Detection and identification of Toxoplasma gondii type one infection in sheep aborted fetuses in Qazvin province of Iran

The aim of this study was to apply the nested-PCR and bioassay methods in detection and genotyping of Toxoplasma gondii infection in provided sheep aborted fetus samples from Qazvin Province of Iran. Eighteen sheep aborted fetal samples were studied by nested-PCR-RFLP, histopathological observation and microbiological assay. Bioassay in mice was carried out by inoculating the brain samples intraperitoneally. The results demonstrated the frequency of 66% infected sheep aborted fetal samples with T. gondii type one. Although we could not isolate any parasite from inoculated mice even after three passages, but it was confirmed histopathologically formation of cyst like bodies in prepared mice brain sections. The results of the performed nested-PCR and formation of brain cyst in inoculated mice exhibited that T. gondii type one infection might be considered as one of the major causative agents for abortion in ewes

Concurrent occurrence of malignant melanoma and amyloidosis in a horse

In a 16-year-old mare of mixed breed, with gray coat, which was used for 2 years for production of polyvalent anti-snake antiserum, some nodules appeared on the underside of the tail and perineum. The animal gradually became weakened and showed weight loss and eventually, was euthanatized. Based on necropsy findings and histopathologic examination, affection to malignant melanoma was confirmed. By applying Congo red for detection of amyloidosis, deposition of amyloid within the wall of arterioles of spleen and a small amount inside the hepatocytes were observed

Histopathological features in a horse on repeated injections of polyvalent snake venom

A 7-year-old stallion was bought for production of polyvalent snake antiserum. The animal died in less than two months from the beginning, of weakly injection with an increasing concentration of polyvalent snake venom. In histopathological examination, severe necrosis of renal tubules [nephrosis] and portal sclerosis with necrosis of hepatocytes were observed. In the myocardium, thrombosis in small arteries, concurrent necrosis and fibrosis, as well as arteriosclerotic changes inside a coronary artery were observed. In the lung, there were severe congestion and hemorrhage. Moreover, destruction of alveolar walls caused marked emphysema