Immunoexpression of IL-33 in the different clinical aspects of canine atopic dermatitis.

Canine atopic dermatitis (CAD) is a chronic and inflammatory skin condition with a multifaceted origin, involving genetic factors, skin barrier abnormalities, immune responses, and hypersensitivity to various allergens. Interleukin 33 (IL-33), released by keratinocytes upon cellular injury, plays a crucial role in atopic dermatitis pathogenesis by inducing Th2 lymphocyte-mediated immune responses. This study aimed to evaluate IL-33 expression in dogs with atopic dermatitis and compare it to a control group. Forty-nine dogs were included, with 39 having atopic dermatitis, subdivided into groups based on clinical characteristics, and ten in the control group. Lesion and pruritus scores were assessed, and incisional biopsies were analyzed for dermatopathological characteristics. IL-33 expression was evaluated using immunohistochemistry, the analyses were blinded, based on the measurement of immunostaining areas using Image Pro-Plus software, version 4.5, relying on a semi-automatic color segmentation method, where the tissue immunostaining area for each biomarker was artificially delimited and quantified. Statistically significant differences in IL-33 immunostaining were found among groups (P=0.0005). Lichenified dogs (group 4) exhibited higher immunostaining compared to erythema (group 3) (P=0.0006), alesional pruritus (group 2) (P=0.0261), and the control group (group 1) (P=0.0079). IL-33 immunostaining increased with lesion progression, strongly correlating with lesion scores (P<0.0001), particularly in patients with chronic lesions characterized by erythema and lichenification. These findings suggest IL-33's significant role in canine atopic dermatitis pathogenesis and its association with lesion and inflammation scores during the chronic phase. This suggests potential therapeutic interventions targeting IL-33 or its receptors, though further studies are needed to explore these possibilities.

Intralesional amphotericin B in a cat with cutaneous protothecosis.

A domestic cat was presented with nodular lesions on the nose/muzzle and pinnae. Protothecosis was diagnosed through cytological and histopathological examination, and culture. Molecular identification confirmed Prototheca wickerhamii infection. Intralesional application of amphotericin B in conjunction with oral terbinafine resulted in a significant reduction of the nasal lesion and complete resolution of the pinnal lesion, without adverse effects.

Un chat domestique est présenté avec des lésions nodulaires sur le nez/museau et le pavillon auriculaire. La protothécose est diagnostiquée par un examen cytologique et histopathologique, ainsi que par une culture. L'identification moléculaire confirme l'infection par Prototheca wickerhamii. L'application intralésionnelle d'amphotéricine B, associée à la terbinafine orale, permet une réduction significative de la lésion nasale et une résolution complète de la lésion du pavillon auriculaire, sans effets indésirables.

Um gato doméstico foi apresentado com lesões nodulares no nariz/focinho e pavilhões auriculares. Prototecose foi diagnosticada por exame citológico e histopatológico, e cultura. A identificação molecular confirmou a infecção por Prototheca wickerhamii. Aplicação intralesional de anfotericina B associada à terbinafina por via oral resultou em redução significativa da lesão nasal e resolução total da lesão na orelha, sem efeitos adversos.

Un gato doméstico se presentó con lesiones nodulares en la nariz/hocico y orejas. Se diagnosticó prototecosis mediante examen citológico, histopatológico y cultivo. La identificación molecular confirmó la infección por Prototheca wickerhamii. La aplicación intralesional de anfotericina B junto con terbinafina oral dio como resultado una reducción significativa de la lesión nasal y una resolución completa de la lesión auricular, sin efectos adversos.

Therapeutic efficacy of isavuconazole and potassium iodide in a cat with refractory sporotrichosis.

A seven-month-old, male, domestic short-hair cat was presented with nodular and ulcerative lesions, as well as respiratory signs, caused by Sporothrix brasiliensis infection. Owing to lack of response to oral itraconazole and potassium iodide, isavuconazole was substituted for itraconazole, leading to clinical cure after three months of treatment without adverse effects.

Un chat domestique mâle à poil court de 7 mois est présenté avec des lésions nodulaires et ulcéreuses, ainsi que des signes respiratoires, causés par une infection à Sporothrix brasiliensis. En raison de l'absence de réponse à l'itraconazole oral et à l'iodure de potassium, l'isavuconazole est substitué à l'itraconazole, ce qui conduit à une guérison clinique après 3 mois de traitement sans effets indésirables.

Um gato doméstico de pelo curto de sete meses de idade foi apresentado com lesões nodulares e ulcerativas, bem como sintomas respiratórios, causados por infecção por Sporothrix brasiliensis. Devido à pobre resposta ao tratamento com itraconazol oral e iodeto de potássio, itraconazol foi substituído por isavuconazol, levando à cura clínica após três meses de tratamento, sem efeitos adversos.

Un gato doméstico de pelo corto, macho, de 7 meses de edad, se presentó con lesiones nodulares y ulcerativas, así como signos respiratorios, causados por infección por Sporothrix brasiliensis. Ante la falta de respuesta a itraconazol y yoduro potásico orales, se sustituyó itraconazol por isavuconazol, con curación clínica tras 3 meses de tratamiento sin efectos adversos.

Molecular identification and antimicrobial resistance pattern of Nocardia isolated from 14 diseased dogs and cats.

Nocardia are ubiquitous, saprophytic and opportunistic bacteria. They cause a set of pyogenic clinical infections in animals and humans, particularly immunocompromised patients, mostly affecting the skin and respiratory tract, with refractoriness to conventional therapy. The most descriptions of nocardial infections in companion animals involve case reports, and there are scarce case series studies focused on canine and feline nocardiosis in which diagnosis has been based on molecular techniques. We investigated epidemiological aspects, clinical findings, in vitro susceptibility profile, and molecular identification of Nocardia using PCR-based method targeted 16S rRNA gene in twelve dogs and two cats. Among dogs were observed cutaneous lesions (8/12 = 67%), pneumonia (3/12 = 25%), and encephalitis (2/12 = 17%), whereas cats developed cutaneous lesions and osteomyelitis. Nocardia and canine morbillivirus coinfection was described in six dogs (6/12 = 50%). A high mortality rate (6/8 = 75%) was seen among dogs. Three dogs (3/4 = 75%) and one cat (1/2 = 50%) with systemic signs (pneumonia, encephalitis, osteomyelitis), and 83% (5/6) of dogs with a history of concomitant morbillivirus infection died. N. nova (5/12 = 42%), N. cyriacigeorgica (3/12 = 25%), N. farcinica (2/12 = 17%), N. veterana (1/12 = 8%), and N. asteroides (1/12 = 8%) species were identified in dogs, whereas N. africana and N. veterana in cats. Among the isolates from dogs, cefuroxime (12/12 = 100%), amikacin (10/12 = 83%), gentamycin (10/12 = 83%), and imipenem (10/12 = 83%) were the most effective antimicrobials, whereas cefuroxime, cephalexin, amoxicillin/clavulanic acid, imipenem, and gentamycin were efficient against isolates from cats. Multidrug resistance was observed in 36% (5/14) of isolates. We describe a variety of Nocardia species infecting dogs and cats, multidrug-resistant ones, and a high mortality rate, highlighting a poor prognosis of nocardiosis in companion animals, particularly among animals systemically compromised or coinfected by canine morbillivirus. Our study contributes to species identification, in vitro antimicrobial susceptibility profile, clinical-epidemiological aspects, and outcome of natural Nocardia-acquired infections in dogs and cats.

Genotyping and antifungal susceptibility testing of Sporothrix brasiliensis isolates from Southern Brazil.

Sporotrichosis is an implantation mycosis caused by the dimorphic fungus Sporothrix and mostly involves cutaneous and subcutaneous tissues and the lymphatic vessels. Among more than 50 different species, only Sporothrix schenckii, Sporothrix globosa and Sporothrix brasiliensis are frequently reported to cause infections in humans. Sporothrix brasiliensis is remarkably virulent and has been spreading rapidly in Brazil and other Latin American countries. In this study, we aimed to determine the genetic relatedness and antifungal susceptibility of Sporothrix strains by analysing 89 isolates from humans and cats in Curitiba, Southern Brazil. Calmodulin sequencing identified 81 S. brasiliensis and seven S. schenckii isolates. Amplified fragment length polymorphism genotyping analysis showed feline and human isolates clustering together. In vitro susceptibility testing with seven antifungals demonstrated a broad activity against all tested S. brasiliensis isolates, with no significant differences in minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) values between feline and human isolates. Resistance was solely observed in one human isolate against itraconazole and posaconazole, with MICs of ≥16 µg/mL against both antifungals. Whole genome sequencing (WGS) analysis on this isolate and two related susceptible isolates did not reveal any unique substitutions in resistance-associated genes, including cyp51, hmg and erg6, when compared to two related susceptible isolates. The novel antifungal olorofim exhibited excellent activity against this large isolate collection, with all isolates considered as susceptible. Altogether, we indicate zoonotic transmission based on genotyping and revealed a broad activity of seven common antifungals, including olorofim, against a large S. brasiliensis isolate collection.

Cutaneous protothecosis in a dog successfully treated with oral itraconazole in pulse dosing.

BACKGROUND: Protothecosis is a rare infectious disease caused by unicellular, achlorophyllous, microalgae of the genus Prototheca, ubiquitously distributed in nature. The algae are emerging pathogens, whose incidence is increasing in both human and animal populations and serious systemic infections related to this pathogen have been increasingly described in humans in recent years. After mastitis in dairy cows, canine protothecosis is the second most prevalent form of the protothecal disease in animals. Here, we report the first case of chronic cutaneous protothecosis due to P. wickerhamii in a dog in Brazil, successfully treated with a long-term therapy with itraconazole in pulse. CASE PRESENTATION: Upon clinical examination, exudative nasolabial plaque, ulcered, and painful lesions in central and digital pads and lymphadenitis were observed in a 2-year-old mixed-breed dog, with a 4-month history of cutaneous lesions and contact with sewage water. Histopathological examination revealed intense inflammatory reaction, with numerous spherical to oval, encapsulated structures stained with Periodic Acid Schiff, compatible with Prototheca morphology. Tissue culture on Sabouraud agar revealed yeast-like, greyish-white colonies after 48 h of incubation. The isolate was subjected to mass spectrometry profiling and PCR-sequencing of the mitochondrial cytochrome b (CYTB) gene marker, leading to identification of the pathogen as P. wickerhamii. The dog was initially treated with oral itraconazole at a dosage of 10 mg/kg once daily. After six months, the lesions resolved completely, yet recurred shortly after cessation of therapy. The dog was then treated with terbinafine at a dose of 30 mg/kg, once daily for 3 months, with no success. The resolution of clinical signs, with no recurrence over a 36-months follow-up period, was achieved after 3 months of treatment with itraconazole (20 mg/kg) in pulse intermittently on two consecutive days a week. CONCLUSIONS: This report highlights the refractoriness of skin infections by Prototheca wickerhamii with therapies proposed in the literature and suggests a new treatment option with oral itraconazole in pulse dosing for long-term disease control successfully performed in a dog with skin lesions.

Ocular lesions in cats diagnosed with systemic sporotrichosis.

OBJECTIVES: To describe the most common ocular lesions and demonstrate the frequency of ophthalmic involvement in a group of cats with systemic sporotrichosis. ANIMALS STUDIED: Two hundred seventy-four cats diagnosed with systemic sporotrichosis. The inclusion criteria included previous positive cytopathological examination, histopathological examination, or fungal culture. PROCEDURES: In a prospective case-control study, 274 cats diagnosed with systemic sporotrichosis underwent ophthalmic evaluation and received treatment for systemic sporotrichosis. Of these animals, 63 had ocular abnormalities which were recorded, and conjunctivitis was scored from 0 to 5. Diagnostic techniques utilized included fungal culture, as well as cytopathological (10 eyes; 10 cats), and histopathological examination of the palpebral conjunctiva and eyes (2 eyes). RESULTS: Cytopathological and histopathological examination of the conjunctiva, as well as fungal culture, proved to be important tests for the detection of Sporothrix sp. Five cats without the evidence of ophthalmic abnormalities also had a positive fungal culture. The identified ocular lesions in animals with systemic sporotrichosis included increased serous discharge (79 eyes; 53 cats), blepharoconjunctivitis (33 eyes; 25 cats), conjunctivitis (39 eyes, 20 cats), blepharitis (9 eyes; 8 cats), uveitis (5 eyes; 3 cats), and Florida keratopathy-like lesions (2 eyes; 1 cat). CONCLUSION: Sporotrichosis should be considered a differential diagnosis for conjunctivitis and blepharoconjunctivitis, especially in endemic areas. Fungal culture and cytopathology of ocular discharge and histopathological examinations of the conjunctiva are important for the diagnosis of ophthalmic sporotrichosis, although not all cats underwent laboratory testing in this study. Ocular discharge could be a source of contagion transmission.

Spread of Sporothrix spp. through respiratory droplets from infected cats: A potential route of transmission.

Cases of cat-transmitted sporotrichosis in Brazil have increased in recent years. We collected respiratory secretions expelled while sneezing from 28 cats diagnosed with sporotrichosis. We identified the presence of Sporothrix spp. in respiratory droplets expelled in the sneeze of infected cats. The results raise concerns about a new transmission route for cat-transmitted sporotrichosis. Physicians who diagnose and treat human cases of sporotrichosis should be aware of this potential new transmission method to improve clinical suspicion. Approximately half of patients with granulomatous conjunctival sporotrichosis did not report experiencing traumatic injury from cats.

Cat-transmitted sporotrichosis is a zoonosis in geographic expansion from Brazil to other Latin American countries and is considered a public health problem. Data suggest that transmission can occur through the sneeze of an infected cat. The One Health approach is necessary to control the disease.

Inborn Errors of Metabolism in Dogs: Historical, Metabolic, Genetic, and Clinical Aspects.

Inborn errors of metabolism are genetic disorders caused by a block in a metabolic pathway, affecting both humans and animals. Individually, they are rare diseases, but as a group they are relatively common. As most of them have recessive inheritance, a new case may seem like just a sporadic case. The high degree of inbreeding in dog breeds increases the frequency of heterozygotes in populations, maintaining mutations (variants) in healthy individuals and, consequently, increasing the risk of disease recurrence (homozygotes). General practitioners' familiarization with this subject is a significant factor in identifying new cases, contributing to increased knowledge about inborn errors of metabolism and their control. To help general practitioners, we use a clinical genetics approach covering key genetic, metabolic, diagnostic, and therapeutic aspects, offering an overview that integrates knowledge about these diseases in dogs and humans.

Combined prick and patch tests for diagnosis of food hypersensitivity in dogs with chronic pruritus.

BACKGROUND: Previous studies have shown that patch testing with food extracts can assist formulation of elimination diets (ED) in human patients with suspected adverse food reactions (AFR). Little is known about the use of these tests in dogs. OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the effectiveness of a combination of prick and patch testing in current protocols, and food challenge (FC) tests in dogs with AFR. METHODS AND MATERIALS: Prick and patch tests were performed on 21 dogs with chronic, nonseasonal pruritus. Dogs then were fed an ED formulated on the basis of the results. All dogs with improved clinical signs then were challenged with a food to which there had been a positive reaction in the tests. Six dogs subsequently were challenged with a food to which they had been negative on testing. Pruritus Visual Analog Scale (pVAS) and Canine Atopic Dermatitis Extent and Severity Index, 4th iteration (CADESI-04) were evaluated on Day (D)0, D30 and D60 of the ED. Sensitivity (SE), specificity (SP), positive (PPV) and negative (NPV) predictive values, and the Kappa (κ)value were calculated. RESULTS: Of the 21 dogs, there was a significant mean improvement in pVAS and CADESI-04 scores in 16 (76%) dogs after D30 (P < 0.01) and D60 (P < 0.01) of the ED. There were no statistical differences between D30 and D60. The combination of tests had SE, SP, PPV, NPV and κ values of 80%, 66.7%, 66.7%, 80% and -0.17, respectively. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: The combination of prick and patch testing reached high values of SE and NPV. A diagnosis of AFR was made in 76% of the dogs, and test results were useful for the selection of an ED.

Cellulitis-related Rhodococcus equi in a cat harboring VAPA-type plasmid pattern.

Rhodococcus equi is a well-known intracellular facultative bacterium that is opportunistic in nature, and a contagious disease-causing agent of pyogranulomatous infections in humans and multihost animals. Feline rhodococcosis is an uncommon or unnoticed clinical condition, in which the organism is usually refractory to conventional antimicrobial therapy. The pathogenicity of the agent is intimately associated with plasmid-governed infectivity, which is attributed to the presence of plasmid-encoded virulence-associated proteins (Vap). Three host-adapted virulence plasmid types (VAPs) have been distinguished to date: pVAPA, pVAPB, and pVAPN, whose infections are related to equine, pig, and bovine or caprine origin, respectively, while humans are infected by all three VAP types. Most virulence studies with R. equi plasmid types in animals involve livestock species. Conversely, data on the pathogenicity and human relevance of the virulence plasmid profile of R. equi isolated from cats remains unclear. This report describes a case of cellulitis-related R. equi that harbors the pVAPA-type in a cat with cutaneous lesion. Long-term therapy of the cat using marbofloxacin, a broad-spectrum third-generation fluoroquinolone, resulted effectiveness. pVAPA is a host-adapted virulent type that has been associated predominantly with pulmonary foal infections. Our cat had a history of contact with other cats, livestock (including horses), and farm environment that could have favored the transmission of the pathogen. Besides no clear evidence of cat-to-humans transmission of the pathogen, the identification of R. equi harboring pVAPA-type in a cat with cutaneous abscessed lesion represent relevance in human health because this virulent type has been described in people worldwide with clinical rhodococcal disorders.

In Vitro and In Vivo Antifungal Activity of Buparvaquone against Sporothrix brasiliensis.

Sporotrichosis has become an important zoonosis in Brazil, and Sporothrix brasiliensis is the primary species transmitted by cats. Improvement of animal treatment will help control and limit the spread and geographic expansion of sporotrichosis. Accordingly, buparvaquone, an antiprotozoal hydroxynaphthoquinone agent marketed as Butalex, was evaluated in vitro and in vivo against feline-borne isolates of S. brasiliensis. Buparvaquone inhibited in vitro fungal growth at concentrations 4-fold lower than itraconazole (the first-choice antifungal used for sporotrichosis) and was 408 times more selective for S. brasiliensis than mammalian cells. Yeasts treated with a subinhibitory concentration of buparvaquone exhibited mitochondrial dysfunction, reactive oxygen species and neutral lipid accumulation, and impaired plasma membranes. Scanning electron microscopy images also revealed buparvaquone altered cell wall integrity and induced cell disruption. In vivo experiments in a Galleria mellonella model revealed that buparvaquone (single dose of 5 mg/kg of body weight) is more effective than itraconazole against infections with S. brasiliensis yeasts. Combined, our results indicate that buparvaquone has a great in vitro and in vivo antifungal activity against S. brasiliensis, revealing the potential application of this drug as an alternative treatment for feline sporotrichosis.

Guideline for the management of feline sporotrichosis caused by Sporothrix brasiliensis and literature revision.

We herein present a Brazilian guideline for the management of feline sporotrichosis, a mycosis caused by Sporothrix brasiliensis. This guideline is an effort of a national technical group organized by the Working Group on Sporothrix and Sporotrichosis of the International Society for Human and Animal Mycology (ISHAM). This publication intends to provide information on clinical-epidemiological aspects of this zoonosis, as well as a literature revision. Moreover, it gives some practical information on diagnosis and treatment of feline sporotrichosis. It also contains information that can be helpful for the prevention and control of S. brasiliensis transmission.

Efficacy of hydrolyzed soy dog food and homemade food with original protein in the control of food-induced atopic dermatitis in dogs / Eficácia da ração de soja hidrolisada e da comida caseira com proteína original no controle da dermatite atópica induzida por alimentos em cães

Trophoallergens are specific components of food or its ingredients, able to precipitate the atopic eczema at 19.6% to 30% of the dogs with atopic dermatitis (AD). This study evaluated the efficacy of hydrolyzed soy dog food and homemade food with unusual protein in the control of chronic pruritus in dogs with AD. For this, twenty-eight dogs with AD were selected. AD diagnosis was based on Favrot's criteria. The animals were separated in two groups; one group consumed hydrolyzed soy dog food while the other group consumed homemade food with protein sources and original carbohydrates. They were evaluated every two weeks by the Rybnicek and CADLI scale over 60 days. Animals in the group that consumed hydrolyzed soy dog food presented a reduced score of pruritus (Rybnicek scale) on days +15, +30, +45 and +60 (P<0.01) compared to day 0. While the dogs in the homemade food group have not presented a significant difference (P>0.05) in 60 days of treatment. When evaluated by the Canine Atopic Dermatitis Lesion Index (CADLI), dogs treated with soy hydrolyzed dog food had a partial improvement on days +45 (P<0.05) and +60 (P<0.01) compared to day 0, while the dogs in the second group did not show improvements (P>0.05) in 60 days of treatment. In conclusion, soy hydrolyzed dog food has proved effective to partially control clinical signs of food-induced atopic dermatitis; however, it is not effective for the complete control of the disease.(AU)

Os trofoalérgenos são componentes específicos do alimento ou de seus ingredientes, capazes de precipitar o eczema atópico em 19,6% a 30% dos cães com dermatite atópica (DA). O presente estudo teve como objetivo avaliar a eficácia da ração de soja hidrolisada e da comida caseira com proteína não usual no controle do prurido crônico em cães com DA. Para isso foram utilizados vinte e oito cães com DA. O diagnóstico de DA foi baseado nos critérios de Favrot. Os animais foram separados em dois grupos, um grupo consumindo ração hidrolisada de soja e o outro grupo comida caseira com fontes de proteína e carboidratos originais. Estes foram avaliados quinzenalmente pela escala de Rybnicek e CADLI durante 60 dias. Os animais do grupo alimentado com ração hidrolisada de soja apresentaram uma minimização no escore de prurido (escala de Rybnicek) nos dias +15, +30, +45 e +60 (P<0,01) em relação ao dia 0. Já os cães do grupo alimentado com comida caseira não apresentaram diferença significativa (P>0,05) nos 60 dias de tratamento. Quando avaliados pelo índice de CADLl os cães tratados com ração hidrolisada de soja tiveram uma melhora parcial nos dias, +45 (P<0,05) e +60 (P<0,01) em relação ao dia 0, enquanto que os cães do segundo grupo não obtiveram melhora (P>0,05) nos 60 dias de tratamento. A ração hidrolisada de soja se mostrou efetiva para controlar parcialmente os sinais clínicos da dermatite atópica induzida por alimentos, no entanto, não é eficaz para o controle total da doença.(AU)

Eficácia da ciclosporina no controle da dermatite atópica em cães / Efficacy of cyclosporine in the control of atopic dermatitis in dogs

A dermatite atópica é uma dermatopatia inflamatória, pruriginosa, crônica, de origem genética, resultante da perda da função de barreira física da pele e da hiperreatividade à alérgenos ambientais, trofoalérgenos, alérgenos microbianos e a irritantes primários. Este estudo avaliou a eficácia da ciclosporina no controle do prurido e das lesões associadas à dermatite atópica em cães. Selecionaram-se 24 cães com diagnóstico de dermatite atópica baseados nos critérios de Favrot et al. (2010), os quais foram divididos em dois grupos de 12 cães, onde o Grupo 1, recebeu ciclosporina (5mg/kg/vo/24h), e o Grupo 2, foi tratado com prednisona (0,5mg/kg/vo/24h) em doses decrescentes, ambos por 60 dias. Os animais foram continuamente avaliados, e seus escores sintomato-lesionais, baseados na escala de CADESI-03, estabelecidos nos dias 0, 30 e 60. Em adição, os escores de prurido de cada animal, baseado nos critérios de Rybnicek, foram semanalmente avaliados, do dia 0 ao 63. Todos os dados coletados foram analisados pelo teste não paramétrico de Kruskal-Wallis, seguido do teste de Dunn´s e para as análises entre os grupos foi utilizado o teste t, considerado o nível de significância mínimo de 5%. A ciclosporina teve uma eficácia similar, no controle lesional, ao grupo que recebeu prednisona no dia (+30) (p<0,05) e no dia (+60) (p<0,001) do tratamento, em relação ao dia zero. Uma diferença significativa do escore do prurido foi observada nos dias +28, +35, +42, +49, +56 e +63 (p<0,001), e no dia +21 (p<0,01) em relação ao momento inicial do tratamento, porém sua eficácia foi inferior ao Grupo 2, a partir do 42º dia de avaliação, mantendo-se esta diferença nos dias +49, +56 e +63 (p>0,05). Apesar da ciclosporina ter sido menos eficaz no controle do prurido, este se manteve em níveis aceitáveis, e seu uso contínuo não foi associado a efeitos colaterais relevantes.(AU)

Atopic dermatitis is an itchy, chronic inflammatory skin disease of genetic origin, resulting from loss of the physical barrier function of the skin and hyper-reactivity to environmental allergens, trofoallergens, microbial allergens and to primary irritants. The efficacy of cyclosporine in the control of pruritus and lesions associated with atopic dermatitis in dogs was evaluated. Twenty-four dogs with atopic dermatitis were selected, based on Favrot et al.'s criteria (2010). They were divided into two groups of 12 dogs, where Group 1 received cyclosporine (5mg/kg/vo/24h), and Group 2 was treated with prednisone (0.5mg/kg/vo/24h) in decreasing doses, both for 60 days. The animals were continuously evaluated, and theirits lesional symptomatology scores were based on a Cadesi-03 scale, set on days 0, 30 and 60. Pruritus scores of each dog, based on Rybnicek´s criteria, were weekly evaluated, from day 0 to day 63. All collected data were analyzed by the nonparametric Kruskal-Wallis´ test, followed by Dunn's test, and for the analysis between the groups, considered the minimum significance level of 5%, t-test was used. Cyclosporin had similar efficacy in lesional control in the group which received prednisone on day (+30) (p<0.05) and on the day (+60) (p<0.001) of treatment, compared with day zero. A significant difference of the itching score was observed on days +28, +35, +42, +49, +56 and +63 (p<0.001), and on day +21 (p<0.01) when compared to initial treatment. However, its efficacy was lower than Group 2, from 42 days of evaluation on, keeping such difference on days +49, +56 and +63 (p>0.05). Although cyclosporin have been less effective in controlling itching, it remained at acceptable levels, and its continued use was not associated with significant side effects.(AU)

Evaluation of the concentration of allergens from mites in fur and households dust of dogs with atopic dermatitis / Avaliação da concentração de alérgenos provenientes de ácaros na pelagem e na poeira de domicílios de cães com dermatite atópica

This study evaluated the concentration of Der p 1, Der f 1 and Blo t 5 in the fur and households of 20 dogs with atopic dermatitis (AD) and 20 healthy dogs. The diagnosis of AD was clinical based on Favrot's criteria. Dust samples were collected with a domestic vacuum cleaner. For each site, 1m2 was vacuumed for 2 min. The samples were collected in separate filters, transferred into plastic containers, sealed and kept frozen until ELISA analysis. In the fur of atopic dogs the average concentration of Der p 1 was 0.25µg/g compared to 0.03µg/g in healthy dogs. In households with atopic dogs the highest concentrations of Der p 1 were found in carpets (2.18µg/g), followed by couches (1.53µg/g), beds (1.14µg/g), dogs' bed linen (0.64µg/g) and floors (0.14µg/g). The concentrations of Der p 1 on carpets, couches and beds were significantly higher than in atopic dogs' fur (p<0.05). There was no statistical difference when comparing the concentrations of Der f 1 and Blo t 5 in different environments of atopic dogs (p>0.05). The concentrations of Der p 1, Der f 1 and Blo t 5 were equivalent in atopic and non-atopic dog's households. Among the allergens studied, Der p 1 was the most commonly found, predominantly in carpets and couches.(AU)

O presente estudo avaliou a concentração de Der p 1, Der f 1 e Blo t 5, na pelagem e no ambiente domiciliar de cães com dermatite atópica (DA). Para tal, foram selecionados 20 cães com DA e 20 cães saudáveis, e seus domicílios. O diagnóstico de DA foi baseado nos critérios de Favrot. As amostras de poeira foram colhidas com um aspirador de pó doméstico. Para cada local de colheita, foi aspirado 1m2 por dois minutos. As amostras foram recolhidas em filtros separadamente, transferidas para envelopes plásticos, seladas e mantidas congeladas até serem analisadas pelo método de ELISA. Na pelagem dos cães com DA, a concentração média de Der p 1 foi de 0,25µg/g de poeira e nos cães saudáveis foi de 0,03µg/g. No ambiente de cães com DA, o Der p 1 foi encontrado em maior concentração média no tapete (2,18 µg/g), seguido pelo sofá (1,53g/g), cama (1,14µg/g) e roupa de cama dos cães (0,64µg/g) e chão (0,14µg/g). As concentrações de Der p 1 no tapete, sofá e cama dos cães foram significativamente maiores que na pelagem de cães com dermatite atópica (p<0,05). Enquanto que, não houve diferença estatística quando comparadas as concentrações de Der f 1 e Blo t 5 nos diferentes ambientes avaliados (p>0,05). As concentrações de alérgenos Der p 1, Der f 1 e Blo t 5 se equivaleram em ambientes de cães com DA e saudáveis. Entre os alérgenos estudados, o Der p 1 foi o mais comumente encontrado, prevalecendo no tapete e no sofá.(AU)

Genetic variability in Microsporum canis isolated from cats, dogs and humans in Brazil.

Dermatophytosis caused by Microsporum canis is a heterogeneous disease with variable clinical manifestations. M. canis is a zoophilic dermatophyte and the most frequent fungi isolated from dogs, cats and children in Brazil. The aim of this study was to investigate the genetic variability of M. canis isolates from different animal species using two microsatellite markers, namely, McGT(13) and McGT(17), and to correlate the results with the clinical and epidemiological patient data in Brazil. The study included a global set of 102 M. canis strains, including 37 symptomatic cats, 35 asymptomatic cats, 19 human patients with tinea, 9 asymptomatic dogs and 2 symptomatic dogs. A total of 14 genotypes were identified, and 6 large populations were distinguished. There was no correlation between these multilocus genotypes and the clinical and epidemiological data, including the source, symptomatology, clinical picture, breed, age, sex, living conditions and geographic location. These results demonstrate that the use of microsatellite polymorphisms is a reliable method for the differentiation of M. canis strains. However, we were unable to demonstrate a shared clinical and epidemiological pattern among the same genotype samples.

Uncommon mandibular osteomyelitis in a cat caused by Nocardia africana.

BACKGROUND: Nocardiosis is an unusual infection in companion animals characterized by suppurative to pyogranulomatous lesions, localized or disseminated. Cutaneous-subcutaneous, pulmonary and systemic signs are observed in feline nocardiosis. However, osteomyelitis is a rare clinical manifestation in cats. Nocardia cyriacigeorgica (formerly N. asteroides sensu stricto), Nocardia brasiliensis, Nocardia otitidiscaviarum, and Nocardia nova are the most common pathogenic species identified in cats, based on recent molecular classification (16S rRNA gene). The present report is, to our knowledge, the first case of mandibular osteomyelitis in a cat caused by Nocardia africana, diagnosed based upon a combination of methods, including molecular techniques. CASE PRESENTATION: A one-year-old non-neutered female cat, raised in a rural area, was admitted to the Companion Animal Hospital-PUCPR, São José dos Pinhais, State of Paraná, Brazil, with a history a progressive facial lesion, difficulty apprehending food, loss of appetite, apathy and emaciation. Clinical examination showed fever, submandibular lymphadenitis, and a painless, 8 cm diameter mass, which was irregularly-shaped, of firm consistency, and located in the region of the left mandible. The skin around the lesion was friable, with diffuse inflammation (cellulitis), multiple draining sinuses, and exudation of serosanguinous material containing whitish "sulfur" granules.Diagnosis was based initially in clinical signs, microbiological culture, cytological, and histopathological findings, and radiographic images. Molecular sequencing of 16S rRNA of isolate allowed diagnosis of Nocardia africana. Despite supportive care and antimicrobial therapy based on in vitro susceptibility testing the animal died. CONCLUSION: The present report describes a rare clinical case of feline osteomyelitis caused by Nocardia africana, diagnosed based upon a combination of clinical signs, microbiological culture, cytological and histopathological findings, radiographic images, and molecular methods. The use of modern molecular techniques constitutes a quick and reliable method for Nocardia species identification, and may contribute to identification to new species of Nocardia that are virulent in cats.

Obstrução intestinal congênita em cão por aderência de alça em osso púbico / Canine congenital intestinal obstruction due to a band of small bowel in the pubic bone

Atendeu-se uma cadela, sem raça definida, com aproximadamente cinco meses de idade, apresentando anamnese com queixa de apatia e hiporexia associadas a vômitos e emagrecimento progressivo com início incerto. Ao exame físico era evidente distensão abdominal com dilatação intestinal e aumento de peristaltismo. O animal apresentava-se emaciado e subdesenvolvido, com acentuado grau de desidratação, pulso filiforme e nível de consciência reduzido. Minutos após o início do atendimento a cadela foi a óbito. À necropsia, pôde-se observar um segmento do intestino delgado atravessando o púbis e com lúmen reduzido. Tal apresentação se faz relevante por se tratar de um caso nunca antes descrito na literatura veterinária.

A five-month-old mongrel bitch was presented with history of apathy and hyporexia in addition to vomit and progressive weight loss of uncertain beginning. At the physical examination, abdominal distention with intestinal dilatation and increased peristaltic movements was evident. The animal also was emaciated, highly dehydrated, with filiform pulse and reduced conscience level. It died a few minutes after the physical exam. At the necropsy, a small bowel segment could be observed crossing the pubic bone causing obstruction due to a reduction in the lumen at the point of adhesion. This presentation has an important relevance because such case has never been reported before in the veterinary medical practice.