Veterinary Clinical Complex Research Articles

Assessment of quinolone resistance in bacteria isolated from corneal ulcers in dogs

Corneal ulcers or ulcerative keratitis is the loss of continuity of corneal epithelium leading to exposure of corneal stroma. It is a highly painful condition in dogs. The common aetiological agents responsible for this condition are bacteria and for treatment, antibiotics are widely used. Indiscriminate and prolonged use of antibiotics can cause antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in bacteria. The present communication deals with the isolation of bacteria from corneal ulcers in dogs and the assessment of quinolone resistance. A total of 15 corneal swab samples were collected from dogs suffering from corneal ulcers, presented to the Department of Veterinary Surgery and Radiology, Teaching Veterinary Clinical Complex, College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Mannuthy. They were inoculated on to brain heart infusion agar as well as blood agar and incubated at 37 °C for 24 h for the isolation of aerobic bacteria. Eighteen isolates obtained were then subjected to antibiotic susceptibility test by disc diffusion method using the quinolone group of antibiotics, viz. ciprofloxacin, enrofloxacin, ofloxacin and moxifloxacin. Majority of the isolates exhibited varying resistance to these antibiotics. Polymerase chain reaction was performed to amplify gyrA gene, which is reported to be one of the reasons responsible for quinolone resistance with respect to its mutation. Seven out of the 18 isolates amplified gyrA gene. The amplicon obtained corresponding to a representative sample, which was found resistant by disc diffusion method was sequenced and a single point mutation was detected.

First report of molecular confirmation and phylogenetic analysis of ocular seteriasis in buffalo in India using 12S rRNA.

An adult Indian buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) presented with corneal opacity, irritation, and excessive lacrimation from the left eye in the Referral Veterinary Polyclinic-Teaching Veterinary Clinical Complex (RVC-TVCC), Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Izatnagar. Clinical examination revealed a whitish thread-like worm in the left eye's anterior chamber. The worm was surgically removed from the eye with supportive nerve blocks. Light microscopy was used for parasite morphological identification, which provided insight into the worm as female Setaria sp. Genomic DNA was isolated, and polymerase chain reaction amplification of 12S rRNA was conducted for molecular confirmation of the parasite. The amplicon was sequenced and analysed by bioinformatics software. Sequence data showed an amplicon size of 243 bp. Phylogenetic analysis with reference data from the NCBI Genbank database revealed the worm was S. digitata, with a similarity of 99.17%. The common predilection site of S. digitata is in the peritoneal cavity of natural hosts like cattle and buffalo and is mostly non-pathogenic. The aberrant migration of the parasite larva to the brain and eye commonly occurs in goats, sheep, and horses, causing clinical conditions like cerebrospinal nematodiasis (lumbar paralysis) and ocular setariasis, respectively. Nevertheless, until now, there have been no reports of ocular setariasis in buffalo. This report is the first unusual occurrence of ocular setariasis in buffalo and its molecular confirmation and phylogenetic analysis using 12S rRNA.

Epidemiological study of pyoderma in dogs of Thrissur district

Pyoderma, refers to any clinical picture that results in the accumulation of neutrophilic exudates of varying degrees in conjunction with a bacterial infection. A longitudinal study was conducted among 178 dogs brought to the small animal dermatology unit of Teaching Veterinary Clinical Complex, Mannuthy and University Veterinary Hospital, Kokkalai, Thrissur, Kerala to document the age, breed and sex predispositions and to identify any environmental influence or managemental practice that predisposes to pyoderma. The overall prevalence of pyoderma was 7.5 per cent. Statistical analyses using Chi square test revealed that there was significant difference in the proportion of animals affected with pyoderma among different categories of age, breed, housing system, bathing practices, kennel hygiene, access to oral coat conditioners and feed supplements. The distribution of animals affected with pyoderma was statistically significant between different seasons also. The condition was commonest in dogs between one to three years of age (46.07 per cent). The Labrador retrievers were more predisposed to developing pyoderma. More females (53.37 per cent) were infected when compared to males (46.63 per cent). Majority of the cases (52.25 per cent) were housed outdoors in a separate kennel and were bathed (68.54 per cent) regularly and groomed (36.52 per cent) at least once a month. The analyses of the epidemiological profile of dogs affected with pyoderma revealed that apart from the host factors, the environmental and managemental aspects also plays an important role in the occurrence of pyoderma.

Successful Management of Dystocia due to Fetal Anasarca in Osmanabadi Goat.

A three year old Osmanabadi goat was reported to the Veterinary Clinical Complex, Udgir with the history of difficulty in parturition. The case was handled by local quack. On per vaginal examination revealed the anasarcous monster which is removed with obstetrical manoeuver and the dam was treated with antibiotic, analgesics and fluid therapy. An uneventful recovery was seen after the treatment.

Canine parvo viral enteritis in dogs: Diagnostic and therapeutic evaluation

A total of 110 dogs presented to Teaching Veterinary Clinical Complex, CSKHPKV, Palampur (H.P.), India with the history of enteritis/gastroenteritis were screened for Canine Parvovirus (CPV). Out of these 110 dogs, 48 dogs were found positive for CPV by using Scanvet - a rapid antigen detection kit. All the 110 samples were subjected to Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) to check whether there were some cases that were false positive or false negative by Scanvet. Positive cases were, then, divided into 4 groups of 12 dogs each, with 4 different treatment regimens followed for each group. In addition to standard treatment protocol, our study tested effect of immunomodulators (Vitamin E & Selenium) and antiviral “Oseltamivir” on recovery of dogs. This type of study (using Oseltamivir and immunomodulators) was not done previously in the state and hence, our aim was to test whether this treatment increases survivability and recovery rate for dogs with Parvoviral enteritis in Himachal Pradesh. Groups containing immunomodulators were more efficacious than their counterparts without immunomodulators. Addition of Oseltamivir and immunomodulators to standard therapy resulted in reduced mortality, cessation of diarrhoea and vomiting earlier than routine therapy. Scanvet diagnostic kit was found to be a quick alternate method for diagnosis of Parvo Viral Enteritis. Overall, the group treated with antibiotic+ supportive+ symptomatic+ antiviral treatment along with immunomodulator displayed promising results.

Fresh preserved canine amniotic membrane (CAM ) as graft for surgical management of melting corneal ulcer/ keratomalacia in a dog

A four-year-old female Spitz with signs of blepharospasm, ocular discolouration, corneal oedema, gelatinisation of cornea and epiphora from the right eye, for 20 days was presented at Teaching Veterinary Clinical Complex, Pookode. Fluorescein dye test (FDT) revealed intense staining of the cornea. The condition was diagnosed as keratomalacia. Under general anaesthesia, fresh preserved canine amniotic membrane (CAM) transplantation was performed along with a third eyelid flap. Antibiotic eye drops and supportives were initiated. Monitoring of corneal healing was done on the 10th, 20th, 30th and 45thdays, post-surgery. FDT turned negative on day 20. Conjunctival hyperaemia, pannus, corneal opacity and oedema improved postoperatively, resulting in good corneal clarity, fundic reflection and normal vision by day 45. The present article reports the successful management of keratomalacia using CAM as graft.

Induction of Parturition using Mifepristone and Misoprostol in Bitch with Single Pup Syndrome

Single puppy syndrome is common in older bitch. It occurs mostly due to the death of embryos during early gestation and resorption before mineralization. A two-year-old Labrador bitch in her first parity was presented to the Veterinary Clinical Complex, Bihar Veterinary College, BASU, Patna with the history of breeding approximately 72 days ago. A lateral abdominal radiograph revealed single fully-grown fetus with anterior presentation in uterus. The bitch was treated with mifepristone and misoprostol for three days. After three days of treatment, bitch delivered a dead fetus and recovered uneventfully.

Acral Lick Dermatitis (Lick granuloma) in an Adult Male Labrador Retriever Dog

Introduction: Acral lick dermatitis is a skin injury commonly noticed in dogs with obsessive licking behavior. The lesions are usually noticed on the distal extremities which become raised, thickened, and plaque-like. 
 Case report: A five-year-old male Labrador retriever dog was presented to the Small Animal Medicine Unit of Veterinary Clinical Complex (VCC), Rajiv Gandhi Institute of Veterinary Education and Research (RIVER), Puducherry, India, with a history of a superficial wound on the metatarsal region of the right hind limb with bleeding and continuous licking since a month. Clinical examination of the lesion showed a nodular eczematous lesion of 2 cm thickness, while other vital parameters were normal. Based on the licking behavior and other investigations, the skin lesions were diagnosed as acral lick dermatitis. Treatment included the application of Ointment Triamcinolone acetonide (topically) for a month. The licking was controlled using E-collar, and the dog was engaged in playful activities to overcome boredom. The lesion regressed completely within a month and hence was treated uneventfully.
 Conclusion: Diagnosis and identifying the root cause of the skin disorder can determine the course of treatment. Topical application of corticosteroids (triamcinolone acetonide) and methods, such as E-collar, to control the licking behavior, helped the animal’s recovery.

Traumatic Encephalitis in Dogs

Introduction: Traumatic encephalitis is the inflammation of the brain caused by external trauma. This condition can lead to the manifestation of various nervous signs.
 Case report: A three-year-old male mongrel was brought to the Small Animal Medicine Unit of the Veterinary Clinical Complex, Rajiv Gandhi Institute of Veterinary Education and Research, Puducherry, India, with a history of hit injury, inappetence, haematuria and circling gait for the past three days. Clinical examination revealed circling gait and swelling at the base of the penis with other normal vital parameters. By the third day, there were some nervous signs, such as circling, head pressing, and torticollis with insomnia. Haemogram revealed anemia and neutrophilia with no evidence of blood parasites or protozoans. Radiological examination of the head and neck revealed increased atlanto-occipital joint space. The condition was diagnosed as traumatic encephalitis and was treated with Mannitol, Phenobarbital, Diazepam, and Renerve plus. A neck collar was also advised for immobilization of the neck. The dog collapsed after 20 days despite the symptomatic treatment.
 Conclusion: The secondary infections caused by encephalitis can leads to death in animals.

Therapeutic Management of Otitis Externa in Dogs

A one year old male German shepherd dog was presented to Veterinary Clinical Complex, College of Veterinary and Animal Science, Navania, Vallabhnagar, Udaipur with the history of head shaking, tilting of the head towards the affected side, foul smell and excessive amount of cerumen coming out from the ear. Clinical manifestation revealed that the dog showed pain while touching the affected area. The cerumen sample from ear was taken and culture test was done. The culture test report revealed the presence of Proteus spp. The dog was treated successfully with the ear cleanser containing 0.2 percent salicylic acid, pomisol ear drop and tablet gentamicin (orally).

Antibiogram Analysis of Escherichia coli Isolates Recovered from Dog Faeces

Antimicrobial resistance is a global problem affecting animals and humans. Improper use of antibiotics by humans, inefficient prevention and control of infections, poor hygiene and sanitation, are causes for the emergence and distribution of antibiotic resistant bacteria. The role of pets is quite significant as disseminators of antimicrobial-resistant bacteria. This study was planned to analyze the antibiotic susceptibility profile of Escherichia coli isolated from dog faeces. The dog faecal samples (n=5) collected from Veterinary Clinical Complex, College of Veterinary and Animal Science, Navania were subjected to bacteriological examination for the isolation and identification of Escherichia coli. The isolates were confirmed by PCR to detect the species specific uspA gene. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing was done to determine the antibiotic susceptibility pattern of the isolates. In the present study, it was revealed that out of 5 dog faecal samples analyzed, E coli was isolated from 4 samples. The PCR analysis revealed a specific amplification of 884 bp product of the uspA gene among the isolates. Further on analyzing the antibiogram, it was found that chloramphenicol, oxytetracycline, azithromycin, ampicillin, co-trimoxazole and ceftriaxone were effective against E. coli. While, the isolates were resistant to amoxicillin and trimethoprim. Therefore, it was concluded that the screening of cultures by antimicrobial susceptibility testing will not only help in deciding the right antibiotic for treatment but also identify the shifting trends of antimicrobial resistance.

Isolation and Antibiogram of Escherichia coli from Canine Pyometra in Puducherry Region

Pyometra is a life-threatening and hormone induced cystic endometrial hyperplasia seen predominantly in older bitches, complicated with secondary bacterial infections. This study was performed with the objective of isolation and antibiogram of Escherichia coli from canine pyometra. Vaginal swabs were collected aseptically from 20 canine pyometra cases, presented to Veterinary Clinical Complex, Puducherry (India) for identification of E. coli isolates. Based on colony characters, microscopic observation, biochemical tests, 12 (60%) E. coli isolates were identified. All the 12 phenotypically positive E. coli isolates were confirmed further by PCR using the primer targeting alr gene. E. coli isolates were found sensitive to Gentamicin (100%), Ceftriaxone (83%), Enrofloxacin (75%) and Ciprofloxacin (66%), but were resistant to commonly used antibiotics like Amoxyclav (100%), Ceftazidime (58%) and Cefotaxime (42%). The results provided an authentic and reliable information to choose an effective antibiotic to treat E. coli infection causing canine pyometra.

First Report of Molecular Identification of Prototheca zopfii Genotype 2 as Causative Agent of Bovine Mastitis in Navsari, South Gujarat, India

Prototheca species is emerged as an important causative agent for bovine mastitis worldwide, and is responsible for great economic losses for dairy industry. A 5-year-old HF cow was referred to the Veterinary Clinical Complex of the College, Navsari (India) with a complaint of watery milk with flakes, anorexia and drop in milk production. On physical examination, udder appeared warm and swollen, while milk consistency was thin, watery with flakes. Milk sample obtained aseptically from the cow was inoculated aerobically on Sabouraud dextrose agar and blood agar plates. Prototheca colonies grew in pure and luxuriant form from mastitic milk on both the plates after 48 h of incubation. Prototheca zopfii was identified on the basis of colony morphology, staining characters and biochemical reactions. Molecular confirmation of Prototheca zopfii genotype 2 was performed by employing polymerase chain reaction (PCR). This report presents first isolation and molecular identification of Prototheca zopfii genotype 2 from a case of bovine mastitis from Navsari region, South Gujarat, India.

Successful Management of Left Sided Post-Cervical Uterine Torsion in Goat with Modified Schaffer’s Method

A Non-descript doe with completion of gestation period with the history of straining, restlessness and engorged udder was brought to the Teaching Veterinary Clinical Complex, College of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Udgir. Per-vaginal examination revealed that the Goat has post-cervical left sided uterine torsion of more than 180° which was successfully treated by modified Schaffer’s method. The live female kid was delivered with gentle traction. An uneventful recovery was seen after the kidding and treatment with Antibiotic and Supportive therapy for three days.

Comparative efficacy of ivermectin and fenbendazole against ancylostomiasis in dogs.

The present experiment was carried out to assess the comparative efficacy of ivermectin and fenbendazole individually for anthelmintic therapy for the hookworm infested dogs. Dogs presented to the Department of Veterinary Clinical Medicine or Veterinary Clinical Complex, Bhubaneswar were randomly screened for Ancylostoma caninum infection and the positive dogs were selected for the therapeutic trial Faecal samples were collected randomly from presented dogs immediately after defaecation or from the rectum directly using a faecal scoop. The collected sample was examined by floatation technique to detect the positive cases of Ancylostoma caninum infection. The dogs with normal clinical parameters and no eggs or ova in the faeces were included in in group 1 (n = 12). Dogs with faecal sample positive for Ancylostoma caninum ova were recruited for the comparative study (n = 24) which were grouped into two groups consisting of 12 dogs in each (group 2 and 3). Group 2 dogs (n = 12) were treated with ivermectin at 200µg/kg body weight once orally repeated after 15days with proper supportive therapy each time. Group 3 (n = 12) were treated with fenbendazole at 50mg/kg body weight once orally repeated after 15days with proper supportive therapy each time. Haematological examinations and serum biochemical tests were carried out in all groups each time on day 0, 15 and 30 of the experiment. The therapeutic efficacy of both the drugs was calculated on the basis of number of animals found free of Ancylostoma infection as determined by reduction in EPG count of the faeces of the group following the treatment. The reduction in eggs per gram (EPG) count on day 15 and day 30 was more significant in group 2 than group 3. The mean EPG count reduced significantly to 24.17 ± 11.44 on day 15 from day 0 level of 1650.00 ± 247.25 in fenbendazole-treated dogs. On day 30, the mean value further reduced to become nil.The 15th day after treatment, mean (± SE) value of protein, albumin and globulin was changed to 5.63 ± 0.12, 2.64 ± 0.12 and 2.99 ± 0.15g/dl, respectively. The 30th day after treatment, the values were 6.23 ± 0.14, 3.20 ± 0.18 and 3.03 ± 0.21g/dl, respectively. The total protein and albumin values were significantly changed from day 0 level in group 2 and 3 by 15th day and 30th day, respectively, at 1% level of significance. Following treatment with ivermectin, the 15th day haematological values increased significantly at 1% level (P < 0.01) of significance. There was significant increase in the values at 1% level on the 30th day compared to day 0 and the mean values were non-significantly comparable to the healthy control group except PCV and TEC.

Retrospective Study of Ascites in Canines of North Gujarat Region

The present work was conducted to evaluate the trend of ascites in canines of the North Gujarat region, India during 2017−2020. A total of 5094 dogs were presented for diverse clinical history at Veterinary Clinical Complex Deesa and Dantiwada. Amongst the dogs evaluated with clinical approach supported by ultrasonographic investigation in ascites suspected cases, total 91 were found affected. A thorough evaluation was conducted on all the dogs for various clinical signs. In most cases, the prominent clinical signs were abdominal distension, abnormal heart sound, and lethargy. History of no deworming was noticeable feedback from dog owners. Year wise prevalence of ascites was noted as 1.12% (2017), 1.12% (2018), 1.38% (2019) and 3.25% (2020) irrespective of etiologies. An increasing trend of ascites cases was observed over the years under evaluation. Female dogs were found more prone to ascites condition. Higher prevalence was observed in dogs one to the 5-year age group. Maximum numbers were reported from non-descript breed (n=19), labrador (n=13) and German shepherd (n=10). Anechoic fluid and fibrin in the abdominal cavity were consistent findings in most cases during ultrasonographic evaluation. Ascites can be prevented by regular deworming and by diet management.

Incidence of various haemoprotozoan diseases in buffaloes

The present study was carried out at Veterinary Clinical Complex (V.C.C.), College of Veterinary Science and Animal Husbandry, Mhow. The present investigation was undertaken to study the Epidemiology of Haemoprotozoan Diseases in Buffaloes using Giemsa’s staining technique and also to correlate the meteorological parameter with the incidence of haemoprotozoan diseases. The samples were collected from the randomly selected buffaloes belonging to three districts viz Indore, Dhar and Alirajpur of Madhya Pradesh. A total of 756 samples were collected from different buffaloes in which 252 samples were collected from each selected district. The incidence of haemoprotozoan diseases was recorded in three districts as 58.32% in Indore district followed by 29.75% and 28.56% in Alirajpur and Dhar district respectively. The highest prevalence was found in adult’s age, followed by in heifers and lowest in calves in all three districts.

Molecular characterization and prevalence of bovine hemoprotozoan and rickettsial organism from Bhubaneswar, Eastern India

The blood parasites adversely affect the bovine population and are one of the major hindrances to productivity and health of livestock, globally. This study aimed to study the prevalence of some bovine hemoparasites, their molecular characterization, and associated risk factors in and around Bhubaneswar, a place in Eastern India. Microscopy (Giemsa stained thin blood smear) and polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based prevalence studies were undertaken for a total of 106bovine blood samples belonging to different breed, age, and sex presented to Veterinary Clinical Complex. DNA was extracted by conventional method and primer targeting msp5 gene (382 bp) for Anaplasma marginale, Tams1 gene (572 bp) for Theileria annulata and VSG RoTat 1.2 gene (110 bp) for Trypanosoma evansi, were used. Sequencing and phylogenetic analysis were also carried out for representative PCR products. The risk factors were correlated with prevalence by logistic regression analysis. Blood smear examination revealed a prevalence an overall of 48.11% (51/106) out of which the prevalence of T. annulata, A. marginale and T. evansi, and concurrent infection were reported to be 26.42%, 10.38%, 3.77%, and 7.55% respectively. All the samples found positive in microscopy were also found positive in PCR. PCR assay revealed an overall prevalence of 73.58% (T. annulata: 37.74%, A. marginale:17.92%, T. evansi: 5.66% and concurrent infection:12.26%). A higher prevalence was observed in the age group of 2–4 years (37.74%), females (61.32%) and cross-bred Jersey (50%). Representative PCR products were sequenced and assigned by GenBank (OL550058: A. marginale; OL604429: T. annulata and OL550059: T. evansi). There is a paucity of disease mapping of these parasites in most parts of the country. The study is probably the first report of molecular characterization of T. evansi and A. marginale from the region which gives some information of possible genetic diversity of the isolates circulating in the region. Future research should include large-scale epidemiological surveys as well as concurrent diagnosis of these hemoparasites for better treatment and control strategies.

Dystocia due to Dicephalic dipus dibrachius monster in a Murrah buffalo

A four year old Murrah buffalo at full term in second parity suffering from dystocia was presented to the Veterinary Clinical Complex and the fetal monster was delivered by caesarean section. The fetus was Dicephalic dibrachius dipus dicaudatus along with partial duplication of spine.

Immunohistochemical Evalution of Endoglin (CD 105) as Angiogenic Endothelial Marker of Squamous Cell Carcinoma in Dogs

Back ground: Angiogenesis is the process of using existent vascular bed to form new blood vessels. Neoangiogenesis is one of the hallmarks of cancer for tumour progression and metastasis. Microvessel density (MVD) is a powerful prognostic tool in oncology for assessing the tumour vasculature. Endoglin (CD 105) is a specific marker for activated endothelium. The present research intends to investigate the prognostic and metastatic potential of Endoglin (CD 105) and immunohistochemical expression in canine squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). Method: Totally, 15 SCC were collected from the Veterinary Clinical Complex, Tirunelveli during a one year period. The tumours were histopathologically identified as different grades. Immunohistochemically analysed with Endoglin (CD 105) and Peritumoural microvessel density and intratumourl microvessel density (PTMVD and ITMVD) were calculated using the “hot spot method”. Result: All the cases were positive for CD 105 and were strongly stained with both peritumoural and intratumoural blood vessels. Among the different types of SCC, Grade III had the highest values of microvessel density. The study concluded that different grades have different MVD values within SCC cases, thereby reflecting the behaviour of neoplasms directly. Endoglin (CD 105) is one of the best endothelial markers to determine MVD because it aids to assess the prognostic and metastatic potential of tumours and it plays a significant role in the estimation of overall survival period after surgery.