Toxoplasma gondii seroprevalence and risk factors in cats in Rio de Janeiro.

Seroprevalence studies on cats are essential for monitoring the occurrence of Toxoplasma gondii infection. The present research investigated anti-T. gondii antibodies, risk factors, clinical signs, hematology and serum biochemistry in cats from different regions of Rio de Janeiro. An overall 18.7% (17/91) of the cats were seroreactive, and age was associated with increased chances of seroprevalence of anti-T. gondii antibodies. Clinical signs, hematology and serum biochemistry parameters did not help achieve an antemortem diagnosis of cat toxoplasmosis. The parasite circulates in cats from three major regions of Rio de Janeiro, and the present data set will contribute to future epidemiological studies in this endemic state of Brazil.

Feline congenital hypothyroidism: a case report.

We report a two-month-old male cat weighing 630 grams with congenital hypothyroidism. The main complaints were difficulty defecating for more than three days and prostration. Physical examination revealed a broad, flat face, a short neck, enlarged submandibular lymph nodes, chemosis, mild bilateral mucopurulent ocular discharge, seborrheic coat, with gingival thickening around the upper and lower deciduous incisor teeth with partial eruption. The abdomen was distended due to constipation and right unilateral cryptorchidism. Based on this, feline congenital hypothyroidism was suspected. Hormonal tests (free T4 by equilibrium dialysis of 0.06 ng/dl, total T4 of 0.1 ng/ml and TSH of 4.7 ng/ml) confirmed this. Treatment was started with levothyroxine sodium (5-32.2 µg/kg/day). After 120 days of treatment, there was clinical stabilization. Then the patient underwent orchiectomy of the left and of the right ectopic testicles, and at 380 days of treatment, the thyroid scintigraphy showed intense uptake of the radiopharmaceutical by both thyroid lobes and a significant increase in volume. Clinical evaluation showed weight gain (2.6 kilograms during treatment), improvement in the shape of the skull, and a notable increase in body size. At 17 months of age, hormone values were within the reference limits after administration of levothyroxine sodium (32.2µg/kg/day).

O objetivo deste trabalho foi relatar o caso de hipotireoidismo congênito em um felino, macho, pelo curto brasileiro (PCB), com dois meses de idade, pesando 630 gramas. Apresentava como queixa principal dificuldade para defecar por mais de três dias e prostração. O exame físico geral constatou face larga e plana, pescoço curto, linfonodos submandibulares aumentados, quemose e discreta secreção ocular mucopurulenta bilateral. A pelagem apresentava-se opaca e seborreica, espessamento gengival em torno dos dentes decíduos incisivos superiores e inferiores com parcial erupção. À palpação, o abdômen apresentava-se distendido pela presença de fezes em cólon e criptorquidismo unilateral direito. Diante das alterações supracitadas, suspeitou-se de hipotireoidismo congênito felino. O qual foi confirmado através de exames complementares hormonais específicos (T4 livre por diálise do equilíbrio 0,06 ng/dl, T4 total 0,1 ng/ml e TSH 4,7 ng/ml). Iniciou-se o tratamento com levotiroxina sódica na dose de 5 a 32,2µg/kg/dia. Com 120 dias de tratamento houve estabilização clínica e então o paciente foi submetido à orquiectomia dos testículos esquerdo ectópico e direito. E aos 380 dias de tratamento ao exame de cintilografia de tireoide onde foi evidenciado intensa captação do radiofármaco por ambos os lobos tireoidianos e importante aumento de volume. Na avaliação clínica, foi observado ganho de peso (2,6 quilogramas ao longo do tratamento), melhora na conformação do crânio e notável aumento de tamanho corporal. Aos 17 meses de idade, os valores hormonais se encontravam dentro dos limites de referência, após a administração da dose de lexotiroxina sódica na dose de 32,2µg/kg/dia.

Undetectable proviral DNA and viral RNA levels after raltegravir administration in two cats with natural feline leukemia virus infection.

Feline leukemia virus (FeLV) infection was discovered over 50 years ago; however, the serious clinical changes associated with FeLV infection still have great importance in the diagnosis, prevention, and clinical management of symptomatic patients. Progressive infection with FeLV leads to a reduction in the patient's life expectancy and quality of life. This report describes the use of an antiretroviral integrase inhibitor, raltegravir, in two cats with natural FeLV infection. Raltegravir was administered orally at a dose of 40 mg/cat every 12 h in both cases. In case one, 13 weeks after starting raltegravir, RNA loads were undetectable, while proviral DNA loads were still detectable. In case two, proviral DNA loads were undetectable after 32 weeks of medication, while RNA loads were undetectable throughout the treatment. No adverse effects or laboratory test abnormalities were detected with the use of raltegravir in either patient. The patients are currently clinically healthy, still receiving the drug, and are under close observation. To our knowledge, this is the first report describing the use of raltegravir in naturally infected FeLV-positive cats and its effects on circulating viral load. Moreover, the patients described here were followed-up for a longer period than those in previously reported cases.

A infecção pelo vírus da leucemia felina foi descoberta há mais de 50 anos, mas as graves alterações clínicas associadas à infecção pelo FeLV, ainda denotam grande importância no diagnóstico, nas medidas de prevenção e no manejo clínico de pacientes sintomáticos. A infecção progressiva pelo FeLV acarreta na redução do tempo e qualidade de vida do paciente. Este relato descreve o uso de um antirretroviral inibidor da integrase, o raltegravir, em dois gatos com infecção natural pelo FeLV. O raltegravir foi utilizado na dose de 40 mg/gato por via oral a cada 12 horas em ambos os casos. No primeiro caso após treze semanas do uso do raltegravir, a quantificação de RNA foi indetectável e no segundo caso, após trinta e duas semanas o número de cópias de DNA pró-viral foi indetectável. A carga de RNA nunca foi detectada neste paciente. Nenhum efeito adverso, nem alterações laboratoriais foram detectadas com o uso do raltegravir em ambos os casos. Atualmente, os pacientes encontram-se clinicamente saudáveis, fazem uso do antiretroviral com monitorização contínua. Este é o primeiro relato que descreve o uso do raltegravir em gatos infectados naturalmente pelo FeLV e seus efeitos na carga viral circulante. Além disso, os pacientes descritos aqui foram acompanhados por um período maior que os trabalhos anteriores descritos.

Intranasal clotrimazole spray 1% associated with oral itraconazole for nasal feline sporotrichosis: a case series.

Feline sporotrichosis is a major clinical problem among cats in Brazil and is also a neglected, but important, public health issue, due to its zoonotic potential. The nasal clinical form of the disease is particularly challenging, having treatment refractoriness and clinical signs relapse as common features. This case series study aimed to preliminarily describe the effects of the azolic antifungal drug, clotrimazole, as a topical 1% solution spray, together with per os itraconazole on inducing disease remission, as well as treatment tolerability and safety. Medical records of the Feline Medicine Service from the Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro were reviewed, and 7 feline patients met the inclusion criteria (confirmatory diagnostic reached, available follow-up records, and use of intranasal clotrimazole 1% solution -1 spray per nostril every 24 hours- as adjunctive therapy to itraconazole - 100 mg/cat per os every 24 hours). Among these, 4 had a history of treatment refractoriness done until then. Follow-up records included clinical evaluation, along with complementary tests and owner reports on tolerability and occurrence of adverse reactions. All patients have undergone clinical remission within 60 days. Tolerability were satisfactory, and adverse reactions were only found on complementary tests (hepatic enzyme elevation), without clinical repercussion. The intranasal use of 1% clotrimazole solution has shown as a promising adjunctive therapy to itraconazole for feline nasal sporotrichosis, even in previous refractory cases.

A esporotricose felina é um dos principais problemas clínicos entre os gatos no Brasil. É também um problema de saúde pública negligenciado, mas importante, devido ao seu potencial zoonótico. A forma clínica nasal da doença é particularmente desafiadora, sendo a refratariedade ao tratamento e a recidiva dos sinais clínicos características comuns. Este estudo de série de casos teve como objetivo descrever preliminarmente o efeito da infusão intranasal do antifúngico azólicos clotrimazol, na forma de solução "spray" a 1%, com itraconazol dado via oral, na indução da remissão da doença em pacientes felinos, bem como a tolerabilidade e segurança do tratamento. Os registros médicos do Serviço de Medicina Felina da Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro foram revisados, e 7 pacientes felinos atenderam aos critérios de inclusão (diagnóstico confirmatório alcançado, prontuários de acompanhamento disponíveis e uso de solução intranasal de clotrimazol 1% ­1 borrifada por narina a cada 24 horas­ como terapia adjuvante ao itraconazol ­100 mg / gato por via oral a cada 24 horas). Destes, 4 tinham história de refratariedade ao tratamento realizado até então. Os registros de acompanhamento incluíram avaliação clínica, realização de testes complementares e relatórios dos responsáveis pelos animais acerca da tolerabilidade e ocorrência de efeitos adversos. Todos os pacientes apresentaram remissão clínica em até 60 dias. A tolerabilidade e a segurança foram satisfatórias, sendo encontrados efeitos adversos apenas em exames complementares (elevação das enzimas hepáticas), sem repercussão clínica. O uso tópico de solução de clotrimazol a 1% mostrou-se uma promissora terapia adjuvante ao itraconazol dado por via oral para o tratamento da esporotricose nasal felina, mesmo em casos previamente refratários.

Primary intestinal fibrosarcoma in cats

Background: Fibrosarcomas are malignant neoplasms of mesenchymal origin and can have different symptoms depending on the species, age, location and etiopathogenesis. Intestinal tumors in domestic cats are common and the small intestine is the most common site; however, fibrosarcomas are rare in the intestine of all animal species. This work reports intestinal fibrosarcoma in 2 domestic cats and aims to clarify and present information concerning this neoplastic type in the gastrointestinal tract of this species. Cases: We report 2 cases of intestinal fibrosarcoma in domestic felines (Felis catus). Cat 1. A 14-year-old female Persian breed, domestic cat, was taken to the Feline Sector of the Veterinary Hospital of Small Animals (HVPA) of the Federal Rural University of Rio de Janeiro (UFRRJ). The main complaint was chronic constipation and rectal prolapse. The clinical examination revealed an ulcerated mass, measuring 4.0 cm x 1.7 cm. Cat 2. A 10-year-old female undefined breed, domestic cat, was taken to the private clinic. The main complaint was diarrhea with bloody and rectal prolapse. The clinical examination revealed nodule measuring 2.5 cm in diameter. The surgical option decided upon was to use the rectal pull-through technique in both animals. The patients had no trans-surgical or postoperative complications. The material collected during the surgical interventions was analyzed macroscopically and fixed in 10% buffered formalin for 24 h and then sent to the Histopathology Laboratory of the Pathological Anatomy Sector (SAP) at UFRRJ for the cat 1 and in private laboratory for the cat 2. After fixation, it was cleaved for routine microscope exam using Hematoxylin and Eosin (HE) stains and for the histochemical method of Masson's Trichrome staining technique. Complementary immunohistochemistry tests and electron microscopy were also performed. The patients were followed up clinically, showing complete remission of the clinical signs and survival for approximately 1 year after the neoplastic resection. Discussion: There are few reports of intestinal fibrosarcomas in veterinary medicine, therefore, little is known about racial predilection, age, sex or biological behavior. As far as these authors know, this is the 6th and 7th report of this neoplasm with a primary site in the large intestine in this species. The morphological diagnosis of fibrosarcoma is relatively simple, whereas, in some cases the differential diagnosis for tumors of the peripheral nerve sheath, leiomyosarcomas and gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST) can be extremely difficult. The immunohistochemistry technique in these cases may not be particularly useful. The fibrosarcoma diagnosis was also confirmed by electron microscopy since no evidence was found that could lead to a neuronal origin, thus excluding tumors such as neurofibrosarcoma and schawnoma, corroborating the immunohistochemical examination. The surgical management of tumor resection with wide safety margins (minimum 2 cm) remains the "gold standard" therapy for dealing with fibrosarcomas since they have a low response rate to chemotherapy and radiotherapy and the use of these therapies as an adjuvant is controversial. The advantages of this technique are related to the surgical time, simplicity, easy access and reduction in the risk of abdominal contamination. Histopathological, immunohistochemistry and electron microscopy evaluations were sufficient to enable the diagnosis of an intestinal fibrosarcoma in both cats. The occurrence of this neoplasm with intestinal involvement in the feline species is rare; therefore, this description is important as it provides information about epidemiology, associated signs, differential diagnoses, biological behavior, treatment and prognosis.

Extranodal B cell lymphoma in the trachea of a domestic cat

Background: Primary tracheal tumors are considered uncommon in veterinary medicine and among them extranodal tracheal lymphoma, which is a neoplastic type, has rarely been described, especially with the use of immunophenotyping. Consequently, there is a lack of knowledge inherent to the characteristics of this tumor type in felines and as a result little information on how to deal with animals affected by this disease. Therefore, there is a need for more studies focusing on this matter. The objective of this work is to report a case of extranodal B cell lymphoma in the trachea of a domestic cat and point out the clinical and pathological characteristics of this neoplastic type. Case: A 5-year-old domestic cat, of an oriental breed, was taken to a veterinary clinic exclusively for cats in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The main complaint was difficulty in breathing and loss of appetite and historical data included intolerance to exercise. A clinical examination confirmed inspiratory dyspnea and upper respiratory sounds. Hematological and serum biochemical exams did not evidence any noteworthy changes and the cat was considered negative for feline viral leukemia and feline immunodeficiency viruses through serological and molecular testing. However, in the radiographic examination of the thoracic cervical region, an opacity was observed that occluded part of the tracheal lumen and this was suggestive of a mass in the initial third of the trachea, measuring 0.5 cm in diameter. The animal was stabilized and then 24 h after admission underwent inspection of the oral cavity and a biopsy of the tracheal mass was performed. Cytology of the specimen was suggestive of lymphoma. The treatment of choice was: lomustine with a single, oral dose of 10 mg; vincristine sulfate with a single intravenous dose of 0.75 mg/m²; and methylprednisolone acetate with a single...(AU)

Comparison of the protocols for obtaining platelet-rich plasma in dogs: a cellular study / Comparação entre protocolos para obtenção de plasma rico em plaquetas em cães: estudo celular

This study aimed to evaluate two protocols (PA and PB) that are used to obtain canine platelet-rich plasma (PRP) for cellularity. Twenty healthy dogs were used. Blood samples were collected and placed in two tubes of 3.2% sodium citrate. PA used double centrifugation at 210 x g, and 370 x g and PB used double centrifugation with 140 x g and 330 x g. The PRP samples from the protocols were examined in terms of their platelet, erythrocyte, and leukocyte count in the Neubauer chamber, differential leukocyte count and platelet morphological observation in blood smears. Data (mean and standard deviation) were analyzed with the 95% probability t-test (P <0.05) using Pearsons correlation to test the relationship between platelets and erythrocytes, platelets, and leukocytes, and the leukocyte count versus the erythrocytes. Very weak negative correlation between platelets and leukocytes (p= -0.03), weak negative correlation between platelets and erythrocytes (p= -0.3) and a strong positive correlation between leukocytes and erythrocytes (ρ = 0.75) were noted. Although, BP did not reach the desired mean of one million platelets (979300 ± 79631 cells / μL), both protocols, A and B (4.42 ± 1.61 and 3.85 ± 1.55 times more platelets than total blood, respectively) (p <0.05) were efficient in concentrating platelets. Platelet activation was present in 26.55 ± 6.72% of the PA platelets and 26.25 ± 7.03% in PB (p> 0.05). PA and PB presented low erythrocyte concentration (p> 0.05), and PA had more leukocytes (p <0.05) than PB, with higher concentrations of basophils that were segmented, and lymphocytes.(AU)

Foi proposto avaliar dois protocolos (PA e PB) para obtenção de plasma rico em plaquetas (PRP) canino quanto a celularidade. Foram utilizados 20 cães sadios e coletadas amostras sanguíneas, sendo acondicionados em dois tubos de citrato de sódio a 3,2%. O PA utilizando centrifugação dupla com 210 xG e 370 xG e PB utilizando centrifugação dupla com 140 xG e 330 xG. Amostras de PRP dos protocolos foram destinadas a contagem plaquetária, eritrocitária e leucocitária em câmara de Neubauer, contagem diferencial leucocitária e observação morfológica plaquetária em esfregaços sanguíneos. Analisou-se os dados (médias e desvios padrão) pelo Teste t com 95% de probabilidade (p<0,05) utilizando-se correlação de Pearson para testar a relação entre a contagem de plaquetas e eritrócitos, plaquetas e leucócitos e leucócitos em relação aos eritrócitos. Houve correlação negativa muito fraca entre plaquetas e leucócitos (ρ= -0,03), negativa fraca entre plaquetas e eritrócitos (ρ= -0,3) e correlação positiva forte entre leucócitos e eritrócitos (ρ=0,75). Embora o PB não tenha alcançando a média de um milhão de plaquetas desejado (979300 ± 79631 células/µL), ambos os protocolos, A e B (4,42 ± 1,61 e 3,85 ± 1,55 vezes mais plaquetas que o sangue total, respectivamente) (p<0,05), foram eficientes em concentrar plaquetas. A ativação plaquetária esteve presente em 26,55 ± 6,72 % das plaquetas do PA e 26,25 ± 7,03 % nas do PB (p>0,05). PA e PB apresentaram baixa concentração eritrocitária (p>0,05) e PA apresentou mais leucócitos (p<0,05) que PB, com maiores concentrações de basófilos, segmentados e linfócitos.(AU)

Extranodal B cell lymphoma in the trachea of a domestic cat

Background: Primary tracheal tumors are considered uncommon in veterinary medicine and among them extranodal tracheal lymphoma, which is a neoplastic type, has rarely been described, especially with the use of immunophenotyping. Consequently, there is a lack of knowledge inherent to the characteristics of this tumor type in felines and as a result little information on how to deal with animals affected by this disease. Therefore, there is a need for more studies focusing on this matter. The objective of this work is to report a case of extranodal B cell lymphoma in the trachea of a domestic cat and point out the clinical and pathological characteristics of this neoplastic type. Case: A 5-year-old domestic cat, of an oriental breed, was taken to a veterinary clinic exclusively for cats in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The main complaint was difficulty in breathing and loss of appetite and historical data included intolerance to exercise. A clinical examination confirmed inspiratory dyspnea and upper respiratory sounds. Hematological and serum biochemical exams did not evidence any noteworthy changes and the cat was considered negative for feline viral leukemia and feline immunodeficiency viruses through serological and molecular testing. However, in the radiographic examination of the thoracic cervical region, an opacity was observed that occluded part of the tracheal lumen and this was suggestive of a mass in the initial third of the trachea, measuring 0.5 cm in diameter. The animal was stabilized and then 24 h after admission underwent inspection of the oral cavity and a biopsy of the tracheal mass was performed. Cytology of the specimen was suggestive of lymphoma. The treatment of choice was: lomustine with a single, oral dose of 10 mg; vincristine sulfate with a single intravenous dose of 0.75 mg/m²; and methylprednisolone acetate with a single...

Comparison of the protocols for obtaining platelet-rich plasma in dogs: a cellular study / Comparação entre protocolos para obtenção de plasma rico em plaquetas em cães: estudo celular

ABSTRACT: This study aimed to evaluate two protocols (PA and PB) that are used to obtain canine platelet-rich plasma (PRP) for cellularity. Twenty healthy dogs were used. Blood samples were collected and placed in two tubes of 3.2% sodium citrate. PA used double centrifugation at 210 x g, and 370 x g and PB used double centrifugation with 140 x g and 330 x g. The PRP samples from the protocols were examined in terms of their platelet, erythrocyte, and leukocyte count in the Neubauer chamber, differential leukocyte count and platelet morphological observation in blood smears. Data (mean and standard deviation) were analyzed with the 95% probability t-test (P <0.05) using Pearson's correlation to test the relationship between platelets and erythrocytes, platelets, and leukocytes, and the leukocyte count versus the erythrocytes. Very weak negative correlation between platelets and leukocytes (p= -0.03), weak negative correlation between platelets and erythrocytes (p= -0.3) and a strong positive correlation between leukocytes and erythrocytes (ρ = 0.75) were noted. Although, BP did not reach the desired mean of one million platelets (979300 ± 79631 cells / μL), both protocols, A and B (4.42 ± 1.61 and 3.85 ± 1.55 times more platelets than total blood, respectively) (p <0.05) were efficient in concentrating platelets. Platelet activation was present in 26.55 ± 6.72% of the PA platelets and 26.25 ± 7.03% in PB (p> 0.05). PA and PB presented low erythrocyte concentration (p> 0.05), and PA had more leukocytes (p <0.05) than PB, with higher concentrations of basophils that were segmented, and lymphocytes.

RESUMO: Foi proposto avaliar dois protocolos (PA e PB) para obtenção de plasma rico em plaquetas (PRP) canino quanto a celularidade. Foram utilizados 20 cães sadios e coletadas amostras sanguíneas, sendo acondicionados em dois tubos de citrato de sódio a 3,2%. O PA utilizando centrifugação dupla com 210 xG e 370 xG e PB utilizando centrifugação dupla com 140 xG e 330 xG. Amostras de PRP dos protocolos foram destinadas a contagem plaquetária, eritrocitária e leucocitária em câmara de Neubauer, contagem diferencial leucocitária e observação morfológica plaquetária em esfregaços sanguíneos. Analisou-se os dados (médias e desvios padrão) pelo Teste t com 95% de probabilidade (p<0,05) utilizando-se correlação de Pearson para testar a relação entre a contagem de plaquetas e eritrócitos, plaquetas e leucócitos e leucócitos em relação aos eritrócitos. Houve correlação negativa muito fraca entre plaquetas e leucócitos (ρ= -0,03), negativa fraca entre plaquetas e eritrócitos (ρ= -0,3) e correlação positiva forte entre leucócitos e eritrócitos (ρ=0,75). Embora o PB não tenha alcançando a média de um milhão de plaquetas desejado (979300 ± 79631 células/µL), ambos os protocolos, A e B (4,42 ± 1,61 e 3,85 ± 1,55 vezes mais plaquetas que o sangue total, respectivamente) (p<0,05), foram eficientes em concentrar plaquetas. A ativação plaquetária esteve presente em 26,55 ± 6,72 % das plaquetas do PA e 26,25 ± 7,03 % nas do PB (p>0,05). PA e PB apresentaram baixa concentração eritrocitária (p>0,05) e PA apresentou mais leucócitos (p<0,05) que PB, com maiores concentrações de basófilos, segmentados e linfócitos.

Cholangiocarcinoma in young cats

Background: Cholangiocellular carcinoma is a malignant tumor that occurs mainly in elderly dogs and cats. Primaryhepatobiliary neoplasms are considered rare in felines, although cholangiocarcinoma is the most common tumor typeamong malignant liver tumors in the species. The objective of this work is to report two cases of cholangiocarcinoma inyoung domestic cats, with three years old, and to approach clinical and pathological aspects to promote awareness of thistype of injury in young animals, with a focus on prevention of predisposing factors.Cases: A 3-year-old male domestic cat (cat 1) had a history of progressive weight loss, persistent vomiting, diarrhea,and episodes of seizure. At the clinical examination was noted moderate degree of jaundice. In the biochemical exams itwas verified as alteration hypoproteinemia, increase of urea and hyponatremia. Abdominal ultrasonography revealed aformation in the left epigastric region measuring 8.0 x 5.0 cm, with a diffusely heterogeneous parenchyma, suggestive ofhepatic neoplasia, in addition to the presence of free abdominal fluid. Cavity fluid analysis was suggestive of carcinoma.A 3-year-old male domestic cat (cat 2), with history of hyporexia, emaciation and vomiting was taken to care. Physicalexamination showed moderate dehydration, hypocorous mucosa and presence of abdominal mass on palpation. The animals serum biochemical assessment were verified as changes, increasing AST. Ultrasonographic examination showedan abdominal mass, located caudally to the spleen, with irregular shape, measuring approximately 4.7 cm suggestive ofhepatic neoplasia, in addition to the presence of abdominal fluid. The hepatic cytology performed by fine needle aspiration was suggestive of carcinoma. After the clinical worsening of two cats and due unfavorable prognosis, euthanasia andnecropsy were performed. In the macroscopic...(AU)

Cholangiocarcinoma in young cats

Background: Cholangiocellular carcinoma is a malignant tumor that occurs mainly in elderly dogs and cats. Primaryhepatobiliary neoplasms are considered rare in felines, although cholangiocarcinoma is the most common tumor typeamong malignant liver tumors in the species. The objective of this work is to report two cases of cholangiocarcinoma inyoung domestic cats, with three years old, and to approach clinical and pathological aspects to promote awareness of thistype of injury in young animals, with a focus on prevention of predisposing factors.Cases: A 3-year-old male domestic cat (cat 1) had a history of progressive weight loss, persistent vomiting, diarrhea,and episodes of seizure. At the clinical examination was noted moderate degree of jaundice. In the biochemical exams itwas verified as alteration hypoproteinemia, increase of urea and hyponatremia. Abdominal ultrasonography revealed aformation in the left epigastric region measuring 8.0 x 5.0 cm, with a diffusely heterogeneous parenchyma, suggestive ofhepatic neoplasia, in addition to the presence of free abdominal fluid. Cavity fluid analysis was suggestive of carcinoma.A 3-year-old male domestic cat (cat 2), with history of hyporexia, emaciation and vomiting was taken to care. Physicalexamination showed moderate dehydration, hypocorous mucosa and presence of abdominal mass on palpation. The animal’s serum biochemical assessment were verified as changes, increasing AST. Ultrasonographic examination showedan abdominal mass, located caudally to the spleen, with irregular shape, measuring approximately 4.7 cm suggestive ofhepatic neoplasia, in addition to the presence of abdominal fluid. The hepatic cytology performed by fine needle aspiration was suggestive of carcinoma. After the clinical worsening of two cats and due unfavorable prognosis, euthanasia andnecropsy were performed. In the macroscopic...

Uso de anfotericina B por via intralesional associada ao itraconazol oral para tratamento de recidiva de esporotricose nasal em um gato - relato de caso / Intralesional use of amphotericin B associated with oral itraconazole for the treatment of recurrent nasal sporotrichosis in a cat - case report / Anfotericina B intralesional e itraconazole oral en el tratamiento de un cuadro recidivante de esporotricosis nasal en un gato - relato de caso

A esporotricose nasal é uma afecção de difícil resolução clínica, muitas vezes refratária ao tratamento e possivelmente recidivante em gatos. Neste caso, a anfotericina B foi utilizada por via intralesional em associação ao itraconazol (100 mg/gato/via oral a cada 24 horas) em felino com recidiva de esporotricose nasal. Durante o tratamento foram realizados exames laboratoriais para garantir a segurança do protocolo utilizado. O novo biomarcador para função renal SDMA IDEXXTM foi empregado antes e após o término do protocolo para monitorar a função renal. Os efeitos adversos encontrados foram edema e desconforto no local de aplicação. O tempo total de tratamento foi de três meses e não se observou efeito tóxico renal. Dessa maneira o protocolo utilizado mostrou-se eficaz e seguro no tratamento da esporotricose nasal.(AU)

Nasal sporotrichosis is a condition of difficult clinical resolution, which is commonly refractory to treatment and recurrent in cats. In this report, amphotericin B was used intralesionaliy in combination with oral itraconazole (100 mg/per catloral each 24 h) in order to treat a cat with relapse of nasal sporotrichosis. During the treatment, laboratory tests were performed to ensure the safety of the protocol used. The new biomarker for renal function SDMA IDEXX was used before and after the end of the protocol to monitor renal function. Adverse effects were edema and local discomfort. Total treatment duration was 3 months, and no renal toxic effect was observed. This protocol therefore proved to be effective and safe to treat nasal sporotrichosis.(AU)

La esporotricosis nasal es una afección de difícil manejo clínico que en muchas ocasiones resulta refractaria a los tratamientos y con importantes tasas de recidiva en gatos. En el presente caso, la anfotericina B se utilizó por vía intralesional en asociación con itraconazole (100 mg/gato/PO/24hs) en un gato con recidiva de esporotricosis nasal. Durante el tratamiento se realizaron exámenes de laboratorio a fin de garantizar la seguridad del protocolo utilizado. Se utilizó un nuevo biomarcador para función renal (SDMA IDEXXTM) antes y después del protocolo terapéutico. Los efectos adversos encontrados fueron edema y molestias en el lugar de aplicación. EI tiempo total de tratamiento fue de tres meses, sin que se hayan observado efectos tóxicos a nivel renal. Así, el protocolo usado se mostró eficiente y seguro para el tratamiento de la esporotricosis nasal.(AU)

Uso de anfotericina B por via intralesional associada ao itraconazol oral para tratamento de recidiva de esporotricose nasal em um gato - relato de caso / Intralesional use of amphotericin B associated with oral itraconazole for the treatment of recurrent nasal sporotrichosis in a cat - case report / Anfotericina B intralesional e itraconazole oral en el tratamiento de un cuadro recidivante de esporotricosis nasal en un gato - relato de caso

A esporotricose nasal é uma afecção de difícil resolução clínica, muitas vezes refratária ao tratamento e possivelmente recidivante em gatos. Neste caso, a anfotericina B foi utilizada por via intralesional em associação ao itraconazol (100 mg/gato/via oral a cada 24 horas) em felino com recidiva de esporotricose nasal. Durante o tratamento foram realizados exames laboratoriais para garantir a segurança do protocolo utilizado. O novo biomarcador para função renal SDMA IDEXXTM foi empregado antes e após o término do protocolo para monitorar a função renal. Os efeitos adversos encontrados foram edema e desconforto no local de aplicação. O tempo total de tratamento foi de três meses e não se observou efeito tóxico renal. Dessa maneira o protocolo utilizado mostrou-se eficaz e seguro no tratamento da esporotricose nasal.

Nasal sporotrichosis is a condition of difficult clinical resolution, which is commonly refractory to treatment and recurrent in cats. In this report, amphotericin B was used intralesionaliy in combination with oral itraconazole (100 mg/per catloral each 24 h) in order to treat a cat with relapse of nasal sporotrichosis. During the treatment, laboratory tests were performed to ensure the safety of the protocol used. The new biomarker for renal function SDMA IDEXX was used before and after the end of the protocol to monitor renal function. Adverse effects were edema and local discomfort. Total treatment duration was 3 months, and no renal toxic effect was observed. This protocol therefore proved to be effective and safe to treat nasal sporotrichosis.

La esporotricosis nasal es una afección de difícil manejo clínico que en muchas ocasiones resulta refractaria a los tratamientos y con importantes tasas de recidiva en gatos. En el presente caso, la anfotericina B se utilizó por vía intralesional en asociación con itraconazole (100 mg/gato/PO/24hs) en un gato con recidiva de esporotricosis nasal. Durante el tratamiento se realizaron exámenes de laboratorio a fin de garantizar la seguridad del protocolo utilizado. Se utilizó un nuevo biomarcador para función renal (SDMA IDEXXTM) antes y después del protocolo terapéutico. Los efectos adversos encontrados fueron edema y molestias en el lugar de aplicación. EI tiempo total de tratamiento fue de tres meses, sin que se hayan observado efectos tóxicos a nivel renal. Así, el protocolo usado se mostró eficiente y seguro para el tratamiento de la esporotricosis nasal.

Clinical, ultrasonographic and histopathological findings of gastrointestinal disorders in cats

Background: Gastrointestinal disorders are common in cats, and the differentiation between inflammatory and neoplastic disease is essential to determine therapy. Therefore, ultrasonographic evaluation is an important tool for intestinal diagnosis in cats. The aim of this study is to evaluate the clinical, ultrasonographic and histopathological characteristics of cats with intestinal diseases.Materials, Methods & Results: Forty cats with gastrointestinal clinical signs and abdominal ultrasound findings consistent with inflammatory bowel disease or gastrointestinal neoplasia were studied. Ultrasound evaluated all abdominal organs, with emphasis on the gastrointestinal tract, and parameters included the thickness of gastric and intestinal wall, the variations of its echogenicity, reduced intestinal lumen, mesenteric lymph nodes, involvement of other abdominal organs and presence of abdominal effusion. All cats were referred to exploratory laparotomy, in order to obtain biopsy samples. Mean age was 11.6 years and there were 23 females and 17 males. Clinical signs included weight loss (87.5%), vomiting (82.5%), hyporexia (75%), diarrhea (35%), constipation (10%), polyphagia (5%) and intestinal gases (5%). In abdominal ultrasound, the most common findings were increased thickness of the gastric and/or intestinal wall, decreased echogenicity of the intestinal wall, reduction of the intestinal lumen due to severe wall thickening or presence of obstructive mass, and lymphadenopathy. Histopathology revealed alimentary lymphoma (AL) in 19 cases, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) in 10 cases, intestinal adenocarcinoma in 7 cases, mast cell tumor in 2 cases and intestinal hemangiosarcoma in 2 cases.[...](AU)

Clinical, ultrasonographic and histopathological findings of gastrointestinal disorders in cats

Background: Gastrointestinal disorders are common in cats, and the differentiation between inflammatory and neoplastic disease is essential to determine therapy. Therefore, ultrasonographic evaluation is an important tool for intestinal diagnosis in cats. The aim of this study is to evaluate the clinical, ultrasonographic and histopathological characteristics of cats with intestinal diseases.Materials, Methods & Results: Forty cats with gastrointestinal clinical signs and abdominal ultrasound findings consistent with inflammatory bowel disease or gastrointestinal neoplasia were studied. Ultrasound evaluated all abdominal organs, with emphasis on the gastrointestinal tract, and parameters included the thickness of gastric and intestinal wall, the variations of its echogenicity, reduced intestinal lumen, mesenteric lymph nodes, involvement of other abdominal organs and presence of abdominal effusion. All cats were referred to exploratory laparotomy, in order to obtain biopsy samples. Mean age was 11.6 years and there were 23 females and 17 males. Clinical signs included weight loss (87.5%), vomiting (82.5%), hyporexia (75%), diarrhea (35%), constipation (10%), polyphagia (5%) and intestinal gases (5%). In abdominal ultrasound, the most common findings were increased thickness of the gastric and/or intestinal wall, decreased echogenicity of the intestinal wall, reduction of the intestinal lumen due to severe wall thickening or presence of obstructive mass, and lymphadenopathy. Histopathology revealed alimentary lymphoma (AL) in 19 cases, inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) in 10 cases, intestinal adenocarcinoma in 7 cases, mast cell tumor in 2 cases and intestinal hemangiosarcoma in 2 cases.[...]

Tratamento cirúrgico bem sucedido de quilotórax idiopático em gato / Successful surgical treatment of idiopathic chylothorax in a cat

Background: Chylothorax in cats represents a challenge due to the possibility of involvement of multiple etiologies and the harmful consequences resulting of the presence of the chylous effusion in the thorax. The causes include neoplasms in the thoracic cavity, heart disease and thoracic injuries. It is imperative that clinical nutritional and therapeutic and / or surgical management be immediate and directed to the treatment of the cause. The objective of this work was to report a case of idiopathic chylothorax in a domestic cat solved through surgical intervention and dietary maintenance applied.Case: A 4-year-old male cat, fed with diet for the age range of adult cats, was attended at the Veterinary Hospital of the Federal Rural University of Rio de Janeiro (HV - UFRRJ), with clinical complaint of difficulty breathing, inappetence, prostration and weight loss. In the clinical examination was verified intense tachypnea, presence of heart murmur, normocorated mucosae, dehydration 7%. The animal was sedated to be submitted to radiographic examination of the thorax with pethidine and midazolam. Thoracic radiographs on the lateral, ventral-dorsal and orthostatic positions were realized and severe pleural effusion was observed in both hemitorax with drainage of 180 mL of lactescent fluid from the right hemithorax and 120 mL of left hemithorax liquid. Through analysis of cavity liquids the effusion was classified as chylous effusion. The hemogram showed a neutrophilic leukocytosis. Serum cholesterol and triglyceride concentrations (28 mg/ dL and 43 mg/dL, respectively) were lower than the concentrations of the cavity liquid (67 mg/dL and 722 mg/dL, respectively). Ultrasound examination revealed no mass in the thoracic cavity and no changes in the pulmonary parenchyma. The echocardiographic examination was also performed and did not reveal any cardiac alterations.[...]

Hemangiosarcoma associated with polypropylene suture in a cat

Background: Sutures plays an important role in wound repair by providing hemostasis and support for healing suture. Synthetic non-absorbable like polypropylene suture materials induce minimal tissue reaction. Polypropylene has not been associated to neoplasms in domestic animals. The aim this study is to describe the first case of polypropylene suture induced hemangiosarcoma in an abdominal wall of a feline.Case: A 13-year-old female domestic shorthair cat was presented with a ventral abdominal subcutaneous mass. Clinical examination revealed a firm, rough, and irregular, approximately 6 x 4 cm subcutaneous mass involving the caudal ventral abdomen. A complete blood (cell) count (CBC) was within normal limits. Leukemia and FIV tests were negative; and the results of a chemistry panel revealed elevated creatinine (valor: 2.0 reference range: 0.5-1.9). Abdominal ultrasound revealed a large mass of mixed echogenicity in the mid-ventral abdomen cranial to the bladder, measuring approximately 6 x 4 cm in the middle line with suture deeply embedded within mass suggesting foreign body reaction or neoplasm. There was evidence of sutures (hyperechoic lines) along the caudal abdominal wall extending into the mass. Records indicated that ovariohysterectomy procedure was performed 12 years previously at the same clinic and the closure of the abdominal wall was made with polypropylene sutures. No other abdominal surgery was performed in this cat. A fine-needle aspirate of the mass and contrast-enhanced computed tomography was not performed due to owner’s finance restrains. The cat was referred to surgery and the mass was excised. No evidence of metastasis was noted during surgery. Histologically, the neoplastic cells were oval to round with granular cytoplasm and vesicular nucleus and exhibited moderate cellular and nuclear pleomorphism. A diagnosis of abdominal wall hemangiosarcoma was made with suture deeply embedded within mass. Surgical margins were clear. [...]

Histoplasmose pulmonar grave em um gato doméstico: tratamento com Anfotericina B e Itraconazol / acute pulmonary histoplasmosis in a domestic cat treated with Amphotericin B and Itraconazole

Background: Histoplasmosis is a systemic mycosis whose etiologic agent is the fungus Histoplasma capsulatum. This fungal infection, which is the second most frequent systemic mycotic fungal disease in felines in the United States, has rarely been found in cats in Brazil. This paper reports on a case of acute pulmonary histoplasmosis in a domestic cat treated with oral itraconazole associated with amphotericin B administered subcutaneously. This treatment resulted in clinical remission of the patient’s symptoms, as evidenced by radiographic follow-ups.Case: A domestic cat suffering from acute dyspnea was taken to a veterinary clinic. The animal was subjected to emergency oxygen therapy, and kept at rest through sedation with midazolam. A physical examination revealed normally colored mucosa, 8% dehydration, bristly fur, body condition score 2/9, tachypnea with respiratory rate of 100 breaths per minute and expiratory dyspnea. The radiographic examination showed marked opacification of all the pulmonary fields, with a mixed pattern (interstitial and alveolar) of heterogeneous appearance and diffuse distribution, which are changes consistent with an inflammatory infectious process (pneumonia). A cytological analysis of the pleural fluid revealed round to oval-shaped intracytoplasmic structures, varying in size from 2 to 4 μm, inside foamy macrophages, consistent with Histoplasma capsulatum. Based on the diagnosis of pulmonary histoplasmosis, and in view of the patient’s acute respiratory distress, it was decided to treat the cat using itraconazole associated with amphotericin B. Itraconazole was administered orally at a dose of 100 mg/cat every 24 h, while amphotericin B was administered subcutaneously at a dose of 0.5 mg/kg, combined with 100 mL of sodium chloride 0.9% and 100 mL of 5% glycated serum, with monitoring of serum concentrations of symmetric dimethylarginine (SDMA).[...]

Tratamento cirúrgico bem sucedido de quilotórax idiopático em gato / Successful surgical treatment of idiopathic chylothorax in a cat

Background: Chylothorax in cats represents a challenge due to the possibility of involvement of multiple etiologies and the harmful consequences resulting of the presence of the chylous effusion in the thorax. The causes include neoplasms in the thoracic cavity, heart disease and thoracic injuries. It is imperative that clinical nutritional and therapeutic and / or surgical management be immediate and directed to the treatment of the cause. The objective of this work was to report a case of idiopathic chylothorax in a domestic cat solved through surgical intervention and dietary maintenance applied.Case: A 4-year-old male cat, fed with diet for the age range of adult cats, was attended at the Veterinary Hospital of the Federal Rural University of Rio de Janeiro (HV - UFRRJ), with clinical complaint of difficulty breathing, inappetence, prostration and weight loss. In the clinical examination was verified intense tachypnea, presence of heart murmur, normocorated mucosae, dehydration 7%. The animal was sedated to be submitted to radiographic examination of the thorax with pethidine and midazolam. Thoracic radiographs on the lateral, ventral-dorsal and orthostatic positions were realized and severe pleural effusion was observed in both hemitorax with drainage of 180 mL of lactescent fluid from the right hemithorax and 120 mL of left hemithorax liquid. Through analysis of cavity liquids the effusion was classified as chylous effusion. The hemogram showed a neutrophilic leukocytosis. Serum cholesterol and triglyceride concentrations (28 mg/ dL and 43 mg/dL, respectively) were lower than the concentrations of the cavity liquid (67 mg/dL and 722 mg/dL, respectively). Ultrasound examination revealed no mass in the thoracic cavity and no changes in the pulmonary parenchyma. The echocardiographic examination was also performed and did not reveal any cardiac alterations.[...](AU)

Histoplasmose pulmonar grave em um gato doméstico: tratamento com Anfotericina B e Itraconazol / acute pulmonary histoplasmosis in a domestic cat treated with Amphotericin B and Itraconazole

Background: Histoplasmosis is a systemic mycosis whose etiologic agent is the fungus Histoplasma capsulatum. This fungal infection, which is the second most frequent systemic mycotic fungal disease in felines in the United States, has rarely been found in cats in Brazil. This paper reports on a case of acute pulmonary histoplasmosis in a domestic cat treated with oral itraconazole associated with amphotericin B administered subcutaneously. This treatment resulted in clinical remission of the patients symptoms, as evidenced by radiographic follow-ups.Case: A domestic cat suffering from acute dyspnea was taken to a veterinary clinic. The animal was subjected to emergency oxygen therapy, and kept at rest through sedation with midazolam. A physical examination revealed normally colored mucosa, 8% dehydration, bristly fur, body condition score 2/9, tachypnea with respiratory rate of 100 breaths per minute and expiratory dyspnea. The radiographic examination showed marked opacification of all the pulmonary fields, with a mixed pattern (interstitial and alveolar) of heterogeneous appearance and diffuse distribution, which are changes consistent with an inflammatory infectious process (pneumonia). A cytological analysis of the pleural fluid revealed round to oval-shaped intracytoplasmic structures, varying in size from 2 to 4 μm, inside foamy macrophages, consistent with Histoplasma capsulatum. Based on the diagnosis of pulmonary histoplasmosis, and in view of the patients acute respiratory distress, it was decided to treat the cat using itraconazole associated with amphotericin B. Itraconazole was administered orally at a dose of 100 mg/cat every 24 h, while amphotericin B was administered subcutaneously at a dose of 0.5 mg/kg, combined with 100 mL of sodium chloride 0.9% and 100 mL of 5% glycated serum, with monitoring of serum concentrations of symmetric dimethylarginine (SDMA).[...](AU)