Computed tomographic evaluation of portal vein indices in cats with the extrahepatic portosystemic shunts.

IMPORTANCE: The portal vein to aorta (PV/Ao) ratio is used to assess the clinical significance of extrahepatic portosystemic shunt (EHPSS). Previous studies using computed tomography (CT) were conducted in dogs but not in cats. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to establish normal reference values for PV indices (PV/Ao ratio and PV diameter) in cats and determine the usefulness of these for predicting symptomatic EHPSS. METHODS: This study included 95 dogs and 114 cats that underwent abdominal CT. The canine normal (CN) group included dogs without EHPSS. The cats were classified into feline normal (FN, 88/114), feline asymptomatic (FA, 16/114), and feline symptomatic (FS, 10/114) groups. The PV and Ao diameters were measured in axial cross-sections. RESULTS: The group FN had a higher PV/Ao ratio than the group CN (p < 0.001). Within the feline groups, the PV indices were in the order FN > FA > FS (both p < 0.001). The mean PV diameter and PV/Ao ratio for group FN were 5.23 ± 0.77 mm and 1.46 ± 0.19, respectively. The cutoff values between groups FN and FS were 4.115 mm for PV diameter (sensitivity, 100%; specificity, 97.7%) and 1.170 for PV/Ao ratio (90%, 92.1%). The cutoff values between group FA and FS were 3.835 mm (90%, 93.8%) and 1.010 (70%, 100%), respectively. CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE: The results demonstrated significant differences in PV indices between dogs and cats. In cats, the PV/Ao ratio demonstrated high diagnostic performance for symptomatic EHPSS. The PV diameter also performed well, in contrast to dogs.

Hydrops fetalis caused by a complex congenital heart defect with concurrent hypoplasia of pulmonary blood vessels and lungs visualized by micro-CT in a French Bulldog.

BACKGROUND: Hydrops fetalis (HF) is fluid accumulation in fetus body cavities and subcutaneous tissue. The condition has been described in various farm and companion animal species, including dogs. Most of cases result from a heart defect. Exact nature of this defect is rarely clarified. CASE PRESENTATION: A newborn, male French bulldog puppy with severe HF underwent a full anatomopathological examination to diagnose the primary cause of HF. Based on the anatomopathological examination, fetal ultrasound, and micro-computed tomography, transposition of the great arteries with hypoplasia of the ascending aorta, aortic arch interruption, ostium secundum atrial septal defect, severe tricuspid valve dysplasia, as well as hypoplasia of pulmonary vessels and lungs were diagnosed. CONCLUSIONS: This is the first report of HF caused by severe, complex congenital heart defects with concurrent pulmonary vessel and lung hypoplasia.

CT findings in seven dogs with perforating wooden skewer foreign bodies from the gastrointestinal tract.

Background: Perforating foreign bodies from the gastrointestinal tract, such as wooden skewers, are reported in the small animal literature producing inflammatory/infectious lesions in the thorax, abdomen, and musculoskeletal system, which can be life-threatening in some instances. Several imaging modalities have been used, and advanced imaging techniques have shown a great advantage in its diagnosis and pre-surgical planning. Aim: The objective of this study is to describe the computed tomographic findings in a group of seven medium to large breed dogs with perforating wooden skewers and foreign bodies migrated from the gastrointestinal tract. Methods: The medical records database was searched for dogs with a suspected diagnosis of a perforating wooden foreign body migrated from the gastrointestinal tract in which a computed tomographic study was performed. Signalment, history, and clinicopathological findings (when available) were retrieved, and the computed tomographic studies were reviewed. Results: Clinical signs vary depending on the anatomical regions affected through the perforating pathway. All foreign bodies were identified and showed a median attenuation of 79 HU, with the most common localization being the stomach followed by the jejunum. Peritoneal fat stranding surrounding the perforation site was the most frequent computed tomographic finding. The presence of peritoneal free fluid and/or gas was uncommon. Pleural effusion, pulmonary perforation, and pneumothorax were present in most of the cases with the foreign body traversing the pleural space. Pulmonary cavitary lesions were always reported when the ending tip of the wooden skewer was within the pulmonary parenchyma. Soft tissue abscessation was recognized in all cases where the ending tip was lodged in muscular or subcutaneous tissues. Conclusion: Findings supported the variability of the secondary lesions caused by this type of foreign body and the utility of computed tomography in their recognition, as well as in the identification of the wooden skewer.

Determining the patency of biliary tracts in dogs with gallbladder mucocele using near-infrared cholangiography with indocyanine green.

Cholecystectomy is indicated for gallbladder mucoceles (GBM). Evaluating the patency of the biliary duct and precise biliary tree visualization is crucial for reducing the risk of compromised bile flow after surgery. Therefore, intraoperative cholangiography (IOC) is recommended during cholecystectomy to prevent biliary tract injury. Although indocyanine green (ICG) cholangiography has been extensively reported in human medicine, only one study has been conducted in veterinary medicine. Therefore, this study aimed to demonstrate the use of ICG for IOC to identify fluorescent biliary tract images and determine the patency of the common bile duct during cholecystectomy in dogs. This study comprised 27 dogs, consisting of 17 with gallbladder mucoceles (GBM) and 10 controls, specifically including dogs that had undergone elective cholecystectomy for GBM. ICG injection (0.25 mg/kg) was administered intravenously at least 45 minutes before surgery. During the operation, fluorescent images from cholangiography were displayed on the monitor and obtained in black-and-white mode for the comparison of fluorescence intensity (FI). The FI values of the gallbladders (GBs) and common bile duct (CBD) were measured using FI analyzing software (MGViewer V1.1.1, MetapleBio Inc.). The results demonstrated successful CBD patency identification in all cases. Mobile GBM showed partial gallbladder visibility, whereas immobile GBM showed limited visibility. Additionally, insights into the adequate visualization of the remaining extrahepatic biliary tree anatomy were provided, extending beyond the assessment of CBD patency and gallbladder intensity. Our study demonstrates the potential of fluorescent IOC using intravenous injection of ICG for assessing the patency of the cystic duct and common bile duct during cholecystectomy in patients with GBM, eliminating the need for surgical catheterization and flushing of the biliary ducts. Further research is warranted to investigate and validate the broader applicability of ICG cholangiography in veterinary medicine.

Assessment of tumor hypoxia in spontaneous canine tumors after treatment with OMX, a novel H-NOX oxygen carrier, with [18F]FMISO PET/CT.

BACKGROUND: Hypoxia is a detrimental factor in solid tumors, leading to aggressiveness and therapy resistance. OMX, a tunable oxygen carrier from the heme nitric oxide/oxygen-binding (H-NOX) protein family, has the potential to reduce tumor hypoxia. [18F]Fluoromisonidazole ([18F]FMISO) positron emission tomography (PET) is the most widely used and investigated method for non-invasive imaging of tumor hypoxia. In this study, we used [18F]FMISO PET/CT (computed tomography) to assess the effect of OMX on tumor hypoxia in spontaneous canine tumors. RESULTS: Thirteen canine patients with various tumors (n = 14) were randomly divided into blocks of two, with the treatment groups alternating between receiving intratumoral (IT) OMX injection (OMX IT group) and intravenous (IV) OMX injection (OMX IV group). Tumors were regarded as hypoxic if maximum tumor-to-muscle ratio (TMRmax) was greater than 1.4. In addition, hypoxic volume (HV) was defined as the region with tumor-to-muscle ratio greater than 1.4 on [18F]FMISO PET images. Hypoxia was detected in 6/7 tumors in the OMX IT group and 5/7 tumors in the OMX IV injection group. Although there was no significant difference in baseline hypoxia between the OMX IT and IV groups, the two groups showed different responses to OMX. In the OMX IV group, hypoxic tumors (n = 5) exhibited significant reductions in tumor hypoxia, as indicated by decreased TMRmax and HV in [18F]FMISO PET imaging after treatment. In contrast, hypoxic tumors in the OMX IT group (n = 6) displayed a significant increase in [18F]FMISO uptake and variable changes in TMRmax and HV. CONCLUSIONS: [18F]FMISO PET/CT imaging presents a promising non-invasive procedure for monitoring tumor hypoxia and assessing the efficacy of hypoxia-modulating therapies in canine patients. OMX has shown promising outcomes in reducing tumor hypoxia, especially when administered intravenously, as evident from reductions in both TMRmax and HV in [18F]FMISO PET imaging.

Findings of an Extraluminal Leiomyosarcoma of the Urinary Bladder in a Dog.

A 9 yr old male miniature poodle presented with acute diarrhea, vomiting, and a distended abdomen. A large and firm mass was palpated in the caudal abdomen. Radiography showed a large soft-tissue mass in the mid ventral abdomen. The mass was mildly contrast-enhancing and in contact with the right cranial aspect of the bladder on computed tomography. The mass was heterogeneous with minimal blood flow on Doppler examination. Surgery confirmed its origin of the urinary bladder, and it was diagnosed leiomyosarcoma on pathology. This is the first report of extraluminal leiomyosarcoma of the bladder wall with imaging characteristics using various modalities.

Quantitative evaluation of middle ear radiopacity in French bulldogs using X-ray imaging.

Background: Radiographic examination of the middle ear in French bulldogs can be challenging due to their small ear cavity and thick walls. Quantifying opacity on radiographic images is required to determine normal or abnormal results. Aim: To quantify the radiographic opacity of the middle ear in French bulldogs and create a threshold for objective diagnosis. Methods: A study was conducted on 32 French Bulldogs using radiographic images. Significant difference tests were performed on the ears of patients with unilateral and bilateral middle ear filling on computed tomography. A threshold was established for detecting left-right asymmetry in the same individuals. In addition, comparisons were made between the filling and nonfilling middle ear groups to establish a threshold of pixel values that could determine single middle ear filling and nonfilling for different patient images. Results: Significant differences were observed in the left-right difference in max, left-right difference in max-ave, and left-right ratio of max-ave between unilateral and bilateral filling groups. The max-ave left-right ratio had the highest area under the curve value with a cutoff of 1.077% and 92.3% sensitivity. The item that showed a significant difference between middle ear groups with and without filling was corrected for nasopharyngeal pixel values with a cutoff of 1.028% and 85% sensitivity. Conclusion: Pixel value ratios in the middle ear region can detect asymmetries in ear densities. The max value in the region compared to the same image's nasopharyngeal region can determine the filling. Combining individual ear evaluations and symmetry improves accuracy.

Diagnostic value of ultrasonography in identifying unilateral ovarian luteoma in a dog.

Background: Diagnosing ovarian tumors in dogs can be challenging since the clinical symptoms are often generic. The present case report underscores a rare case in which a suspected unilateral ovarian tumor in a dog was initially identified using ultrasonography and subsequently confirmed to be a luteoma through postoperative histopathology. Case Description: An 8-year and 6-month-old female Maltese dog presented with a 10-day history of vulvovaginal bleeding, hematuria, and decreased appetite. Physical examination revealed only vaginal bleeding, with no other abnormalities. Laboratory examinations showed no abnormalities, while abdominal radiography revealed the presence of cystic calculi as the sole abnormality. Abdominal ultrasound revealed an enlarged right ovary with regular contour and echogenicity, featuring unusual cystic components surrounding the right ovarian parenchyma. Furthermore, irregular thickening with multiple cystic lesions was observed in the endometrial wall of the bilateral uterine horns, indicative of cystic endometrial hyperplasia. Ultrasonographic findings suggested unilateral right ovarian disease. During ovariohysterectomy, the right ovary was slightly larger than the left ovary and adhered to the surrounding mesenteric fat layer and right pancreatic parenchyma. Histopathological examination confirmed the diagnosis of luteoma in the right ovary. Three days after surgery, the patient's clinical signs exhibited complete improvement, with the return of normal appetite. Conclusion: This case report highlights a rare diagnosis of unilateral ovarian luteoma based on mild ultrasonographic abnormalities, which was ultimately confirmed on histopathological examination.

Incidence and characterization of aerophagia in dogs using videofluoroscopic swallow studies.

BACKGROUND: Aerophagia (ingestion of air), is a functional aerodigestive disorder in people. Criteria for diagnosis of aerophagia in dogs are >1/3 of bolus volume containing air or ingested air resulting in gastric distention (>1/3 of end gastric volume). Aerophagia is highlighted during eating and drinking. Videofluoroscopic swallow studies (VFSS) document aerophagia in dogs, but the incidence, clinical signs (CS), and associated disorders are unknown. OBJECTIVES: Identify the incidence of aerophagia, compare CS between dogs with and without aerophagia, and identify associated and predisposing disorders using VFSS. ANIMALS: A total of 120 client-owned dogs. METHODS: Sequential VFSS and associated medical records from dogs presenting to veterinary teaching hospitals at Auburn University and the University of Missouri were retrospectively reviewed. Statistical comparisons were made using Mann-Whitney and chi-squared tests, odds ratios (OR), and multiple logistic regression (P < .05). RESULTS: The incidence (95% confidence interval [CI]) of aerophagia was 40% (31.7-48.9). Dogs with mixed CS (gastrointestinal [GI] and respiratory; P < .001, 58.3%) were more likely to have aerophagia than dogs with exclusively respiratory CS (25%). Aerophagia was significantly more common in brachycephalic dogs (P = .01; 45.8% vs 13.8%), dogs with nonbrachycephalic upper airway obstruction (P < .001; 33.3% vs 4.1%), pathologic penetration and aspiration (P-A) scores (P = .04; 41.6% vs 23.6%), and gagging (P < .001; 25% vs 11.7%). Mixed CS (P = .01), brachycephaly (P < .001), and upper airway obstruction (P < .001) were independent predictors of aerophagia. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE: Aerophagia was common, particularly in dogs with mixed CS. Brachycephalic dogs and dogs with upper airway obstruction are predisposed. Aspiration risk was high, emphasizing overlapping upper aerodigestive pathways.

Echocardiographic and electrocardiographic findings in Irish Wolfhounds eating high-pulse or low-pulse diets.

BACKGROUND: Apparently healthy dogs of various breeds eating nontraditional, high-pulse diets can have larger left ventricular diameter, lower systolic function, and more ventricular premature complexes (VPCs) compared with dogs eating traditional, low-pulse diets. It is unknown whether Irish Wolfhounds eating high-pulse diets have similar cardiac abnormalities. HYPOTHESIS/OBJECTIVES: To compare electrocardiographic and echocardiographic findings between Irish Wolfhounds eating high- or low-pulse diets. ANIMALS: Ninety-seven Irish Wolfhounds. METHODS: Retrospective study of Irish Wolfhounds that had echocardiography performed at dog shows between October 2018 and May 2021. Demographic information, echocardiographic measurements, cardiac rhythm (1-minute lead II rhythm strip), and main diet were recorded retrospectively. Diets were classified as high-pulse or low-pulse based on the presence and location of pulses (peas, lentils, chickpeas, or dry beans) on the ingredient list. RESULTS: Thirty-five of 97 Irish Wolfhounds (36%) were eating high-pulse diets and 62 of 97 (64%) were eating low-pulse diets. There were no significant differences between diet groups in echocardiographic measurements. A significantly higher percentage of dogs in the high-pulse diet group (6/35 [17%]) had VPCs compared with those in the low-pulse diet group (1/62 [2%]; effect size = 0.15 [95% confidence interval: 0.004-0.31]; P = .005). CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE: In this retrospective study of apparently healthy Irish Wolfhounds, high-pulse diets were associated with a higher prevalence of VPCs which could represent early cardiac abnormalities.

Clinical outcomes of 20 brachycephalic dogs with thoracolumbar spinal deformities causing neurological signs treated with spinal stabilization using 3D-printed patient-specific drill guides.

OBJECTIVE: To describe the clinical outcomes for pugs and French bulldogs with congenital vertebral malformations, undergoing thoracolumbar spinal stabilization surgery using 3D-printed patient-specific drill guides. To evaluate the accuracy of pedicle screw placement in this group of dogs. STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective descriptive study. ANIMALS: Twenty dogs (12 pugs and eight French bulldogs). METHODS: Medical records searched between August 2018 and March 2021 for pugs and French bulldogs diagnosed with congenital vertebral abnormalities via magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan and computed tomography (CT) scan causing T3-L3 myelopathy signs that underwent spinal stabilization surgery using 3D-printed patient-specific drill guides followed by a postoperative CT scan. The short-term outcome was based on the neurological grade (modified Frankel score-MFS) on the day after surgery, day of discharge, and at the follow-up examination at 4 to 6 weeks after surgery. The mid-term outcome was obtained via an online questionnaire (or direct examination in one case). RESULTS: Twenty dogs met the inclusion criteria (19/20 grade 2 MFS, 1/20 grade 4 MFS). No complications were reported in the immediate postoperative period and optimal pedicle screw placement was obtained in 169/201 of screws. Twenty-four hours after surgery 16/20 dogs displayed an unchanged neurological grade. Short-term outcomes revealed a static (17/20) or improved (2/20) neurological grade. Ten owners participated in the online questionnaire. All patients were reported to be ambulatory; however, 7/10 dogs displayed abnormal gait. Neurological signs had remained static (6/10) or improved (3/10) in comparison with the dogs' preoperative status at a median of 883.5 days from the surgery. CONCLUSION: Dogs in this study had a favorable short-term outcome and mid-term outcome evaluation revealed a static/improved neurological status. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE: Thoracolumbar spinal stabilization surgery using 3D-printed patient-specific drill guides showed a favorable outcome in brachycephalic breeds affected by vertebral deformities.

Near-infrared-guided Thoracoscopic Surgery and Future Near-infrared Targets.

Intraoperative near-infrared fluorescence imaging allows for real time, noninvasive visualization of anatomic structures (blood vessels, lymphatic vessels) or diseased states (cancer, inflammation). This technique is easily adapted to thoracoscopy and has allowed for improved detection of lung tumors and other various cancers, thoracic lymphatics, and cardiothoracic vasculature.

Surgical management of urethral obstruction secondary to perineal liposarcoma in a dog: a case report.

BACKGROUND: Swelling of the perineal region in male dogs is most commonly caused by a perineal hernia. Clinical signs associated with perineal hernia are constipation, tenesmus or stranguria. This case report documents a rare cause of perineal swelling created by the growth of a malignant tumour leading to urethral obstruction and subsequent stranguria. CASE PRESENTATION: An 11-year-old neutered male German Shepherd was presented for swelling in the perineal region and stranguria for three days. Complete blood count and serum biochemistry were unremarkable. Ultrasound revealed a heterogeneous mass in the perineal region. Retrograde urethrography showed a severe narrowing of the urethra caudal to the pelvis. A fine-needle aspirate of the mass was highly suspicious for liposarcoma. Staging was performed by computed tomography (CT) of the thorax and abdomen. Total penile amputation in combination with pubic-ischial pelvic osteotomy, transposition of the remaining urethra through the inguinal canal, V-Y-plasty cranial to the prepuce and preputial urethrostomy were performed to remove the tumour. Histopathology confirmed a well-differentiated liposarcoma with complete histological margins. Six months after the surgery the dog was doing well and there were no signs indicating local tumour recurrence. CONCLUSIONS: Wide surgical excision is generally recommended for soft tissue sarcomas, however this is sometimes not feasible for large tumours. In the case reported here, tumour resection was achieved by a combination of several surgical techniques with a good clinical outcome.

Evaluation of the clinical usefulness of pancreatic alpha amylase as a novel biomarker in dogs with acute pancreatitis: a pilot study.

Pancreatic alpha amylase (P-AMY) is used as a biomarker of acute pancreatitis (AP) in human medicine. To our knowledge, there are no studies evaluating the usefulness of P-AMY in dogs with AP. In this study, we evaluated the diagnostic value of P-AMY, currently not verified in veterinary medicine. The AP group (n = 40) consisted of dogs with AP diagnosed using clinical signs and laboratory examinations, including abnormal canine pancreatic lipase (cPL) concentration, and compatible abdominal ultrasound examination at first presentation. Evaluation of the canine AP severity (CAPS) score was performed. The control group (n = 38) was composed of normal dogs without any abnormalities in clinical findings, blood exams or diagnostic imaging. The correlation of P-AMY with cPL was confirmed by Pearson's correlation analysis (r = 0.564, p < .001). The sensitivity and specificity for the most appropriate cut-off values of P-AMY were recorded similar to the values of DGGR. The dogs with AP and CAPS ≥11 had significantly higher serum P-AMY (p = .016) contrary to DGGR lipase and cPL. Furthermore, there was a significant difference in the median P-AMY dependent on the presence of systemic inflammatory response syndrome (p = .001). P-AMY showed similar level of diagnostic accuracy along with sensitivity and specificity compared to DGGR lipase. In addition, P-AMY showed a significant association with CAPS score, contrary to cPL and DGGR lipase. Along with other biomarkers associated with AP, P-AMY has the potential of usefulness as a supportive diagnostic and prognostic biomarker of AP in dogs.

Volumetric quantification identifies some left atrial dilations undetected by left atrium:aorta ratio measurements: A prospective echocardiographic study in 155 Cavalier King Charles Spaniels with and without degenerative mitral valve disease.

INTRODUCTION: Degenerative mitral valve disease (DMVD) is the most common canine heart disease with a high predisposition in Cavalier King Charles Spaniels (CKCSs). Mitral regurgitation related to DMVD can lead to left atrial (LA) dilation, which is associated with survival time. Left-atrial-to-aortic (LA:Ao) ratio assessed by two-dimensional echocardiography is commonly used to evaluate LA size. The objectives of this prospective observational study were therefore 1) to compare different echocardiographic methods (i.e., monoplane and biplane Simpson's methods of discs (SMOD) and area-length methods (ALM)) in evaluating LA volume (LAvol) in CKCSs, 2) to assess LA volumes according to DMVD severity and, 3) compare the ability of LAvol and LA:Ao ratio to identify LA enlargement in CKCSs with subclinical DMVD (i.e., American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine (ACVIM) stage B). MATERIALS AND METHODS: 155 CKCSs, either healthy or affected by DMVD, were recruited. Variability and concordance between volumetric methods were evaluated. Values were analyzed according to 2019 ACVIM stages. RESULTS: All Lin's concordance correlation coefficients regarding intra- and inter-observer variability were considered as very good to excellent. Monoplane methods and ALM produced higher values of LAvol than biplane methods and SMOD, respectively. The upper limit of normal end-systolic LAvol/body weight (LASvol/BW) was defined as 0.90 mL/kg. Left atrial volumes significantly increased with ACVIM stages. Additionally, 37% of stage B1 CKCSs demonstrated LA enlargement using LASvol/BW assessment, with significantly lower LASvol/BW values in dogs with regurgitation fraction ≤30% than in others (p<0.01). CONCLUSION: In CKCSs, LAvol methods are not interchangeable. In ACVIM stage B CKCSs, LAvol quantification is more effective to detect LA enlargement than LA linear measurements.

Bleb characteristics assessed by ultrasound biomicroscopy correlate with intraocular pressure after Ahmed glaucoma valve surgery in dogs.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the characteristics of blebs formed after Ahmed glaucoma valve (AGV) surgery in dogs using ultrasound biomicroscopy (UBM) and to analyze their correlation with postoperative intraocular pressure (IOP). ANIMALS: 16 eyes (13 dogs) were diagnosed with primary angle-closure glaucoma and were followed up after AGV surgery from June 2021 to September 2023. METHODS: In this prospective study, UBM examinations were performed to assess bleb characteristics, including bleb wall thickness and reflectivity. IOP at the time of UBM imaging and the duration from AGV surgery to UBM imaging were recorded. Histological examination of an enucleated eye removed due to uncontrolled IOP leading to blindness was also conducted. RESULTS: A significant correlation was observed between IOP and relative reflectivity (Pearson r = 0.60; P = .01), and a negative correlation was observed between bleb wall thickness and relative reflectivity (Pearson r = -0.72; P = .002). No significant correlation was observed between the duration from AGV surgery to UBM imaging and either bleb wall thickness or relative reflectivity, respectively. Histological examination of the enucleated eye revealed collagen-rich fibrous encapsulation of the bleb wall, including myofibroblasts that exhibited positive α-smooth muscle actin immunostaining. CLINICAL RELEVANCE: In dogs that underwent AGV surgery, less dense, thick-walled blebs on UBM tended to maintain IOP within the normal range. However, denser, thinner-walled blebs showed IOP levels above the normal range despite the use of antiglaucoma medications. UBM is a useful tool for evaluating bleb characteristics and their influence on IOP regulation after AGV surgery in dogs.

Intracranial invasion of a mast cell tumour in a dog: A case report and review of the literature.

An 11-year-old, female-neutered beagle was presented with a growing soft tissue mass arising within the deep tissues of the left cranial cervical region. At presentation, facial asymmetry was evident along with palpable lymphadenomegaly. Magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated a locally invasive cervical mass with intracranial invasion through focal osteolysis of the occipital bone. After antihistamine administration, cytology confirmed mast cell tumour (MCT) with metastasis to local lymph nodes and liver. The owner chose to pursue lomustine and prednisolone, which were dispensed, but, before home administration, prolonged seizures/status epilepticus occurred prompting euthanasia. Postmortem examination confirmed a high-grade MCT associated with, and infiltrating through, muscle, calvarium, dura mata, leptomeninges and the underlying brain. We present the clinical, imaging, and pathological findings of an unprecedented case of extracranial MCT tumour causing osteolysis of an imperforate flat bone (occipital bone) and intracranial invasion.

Clinical features and outcome of 10 dogs with suspected idiopathic vestibular epilepsy.

BACKGROUND: In humans, vestibular epilepsy (VE) is described as focal seizures with transient signs of vestibular disease. In dogs, 2 cases of vestibular episodes, called vestibular paroxysmia, are reported. HYPOTHESIS/OBJECTIVES: The objective of this study was to define the clinical features, phenotypical manifestation, and outcome of suspected VE in dogs. ANIMALS: Ten dogs with recurrent vestibular episodes. METHODS: Retrospective study. Medical records between 2009 and 2023 were reviewed, and dogs with a normal neurological examination, a history of transient signs of vestibular disease, absence of abnormalities detected on blood exams and brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computed tomography (CT), besides a minimum 10-month follow-up were included. Clinical improvement was defined as a ≥50% reduction in frequency or the cessation of clinical signs after the onset of antiseizure medications (ASMs). RESULTS: Pugs were the most prevalent breed (5/10; 50%). In 2 cases, additional generalized tonic-clonic (GTC) seizures were reported. MRI exam was performed in most cases (9/10; 90%), whereas 1 dog underwent a CT scan (1/10; 10%). Electroencephalography (EEG) was carried out in 3 dogs that showed interictal spikes in the fronto-temporal and fronto-parietal areas. All cases received ASMs, with clinical improvement in 10/10 dogs (100%). CONCLUSION AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE: The presence of GTC seizures, EEG interictal spikes, and responsiveness to ASMs supported the hypothesis of an epileptic origin of vestibular episodes and thus the existence of VE in these dogs, with a presumed idiopathic cause and apparent favorable outcome.

Utility of focused cardiac ultrasonography training in veterinary students to differentiate stages of subclinical myxomatous mitral valve disease in dogs.

BACKGROUND: Differentiation of the subclinical phases of myxomatous mitral valve disease (MMVD) in dogs relies heavily on echocardiography. Focused cardiac ultrasonography (FCU) is a point-of-care technique that can assess heart size. HYPOTHESIS/OBJECTIVES: Veterinary students trained in FCU can differentiate dogs with subclinical MMVD based on left ventricular (LV) and left atrial (LA) dimensions. ANIMALS: Forty-eight dogs with subclinical MMVD. METHODS: Veterinary students were trained to measure LV dimension and LA-to-aortic root dimension ratio (LA : Ao) using FCU. Dogs were categorized into 2 cohorts based on whether or not the LV normalized internal diastolic dimension was ≥1.7 and LA : Ao was ≥1.6. Agreement between FCU and echocardiographic studies performed by cardiologists was evaluated. RESULTS: One-hundred and forty-six FCU examinations were performed by 58 veterinary students on 48 dogs. Overall agreement between students and cardiologists was moderate (Fleiss' kappa, 0.54; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.39-0.69; P < .001). Percentage accuracy in observations with heart dimensions less than the cutoffs (86/89, 97%) was significantly higher than in observations in with larger hearts (31/57, 54%; P < .001). Agreement increased from moderate to good as heart sizes became more extreme. Degree of confidence by students in performing FCU was significantly higher at the end vs start of the study. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE: Categorization of dogs with subclinical MMVD by veterinary students using FCU was associated with moderate to good agreement with echocardiography. Focused cardiac ultrasonography is a point-of-care method that can help assess clinical stage in dogs with subclinical MMVD.