Canine idiopathic bowel disease remains a disease which is often misdiagnosed. Various therapeutic options exist. Is there one which is superior to the others? A very interesting retrospective study with 80 patients.
ACTH Stimulation test measuring 17-hydroxyprogesterone in dogs with hyperadrenocorticism
A very interesting idea: If the diagnostic `standard` tests in a dog with suspected hyperadrenocorticism have equivocal results, can an ACTH stimulation test measuring 17-hydroxyprogesterone help to get to definitive diagnosis? It can, as this interesting study in more than 100 dogs shows...
Acute peritonitis caused by traumatic breeding in the bitch
A peritonitis due to semiperitoneum is a very rare emergency. But it is life-threatening and owners and breeders must be aware that a rupture of the uterus can not only occur during pregnancy and birth but also after traumatic breeding. A careful examination of the bitch not willing to copulate is always indicated if the time of copulation is optimal.
Which feline urolith is the most common type?
Struvite uroliths is the spontaneous answer to this question if practitioners are asked. But in this study including nearly 5500 uroliths another answer is given: oxalate uroliths are slightly more common than struvites!
Lactate levels as prognostic indicator in dogs with IMHA
Idiopathic immune-mediated hemolytic anemia (IMHA) is a quite common problem in dogs which requires intensive and expensive therapy but is associated with a high mortality rate. Often owners want to have an idea about the prognosis of their animal. Is there an association of blood lactate with outcome and response to transfusion therapy in dogs with IMHA?
Pathogenetic role of bovine papillomaviruses in equine sarcoids
Sarcoids are nonmetastasising, yet locally aggressive skin tumours that constitute the most frequent neoplasm in equids. Infection by bovine papillomaviruses types 1 and 2 (BPV-1, BPV-2) has been recognised as major causative factor in sarcoid pathogenesis, but a possible correlation of intralesional virus load with disease severity has not been established thus far. A fascinating brandnew study from Switzerland!
Accuracy of an ELISA feces test for equine Clostridium difficile infection
Clostridium difficile infection (CDI) is a recognized cause of colitis in the horse. Identification of its toxins is important for management of individual cases and for prevention of transmission and zoonosis. In humans, CDI diagnosis is performed with enzyme immunoassays, none of which have been validated for horses. Are they also useful in this species? A very practice-oriented question!
Relationship between race performance and superficial digital flexor tendonitis in thoroughbreds
There is limited information regarding the number of races and the period for evaluation of outcome which is critical for assessment of SDF tendonitis treatments. Thus, the re-injury rate and racing performance of Thoroughbred racehorses that sustain SDF tendonitis in relation to matched controls in terms of number of races post treatment and maximum racing performance ratings before and after injury was evaluated on more than 400 racehorses.
MRI versus histology in alterations of the equine distal sesamoidean impar ligament
Alteration on the distal sesamoidean ligament are not too rare and can bei very difficult to diagnose. There is limited knowledge about the interpretation of alterations in the distal sesamoidean impar ligament (DSIL) detected using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and their correlation with histopathology. In the MRI a convincing in vivo-diagnostic aid?
Clinical signs of lead toxicosis in an Irish horse (case report)
Lead toxicosis is thought to be a rare problem in horses, and the clinical signs are variable. This case report from the UK is highly interesting, describing the non-specific clinical signs, the source of the metal and also the therapy - including the long time it takes for at least partial resolution of the clinical signs.
Suspected Ross River virus infection of horses in Australia
For sure even many equine practitioners need to look up this virus infection. This report is one of very few to attribute specific signs of disease to RRV in horses in conjunction with serological evidence of infection, describing also the not very specific clinical signs and other altered biochemical parameters.
Tracheal shape in donkeys with and without tracheal obstruction
Tracheal problems are common in small animals, especially in small or miniature dog breeds. In horses and large animals, morphologic changes of the tracheal diameter are no big problems. But donkeys are not small horses, and there is limited information on the gross tracheal morphology of donkeys with or without tracheal abnormalities. This study from Scotland is very informative!
How repeatable is subjective evaluation of lameness in horses?
A very important question since the same animal is often seen by different veterinarians - either for a second opinion or for treatment control in the same practice. No good news for the owners: especially mild lamenesses have a surprisingly low repeatability!
Typhlocolitis in aged donkeys
Typhlocolitis in horses is a life-threatening emergency, and the exact pathogenesis of the disease remains unclear. Less is known about the incidence in donkeys, but this species becomes more and more popular. This brandnew case series is very interesting!
Ultrasonography of the gastrointestinal tract of puppies with parvovirosis
The ultrasonographic appearance of the gastrointestinal tract is somewhat different between puppies and adult dogs. In this study, the ultrasonographic appearance of the gastrointestinal tract of puppies suffering from parvoviral enteritis was characterized. 40 puppies between 6 and 24 weeks of age with confirmed canine parvoviral enteritis were examined ultrasonographically within 24 h of admission. They found a pathognomonic combination of changes!
Calcium and phosphorus at different stages of chronic kidney diseases
Studies in dogs with experimental chronic kidney disease (CKD) have demonstrated that abnormalities of calcium-phosphorus (Ca-P) homeostasis occur frequently and have a negative effect on kidney function and survival. However, the prevalence of these alterations in dogs with naturally occurring CKD at different stages of severity has not yet been investigated. Do abnormalities of Ca-P metabolism occur early in the course of CKD with an increased prevalence in more severe stages? An interesting study from Spain!
Influence of tissue processing and results of endoscopic intestinal biopsies
This new study is extremely important and also scaring: It determines the consistency of interpathologist interpretation and identification of intestinal lesions associated with hypoalbuminemia. Tissues from 62 dogs and 25 cats examined as clinical cases at 7 referral veterinary practices in 4 countries were sent to 4 different pathologists by pictorial templates. How is the correlation of their results?
Multicentric myelolipoma in an old beagle
Myelolipomas in dogs can affect various tissues and organs including splen, spinal cord and adrenal glands. In this cade report, the patient is presented because of the non-specific clinical sign vomitus. The laparotomy gave surprising results!
Collagen and haemosiderin in the lungs of horses with EIPH
Equine exercise-induced pulmonary hemorrhage is a common but poorly understood problem especially in thoroughbred horses where its prevalence is up to 75%. Recently, a regional veno-occlusive remodelling of pulmonary veins in EIPH-affected horses was described, suggesting that pulmonary veins may be central to pathogenesis. The current study quantified site-specific changes in vein walls, collagen and haemosiderin accumulation, and pleural vascular profiles in the lungs of horses suffering EIPH.
Role of Clara Cell Secretory Protein in equine recurrent airway obstruction
Horses are prone to recurrent airway obstruction (RAO), an inflammatory lung disease induced by repeated exposure to environmental mold, dust, and bacterial components. Active disease manifests with mucus hyperproduction, neutrophilic inflammation, bronchoconstriction, and coughing. Chronically affected animals have lung remodeling characterized by smooth muscle hyperplasia, collagen deposition, lymphoid hyperplasia, and impaired aerobic performance. Which role do Clara Cells play in the pathogenesis?
Clostridium-perfringens-induced hemolytic anemia in a pony (case report)
Hemolytic anemia is sometimes diagnosed in horses, it is often associated with autoimmune or immune mediated diseases and thus requires immunosuppressive treatment. In this case, `routine` administration of immunsuppressive drugs would have been fatal for the patient since the anemia is caused by an abscess. This case reports illustrates once more how important good clinical examination is...
Paranasal sinus fibromatosis in a middle-aged horse
The swelling of the left paranasal area was not due to any teeth problems in this patient as one might expect: It was a tumor which had not been diagnosed before, responded very well to the therapy and might be more common than previously thought.
Direct versus indirect measurement of intra-abdominal pressure in horses
A novel experimental study was performed to develop a direct method for measuring intra-abdominal pressures in the standing horse, identify a reference interval for direct intra-abdominal pressures, compare these pressures to indirect intra-abdominal pressures measured from the bladder, and determine the optimal bladder infusion volume for indirect pressure measurement. Do both methods collerate at all, and which one is better?
Role of CXCL1 in equine laminitis
Laminitis is a common and horrible disease in horses, often leading to death or euthanisia of the affected animals or at least to permanent sequela. Still the pathogenesis of the disease is not completely understood. CXCL1, the C-X-C motif ligand 1, is an important chemokine of epithelial origin in rodents and humans. Is it also involved in the pathogenesis of equine laminitis so that there may be an additional therapeutic or even preventive option, e.g. the use of chemokine receptor antagonists?
New form of fescue-grass intoxication in horses
A new form of toxicity called equine fescue oedema is described in this new Australian report. 48 of 56 horses on six farms in different states of Australia were affected, and 4 horses died. The clinical and biochemical signs differ from those which have been described in earlier reports.
Anesthetic-induced malignant hyperthermia in quarter horses
Fortunately, malignant hyperthermia is a very rare problem, but if it occurs, it is life-threatening. In this brandnew case report, Anesthetic-induced malignant hyperthermia (MH) has been documented in Quarter Horses with a single point mutation in the ryanodine receptor 1 gene (RyR1) at nucleotide C7360G, generating a R2454G amino acid substitution, is described.
Central core-myopathy in a foal
Central core disease is a nonprogressive or slowly progressive congenital myopathy with a variable degree of hypotonia and axial and proximal muscle weakness that is histologically characterized by areas devoid of oxidative enzyme activity, resulting from an absence or low numbers of mitochondria in these regions (central core). It is well described in human beings - does it also occur in horses, and how do those patients present?
MMP-9 as a marker of inflammation in horses with COPD
COPD (chronic obrstructive pulmonary disease) is a common problem in horses often leading to euthanasia or death. This fascinating study from Finland evaluates if an increased MMP-9 level in the tracheal and not only in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid is found in affected animals thus allowing earlier therapeutic intervention in horses with COPD.
Tracheal aspirates versus bronchoalveolar lavage in racehorses
Inflammatory or infectious diseases of the lower respiratory tract in horses are common problems. Different techiniques are available to collect samples for further diagnostic procedures, e.g. cytological examinations. Is the standard fast stain Diff-Quik as good for the detection of important cell types like mast cells as Leishman´s stain is, and is the tracheal aspirate comparable with the bronchoalveolar lavage for sampling? A very interesting evaluation on almost 50 racehorses...
Organisms and clinical characteristics of infective endocarditis in dogs
Bacterial endocarditis is not too common but a very serious and sometimes life-threatening disease. Of course a prognosis must be given to the owners. Is there a relationship between causative organisms and clinical characteristics of infective endocarditis? A very interesting question which was evaluated in this study including more than 70 dogs.
Hemoglobin-based oxygen carrier solution to treat parasite-induced anemia in sheep
For sure this therapy will not become standard in large animal practice but it is interesting to know that a hemoglobin-based oxygen carrier (HBOC) solution is also effective in the treatment of parasite-induced anemia. At least it safed the live of this Barbados lamb!
Badger culling to control bovine tuberculosis
Bovine tuberculosis (TB) has re-emerged as a major problem for British cattle farmers. Failure to control the infection has been linked to transmission from European badgers; badger culling has therefore formed a component of British TB control policy since 1973. Was this work successful?
Prevalence of enteric viruses in dogs with and without diarrhea
A very interesting study has recently been performed at the University of Munich: The colleagues evaluated the prevalence of enteric viruses in healthy dogs and compared it with prevalences in dogs with acute haemorrhagic diarrhoea. With very surprising results - for example coronavirus seems to be more prevalent in healthy dogs than in dogs with acute diarrhea!
Comparison of three lung lavage techniques in pigs
Lung lavage is sometimes indicated in pigs with respiratory problems e.g. caused by Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae. This brandnew article compares three commonly used lavage techniques and can give recommendation with which method M. hyopneuomoniae is identified best - at least in healthy animals.
Insulin-like Growth Factor I Concentration in Dogs with Liver Diseases
In men, liver diseases are known to influence the serum concentration of insulin-like growth factor I (IGF-I). Is the same true for dogs? This recently published study from Germany compares serum IGF-I concentrations of dogs with primary liver diseases, healthy dogs and dogs with non-hepatic diseases.
Balloon dilatation of nasopharyngeal stenosis (case report)
A dog presented with a 6-month history of inspiratory and exspiratory upper airway stridor that began after postoperative regurgitation of gastric contents. The stridor was no longer evident when the dog`s mouth was manually held open. Computed tomography, rhinoscopy, and fluoroscopy were used to confirm a diagnosis of nasopharyngeal stenosis. Which therapy would you recommend?
Gastointestinal parasites in cats in Rio de Janeiro city
An interesting question: Which endoparasites are found in cats living in a metropole like Rio de Janeiro? Type and prevalence were investigated in 135 cats over 1 year of age and inhabiting the metropolitan region of the city of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The method is unusual: not fecal flotation but necropsy.
Spontaneous osteosarcoma in a rabbit
Osteosarcomas are very rare in rabbits but common in dogs. This recently published case report from Japan describes a rabbit with an osteosarcoma at the same predilection site as a dog. Very informative!
Secondary malignant lymphoedema after mastectomy
Radical mastectomy remains the therapy of choice in mammary tumors of dogs. But what can be the reason for a lymphoedema with lameness of a hindlimb after successful surgery? Did the surgeon make a mistake? At least in these two cases the obstructed lymph flow was caused by neoplastic cells in the lymphatics of the right hindlimb. Since mastectomy is one of the most common surgeries in daily pracitce this is important to consider...
Mann?s second type corneal dermoid in a puppy
Corneal dermoids are very rare malformations in dogs. In this Labrador retriever puppy the first reported MannÂ’s second type corneal dermoid is described.
Ciclosporin in meningoencephalomyelitis of unknown aetiology in dogs
Meningoencephalomyelitis of unknown aetiology in dogs remains an uncommon and poorly understood condition. Various treatments are described. In this study including 10 dogs, both efficacy and safety of ciclosporin therapy alone or in combination with corticosteroids and/or ketoconazole in dogs with diagnosis of meningoencephalomyelitis of unknown aetiology were evaluated.
Methylmethionine sulphonium chloride and oesophagogastric ulcers in pigs
Oesophagogastric ulcers are a common problem in pigs, and the therapy can be a problem. Does s-methylmethionine sulphonium chloride (SMMSC) (200 mg/kg) have a beneficial effect on nutritional performance of pigs and as prevention or therapy? A very fascinating recently published study!
`Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum` infections in cats
`Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum` is a fairly unknown hemoplasma which can cause very unspecific clinical signs like fever, anorexia, lethargy, and anemia. But it seems to be more important than previously thought. This recentliy published article gives more informations about diagnosis and therapy.
Endoscopic balloon dilation of benign esophageal strictures in small animals
Esophageal strictures are not too rare in small animals. Balloon dilation is the theray of choice. This very interesting article describes the results of endoscopic balloon dilation of benign esophageal strictures in 18 dogs and 10 cats with a median age of 4 years. Stricture formation was associated with a recent anesthetic episode in 18 patients.
Uterus unicornis in two horses
A very interesting case report comes from Australia - in two horses which were presented because of infertility and for a pre-breeding check. A malformation of the uterus is a rare differential that needs to be considered!
Paraneoplastic alopecia associated with liver carcinoma in a cat (case report)
Paraneoplastic alopecia is a very special and not too rare disease affecting mainly middle-aged or older cats. In the majority of cases it is associated with a pancreatic adenocarcinoma. In this very interesting patient, the tumour was found within the liver.
Correlation of L-Carnitine-level with hepatopathy
Hepatopathies are commonly diagnosed in dogs and unfortunately much functional liver tissue is damaged or destroyed before clinical signs may be seen. L-Carnitine has an essential role in lipid metabolism and is synthesized exclusively in the liver. Does liver disease influence L-carnitine metabolism and so enable the veterinarian to make a very early diagnose of hepatic disease? A very interesting and important study from Goettingen, Germany.
Purpura haemorrhagica in horses
Purpura haemorrhagica is not too common in horses. Different infectious agents are known to cause this disease, including Streptococcus equi and Corynebacterium pseudotuberculosis. This case series on more than 50 animals gives new, interesting informations...
The role of leptospira in equine recurrent uveitis
Spontaneous recurrent uveitis (ERU) in horses can be very therapy-resistant and frustrating. In many cases it finally leads to blindness. Leptospires are suspected to play an important role in this disease. A new investigation from Munich offers many new and important insights.
Bacteraemia in neonatal foals: clinical differences associated with the causing bacteria
Treatment for bacteraemia in foals must be started before the identity of the causative organism is known. Information aiding selection of effective antimicrobials should improve outcome. This recently published study from the Royal Veterinary College in London gives a lot of new and possibly life-saving information!
Role of Actinobacillus spp. in bacteremia of foals
Less is published about Actinobacillus spp. in bacteremic foals. But as this large study on more than 100 bacteremic foals shows, this is the causative organism leading to the poorest prognosis for the patient. So it should be identified as early as possible to facilitate the correct treatment decision!
Air Contact and the pH of Extended Porcine Semen
Artificial insemination is a routine procedure in sows. But what happens if the porcine semen is exposed to air? There are lots of effects, e.g. on the sperm motility parameters. A brandnew and very interesting and important study from Belgium.
Proventricular dilatation disease in parrots
Proventricular dilatation disease is a viral disease seen as a segmental neuropathy in parrots. It was thought to be very rare but it is not. A very interesting article from Australia!
Thoracolumbar disc extrusion associated with extensive epidural haemorrhage
The thoracolumbar region is the most common area for disc extrusions. These can be associated with severe hemorrhage requiring excessive hemilaminectomy (from three to seven vertebrae), otherwise the prognosis is much worse than in animals without hemorrhage. Important to know before one starts the `normal` surgery!
Spinal myelolipoma in a dog
Not all neurological problems in older dogs are caused by degenerative changes, even when the clinical signs (progressive hind leg paresis and urinary incontinence) sound like the typical history. An exciting case report from the Far East!
A new sterilizing sperm defect in a bull
The development and use of modern techniques, such as intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), gene knockout and sperm fluorescence in situ hybridization with chromosome- specific probes, have significantly increased our knowledge about sperm defects. This interesting case report from Scandinavia describes a new sperm defect in a bull which only had abnormal spermatozoa in its ejaculate.
Acquired syringomyelia in a dog (case report)
Progressive paresis in a hindleg of an older dog - a less specific sign with a long list of differential diagnoses. In this case, an intramedullary lesion was the origin and it was possible to perform a syringotomy. A very interesting case from the USA!
Sperm distribution after intrauterine insemination of sows
Artificial insemination is a standard method in sows. But who knows details about the sperm distribution in the reproductive tract after intrauterine insemination? A very interesting study from Thailand...
Comparison of three treatment methods for primary hyperparathyroidism in dogs
Several treatment methods of hyperparathyroidism in dogs are described. The main secondary problem that needs to be controlled in this disease is hypercalcemia. This large study including more than 100 patients compares the results of parathyroidectomy, percutaneous ultrasound-guided ethanol ablation and percutaneous ultrasound-guided heat ablation. Are there significant differences?
Colon duplex in a Jack Russell Terrier
Stranguria and tenesmus in a 4 month-old puppy - a rare problem in small animal practice. And also the origin of the palpable abdominal tubular mass causing this problem was unexpected: a duplication of the colon, a very rare congenital anomaly!
The role of microfilaremia in dogs with episodic weakness in Greece
Episodic weakness in hunting dogs in a dirofilaria-endemic region. In 50 dogs showing this symptom 10% were positive for Dirofilaria imminitis and 30% for Dirofilaria repens. But are heartworms really responsible for the weakness? The control group with clinically normal hunting dogs has also interesting blood results...
Unusual manifestation of salmonellosis in a young foal (case report)
Diarrhea in a foal which is caused by Salmonella typhimurium is not unusual in foals. But this foal developed other clinical signs which are not obviously associated with the diarrhea, e.g. ischemic necrosis of distal limbs. A very interesting although fatal case!
Colonic ganglioneuromatosis in a horse (case report)
Ganglioneuromas are complex tumors that arise in peripheral ganglia and are composed of well-differentiated neurons, nerve processes, Schwann cells, and enteric glial cells. They are not very common in horses but an important differential diagnosis in intestinal tumors, as this case report illustrates...
Radiographic and ultrasonographic evaluation of the patellar ligament following TPLO
Objective evaluation of patellar ligament changes following tibial plateau leveling osteotomy (TPLO) for cranial cruciate ligament injury has not been published to date. This recently published study evaluates more than 30 joints over a longer period of time - with very interesting results...
Mixed Hepatoblastoma with Teratoid Features in Three Horses
Hepatoblastomas are believed to be rare tumours of the liver in horses. As this case report from Kentucky illustrates, the can present in different ways - and even as a coincidental finding at necropsy. An unusual and informative report!
Primary hypoparathyroidism in dogs
Clinico-pathological findings, response to treatment and prevalence of complications in dogs with primary hypoparathyroidism in Australia were evaluated in this study. Although the disease is very rare it is important to consider in dogs with neurological signs.
Bacterial keratitis - clinical characteristics and bacterial isolates
Keratitis in dogs is commonly diagnosed and generally a therapy should be started as soon as possible. But it takes some days before the results of bacterial culture come back and a specific antibiotic can be choosen. Which therapy should be started in between? The results of this study are very useful for every small animal pracitioner!
Signalment and clinical features of diskospondylitis in dogs
Diskospondylitis is an uncommon but serious disease in dogs. Signalment, clinical features of the disease, and treatment in dogs with diskospondylitis were determined in a large case-control study including more than 500 patients and more than 200 000 controls. A study with very interesting results - for example Great Danes are a predisposed breed, and male dogs are also on higher risk!
Prevalence of UTI in dogs with surgically treated type 1 thoracolumbar intervertebral disc extrusion
Disc extrusions which require surgical intervention are very common in small animal practice. Other associated problems like UTI (urinary tract infections) sometimes become neglected in these patients. How common do they really occur and are there any risk groups? The results are very interesting...
Hypertrophic osteopathy associated with infective endocarditis in a dog
The history suggests lots of other differentials: intermittent shifting lameness in a young boxer, associated with lethargy. But the primary disease - infective endocarditis leading to hypertrophic osteopathy - is rare in veterinary medicine. A very informative case report!
Distribution and Genetic Variability Among Campylobacter Spp. in Switzerland
Campylobacter infections in humans have become more important than Salmonella infections. In Switzerland, a national database with 1028 Campylobacter isolates from poultry, pigs, cats, dogs, cattle, humans, zoo animals and water has been created. The database contains the genetic fingerprint and background information of each Campylobacter isolate. Very informative!
Cardiovascular and pulmonary effects of sedatives and anesthetics in traumatized patients
An extremely important study because traumatized patients who need sedation or anesthesia are seen daily in small animal practices. Which drug is the drug of choice? None, and many factors need to be taken into account. One very important conclusion of this investigation: Familiarity with an anesthetic drug is a very important reason for its selection.
Nonsurgical treatment of atlantoaxial subluxation in dogs
Surgical intervention and stabilisation has been the gold standard in the treatment of atlantoaxial subluxation, a genetic defect in certain small breeds. Is there really no nonsurgical effective treatment? There is another option, especially in young dogs, as this study on 19 dogs illustrates.
Diuresis and fenoldopam in healthy cats
Diuretics are sometimes indicated in cats and besides the classic furosemide other substances are investigated. What about the effect of an fenoldopam infusion on urine output, sodium excretion, creatinine clearance, and indirect blood pressure in healthy cats? A new prospective study investigates these effects.
PCR-tests in cats with plasmacytic pododermatitis
Plasmacytic pododermatitis is an unique disease of cats whose pathogenesis is not fully clear. In this study, DNA of various infectious agents (including bacteria, viruses and toxoplasma) were tested via PCR. Very interesting!
Feline pancreatitis - prevalence and histopathological characteristics
Despite the high prevalence of feline pancreatic disease, no detailed description on the histopathologic nature of this disease is currently available in the literature. This brandnew article gives an overview over both prevalence and histopathological changes. Very interesting not only for histopathologists!
Old and new concepts in the fluid therapy of traumatized patients
A very interesting topic in the daily practice: what kind of fluid therapy is currently thought to be the best for use in trauma resuscitation? This article reviews the rationale behind and experiences with traditional and newly evolving concepts of fluid therapy in the traumatized patient as well as conventional and novel fluid preparations.
Therapy results in cats and dogs with naturally occurring cryptococcosis
Cryptococcosis is a common problem in certain geographical regions. The disease is thought to be difficult and very expensive to treat, with a poor prognosis. But after reading this retrospective study including 59 cats and 11 dogs at the University Veterinary Centre Sydney from 1986 to 2004 it seems that a therapy should at least be tried!
Lead and cadmium in blood and hair of cattle exposed to pollution
A very interesting and important study - the trace mineral profile in blood and hair from cows environmentally exposed to lead and cadmium and the examination if these toxic heavy metals in blood and hair could affect blood copper, cobalt, zinc and iron concentrations and their accumulation in hair.
Chemotherapy plus half-body radiation therapy for canine lymphoma
The combination of radiotherapy and chemotherapy is commonly used in human medicine: The radiotherapy mainly is thought to decrease the size of the primary tumor, chemotherapy mainly acts against metastases. It is not a common combination in one of the most common canine malignant tumors, malignant lymphoma. Is it an indication for this therapy? A very interesting study including nearly 100 dogs.
DMAC protocol in relapsing canine lymphomas
Lymphomas are very common malignant neoplasias in dogs. Different chemotherapies are used currently - their general problem is the shorrt duration of remission but the high relapse rate. Is this brandnew DMAC protocol superior to the `old` ones?
Surgical treatment of extensive chondroid formation in the guttural pouch of a horse
Purulent nasal discharge in horses is commonly seen. This patient that showed no response to antibiotic therapy had a rare disease: more than 200 chondroid masses in one guttural pouch. The surgical therapy was very successful, also at the long-term follow-ups, as this case report illustrates.
Seroprevalences of antibodies against various organisms in cats
Bartonella, Toxoplasma, Cryptosporidia and Giardia are common problems in both feral and pet cats. But how common are they in different populations? A very interesting Survey from the USA.
Ultrasonography to detect foreign bodies
Not all foreign bodies are visible on x-rays but they remain an important differential diagnosis in chronic ascesses or draining tracts. A very informative study including 6 dogs.
Novel therapy of a severe congenital tarsal arthrogryposis in a cat
A non-weightbearing lameness on the right hindlimb with a severe tarsal hyperextension and concurrent spasticity/contracture/shortening of the gastrocnemius muscle-tendon - this combination seems hopeless. But not for the colleagues in the UK who combined intramuscular injections of botulinum toxin A with a partial arthrodesis later. An exciting new therapy!
Surgical, systemic and topical therapy of nasal aspergillosis
None of these therapies is really new in canine nasal aspergillosis, and none of them as monotherapy has become really convincing in the last years. Is the combination of all three approaches the therapeutic nonplusultra?
Success rates of pacemaker implantation in dogs
Pacemaker implantation has become a routine therapy in men. Also in many dogs a pacemaker is indicated but sometimes owners and veterinarians doubt if this therapy is equally effective in dogs. This study including more than 100 dogs helps to decide: the success rate is more than 90 percent!
Cyclosporine plus ketoconazole in perianal fistules
Perianal fistules are very painful and can be hard to treat - a problem still leading to euthanasia in some dogs. Cyclosporine A alone or in combination with ketoconazole is the therapy of choice at the moment. Here are very interesting results regarding therapeutic response and side effects - facts every small animal practitioner should know to give the best therapeutic recommendations to the owners...
Ear diseases leading to inner ear dysfunction
A very interesting summary of ear diseases, one of the most problems seen in daily practice: Inner ear disease can be either primary, with dysfunction of the cochlea or the vestibulum or both, as a result of pathology of the inner ear itself; or secondary as a result of extension of disease from surrounding structures, usually the middle ear. Which diagnostic steps should be undertaken and which therapies are indicated?
Helicobacter pylori-like bacterium in pigs
Helicobacter pylori is blamed for a variety of gastrointestinal symptoms in humans and is also diagnosed in dogs. A related bacterium can cause severe gastroesophageal ulcers in piglets depending from the diet, as this very informative recently published study illustrates.
Chronic shoulder osteoarthritis in a turtle
Osteoarthritis is a common problem in many species including men. Especially older dogs are often presented with a chronic osteoarthritis of the shoulder joint. This problem is rare in turtles but maybe it is just underdiagnosed, as this case report shows. The patient showed much more signs than pain!
Oral budesonide and the pituitary-adrenal axis in healthy dogs
Budesonide is commonly used as an alternative to corticosteroids in inflammatory bowel disease in humans especially in children and since some years also in some dogs. Does it also alter the pituitary-adrenal axis in dogs? A very interesting new investigation.
Intracranial fusariosis in a dog (case report)
Meningoencephalitis in dogs is not too rare and can be caused by a variety of diseases. A fungal infection is one of them. Although aspergillosis is much more common also fusariosis should be considered, as this case report shows.
Australian strains of porcine circovirus types 1 and 2 - genetic characterisation
As post-weaning multi-systemic wasting syndrome (PMWS) has not been identified within Australia, to determine if the absence of disease was associated with genetic differences between the strains of porcine circovirus (PCV) present in Australia and those from countries in association with PMWS. Is there any difference? An interesting question...
Experimental Vesicular Stomatitis Virus Infection in Horses
A very informative study since vesicular stomatitis is a very painful and serious disease. Interesting details were especially found concerning the mode of transmission: in feces and blood for example virus particles were never found and the transmission by vectors is possible.
Myosin Heavy Chain Composition in Normal and Atrophic Equine Laryngeal Muscle
Laryngeal muscle atrophy is a serious problem in horses. The myosin heavy chain (MHC) composition of a given muscle determines the contractile properties and, therefore, the fiber type distribution of the muscle. So it is interesting to evaluate if the MHC composition differs in healthy and in atrophic laryngeal muscles and perhaps to develop new therapies in the future.
Uterus masculinus in a cat (case report)
A middle-aged castrated male cat presented with urethral obstruction - it seems to be a routine case. A catheter is placed but the urine does not go through it but passes it - very stragen. And the reason for this phenomenon is both surprising and rare: an uterus masculinus! How can it be diagnosed?
Pyothorax caused by spirocercosis
Pyothorax is often caused by penetrating wounds in dogs. But also parasites can be the cause, and a parasiticidal therapy is at least as important as the antibacterial intervention. A very interesting publication from Israel where spirocercosis-associated pyothorax is not too rare.
Feline viral plaques and bowenoid in situ carcinomas
They are rather common and are often misdiagnosed: Feline viral plaques (FVP) induced by papillomavirus (PV) are often hyperpigmented and flat warts. But are they always benign? The fact that up to 47% of bowenoid in situ carcinomas (BISC), which also usually occur in the form of hyperpigmented plaques, are positive for PV antigen in immunochemistry suggests that BISC could evolve from FVP.
Prevalence and risk factors for Giardia and Cryptosporidium in calves and cows
Giardia and Cryptosporidium Spp. are well-known to cause mild to severe gastrointestinal problems. Especially in calves these infections can become life-threatening. This brandnew study evaluates risk factors for shedding of Cryptosporidium spp. and Giardia spp. and the pravelnce of these organisms in cows and calves from western Canadian cow-calf herds. Very interesting - not only for Canada!
Feral pigs as source of protozoal contamination for surface water
A very informative study from California - Giardia and Cryptosporidium oocysts are a common cause of gastrointestinal problems in various mammalian species including humans. Not only pet and farm animals, also feral pigs are important sources of these parasites!
Tetanus in dogs - the best therapy
Dogs are less susceptible for tetanus than other species but the disease still remains serious and life-threatening. This recently published article gives an excellent summary of pathophysiology, clinical signs, diagnosis, and an update on new treatment modalities.
Postoperative pulmonary complications in dogs undergoing laparotomy
Every small animal practitioner knows this problem: a laparatomy is performed, everything seems to be normal, and suddenly severe anesthetic problems start and sometimes even the patient is lost. Why does this happen, and which dogs are at risk? A very interesting and large study on more than 160 dogs undergoing laparatomy...
Effect of breed on anatomy of portosystemic shunts
A very interesting question and a very interesting study on nearly 250 animals: Do species and breed have an effect on the anatomy of portosystemic vascular anomalies in dogs and cats? A large retrospective study from Australia.
Portosystemic shunt - diagnosis via liver radiography?
A simple technique, fast and inexpensive and without risk for the patient - and it can be performed in every small animal practice. A wonderful option! But it is really possible to diagnose a congenital malformation like a portosystemic shunt via simple right lateral radiograpy and measuring the hepatic size?
Thoracic radiography in dogs - ventrodorsal or dorsoventral?
A very important question in daily practice which is often discussed controversially. This study gives a clear answer: It depends from the structures one is focussing on if the ventrodorsal or the dorsoventral radiograph is better...
Use of the placenta in diagnosis of EHV-1 and EHV-4-infection
If a foal is aborted, it is often sent to the pathologist to find the reason why this happened. But especially in cases of equine herpesvirus infections, which are often cause abortion, the placenta is at least as useful for the diagnosis than the foal itself. So one should always give the pathologists both, as this interesting German study illustrates...
Three tick-borne diseases in the same dog (case report)
Ehrlichia canis, Hepatozoon canis, and Anaplasma phagocytophilum in the same dog - this is really unusual, even in Greece, where this case report comes from. Since many dogs in Germany are imported from areas where these parasites are endemic it is mandatory even in Germany to know more about clinical signs and diagnosis!
Persistent urinary tract infections and reinfections in dogs
Persistent or recurrent urinary infections are a common problem in dogs. Many presdisposing diseases, e.g. prostatitis, hyperadrenocorticism, are described. This wonderful study analyses the data of 100 dogs with persistent urinary tract infections or reinfections and gives very interesting results!
Long-term treatment of dogs with steroid-responsive meningitis-arteritis
An important differential diagnosis especially for cervical discopathy: Steroid-responsive meningitis-arteritis is an immunopathological disease in dogs which is characterised by neck pain and can look so dramatically that some owners are even willing to euthanize the dog. How is the long-term prognosis? A very important study from Switzerland!
Bilateral uterine hemangiosarcoma mimicking hemometra
A very interesting case report of a patient that seemed to be clearly diagnosed: a dog with hemorrhagic vulvar discharge, abdominal swelling and bilateral uterine enlargement. The colleagues were sure that they removed a hemometra...
Occurrence of Autoreactive Antibodies in Sera of Pregnant and Non-pregnant Bitches
Hormonal changes during the pregnancy lead to lots of sequela, and it is often supposed that also autoreactive antibodies are produced in this time which might lead even to autoimmune or immune-mediated diseases. In this interesting new study several autoreactive antibodies were measured every fifth day during pregnancy and the results were compared with the non-pregnant control group.
Ultrasound of the small intestinal wall thickness in dogs with IBD
IBD (inflammatory bowel disease) is an intestinal disease which is described in both humans and dogs. Unfortunately, the diagnosis of this disease can be very difficult. Is the `grey zone` which is seen in ultrasonography a reliable parameters in dogs as it is in humans? A very interesting question...
Azathioprine makes the difference
Cyclophosphamide plus prednisone or both in combination with azathioprine, what is the best therapeutic choice for dogs with immune-mediated hemolytic anemia (IMHA)? After reviewing 60 dogs with this not uncommon disease with a high mortality rate, the answer is clear!
Nocardia infections in cats in Australia
Nocardiosis is a rare but very serious disease which also occurs in cats. This excellent summary gives an update of nocardiosis and compares this case series of 17 cats with cases previously reported.
Linear versus sector probe for abdominal pregnancy diagnosis in dogs
The assessment of an early and reliable pregnancy diagnosis in sows is very important for limiting the number of non-productive days in sow herds. Transabdominal ultrasound pregnancy diagnosis has become very popular not only in small animals but also in sows. Which method is the most accurate in this species? An important question!
Liver changes in epileptic dogs receiving phenobarbital
Phenobarbital is one of the first-line antiepileptica in dogs. It is well known that it can induce enzyme induction leading to increase of certain enzymes in the serum, e.g. alkaline phosphatase. The histopathological changes of the liver itself and also the effects on certain blood parameters are described in this very interesting article.
Local anesthetic delivery system for dogs after total ear canal ablation
It is well known that surgery in the ear region is very painful and that good anesthesia is mandatory for several days after surgery. Different protocols are described currently. Can this new one, basing on a completely new principle, be used as an alternative to i.v. morphine infusions?
Neurological diseases in dogs - new insights
A very interesting large study, including more than 4000 dogs with neurological diseases seen at a referral hospital in Switzerland. Lots of informations and surprises regarding breeds, kind of diseases etc. can be found.
Chlamydia-related abortions in Swiss cattle
In 2001, the first case of bovine chlamydial abortion was reported in canton Graubunden, Switzerland. In this region, Chlamydophila (Cp.) abortus is endemic in small ruminants. So the incidence of chlamydia-related abortions in cattle from this region was evaluated in this brandnew study - and a potential zoonotic risk was detected.
Treatment of meningoencephalitis of unknown origin
It affects mainly young to middle-aged dogs and remains a very mysterious disease: meningoencephalitis of unknown origin. This brandnew article tries to help to understand this disease better - and evaluates chemotherapy with combined cytosine arabinoside and prednisone.
Mucinous mammary carcinoma in the cat
Mammary tumours are rare in the cat, but when they occur, they are malignant in most of the cases. This brandnew report describes a special mammary tumour: the mucinous carcinoma. Very informative!
Prevalence of chlamydiae in ruminants´semen
A very important question after chlamydia-induced abortions in Swiss cattle have been reported. Chlamydiae infect male genital organs of ruminants. However, little is known about their prevalence. This brandnew study shows the results of a study performed in cooperation between Zurich and Bangkok.
Ciprofloxacin instead of enrofloxacin in disk diffusion susceptibility test (DDT)?
Ciprofloxacin is one of the metabolites of enrofloxacin and is used as antibiotic in human medicine. Can it be used to to assess the in vitro susceptibility of otic bacterial organisms to enrofloxacin and to determine the effect of concurrent enrofloxacin administration on the DDT results for enrofloxacin and ciprofloxacin? A very interesting question!
Identification of Leptospira causing equine abortion
Leptospiral infections are one of the differential diagnoses in naturally occuring equine abortion. But like in small animals, these organisms can be very difficult to detect. Is the new technique immunohistochemistry (IHC) superior to the `classic` techniques silver staining and serology? A very important question!
Experimental Plague in Cats - histopathologic findings
Yersinia pestis is the organism causing bubonic plague in humans. Seven cats were experimentally infected with these bacilli and their tissues were examined to see if also this species developes bubonic plague lesions and how they can be characterized histopathologically. Very interesting!
Clinical forms of acquired myasthenia gravis in dogs
A rare and fascinating disease both in humans and in dogs: Myasthenia gravis is one of the `great imitators` with many various clinical mainfestations. After reading this excellent article, one might be suspicious to have also seen this disease in the past but misdiagnosed it.
Prostaglandin-analysis to differentiate between pyometra and cystic endometrial hyperplasia
Sometimes a difficult question since the clinical signs can be identical: does the bitch suffer from cystic endometrial hyperplasia or from pyometra or mucometra? This brandnew study from Sweden is very helpful - if special metabolites of PGF2alpha can be measured in the laboratory, the differentiation is a lot easier and even can predict the severity of uterine diseases.
The new parvo - canine influenza
Canine influenza (canine flu) has been confirmed in 22 states of the USA. `This is the new parvo`, an expert says of the canine influenza outbreak. Cynda Crawford, an expert in canine influenza from the University of Florida, reports that this airborne virus is more widespread than once thought. Preliminary data show an at least 16 percent infection rate and a 7-percent mortality rate.
Risk factors for myasthenia gravis acquisita in dogs
Myasthenia gravis acquisita was described to be a disease mainly affecting female German Shepherd dogs of young to middle age. In this excellent study from Davis, California, the data of nearly 1200 dogs suffering from this rare disease were analyzed and it became clear: Other breeds are much more affected - and there are also other risk factors besides the breed.
Do clomipramine and selegiline influence impulse control?
Anxiety disorders in dogs are often accompanied by loss of impulse control and can result in inappropriate behaviour such as destructiveness, excessive barking and aggression. The reduction of these undesirable actions is the focus of behaviour therapy. Are clomipramine and selegeline the drugs of choice? An interesting study using a rat model.
Cabergoline plus cloprostenol to induce abortion in the third quarter of pregnancy
In small animal practice the induction of an abortion at this stage of the pregnancy is rarely indicated. But if it should become necessary, it is good to know that the combination of oral cabergoline and perenteral cloprostenol seems to be a safe and efficient method.
Role of diet in the prevention of diabetes and obesity
Obesity and related problems become more and more common in dogs and cats, like in their human counterparts. Genetics may play a role in this problem, but what about the diet. And can the diet prevent our pets from getting diseases like diabetes mellitus? A very interesting study from Asia.
Primary uterine inertia in dogs - aetiology and treatment
Problems around the birth are common in small animal practice. The bitch and the puppies are of high emotional and often also financial value for their owners, and the decision if oxytocin or sectio caesarea is indicated can be very difficult. This prospective study on 27 bitches with primary uterine inertia is very informative.
Torsion and volvulus of the transverse and descending colon in a dog (case report)
A very interesting case - a dog with signs of a gastric dilatation/volvulus that had been surgically treated for this problem only 2 months ago. And at the time of the second presentation it had developed a torsion of parts of the colon, a problem, which is much more common in horses. An unusual and interesting case from the Royal Veterinary College.
Bluetongue virus does not descend from vaccine
In the last weeks it was speculated that the bluetongue virus outbreak in the Netherlands, Belgium and Germany might descend from a virus from a vaccine used in other countries, e.g. in Southern Europe. Now scientists at the Institute for Animal Health`s Pirbright Laboratory have shown that the bluetongue virus causing disease in the Netherlands is serotype 8 - a serotype that has not previously been identified in Europe.
Association of laboratory data and death in cats with CRF
CRF (chronic renal failure) is one of the most common causes of death in older cats. Often the clinical signs are not specific in the early stage and so the diagnosis is made in a late stage of the disease. Are their any laboratory changes that allow the veterinarian to predict that the animal is likely to die within the next month? An interesting study from Japan.
Bluetongue disease reaches Germany
After in the Netherlands, also in Belgium and Germany bluetongue disease has been reported in North Rhine Westphalia. In Aachen, were the `Weltreiterspiele 2006` currently take place, 15 bovine cases have been reported.
First case of bluetongue disease in northern Europe
The bluetongue disease of sheep is a worldwide problem. The last cases in Europe were found in Greece and Italy. Now there is the first case in northern Europe: a farm in the south of the Netherlands is affected.
Can one predict the efficacy of phenobarbital in dogs with epilepsy?
A very interesting question - phenobarbital is the first drug of choice in the treatment of canine primary epilepsy, but unfortunately not all dogs respond to this treatment. In this study, a correlation between GABA in the liquor cerebrospinalis and the efficacy of phenobarbital was found. Not a routine diagnostic tool for every epileptic patient, of course, but very fascinating!
Gabapentin as additional therapy in dogs with refractory idiopathic epilepsy
One of the nightmares of every small animal practitioner: a dog with refractory epilepsy, already receiving appropriate doses of phenobarbitone and/or potassium bromide. Often, these patients are euthanized. Can the epilepsy be controlled if gabapentin is added to the antiepileptic medication? An extremely interesting study from Australia!
Immunotoxic activity of the fungal immunosuppressans ochratoxin A
Ochratoxin A (OTA) is an immunosuppressant fungal compound, produced by toxigenic species of Aspergillus and Penicillium fungi in a wide variety of climates and geographical regions. The contamination of food by this mycotoxin takes place primarily during preharvest periods. Which immunosuppressant activity does OTA exactly have?
Which rapid staining technique is the best for cytologic diagnosis of intracranial lesions?
Cytologic diagnosis is fast, inexpensive and with low risk for the patient and thus it has become very popular over the laast years. But the diagnosis depends from the collcection of the sample, the preparation technique and the stains. Which of the four most common rapid staining solutions gives the best results at least for the samples of intracranial lesions? Modified Wright stain, May-Grunwald-Giemsa, toluidine blue or zynostain are tested.
Pharmacokinetics of a single dose of diltiazem in horses
Diltiazem, a calcium-channel blocker, is a standard drug in small animal medicine. Less is known about its pharmacokinetics in horses. What happens with the drug after a single intravenous injection? Here is the answer, at least for healthy horses.
Diagnostic accuracy of ultrasound-guided fine needle cell aspiration in canine prostatic diseases
Prostatic diseases are very common especially in older dogs. Cyst, abscess, inflammation or neoplasia - the differentiation is often made by ultrasound-guided fine needle cell aspiration (US-FNA). But only a few studies exist evaluating the diagnostic accuracy of prostatic cytology. Here is a new one!
Update in feline nocardiosis in Australia
Nocardiosis is thought to be a rare but serious disease. In the new Australian Veterinary Journal there is a very interesting update.
Diacylglycerol for weight reduction in obese dogs
Obesity in dogs and cats have been increasingly recognized in recent years. Because obesity underlies various diseases, pet owners and veterinarians have an important responsibility to help animals lose weight and maintain their health. But as in humans, losing weight is much more difficult than gaining weight. Is diacylglycerol a substance that helps solving this problem? It seems so!
Intraoperative Use of Ultrasonography During Continuous Dorsal Laminectomy in `Wobblers`
The `Wobbler syndrome`, a congenital caudal cervical vertebral instability and malformation (CCVIM), is still a problem in certain breeds e.g. Doberman pinscher and Great Dane. Surgery is the therapy of choice for many years. Intraoperative ultrasound imaging technique during dorsal laminectomy in 2 dogs with CCVIM is described in this brandnew article, and it offers a lot of advantages.
Do probiotic bacteria improve the effect of an elimination diet in dogs?
A very important question which is commonly asked by owners of dogs with food responsive diarrhea - Is elimination diet alone sufficient, or should probiotic bacteria be recommended? A very informative recently published study has the answer...
Inhaler device using isoflurane for short term anesthesia in piglets
Since several months, castration of piglets is only allowed undes anesthesia. So for this indication and for other surgical procedures an effective short-acting anesthesia is needed. This novel inhaler is a good option...
Successful management of CNS dysfunction due to Rocky Mountain spotted fever
Rocky Mountain spotted fever (RMSF), caused by Rickettsia rickettsii, is a well-known problem in certain areas of the USA. Normally, the mortality rate increases if CNS signs occur. But as these case reports show, it is worth to treat these dogs.
Dietary probiotic supplementation in primiparous sows
Probiotic supplementation is very popular in humans and probiotic cultures are also fed to dogs, cats, rabbits etc. The supplementation in sows is unusual. Do these microorganisms have any positive effect on performance and health status? A very interesting new study from Weihenstephan, Germany.
Pharmacokinetics of fentanyl in dogs
Single intravenous injection or constant rate infusion? This interesting study compares several methods of application and their influence on the plasma concentration.
Magnetic resonance imaging in a dog with otitis media
Otitis externa and media are common problems in dogs. Especially an otitis media can be difficult to diagnose only based on the clnical and otoscopic examination - neurologic examination and diagnostic imaging is often indicated. As this case report illustrates, magnetic resonance imaging can supply informations which are not obtained with radiography or computed tomography.
Macroglossia in dachshunds associated with congenital nasopharyngeal stenosis
Macroglossia is sometimes diagnosed in men, but it is very rare in dogs. But which differentials need to be considered when a patient is presented with this problem? If it is a dachshund, a congenital nasopharyngeal stenosis is likely, as this interesting study from South Africa shows.
Lidocaine oder procainamide in postoperative ventricular arrythmias?
An interesting questions, ventricular arrhythmias belong to the most common complications after succesful surgery of gastric torsion and other surgeries. Quick and effective management is essential. Can the `classic` lidocaine bolus still be recommended?
Total parenteral nutrition in cats - a retrospective evaluation
Total parenteral nutrition (TPN) is sometimes indicated in cats. Less is published concerning the frequency of complications and the risk factors for complications. This retrospective study including 40 patients gives important new informations.
Avian influenza H5N1 reaches Spain
The Spanish authorities have informed the European Commission on July 10th that tests have confirmed the presence of the highly pathogenic avian influenza virus H5N1 in a wild duck found dead in a wetland in the province of Alava in the Basque Country.
Critically ill cats and their alterations in carbohydrate metabolism
It is well known that cats with severe diseases tend to develop potentially life-threatening alterations in their carbohydrate metabolism, related to the development of hyperglycemia. But what happens exactly? This recently published study gives very interesting informations - cats react like humans!
Severe thrombocytopenia associated with splenic torsion (case report)
Thrombocytopenia in dogs is a life-threatening problem which can have various causes. In these two standard poodles the intraabdominal mass which was idenitified as splenic torsion on surgery was the reason, and their removal was curative. Very brave to do surgery on dogs with such a severe thrombopenia - but succesful...
Clinical trials with embryonic stem cells in near future
After lots of discussions in the last months and years, now the first treatment derived from embryonic stem cells might soon undergo clinical trials. The first trial will be done to help repair damaged spinal tissue. The advantage: Compared with other tissues, brain and spinal cord tissue have a relatively inactive immune system.
Fever in dogs - a retrospective study
A dog with `fever` - every practitioner knows that there are dozens of differential diagnoses to consider. This new study evaluates the records of 66 dogs presented with `fever` - including laboratory testing, diagnoses and influence of prior treatment. Very interesting new informations - for example the high incidence of immune-mediated disease in dogs referred for investigation of fever!
Ketamine in status epilepticus
Status epilepticus is defined as 2 or more seizures without complete recovery of consciousness between seizures, or persistent seizure activity for more than 30 minutes constitute the definition of status epilepticus (SE) in human medicine. There are various `classic` therapeutics like diazepam or barbiturates. Ketamine might be a new option...
Serum concentrations of steroid hormones after two doses of cosyntropin
5 microgramm per kg body weight or a total dose of 250 microgramm per dog for the ACTH test? A difficult question since both protocols are recommended to test steroid hormones and adrenal sex hormones and their intermediates. A very interesting study looking for the best method.
Comparison of two jugular catheter placement techniques
Central intravenous catheters have become very important not only in human but also in veterinary medicine. Which method is the best? The ease of placement of central intravenous catheters in the dog using 2 techniques: the modified Seldinger jugular catheter placement technique and the through-the-needle jugular catheter placement technique, was compared in this very interesting and brandnew study!
Salmonella serovars in chicken and humans in Lithuania
There are many Salmonella serovars which are new for the `normal` veterinarian, e.g. Salmonella montevideo and Salmonella bovismorbificans. But this interesting study shows not only strange Salmonella serovars, it also shows that similar serovars of Salmonella were found in humans and chicken and that there is a shift over time in both humans and chicken.
Proliferative enteropathy due to Lawsonia intracellularis in a filly
Not unusual in pigs: profuse diarrhea caused by the obligate intracellular bacterium Lawsonia intracellularis. The `Proliferative enteropathy` (PE) is a disease of high economic impact in swine worldwide. In most other species the disease occurs as a sporadic infection. It has never been described in horses before. This case comes from Switzerland.
Lidocaine 5% patch in dogs
Patches with analgetics, hormones, nicotine etc. are very popular in human medicine. Lidocaine is increasingly used in transdermal drug delivery systems for different pain conditions in human medicine whereby several pharmacokinetic studies have demonstrated minimal systemic absorption in men. Can it also be used for dogs? An important question and an interesting study from Belgium.
Changes in semen quality in Estonian Holstein AI Bulls at different ages
The predictability of semen quality of mature sires from measurements at an early age is not well established but very useful. This study determines age-dependent changes in the quality of bull semen from six Estonian Holstein (EHF) bulls, processed when the sires were 3, 5 and 7 years old. With very interesting results!
Human rabies increasing problem in China
The elevation of the dog from culinary item to household companion in Chinese society is being accompanied by an unexpected increase in the burden of cases of human rabies. Previous reports from China have described the containment of canine rabies in the capital by the licensing and compulsory vaccination of domestic pets.
Intranuclear Coccidiosis in Tortoises
The disease is considered to be rare but mightbe it is more common than suspected: Nine tortoises of 5 differerent breeds had an intranuclear coccidiosis which was systemic and ended fatally. A very informative case report!
A Fell Pony foal with severe combined immunodeficiency
Watery diarrhea in a pony foal which is only 5 days old. Nothing to worry about, only necessary to check for endoparasites and give a supportive therapy? Unfortunately not enough, if the reason for the symptoms is a rare but very dramatic combined immunodeficiency. A very interesting case report which ended fatally...
Chlamydial infections in guinea-pigs and their zoonotic potential
Guinea-pigs are very popular pets and especially children like to be in very close contact with them. It is well-known that these pets can be a zoonotic risk, e.g. up to 30 percent of them are asymptomatic carriers of the dermatophyte Trichophyton mentagrophytes. But also chlamydiales can be a problem, as this new study from Zurich shows...
Dietary-induced polioencephalomalacia in cattle
Polioencephalomalacia (PEM) in ruminants has been recognized as a consequence of excess sulphur intake. But where can this sulphur come from since most cattle receive very balanced food? The answer is very simple: from prolonged feeding of barley malt sprouts what is fortunately to too common. An interesting case report from Turkey...
Angiostrongylus vasorum and the serum fructosamine concentration
Serum fructosamine is thought to be a very reliable parameter in the diagnosis of diabetes mellitus in dogs. In this very interesting study from Denmark is shown that Angiostrongylus vasorum can influence the fructosamine level - and that a Baermann-Wetzel-test may be indicated in cases with low fructosamine levels...
In-feed Lincomycin against Proliferative Enteropathy
Proliferative enteropathy (PE; also known as ileitis) in growing pigs remains a disease with high morbidity and signifikant economical consequences. Is in-feed lincomycin given for some weeks an efficious therapy of this problem? A brandnew study from Greece.
Changing trends in composition of feline uroliths
Every small animal practitioner knows the problem of urinary obstruction due to uroliths in cats. In the last decades most of the uroliths were composed by struvite. Now there is an important trend at least in Minnesota: calcium oxalate uroliths have strongly increased - from 2% 1981 (versus 78% struvite uroliths) to 55% 2002 (versus 33% struvite uroliths).
Gastrocutaneous fistula in a dog
A non-healing wound at the caudal thorax wall in a middle-aged dog. Of course a fistula caused by a foreign body is one of the most likely differentials. But in this dog, the foreign body came from the stomach, and just its removal was not enough. A very informative case report!
Liver Fluke (Platynosomum concinnum) Infection in Three Cats
Vomiting, lethargy, anorexia and jaundice in a middle-aged cat - these are unspecific signs which can be caused by a variety of hepatic and extrahepatic diseases. Platynosomum concinnum might not be your first choice - but it should be included in the list of differential diagnoses...
Ubiquitin staining in muscles of horses with Polysaccharide Storage Myopathy
Equine polysaccharide storage myopathy (EPSSM) is a well-known phenomenon in certain horse breeds like Quarter and Paint horses and also some draft horses. Diagnosis is not always easy to confirm. Is ubiquitin staining superior to the `classic` staining techniques? An interesting question for veterinarians and breeders!
Does hyoscine spare dobutamine in halothane-anaesthetized horses?
An important question which also cannot be answered after reading this very interesting study from Great Britain. The effect of the hyoscine dosis which was used was too short, higher or repeated doses have to be investigated now.
Intranasal benzodiazepines, á2-agonists and their antagonists in canaries
Canaries sometimes require sedation or anesthesia but everybody knows that this is much more difficult and risky than in other species. Is the intranasal application an alternative that can be recommended? It seems so, as this interesting study from Iran shows.
Cyproheptadine in cats
Cyproheptadine is sometmes used in cats to stimulate their appetite. What about the distribution in the body after oral or intravenous application? The results of this study give interesting informations...
Distribution of cyproheptadine in cats
Cyproheptadine is a potent drug to treat anoerxia in humans as well as in cats. Different application forms (i.v. or p.o.) are available. Is the i.v. injection more effective, and if the drug is given orally, which dose interval is the best? A very interesting study!
Parvovirus Antibodies in Vaccinated Gilts ¨C HI versus ELISA tests
Still parvovirus infections are responsible for economical losses is swine `production`. Vaccination is possible, but does the vacciantion lead to protective antibody titers? A very interesting new study from Finland.
Chromobacterium violaceum Infection in Two Dogs from Florida
Chromobacterium violaceum is a saprophyte of soil and water in tropical and subtropical environments that is associated with rare but highly fatal infections in animals and humans. Infections are sometimes seen in dogs and so veterinarians should be familiar with clinical signs of this infection. A very interesting case report!
Central Nervous System Cuterebrosis in a Dog
Acute stupor, disorientation and tetraparesis in a young dog - a difficult problem with a lot of differential diagnoses to consider. One of them is cuterebrosis, but for sure not the first one would think of. A very informative case report!
Endometrial adenocarcinoma and mucometra (case report)
Reduced appetite, chronic abdominal enlargement and greenish vaginal discharge in a dog that has received depot gestagens over years. A pyometra, of course? Also other differentials need to be considered, as shown in this very interesting case report from Spain.
One-step low-profile gastrostomy device in dogs - complications
One-step low-profile gastrostomy device is a technique which is used for a variety of reasons in dogs. Can it be recommended and how common are complications? A very informative noew study!
Cloprostenol-induced versus Spontaneous Oestrus Fertility in Dairy Cows
A short calving to conception interval is of main importance to achieve high economic efficiency in dairy cow industry. In order to reduce this interval, several hormonal treatments have been put on the market, in which cloprostenol, a synthetic analogue of prostaglandin F2 (PGF2). Is it better than the `normal` spontaneous oestrus? An interesting study on more than 500 dairy cows from Italy.
Immune response of the mucosa in cattle with subclinical Johne´s disease
Mycobacterium avium subsp. paratuberculosis is the causative agent of Johne`s disease, a chronic granulomatous enteritis of wild and domestic ruminants. During a long subclinical period, the organism persists in the intestine despite systemic cellular and humoral immune responses. What exactly happens in the mucosa over this period? It seems like a state of tolerance...
Lymphocyte alterations in horses with COPD
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a common problem in horses all over the world. Many causes have already be identified, and also a number of laboratory findings in these patients have been described. This is a very interesting study evaluating the alterations in lymphocyte subsets as well in the peripheral blood as in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) and in pulmonary biopsy frozen tissue sections.
Adjunctive doxorubicin in feline mammary gland tumors
Mammary gland tumors in cats are rare compared with other species e.g. dogs - but if they are diagnosed they tend to be highly malignant. The therapy of choice is surgical removal as soon as possible. Does doxorubicin improve the prognosis? A very interesting retrospective study...
First case of pig meningitis case found in New York
Streptococcus suis is the causative pathogen for pig meningitis and is transmittable to humans through handling pigs and pork. Farmers and butchers are the predominate victims of the disease. Now Dr. Ruth Zadoks from the Cornell University recently helped identify three different strains of pig meningitis in the first documented North American case that occurred last year.
Bronchiolitis Obliterans?organizing Pneumonia in Beagle Dogs
An interesting case report: what happens in the airways of dogs after an accidental intra-airway exposure with pure oleic acid? It produces a bronchiolitis obliterans and bronchopneumonia - a reaction pattern which is uncommon in the dog, but closely resembling human bronchiolitis obliterans–organizing pneumonia (BOOP).
Gonadectomy-induced Adrenocortical Neoplasia in the Domestic Ferret
Ferrets have become very popular pets over the last few years and so are more and more seen in the small animal practice. These animals have some very special diseases, like adrenocortcial neoplasias leading to cushing-like signs. But who exspects that such a neoplasia can be induced by castration? A fascinating review article!
First case of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE) in Sweden
BSE is a worldwide disease that had never been reported in Sweden although also this country runs routine BSE tests. As soon as the suspicion was raised due to the positive rapid test, the 50 animals in the herd in Vastmanland were put under restrictions.
Enteropathogenicity of a new E. coli serotype O8 in young piglets
Preweaning colibacillosis is a major cause of economic loss to the swine industry in Vietnam and other countries. So in this study the enteropathogenicity of representative enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (ETEC) strains obtained during an earlier epidemiologic survey conducted in five provinces in North Vietnam was examined. Very interesting not only for Vietnam because these bacteria are very aggressive!
Transpelvic urethrostomy (TPU) in cats - long-term results
Obstructions of the lower urinary tracts are common in cats, especially in male cats, and they often need surgical intervention. Is this new technique which is a modified subpubic urethrostomy technique a feasible alternative with acceptable long-term results? A very interesting prospective clinical study from France.
Chronic wasting disease - new insights
Chronic wasting disease (CWD) remains a unique transmissible spongiform encephalopathy (TSE) of mule deer (Odocoileus hemionus), white-tailed deer (O. virginianus), and Rocky Mountain elk (Cervus elaphus nelsoni). Very interesting new insights from the pathologists´point of view.
Severe fresh outbreak of swine fever in South Africa
Classical swine fever is currently not only a problem in certain regions of Germany but also in the Eastern Cape region. Although the disease is not dangerous for men, an outbreak means severe economical problems. The Eastern Cape agriculture authorities even admitted that they don`t know whether they are winning the fight against swine fever.
Pulmonary embolization of vascular occlusion coils in dogs with patent ductus arteriosus
A common side effect or not - this is a very important question because this potentially fatal side effect of course needs to be discussed with the owners before the transcatheter coil embolization is performed. But data on more than 200 dogs show: about 3% show this side effect, it is not a common problem.
Perioperative survival rates after surgery for diaphragmatic hernia in dogs and cats
Diaphragmatic hernias are common emergencies in small animal practices and clinics. Is it important to do surgery immediately or can this procedure become determined to a later time? The results of this study are clear: the chances are much better when the surgery is performed within 24 hours after admission - and this fact needs to be discussed with the owner of the affected animal...
Results of vulvoplasty in 34 dogs with recessed vulva
A common problem especially in large and obese dogs: a recessed vulva causing problems like intertrigo, chronic urinary tract infections, pollakisuria etc. Not all owners accept to clean the area one to several times a day. Are they satisfied with the results when they decided to have vulvoplasty done? The majority (82 %) in this retrospective study is...
Increased number of human rabies infections in Beijing
Beijing has seen a gradual increase in rabies cases in recent years due to the increase of pet cats and dogs raised by citizens. In this case, a 37 year old lady was bitten by her own non rabies-vaccinated puppy and died 6 weeks later. Su Bogu, deputy director of the Emergency Treatment
Department of the China-Japan Friendship Hospital in Beijing, urged health authorities to improve public awareness of the disease.
Prevalence of major vector-borne pathogens in Spanish dogs
Vector-borne diseases like dirofilariosis, ehrlichiosis, leishmaniasis, borreliosis, bartonellosis and babesiosis are common especially in southern Europe. How many dogs are really infected in those endemic regions? A very interesting question and a very interesting study!
Bird flu reaches the 4th German state
A wild duck and a swan [species?!] found dead near the Polish border have tested positive for bird flu, marking the apparent spread of the H5N1 virus into a 4th state in Europe`s biggest economy, officials said on 25 Feb 2006.
Syrian hamster with helicobacter infection as a model for inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)
Helicobacter in men is causing a variety of gastrointestinal tract diseases, and still its role in immune-mediated diseases like IBD remains not clear. This very interesting study shows that aging Syrian hamsters with naturally occuring helicobacter infection could act as a model for the human disease.
First gastric carcinoid in a cat
An old cat with chronic vomitus and chronic renal failure. Nothing else to diagnose?! Not in this cat: it was suffering from a gastric carcinoid, and the complete excision stopped the vomitus immediately, but unfortunately did not improve the kidney function. A very interesting case description!
Two different inactivated vaccines for prevention of Rhodococcus equi pneumonia in foals
Not too common but very dramatically: Rhodococcus equi pneumonia in young foals. This interesting study from Hungary evaluates the efficacy of two different vaccines applied to the pregnant mares. One of the results: It seems more promising to vaccinate the foals instead of the mothers.
Canadian officials report to the last case of mad cow disease (BSE)
The newest case of mad-cow disease in Canada reportedly did not enter the food or feed systems. The 6-year-old animal from central Alberta was tested positive for bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE) in late January, according to the Canadian Food Inspection Agency.
Clinical suitability of medetomidine-propofol infusions in horses
Medetomidine-propofol-combinations are very popular in different species at the moment. Is this combination also a good choice to reach total intravenous anaesthesia in horses? The Equine Clinic of the University of Zurich studied the effects in 50 horses. The results are very interesting.
Accurate prediction of the parturition date in dogs
Many dog owners or breeders want to know the parturition date of their bitch as precise as possible. Unfortunately, the length of gestation is highly variable when measured from the day of mating, thus prediction of parturition may be greatly inaccurate when determined from this point. This brandnew study from Italy can be of enormous help: The colleagues found a precise method to determine the exact date via ultrasound measurements.
Low dose insemination of mares with non-sorted versus sex-sorted sperm
Mares are generally inseminated with 500 million progressively motile fresh sperm and approximately 1 billion total sperms that have been cooled or frozen. If the low-dose insemination technique is effective, much more mares can profit from such a semen portion. A very informative study!
Percutaneous endoscopic versus surgically placed gastrostomy tubes
Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) tubes are very popular in human medicine but less in small animal medicine. If a gastrostomy tube is indicated, it is placed surgically in most dogs and cats. Is it really necessary, and how are the complications if both techniques are compared? A very interesting study performed on nearly 100 patients.
Dietary hyperparathyroidism in a herd of Andalusian horses
Hyperparathyroidism is a rare phenomenon in equine practice. In this article, a complete herd showed signs of a secondary hyperparathyroidism due to a mineral imbalance in the diet (low calcium and high phosphorus intake). All age groups were affected - even a three week-old suckling foal showed severe problems.
American Association of Swine Veterinarians aims for PRRS eradication
PRRS (porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome) remains a disease which causes enormous costs every year: as the American Association of Swine Veterinarians (AASV) estimates the disease costs the industry $560 million annually. Now the society adopted a position statement reaffirming its war on the disease...
Results of Right-Sided Prophylactic Gastropexy Via a Grid Approach
Gastric torsion remains a common problem in certain dog breeds and still belongs to the most common reasons for death. Many dog owners ask for prophylactic surgery to protect their pet. Is this minimalinvasive technique not only quick and easy but also effective? It seems so.
PK and PK/PD of doxycycline in drinking water of pigs
Doxycycline is a popular antibiotic very effective against the most porcine bacterial pathogens like Pasteurella, Mycoplasma etc. It can also be administered via drinking water. But does it reach a sufficient plasma concentration in all animals? An important question!
Medetomidine-propofol-combination in dogs
It has become a popular combination in the last years: medetomidine plus propofol. Various protocols are described. Here is one which has been shown as a safe combination of anesthetic drugs together with atropine...
Tritrichomonas foetus colitis in cats - the histologic features
Colitis is a common problem especially in young cats which are allowed to go outdoors. Endoparasites are a very commmon reason, including Tritrichomonas foetus. But this parasite is much harder to diagnose. Sometimes only in mucosal biopsies which show interesting features.
Recurrent UTIs in dogs - which underlying diseases are important?
Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are common in dogs, and often there is a primary disease which predisposes to this problem and needs to be corrected or treated. Dogs with endocrine diseases, especially with hyperadrenocorticism, diabetes mellitus or both, are on very high risk -and urinary cultures on a regular base are highly recommended since the urinalysis often is normal!
Dietary carnitine supplementation to prevent hepatic lipidosis in cats
Hepatic lipidosis in obese cats is a common and potential life-threatening problem. This interesting study tries to find out whether the fat metabolism in obese cats could be changed by carnitine and if it may reduce the risk for hepatic lipidosis. A very important study which shows that carnitine supplementation should be considered as a prevention in cats `at risk`!
Radiography and histology of the centrodistal tarsal joint of Icelandic horses
Osteoarthrosis (OA) in the distal tarsal joints, bone spavin, is a common problem in Icelandic horses which are 6-12 years old. This very interesting study determines nature, location and age of appearance of early radiographic and histological changes in the centrodistal tarsal joint (CD) of young Icelandic horses.
Urinary tract infections caused by Corynebacterium urealyticum
Urinary tract infections are seen in small animal practice on a routine and every day base. Corynebacterium urealyticum as the causing bacterium is fairly unknown. How common is this bacterium, which clinical signs can be exspected, how is it treated best? Very important informations are collected in this brandnew article!
Florfenical is the first approved drug under MUMS
Aquaculture has become an important economic factor. Unfortunately, there are not too many drugs licensed for the use in fishes. Recently, florfenical has been designated for use in controlling conditions in four aquaculture species (catfish, hybrid striped bass, salmonids and tilapia) and was recently approved by the Food and Drug Administration.
New perineural injection technique for the lateral palmar nerve in horses
Perineural injection is commonly indicated in the diagnosis of lameness in horses. Unfortunately, the perineural injection of the lateral palmar nerve can lead to inadvertent injection into the carpal synovial sheath, even by experienced veterinarians. This new technique seems to be much safer!
Diagnosis of deep digital flexor tendonitis via MRI in standing horses
Lameness due to tendonitis of the deep digital flexor tendon is rather common but often very difficult to diagnose, if at all. High-field Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has been described to be a good diagnostic option. What about low-field MRI in the standing patient, a technique which does not require general anesthesia? The results of this study seem very promising!
Meningoencephalitis tuberculosa resembling BSE in a Holstein cow
A very interesting case report has recently been published by a Turkish colleague: A 4 year-old Holstein cow showing clinical signs of BSE did suffer from tuberculosis, as the pathologists were able to prove.
Mammary gland changes in sows with relapsing MMA
MMA (Mastitis Metritis Agalactia) is a common problem in sows, and unfortunately animals which have once suffered from this syndrom tend to relapses after the next pregnancy. What happens within the mammary glands of these animals? A very interesting, recently published study from Switzerland.
Three Chinese people have bird flu virus infection
After two cases were confirmed - a woman who died and a boy who recovered - dozens of Chinese farmers and villagers who came in contact with them have shown no signs of the disease and have been released from medical observation, according to the official Xinhua News Agency.
Fascia lata autografts to repair urethral defects in dogs
Urethral defects are sometimes seen in small animal practice, often due to trauma. Which technique is quick and effective to close such defects? Fascia lata autografts seem to be a good choice, as this new experimental study from Turkey shows.
Effects of phenobarbital on thyroid and liver function
Phenobarbital is the drug of choice for control of canine epilepsy. Phenobarbital induces hepatic enzyme activity, can be hepatotoxic, and decreases serum thyroxine (T4) concentrations in some dogs. When are blood checks of thyroid and liver functions reliable? A very interesting study!
Funisitis associated with leptospiral infection in a horse
Funisitis, inflammation of the umbilical cord, is well recognized in human placentas and not very common in horses. And Leptospira infections in horses are well-known to be involved in chronic eye infections. A very informative case report of a funisitis associated with leptospiral infection in the placenta of a Thoroughbred foal born prematurely.
S-Adenosyl-L-Methionine (SAMe) as antidote in acetaminophen toxicity
Intoxications are commonly seen in the emergency care units, and mostly young dogs are affected. Not always are antidots available. This interesting case report documents that S-Adenosyl-L-Methionine (SAMe) is an effective therapeutic option in acetaminophen toxicity.
Chronic or recurrent UTI in dogs - review of 383 cases
Chronic or recurrent urinary tract infections (UTI) are a common problem in dogs, caused by a variety of reasons. This large study gives interesting new input, e.g. the most commonly isolated bacteria and the most prevalent breeds. Very informative!
Susceptibility of Porcine Embryos to Classical Swine Fever Virus
A very interesting question: Is there a difference in suspectibility of embryos to classic swine fever virus, if they are either in vitro or in vivo produced? It seems so, as this brandnew German study shows. Still further in vivo tests are necessary to confirm these results.
Malignant craniopharyngioma in two cats: histopathological findings
Malignant craniopharyngiomad are rare neoplasias which are described in different animal species. This recently published case report describes the unique histopathological findings of this neoplasia. Very interesting!
Systolic failure in two Great Danes with hypothyroidism
A very interesting case report: two Great Danes with heart problems which had concurrent hypothyroidism - a common problem in large and giant breeds. But a differential diagnosis that needs to be considered in all patients with heart probems!
Acute granulocytic ehrlichiosis in a dog (case report)
Acute granulocytic ehrlichiosis is not too rare in dogs. But did you know that it can resemble an acute pancreatitis? A very interesting case report that has been published recently!
Congenital ectopic ureters without urinary incontinence
Congenital ectopic ureters are sometimes seen in both dogs and cats. In most cases, urinary incontinence is the owner´s chief complaint and the reason for consulting a veterinarian. But there are also at least one male dog and one male cat without this sign, as this very interesting case report shows!
Atresia ani in dogs
Large animal practitioners see this congenital anomaly sometimes in piglets. In dogs, atresia ani is very rare. This interesting retrospective study gives interesting informations concerning this problem in dogs. Did you know that females are overrepresented and that especially toy poodles and Boston terriers belong to the breeds at risk?
Laryngeal paralysis in cats
Laryngeal paralysis is a well-known problem in certain dog breeds, espcially in animals with hypothyroidism. But the problem also occurs in cats, and the disease seems to be more common than previously thought. A very interesting summary of 16 cases!
Bacteremia in dogs with gastric volvulus
Gastric volvulus is a common and life-threatening emergency in small animal medicine. Much is known about the best surgical and parasurgical procedures. But what about antibacterial therapy? Nearly fifty percent of the patients have positive blood cultures, a fact that needs to be considered in therapy!
Intestinal Mucinous Adenocarcinoma in a Dog (case report)
Chronic vomiting in an older dog with the presumed diagnosis intestinal neoplasia - this seems to be a `routine` case. But the laparatomy revealed surprising findings: an invasive mucinous adenocarcinoma affecting multiple organs. Very interesting case!
Endoscopic retrograde cholangio-pancreatography in dogs - possible or not?
Endoscopic retrograde cholangio-pancreatography is a diagnostic method which is used in human medicine. Is it also possible to assess the common bile duct and the accessory pancreatic duct after retrograde filling with an iodine contrast medium in dogs? This question was investigated at the University of Helsinki. And, yes, it works - at least in healthy beagles.
Do dogs with gastric dilatation benefit from metoclopramide therapy?
Gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV) is a disorder characterized by delayed gastric emptying. Is metoclopramide, a putative gastroprokinetic agent, a `must have` for dogs that had recovered from GDV? An interesting an very important question in every day-practice!
Incidence and breed-related risk factors of gastric dilatation/volvulus
It is well known that large and giant breeds especially those with deep chests are prone to develop dilatation-volvulus (GDV). This large study (nearly 2000 dogs) evaluated incidence of and breed-related risk factors for this life-threatening disease among 11 dog breeds and got very interesting results.
Spontaneous gastroduodenal perforations - clinical signs
Which signs would you exspect in an animal with spontaneous gastroduodenal perforation? Shock and anemia? The majority of the 23 animals included in this study did not show shock symptoms but peritonitis and/or acute abdomen, and Rottweilers seem to be an overrespresented breed. A very informative study!
Luteinizing hormone and `Cushing` in neutered ferrets
Hyperadrenocorticism is not only a problem in horses and in dogs, but also in ferrets. But in contrast to the other species, there are some special things to consider in the pathogenesis of the disease in ferrets. Very interesting!
Surgical therapy of chylothorax via omentalization
`The omentum is the surgeon´s friend` - but it is surprising that this friend is also an effective help in the surgical therapy of a chylothorax! At least in the cat which is described in this case report...
Mycoplasma-induced respiratory diseases in dogs and cats
Mycoplasma spp. are known as primary pathogens in some species like rabbits. But they were believed to be only secondary in dogs and cats. Is this really true? This retrospective study identified Mycoplasma spp. as a primary pathogen a number of respiratory problems in dogs and cats!
Cervical expanding hematomas in five littermates
Cervical expanding hematomas have been described in men but are at least very uncommon in dogs. This interesting case report described five pupies of the same litter with the same problem which could be treated with very good results...
Recurrent spontaneous lung lobe torsion in a dog
Spontaneous torsion of a lung lobe is sometimes seen in animals, and the etiology is not completely clear. But normally a given dog is only affected once in its life - this case report describes a pug which seems to be the first described dog with recurrent spontaneous lung lobe torsion!
Hemoptysis in dogs - the most common reasons
Hemoptysis is not too common in small animals, but when this dramatic sign is seen, the animals are almost always seen in the emergency service. So it is important to know what the most common reasons for this problem are. This retrospective study including 36 dogs gives very interesting and surprising informations. For example, bacterial bronchopneumonia and neoplasia occured in more dogs than rodenticide poisoning or immune-mediated thrombocytopenia, and the thoracic X-rays were abnormal in all animals and should therefore be performed in every patient with hemoptysis!
Novel diagnostic method in systemic Mycobacterium avium infection in a dog
Mycobacterium avium, bovis and tuberculosis can cause infections in dogs and are often hard to diagnose or even to differentiate. In this case, Mycobacterium avium was identified by a very modern diagnostic method, a polymerase chain reaction which identifies the nuclear acids of the organism. Not the diagnostic method was surprising but the material: a buffy-coat preparation!
Ultrasound as diagnostic tool in laryngeal paralysis of dogs
Naturally occuring laryngeal paralysis is more and more diagnosed in dogs over the last couple years. Unfortunately, the diagnosis is not always easy to make and many anesthetics produce either false-positive or false-negative results if laryngoscopy if performed. Is ultrasound, a quick and non-invasive diagnostic method, helpful to detect patients which do not show clinical signs?
Non-dietary risk factors for gastric dilatation/volvulus
Gastric volvulus still is one of the most common reason for (sudden) death of large and giant breeds. Many owners of dogs on risk ask for preventive strategies. As this study demonstrates, there are some easy but effective things to do: for example, avoid raised feeding bowls!
Piroxicam in transitional cell carcinoma of the canine bladder
Transitional cell carcinomas of the urinary bladder sometimes occur especially in older dogs. Often they are nonresecatable. Is piroxicam, a nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug, a therapy that can be recommended?
Reintroduction of the recalled heartworm preventive Proheart 6?
Some months ago, the producer of the moxidectin-containing Proheart 6, Fort Dodge Animal Health, recalled the drug voluntarily due to an increase in adverse-reaction reporting. Now the company vows to work with the FDA to get it back on the market. The Veterinary Medicine Advisory Committee is split...
Percutaneous drainage of prostatic abscesses - quick and effective
Prostatic abscesses are sometimes diagnosed in dogs, especially in middle-aged or older animals. There are various techniques described, e.g. marsupialisation. This study from Italy shows an interesting therapeutic alternative: percutaneous ultrasound guided drainage is quick, less invasive and shows low postoperative complication rates!
Number of intestinal mast cells in healthy and IBD dogs
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) remains still one of the diseases with poorly understood pathogenesis. A team from Switzerland tried evaluated the total number of mast cells as well as the expression of IgE and Interleukin-4 in healthy and affected dogs. One of the interesting findings: hypersensitivity to bacterial or dietary-derived antigens in the intestinal lumen seems to play a key role in pathogenesis.
Inflammatory bowel disease and thrombocytopenia
Thrombocytopenia in dogs has a lot of different reasons. Could inflammatory bowel disease (IFB) be another one to consider? This disease shows commonly extraintestinal manifestations in humans, but what about dogs? Extraintestinal signs of IBD are poorly documented in companion animals...
Are Mycoplasma spp. primary pathogens in dogs and cats?
Mycoplasma spp. is recognized as a primary cause of respiratory disease in several species, including humans. But not much is known about their pathogenicity in small animals. This study might change our point of view!
Who knows Porphyromonas gulae, salivosa and denticani?
Up to 80 percent of the dogs develop peridontal diseases sometimes in their live, and these three kinds of bacteria are often involved in the disease process and often also damage internal organs. A new study gives also other very interesting insights in an old problem that probably requires new treatment strategies!
How useful are X-rays after blunt thorax trauma?
This question was evaluated in a large retrospective study including more than 150 dogs and cats with blunt thorax trauma. The results are surprising.
Increasing frequency of calcium oxalate uroliths in cats
In a big study including nine veterinary teaching hospitals in the USA the frequency of calcium oxalate uroliths in cats over 20 years was evaluated. The alarming result: the number of cats with upper urinary tract uroliths increased more than 10-fold during the study period...
Percutaneous drainage of liver abscesses in small animals
Hepatic abscesses are rare and difficult to diagnose in dogs and cats. Ultrasonographic examination is essential to thoroughly examine hepatic abnormalities, and it may also help in the localization of hepatic abscesses. Also the treatment of these abscesses, once diagnosed, can be very difficult. Percutaneous drainage as descriced in this brandnew article seems a very good option.
Fibromyalgia in horses: an unknown disease
Fibromyalgia in men is an important but often misdiagnosed disease. The same is true for horses: many veterinarians do not even know that this disease exists. In this excellent summary, clinical signs are listed.
Proteinuria in dogs: a diagnostic update
Proteinuria in dogs is commonly seen and should always be diagnosed carefully since it can be an early indicator for impaired renal function. This excellent article gives an overview about the current recommended diagnostic procedure, including an evaluation of a new inhouse labaratory test.
Chronic expanding hematoma-like disease in five puppies
Chronic expanding hematomas are rarely seen in humans and fairly unknown in dogs. This very interesting case report from France describes five puppies with a similar history, similar clinical signs and the same response to surgical therapy. Cervical expanding hematomas might be more common than previously thought.
Secondary hypercalcemia due to iatrogenic Cushing in a cat
Cats are known to have a much higher corticosteroid-tolerance than other species, especially dogs. But it is also possible to cause severe metabolic aberrations with chronic parenteral corticosteroid applications in this species, as this very impressive case report shows.
Causes of retroperitoneal effusions in dogs and cats
Retroperitoneal effusions (RPE) in dogs are rarely described and thought to be caused by adrenal neoplasia. But there are reasons to consider, as this recently published retrospective study shows: acute renal failure for example is much more common...
The colicking foal : the most common reasons
Foals with acute signs of colic are often extremely difficult to handle and it might be hard to evaluate and treat the reason for the problem. In this excellent summary the most common reasons for abdominal pain in these young patients are summarized.
Percutaneous ultrasound-guided drainage of prostatic abscesses and cysts
Prostatic abscesses and/or cysts are common and sometimes life-threatening problems especially in middle-aged and older dogs. This article describes a new, effective and well tolerated technique as an alternative to surgery in the treatment of these problems.
Gastric Outflow Obstruction After Ingestion of an Industrial-Strength Wood Glue in a Dog
Ingestion of foreign bodies happens very often in dogs, leading to obstruction of the gastric outflow and requiring surgery in the majority of the cases. This case report describes an uncommon foreign body, but it seems to be more common than previously thought: the ASPCA reports 14 of these cases.
UTI caused by candida spp. in dogs and cats
Urinary tract infections are commonly diagnosed in small animal practice, but the majority of them is caused by bacteria. What does animals predispose to get yeast infections? This interesting question is answered by the results of this retrospective study in 20 animals.
New surgical technique for rectovaginal fistulas in horses
Postpartal rectovaginal fistulas in horses are sometimes seen and require surgical intervention. This new technique, using a vaginal mucosal pedicle flap, was developed at the University of Leipzig, Germany. It seems a very useful alternative to the established surgical techniques, and one mare foaled subsequently without complications.
New promising kidney transplant program at Auburn University
The new canine kidney transplant protocol of the Auburn UniversityÂ’s College of Veterinary Medicine offers two big advantages: it promotes increased tolerance of transplanted organs between unrelated dogs and also offers the possibility that the transplant recipients may not be required to take high-doses of immunosuppressive drugs for the rest of their lives.
Reasons for nontraumatic hemoabdomen in dogs
Acute hemoabdomen in dogs is one of the frequently seen emergencies especially in referring and emregency clinics. Commonly, there is a history of trauma. But which reasons have to be concerned in cases of nontraumatic hemoabdomen? This very interesting retrospective study lists the diagnoses of 39 cases.
Pancreatic adenocarcinomas in cats
Pancreatic adenoacarcinomas are not very common but have an extremely poor prognosis. What are the most common clinical signs, and how are the tumors best diagnosed? This case series gives some clues.
Anal sac adenocarcinoma: treatment with radiotherapy plus mitoxantrone
Canine anal sac adenocarcinoma (ASAC) is thought to be a rare but highly malignant tumour. Is surgery followed by radiotherapy and mitoxantrone the therapy of choice? At least the median overall survival time was 956 days in the 15 dogs of this retrospecticve study...
Diet-related risk for gastric dilatation/volvulus (GDV)
Gastric torsion is a common and life-threatening emergency occuring especially in large dogs. Even if diagnosed and treated properly the mortality is rather high. Prevention is very important. Which effect has the diet?
Diagnosis of urolith composition via CT
Canine urolithiasis is a common problem and the composition of the uroliths determines the therapy. In this study, the in vitro diagnosis of the urolith composition is tried by CT. The results: at least the three most common types can be differentiated in vitro.
Albumin replacement in the critically ill veterinary patient
Albumin is one of the most important proteins in the body maintaining diverse vital functions. In human medicine, much is known about hypoalbuminemia, its reasons and therapy. This excellent review article gives the key informations about hypoalbuminemia available in veterinary medicine and describes when and how albumin supplementation should be performed.
Ileal impaction: a life-threatening cause of colic
Colics in horses occur due to a variety of reasons. Recently a new publication from the USA describes ileal impaction as an uncommon but very dangerous cause of colic. Interestingly the researchers noted regional differences possibly associated with tapeworms or the kind of hay which was fed.
Oral recombinant vaccine in therapy-resistant oral papillomatosis
Oral papillomatosis in young dogs is a self-limiting disease in most cases. Surgery is recommended if no spontaneous resolution is seen. But what if both does not work? The use of subcutaneous vaccines is no longer recommended because of the risk of squameous cell carcinomas at the injection site. Does an oral vaccine work?
Radical mastectomy in goats and cows
Gangrenous mastitis, often due to delta toxine producing streptococci, is one of the nightmares of goat owners. Surgical intervention is recommended, but less was published concerning survival rates and complications after therapy. This study from Cornell University evaluates radical mastectomy as a well tolerated and recommendable surgical method.
Transitional cell carcinoma in dogs - update in diagnosis and therapy
Transitional cell carcinoma (TCC) is the most common urinary tract tumor in dogs and research suggests that it may becoming more common. The main differential diagnosis and also the most common `misdiagnosis` is chronic recurrent cystitis. This excellent article gives an overview of the current diagnostic and therapeutic options.
Metabolism, pharmacokinetics and toxicology of clenbuterol in horses
Clenbuterol is a standard medication in equine medicine, mainly used in pulmonary disorders. Therefore, one should be familiar with the pharmacological aspects of this drug. One of the results: There is a 100-fold urine/plasma difference for this substance!
Feline hemangiosarkoma of the third eyelid
In this case report, a 15-year-old Domestic Short-haired cat is described. A small red mass protruding from the anterior surface of the third eyelid in the left eye was present. The clinical signs were non-diagnostic, the surgical therapy was curative.
Osteosarcoma in dogs - current treatment protocols
Osteosarcoma (OSA) is the most common primary bone tumor in dogs, affecting mainly young adult to middle aged dogs of large breeds. Which diagnostic steps are the next and are there other therapeutic options besides amputation of the limb? This excellent article covers all current therapies. But before choosing a treatment plan for canine OSA, complete tumor staging is warranted to determine which options are most reasonable.
Pericardial effusion - cave lymphosarcoma
Pericardial effusion (PE) is in the list of differential diagnoses when a patient presents with weakness or collapse, weak pulses and muffled heart sounds. Many differentials must be considered, but this recently published study shows that one should never forget to put cardiac or pericardial lymphosarcoma on the list of differentials...
Effects of clomipramine on thyroid function
Several drugs have been reported to alter thyroid function tests in dogs, e.g. glucocorticoids, potentiated sulfonamides and anticonvulsants. Clomipramine is a potent serotonin reuptake-blocker that is becoming very popular in veterinary medicine. After this study, also clomipramine should be added to this list.
Laparoscopic Ultrasound in the Evaluation of Abdominal Structures in the Horse
Transcutaneous ultrasonography is considered as a very valuable tool in examining abdominal organs in horses but has several anatomical limits. The utilization of a laparoscopic ultrasound probe using minimal invasive methods (like in human medicine) is documented in this report.
Prostate cancer - higher risk for castrated dogs?
In many small animal practices, owners are recommended to have male dogs castrated also because of the decreased risk to develop prostate cancer. This study performed on 70 dogs with prostate cancer shows opposite results!
Lifestyle factors taking influence on the prevalence of allergies in children
The prevalence of allergic diseases has increased rapidly in recent decades, particularly in children. For adequate prevention it is important not only to identify risk factors, but also possible protective factors. A very interesting study from the PARSIFAL group!
