campina Grande, Campus de Patos, 58700-000 Patos, PB, Brazil. E-mail: riet@cstr.ufcg.edu.br Seven outbreaks of polioencephalomalacia in goats and 3 in sheep are reported from the semiarid region of northeastern Brazil. Animals of different ages were affected in various seasons of the year. In 5 outbreaks the animals were supplemented with concentrate ration and in 5 others they were only grazing on pastures. In one outbreak sheep were supplemented with an energy-protein-mineral mixture containing 1.3% of sulfur flower. Clinical signs were characterized by blindness, depression, head pressing, circling, grinding of the teeth, incoordination, spastic paralysis, ataxia, depression of the palpebral and pupillary reflexes, lateral strabismus, nystagmus, and dilated pupils. Nine affected animals were treated with thiamine and dexamethasone; 7 of them recovered but 2 died. The diagnosis of the disease was based on the recovered animals after treatment and/or on the histologic lesions. The clinical course varied from 2 to 15 days. On three animals post-mortem examination was made. One had herniation of the cerebellum through the Foramen magnum and softening of the cerebral cortex. The cut surface of the cerebral cortex showed cavitation and yellowish discoloration. Another animal had only cerebellar herniation. In a third animal no gross lesions were observed. Histological changes in the 3 animals were laminar necrosis of the cerebral cortex, and in 2 malacia of the thalamus and the rostral colliculi was also observed. In 9 outbreaks the cause of the disease was not determined, but one was probably due to sulfur toxicosis caused by the high sulfur content of the energy-protein-mineral mixture containing 1.3% of sulfur flower (96% sulfur) and 30% chicken litter (0.39% sulfur).

• Polioencephalomalacia cortical necrosis goats sheep sulfur poisoning thiamine deficiency.

Abstract in Portuguese:

Lima E.F., Riet-Correa F., Tabosa I.M., Dantas A.F.M., Medeiros J.M. & Sucupira Júnior G. 2005. [Polioencephalomalacia in goats and sheep in the semiarid region of northeastern Brazil.] Polioencefalomalacia em caprinos e ovinos na região semi-árida do Nordeste do Brasil. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 25(1):9-14. Centro de Saúde e Tecnologia Rural, Universidade Federal de Campina Grande, Campus de Patos, 58700-000 Patos, PB, Brazil. E-mail: riet@cstr.ufcg.edu.br Seven outbreaks of polioencephalomalacia in goats and 3 in sheep are reported from the semiarid region of northeastern Brazil. Animals of different ages were affected in various seasons of the year. In 5 outbreaks the animals were supplemented with concentrate ration and in 5 others they were only grazing on pastures. In one outbreak sheep were supplemented with an energy-protein-mineral mixture containing 1.3% of sulfur flower. Clinical signs were characterized by blindness, depression, head pressing, circling, grinding of the teeth, incoordination, spastic paralysis, ataxia, depression of the palpebral and pupillary reflexes, lateral strabismus, nystagmus, and dilated pupils. Nine affected animals were treated with thiamine and dexamethasone; 7 of them recovered but 2 died. The diagnosis of the disease was based on the recovered animals after treatment and/or on the histologic lesions. The clinical course varied from 2 to 15 days. On three animals post-mortem examination was made. One had herniation of the cerebellum through the Foramen magnum and softening of the cerebral cortex. The cut surface of the cerebral cortex showed cavitation and yellowish discoloration. Another animal had only cerebellar herniation. In a third animal no gross lesions were observed. Histological changes in the 3 animals were laminar necrosis of the cerebral cortex, and in 2 malacia of the thalamus and the rostral colliculi was also observed. In 9 outbreaks the cause of the disease was not determined, but one was probably due to sulfur toxicosis caused by the high sulfur content of the energy-protein-mineral mixture containing 1.3% of sulfur flower (96% sulfur) and 30% chicken litter (0.39% sulfur).

Abstract in English:

D'Ávila da Silva A., Sortica V.A., Braga A.C., Spilki F.R., Franco A.C., Esteves P.A., Rijsewijk F., Rosa J.C.A., Batista H.B.C.R., Oliveira A.P. & Roehe P.M. 2005. [Antigenic and molecular characterization of eight samples of Aujeszky’s disease virus isolated in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, in 2003.] Caracterização antigênica e molecular de oito amostras do virus da doença de Aujeszky isoladas no estado do Rio Grande do Sul em 2003. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 25(1):21-24. Instituto de Pesquisas Veterinárias Desidério Finamor (IPVDF), Fepagro Saúde Animal, Estrada do Conde 6000, Cx. Postal 47, Eldorado do Sul, RS 92990-000, Brazil. E-mail: proehe@ufrgs.br Pseudorabies or Aujeszky’s disease (AD), caused by pseudorabies virus (PRV) is a major concern in swine production. In the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, AD was only detected in 1954, in cattle. In 2003 two outbreaks of encephalitis occurred on the northern region of the state, close to the border with the state of Santa Catarina. Pseudorabies virus (PRV) was isolated from distinct farms within the region and subjected to antigenic and genomic analyses. These isolates were compared with prototype strains NIA-3 and NP. Antigenic characterization with a panel of monoclonal antibodies (Mabs) directed to viral glycoproteins (gB, gC, gD and gE,) was performed by an imunoperoxidase monolayer assay (IPMA) on infected cell monolayers. Genomic characterization was carried out by restriction enzyme analysis (REA) of the whole DNA viral genome with Bam HI. The antigenic profile of the eight isolates from Rio Grande do Sul as well as strains NIA-3 and NP were similar. REA analysis revealed that all isolates from Rio Grande do Sul displayed a genomic type II arrangement, a genotype often found in other outbreaks of AD previously reported in other Brazilian states. The results obtained suggest that the eight isolates examined here were similar.

• Aujeszky's disease epidemiology.

Abstract in Portuguese:

D'Ávila da Silva A., Sortica V.A., Braga A.C., Spilki F.R., Franco A.C., Esteves P.A., Rijsewijk F., Rosa J.C.A., Batista H.B.C.R., Oliveira A.P. & Roehe P.M. 2005. [Antigenic and molecular characterization of eight samples of Aujeszky’s disease virus isolated in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, in 2003.] Caracterização antigênica e molecular de oito amostras do virus da doença de Aujeszky isoladas no estado do Rio Grande do Sul em 2003. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 25(1):21-24. Instituto de Pesquisas Veterinárias Desidério Finamor (IPVDF), Fepagro Saúde Animal, Estrada do Conde 6000, Cx. Postal 47, Eldorado do Sul, RS 92990-000, Brazil. E-mail: proehe@ufrgs.br Pseudorabies or Aujeszky’s disease (AD), caused by pseudorabies virus (PRV) is a major concern in swine production. In the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, AD was only detected in 1954, in cattle. In 2003 two outbreaks of encephalitis occurred on the northern region of the state, close to the border with the state of Santa Catarina. Pseudorabies virus (PRV) was isolated from distinct farms within the region and subjected to antigenic and genomic analyses. These isolates were compared with prototype strains NIA-3 and NP. Antigenic characterization with a panel of monoclonal antibodies (Mabs) directed to viral glycoproteins (gB, gC, gD and gE,) was performed by an imunoperoxidase monolayer assay (IPMA) on infected cell monolayers. Genomic characterization was carried out by restriction enzyme analysis (REA) of the whole DNA viral genome with Bam HI. The antigenic profile of the eight isolates from Rio Grande do Sul as well as strains NIA-3 and NP were similar. REA analysis revealed that all isolates from Rio Grande do Sul displayed a genomic type II arrangement, a genotype often found in other outbreaks of AD previously reported in other Brazilian states. The results obtained suggest that the eight isolates examined here were similar.

Abstract in English:

Lima E.S.C., Pinto P.S.A., Santos J.L., Vanetti M.C.D., Bevilacqua P.D., Almeida L.P., Pinto M.S. & Dias F.S. 2004. [Isolation of Salmonella sp and Staphylococcus aureus at swine slaughtering as subsidy for HACCP, the Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point system.] Isolamento de Salmonella sp e Staphylococcus aureus no processo do abate suíno como subsídio ao sistema de Análise de Perigos e Pontos Críticos de Controle - APPCC. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 24(4):185-190. Depto Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Viçosa, 36571-000 Viçosa, Minas Gerais, Brazil. E-mail: pintopsa@ufv.br This study was done to evaluate the superficial contamination of swine carcasses by Salmonella sp and Staphylococcus aureus, the identification of microbiological hazards in different segments of the processing line, and critical control points (CCPs), through the quantification of risks. A total of 120 surface swabbing carcasses were collected in a slaughterhouse: after the scalding/dehairing (point A), before evisceration (B), after evisceration and splitting (C), and after 24 hours of refrigeration (D). Salmonella sp and S. aureus were isolated from 14 (11.7%) carcasses. No statistical difference between the points studied was observed. The number of S. aureus isolated was between 1.2 and 1.5 log UFC/cm2. It was concluded that the risks observed were the same for both microorganisms.

• Salmonella sp Staphylococcus aureus swine carcass slaughterhouse HACCP.

Abstract in Portuguese:

Lima E.S.C., Pinto P.S.A., Santos J.L., Vanetti M.C.D., Bevilacqua P.D., Almeida L.P., Pinto M.S. & Dias F.S. 2004. [Isolation of Salmonella sp and Staphylococcus aureus at swine slaughtering as subsidy for HACCP, the Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point system.] Isolamento de Salmonella sp e Staphylococcus aureus no processo do abate suíno como subsídio ao sistema de Análise de Perigos e Pontos Críticos de Controle - APPCC. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 24(4):185-190. Depto Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Viçosa, 36571-000 Viçosa, Minas Gerais, Brazil. E-mail: pintopsa@ufv.br This study was done to evaluate the superficial contamination of swine carcasses by Salmonella sp and Staphylococcus aureus, the identification of microbiological hazards in different segments of the processing line, and critical control points (CCPs), through the quantification of risks. A total of 120 surface swabbing carcasses were collected in a slaughterhouse: after the scalding/dehairing (point A), before evisceration (B), after evisceration and splitting (C), and after 24 hours of refrigeration (D). Salmonella sp and S. aureus were isolated from 14 (11.7%) carcasses. No statistical difference between the points studied was observed. The number of S. aureus isolated was between 1.2 and 1.5 log UFC/cm2. It was concluded that the risks observed were the same for both microorganisms.

Abstract in English:

Alves A.L., Madureira R.C., Silva R.A., Corrêa F.N. & Botteon R.C.C.M. 2004. [Frequency of antibodies against Borrelia burgdorferi in dogs from the metropolitan region of Rio de Janeiro.] Freqüência de anticorpos contra Borrelia burgdorferi em cães na região metropolitana do Rio de Janeiro. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 24 (4):203-206. Depto Medicina e Cirurgia Veterinária, Inst. Veterinária, UFRRJ, Seropédica, RJ 23851-970, Brazil. E-mail: fabiolanc@ig.com.br Lyme disease is a worldwide zoonosis caused by Borrelia burgdorferi (Spirochaetae) and transmitted through ticks (Ixodidae). Many species of domestic and wild animals are affected. The dog is an important reservoir in the domiciliary environment. The disease affects the joints and causes alterations in other organs. Blood serum samples from 143 dogs, living in the counties of Seropédica, Itaguaí and Rio de Janeiro, were analyzed with the indirect ELISA test, to search for antibodies against Borrelia burgdorferi latu sensu. Average positive results were 48.25%, 41.9% in Seropédica, 4.9% in Itaguaí and 1.4% in Rio de Janeiro. The titres varied from 1:400 to 1:6400. The prevalence was lower (p< 0.05) in dogs up to one year of age than in older dogs, with significant difference. Between males and females was no statistical difference with positives titres. The result of this survey should draw attention to the occurrence of Borrelia sp in the area studied, considering the importance of Lyme disease as an emerging zoonosis.

• Borrelia burgdorferi Spirochaetae dogs enzyme immunoassay serology.

Abstract in Portuguese:

Alves A.L., Madureira R.C., Silva R.A., Corrêa F.N. & Botteon R.C.C.M. 2004. [Frequency of antibodies against Borrelia burgdorferi in dogs from the metropolitan region of Rio de Janeiro.] Freqüência de anticorpos contra Borrelia burgdorferi em cães na região metropolitana do Rio de Janeiro. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 24 (4):203-206. Depto Medicina e Cirurgia Veterinária, Inst. Veterinária, UFRRJ, Seropédica, RJ 23851-970, Brazil. E-mail: fabiolanc@ig.com.br Lyme disease is a worldwide zoonosis caused by Borrelia burgdorferi (Spirochaetae) and transmitted through ticks (Ixodidae). Many species of domestic and wild animals are affected. The dog is an important reservoir in the domiciliary environment. The disease affects the joints and causes alterations in other organs. Blood serum samples from 143 dogs, living in the counties of Seropédica, Itaguaí and Rio de Janeiro, were analyzed with the indirect ELISA test, to search for antibodies against Borrelia burgdorferi latu sensu. Average positive results were 48.25%, 41.9% in Seropédica, 4.9% in Itaguaí and 1.4% in Rio de Janeiro. The titres varied from 1:400 to 1:6400. The prevalence was lower (p< 0.05) in dogs up to one year of age than in older dogs, with significant difference. Between males and females was no statistical difference with positives titres. The result of this survey should draw attention to the occurrence of Borrelia sp in the area studied, considering the importance of Lyme disease as an emerging zoonosis.

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:

Oliveira A., Fonseca A.H., Ishikawa M.M. & Yoshinari N.H. 2004. [Cinetic growth of Borrelia burgdorferi (Spirochaetaceae) in different culture media.] Cinética do crescimento de Borrelia burgdorferi em diferentes meios de cultivo. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 24(2):61-64. Depto Epidemiologia e Saúde Pública, Instituto de Veterinária, Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro, Seropédica, RJ 23890-000, Brazil. E-mail: adivaldo@ufrrj.br The cinetic of growth of Borrelia burgdorferi was studied during a 3-month period, using the following 8 culture media: (1) rabbit serum BSK, (2) swine serum BSK, (3) swine serum BSK+5 fluorouracil, (4) PMR, (5) CTB, (6) Dubos, (7) Brucella broth and (8) BHI. All media were prepared aseptically and were maintained in culture tubes of 10 ml capacity. For each medium, the inoculum was standardized to contain initially 102 spirochetes for each 0.1 ml of culture. The growth was monitorized by counting the total number of spirochetes in 0.1ml of medium in a dark field microscope, using a 10x30 mm cover slip. For the first 12 days, counting was done each 24 hours, and afterwards once a week during 14 weeks. There occurred growth of B. burgdorferi in all tested media, with the best performance of three of them: BSK with rabbit serum, BSK swine serum + 5 fluorouracil, and CTB medium. Growth of B. burgdorferi was seen from the 4th week on, reaching its maximum within 8-12 weeks, depleting the culture medium after this time. Cystic forms of B. burgdorferi were observed with all tested media.

• Culture medium Borrelia burgdorferi borreliosis Spirochaetaceae bacteria cultivation cinetic growth cystic forms.

Abstract in Portuguese:

Oliveira A., Fonseca A.H., Ishikawa M.M. & Yoshinari N.H. 2004. [Cinetic growth of Borrelia burgdorferi (Spirochaetaceae) in different culture media.] Cinética do crescimento de Borrelia burgdorferi em diferentes meios de cultivo. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 24(2):61-64. Depto Epidemiologia e Saúde Pública, Instituto de Veterinária, Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro, Seropédica, RJ 23890-000, Brazil. E-mail: adivaldo@ufrrj.br The cinetic of growth of Borrelia burgdorferi was studied during a 3-month period, using the following 8 culture media: (1) rabbit serum BSK, (2) swine serum BSK, (3) swine serum BSK+5 fluorouracil, (4) PMR, (5) CTB, (6) Dubos, (7) Brucella broth and (8) BHI. All media were prepared aseptically and were maintained in culture tubes of 10 ml capacity. For each medium, the inoculum was standardized to contain initially 102 spirochetes for each 0.1 ml of culture. The growth was monitorized by counting the total number of spirochetes in 0.1ml of medium in a dark field microscope, using a 10x30 mm cover slip. For the first 12 days, counting was done each 24 hours, and afterwards once a week during 14 weeks. There occurred growth of B. burgdorferi in all tested media, with the best performance of three of them: BSK with rabbit serum, BSK swine serum + 5 fluorouracil, and CTB medium. Growth of B. burgdorferi was seen from the 4th week on, reaching its maximum within 8-12 weeks, depleting the culture medium after this time. Cystic forms of B. burgdorferi were observed with all tested media.

Abstract in English:

Rossetti C.A., Vansco B.N., Pini, N & Carfagnini J.C. 2004. Comparison of three diagnostic techniques for the detection of leptospires in the kidneys of wild house mice (Mus musculus). Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 24(1):6-10. Instituto de Patobiología, Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Agropecuarias (CNIA) del Instituto Nacional de Tecnología Agropecuaria (INTA), CC 25 (1712) Castelar, Buenos Aires, Argentina. E-mail: crossetti@cicv.inta.gov.ar Forty-one wild house mice (Mus musculus) were trapped in an urban area, near railways, in Santa Fe city, Argentina. Both kidneys from each mouse were removed for bacteriological and histological examination. One kidney was inoculated into Fletcher semi-solid medium and isolates were serologically typed. The other kidney was microscopically examined after hematoxylin-eosin, silver impregnation and immunohistochemical stains. Leptospires, all of them belonging to the Ballum serogroup, were isolated from 16 (39%) out of 41 samples. The presence of the agent was recorded in 18 (44%) and in 19 (46%) out of 41 silver impregnated and immunohistochemically stained samples respectively. Additionally, leptospires were detected in high number on the apical surface of epithelial cells and in the lumen of medullary tubules and they were less frequently seen on the apical surface of epithelial cells or in the lumen of the cortical tubules, which represents an unusual finding in carrier animals. Microscopic lesions consisting of focal mononuclear interstitial nephritis, glomerular shrinkage and desquamation of tubular epithelial cells were observed in 13 of 19 infected and in 10 of 22 non-infected mice; differences in presence of lesions between infected and non-infected animals were not statistically significant (P=0,14). The three techniques, culture, silver impregnation and immunohistochemistry, had a high agreement (k³0.85) and no significant differences between them were detected (P>0.05). In addition, an unusual location of leptospires in kidneys of carrier animals was reported, but a relationship between lesions and presence of leptospires could not be established.

• Leptospires diagnostic techniques Mus musculus lesions.

Abstract in Portuguese:

Rossetti C.A., Vansco B.N., Pini, N & Carfagnini J.C. 2004. Comparison of three diagnostic techniques for the detection of leptospires in the kidneys of wild house mice (Mus musculus). Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 24(1):6-10. Instituto de Patobiología, Centro Nacional de Investigaciones Agropecuarias (CNIA) del Instituto Nacional de Tecnología Agropecuaria (INTA), CC 25 (1712) Castelar, Buenos Aires, Argentina. E-mail: crossetti@cicv.inta.gov.ar Forty-one wild house mice (Mus musculus) were trapped in an urban area, near railways, in Santa Fe city, Argentina. Both kidneys from each mouse were removed for bacteriological and histological examination. One kidney was inoculated into Fletcher semi-solid medium and isolates were serologically typed. The other kidney was microscopically examined after hematoxylin-eosin, silver impregnation and immunohistochemical stains. Leptospires, all of them belonging to the Ballum serogroup, were isolated from 16 (39%) out of 41 samples. The presence of the agent was recorded in 18 (44%) and in 19 (46%) out of 41 silver impregnated and immunohistochemically stained samples respectively. Additionally, leptospires were detected in high number on the apical surface of epithelial cells and in the lumen of medullary tubules and they were less frequently seen on the apical surface of epithelial cells or in the lumen of the cortical tubules, which represents an unusual finding in carrier animals. Microscopic lesions consisting of focal mononuclear interstitial nephritis, glomerular shrinkage and desquamation of tubular epithelial cells were observed in 13 of 19 infected and in 10 of 22 non-infected mice; differences in presence of lesions between infected and non-infected animals were not statistically significant (P=0,14). The three techniques, culture, silver impregnation and immunohistochemistry, had a high agreement (k³0.85) and no significant differences between them were detected (P>0.05). In addition, an unusual location of leptospires in kidneys of carrier animals was reported, but a relationship between lesions and presence of leptospires could not be established.

Abstract in English:

Döbereiner J., Dutra I.S. & Rosa I.V. 2004. [The etiology of “cara inchada”, a bovine epizootic periodontitis in Brazil.] A etiologia da “cara inchada”, uma periodontite epizoótica dos bovinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasleira 24(1):50-56. Projeto Sanidade Animal Embrapa/UFRRJ, Embrapa-CNPAB/PSA, Seropédica, RJ 23851-970, Brazil. E-mail: jurgen@ufrrj.br A condensed version in Portuguese of an extensive review on “cara inchada”-periodontitis of cattle, published in English, is presented with some additional information. This disease was responsible for severe losses of young cattle especially in the 1970’s and 1980’s in central Brazil. Due to the progressive periodontitis and the loss of teeth, the animals cannot eat properly, loose condition and may die. This was believed to be due to mineral deficiency or imbalance. However, field and laboratory observations and experiments over 30 years showed that it is a multifactorial infectious disease which can be defined as Bovine Epizootic Periodontitis. It was concluded that there are three main factors required for its development: (1) Cattle affected are at the age when premolar and molar teeth erupt; (2) bacteria of the Bacteroides group are present in the subgingival spaces; (3) the ingestion with the forage of subinibitory concentrations of antibiotics, mainly streptomycin, produced by the large increase in the number of actinomycetes found in soils from pastures sown after recently cleared forest; this leads to an increased adherence of Bacteroides spp to the gingival epithelium and to the progressive destruction of the periodontal tissues. Nowadays, the disease has practically disappeared, because the disturbed soil microflora has reached the new equilibrium, and the occupation of virgin land for cattle raising has almost ceased. New outbreaks may occur with former problem-pastures when these are freshly cultivated as this again leads to a disequilibrium of the soil microflora and to increased antibiotic production. Other antibiotics such as spiramycin and virginiamycin, administered orally or added to a mineral supplement, can control the disease.

• “Cara inchada” periodontitis cattle.

Abstract in Portuguese:

Döbereiner J., Dutra I.S. & Rosa I.V. 2004. [The etiology of “cara inchada”, a bovine epizootic periodontitis in Brazil.] A etiologia da “cara inchada”, uma periodontite epizoótica dos bovinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasleira 24(1):50-56. Projeto Sanidade Animal Embrapa/UFRRJ, Embrapa-CNPAB/PSA, Seropédica, RJ 23851-970, Brazil. E-mail: jurgen@ufrrj.br A condensed version in Portuguese of an extensive review on “cara inchada”-periodontitis of cattle, published in English, is presented with some additional information. This disease was responsible for severe losses of young cattle especially in the 1970’s and 1980’s in central Brazil. Due to the progressive periodontitis and the loss of teeth, the animals cannot eat properly, loose condition and may die. This was believed to be due to mineral deficiency or imbalance. However, field and laboratory observations and experiments over 30 years showed that it is a multifactorial infectious disease which can be defined as Bovine Epizootic Periodontitis. It was concluded that there are three main factors required for its development: (1) Cattle affected are at the age when premolar and molar teeth erupt; (2) bacteria of the Bacteroides group are present in the subgingival spaces; (3) the ingestion with the forage of subinibitory concentrations of antibiotics, mainly streptomycin, produced by the large increase in the number of actinomycetes found in soils from pastures sown after recently cleared forest; this leads to an increased adherence of Bacteroides spp to the gingival epithelium and to the progressive destruction of the periodontal tissues. Nowadays, the disease has practically disappeared, because the disturbed soil microflora has reached the new equilibrium, and the occupation of virgin land for cattle raising has almost ceased. New outbreaks may occur with former problem-pastures when these are freshly cultivated as this again leads to a disequilibrium of the soil microflora and to increased antibiotic production. Other antibiotics such as spiramycin and virginiamycin, administered orally or added to a mineral supplement, can control the disease.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Azevedo S.S., Vasconcellos S.A., Alves C.J., Keid L.B., Grasso L.M.P.S., Mascolli R. & Pinheiro S.R. 2003. [Serological survey and risk factors for brucellosis due to Brucella canis in dogs of the Santana de Parnaíba municipality, State of São Paulo.] Inquérito sorológico e fatores de risco para a brucelose por Brucella canis em cães do Município de Santana de Parnaíba, Estado de São Paulo. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 23(4):156-160. Depto Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, FMVZ/USP, 05508-090 São Paulo·SP, Brazil. E-mail: sevedo@fmvz.usp.br The prevalence of brucellosis due to Bruce/la canis was investigated in dogs of the Santana de Parnaíba. county, State of São Paulo, southeastem Brazil, and the risk factors for infection were analyzed. For this purpose, 41 O blood samples were collected from dogs duririg the rabies vaccination campaign, in August 1999. The agar gel immunodiffusion test (AGIO), using lipopolysaccharides and protein antigens from Brucella ovis; strain Reo 198, was applied first as a screening test on normal sera, and secondly, for confirmation. fl1e sarne AGIO test was applied to sera treated previously with 2-mercapthathanol (ME-AGIO). The complement fixation test (CFT), using B. ovis antigen, strain 63/290, was applied also as a confirmatory test. For the prevalence analysis, animais presenting positive results in both ME-AGIO and CFTwere considered positive. The prevalence of brucellosis due to B. canis was 2.2% (95% C.I. = 1.01-4.13%). Dogs that were allowed bytheir owners to stay free outside their home had a higher risk for contracting B. canis infection, with an odds ratio value of 8.73 (95% C.I.=1.48-51.55) and p=0.04.

• Animal brucellosis Brucella canis diagnosis dogs Brucelose animal diagnóstico cães.

Abstract in Portuguese:

RESUMO.- Azevedo S.S., Vasconcellos S.A., Alves C.J., Keid L.B., Grasso L.M.P.S., Mascolli R. & Pinheiro S.R. 2003. [Serological survey and risk factors for brucellosis due to Brucella canis in dogs of the Santana de Parnaíba municipality, State of São Paulo.] Inquérito sorológico e fatores de risco para a brucelose por Brucella canis em cães do Município de Santana de Parnaíba, Estado de São Paulo. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 23(4):156-160. Depto Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, FMVZ/USP, 05508-090 São Paulo·SP, Brazil. E-mail: sevedo@fmvz.usp.br Foi investigada a prevalência da brucelose causada por Brucella canis em cães do município de Santana de Parnaíba, SP, Brasil, e realizado um estudo de possíveis fatores de risco associados à soropositividade para B. canis. Foram examinadas 410 amostras de soro sanguíneo de cães colhidas durante a campanha de vacinação anti-rábica animal, realizada em agosto de 1999. A imunodifusão em gel de ágar (IOGA), utilizando antígeno de lipopolissacarídeos e proteínas de Brucella ovis, amostra Reo 198, foi empregada em soros normais como teste de triagem, e, para a confirmação, a mesma técnica foi aplicada em soros tratados pelo 2-mercaptoetanol (IOGA-ME). A reação de fixação de complemento (CFT), utilizando antígeno de B. ovis, amostra 63/290, também foi utilizada como prova confirmatória. A determinação da prevalência considerou como positivos os animais que reagiram positivamente nos dois testes confirmatórios. (IOGA-ME e CFT). A prevalência da B. canis foi de 2,2% (1.C. 95% = 1,01-4, 13%). A análise estatística mostrou que os cães com acesso irrestrito à rua o dia todo (manejo do tipo solto) estiveram mais expostos ao risco da infecção por B. canis, com um valor de odds ratio de 8,73 (I.C. 95% = 1,48-51,55) e p=0,04.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Fighera R.A., Rozza D.B., Piazer J.V., Copetti M.V., lrigoyen L.F. & Barros C.S.L. 2003. [Interstitial pneumonia in cattle fed moldy sweet potatoes (Ipomoea batatas).] Pneumonia intersticial em bovinos associada à ingestão de batata-doce (lpomoea batatas) mofada. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 23(4):161-166. Depto Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105- 900 Santa Maria, RS, Brasil. E-mail: claudioslbarros@uol.com.br Cases of respiratory disease were diagnosed in five out of 23 cattle (21. 7%) after they wete fed moldy damaged sweet potatoes (lpomoea batatas) on a small farm in the county of São Vicente do Sul, state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. Of those five cattle, three died spontaneously and another one was euthanatized for necropsy while showing advanced respiratory clinicai signs. The disease manifested itself approximately 24 hours after the ingestion of the sweet potatoes and lasted from 1 to 4 days. Clinicai signs included dyspnea (labored breathing and abdominal respiration), tachypnea, extended neck with Iow carriage of the head and rhythmical flaring of the nostrils. Two cows were necropsied. Necropsy findings included distended pale and rubbery lungs which failed to collapse when the thorax was open, and marked pulmonar interstitial emphysema and edema. Lymphoid hyperplasia was observed in the hilar nodes and spleen. Histologically, the lesions were those of interstitial pneumonia. Alveolar septa were thickened by fibroblasts and inflammatory cells, and there was hypertrophy and hyperplasia of type li pneumocytes; the interlobular septa were distended by edema and emphysema. The culture of the moldy sweet potatoes yielded Fusarium solani and Fusarium oxysporum.

• Toxic diseases mycotoxicoses respiratory diseases interstitial pneumonia diseases of cattle sweet potatoes lpomoea batatas Intoxicações micotoxicoses doenças respiratórias pneumonia intersticial doenças de bovinos batata-doce.

Abstract in Portuguese:

RESUMO.- Fighera R.A., Rozza D.B., Piazer J.V., Copetti M.V., lrigoyen L.F. & Barros C.S.L. 2003. [Interstitial pneumonia in cattle fed moldy sweet potatoes (Ipomoea batatas).] Pneumonia intersticial em bovinos associada à ingestão de batata-doce (lpomoea batatas) mofada. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 23(4):161-166. Depto Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105- 900 Santa Maria, RS, Brasil. E-mail: claudioslbarros@uol.com.br Uma doença respiratória foi diagnosticada em cinco dentre 23 bovinos (21, 7%) após terem sido alimentados com batata-doce (lpomoea batatas) mofada em uma pequena propriedade rural em São Vicente do Sul, Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil. Três dos cinco bovinos afetados morreram espontaneamente, e o quarto foi sacrificado para necropsia quando mostrava sinais clínicos respiratórios avançados. A manifestação clínica iniciara cerca de 24 horas após a ingestão das batatasdoces e a evolução clínica foi de 1 a 4 dias. Os sinais clínicos incluíam dispnéia (respiração laboriosa e abdominal), taquipnéia, pescoço estendido com cabeça baixa e dilatação ritmada das narinas. Dois bovinos foram necropsiados. Os achados de necropsia incluíam pulmões distendidos, pálidos e de consistência borrachenta, que não colapsavam quando o tórax era aberto; enfisema e edema acentuados eram evidentes no pulmão. Os linfonodos e o baço apresentavam alterações características de hiperplasia linfóide. Histologicamente, as lesões eram típicas de pneumonia intersticial. Os septos alveolares estavam espessados por fibroblastos e células inflamatórias, havia hipertrofia e hiperplasia de pneumócitos tipo II; os septos interlobulares estavam distendidos por edema e enfisema. A cultura de amostras das batatas-doces mofadas produziu Fusarium solani e F. oxysporum.