Veterinary Pathology Laboratory Research Articles

Dynamics of Feline Sporotrichosis in Espírito Santo, Brazil: Impact of Urbanisation.

Sporotrichosis is a chronic infectious mycosis caused by traumatic implantation of Sporothrix spp., which poses a significant challenge to public health because of its zoonotic nature. It affects humans and other animals, particularly cats. This study investigated epidemiological trends and spatial distribution of feline sporotrichosis in Espírito Santo between 2017 and 2022. This study collected diagnostic data on sporotrichosis from the Veterinary Pathology Laboratory and Center for Infectious Diseases in Espírito Santo from 2017 to 2022. Statistical analyses were performed using STATA and spatial analyses were performed using ArcGIS software to create maps and identify hotspots. Kernel density estimation and directional mean statistics were applied to visualise the disease concentration and transmission trends. The results showed a significant increase in feline sporotrichosis cases in Espírito Santo from 2017 to 2022, with hotspots identified in urban and densely populated areas. Anchieta, Aracruz and Vila Velha reported the highest numbers of cases. Spatial analysis indicated a spread towards the central and northern coastal regions. This study highlights the growing threat of feline sporotrichosis in Espírito Santo, Brazil, particularly in densely populated urban areas. This underscores the urgent need for comprehensive public health strategies that address urbanisation, human-animal interactions and managing stray cat populations. Effective control measures and enhanced surveillance are crucial to mitigate the spread of this zoonotic disease. Importantly, this study provides valuable insights into the epidemiology of sporotrichosis in Brazil and offers a framework for other regions identified as emerging hotspots that face similar challenges.

TRICHURIOSIS INFECTION AND COCCIDIOSIS IN LANDRACE PIGS

A one-month-old female Landrace pig died after being suspected of being infected with nematode worms and protozoa parasites. The purpose of this study was to establish a diagnosis of death from case pigs. The pigs were taken from a close house farm owned by Mr. Wayan Suastika in Payangan village, Gianyar, with a total population of 20 and had never been dewormed. Case pigs showed symptoms such as anorexia, experiencing blackish diarrhea mixed with a little blood, no appetite, and pale mucosa. The case pig died one day after being taken from the farm, and was necropsied on November 18, 2022 at the Veterinary Pathology Laboratory, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Udayana University. Organs that underwent changes such as the brain, trachea, lungs, heart, spleen, liver, kidneys and intestines were taken to the Veterinary Pathology Laboratory for histopathological examination. Examination of feces using the flotation method and the Mcmaster method, as well as making permanent preparations to identify worms were carried out at the Veterinary Parasitology Laboratory. The results of post-mortem examination found typical anatomic pathology in the form of haemorrhagic colon, necrosis and catarrhal or mucohemorrhagic enteritis with mucus, fresh blood and/or necrotic debris in the lumen, along with infection with nematode worms in the colon with a total of 235 individuals. From the results of stool examination, Trichuris suis worm eggs and Eimeria spp. oocysts were found. Based on the results of pathological and parasitological examinations, it can be concluded that cases of death in pigs are caused by Trichuriosis and Coccidiosis. As a suggestion, pigs should be kept in cages with floors made of concrete or cement. If an earthen yard is used, excreta disposal should be regular and the manure disposal site should be made of closed concrete wells so as not to attract beetles.

Aneurisma biventricular em um cão

ABSTRACT: An aneurysm is defined as a localized dilation of a blood vessel or heart. It may have either a congenital or an acquired origin and occurs in both humans and animals. Cardiac aneurysms are rare, and are characterized by sacculations of the cardiac wall. The present case report describes the macroscopic and microscopic findings of an aneurysm affecting both ventricles of the heart in a dog. A 7-year-old mixed-breed female dog with osteosarcoma on the left pelvic limb was euthanized and submitted to the veterinary pathology laboratory for necropsy. Macroscopically, besides the lesions in the link, the pericardial sac was adhered to the pericardial surface of the heart and there were two sacculations in both ventricles which communicated widely with the respective ventricle. Microscopically, fibrous tissue adhered to the pericardium, atrophy and necrosis of the cardiomyocytes with replacement by adipocytes were observed in addition to hyperplasia of the tunica media of arterioles and thrombosis. A diagnosis of acquired biventricular cardiac aneurysm was made based on the necropsy findings and microscopic lesions in the heart. We emphasize the importance of performing a necropsy and examining tissues histologically for the diagnosis of this rare condition. Ventricular aneurysms should be included in the differential diagnosis of cardiovascular disease in dogs.

Sarcocystis in horses from Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil: Molecular identification of Sarcocystis bertrami and Sarcocystis neurona in muscle tissues

Horses are intermediate hosts of Sarcocystis spp. capable of forming cysts in their musculature. This study aimed to detect sarcocysts and investigate the presence of nucleic acids from Sarcocystis spp. in samples of striated muscles from horses in the State of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, necropsied at the Veterinary Pathology Laboratory of the Federal University of Santa Maria. A total of 108 samples were collected from 24 horses and examined through direct examination. Microscopic tissue cysts were observed in three samples: tongue (2) and esophagus (1) from two animals. Extractions were performed on the found cysts and tissues, even though sarcocystosis detection was not present. DNA samples were subjected to Nested-PCR using Tg18s primers, and the amplified products were subjected to Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism (RFLP) using DdeI and HpaII enzymes. DNA belonging to Sarcocystis spp. was amplified in tissues from 91.7% (22/24) of the equines, and 67.6% (73/108) of the samples tested positive in the Nested-PCR reaction. The tissues with the highest detection frequency were: diaphragm 92.3% (12/13), gluteal muscle 77.2% (17/22), and esophagus 66.7% (4/6). In RFLP, Sarcocystis spp. was detected in 21 tissues from 11/22 equines, and cysts, identified through nucleotide sequencing, were determined to be S. bertrami. S. neurona was identified in 11 samples from 7/22 animals, with co-infection detected in 5/22 cases. The high detection rate indicates a concerning circulation of the protozoan, particularly the zoonotic S. bertrami found in all tissues, which are commonly exported for human consumption.

COCCIDIOSIS IN BROILER CHICKEN CAUSED BY EIMERIA TENELLA

Coccidiosis is one of the most important diseases that attack the poultry industry. This disease is an intestinal disease caused by protozoan parasites from the genus Eimeria. The aim of this case report was to establish a diagnosis of mortality in a broiler chicken aged 21 days. The broiler chicken was obtained from a poultry in Kubu, Bangli Regency, Bali with a population of 12.000 broiler chickens. The number of sick chickens was 145 and 37 diede with the same symptomps within seven days. Based on these data, epidemiological data were obtainded which consisted of 1,20% morbidity; 0,30% mortality; and 25,51% case fatality rate (CFR). The broiler chicken was obtained from a poultry in Kubu, Bangli Regency, Bali with a population of 12.000 broiler chickens. The number of sick chickens was 145 and 37 diede with the same symptomps within seven days. Based on these data, epidemiological data were obtainded which consisted of 1,20% morbidity; 0,30% mortality; and 25,51% case fatality rate (CFR). The chicken was taken to the Veterinary Pathology Laboratory for necropsy. Pathological changes are seen in the hemorrhagic intestine and the hemorrhagic cecum dan mucosal erosin. Furthermore, changes in the histopathology of the cecum include hemorrhage, necrosis, and inflammatory cell infiltration. In addition, the schizont stage was also found. The finding of schizont generation in the cecum indicates coccidiosis infection in chickens. Then, qualitative and quantitative stool examination was carried out. Qualitative examination was carried out using native, sedimentation and buoyancy methods. Quantitative examination with the Mc.Master method to determine the intensity of infection. The results of the qualitative examination found oocysts and oocysts that had sporulated. While quantitatively obtained the number of oocysts as much as 18750/gram. Based on clinical symptoms, blood smear examination, changes in anatomical pathology, histopathology, and stool examination, it can be concluded that case chickens have coccidiosis caused by Eimeria tenella. It is necessary to conduct further studies regarding the assistance of Eimeria spp. in broiler chickens.

COLISEPTICEMIA INFECTION IN A 20 DAYS OLD BROILER CHICKEN IN TIMUHUN VILLAGE, KLUNGKUNG

Colisepticemia is one of poultry infectious disease caused by Avian pathogenic Escherichia coli. The aim of this study was identifying the causative of an infected broiler chickens aged 20 days. The research was conducted at a close house farm in Timuhun Village, Banjarangkan, Klungkung Regency, Bali with a population of 16,000 broiler chickens. The number of sick chickens was 163 and 55 died. The chicken samples were brought to the Veterinary Pathology Laboratory, Udayana Faculty of Veterinary Medicine for necropsy. Organ samples that underwent changes were taken to the Veterinary Bacteriology and Parasitology Laboratory. In bacteriological examination, organ samples were isolated using nutrient agar and eosyne methylene blue agar (EMBA) media. Furthermore, the results of bacterial isolation were identified using triple sugar iron agar (TSIA) media, Simmon Citrate Agar (SCA), Sulfid Indole Motility (SIM), Methyl Red-Voges Proskauer (MR-VP) and testing sugars (glucose and lactose). In the parasitology laboratory, fecal samples were examined using native, sedimentation and flotation methods. The results of the epidemiological examination of the disease, 1% morbidity, 0.3% mortality and 33.7% case fatality rate (CFR). Post-mortem examination found typical anatomical pathology in the form of polyserotysis and fibrin accumulation in the pericardium, perihepatic, pleural and mesentery. The results of the fecal examination did not find any agents and/or worm eggs. Bacterial isolation on EMBA media grew metallic green round colonies with black dots. Gram stain shows short rods and is colored red. Based on the results of pathology, parasitology and bacteriology examinations, the etiology of this cases caused by Avian Pathogenic Escherichia coli (APEC). Elevating sanitation was needed to reduce the cases.

Study of Laboratory Diagnosis of Colibasilosis Infection In Local Hen In Surabaya

Background: On November 18, 2022, euthanasia and hen necropsy were conducted (protocol number A-164) in the veterinary pathology laboratory, Faculty Of Veterinary Medicine, Wijaya Kusuma University Surabaya. The hen belongs to a local farmer located at Sawahan, Surabaya. Based on the anamnesis, it is known that the hen was four months old and weighed 1.4 kg. The population consists of eight birds, and one of them was sick, never treated or vaccinated, in a cage made of bamboo, corn fodder, rice bran, and drinking water from tap water. Clinical symptoms show a decreased appetite for the last day, watery eyes, runny nose, lethargy, and diarrhea with feces green mixed with white colors. The initial diagnosis of the chicken was infected with Salmonella sp. with a differential diagnosis of Escherichia coli. Purpose: To diagnose bacterial disease in local chickens with a pathological examination, parasitological examination, microbiological isolation, and clinical pathology for hematology. Result: The results of the anatomic pathology examination showed that the chickens had hemorrhagic tracheitis, hemorrhagic necrotic pneumonia, hemorrhagic necrotic enteritis, hemorrhagic necrotic hepatitis, and hemorrhage in the proventriculus. Parasite identification was found in Raillietina sp. and Ornithonyssus sylviarum. Isolation of bacteria was found in Escherichia coli from the duodenum organ. The chickens had hypoproteinemia, poikilocytosis teardrop and rouleaux, leukocytosis with heterophilia, and monocytosis. Conclusion: Based on the examination associated with the results of anamnesis and examination of clinical symptoms, the chickens were diagnosed with Escherichia coli infection together with Raillietina sp. and Ornithonyssus sylviarum infestations.

A retrospective histopathological survey on canine lymphomas subtypes of Porto District.

Lymphomas are dogs' most common hematopoietic neoplasms and represent a heterogeneous group, as occurs in humans. Considering the role of dogs as models of human lymphomas and the geographical correlation of the cases of canine and human lymphoma, it is important to continuously assess the epidemiological distribution of lymphoma subtypes in dogs. This study aimed to provide a survey of canine lymphoma subtypes diagnosed from 2005 to 2016 in the academic veterinary pathology laboratory of the University of Porto. A total of 75 canine lymphomas diagnosed by histopathology in the Porto district were included. All cases were immunophenotyped by CD3 and PAX5, classified according to the current classification WHO and coded with Vet-ICD-O-canine-1. Mixed breed dogs were most common (28%), followed by Cocker Spaniels (12%), Boxers (9%), and Labrador Retrievers (6%). The mean age was 9.2 years (SD = 3.3) (10.7 years for small, 8.9 years for medium and large, and 5.7 years for giant breed dogs, p < 0.05). Regarding sex, there was no difference in frequencies or mean age. B-cell lymphomas were more common (57.4%) than T-cell lymphomas (37.3%), and 5.3% were classified as non-B/non-T-cell lymphomas. Of the cases, 49% had a multicentric distribution, followed by splenic (22%), cutaneous (12%), alimentary (12%), and extranodal (3%) forms. The most common B-cell subtypes were diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) (16.3%) and large immunoblastic lymphoma (14%), while T-zone lymphoma (21.4%) and intestinal lymphoma (18%) were the most common T-cell lymphoma subtypes. Our study shows that the Porto district follows the international trend of higher prevalence of B-cell lymphomas in dogs, especially of the DLBCL subtype.

Equine Podotrochlear Apparatus - Histologic Characterization

Background: The navicular syndrome may be associated with alterations in other podotrochlear apparatus components, such as the deep digital flexor tendon, collareral sesamoid and distal sesamoid ligaments, podotrochlear bursa and distal sesamoid bone. However, the clinical significance and nature of these changes are not well understood, many of descriptive reports about distal sesamoid bone lesions are rarely accompanied by a complete and comprehensive comparison with animals of the control group. The aim of this study was to described histologically findings of the podrotrochlear apparatus components, allowing the understanding of the inserts and their microscopic appearance, thus providing the future recognize of their alterations.Materials, Methods &amp; Results: Fourteen samples of the podotrochlear apparatus were taken out of 44 equine thoracic limbs specimens, separated at the radiocarpal joint of Crioulo and Thoroughbred horses, with an average age of 6.0-year-old, coming from a private clinic in southern Brazil. The thoracic limbs specimens were refrigerated at 4ºC at the clinic and then they were sent to the University Federal of Santa Maria (UFSM). Once at the University laboratory, the specimens were dissected to isolate the podotrochlear apparatus from each one. Subsequently, transversal and longitudinal samples from the distal sesamoid bone, deep digital flexor tendo, distal sesamoid ligament, colateral sesamoid ligament, were collected and podotrochlear bursa which were processed at the Veterinary Pathology Laboratory of the UFSM and University Federal of Santa Catarina (UFSC). The tissues samples were fixed in a 10% formaldehyde solution for 14 days and routinely processed for histology. The samples were sectioned at 3 µm and stained using the hematoxylin-eosin (H-E) routine method. The bone samples, after fixation, underwent a decalcified process in a formic acid-sodium citrate aqueous solution and routinely processed for histopathology. Histologic tendons evaluation showed that it is arranged in honeycombs fascicles in a transverse section observation. The tendinous fibers have a more compact and aligned collagen fibers arrangement due to the dense connective tissue. The synovial membrane of the podotrochlear bursa is composed of a cubic pseudo conjunctival epithelium arranged with a layer of synoviocytes forming villi towards the lumen. This characterization is very similar to that of the synovial joint membrane. The collateral sesamoid ligament fibers are not perfectly aligned, occurring at their confluence in some areas accompanied by the dissection of adipose tissue. The distal sesamoide ligament fibers, composed by of loose connective tissue associated with synoviocytes and vascular stroma. The articular surface of the distal sesamoid bone is arranged in 3 layers of chondrocytes embedded in a hyaline matrix. There was a clear differentiation between the subchondral bone area and the fibrocartilage tissue in the palmar aspect of the distal sesamoid bone.Discussion: The morphophysiological characterization of the podotrochlear structures inside the hoof capsule it is important for the future recognition of abnormalities and the possible hypothesis that originates the podotrochlear syndrome. These changes have great clinical relevance and very often associated of distal limb lameness in horses. The normal macroscopic, ultrasonographic and radiographic images along with the histomorphometric study of the podotrochlear structures have contributed for the morphophysiological comprehension and consequently future interpretation of the podotrochlear structures diseases.Keywords: podotrochlear apparatus, distal sesamoide bone, deep digital flexor tendon, navicular syndrome, histological findings.

Diseases of the digestive system of agoutis (Dasyprocta leporina) raised in captivity in the Brazilian semiarid region

ABSTRACT: The objective of this study was to describe the clinical and pathological aspects of diseases of the digestive system in agoutis (Dasyprocta leporina Linnaeus, 1758) diagnosed by the “Laboratório de Patologia Veterinária” (Veterinary Pathology Laboratory) of the “Universidade Federal Rural do Semi-Árido” (UFERSA), from January 2018 to February 2020. During the study period, necropsy and a survey of the clinical history of 27 agoutis were performed, 25.93% (7/27) of which were diagnosed with digestive system diseases. The percentages of digestive tract diseases among the diagnosed were: acute carbohydrate overload (11.12%), gastric ulcer (7.41%), gastric volvulus (3.70%), and intestinal volvulus (3.70%). Studies on the occurrence rate of these diseases, as well as the description of their clinical and anatomopathological aspects, may serve as a basis for guiding the appropriate management in the breeding of these animals.

Results of urinary bacterial cultures and antibiotic susceptibility testing of dogs and cats in the UK.

ObjectivesBacterial urinary tract infections are a common diagnosis in small animal practice and antibiotics are often administered empirically. The aim of this study was to investigate the aetiology and antibiotic resistance of uropathogens in dogs and cats in the UK.Materials and MethodsRetrospective study of uroculture and antibiotic susceptibility testing results (n=808) by disk diffusion processed at a veterinary pathology laboratory between 2011 and 2012.ResultsSignificant bacteriuria was detected in 18.4% of samples from dogs and 10.0% from cats, most of which (>90%) yielded a single organism. Escherichia coli was the most prevalent bacterial species (54.7% and 55.6% of feline and canine isolates, respectively) followed by Proteus mirabilis in dog samples (22.7%) and Enterococcus spp. in cat samples (23.2%). Approximately a third of E. coli isolates were resistant to ampicillin but resistance was much lower among Enterococcus spp. and P. mirabilis. Resistance to amoxicillin‐clavulanic acid also seemed to be emerging, particularly in E. coli (almost 20% resistant). In contrast, resistance to trimethoprim‐sulfamethoxazole for uropathogens remained <13% except for P. mirabilis (19.4%). Overall, fluoroquinolones showed the best in vitro activity (resistance mostly below 10% for enrofloxacin and marbofloxacin).Clinical SignificanceOur results provide evidence of the emergence of resistance to antibiotics commonly used to treat bacterial urinary tract infections. Continued monitoring of the patterns of antibiotic resistance in uropathogens is needed to assess the adequacy of recommendations on the empiric therapy of these infections.

Age- and sex-associated differences in hematology and biochemistry parameters of Dunkin Hartley guinea pigs (Cavia porcellus).

The Dunkin Hartley is the most common guinea pig strain used in biomedical research, particularly for studies of asthma, allergy, infectious disease, reproduction, and osteoarthritis. Minimally invasive blood tests, such as complete blood counts and serum biochemistry profiles, are often collected for diagnostics and laboratory analyses. However, reference intervals for these assays have not yet been well-documented in this strain. The purpose of this study was to establish reference intervals for hematologic and biochemical parameters of Dunkin Hartley guinea pigs and determine age- and sex-related differences. Hematologic and biochemical parameters were retrospectively obtained from 145 male and 68 female guinea pigs between 2 and 15 months of age. All blood parameters were analyzed by a veterinary clinical pathology laboratory. Reference intervals were established according to the American Society for Veterinary Clinical Pathology guidelines. Age- and sex-related differences were determined using unpaired t-tests or nonparametric Mann-Whitney tests. Hematocrit, red blood cell distribution width, mean platelet volume, white blood cell count, heterophils, monocytes, eosinophils, glucose, blood urea nitrogen, creatinine, calcium, magnesium, total protein, albumin, globulin, cholesterol, aspartate aminotransferase, gamma glutamyl transferase, and bicarbonate increased with age. Mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration, cellular hemoglobin concentration mean, platelets, lymphocytes, phosphorus, albumin/globulin ratio, alkaline phosphatase, anion gap, and calculated osmolality decreased with age. Males had higher hemoglobin, hematocrit, red blood cell count, mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration, white blood cell count, heterophils, Foa-Kurloff cells, alanine aminotransferase, and bicarbonate and lower mean corpuscular volume, red blood cell distribution width, platelets, mean platelet volume, eosinophils, total protein, albumin, globulin, cholesterol, potassium, anion gap, calculated osmolality, and iron compared to females. Establishing age and sex differences in hematologic and biochemical parameters of Dunkin Hartley guinea pigs provides valuable insight into their physiology to better evaluate diagnostics and experimental results.

Causes of spontaneous death and euthanasia in dogs: A background study in Bahia, Brazil

Understanding the causes of death in dogs enhances the diagnostic capabilities of veterinarians, as well as reduces animal mortality. Studies on this topic assist in the control and prophylaxis of epidemics and in structuring public health programmes. In total, 1 355 necropsy reports of dogs filed at the Veterinary Pathology Laboratory of the Federal University of Bahia, Northeast, Brazil (2005–2017) were analysed. The epidemiological information and anatomopathological diagnoses were obtained. The diagnosed diseases were classified into 10 categories. The frequency of the zoonoses, the overall age of the death (AD) of the dogs, and the AD of the dogs for each disease category were determined. Infectious and parasitic diseases were the most frequent primary causes of death in puppies (44.62%) and adult dogs (26.52%). In elderly dogs, most deaths occurred due to neoplasms (42.37%). Distemper (10.46%) was the most prevalent condition. A high frequency of zoonoses (6.12%) and a high death rate caused by diseases that could have been prevented (15.06%), such as distemper, parvovirus and canine visceral leishmaniasis, were reported. The AD in the population studied was eight years. The results confirmed the hypothesis of a high death rate in dogs in the state of Bahia, Northeast, Brazil, because of preventable infectious diseases.

Main biosafety measures for veterinary clinical pathology laboratories and the importance of their knowledge

Biosafety is a set of measures that aim to prevent, minimize, or eliminate risks intrinsic to professional practice, thus ensuring the preservation of the environment, the health of man and animals. Veterinarians, as well as other health professionals, must know and apply these measures, protecting themselves from the risks inherent to their profession and, consequently, protecting the population. In the veterinary clinical pathology lab, numerous activities with a potential capacity to generate accidents are observed, from occupational risks knowing as occupational diseases to exposure to chemical and biological agents, putting the health of these professionals and the environment integrity daily at risk. Therefore, suitable biosafety measures must be taken to minimize these risks. Thus, this work aims to make a bibliographic review on the main biosafety measures applicable to the area, alerting veterinarians about the importance of its application in their work environment.

Plant Poisoning Containing Hydrocyanic Acid in Cattle in Southern Brazil

Background: Cyanogenic plants accumulate cyanogenic glycosides and release hydrocyanic acid (HCN). In Brazil, there have been reports of several plants that cause HCN poisoning in animals and lead to a fast death with few clinical signs and lesions on post-mortem examination. Some cultivars of Cynodon spp. grasses cause HCN poisoning in cattle in Brazil. The objectives of this work were to report the occurrence of deaths by HCN poisoning in cattle as diagnosed by the veterinary pathology laboratory, describe the quantity of HCN in some cultivars of Cynodon spp., as well as, to describe one cultivar of genus Cynodonnever reported as poisonous.Materials, Methods &amp; Results: The archives of the Veterinary Pathology Laboratory (LPV) at the Concórdia Campus of the Instituto Federal Catarinense (IFC) were reviewed, seeking cases with a diagnosis of hydrocyanic acid poisoning in cattle after post mortem examination. The amount of HCN present in some cultivars of the Cynodon genus was quantified due to the high frequency of poisoning cases. From the 1,235 post mortem examinations of cattle 28 (2.27%) were diagnosed with spontaneous hydrocyanic acid poisoning, 17 cases (60.7%) due to ingestion of Prunus sp. or Manihot sp., and 11 cases (39.3%) of Cynodon dactylon ingestion. Most animals were found dead, normally having presented no clinical signs. Macroscopic evaluation mainly showed a severe amount of unchewed and undigested leaves or grass mixed in the ruminal content presenting a bitter almond odor. It was possible to infer that, among cultivars of the Cynodon genus, Florakirk showed the highest levels of HCN compared (P &lt; 0.05) with Star of Puerto Rico, Tifton 68, Tifton 44, and Coast-Cross. Furthermore, Tifton 85 and Jiggs showed undetected levels of HCN. Leaves showed the highest HCN levels when comparing different parts of the plant. Regarding conservation methods, hay showed undetectable levels of HCN.Discussion: To the best of our knowledge, this work is the first description of HCN poisoning in cattle due to ingestion of Cynodon dactylon cultivar Florakirk. This condition is described with a fast-clinical course, with animals found dead with no premonitory clinical signs. Poisoned animals did not develop macroscopic or microscopic specific lesions. Poisoning can be suspected when animals die suddenly, with absence of lesions under necropsy, and large amounts of unchewed and undigested leaves or grass inside their forestomaches. The diagnosis can be established performing the Picrosodic paper test, either in the pasture, or in the ruminal content. Occasionally however, HCN can go undetected when this chemical compound volatilizes between death and necropsy after several hours. Of all the Cynodon cultivars evaluated, Florakirk was the most dangerous for animals. In contrast, Tifton 85 and Jiggs released no HCN. Leaves were the part of the plant presenting the highest concentration of HCN. This is a defense mechanism that the plant develops against the ingestion by animals. This condition can cause great economic losses to farmers with the loss of animals and the need for prevention by using cultivars without HCN or hay, as 2.27% (28) of deaths diagnosed by the Veterinary Pathology Laboratory in the west of Santa Catarina, Brazil, were due to HCN poisoning. Notably, Florakirk cultivar was identified as the most dangerous cultivar tested, with higher levels compared with Tifton 68. The Star of Puerto Rico cultivar showed similar levels of HCN as Tifton 68. Both cultivars are commonly cultivated in many farms in the south of Brazil.

Dehydration and Hemodynamic Changes as Causa Mortis Associated with Trichuris vulpis in a Dog

Background: Trichuris vulpis, a species that belongs to Trichuris and shows a cosmopolitan distribution, parasitizes the gastrointestinal system of dogs causing trichuriasis. The infection occurs owing to ingestion of larval eggs and subsequent fixation of their adult form in the large intestine of the host. The objective of this paper is to report the case of a Border Collie dog that arrived at the Veterinary Pathology Laboratory (LPV) of the Federal University of Jataí (UFJ) after exhibiting signs of intense dehydration and sudden death caused by severe T. vulpis infection, and to elucidate the macroscopic and microscopic histopathological correlations observed during necropsy.Case: A 7-year-old male Border Collie dog was referred for routine necroscopic examination on suspicion of death from intoxication. In the history, there were reports of bone ingestion, restlessness, and polydipsia for three days, followed by sudden death. Although the animal presented an adequate body state during the necroscopic procedure, enophthalmia and pale oral and ocular mucosa were observed, which are characteristic signs of severe dehydration and anemia. On opening the abdominal cavity, the visceral serosa were found to be stained and severely dry. Greenish mucous content was observed throughout the intestine, and in the large intestine, a moderate amount of mucus associated with high parasitic infestation by elongated parasites attached to the mucosa was identified. The parasites were harvested, stored in airtight vials containing 70% alcohol, processed, and subsequently identified as T. vulpis.Discussion: The necroscopic findings associated with the histopathology were compatible with T. vulpis infestation at high parasite intensity, with severe destruction of the intestinal mucosa and inability of water absorption, resulting in severe dehydration. In cases of parasitism, villous atrophy with crypt hypertrophy occurs, a fact observed in the present case. Possibly crypt hypertrophy occurs prior to villous atrophy, and occurs independently of previous lesions of the absorptive compartment. This results in poor absorption. Advanced loss of gastrointestinal tract fluids can usually be extensive and lead to progressive dehydration with loss of isotonic and hypertonic fluids, which can also be observed in the observation of blood components, severely accelerating changes such as hypovolemia and posterior hemoconcentration. Hypovolemia from severe dehydration also decreases renal perfusion and reduces the rate of glomerular filtration. Hypovolemia also leads to decreased blood pumping capacity, which may lead to heart failure and pulmonary circulatory disorders with notable effects on gas exchange, which may cause hypoxemia and possibly lethal metabolic acidosis. The necropsy performed on the animal found a severe dehydration that could be sustained mainly owing to signs of hypovolemia, associated with a series of pathophysiological events with the massive presence of parasites identified as T. vulpis. The damage caused to the intestinal mucosa by the oral stylet, the movement, and toxins of the parasites led to a severe condition of villosities destruction and tissue necrosis, leading to a large loss of the absorption function of nutrients in the intestines and especially of water, resulting in a condition of severe dehydration. This imbalance of system functioning also alters cardiac function because of increased blood viscosity generating possible lardaceous clots, which in turn are indicative of anemia. This cycle of deleterious changes can result in hypovolemic shock and consequent sudden death.

Parasitic Lesions in Fish in the Federal District, Brazil

Background: Brazil has a vast territory and favorable climatic conditions that allow the cultivation of freshwater fish. The intensification of the productive system can cause an imbalance in the aquatic environment as a result of poor water quality, nutritional deficiencies and infectious or parasitic diseases. The laboratory diagnosis and the determination of the prevalence of the main lesions, which occur in a certain region, help to guide towards the etiological diagnosis. This study aimed to describe the main parasitic lesions in fish in the routine at the Veterinary Pathology Laboratory of the Universidade de Brasília. Material, Methods &amp; Results: All records of fish with parasitic lesions were recovered. Those cases in which there was an intralesional parasite and which presented lesions compatible with the parasite were included. The screening of ectoparasites was done by scraping the superficial mucus from the gills and skin. Organ sections were routinely processed for histopathologyand stained with hematoxylin-eosin (HE). In some records, parasitological identification was carried. The information was divided into the species of the affected fish, epidemiology of the outbreak (water quality, temperature, type of breeding), lesion distribution, etiology and macroscopic and microscopic changes. The resulting data was organized in absolute frequency and percentage. In this study, 22 cases were counted, between individual deaths and outbreaks, totaling 83 necropsied teleost fish.Inflammatory changes of parasitic origin were seen in 13/22 (59%) of the cases had lesions of parasitic origin. Skin lesions and gills were the most relevant. Macroscopically, red areas or spots of hyperemia or hemorrhage on the body surface were the most prevalent findings. Under microscopy, proliferative gill inflammation was the most relevant diagnosis. Pscinoodinium pilullare (Dinoflagellida), Ichthyophthirius multifiliis (Ciliophora), and monogenetic worms (Monogenea) were the main parasites found. Trichodina sp. (Ciliophora), Ichtyobodo sp. (Kinetoplastida), Amoebas, and Chilodonella sp. (Ciliophora), were seen in fewer numbers. An unusual case suggestive of parasitism by Eustrongylides sp. (Nematoda), in a pirá-brasília (Simpsonichthys boitonei), specimen has been recorded.Discussion: The diagnoses were based on epidemiology, anatomopathological and parasitological findings. The most frequent and significantly lethal lesion in the study was proliferative and / or hyperplastic branchitis. Proliferative branchitis with lamellar epithelial hyperplasia (LEH) is a response to some type of chemical or mechanical injury to the gill epithelium in order to protect the capillaries from further damage or microbial penetration. However, it also increases the diffusion distance between capillaries and the environment and, therefore, hinders breathing, excretory and osmoregulatory functions. Protozoan infections and monogenetic worms in general generated LEH and skin lesions of mechanical origin. Secondary bacterial infection, were observed in this parasitosis determining the cause of death of the fish. Its pathogenicity comes from the lesions caused by the colonization and histophagy of the epithelial surfaces, mainly gills and skin, causing epithelial proliferation, lamellar cell fusion, epithelial cell degeneration and necrosis forming several ulcers in the epithelium after the release of mature trophies. The pathogenesis of parasitism by Eustrongylides spp. is considerable when there is a large quantity of these larvae that can cause intestinal obstruction, rupture and compression of viscera, of greater importance in small fish. The main parasites of necropsied fish were protozoa and monogenetic worms, which mainly cause branquitis and dermatitis in varying grades.

Neoplasms in domestic hamsters in Southern Brazil: epidemiological and pathological aspects of 40 cases1

ABSTRACT: Although neoplasms are commonly reported in domestic hamsters, retrospective studies approaching spontaneous tumors with data regarding epidemiological findings are scarce. The present study aimed to describe the epidemiological and pathological findings of 40 cases of tumors in domestic hamsters diagnosed in a veterinary pathology laboratory in Southern Brazil from 2002 to 2019. Chinese hamster (Cricetulus griseus) was the most commonly affected species (16/40), followed by Djungarian hamster (Phodopus sungorus, 11/40) and Syrian hamster (Mesocricetus auratus, 4/40). Among the cases, 57.5% were females (23/40), while 42.5% were males (17/40). The affected hamsters’ median age was of 14-months old, with an age range of 8- to 36-months old. Twenty-four cases were assessed as anatomopathological samples (biopsies), while 16 were composed of carcasses submitted to postmortem examination, and, therefore, the neoplasm was related to the cause of death. The integumentary system was frequently affected (60%, 24/40), followed by the female reproductive tract (22.5%, 9/40), hematopoietic system (10%, 4/40), digestive tract (5%, 2/40), and endocrine system (2.5%, 1/40). The most frequent neoplasm was squamous cell carcinoma (35%, 14/40), mostly on the lip/nasal region (50%, 7/14). Other tumors included fibrosarcoma (10%, 4/40), lymphoma (10%, 4/40), mammary cystadenoma (10%, 4/40), apocrine sweat gland adenoma (7.5%, 3/40), hemangiosarcoma (5%, 2/40), leiomyosarcoma (5%, 2/40), and granulosa ovarian cell tumor (5%, 2/40). The five remaining cases occurred individually and were composed of hepatoid gland adenoma, solid thyroid carcinoma, cutaneous melanoma, ovarian teratoma, and cutaneous trichoblastoma. Neoplasms were identified as an important cause of death and major reason to perform biopsy in domestic hamsters in Southern Brazil.

Isolates, Antimicrobial Susceptibility Profiles and Multidrug Resistance of Bacteria Cultured from Pig Submissions in New Zealand.

Simple SummaryData on the bacterial pathogens and the frequency of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in New Zealand’s pork industry are limited. This study describes bacterial isolates, antimicrobial susceptibility data, and multidrug resistance (MDR; resistance to ≥3 antimicrobial classes) from New Zealand pig submissions. Porcine bacterial culture test results from June 2003 to February 2016 were obtained from commercial veterinary pathology laboratory records. In total, 470/477 unique submissions resulted in bacterial growth, yielding 779 isolates. Sample type was recorded for 75.5%; lung (21.9%), faecal (16.9%) and intestinal (12.5%) were most common. The most common isolates were Escherichia coli (23.9%), Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae (5.5%), Streptococcus suis (5.5%), unidentified Campylobacter spp. (4.9%), alpha hemolytic Streptococci (4.1%), coagulase negative Staphylococcus spp. (3.3%), and Pasteurella multocida (3.2%). Susceptibility results were available for 141/779 (18.1%) isolates from 62/470 (13.2%) submissions. Most were susceptible to trimethoprim-sulphonamide (92.6%), but fewer were susceptible to penicillin (48.1%), tilmicosin (41.9%), or tetracyclines (36.0%). No susceptibility data were for available Salmonella spp., Campylobacter spp., or Yersinia spp. isolates. MDR occurred in 42.6% of tested isolates. Data on sample submission drivers, antimicrobial drug use, and susceptibilities of important porcine bacterial isolates are required to inform guidelines for prudent antimicrobial use, to reduce their prevalence and MDR.Data on the scope of bacterial pathogens present and the frequency of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in New Zealand’s pigs are limited. This study describes bacterial isolates, antimicrobial susceptibility data, and multidrug resistance (MDR; resistance to ≥3 antimicrobial classes) from New Zealand pig submissions. Porcine test data from June 2003 to February 2016 were obtained from commercial veterinary pathology laboratory records. In total, 470/477 unique submissions resulted in bacterial growth, yielding 779 isolates. Sample type was recorded for 360/477 (75.5%); lung (79/360; 21.9%), faecal (61/360; 16.9%) and intestinal (45/360; 12.5%) were most common. The most common isolates were Escherichia coli (186/779, 23.9%), Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae (43/779; 5.5%), Streptococcus suis (43/779; 5.5%), unidentified Campylobacter spp. (38/779; 4.9%), alpha haemolytic Streptococci (32/779; 4.1%), coagulase negative Staphylococcus spp. (26/779; 3.3%), and Pasteurella multocida (25/779; 3.2%). Susceptibility results were available for 141/779 (18.1%) isolates from 62/470 (13.2%) submissions. Most were susceptible to trimethoprim-sulphonamide (75/81; 92.6%), but fewer were susceptible to penicillin (37/77; 48.1%), tilmicosin (18/43; 41.9%), or tetracyclines (41/114; 36.0%). No susceptibility data were available for Salmonella spp., Campylobacter spp., or Yersinia spp. isolates. MDR was present in 60/141 (42.6%) isolates. More data on sample submission drivers, antimicrobial drug use, and susceptibilities of important porcine bacterial isolates are required to inform guidelines for prudent antimicrobial use, to reduce their prevalence, human transmission, and to minimise AMR and MDR.

Canine cutaneous neoplasms in the metropolitan region of Goiânia, Goiás state, Brazil

ABSTRACT: The present study aimed to describe the occurrence and epidemiological features of skin neoplasms diagnosed in dogs in the metropolitan region of Goiânia, Goiás state, Brazil. Diagnoses from dog biopsies from 2011 to 2016 provided by a private veterinary pathology laboratory were analyzed. The main diagnoses were mast cell tumor, hemangiosarcoma, squamous cell carcinoma, malignant melanoma, and hemangioma. Highest frequency of neoplasms was found in female dogs, dogs aged &gt;8 years, and purebred dogs, particularly the American Pit Bull Terriers and the Poodles. Most common sites affected by the neoplasms were the limb and the head. Using multiple correspondence analysis, groups of neoplasms were found to be associated with different epidemiological features and the size of the neoplasms was associated with the biological behavior. The results of this study described predispositions and verified the importance of different types of skin neoplasms in dogs in the region being studied.