Trypanosoma cruzi infection in dogs along the US-Mexico border: R0 changes with vector species composition.

Infection with Trypanosoma cruzi, etiological agent of Chagas disease, is common in US government working dogs along the US-Mexico border. This 3145 km long border comprises four states: Texas (TX), New Mexico (NM), Arizona (AZ) and California (CA) with diverse ecosystems and several triatomine (a.k.a., kissing bug) species, primary vectors of T. cruzi in this region. The kissing bug (Heteroptera: Reduviidae) community ranging from CA to TX includes Triatoma protracta (Uhler), Triatoma recurva (Stål) and Triatoma rubida (Uhler) and becomes dominated by Triatoma gerstaeckeri Stål in TX. Here, we ask if T. cruzi infection dynamics in dogs varies along this border region, potentially reflecting changes in vector species and their vectorial capacity. Using reversible catalytic models of infection, where seropositivity can be lost, we estimated an R0 (Estimate ± S.E.) of 1.192 ± 0.084 for TX and NM. In contrast, seropositivity decayed to zero as dogs aged in AZ and CA. These results suggest that dogs are likely infected by T. cruzi during their training in western TX, with a force of infection large enough for keeping R0 above 1, i.e., the disease endemically established, in TX and NM. In AZ and CA, a lower force of infection, probably associated with different vector species communities and associated vectorial capacity and/or different lineages of T. cruzi, results in dogs decreasing their seropositivity with age.

Selección contra displasia de cadera canina en el ovejero alemán / Breeding against canine hip dysplasia in the german shepherd dog

RESUMEN La displasia de cadera canina o displasia coxo-femoral (DCF) es un desorden progresivo e incapacitante en perros de razas grandes, como el Ovejero Alemán. La selección de reproductores libres de displasia es la única forma de reducir su incidencia. Se han desarrollado varios métodos de diagnóstico basados en el examen radiográfico, en base a los cuales se seleccionan los reproductores para la cría. La DCF tiene una base hereditaria poligénica e influencia ambiental, con una heredabilidad media a baja (alrededor de 0,20 a 0,40), por lo que el progreso de la selección fenotípica ha sido lento. En Argentina la prevalencia de la displasia en la raza sigue siendo alta (>25%) y es imposible prever su incidencia en la progenie del plantel de cría. Algunos países han implementado la selección basada en el valor estimado de cría, obteniendo un importante avance. Los estudios de asociación del genoma completo han revelado numerosos marcadores asociados a la DCF y se han encontrado varios genes candidatos que señalan la posibilidad de implementar una selección genómica en un futuro cercano.

ABSTRACT Canine hip dysplasia (CHD) is a progressive and disabling disorder in large dog breeds, such as the German Shepherd dog. Breeding sires and dams free of dysplasia is the only way to reduce its incidence. Several diagnostic methods have been developed based on radiographic examination, on the basis of which dogs are selected for breeding. CHD has a polygenic hereditary basis and environmental influence, with a median to low heritability (ca. 0,20 to 0,40), so the progress in phenotypic selection has been slow. In Argentina, the prevalence of dysplasia in German Shepherd dogs remains high (> 25%) and it is impossible to predict its incidence in the offspring of the breeding stock. Some countries have implemented a selection based on the estimated breeding value, obtaining an important advance. Genomewide association studies have revealed numerous CHD-associated markers and several candidate genes have been found that point to the possibility of implementing genomic selection in the near future.

Clinical-epidemiological, anatomic-pathological, histochemical and immunohistochemical characterization of renal cystadenocarcinoma-nodular dermatofibrosis syndrome in 11 German Shepherd dogs / Caracterização clínico-epidemiológica, anátomo-patológica, histoquímica e imuno-histoquímica da síndrome cistadenocarcinoma-dermatofibrose nodular em 11 cães Pastor Alemão

Eleven cases of renal cystadenoma/cystadenocarcinoma-nodular dermatofibrosis syndrome (RCND) are described in German Shepherd dogs diagnosed from January 1994 to January 2018 at the Veterinary Pathology Laboratory of the "Universidade Federal de Santa Maria" (LPV-UFSM). The study sample was composed of eight male and three female dogs at a ratio of 2.67:1. Age ranged from six to 12 years (mean=8.7 years). The main clinical signs reported in descending order of frequency were multiple cutaneous nodules (nodular dermatofibrosis), dyspnea, anorexia, weight loss, recurrent hematuria, vomiting, and polydipsia. Results demonstrated that it is not always easy to clinically recognize this syndrome, but its peculiar anatomical-pathological characteristics allow safe diagnosis. Histologically, it was possible to detect all phases (cysts, papillary intratubular hyperplasia, and cystadenomas or cystadenocarcinomas) of a possible pathological continuum of the renal lesions. Uterine leiomyomas were observed in only one of the cases. Through histochemical techniques, it was possible to identify the presence of type I collagen in both cutaneous and renal lesions and consider its possible involvement in the pathogenesis of renal cystadenocarcinoma. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) showed partially satisfactory results in the staining of epithelial cells of renal cysts and neoplasms for pan-cytokeratin.(AU)

São descritos 11 casos da síndrome cistadenoma/cistadenocarcinoma-dermatofibrose nodular (CR-DN) em cães Pastor Alemão, diagnosticados entre janeiro de 1994 e janeiro de 2018 no Laboratório de Patologia Veterinária da Universidade Federal de Santa Maria (LPV-UFSM). Os cães afetados foram oito machos e três fêmeas, estabelecendo-se uma relação de 2,67:1. A idade variou de seis a 12 anos, sendo a média de idade de 8,7 anos. Os principais sinais clínicos relatados foram, em ordem decrescente de frequência, múltiplos nódulos cutâneos (dermatofibrose nodular), dispneia, anorexia, emagrecimento, hematúria recorrente, vômito e polidipsia. Este estudo permitiu estabelecer que o reconhecimento clínico da síndrome nem sempre é fácil, porém suas características anátomo-patológicas peculiares permitem um diagnóstico com segurança. Histologicamente, foi possível detectar todas as fases (cistos, hiperplasia intratubular papilífera, cistadenomas ou cistadenocarcinomas) de um possível continuum patológico das lesões renais. Leiomiomas uterinos foram observados somente em um caso. Através das técnicas histoquímicas foi possível estabelecer que o colágeno tipo I está presente em ambas as lesões, cutâneas e renais, e cogitar seu possível envolvimento na patogênese dos cistadenocarcinomas renais. A técnica de IHQ mostrou resultados parcialmente satisfatórios na imunomarcação das células epiteliais dos cistos e dos neoplasmas renais para pancitoceratina.(AU)

Clinical-epidemiological, anatomic-pathological, histochemical and immunohistochemical characterization of renal cystadenocarcinoma-nodular dermatofibrosis syndrome in 11 German Shepherd dogs / Caracterização clínico-epidemiológica, anátomo-patológica, histoquímica e imuno-histoquímica da síndrome cistadenocarcinoma-dermatofibrose nodular em 11 cães Pastor Alemão

Eleven cases of renal cystadenoma/cystadenocarcinoma-nodular dermatofibrosis syndrome (RCND) are described in German Shepherd dogs diagnosed from January 1994 to January 2018 at the Veterinary Pathology Laboratory of the "Universidade Federal de Santa Maria" (LPV-UFSM). The study sample was composed of eight male and three female dogs at a ratio of 2.67:1. Age ranged from six to 12 years (mean=8.7 years). The main clinical signs reported in descending order of frequency were multiple cutaneous nodules (nodular dermatofibrosis), dyspnea, anorexia, weight loss, recurrent hematuria, vomiting, and polydipsia. Results demonstrated that it is not always easy to clinically recognize this syndrome, but its peculiar anatomical-pathological characteristics allow safe diagnosis. Histologically, it was possible to detect all phases (cysts, papillary intratubular hyperplasia, and cystadenomas or cystadenocarcinomas) of a possible pathological continuum of the renal lesions. Uterine leiomyomas were observed in only one of the cases. Through histochemical techniques, it was possible to identify the presence of type I collagen in both cutaneous and renal lesions and consider its possible involvement in the pathogenesis of renal cystadenocarcinoma. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) showed partially satisfactory results in the staining of epithelial cells of renal cysts and neoplasms for pan-cytokeratin.(AU)

São descritos 11 casos da síndrome cistadenoma/cistadenocarcinoma-dermatofibrose nodular (CR-DN) em cães Pastor Alemão, diagnosticados entre janeiro de 1994 e janeiro de 2018 no Laboratório de Patologia Veterinária da Universidade Federal de Santa Maria (LPV-UFSM). Os cães afetados foram oito machos e três fêmeas, estabelecendo-se uma relação de 2,67:1. A idade variou de seis a 12 anos, sendo a média de idade de 8,7 anos. Os principais sinais clínicos relatados foram, em ordem decrescente de frequência, múltiplos nódulos cutâneos (dermatofibrose nodular), dispneia, anorexia, emagrecimento, hematúria recorrente, vômito e polidipsia. Este estudo permitiu estabelecer que o reconhecimento clínico da síndrome nem sempre é fácil, porém suas características anátomo-patológicas peculiares permitem um diagnóstico com segurança. Histologicamente, foi possível detectar todas as fases (cistos, hiperplasia intratubular papilífera, cistadenomas ou cistadenocarcinomas) de um possível continuum patológico das lesões renais. Leiomiomas uterinos foram observados somente em um caso. Através das técnicas histoquímicas foi possível estabelecer que o colágeno tipo I está presente em ambas as lesões, cutâneas e renais, e cogitar seu possível envolvimento na patogênese dos cistadenocarcinomas renais. A técnica de IHQ mostrou resultados parcialmente satisfatórios na imunomarcação das células epiteliais dos cistos e dos neoplasmas renais para pancitoceratina.(AU)

Clinical-epidemiological, anatomic-pathological, histochemical and immunohistochemical characterization of renal cystadenocarcinoma-nodular dermatofibrosis syndrome in 11 German Shepherd dogs

ABSTRACT: Eleven cases of renal cystadenoma/cystadenocarcinoma-nodular dermatofibrosis syndrome (RCND) are described in German Shepherd dogs diagnosed from January 1994 to January 2018 at the Veterinary Pathology Laboratory of the Universidade Federal de Santa Maria (LPV-UFSM). The study sample was composed of eight male and three female dogs at a ratio of 2.67:1. Age ranged from six to 12 years (mean=8.7 years). The main clinical signs reported in descending order of frequency were multiple cutaneous nodules (nodular dermatofibrosis), dyspnea, anorexia, weight loss, recurrent hematuria, vomiting, and polydipsia. Results demonstrated that it is not always easy to clinically recognize this syndrome, but its peculiar anatomical-pathological characteristics allow safe diagnosis. Histologically, it was possible to detect all phases (cysts, papillary intratubular hyperplasia, and cystadenomas or cystadenocarcinomas) of a possible pathological continuum of the renal lesions. Uterine leiomyomas were observed in only one of the cases. Through histochemical techniques, it was possible to identify the presence of type I collagen in both cutaneous and renal lesions and consider its possible involvement in the pathogenesis of renal cystadenocarcinoma. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) showed partially satisfactory results in the staining of epithelial cells of renal cysts and neoplasms for pan-cytokeratin.

RESUMO: São descritos 11 casos da síndrome cistadenoma/cistadenocarcinoma-dermatofibrose nodular (CR-DN) em cães Pastor Alemão, diagnosticados entre janeiro de 1994 e janeiro de 2018 no Laboratório de Patologia Veterinária da Universidade Federal de Santa Maria (LPV-UFSM). Os cães afetados foram oito machos e três fêmeas, estabelecendo-se uma relação de 2,67:1. A idade variou de seis a 12 anos, sendo a média de idade de 8,7 anos. Os principais sinais clínicos relatados foram, em ordem decrescente de frequência, múltiplos nódulos cutâneos (dermatofibrose nodular), dispneia, anorexia, emagrecimento, hematúria recorrente, vômito e polidipsia. Este estudo permitiu estabelecer que o reconhecimento clínico da síndrome nem sempre é fácil, porém suas características anátomo-patológicas peculiares permitem um diagnóstico com segurança. Histologicamente, foi possível detectar todas as fases (cistos, hiperplasia intratubular papilífera, cistadenomas ou cistadenocarcinomas) de um possível continuum patológico das lesões renais. Leiomiomas uterinos foram observados somente em um caso. Através das técnicas histoquímicas foi possível estabelecer que o colágeno tipo I está presente em ambas as lesões, cutâneas e renais, e cogitar seu possível envolvimento na patogênese dos cistadenocarcinomas renais. A técnica de IHQ mostrou resultados parcialmente satisfatórios na imunomarcação das células epiteliais dos cistos e dos neoplasmas renais para pancitoceratina.

Needle muscle biopsy: technique validation and histological and histochemical methods for evaluating canine skeletal muscles / Biópsia muscular por agulha: validação da técnica e dos métodos histológicos e histoquímicos na avaliação do músculo esquelético de cães

This study evaluated the needle muscle biopsy technique using a 6G Bergstrõm percutaneous needle combined with histological and histochemical methods to analyze the skeletal muscle of dogs. There are few studies about canine skeletal muscles and a lack of reports in the literature about tissue collection and analysis for canine species. Evaluation of 32 German Shepherd samples collected from the gluteus medius, at a depth of 3 cm, was performed. The choice of gluteus medius and the 3-cm depth provided good quantity fragments with sufficient sizes (35 mm), which permitted optimal visualization of muscle fibers. Myosin ATPase, at pH 9.4, 4.6, and 4.3, and SDH reactions revealed that all muscle samples analyzed had fibers in the classic mosaic arrangement, enabling counting and typification. The mean percentages of fibers were 29.95% for type I and 70.05% for type II. On the basis of these results, we concluded that the percutaneous needle biopsy technique for canine skeletal muscles is a safe and easy procedure that obtains fragments of proper sizes, thereby enabling the study of muscle fibers. Standardization of the muscle of choice and the depth of muscle sample collection significantly contributed to this success. This is an important method to evaluate muscle fiber types of dogs and diagnose important diseases affecting the skeletal muscles.(AU)

O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a técnica de biopsia muscular por agulha de biópsia percutânea tipo Bergstrõm nº seis, e os métodos histológicos e histoquímicos utilizados na análise do músculo esquelético de cães, uma vez que estudos sobre a musculatura esquelética em cães são poucos o que acarreta um número pequeno de relatos na literatura sobre métodos de coleta e análise desse tecido nessa determinada espécie. Foram avaliadas amostras de 32 animais da raça Pastor Alemão coletadas do músculo glúteo médio a uma profundidade de três centímetros. A escolha da profundidade de três centímetros e do músculo Glúteo Médio em cães da raça Pastor Alemão denotou fragmentos colhidos com suficiente viabilidade, bons padrões de tamanho (entre três e cinco milímetros) e boa quantidade e qualidade, permitindo ótima visualização das fibras musculares dos animais da amostra. Nas reações enzimo-histoquímicas da miosina ATPase no pH 9.4, 4.6 e 4.3 e SDH todos os músculos examinados apresentavam a distribuição das fibras musculares com o clássico padrão de mosaico, possibilitando a contagem e a diferenciação dos diferentes tipos. O valor médio de fibras tipo I foi de 29,95% e o valor médio de fibras tipo II, 70,05%. Com base nesses resultados, pode-se concluir que a técnica de biopsia com agulha percutânea utilizada em músculo esquelético de caninos, demonstrou ser um procedimento seguro e de fácil recuperação, obtendo fragmentos de tamanho adequado e, portanto, viabilizando o estudo. A padronização do músculo e da profundidade de coleta da amostra muscular teve contribuição importante. Sendo um importante meio para avaliar os tipos de fibras musculares em cães e no diagnóstico de importantes enfermidades que acometem a musculatura esquelética.(AU)

Needle muscle biopsy: technique validation and histological and histochemical methods for evaluating canine skeletal muscles / Biópsia muscular por agulha: validação da técnica e dos métodos histológicos e histoquímicos na avaliação do músculo esquelético de cães

This study evaluated the needle muscle biopsy technique using a 6G Bergstrõm percutaneous needle combined with histological and histochemical methods to analyze the skeletal muscle of dogs. There are few studies about canine skeletal muscles and a lack of reports in the literature about tissue collection and analysis for canine species. Evaluation of 32 German Shepherd samples collected from the gluteus medius, at a depth of 3 cm, was performed. The choice of gluteus medius and the 3-cm depth provided good quantity fragments with sufficient sizes (35 mm), which permitted optimal visualization of muscle fibers. Myosin ATPase, at pH 9.4, 4.6, and 4.3, and SDH reactions revealed that all muscle samples analyzed had fibers in the classic mosaic arrangement, enabling counting and typification. The mean percentages of fibers were 29.95% for type I and 70.05% for type II. On the basis of these results, we concluded that the percutaneous needle biopsy technique for canine skeletal muscles is a safe and easy procedure that obtains fragments of proper sizes, thereby enabling the study of muscle fibers. Standardization of the muscle of choice and the depth of muscle sample collection significantly contributed to this success. This is an important method to evaluate muscle fiber types of dogs and diagnose important diseases affecting the skeletal muscles.

O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a técnica de biopsia muscular por agulha de biópsia percutânea tipo Bergstrõm nº seis, e os métodos histológicos e histoquímicos utilizados na análise do músculo esquelético de cães, uma vez que estudos sobre a musculatura esquelética em cães são poucos o que acarreta um número pequeno de relatos na literatura sobre métodos de coleta e análise desse tecido nessa determinada espécie. Foram avaliadas amostras de 32 animais da raça Pastor Alemão coletadas do músculo glúteo médio a uma profundidade de três centímetros. A escolha da profundidade de três centímetros e do músculo Glúteo Médio em cães da raça Pastor Alemão denotou fragmentos colhidos com suficiente viabilidade, bons padrões de tamanho (entre três e cinco milímetros) e boa quantidade e qualidade, permitindo ótima visualização das fibras musculares dos animais da amostra. Nas reações enzimo-histoquímicas da miosina ATPase no pH 9.4, 4.6 e 4.3 e SDH todos os músculos examinados apresentavam a distribuição das fibras musculares com o clássico padrão de mosaico, possibilitando a contagem e a diferenciação dos diferentes tipos. O valor médio de fibras tipo I foi de 29,95% e o valor médio de fibras tipo II, 70,05%. Com base nesses resultados, pode-se concluir que a técnica de biopsia com agulha percutânea utilizada em músculo esquelético de caninos, demonstrou ser um procedimento seguro e de fácil recuperação, obtendo fragmentos de tamanho adequado e, portanto, viabilizando o estudo. A padronização do músculo e da profundidade de coleta da amostra muscular teve contribuição importante. Sendo um importante meio para avaliar os tipos de fibras musculares em cães e no diagnóstico de importantes enfermidades que acometem a musculatura esquelética.

Massive attack by honeybees in a German shepherd dog: description of a fatal case and review of the literature

In the present study, a fatal case caused by honeybee (Apis cerana) stings was documented in a female German shepherd dog that was presented at the Veterinary Teaching Hospital, University of Agriculture Faisalabad, Pakistan. Characteristic clinical signs included hematuria, hematemesis, incoordination and convulsions along with evidence of massive honeybee attack supported the diagnosis of envenomation. The dog was treated with dexamethasone and diphenhydramine, but it did not respond to therapy and died. This outcome could be avoided if we had a bee antivenom available for treating envenomated patients.

Massive attack by honeybees in a German shepherd dog: description of a fatal case and review of the literature

In the present study, a fatal case caused by honeybee (Apis cerana) stings was documented in a female German shepherd dog that was presented at the Veterinary Teaching Hospital, University of Agriculture Faisalabad, Pakistan. Characteristic clinical signs included hematuria, hematemesis, incoordination and convulsions along with evidence of massive honeybee attack supported the diagnosis of envenomation. The dog was treated with dexamethasone and diphenhydramine, but it did not respond to therapy and died. This outcome could be avoided if we had a bee antivenom available for treating envenomated patients.(AU)

Massive attack by honeybees in a German shepherd dog: description of a fatal case and review of the literature.

In the present study, a fatal case caused by honeybee (Apis cerana) stings was documented in a female German shepherd dog that was presented at the Veterinary Teaching Hospital, University of Agriculture Faisalabad, Pakistan. Characteristic clinical signs included hematuria, hematemesis, incoordination and convulsions along with evidence of massive honeybee attack supported the diagnosis of envenomation. The dog was treated with dexamethasone and diphenhydramine, but it did not respond to therapy and died. This outcome could be avoided if we had a bee antivenom available for treating envenomated patients.

Massive attack by honeybees in a German shepherd dog: description of a fatal case and review of the literature

In the present study, a fatal case caused by honeybee (Apis cerana) stings was documented in a female German shepherd dog that was presented at the Veterinary Teaching Hospital, University of Agriculture Faisalabad, Pakistan. Characteristic clinical signs included hematuria, hematemesis, incoordination and convulsions along with evidence of massive honeybee attack supported the diagnosis of envenomation. The dog was treated with dexamethasone and diphenhydramine, but it did not respond to therapy and died. This outcome could be avoided if we had a bee antivenom available for treating envenomated patients.(AU)

A study of the association between chronic superficial keratitis and polymorphisms in the upstream regulatory regions of DLA-DRB1, DLA-DQB1 and DLA-DQA1.

Canine chronic superficial keratitis (CSK) is an inflammatory corneal disease that primarily occurs in German shepherd dogs (GSDs). Several studies support the hypothesis that CSK is an immune-mediated disease. To investigate the genetic factors associated with CSK development, the upstream regulatory regions (URRs) of the DLA-DRB, -DQA and -DQB genes were genotyped in 60 dogs, including 32 CSK animals. LD analysis identified two blocks (r(2)≤45), with two DLA-DRB1 and five DLA-DQB1 haplotypes. Analysis of DLA-URR alleles/haplotypes showed a significant association between DQB1*-154 [C/T] (p=0.016) and CSK, suggesting that the T variant may increase the risk for developing CSK disease (OR=3, 95% CI=1.25-7.68). When haplotype associations were performed, the URR-DQB*CATT haplotype was significantly associated with CSK (p=0.016), increasing the risk of develop this disease over two-fold (OR=3, 95%, CI=1.25-7.68). These results showed that dogs homozygous at DRB1*69 [C/T] had a risk for developing CSK disease that was over four times the risk for heterozygotes. This genetic association supports the previous clinical, histological and pharmacological studies that suggest that CSK is an immune-mediated disease, and this association could potentially be used to identify susceptible animals.

Nanismo por deficiência combinada de hormônios pituitários emum cão Pastor Alemão / Dwarfism due to combined pituitary hormone deficiency in a Germ an Shepherd Dog

O nanismo hipofisário é uma condição rara caracterizada pela deficiência congênita do hormônio docrescimento (GH). No Pastor Alemão, a doença é transmitida por um gene autossômico recessivo e podeocorrer de forma isolada ou em conjunto com a deficiência de outros hormônios da adenohipófise. Opresente trabalho relata a evolução clínica de um cão pastor alemão com deficiência combinada de hormônioshipofisários. Além da estatura reduzida, o cão demonstrava retardo no desenvolvimento mental,macroglossia, pelagem de filhote e persistência dos dentes decíduos. As alterações bioquímicas incluíramhipercolesterolemia e hipertrigliceridemia. As dosagens séricas de IGF-1 (5,0 nmol/L referência 4,0 a95,0), Tiroxina total (1,9 ng/mL referência 15 a 30), Tiroxina livre por diálise de equilíbrio (0,04 ng/dL –referência 0,08 a 3,0) e Tireotropina (TSH) (0,05 ng/ml referência 0,05 a 0,5) confirmaram o diagnósticode nanismo pituitário e hipotireoidismo secundário. Apesar do tratamento com hormônio tireoidiano, aausência de reposição do hormônio do crescimento resultou na progressão da doença e desenvolvimentode apatia, alopecia generalizada e hipotonia dérmica. Deficiências combinadas de GH e TSH já foramdescritas no Pastor Alemão em outros países, mas este parece ser o primeiro caso relatado no Brasil.(AU)

Pituitary dwarfism is a rare condition characterized by congenital deficiency of growth hormone (GH).In the German shepherd, GH deficiency is transmitted by an autosomal recessive gene and can occurisolated or combined with other pituitary hormones deficiencies. The present study describes the clinicalcourse of a German shepherd dog with combined pituitary hormone deficiency. Besides the stuntedgrowth, the dog showed delayed mental development, macroglossia, puppy hair coat and persistence ofdeciduous teeth. Biochemical abnormalities included hypercholesterolemia and hypertriglyceridemia.The serum levels of IGF-1 (5.0 nmol / L - reference 4.0 to 95.0), total thyroxine (1.9 ng / mL - reference15 to 30), free thyroxine by equilibrium dialysis (0, 04 ng / dL - reference 0.08 to 3.0) and thyrotropin(TSH) (0.05 ng / ml - reference 0.05 to 0.5) confirmed the diagnosis of pituitary dwarfism and secondaryhypothyroidism. Despite the thyroid hormone replacement, the absence of growth hormone treatmentresulted in disease progression and development of generalized alopecia and hypotonic skin. Combineddeficiencies of GH and TSH have been described in the German Shepherd in other countries, but thisseems to be the first report in Brazil.(AU)

Nanismo por deficiência combinada de hormônios pituitários emum cão Pastor Alemão / Dwarfism due to combined pituitary hormone deficiency in a Germ an Shepherd Dog

O nanismo hipofisário é uma condição rara caracterizada pela deficiência congênita do hormônio docrescimento (GH). No Pastor Alemão, a doença é transmitida por um gene autossômico recessivo e podeocorrer de forma isolada ou em conjunto com a deficiência de outros hormônios da adenohipófise. Opresente trabalho relata a evolução clínica de um cão pastor alemão com deficiência combinada de hormônioshipofisários. Além da estatura reduzida, o cão demonstrava retardo no desenvolvimento mental,macroglossia, pelagem de filhote e persistência dos dentes decíduos. As alterações bioquímicas incluíramhipercolesterolemia e hipertrigliceridemia. As dosagens séricas de IGF-1 (5,0 nmol/L – referência 4,0 a95,0), Tiroxina total (1,9 ng/mL – referência 15 a 30), Tiroxina livre por diálise de equilíbrio (0,04 ng/dL –referência 0,08 a 3,0) e Tireotropina (TSH) (0,05 ng/ml – referência 0,05 a 0,5) confirmaram o diagnósticode nanismo pituitário e hipotireoidismo secundário. Apesar do tratamento com hormônio tireoidiano, aausência de reposição do hormônio do crescimento resultou na progressão da doença e desenvolvimentode apatia, alopecia generalizada e hipotonia dérmica. Deficiências combinadas de GH e TSH já foramdescritas no Pastor Alemão em outros países, mas este parece ser o primeiro caso relatado no Brasil.

Pituitary dwarfism is a rare condition characterized by congenital deficiency of growth hormone (GH).In the German shepherd, GH deficiency is transmitted by an autosomal recessive gene and can occurisolated or combined with other pituitary hormones deficiencies. The present study describes the clinicalcourse of a German shepherd dog with combined pituitary hormone deficiency. Besides the stuntedgrowth, the dog showed delayed mental development, macroglossia, puppy hair coat and persistence ofdeciduous teeth. Biochemical abnormalities included hypercholesterolemia and hypertriglyceridemia.The serum levels of IGF-1 (5.0 nmol / L - reference 4.0 to 95.0), total thyroxine (1.9 ng / mL - reference15 to 30), free thyroxine by equilibrium dialysis (0, 04 ng / dL - reference 0.08 to 3.0) and thyrotropin(TSH) (0.05 ng / ml - reference 0.05 to 0.5) confirmed the diagnosis of pituitary dwarfism and secondaryhypothyroidism. Despite the thyroid hormone replacement, the absence of growth hormone treatmentresulted in disease progression and development of generalized alopecia and hypotonic skin. Combineddeficiencies of GH and TSH have been described in the German Shepherd in other countries, but thisseems to be the first report in Brazil.

Presentación sistémica de Aspergillus spp con semiología neurológica en un Pastor Alemán: informe de un caso clínico / Systemic presentation of Aspergillus spp with neurological involvement in a German Shepherd: clinical case report

Infections of the central nervous system are uncommon in dogs. Pathogenic fungi such as Aspergillus, Cryptococcus spp, Blastomyces dermatitidis and Coccidioides immitis have been reported. An Aspergillus infection is mainly a respiratory event and very seldom it may become disseminated, the German shepherd seems to be the more prone to this type of aspergillosis specially if an immunological deficiency is present. A 1.5 year old female German Shepherd from Cancun, Quintana Roo, State, in the southeast of Mexico was presented to the small animal hospital, she showed tetraparesis, hiporeflex and deep retarded sensitivity in all four members, loss of sensitivity in the left side of the face, absence of pupil reflex and menace reflex as well as absence of muscular tone of the vulva and anal sphincter. The third day after presentation, she died. At necropsy polyencephalomalace, mielitis and diffuse leucomielitis piogranomalotosus were found. In the cytology of lymph node and other tissues aspergilli like hiphae were observed, this was confirmed by using the highly specific double diffusion test. Then, a PCR test was carried out with tissue fixed in 10% formaldehyde, but it failed probably due to destruction of the DNA.

La infección del sistema nervioso en el perro es poco común; posibles causas son Aspergillus spp, Cryptococcus neoformans, Blastomyces dermatidis y Coccidioides immitis. La infección por Aspergillus spp afecta al aparato respiratorio y en pocas ocasiones se presenta de manera diseminada. Sin embargo, en el Pastor Alemán hay mayor incidencia de éste, pues dicha infección se asocia con una deficiencia inmunológica. Se describe el caso de una perra de raza Pastor Alemán, de 1.5 años de edad, referida de Cancún, Quintana Roo, México, con tetraparesis, hiporreflexia y sensibilidad profunda retardada en los cuatro miembros, disminución de sensibilidad en el lado derecho de la cara y ausencia de reflejo pupilar y de amenaza en ojo derecho; además de ausencia de tono vulvar y de esfínter anal. A los tres días después del ingreso la perra falleció. A la necropsia se encontró polioencefalomalacia, mielitis y leucomielitis piogranulomatosa difusa. En la citología de linfonodo y en la histopatología de diferentes tejidos se identificaron hifas compatibles con Aspergillus spp. Con el fin de dar certeza al diagnóstico, se realizó prueba de doble inmunodifusión, que es altamente específica, la cual confirmó el diagnóstico de Aspergillus spp. Posteriormente se corrió PCR a partir de una muestra de tejido en formalina al 10%, para identificar la especie, en donde no se lograron resultados, probablemente debido a la destrucción del ADN por el formaldehído.

Avaliação por eletrocardiografia contínua (holter) em cães da raça Pastor Alemão praticantes de atividade física regular / Ambulatory electrocardiography (Holter) evaluation in physically active German shepherd dogs

The pattern for ambulatory electrocardiography was evaluated in 25 healthy German Shepherd dogs. The influences of gender, age, and physical activity in HR maximum, mean, and minimum (HRmx, HRme, and HRmin, respectively) were studied. The physically active dogs (PA) showed lower HRme than sedentary animals (S) (P=0.03), whereas HRmx and HRmin were not altered (P=0.06 and P=0.65, respectively). The HRme was 80.89±13.85 for PA and 112.94±35.71 for S. No effect of gender and age on HR was observed. It is possible to state that the physical activity can modulate the sinus node of the dogs.(AU)

Megaesófago por persistencia del cuarto arco aórtico derecho en un perro pastor alemán / Megaesophagus due to persistence of the fourth right aortic arch in a german shepherd dog

Se diagnosticó un megaesófago secundario por anomalías de anillo vascular a una hembra, de raza Pastor Alemán, de nueve semanas de edad, con historia de regurgitación intermitente posterior al destete, problemas respiratorios, pérdida de peso y retraso en el crecimiento. Un estudio radiográfico simple de tórax y un esofagograma usando como material de contraste el bario, confirmaron la presencia de una gran dilatación esofágica craneal a la base del corazón, conformada por tres saculaciones. Un mes después, la paciente fue sometida a una toracotomía intercostal izquierda para seccionar el ligamento arterioso y liberar la constricción esofágica, lo que permitió establecer el diagnóstico definitivo de megaesófago secundario adquirido, por persistencia del cuarto arco aórtico derecho. Luego de la cirugía, se inició un método de alimentación en un plano elevado, con una dieta blanda, la cual se mantuvo con leves variaciones de manera permanente. La paciente mostró remisión completa de los signos clínicos a pesar de la persistencia del megaesófago, reafirmando que la corrección quirúrgica del anillo vascular y un método de alimentación apropiado, permiten controlar la enfermedad a largo plazo. Se presenta la evolución clínica de la paciente durante 11 años, y los resultados de los estudios radiográficos realizados durante ese período.

A secondary megaesophagus, as a result of vascular ring anomalies, was diagnosed in a nine-week old female German Shepherd dog, with a history of intermittent regurgitation soon after weaning, respiratory disturbances, weight loss and growth retardation. A survey thoracic radiographs and a barium esophagogram confirmed the presence of a large esophageal dilatation cranial to the base of the heart, formed by three sacculations. A month later, the patient underwent a left intercostal thoracotomy to transect the ligamentum arteriosum to release the esophageal constriction. This procedure allowed to establish the definitive diagnosis of acquired secondary megaesophagus due to persistence of the fourth right aortic arch. After surgery, a feeding method was restarted in an upright position, with a soft diet, which was maintained with slight variations on a permanent basis. The patient showed a complete remission of clinical signs, despite the persistence of the megaesophagus, reaffirming that both the surgical correction of the vascular ring and an appropriate feeding method, help in controlling the disease in the long term. A report of the clinical evolution of the patient over 11 years and the results of radiographic studies conducted throughout this period are shown.

Cistadenocarcinoma renal e dermatofibrose nodular em cães pastor alemão: 4 casos

Renal cystadenocarcinoma-nodular dermatofibrosis syndrome of German shepherd are described in four 6 to 10-year-old male dogs. Clinical findings included hematuria and urinary retention, progressive weight loss, polydipsia, anorexia, vomiting, and respiratory distress. Several recurrent skin nodules were observed in one of the dogs. Three dogs died spontaneously and one was euthanatized. Main gross findings included multifocal to coalescent skin nodules and multiple nodules, mostly cystic, in both kidneys. Microscopically there was nodular dermatofibrosis in the skin and renal cysts, dysplastic, hyperplastic and neoplastic changes of the renal tubular epithelium. The neoplasms were classified as cystadenoma in one case and cystadenocarcinoma in the other three. There were metastases in the liver, spleen and lung of one dog and in the renal lymph node in another one.

São descritos quatro casos da síndrome cistadenocarcinoma renal-dermatofibrose nodular em Pastor Alemão. Todos eram cães machos, com idades entre 6 e 10 anos. Os aspectos clínicos incluíam hematúria e retenção urinária, emagrecimento progressivo, anorexia, vômito, polidipsia e dificuldade respiratória. Em um animal, foram observados múltiplos nódulos recidivantes na pele. Três cães tiveram morte espontânea e um foi submetido à eutanásia. Os principais achados de necropsia incluíram nódulos multifocais ou coalescentes na pele e múltiplos nódulos, muitas vezes císticos, em ambos os rins. Na avaliação histológica, observaram-se dermatofibrose nodular na pele e cistos, hiperplasia, displasia e neoplasia de células epiteliais dos túbulos renais. As neoplasias foram classificadas como cistadenoma em um dos casos e como cistadenocarcinoma nos outros três. Metástases foram observadas em dois casos: no fígado, no baço e no pulmão em um cão e no linfonodo renal em outro.

Cistadenocarcinoma renal e dermatofibrose nodular em cães pastor alemão: 4 casos

Renal cystadenocarcinoma-nodular dermatofibrosis syndrome of German shepherd are described in four 6 to 10-year-old male dogs. Clinical findings included hematuria and urinary retention, progressive weight loss, polydipsia, anorexia, vomiting, and respiratory distress. Several recurrent skin nodules were observed in one of the dogs. Three dogs died spontaneously and one was euthanatized. Main gross findings included multifocal to coalescent skin nodules and multiple nodules, mostly cystic, in both kidneys. Microscopically there was nodular dermatofibrosis in the skin and renal cysts, dysplastic, hyperplastic and neoplastic changes of the renal tubular epithelium. The neoplasms were classified as cystadenoma in one case and cystadenocarcinoma in the other three. There were metastases in the liver, spleen and lung of one dog and in the renal lymph node in another one.

São descritos quatro casos da síndrome cistadenocarcinoma renal-dermatofibrose nodular em Pastor Alemão. Todos eram cães machos, com idades entre 6 e 10 anos. Os aspectos clínicos incluíam hematúria e retenção urinária, emagrecimento progressivo, anorexia, vômito, polidipsia e dificuldade respiratória. Em um animal, foram observados múltiplos nódulos recidivantes na pele. Três cães tiveram morte espontânea e um foi submetido à eutanásia. Os principais achados de necropsia incluíram nódulos multifocais ou coalescentes na pele e múltiplos nódulos, muitas vezes císticos, em ambos os rins. Na avaliação histológica, observaram-se dermatofibrose nodular na pele e cistos, hiperplasia, displasia e neoplasia de células epiteliais dos túbulos renais. As neoplasias foram classificadas como cistadenoma em um dos casos e como cistadenocarcinoma nos outros três. Metástases foram observadas em dois casos: no fígado, no baço e no pulmão em um cão e no linfonodo renal em outro.

Seminal characteristics of German Shepherd dogs / Características seminais de cães da raça pastor alemão

Semen was collected by masturbation from 25 German Shepherd dogs, 1 to 7 years old and weight from 30 to 35 kg. Aiming to utilize the semen for artificial insemination, only the second and partial third fractions were used. Results were as follows: mean ejaculation volume 7.17 ml; white colour and milky aspect: sperm motility 68.84%; vigour 3.5; concentration 136.192 spermatozoa/mm3 and 889.772.000 spermatozoa by ejaculation: 9.92% of major defects, 7.62% of minor defects and still an individual abnormalities classification. The pH of semen, of extenders and of extended semen, respectively, varied from 6.02 to 6.60; 5.85 to 6.90 and 5.97 to 6.76: osmotic pressure of 285.20 to 295.00; 240.00 to 310.00 and 272.32 to 303.92 mOlm and sodium and potassium concentrations, respectively, to seminal plasma and 4 extenders, 134.40 to 156.00 and 7.80 to 13.72 and 3.00 to 270.00 and 6.00 to 25.00 mEq/l. There was significant variation among dogs, in all seminal characteristics, except for osmotic pressure. There was also correlation between the seminal characteristics and between these and total sperm abnormalities. Variability of seminal characteristics among dogs is greater when comparing collections of each animal, with exception of osmotic pressure and sodium concentration variability that is reversed.

Sêmen de 25 cães da raça Pastor Alemão, com 1 a 7 anos de idade e pesando 30 a 35 quilos, foi coletado por masturbação. Com o objetivo de utilizar o material para inseminação artificial, colheu-se a segunda e parte da terceira fração, constatando-se, em média, volume de 7,17 ml; cor branca e aspecto leitoso; motilidade de 68,84%; vigor de 3,5; concentração de 136.192 espermatozóides por mm3 e de 889.772.000 por ejaculado; defeitos espermáticos maiores de 9,92% e menores de 7,62%. O pH do sêmen, dos diluidores e do sêmen diluído variou, respectivamente, de 6,02 a 6,60; 5,85 a 6,90; e 5,97 a 6,76; a pressão osmótica de 285,20 a 295,00; 240,00 a 310,00; e 272,32 a 303,92 mOsmois e a concentração de sódio e potássio, respectivamente, para o plasma seminal e os 4 diluidores, de 134,40 a 156,00; 7,80 a 13,72; 3,00 a 270,00; e 6,00 a 25,00 mEq/l. Verificou-se que entre cães, houve variação significante de todas as características seminais, exceto a pressão osmótica e, ainda, correlações entre os caracteres seminais e entre estes e os totais de patologias espermáticas. A variabilidade das características seminais entre os cães foi bem maior quando comparada entre as colheitas de cada animal, exceto a pressão osmótica e a concentração de sódio, que se apresentaram de maneira inversa.