Ultrasound Changes Research Articles

Pseudomembranous cystitis in cats with presumed or confirmed mineralization: A retrospective study of 26 cases (2016-2021).

Pseudomembranous cystitis (PMC) in cats is a recognized disease, but concurrent mineralization is reported rarely and its outcome is poorly described. Describe a population of cats with PMC and the prevalence of concurrent mineralization. Twenty-six cats with PMC. Medical records were retrospectively reviewed (January 2016 to December 2021). Cats with an ultrasound diagnosis of PMC were included. Clinicopathologic results, imaging, treatment, and outcome were reviewed. All cats were male and 21 (80%) were diagnosed with urethral obstruction (UO). Five cats (23.8%) had positive urine culture (Staphylococcus felis, 3/5; Proteus mirabilis, 2/5) with a median urine pH of 8 (range, 6-9). All cats had ultrasonographic changes suggestive of mineralization. On ultrasound examination, 10 cats (38.5%) had pseudomembranes with acoustic shadowing suggestive of mineralization, 15 (57.7%) had changes indicative of ulceration, and 8 (31%) had changes compatible with of a urachal anomaly. Twenty-two cats received medical treatment, 4 underwent surgery (3 percutaneous cystolithotomy, 1 cystotomy). Twenty cats (77%) survived to discharge. Follow-up ultrasound examination indicated resolution of PMC in 6/7 cats, 4 had persistent hyperechoic bladder lining. Five of 12 cats with follow-up had a relapse of lower urinary tract signs. Pseudomembranous cystitis was diagnosed mainly in male cats with UO and imaging findings suggestive of mineralization were present in all cases. Frequent negative urine culture suggests a different etiology than encrusting cystitis related to urease-positive bacteria. Good outcomes can be achieved with medical management.

Muscle ultrasound in patients with late-onset Pompe disease identified by newborn screening

ImportanceImplementation of newborn screening (NBS) in the United States now detects infants with late-onset Pompe disease (LOPD), a lysosomal storage disease characterized by slowly progressive muscle weakness, and detailed clinical evaluation has identified early muscle weakness. Biomarkers may be uninformative; thus, non-invasive imaging is needed to assess early LOPD muscle changes. Muscle ultrasound (US) measuring echointensity (EI) is a non-invasive measure of muscle health. ObjectiveIn this study, we aimed to evaluate if EI can identify characteristic patterns of muscle involvement in LOPD patients identified by NBS. Design/settingProspective, cross-sectional, single time point study. SettingOne-center study. ParticipantsWe examined 20 infants with NBS-identified LOPD (ages 5–20 months). All had standardized physical therapy assessments. ExposuresCreatine Kinase (CK) and Urine Hexose Tetrasaccharide (Glc4) were obtained. Muscle US of deltoid, biceps brachii, forearm flexors, thoracic paraspinals, gluteus maximus, quadriceps, tibialis anterior and medial gastrocnemius was performed. Main outcomes and measuresMean EI was calculated for all involved muscle groups. Quantitative EI Sum Scores were calculated as total EI divided by number of muscle groups assessed. We performed a comprehensive literature review to compare our results to previous LOPD muscle ultrasound studies. ResultsSix of 20 participants had elevated CK and 15 had ≥50% of the most common concerning kinematic physical findings; with normal urine Glc4 in all except one. Based upon muscle EI, the most affected muscles were quadriceps and medial gastrocnemius, with notable elevated EI in thoracic paraspinals. Biceps brachii was the most frequently affected upper extremity muscle. EI sum scores correlated moderately with increasing CK. Statistically significant positive correlation was found between posterior pelvic tilt in sitting and EI of gluteus maximus. Sonographic pattern of muscle involvement was similar to previous studies assessing older patients with LOPD. Conclusions and relevanceIn this study, muscle EI was elevated most often in the quadriceps, tibialis anterior, medial gastrocnemius, thoracic paraspinals, and biceps brachii. Involved muscles generally fit the profile of physical and muscle ultrasound/MRI exam findings in LOPD patients. Muscle ultrasound is recommended for rapid, focused muscle assessment in LOPD, especially those identified via NBS. Future studies should focus on this pattern of ultrasonographic abnormality and changes over time.

Comparison of serum amyloid A concentrations in mares with experimentally induced placentitis to normal, pregnant mares using a commercially available, stall-side device

Ascending bacterial placentitis, a significant cause of pregnancy loss in mares, is challenging to diagnose. Diagnostic tools for ascending placentitis include detection of premature mammary development, vulvar discharge, and ultrasonographic changes to the caudal fetal membranes. These tools have limited sensitivity. Changes in serum biomarkers (ie, serum amyloid A, SAA) provide useful, adjunct information for diagnosing placentitis, but point-of-care assays are limited. The goal of this study was to evaluate a quantitative, stall-side test (Stablelab®, Zoetis, NJ, USA) to measure SAA concentrations in plasma from mares with experimentally induced placentitis compared to normal pregnant mares. We hypothesized that SAA concentrations in mares with placentitis would be higher than normal pregnant mares and that changes in SAA would be predictive of placentitis. Placentitis was induced in 12 mares (270-300 days gestation) with trans-cervical deposition of 1 × 107 Streptococcus zooepidemicus directly onto the chorioallantois. Infected mares were randomly assigned to: infected/untreated (UNTREATED; n=6); or infected/firocoxib (FIRO; n=6; administered firocoxib two days prior to infection until abortion/delivery). Gestationally age-matched, normal pregnant mares were assigned to NORM (n=6). Plasma samples were obtained from mares prior to the study (Day 0) and daily until abortion/delivery. Mares from NORM were sampled similarly to infected, gestation-matched mares. Duplicate plasma samples from post-infection Days 0-9, and peripartum, were evaluated for SAA concentrations using a Stablelab® system, permanufacturer's instructions. SAA concentrations from mares were compared between groups (UNTREATED, FIRO, NORM). To normalize distribution, data were log-transformed and groups compared (geometric means ± SE) using a two-sided t-test. Differences were not identified between infected mares (UNTREATED/FIRO), so SAA concentrations from all infected mares were grouped (INFECT; n=12) and compared to NORM (n=6). Significance was set at P < 0.05. SAA concentrations were significantly higher in INFECT than NORM by Day 4 post-infection (17.81µg/mL± 10.44 v. 0.76µg/mL± 0.62) and remained significantly higher through Day 9 post-infection (412.32µg/mL± 306.67 v. 0.40µg/mL± 0.04). Prior to foaling, SAA concentrations for INFECT were significantly greater than NORM at -48h (34.72 µg/mL± 23.07 v. 0.41µg/mL± 0.31); -24h (85.32 µg/mL± 48.09 v. 0.6µg/mL± 0.58); at foaling (130.19 µg/mL± 68.97 v. 0.41µg/mL± 0.31); and 24h after foaling (468.25 µg/mL± 224.15 v. 7.63 µg/mL± 4.95). These data showed that mares with experimentally induced placentitis had higher concentrations of SAA than normal foaling mares, early after infection and prior to foaling. Differences in SAA concentrations were detectable using a commercially available, stall-side product (Stablelab®, Zoetis). Monitoring SAA, with a point-of-care assay, may provide useful, adjunct information for diagnosing bacterial placentitis in mares. Funding: Grayson Jockey Club; Zoetis; Merial; Kentucky Thoroughbred Breeders, University of Florida

WS08.02 Change in hepatobiliary ultrasound measures, incl. shear wave elastography, after introduction of elexacaftor/tezacaftor/ivacaftor: results from 12-month follow-up in the Danish cystic fibrosis cohort

Objectives: A new era in cystic fibrosis (CF) since the introduction of CF transmembrane conductance regulator modulators with elexacaftor/tezacaftor/ivacaftor (ETI) is marked by significantly improved lung function and nutritional status. However, the impact of ETI on the liver remains poorly characterized, as advanced liver disease was an exclusion criterion in clinical trials. Clinical experience from the Danish CF cohort has shown ETI to be generally well-tolerated in term of liver biomarkers. The objective of this study is to assess hepatobiliary ultrasonographic changes before and twelve months after the initiation of ETI.

Proximal segmental ostectomy under standing sedation for treatment of open comminuted axially displaced fractures of the fourth metatarsal bone in two horses

SummaryTwo cases with open, comminuted, axially displaced fractures of the proximal third of the fourth metatarsal bone were referred to the University Equine Hospital Vienna. Due to concerns regarding the risk of injury to the suspensory ligament and risk of implant infection with an open configuration, surgical treatment with proximal ostectomy of the fractured fourth metatarsal bone was performed in both cases. Based on telephone follow‐up, Case 1 was reported to be sound with no significant reaction at the surgical site 22 months following the procedure and Case 2 exhibited intermittent lameness, radiographically evident irregular new bone formation and some residual ultrasonographic changes of the proximal suspensory ligament 17 months after the procedure. Based on the results of this report, a proximal ostectomy facilitated by standing sedation and regional anaesthesia is a valid treatment option in cases of open, axially displaced fractures of the fourth metatarsal bone, minimising perioperative complications but not excluding long‐term postoperative complications.

Long-term effects of radioiodine treatment on thyroid functions and ultrasonographic features in patients with toxic adenoma and toxic multinodular goitre.

This study aimed to investigate the long-term effect of radioiodine (RAI) treatment on thyroid functions and ultrasonographic changes in the thyroid gland and toxic nodules. Thyroid function tests and ultrasonography reports of patients diagnosed with toxic adenoma (TA) or toxic multinodular goitre (TMNG) between 2000 and 2021 were retrospectively analysed. We included 100 patients whom thyroid function and ultrasonography results were obtained from our outpatient clinic before and at least 36months post-RAI. At the end of the follow-up period, the mean thyroid volume reduction in patients with TA and TMNG was 56.6% ± 3.1% and 51.1% ± 6.7%, respectively; the mean volume decrease of all toxic nodules was 80.5% ± 1.9%. The volume of the thyroid and toxic nodules was significantly reduced up to 12years (p < 0.01). Between 3 and 10years after RAI therapy, the annual incidence of hypothyroidism was 2.0% and 1.5% in the TA and TMNG groups, respectively. Toxic nodules were more frequently solid and hypoechoic in post-RAI ultrasounds (p < 0.01). The volume of thyroid gland and toxic nodules continuously decreases, as the risk of hypothyroidism increases up to 10years after RAI treatment. After RAI treatment, patients should be followed up to check their thyroid functions. In post-RAI examinations, toxic nodules may show ultrasonographic features suspicious for malignancy. History taking should include previous RAI therapies and old scintigraphy scans should be evaluated to avoid unnecessary procedures and non-diagnostic biopsy results.

General anesthesia does not induce ultrasonographic changes in the pleura of healthy adult horses anesthetized for elective magnetic resonance imaging.

To compare thoracic ultrasonographic findings in healthy horses before and after general anesthesia for elective MRI utilizing a recently developed ultrasonographic scoring system to aid clinicians in the early identification of pneumonia following anesthesia. 13 adult horses > 3 years of age. Prior to anesthesia, horses underwent a thorough physical examination, CBC, thoracic radiography, and thoracic ultrasonography. Horses were then anesthetized for elective MRI, and thoracic ultrasonography was repeated within 3 hours after recovery. Thoracic ultrasonographic findings were scored utilizing a recently developed scoring system, and scores were compared before and after anesthesia. There was no significant difference identified in total thoracic ultrasonography score before and after anesthesia, and there was no correlation between thoracic ultrasonography score following anesthesia and the body weight of the horse, the time recumbent, and the dependent side. In healthy horses undergoing anesthesia for elective imaging, there was no significant change in thoracic ultrasonographic findings 3 hours after recovery from anesthesia. These data can aid clinicians in determining the clinical significance of ultrasonographic changes in the lung in the immediate postanesthetic period.

Ultrasonographic and histopathologic features associated with common ocular diseases in donkeys (Equus asinus)

There is a lack of reports describing ultrasonographic and histopathologic features of ocular diseases in donkeys. The present study aimed to document ultrasonographic and histopathologic changes associated with common ocular diseases in donkeys. The study included 45 donkeys (64 eyes) with ocular diseases that had reached the end of their working lives and requested to be used for educational and research purposes. Complete clinical, ophthalmic, ultrasonographic, gross pathologic and histopathologic examinations were included. Ocular abnormalities were documented, tabulated, and analyzed. Seventy-five ocular abnormalities were diagnosed with multiple involvements within the same eye including anterior uveitis (n = 13; 22.8%), cataract (n = 57; 76%), retinal detachment (n = 3; 4%), lens and phthisis bulbi (n = 2; 2.6%). Descriptive ultrasonographic findings of ocular abnormalities were included. Gross pathologic and histopathology findings confirmed the ultrasonography findings. Ultrasonography provided a clinically useful tool offering insight into detailed intraocular structures especially with opacification of the dioptric structures of the eye.

Long-Term Ultrasonographic and Histologic Changes in Acellular Dermal Matrix in Implant-Based Breast Reconstructions.

Acellular dermal matrix (ADM) is composed of extracellular matrix (ECM) and is widely used in implant-based breast reconstructions. However, long-term changes in the ADM around implants have not been established. This study aimed to investigate long-term changes in the ADM covering breast implants using serial ultrasound and histologic evaluations. The authors evaluated the ultrasound results of 145 patients who underwent implant-based breast reconstructions with ADM coverings. The ultrasound results obtained within 18 months of surgery and those obtained 5 years postoperatively were analyzed to determine the change in ADM thickness. For histologic analysis, the ADM was harvested from 30 patients who underwent secondary breast surgery. Histologic features of the ECM and cellular components within the ADM were compared at specific intervals from ADM implantation and the second operation (early ADM group, <18 months; late ADM group, >5 years postoperatively). The ADM thickness on ultrasound examination was significantly decreased in the late ADM group compared with that in the early ADM group ( P < 0.001). Histologic analyses revealed that the late ADM group had less thickness with lower ECM levels versus the early ADM group. Increased infiltration of host cells, such as vascular endothelial cells, myofibroblasts, and immune cells, occurred in the late ADM group. Implanted ADMs underwent gradual thinning over time, in addition to ECM reduction and infiltration of host cells. These findings are useful in understanding the natural course of ADMs currently used in implant-based breast reconstructions. Therapeutic, V.

Ultrasonographic and pathomorphological changes in Alimentary Lymphoma in cats

The study aimed to determine the characteristic changes in alimentary lymphoma in cats during ultrasonography, pathoanatomic and cytological examination of biopsy material. The survey objects are cats with gastroenterological disorders with suspected alimentary lymphoma of different ages and genders. The diagnosis was made based on a clinical examination according to generally accepted methods, laboratory blood examination, ultrasound examination, pathomorphological examination of the intestinal walls and lymph nodes, and cytological examination of the lymph node material obtained by the TIAB method. The authors carried out the material sampling for cytological examination using percutaneous fine needle aspiration (FNA) biopsy under ultrasound control on the Mindray Z6 Vet apparatus. In addition, the authors conducted pathological and cytological studies in the Vet Union laboratory. When analyzing ultrasound examination in cats diagnosed with alimentary lymphoma, hepatomegaly, 1% ascites, 3% hydrothorax, 3 % increase in mediastinal lymph nodes, 7% splenomegaly, 16% violation of differentiation of intestinal layers, 16% violation of differentiation of intestinal layers, 29% increase in mesenteric lymph nodes, 29 % thickening of intestinal walls were observed in 12% of cases. Cytological examination revealed rounded, large, separately located cells. The population is monomorphic. During a histological study in the intestinal wall, adjacent fatty tissue of the omentum, and lymph node tissue, there is a highly cellular invasive formation constructed from diffuse layers of rounded lymphoid neoplastic cells with a scanty fibrous stroma. The most characteristic ultrasound findings are the thickening of the intestinal walls and an increase in mesenteric lymph nodes.

Comparative Ultrasonographic Evaluation of the Masseter Muscle in Patients with and without Oral Submucous Fibrosis

Background: The gold standard for diagnosing oral submucous fibrosis (OSF) is histopathology, but it causes scarring and worsens the illness. Ultrasonography (USG) has been employed in recent research to assess the cross-sectional dimensions of head and neck muscles in OSF patients. Aim: This study aimed to evaluate the ultrasonographic changes in the cross-sectional thickness of masseteric muscle in patients with and without OSF. Also, to compare the cross-sectional thickness of masseteric muscle in patients with different clinical stages and histologic grades of OSF. Methods: The study was conducted in accordance with the Declaration of Helsinki. The protocol was approved by the Institutional Ethics Committee, and written informed consent was obtained from all patients. The study population was divided into cases and controls. Cases consisted of 63 patients clinically diagnosed as having OSF and controls consisted of 63 persons selected from the patients attending the department of Oral Medicine and Radiology. According to Khanna and Andrade’s criteria, OSF patients were divided into four groups based on their clinical findings. Ultrasonography of masseter muscle was performed with a high-resolution real-time LOGIQUE C5 ultrasound scanner with 7–12 MHz transducers. Results: One-way ANOVA and t test were used to evaluate the results. The study showed a clear association of masseter muscle hypertrophy with OSF. In controls, ultrasound measurements of masseter muscle thickness were statistically significant. In the case group, masseter muscle thickness was increased as the duration and frequency of the chewing increased and also as the disease progressed. Conclusions: USG is a valuable, radiation-free, and noninvasive better diagnostic tool than clinical and histopathological examinations for OSF evaluation.

Testicular alterations and semen quality in a selected group of breeding buffaloes.

Testicular ultrasound enables the evaluation of changes in the testicular parenchyma. This study aimed to report the occurrence of hypoechogenic testicular alterations and their relationship with semen quality in five breeding buffaloes. Two buffaloes presented with hyperechoic points characteristic of fibrosis and anechoic density content between the parietal and visceral tunica. The two bulls without ultrasonographic changes showed higher average trajectory speed, linear velocity, curvilinear velocity, amplitude of lateral displacement of the spermatic head, total motility, progressive motility, fast speed, and acrosomal membrane values within the normal range. The number of spermatozoa with major and total defects was higher in the group of animals without alterations. The three buffaloes that presented with testicular alterations produced semen within established freezing standards.

Role of blood beta-hydroxybutyric acid estimation as a diagnostic marker of feline hepatic lipidosis

Feline hepatic lipidosis (FHL), characterised by an accumulation of triglycerides in the cytoplasm of hepatocytes, is a common and potentially fatal liver disorder in cats. Hepatic lipidosis in cats can develop due to any condition that will impair nutrient uptake and is often presented with non-specific clinical signs. The present study describes the diagnosis of FHL based on clinicobiochemical, ultrasonographic, and cytological changes and evaluates the diagnostic utility of blood beta-hydroxybutyric acid (βHBA) estimation in FHL. Anorexia, weight loss, lethargy, vomiting, dehydration, and jaundice were the common clinical findings in cats with hepatic lipidosis. Serum biochemical evaluation revealed elevations in alkaline phosphatase (ALP), triglycerides, glucose, and total bilirubin. Ultrasonography revealed an enlarged hyperechoic liver. Fine-needle aspiration cytology of the liver revealed mild to severe vacuolation in the cytoplasm of hepatocytes. Blood beta-hydroxybutyric acid levels were found higher in cats with hepatic lipidosis than in healthy cats and cats with other hepatic disorders. Therefore, βHBA estimation, being a quick and non-invasive method, could be considered as a diagnostic marker in the early diagnosis of FHL.

Clinical and ultrasonographic assessment of traumatic pericarditis and traumatic reticuloperitonitis in buffaloes

Traumatic injury by a foreign body is a common cause of traumatic pericarditis (TP) and traumatic reticuloperitonitis in buffaloes. Both mimics almost the same clinical sign under field conditions. Clinical, hematobiochemical and ultrasonographic changes between TP and TRP cases in buffaloes were evaluated in the present study. From the period of January 2020 to December 2020, a total of twelve buffaloes were investigated with TP and TRP conditions. Six animals each suffering from TP and TRP were included along with six normal healthy animals as control. Different clinical signs, haemato-biochemical parameters and ultrasonographical findings were recorded in each group and comparative analysis was done. Brisket edema in TP affected buffaloes and arch back condition in TRP affected buffaloes was the common clinical finding. Ferroscopy was performed to confirm the location of foreign body. Jugular pulsation was noted in Group II as well as Group III buffalo. A significant increase in WBC count and a significant decrease in hematocrit was noted in Group III animals compared to healthy animals. SGOT and fibrinogen concentration was significantly increased in both group animals. Anechoic fluid accumulation in TP and thickening of the reticular wall in TRP were the most consistent ultrasonographic findings in buffaloes.

Patellar ligament desmopathy in the horse – a review and comparison to human patellar tendinopathy (‘Jumper’s knee’)

Patellar ligament desmopathy in horses is regarded as an uncommon condition with unclear aetiology. Of the three patellar ligaments in the horse, the intermediate is the one most often diagnosed with desmopathy in horses presenting with chronic lameness. This structure corresponds to the patellar tendon in humans. As diagnostic imaging modalities continuously improve, changes in echogenicity of the patellar ligaments are identified ultrasonographically with increasing frequency. However, disruption of the normal fibre pattern may be present also in patellar ligaments in horses that show no signs of lameness. Similarly, there is a poor correlation between pain and diagnostic imaging findings in human patellar tendinopathy. Consequently, there appears to be a knowledge gap pertaining to normal ultrasonographic variation and diagnostic criteria for disease of the patellar ligaments in horses. Furthermore, local anaesthetic techniques to verify the diagnosis are poorly described, and due to the low number of treated cases, no specific treatment modality can be recommended on a scientific basis. The aim of this paper is to review the current knowledge regarding the pathogenesis, diagnosis and management of patellar ligament desmopathy in horses, compare this condition with patellar tendinopathy in humans, and identify areas for further research to increase the diagnostic accuracy in horses. We conclude that there is a profound need for better descriptions of ultrasonographic variation and pathological changes of the equine patellar ligaments. Identification of areas of maximal ligament strain and descriptions of early histopathological changes could render more information on the possible aetiology, preventive measurements and treatment options of desmopathy. Description of regional innervation could aid in development of methods for diagnostic anaesthesia to verify pain originating from the ligaments.

Ultrasonographic changes in quadriceps femoris thickness in women with normal pregnancy and women on bed rest for threatened preterm labor

This study aimed to evaluate the changes in quadriceps femoris muscle thickness during the pregnancy and postpartum periods and to elucidate the effect of bed rest for threatened preterm labor on muscle thickness. In 26 women with normal pregnancy, quadriceps femoris thickness was measured at 11–13, 26, 30, and 35 weeks’ gestation, and at 3–5 days and 1 month postpartum using ultrasonography. In 15 pregnant women treated with bed rest for threatened premature labor, quadriceps femoris thickness was measured at 30 and 35 weeks’ gestation and postpartum. In women with normal pregnancy, quadriceps femoris thickness increased, peaking at 35 weeks’ gestation, followed by a postpartum decrease. In women on bed rest, quadriceps femoris thickness showed no significant change during the pregnancy and postpartum periods, and the muscle was significantly thinner at 35 weeks’ gestation than that in women with normal pregnancy. In conclusion, a significant increase in quadriceps femoris muscle thickness during normal pregnancy was found using ultrasonography. Meanwhile, in pregnant women on bed rest treatment, the quadriceps femoris was significantly thinner in the late third trimester than that in normal pregnant women. Prolonged bed rest can affect normal changes in the quadriceps femoris muscle thickness during the pregnancy and postpartum periods.

Ultrasonographic changes in fetal gastrointestinal motility during the last ten days before parturition in dogs.

Fetal gastrointestinal motility (FGM) was suggested as useful to assess fetal maturity. Our study aimed to quantify FGM in relation to days before parturition (DBP), maternal size, and sex ratio of pups. During the last ten days of pregnancy, 23 clinically healthy pregnant bitches of 16 different breeds ranging in age from 2 to 9 years and body weight from 3.5 to 56.8 kg were monitored twice. The fetal intestine was observed in longitudinal and transversal scan on 3 of the most caudal fetuses in both uterine horns. Gestational age was counted backward from parturition day. The number of fetuses showing FGM was recorded in time in I (-11/-5 DBP) and II (-4/0 DBP). A Mann-Whitney test was performed to analyze variations of FGM% in relation to time and parity. A Kruskal-Wallis test was performed to identify variations of FGM% in relation to maternal size and sex ratio. Statistical significance was set at α = 0.05. A total of 147 FGM observations on 50 ultrasonographic monitoring points were performed. The FGM% was higher during time II compared to time I (median: 33%, range 0-100% vs. 100%, range 33-100%; P < 0.0001). FGM% was higher in small compared to large size bitches (median: 100%, range 67-100% vs. 67%, range 0-100%; P = 0.01). FGM% was not affected by parity and sex ratio. As previously reported, a significant increase in FGM% was observed in the last five DBP. FGM observation may be influenced by the maternal size, with easier evaluation in small size bitches, as well as ultrasound equipment and positioning.

Ultrasonographic findings in patients with chronic kidney disease with asymptomatic hyperuricemia

BackgroundMusculoskeletal ultrasound is a useful, noninvasive tool to detect anatomical damage in the hyaline cartilage, synovial tissue, and tendons of individuals with asymptomatic hyperuricemia. This study aimed to determine the frequency of musculoskeletal ultrasonographic findings related to hyperuricemia among CKD patients and its relation to chronic musculoskeletal pain and their quality of life.ResultsDouble contour (DC) was found in12%,18%, and 22% of the knee, ankle, and 1st MTPs joints, respectively. Hyper-echoic cloud was present in 2% and 6% of the knee and 1st MTPs, respectively. Synovitis was seen in 8%, 4%, and 16% of the knee, ankle, and 1st MTPs joints, respectively. Patellar tendon showed enthesopathy in 14% and tophus in 8% of cases. Tibialis posterior tenosynovitis was in 2% and peroneii tenosynovitis in 2%. Achilles tendon showed calcific foci in 24%, enthesopathy in 20%, and tophi in 4%. First MTPs showed erosion in 10% and tophi in 4%. There were statistically significant relations of pain index to DC, synovial thickening at the knee and at ankle joint. There were statistically significant relations of serum uric acid level to DC.There were statistically significant correlations of serum uric acid level to the 36-Item Short Form Survey (SF-36).ConclusionsUntreated hyperuricemia might cause musculoskeletal ultrasonographic changes that could cause chronic musculoskeletal pain and decrease quality of life in chronic kidney disease patients.

Ovarian and Uterine Dynamics During the Estrous Cycle in Criollo Breed Mares

After having been brought to America 400 years ago, the Criollo horse reproduced freely for centuries in the southern part of the American continent. Roughness, resistance, and endurance are typical characteristics of this breed of horses. Although the natural selection that occurred over the centuries may have positively influenced the fertility and longevity of this breed, information regarding ovarian function and other reproductive aspects of Criollo breed mares under natural or controlled management conditions is scarce. The objectives of the present study were to (1) characterize the follicular dynamics of Criollo breed mares, (2) characterize growth and regression of the corpus luteum, and (3) study the cervical and uterine tone and ultrasonographic echotexture changes during two consecutive estrous cycles. In this study, 26 interovulatory intervals (IOI) were evaluated in 13 mares. Spontaneous estrous cycles were characterized by the following: (1) the IOI length was 21 days; (2) dominant and subordinate follicles emerged together at day 5 (ovulation = day 0), and their growth rates were slower until the day of deviation; (3) the deviation in growth rates between the two largest follicles of the ovulatory wave occurred when the dominant and subordinate follicles reached 22 and 21 mm in diameter, respectively; (4) the mean diameter of the preovulatory follicle at the day before ovulation was 43 mm; (5) different combinations of follicular waves were observed in each interovulatory interval; (6) the corpus luteum reached its maximum diameter about 2 days after ovulation and decreased gradually afterward; (7) after ovulation, the cervical and uterine tones were positively correlated and remained elevated until the onset of the expected luteolysis (days 12–14); and (8) after the expected luteolysis, the endometrial echotexture started to increase and reached maximum values 5–3 days before ovulation, when it started to decrease. Moderate-to-strong positive correlations between IOIs revealed repeatability within animals for the diameter of the preovulatory follicle at maximum and at the day before ovulation, cervical and uterine tones, endometrial echotexture, and corpus luteum diameter. The findings herein presented are of fundamental importance for a better understanding of the reproductive physiological patterns of the estrous cycle in the Criollo breed mare.

OC02.05: Ultrasonographic cervical changes occurring after cervical ripening balloon insertion: are there any relationship with labour outcome?

OC02.05: Ultrasonographic cervical changes occurring after cervical ripening balloon insertion: are there any relationship with labour outcome?