PESQUISA VETERINÁRIA BRASILEIRA

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Ramírez-Duarte W.F., Rondón-Barragán I.S. & Eslava-Mocha P.R. 2008. Acute toxicity and histopathological alterations of Roundup® herbicide on “cachama blanca” (Piaractus brachypomus). Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(11):547-554. Insti-tuto de Acuicultura, Universidad de los Llanos, Apartado Aéreo 110, Km 4 vía Puerto López, vereda Barcelona, Villavicencio, Meta, Colombia. E-mail: wramirezduarte@yahoo.com.mx Acute toxicity of the glyphosate -N (phosphonomethyl) glycine- herbicide, Roundup®, in juveniles of cachama blanca, (Piaractus brachypomus), was evaluated and the histo-pathological lesions were assessed. The 96 h lethal concentration 50 was 97.47mg.L-1 (P<0.05). In the gill, necrotic and proliferative lesions were detected. In the liver, congestion, degenerative foci, hyaline droplets and lipidic vacuolization of the hepatocytes were observed. In the stomach mild hyperplasia of mucous cells was detected, which was also observed in the skin. In this latter tissue, a large increase in the thickness of the epidermis with necrotic lesions, infiltration of leukocytes and melanin pigment were observed. In the brain, degenerative foci of neuronal bodies in the telencephalon associated with gliosis and infiltration of eosinophilic granule cells/mast cells were shown. In conclusion, gills, liver, skin and brain are susceptible to Roundup®. Moreover, effects on the central nervous system could affect olfaction as well as individual and group behavior, the reproductive performance of the fish and hence have repercussions at the population level.

• Roundup® glyphosate acute toxicity histopathology Piaractus brachypomus

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Ramírez-Duarte W.F., Rondón-Barragán I.S. & Eslava-Mocha P.R. 2008. Acute toxicity and histopathological alterations of Roundup® herbicide on “cachama blanca” (Piaractus brachypomus). Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(11):547-554. Insti-tuto de Acuicultura, Universidad de los Llanos, Apartado Aéreo 110, Km 4 vía Puerto López, vereda Barcelona, Villavicencio, Meta, Colombia. E-mail: wramirezduarte@yahoo.com.mx Acute toxicity of the glyphosate -N (phosphonomethyl) glycine- herbicide, Roundup®, in juveniles of cachama blanca, (Piaractus brachypomus), was evaluated and the histo-pathological lesions were assessed. The 96 h lethal concentration 50 was 97.47mg.L-1 (P<0.05). In the gill, necrotic and proliferative lesions were detected. In the liver, congestion, degenerative foci, hyaline droplets and lipidic vacuolization of the hepatocytes were observed. In the stomach mild hyperplasia of mucous cells was detected, which was also observed in the skin. In this latter tissue, a large increase in the thickness of the epidermis with necrotic lesions, infiltration of leukocytes and melanin pigment were observed. In the brain, degenerative foci of neuronal bodies in the telencephalon associated with gliosis and infiltration of eosinophilic granule cells/mast cells were shown. In conclusion, gills, liver, skin and brain are susceptible to Roundup®. Moreover, effects on the central nervous system could affect olfaction as well as individual and group behavior, the reproductive performance of the fish and hence have repercussions at the population level.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Rissi D.R., Pierezan F., Kommers G.D. & Barros C.S.L. 2008. [Occurrence of rabies in sheep in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.] Ocorrência de raiva em ovinos no Rio Grande do Sul. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(10):495-500. Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900 Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: claudioslbarros@uol.com.br Cases of rabies in sheep occurring in November 2003, in central Rio Grande do Sul state, Brazil, are described. A 3-month-old male, and a 2.5-month-old female sheep were affected. Clinical signs were characterized by abnormal gait, trembling, lateral recumbency, convulsion, opisthotonus, and fever. Histological findings included a non-suppurative myelomeningoencephalitis associated with intracytoplasmic eosinophilic inclusion (Negri) bodies in neurons. Lesions were predominantly observed in gray matter of the spinal cord, brainstem and cerebellum. There was non-suppurative Gasserian ganglionitis in one sheep in which this structure was examined. Immunohistochemistry using rabies virus ribonucleoprotein polyclonal antibody yelded positive result in brain tissue from both sheep. The cases herein reported occurred concomitantly to an outbreak of bat transmitted rabies in cattle in the same region and were considered, on epidemiological basis, to be transmitted by bats, as occurs in endemic bovine rabies in Rio Grande do Sul.

• Lyssavirus Rhabdoviridae rabies diseases of sheep immunohistochemistry neuropathology

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Rissi D.R., Pierezan F., Kommers G.D. & Barros C.S.L. 2008. [Occurrence of rabies in sheep in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.] Ocorrência de raiva em ovinos no Rio Grande do Sul. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(10):495-500. Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900 Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: claudioslbarros@uol.com.br Cases of rabies in sheep occurring in November 2003, in central Rio Grande do Sul state, Brazil, are described. A 3-month-old male, and a 2.5-month-old female sheep were affected. Clinical signs were characterized by abnormal gait, trembling, lateral recumbency, convulsion, opisthotonus, and fever. Histological findings included a non-suppurative myelomeningoencephalitis associated with intracytoplasmic eosinophilic inclusion (Negri) bodies in neurons. Lesions were predominantly observed in gray matter of the spinal cord, brainstem and cerebellum. There was non-suppurative Gasserian ganglionitis in one sheep in which this structure was examined. Immunohistochemistry using rabies virus ribonucleoprotein polyclonal antibody yelded positive result in brain tissue from both sheep. The cases herein reported occurred concomitantly to an outbreak of bat transmitted rabies in cattle in the same region and were considered, on epidemiological basis, to be transmitted by bats, as occurs in endemic bovine rabies in Rio Grande do Sul.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Anjos B.L., Irigoyen L.F., Fighera R.A., Gomes A.D., Kommers G.D & Barros C.S.L. 2008. [Acute poisoning by bracken fern (Pteridium aquilinum) in cattle in central Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.] Intoxicação aguda por samambaia (Pteridium aquilinum) em bovinos na Região Central do Rio Grande do Sul. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(10):501-507. Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900, Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: claudioslbarros@uol.com.br Cases of acute poisoning by bracken fern (Pteridium aquilinum) in cattle from 10 small farms of seven municipalities of the Central Region of Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazil, were reviewed. The study encompassed 6,256 necropsies of cattle considering a 43-year period and included 15 necropsies of cattle dying from acute bracken poisoning. Morbidity and mortality were 17.9% and lethality was virtually 100%. In 40% of the farms the disease occurred in small outbreaks affecting several cattle per farm and in 60% only one bovine was affected in each farm. Main clinical signs include fever (40-42°C), apathy, drooling, and hemorrhages; the latter were mainly from the gums, nostrils, and gastrointestinal tract. Multiple petechiae were observed in several mucosae and in the skin. Occasionally hematuria and blood in the milk were reported. The disease was invariably fatal after a course of approximately two days. Hematological changes included severe neutropenia, non-regenerative normocytic normochromic anemia and thrombocytopenia. Necropsy findings include hemorrhages o varying degrees in several organs and infarcts in the liver. Both hemorrhages and hepatic infarcts were confirmed histologically; clusters of bacterial rods and thrombosed vessels were associated with the infarcts. Marked bone marrow aplasia was a consistent finding in the four cases in which the marrow was evaluated.

• Diseases of cattle poisonous plants Pteridium aquilinum bracken fern hemorrhagic disorders pathology

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Anjos B.L., Irigoyen L.F., Fighera R.A., Gomes A.D., Kommers G.D & Barros C.S.L. 2008. [Acute poisoning by bracken fern (Pteridium aquilinum) in cattle in central Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.] Intoxicação aguda por samambaia (Pteridium aquilinum) em bovinos na Região Central do Rio Grande do Sul. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(10):501-507. Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900, Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: claudioslbarros@uol.com.br Cases of acute poisoning by bracken fern (Pteridium aquilinum) in cattle from 10 small farms of seven municipalities of the Central Region of Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazil, were reviewed. The study encompassed 6,256 necropsies of cattle considering a 43-year period and included 15 necropsies of cattle dying from acute bracken poisoning. Morbidity and mortality were 17.9% and lethality was virtually 100%. In 40% of the farms the disease occurred in small outbreaks affecting several cattle per farm and in 60% only one bovine was affected in each farm. Main clinical signs include fever (40-42°C), apathy, drooling, and hemorrhages; the latter were mainly from the gums, nostrils, and gastrointestinal tract. Multiple petechiae were observed in several mucosae and in the skin. Occasionally hematuria and blood in the milk were reported. The disease was invariably fatal after a course of approximately two days. Hematological changes included severe neutropenia, non-regenerative normocytic normochromic anemia and thrombocytopenia. Necropsy findings include hemorrhages o varying degrees in several organs and infarcts in the liver. Both hemorrhages and hepatic infarcts were confirmed histologically; clusters of bacterial rods and thrombosed vessels were associated with the infarcts. Marked bone marrow aplasia was a consistent finding in the four cases in which the marrow was evaluated.

Abstract in English:

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

• Poisonous plants plant poisoning Jatropha gossypifolia Euphorbiaceae sheep pathology

Abstract in Portuguese:

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

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- 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.- Eigenheer-Moreira J.F., Fernandes F.T., Queiroz F.J.R, Pinho T.G.& Ferreira A.M.R. 2007. [Comparative study of repeat breeds and healthy mares through endometrial histology and plasmatic progesterone concentrations.] Estudo comparativo de éguas repetidoras ou não de cio através da avaliação histológica do endométrio e das concentrações plasmáticas de progesterona. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(12):506-512. Curso de Pós-Graduação em Clínica e Reprodução Animal, Rua Vital Brazil Filho 64, Niterói, RJ 24230-340, Brazil. E-mail: joana.vet@gmail.com.br The study aimed to compare endometrial histology and plasmatic progesterone (P4) concentration of repeat breeds and healthy mares. The hypothesis was that there is a correlation between infertility and endometrial histology and P4 concentration in both groups. A total of 36 Campolina and Mangalarga Marchador mares in reproductive age (3-23 years) were used, 11 of them were healthy mares (Control group, 7 embryo recipient and 4 embryo donors), and 25 repeat breeders (10 embryo recipient and 15 embryo donors), classified as based on their reproductive history. Endometrial and blood samples were collected for respectively histological and plasma progesterone concentration evaluation. The endometrial samples obtained after biopsy were fixed in Bouin’s fluid, processed, included in paraffin, and stained with Hematoxylin-Eosin (HE) for histopathological examination. Plasmatic progesterone concentrations were evaluated by enzyme immunoessay (ELISA). There was no correlation between progesterone concentration and fertility. But there was a positive correlation between age and fertility, as older mares had major tendency of subfertility than younger ones. There was also a correlation between biopsy categories and fertility, as more histological alterations were found, higher were the chances for the mares to be subfertile. However not all mares classified as Category I and II maintained pregnancy until parturition. Other factors could influence pregnancy maintenance. In the same way, not all mares in Category III were infertile. The endometrial biopsy was shown to be an easy and cheap diagnostic technique with minimal discomfort to the animals and, together with other data, to be a very important component in the investigation of mare fertility.

• Mare subfertility endometrial biopsy histopathology progesterone

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Eigenheer-Moreira J.F., Fernandes F.T., Queiroz F.J.R, Pinho T.G.& Ferreira A.M.R. 2007. [Comparative study of repeat breeds and healthy mares through endometrial histology and plasmatic progesterone concentrations.] Estudo comparativo de éguas repetidoras ou não de cio através da avaliação histológica do endométrio e das concentrações plasmáticas de progesterona. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(12):506-512. Curso de Pós-Graduação em Clínica e Reprodução Animal, Rua Vital Brazil Filho 64, Niterói, RJ 24230-340, Brazil. E-mail: joana.vet@gmail.com.br The study aimed to compare endometrial histology and plasmatic progesterone (P4) concentration of repeat breeds and healthy mares. The hypothesis was that there is a correlation between infertility and endometrial histology and P4 concentration in both groups. A total of 36 Campolina and Mangalarga Marchador mares in reproductive age (3-23 years) were used, 11 of them were healthy mares (Control group, 7 embryo recipient and 4 embryo donors), and 25 repeat breeders (10 embryo recipient and 15 embryo donors), classified as based on their reproductive history. Endometrial and blood samples were collected for respectively histological and plasma progesterone concentration evaluation. The endometrial samples obtained after biopsy were fixed in Bouin’s fluid, processed, included in paraffin, and stained with Hematoxylin-Eosin (HE) for histopathological examination. Plasmatic progesterone concentrations were evaluated by enzyme immunoessay (ELISA). There was no correlation between progesterone concentration and fertility. But there was a positive correlation between age and fertility, as older mares had major tendency of subfertility than younger ones. There was also a correlation between biopsy categories and fertility, as more histological alterations were found, higher were the chances for the mares to be subfertile. However not all mares classified as Category I and II maintained pregnancy until parturition. Other factors could influence pregnancy maintenance. In the same way, not all mares in Category III were infertile. The endometrial biopsy was shown to be an easy and cheap diagnostic technique with minimal discomfort to the animals and, together with other data, to be a very important component in the investigation of mare fertility.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Silva M.C., Fighera R.A., Brum J.S., Graça D.L., Kommers G.D., Irigoyen L.F. & Barros C.S.L. 2007. [Hepatic cirrhosis in dogs: 80 cases (1965-2003).] Cirrose hepática em cães: 80 casos (1965-2003). Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(11):471-480. Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, Camobi, 97105-900 Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: claudioslbarros@uol.com.br A retrospective study in 80 cases of canine hepatic cirrhosis was carried out at the Veterinary Pathology Laboratory of the Federal University of Santa Maria, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. Considering those cases in which the sex and age of the dogs were informed in the necropsy reports, males comprised 53.8% of the cases and 46.2% were females; while 50.0% of these dogs were aged, 48.6% were adults and 1.4% were puppies. The main observed clinical signs include ascites (39/80 [48.8%]), icterus (19/80 [23.8%]), anorexia (13/80 [16.2%]), neurological disturbances (12/80 [15.0%]), dyspnea (12/80 [15.0%]) and subcutaneous edema (10/80 [12.5%]). In 63 dogs for which there was a description of gross morphology in the necropsy reports, 76.2% had macronodular and 23.8% had micronodular cirrhosis. In 14 cases in which the histopathology of the liver was reviewed different degrees of fibrosis were observed: mild in 57.2%, moderate in 21.4%, or marked in 21.4%; in these cases there were no correlation with the degree of fibrosis and other associated histological changes such as lipidosis, biliary ducts hyperplasia, inflammation, bilestasis, hemosiderosis and random hepatocellular necrosis. Extra hepatic changes included ascites (39/63 [61.9%]), icterus (19/63 [30.2%]), status spongiosus (15/63 [23.8%]), hydrothorax (12/63 [19.0%]), subcutaneous edema (10/63 [15.9%]), portosystemic shunts (11/63 [17.5%]), gastric our duodenal ulceration (11/63 [17.5%]) and cholemic nephrosis (4/63 [6.3%]).

• Diseases of dogs cirrhosis fibrosis nodular regeneration pathology diseases of the liver

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Silva M.C., Fighera R.A., Brum J.S., Graça D.L., Kommers G.D., Irigoyen L.F. & Barros C.S.L. 2007. [Hepatic cirrhosis in dogs: 80 cases (1965-2003).] Cirrose hepática em cães: 80 casos (1965-2003). Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(11):471-480. Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, Camobi, 97105-900 Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: claudioslbarros@uol.com.br A retrospective study in 80 cases of canine hepatic cirrhosis was carried out at the Veterinary Pathology Laboratory of the Federal University of Santa Maria, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. Considering those cases in which the sex and age of the dogs were informed in the necropsy reports, males comprised 53.8% of the cases and 46.2% were females; while 50.0% of these dogs were aged, 48.6% were adults and 1.4% were puppies. The main observed clinical signs include ascites (39/80 [48.8%]), icterus (19/80 [23.8%]), anorexia (13/80 [16.2%]), neurological disturbances (12/80 [15.0%]), dyspnea (12/80 [15.0%]) and subcutaneous edema (10/80 [12.5%]). In 63 dogs for which there was a description of gross morphology in the necropsy reports, 76.2% had macronodular and 23.8% had micronodular cirrhosis. In 14 cases in which the histopathology of the liver was reviewed different degrees of fibrosis were observed: mild in 57.2%, moderate in 21.4%, or marked in 21.4%; in these cases there were no correlation with the degree of fibrosis and other associated histological changes such as lipidosis, biliary ducts hyperplasia, inflammation, bilestasis, hemosiderosis and random hepatocellular necrosis. Extra hepatic changes included ascites (39/63 [61.9%]), icterus (19/63 [30.2%]), status spongiosus (15/63 [23.8%]), hydrothorax (12/63 [19.0%]), subcutaneous edema (10/63 [15.9%]), portosystemic shunts (11/63 [17.5%]), gastric our duodenal ulceration (11/63 [17.5%]) and cholemic nephrosis (4/63 [6.3%]).

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Inkelmann M.A., Rozza D.B., Fighera R.A., Kommers G.D., Graça D.L., Irigoyen L.F. & Barros C.S.L. 2007. [Infectious canine hepatitis: 62 cases.] Hepatite infecciosa canina: 62 casos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(8):325-332. Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900 Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: claudioslbarros@uol.com.br Necropsy reports from 5,361 dogs necropsied over a 43-year period (1964-2006) were reviewed in search for cases of infectious canine hepatitis (ICH). Sixty two (1.2%) cases of the disease were found. Most of the 62 affected dogs (91.9%,) were 2-year-old or less. Clinical signs were recorded in the necropsy files of 45 ICH affected dogs and included anorexia (55.6%), apathy (35.6%), diarrhea (35.6%) (often with blood [43,8%]), neurological signs (33.3%), vomiting (26.7%), petechiae and echymosis in the mucous membranes and/or skin (24.4%), hypothermia (20.0%), abdominal pain (15.6%), icterus (13.3%), enlargement and congestion of the tonsils (11.1%), fever (11.1%) and ascites (6.7%). The clinical courses lasted from few hours to 15 days. The most frequent necropsy findings included hepatic changes (87.1%), edematous, congested and hemorrhagic lymph nodes (51.6%), bloodstained fluid, clear fluid or whole blood in the abdominal cavity (35.5%), and petechial or paint-brush hemorrhages over the pleural (27.4%) and gastrointestinal (24.2%) serosal surfaces. In 12.9% of the cases there was a granularity to the intestinal serosa. Hemorrhages in the leptomeninges and in the substance of the brain were observed in 9.7% of the cases. Hepatic gross changes included moderately enlarged and more friable livers with marked lobular pattern, congestion and multifocal pale or hemorrhagic foci of necrosis. Films and strands of fibrin covered the hepatic surface in 20.4% of the cases and in 27.8% of the cases the gall bladder was thickened by edema. Zonal or randomly distributed multifocal hepatic necrosis (93.5%) associated with intranuclear inclusion bodies were the most consistent microscopic findings. Intranuclear inclusion bodies were found in the liver in every case and their detection was the criterium for confirmation of the diagnosis. The most significant microscopic extra-hepatic lesions included hemorrhages and intranuclear inclusion bodies in endothelial and reticuloendothelial cells of the renal glomeruli (50.0%) lymph nodes (47.8%), brain (27.8%), tonsils (25.0%) and spleen (10.0%).

• Liver diseases viral diseases infectious diseases pathology diseases of dogs infectious canine hepatitis

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Inkelmann M.A., Rozza D.B., Fighera R.A., Kommers G.D., Graça D.L., Irigoyen L.F. & Barros C.S.L. 2007. [Infectious canine hepatitis: 62 cases.] Hepatite infecciosa canina: 62 casos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(8):325-332. Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900 Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: claudioslbarros@uol.com.br Necropsy reports from 5,361 dogs necropsied over a 43-year period (1964-2006) were reviewed in search for cases of infectious canine hepatitis (ICH). Sixty two (1.2%) cases of the disease were found. Most of the 62 affected dogs (91.9%,) were 2-year-old or less. Clinical signs were recorded in the necropsy files of 45 ICH affected dogs and included anorexia (55.6%), apathy (35.6%), diarrhea (35.6%) (often with blood [43,8%]), neurological signs (33.3%), vomiting (26.7%), petechiae and echymosis in the mucous membranes and/or skin (24.4%), hypothermia (20.0%), abdominal pain (15.6%), icterus (13.3%), enlargement and congestion of the tonsils (11.1%), fever (11.1%) and ascites (6.7%). The clinical courses lasted from few hours to 15 days. The most frequent necropsy findings included hepatic changes (87.1%), edematous, congested and hemorrhagic lymph nodes (51.6%), bloodstained fluid, clear fluid or whole blood in the abdominal cavity (35.5%), and petechial or paint-brush hemorrhages over the pleural (27.4%) and gastrointestinal (24.2%) serosal surfaces. In 12.9% of the cases there was a granularity to the intestinal serosa. Hemorrhages in the leptomeninges and in the substance of the brain were observed in 9.7% of the cases. Hepatic gross changes included moderately enlarged and more friable livers with marked lobular pattern, congestion and multifocal pale or hemorrhagic foci of necrosis. Films and strands of fibrin covered the hepatic surface in 20.4% of the cases and in 27.8% of the cases the gall bladder was thickened by edema. Zonal or randomly distributed multifocal hepatic necrosis (93.5%) associated with intranuclear inclusion bodies were the most consistent microscopic findings. Intranuclear inclusion bodies were found in the liver in every case and their detection was the criterium for confirmation of the diagnosis. The most significant microscopic extra-hepatic lesions included hemorrhages and intranuclear inclusion bodies in endothelial and reticuloendothelial cells of the renal glomeruli (50.0%) lymph nodes (47.8%), brain (27.8%), tonsils (25.0%) and spleen (10.0%).

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Rissi D.R., Rech R.R., Flores E.F., Kommers G.D. & Barros C.S.L. 2007. [Meningoencephalitis by bovine herpesvirus-5.] Meningoencefalite por herpesvírus bovino-5. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(7):251-260. Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900, Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: claudioslbarros@uol.com.br Meningoencephalitis caused by bovine herpesvirus-5 (BoHV-5) is an often fatal, acute or subacute infectious disease that affects mainly young cattle under stressing conditions. The disease has been recognized in several Brazilian regions and in other parts of the world. BoHV-5 is a double stranded DNA virus member of the Herpesviridae family and subfamily Alphaherpesvirinae. The virus is characterized by rapid and lytic replication in cell cultures and by the ability to establish lifelong latent infection in sensory nerve ganglia of the host. BoHV-5 is transmitted mainly by direct and indirect contact and replicates acutely in the oral, nasal, oropharingeal or ocular mucosae. After primary replication, the virus invades nerve endings and is transported to the neuron cell bodies of the sensory ganglia where it replicates actively and/or establishes latency. Viral invasion of the brain may result in massive virus replication and production of neurological disease. Virtually all cattle developing neurological disease die of meningoencephalitis; yet the infection may be subclinical in some animals. These animals recover and become latently infected. Viral dissemination within a herd is facilitated by conditions such as crowding, introduction of cattle from other herds and weaning of calves in ages that coincide with decrease of passive immunity. Certain natural or induced conditions may reactivate the latent virus and favor its transmission and dissemination to other susceptible individuals. The disease may occur as outbreaks or as sporadic cases, with morbidity rates ranging of 0.05%-5%; lethality is almost always 100%. Clinical signs include depression, nasal and ocular discharge, grinding of teeth, circling, blindness, fever, paddling movements, disphagia, abdominal pain, nystagmus, muscle tremors, drooling, incoordinated gait, opisthotonus, head pressing, falls and convulsions. Clinical course is usually 1-15 days. Necropsy findings may be absent but often there is swollen of the rostral portions of the cerebral cortex and flattening of gyri, with softening and segmental yellow discoloration (malacia). As the disease progresses the affected areas become gelatinous and grey and, in advanced cases, there is segmental loss of the cerebral cortex of the frontal lobe of the brain (residual lesion). In several cases there is malacia of the basal nuclei and of the thalamus. Histologically, there is necrotizing non-suppurative meningoencephalitis affecting mainly the cerebral cortex of the frontal lobe associated with eosinophilic intranuclear inclusion bodies in neurons and astrocytes, although the frequency of the inclusion bodies is inconsistent. The diagnosis of meningoencephalitis by BoHV-5 should be based on epidemiology, clinical signs, necropsy and histological findings. The diagnosis should be confirmed by viral isolation in cell culture and/or by detection of viral antigens in brain sections or in exfoliated cells from nasal secretions. The identification and characterization of BoHV-5 can be done by the use of monoclonal antibodies, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and/or by restriction enzyme analysis of the viral genome. There is no specific treatment for the disease. As BoHV-1 and BoHV-5 are antigenically related, vaccination using BoHV-1 vaccines may be recommended as a means of reducing the losses caused by BoHV-5 infection, mainly during outbreaks of neurologic disease. Additionally, measures such as serologic testing of new additions to the herd; and management practices to prevent stress and to reduce conditions for virus dissemination among animals may help in reducing the incidence and the consequences of BoHV-5 infection and disease.

• Bovine herpesvirus-5 BoHV-5 BHV-5 meningoencephalitis viral diseases diseases of cattle neuropathology

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Rissi D.R., Rech R.R., Flores E.F., Kommers G.D. & Barros C.S.L. 2007. [Meningoencephalitis by bovine herpesvirus-5.] Meningoencefalite por herpesvírus bovino-5. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(7):251-260. Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900, Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: claudioslbarros@uol.com.br Meningoencephalitis caused by bovine herpesvirus-5 (BoHV-5) is an often fatal, acute or subacute infectious disease that affects mainly young cattle under stressing conditions. The disease has been recognized in several Brazilian regions and in other parts of the world. BoHV-5 is a double stranded DNA virus member of the Herpesviridae family and subfamily Alphaherpesvirinae. The virus is characterized by rapid and lytic replication in cell cultures and by the ability to establish lifelong latent infection in sensory nerve ganglia of the host. BoHV-5 is transmitted mainly by direct and indirect contact and replicates acutely in the oral, nasal, oropharingeal or ocular mucosae. After primary replication, the virus invades nerve endings and is transported to the neuron cell bodies of the sensory ganglia where it replicates actively and/or establishes latency. Viral invasion of the brain may result in massive virus replication and production of neurological disease. Virtually all cattle developing neurological disease die of meningoencephalitis; yet the infection may be subclinical in some animals. These animals recover and become latently infected. Viral dissemination within a herd is facilitated by conditions such as crowding, introduction of cattle from other herds and weaning of calves in ages that coincide with decrease of passive immunity. Certain natural or induced conditions may reactivate the latent virus and favor its transmission and dissemination to other susceptible individuals. The disease may occur as outbreaks or as sporadic cases, with morbidity rates ranging of 0.05%-5%; lethality is almost always 100%. Clinical signs include depression, nasal and ocular discharge, grinding of teeth, circling, blindness, fever, paddling movements, disphagia, abdominal pain, nystagmus, muscle tremors, drooling, incoordinated gait, opisthotonus, head pressing, falls and convulsions. Clinical course is usually 1-15 days. Necropsy findings may be absent but often there is swollen of the rostral portions of the cerebral cortex and flattening of gyri, with softening and segmental yellow discoloration (malacia). As the disease progresses the affected areas become gelatinous and grey and, in advanced cases, there is segmental loss of the cerebral cortex of the frontal lobe of the brain (residual lesion). In several cases there is malacia of the basal nuclei and of the thalamus. Histologically, there is necrotizing non-suppurative meningoencephalitis affecting mainly the cerebral cortex of the frontal lobe associated with eosinophilic intranuclear inclusion bodies in neurons and astrocytes, although the frequency of the inclusion bodies is inconsistent. The diagnosis of meningoencephalitis by BoHV-5 should be based on epidemiology, clinical signs, necropsy and histological findings. The diagnosis should be confirmed by viral isolation in cell culture and/or by detection of viral antigens in brain sections or in exfoliated cells from nasal secretions. The identification and characterization of BoHV-5 can be done by the use of monoclonal antibodies, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and/or by restriction enzyme analysis of the viral genome. There is no specific treatment for the disease. As BoHV-1 and BoHV-5 are antigenically related, vaccination using BoHV-1 vaccines may be recommended as a means of reducing the losses caused by BoHV-5 infection, mainly during outbreaks of neurologic disease. Additionally, measures such as serologic testing of new additions to the herd; and management practices to prevent stress and to reduce conditions for virus dissemination among animals may help in reducing the incidence and the consequences of BoHV-5 infection and disease.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Schons S.V., Kommers G.D., Pereira G.M., Raffi M.B. & Schild A.L. 2007. [Microscopic, immunohistochemical, and ultra-structural study of the lesions experimentaly induced by Ramaria flavo-brunnescens (Clavariaceae) in cattle.] Estudo histológico, imuno-histoquímico e ultra-estrutural das lesões induzidas experimentalmente por Ramaria flavo-brunnescens (Clavariaceae) em bovinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(7):269-276. Laboratório Regional de Diagnóstico, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Campus Universitário s/n, Pelotas, RS 96010-900, Brazil. E-mail: alschild@terra.com.br The objective of this study was to investigate the pathogenesis of the lesions observed in cattle experimentally poisoned by Ramaria flavo-brunnescens. The mushroom was given to three 9 to10-month-old Jersey calves immediately after harvesting. Daily doses were around 20g/kg of body weight during 7 (Calf 1) or 13 days (Calves 2-3), and the total doses of mushroom given were 140, 268, and 261g/kg of body weight, respectively. One calf (Calf 4) with same age and breed was used as control. Clinical signs were characterized by prostration, anorexia, hyperemia of oral mucosa, and loosening of long hairs of the tail tip under mild traction. The calves were submitted to euthanasia and necropsied on days 8 (Calf 1) and 15 (Calves 2-4) after the beginning of the experiment. Microscopically, there was smoothness of dorsal epithelium of tongue with absence of filiform papillae, vacuolation of keratinocytes, and loosening of the keratin layer. In the hooves, there was vacuolation and irregular keratinization of the laminar epidermis and hyperplasia of keratinocytes. Hyperkeratosis, vacuolation of the external root sheath, thickening of tricholemal keratin, and inflammatory infiltration around hair follicles were observed on the skin of the tail tip. Immunohistochemical results with anti-pancytoceratin and anti-Ki67 (cell proliferation marker) antibodies showed no differences between the tongue dorsal epithelium of the control and experimental calves. Ultrastructural study demonstrated decrease in tonofilaments and increased intercellular spaces of the spinous layer of the tongue dorsal epithelium. The results of this study favor the hypothesis of an interference with the epithelial keratinization mechanisms by the toxic principles of Ramaria flavo-brunnescens.

• Ramaria flavo-brunnecens mushroom poisoning cattle diseases pathology

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Schons S.V., Kommers G.D., Pereira G.M., Raffi M.B. & Schild A.L. 2007. [Microscopic, immunohistochemical, and ultra-structural study of the lesions experimentaly induced by Ramaria flavo-brunnescens (Clavariaceae) in cattle.] Estudo histológico, imuno-histoquímico e ultra-estrutural das lesões induzidas experimentalmente por Ramaria flavo-brunnescens (Clavariaceae) em bovinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(7):269-276. Laboratório Regional de Diagnóstico, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Campus Universitário s/n, Pelotas, RS 96010-900, Brazil. E-mail: alschild@terra.com.br The objective of this study was to investigate the pathogenesis of the lesions observed in cattle experimentally poisoned by Ramaria flavo-brunnescens. The mushroom was given to three 9 to10-month-old Jersey calves immediately after harvesting. Daily doses were around 20g/kg of body weight during 7 (Calf 1) or 13 days (Calves 2-3), and the total doses of mushroom given were 140, 268, and 261g/kg of body weight, respectively. One calf (Calf 4) with same age and breed was used as control. Clinical signs were characterized by prostration, anorexia, hyperemia of oral mucosa, and loosening of long hairs of the tail tip under mild traction. The calves were submitted to euthanasia and necropsied on days 8 (Calf 1) and 15 (Calves 2-4) after the beginning of the experiment. Microscopically, there was smoothness of dorsal epithelium of tongue with absence of filiform papillae, vacuolation of keratinocytes, and loosening of the keratin layer. In the hooves, there was vacuolation and irregular keratinization of the laminar epidermis and hyperplasia of keratinocytes. Hyperkeratosis, vacuolation of the external root sheath, thickening of tricholemal keratin, and inflammatory infiltration around hair follicles were observed on the skin of the tail tip. Immunohistochemical results with anti-pancytoceratin and anti-Ki67 (cell proliferation marker) antibodies showed no differences between the tongue dorsal epithelium of the control and experimental calves. Ultrastructural study demonstrated decrease in tonofilaments and increased intercellular spaces of the spinous layer of the tongue dorsal epithelium. The results of this study favor the hypothesis of an interference with the epithelial keratinization mechanisms by the toxic principles of Ramaria flavo-brunnescens.