ABSTRACT
In this study we describe the occurrence of hematological disorders in bitches with mammary neoplasm and analyze the possibility that alterations present can be used as a diagnostic parameter and prognosis. Two hundred and forty-six dogs with mammary neoplasms (123 with malignant and 123 with benign mammary tumor) and the same number of female dogs without mammary tumors were investigated for observation of hematologic abnormalities. The full blood test and measurement of proteins was carried out before any treatment for breast tumor. The diagnosis of mammary neoplasm was done by histopathology. Few animals with benign tumors had hematological disorders, but in malignant neoplasm the prevalence was 55%, and thrombocytosis, hyperproteinemia (hypergammaglobulinemia) and leucopenia (neutropenia) were the most prevalent abnormalities. Anemia and erythrocytosis had equilibrated occurrence (22 and 21%, respectively). Leukocytosis and thrombocytopenia were less hematologic changes observed. We concluded that because of the high prevalence of thrombocytosis, leukopenia and hyperproteinemia (hypergammaglobulinemia) in bitches bearing mammary tumors, the hematological abnormalities may be signaling of malignant neoplasm.
ABSTRACT
To help understand why there is a prevalence of canine distemper in Brazil, we interviewed 404 owners of dogs that were in clinics or veterinary hospitals about distemper. Our results showed that 80.4% of respondents knew about distemper and 67.6% knew that it is a severe and fatal disease. Approximately 50.9% knew that distemper can be prevented by the use of the vaccine, but 60.9% did not know about distemper vaccines. Our results show that the lack of knowledge and, consequently, the lack of vaccination against distemper may be the most important factors in the endemic presence of distemper in Brazil.