Nutritional secondary hyperparathyroidism in a puppy Leopardus geoffroyi (d'Orbigny and Gervais, 1844) / Hiperparatireoidismo secundário nutricional em filhote de Leopardus geoffroyi (d'Orbigny and Gervais, 1844)

Nutritional Secondary Hyperparathyroidism (NSH) is a metabolic disorder that mainly affects young animals. This disease causes imbalance between the levels of calcium and phosphorus, culminating in bone changes. Wild animals raised in captivity can develop the disease when they are given an inadequate diet. The aim of this study is to report the clinical findings, the complementary exams and the therapeutics utilized in a Leopardus geoffroyi (Geoffroy's cat) cub originated from captivity with NSH. The animal went through complementary imaging exams and biochemical evaluation that respectively revealed generalized osteopenia and pathological fracture of the right femur, reduction of serum calcium level and elevation of serum phosphorus level. The diagnosis of NSH was established by associating the history, clinical signs, and findings of ancillary exams. The treatment was based on diet correction, mineral and vitaminic supplementation and sun exposure. The NSH diagnosis was stablished by associating history, clinical signs, imaging exams findings and serum biochemicals. The early identification of this disease is of paramount importance, because in this way corrections can be made in food management, in order to provide successful clinical recovery and promote quality of life for wild captive animals.(AU)

O hiperparatireoidismo secundário nutricional (HSN) é uma desordem metabólica que acomete principalmente animais jovens. Essa doença cursa com desequilíbrio entre os níveis de cálcio e fósforo, culminando com alterações ósseas. Animais silvestres quando criados em cativeiro podem desenvolver a doença quando recebem uma dieta inadequada. O obje-tivo deste estudo é relatar os achados clínicos, os exames complementares e a terapêutica utilizada em um filhote de Leopardus geoffroyi (gato-do-mato-grande)proveniente de cativeiro com HSN. O animal passou por exames complementares de imagem e avaliação bioquímica que revelaram respectivamente osteopenia generalizada e fratura patológica de fêmur direito, redução dos níveis séricos de cálcio e elevação do fósforo. O diagnóstico de HSN foi estabelecido associando o histórico, sinais clínicos e achados dos exames complementares. O tratamento foi baseado na correção da dieta, suplementação mineral e vitamínica e exposição solar. A identificação precoce dessa doença é de suma importância, pois dessa forma podem ser feitas correções no manejo alimentar, afim de proporcionar a recuperação clínica com êxito e promover qualidade de vida para os animais selva-gens de cativeiro.(AU)

Molecular detection and phylogenetic relationship of Haemosporida parasites in free-ranging wild raptors from Brazil.

The order Haemosporida is widely distributed parasitizing members of the Aves class. In birds of prey, infection with Plasmodium spp. parasites varies from an apathogenic form to a clinical syndrome. However, studies on Haemosporida in raptors from the neotropical region are scarce. The aim of this study was to investigate natural infection by Plasmodium spp., Haemoproteus spp. and Leucocytozoon spp. in free-ranging wild raptors from southern Brazil. For this, we sampled 206 individuals of 21 species: 94 live-trapped Southern Caracaras (Caracara plancus) and 112 raptors from other species that were brought to rehabilitation centers. The presence of infection was investigated using a nested-PCR for Haemosporida performed on blood samples. Overall, 56 out of 206 birds were positive for Plasmodium spp./Haemoproteus spp. Twenty-two percent (21/94) of the C. plancus samples were positive. Of the 112 wild raptors rescued, 31% (35/112) of those belonging to 15 other species tested positive. No sample was positive for Leucocytozoon spp. Herein, we demonstrated nine lineages of Haemosporidian parasites (eight Plasmodium sp. and one Haemoproteus sp.) in free-living species of Brazilian birds of prey, being six of them potential novel lineages. It suggests that information currently available on South-American haemosporidian from these birds greatly underestimate the potential lineage diversity in this region.

Clostridial diseases diagnosed in herbivores in Southern Brazil

Background: The genus Clostridium includes a group of Gram-positive, anaerobic bacteria which producing endosporesand produce toxins when encounter conditions favorable to their development. These toxins can be produced and absorbedin the intestinal lumen, as occurs in cases of enterotoxemia (Clostridium perfringens), or are produced in areas of tissuenecrosis after bacterial infections, as seen in tetanus (C. tetani), blackleg (C. chauvoei) and bacillary hemoglobinuria(C. haemolyticum), or in infections by C. chauvoei, C. novyi and C. septicum frequently associated with cases of malignant edema. The aim of this research was relates the epidemiological and clinicopathological aspects of the clostridiosisobserved in the region of infl uence of the Setor de Patologia Veterinária of Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul.Materials, Methods & Results: The necropsy records were reviewed from January 1996 to December 2011 to identifythe cases of clostridiosis that were diagnosed. In the period, 4.689 necropsies were performed by the (SPV-UFRGS). Atotal of 135 cases (2.88%) were associated with clostridiosis. The most prevalent clostridiosis included tetanus (48.15%)in horses, cattle, sheep and goats; botulism (17.04%) in cattle and enterotoxemia (22.96%) in goats. Additional diseaseswere blackleg (5.93%) in cattle, necrotic myositis/malignant edema in horses and sheep and bacillary hemoglobinuria incattle, both with 4 cases each (2.96%).Discussion: Tetanus, enterotoxemia, and botulism were the most prevalent clostrodiosis diagnosed at SPV-UFRGS andtogether accounted for approximately 90% of cases in the period 1996-2011. As for blackleg, bacillary hemoglobinuria,and necrotic myositis/malignant edema, together they represented slightly less than 10% of the clostridioses in the period.The most signifi cant clostridiosis in the period studied was tetanus, affecting cattle, sheep, and horses. There was a largenumber...

Clostridial diseases diagnosed in herbivores in Southern Brazil

Background: The genus Clostridium includes a group of Gram-positive, anaerobic bacteria which producing endosporesand produce toxins when encounter conditions favorable to their development. These toxins can be produced and absorbedin the intestinal lumen, as occurs in cases of enterotoxemia (Clostridium perfringens), or are produced in areas of tissuenecrosis after bacterial infections, as seen in tetanus (C. tetani), blackleg (C. chauvoei) and bacillary hemoglobinuria(C. haemolyticum), or in infections by C. chauvoei, C. novyi and C. septicum frequently associated with cases of malignant edema. The aim of this research was relates the epidemiological and clinicopathological aspects of the clostridiosisobserved in the region of infl uence of the Setor de Patologia Veterinária of Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul.Materials, Methods & Results: The necropsy records were reviewed from January 1996 to December 2011 to identifythe cases of clostridiosis that were diagnosed. In the period, 4.689 necropsies were performed by the (SPV-UFRGS). Atotal of 135 cases (2.88%) were associated with clostridiosis. The most prevalent clostridiosis included tetanus (48.15%)in horses, cattle, sheep and goats; botulism (17.04%) in cattle and enterotoxemia (22.96%) in goats. Additional diseaseswere blackleg (5.93%) in cattle, necrotic myositis/malignant edema in horses and sheep and bacillary hemoglobinuria incattle, both with 4 cases each (2.96%).Discussion: Tetanus, enterotoxemia, and botulism were the most prevalent clostrodiosis diagnosed at SPV-UFRGS andtogether accounted for approximately 90% of cases in the period 1996-2011. As for blackleg, bacillary hemoglobinuria,and necrotic myositis/malignant edema, together they represented slightly less than 10% of the clostridioses in the period.The most signifi cant clostridiosis in the period studied was tetanus, affecting cattle, sheep, and horses. There was a largenumber...(AU)

Novos aspectos sobre a intoxicação por Trema micrantha (Cannabaceae) em equídeos / New aspects of Trema micrantha (Cannabaceae) poisoning in equids

Trema micrantha é uma planta arbórea distribuída amplamente no Brasil. Descrevem-se nesse trabalho novos aspectos epidemiológicos e patológicos relacionados com a intoxicação por essa planta em equídeos. Dois equinos adultos da raça Crioula e dois asininos, de localidades distintas, foram intoxicados naturalmente por Trema micrantha, após consumirem grande quantidade da planta que ficou disponível a eles após uma poda. Além disso, um cavalo adulto, de outra propriedade, que estava passando por restrição alimentar, se intoxicou após consumir as partes baixas de um grande número de árvores jovens de T. micrantha. Clinicamente, em todos os equídeos a doença se caracterizou por alterações neurológicas, que apareceram três a quatro dias após o consumo da planta, com curso clínico de dois a quatro dias (abreviadas por eutanásia). Os principais achados de necropsia foram observados no fígado, que estavam levemente aumentados e com padrão lobular evidente e no sistema nervoso central (SNC), com múltiplas áreas amareladas, focos de malacia e hemorragia, principalmente, no tronco cerebral e cerebelo. Histologicamente, havia necrose hepática aguda, edema acentuado no SNC com degeneração fibrinoide da parede de vasos associada a hemorragia e trombose e, frequentemente, com infiltrado de neutrófilos. Outras alterações observadas nos encéfalos foram: grande quantidade de astrócitos de Alzheimer tipo II na substância cinzenta, acúmulos de células Gitter e degeneração Walleriana próxima a focos de lesões vasculares.

Trema micrantha is a tree widely distributed in Brazil. This paper describes new epidemiological and pathological aspects of this plant poisoning in equids. Two adult horses, Criollo breed and two donkeys from different locations were naturally poisoned by Trema micrantha after consuming large amounts of the plant which was available to them due to pruning. Also an adult horse from another ranch, which was undergoing dietary restriction, was poisoned after consuming the lower parts of a large number of young T. micrantha trees. Clinically, in all cases, the disease was characterized by neurological symptoms that started 3 to 4 days after consumption of the plant, with a clinical course that varied 2 to 4 days (abbreviated by euthanasia). The main gross findings were in the liver, which had slightly increased lobular pattern evident, and in the central nervous system (CNS) with multiple yellowish areas, foci of malacia and hemorrhage, especially in the brainstem and cerebellum. Histologically, there was acute liver necrosis with marked edema of the CNS with fibrinoid vessel wall degeneration, hemorrhage and thrombosis as well as neutrophil infiltration. Other changes in the brain were Alzheimer type II astrocytes in the gray matter, accumulation of Gitter cells and Wallerian degeneration near to vascular lesion foci.

Novos aspectos sobre a intoxicação por Trema micrantha (Cannabaceae) em equídeos / New aspects of Trema micrantha (Cannabaceae) poisoning in equids

Trema micrantha é uma planta arbórea distribuída amplamente no Brasil. Descrevem-se nesse trabalho novos aspectos epidemiológicos e patológicos relacionados com a intoxicação por essa planta em equídeos. Dois equinos adultos da raça Crioula e dois asininos, de localidades distintas, foram intoxicados naturalmente por Trema micrantha, após consumirem grande quantidade da planta que ficou disponível a eles após uma poda. Além disso, um cavalo adulto, de outra propriedade, que estava passando por restrição alimentar, se intoxicou após consumir as partes baixas de um grande número de árvores jovens de T. micrantha. Clinicamente, em todos os equídeos a doença se caracterizou por alterações neurológicas, que apareceram três a quatro dias após o consumo da planta, com curso clínico de dois a quatro dias (abreviadas por eutanásia). Os principais achados de necropsia foram observados no fígado, que estavam levemente aumentados e com padrão lobular evidente e no sistema nervoso central (SNC), com múltiplas áreas amareladas, focos de malacia e hemorragia, principalmente, no tronco cerebral e cerebelo. Histologicamente, havia necrose hepática aguda, edema acentuado no SNC com degeneração fibrinoide da parede de vasos associada a hemorragia e trombose e, frequentemente, com infiltrado de neutrófilos. Outras alterações observadas nos encéfalos foram: grande quantidade de astrócitos de Alzheimer tipo II na substância cinzenta, acúmulos de células Gitter e degeneração Walleriana próxima a focos de lesões vasculares. (AU)

Trema micrantha is a tree widely distributed in Brazil. This paper describes new epidemiological and pathological aspects of this plant poisoning in equids. Two adult horses, Criollo breed and two donkeys from different locations were naturally poisoned by Trema micrantha after consuming large amounts of the plant which was available to them due to pruning. Also an adult horse from another ranch, which was undergoing dietary restriction, was poisoned after consuming the lower parts of a large number of young T. micrantha trees. Clinically, in all cases, the disease was characterized by neurological symptoms that started 3 to 4 days after consumption of the plant, with a clinical course that varied 2 to 4 days (abbreviated by euthanasia). The main gross findings were in the liver, which had slightly increased lobular pattern evident, and in the central nervous system (CNS) with multiple yellowish areas, foci of malacia and hemorrhage, especially in the brainstem and cerebellum. Histologically, there was acute liver necrosis with marked edema of the CNS with fibrinoid vessel wall degeneration, hemorrhage and thrombosis as well as neutrophil infiltration. Other changes in the brain were Alzheimer type II astrocytes in the gray matter, accumulation of Gitter cells and Wallerian degeneration near to vascular lesion foci. (AU)

Sheep production as a Senecio spp. control tool / Ovinocultura, ferramenta de controle de Senecio spp

Since poisoning by Senecio spp. is one of the main causes of cattle death in southern Brazil, control of these plants is a priority for the local livestock production. After the pasture has been mowed, grazing by 16 sheep was efficient for controlling Senecio brasiliensis and Senecio madagascariensis populations in a 5.5-hectare area that had long been severely infested with these species. A total of 28,629 plants among S. brasiliensis (flower-of-souls, 10,122) and S.madagascariensis (fireweed, 18,507) were almost completely eliminated in a two-year period. The number of sheep was kept at 3.0 stock units/ha, but a variable number of cattle were temporarily stocked according to pasture availability. The major sanitary practice applied to the sheep was anthelmintic administration. Liver biopsies taken from sheep and cattle before and after experimental period didn't reveal any change associable with seneciosis. The performance levels of the sheep were comparable to those observed in flocks managed under traditional extensive grazing systems in southern Brazil.

As intoxicações por Senecio spp. estão entre as principais causas de morte de bovinos no sul do Brasil; portanto, o controle dessas plantas é prioridade para a pecuária local. Depois de uma roçada, o pastejo por 16 ovinos controlou, eficientemente, populações de Senecio brasiliensis e Senecio madagascariensis em uma área de 5,5 hectares, a qual havia se mantido, por oito anos consecutivos, severamente, infestada por essas espécies. Um total de 28.629 plantas, entre S. brasiliensis (10.122) e S.madagascariensis (18.507) foi, virtualmente, eliminado em um período de dois anos. O número de ovelhas foi mantido em três unidades /hectare, mas variáveis lotações de bovinos foram associadas com a disponibilidade de forragem. As principais práticas de manejo sanitário aplicadas aos ovinos foram administrações de anti-helmínticos. Biópsias hepáticas, colhidas antes e após o período de estudo, não revelaram qualquer alteração associável com seneciose. Os níveis de desempenho dos ovinos foram comparáveis aos observados em rebanhos manejados em sistemas extensivos tradicionais no sul do Brasil.

Sheep production as a Senecio spp. control tool / Ovinocultura, ferramenta de controle de Senecio spp

Since poisoning by Senecio spp. is one of the main causes of cattle death in southern Brazil, control of these plants is a priority for the local livestock production. After the pasture has been mowed, grazing by 16 sheep was efficient for controlling Senecio brasiliensis and Senecio madagascariensis populations in a 5.5-hectare area that had long been severely infested with these species. A total of 28,629 plants among S. brasiliensis (flower-of-souls, 10,122) and S.madagascariensis (fireweed, 18,507) were almost completely eliminated in a two-year period. The number of sheep was kept at 3.0 stock units/ha, but a variable number of cattle were temporarily stocked according to pasture availability. The major sanitary practice applied to the sheep was anthelmintic administration. Liver biopsies taken from sheep and cattle before and after experimental period didn't reveal any change associable with seneciosis. The performance levels of the sheep were comparable to those observed in flocks managed under traditional extensive grazing systems in southern Brazil.(AU)

As intoxicações por Senecio spp. estão entre as principais causas de morte de bovinos no sul do Brasil; portanto, o controle dessas plantas é prioridade para a pecuária local. Depois de uma roçada, o pastejo por 16 ovinos controlou, eficientemente, populações de Senecio brasiliensis e Senecio madagascariensis em uma área de 5,5 hectares, a qual havia se mantido, por oito anos consecutivos, severamente, infestada por essas espécies. Um total de 28.629 plantas, entre S. brasiliensis (10.122) e S.madagascariensis (18.507) foi, virtualmente, eliminado em um período de dois anos. O número de ovelhas foi mantido em três unidades /hectare, mas variáveis lotações de bovinos foram associadas com a disponibilidade de forragem. As principais práticas de manejo sanitário aplicadas aos ovinos foram administrações de anti-helmínticos. Biópsias hepáticas, colhidas antes e após o período de estudo, não revelaram qualquer alteração associável com seneciose. Os níveis de desempenho dos ovinos foram comparáveis aos observados em rebanhos manejados em sistemas extensivos tradicionais no sul do Brasil.(AU)

Clinical and pathological insights into Johne's disease in buffaloes.

Alternative diagnostic tools and interesting epidemiological assumptions were associated with an outbreak of Johne's disease. In a buffalo herd infected with paratuberculosis, seven clinically affected animals and 21 animals with anti-Mycobacterium avium ELISA reactions were identified. Total herd included 203 buffaloes. Most lesions were comparable to those described in buffaloes and cattle affected by Johne's disease. Water buffalo behaviors such as communal nursing and allosuckling may be additional risk factors for this disease. Detection of positive Ziehl-Neelsen staining and anti-M. avium immunolabeling in rectal biopsies from one buffalo with paratuberculosis are highlighted as auxiliary diagnostic tools for Johne's disease in live animals.

Colite histiocítica ulcerativa em um cão boxer no Brasil / Histiocytic ulcerative colitis in a Boxer dog in Brazil

Background: Histiocytic ulcerative colitis (HUC), also known as granulomatous Boxers colitis or colitis similar to Whipples disease is a condition affecting especially Boxer dogs. The disease is characterized by chronic increase in the defecation frequency, tenesmus, fetid dark-brown stools with blood streaks and mucus. Histopathology of a colorectal biopsy confirms the clinical diagnosis, when infiltrates of markedly PAS-positive macrophages are observed in the colonic lamina propria and submucosa. This communication reports a case of histiocytic ulcerative colitis in a Boxer dog in Brazil. Case: A Boxer dog, with one year and three months of age had been presenting, since it was nine months old, increased frequency of defecation, tenesmus, intermittent diarrhea, loose stools with streaks of liquid blood, and coprophagy; however, no weight loss or appetite loss were noticed. After an initial period of three months experiencing the aforementioned signs, the dog started with persistent diarrhea with bright red blood, mild prostration, weight loss, and voracious appetite. Because of continuous deteriorating condition and treatment refractoriness, the dog was euthanized. At necropsy, the colon was decreased in size with thickened mucosa and foci of ulceration, apart of enlarged mesenteric lymph nodes. Tissue fragments were collected and fixed in 10% formalin, processed following standard procedures for histopathology, and stained with Hematoxylin-Eosin (HE). Selected sections from samples of intestines and mesenteric lymph nodes were also stained with Periodic Acid Shiff (PAS) and Brown-Hopps adapted Gram Staining. Microscopic findings in the colon included infiltration with rounded to oval bulky macrophages, with eccentric nuclei and abundant eosinophilic and slightly granular cytoplasm. These macrophages were distributed in the basal lamina propria and submucosa, and there also was diffuse infiltration of lymphocytes and plasma cells. Extensive multifocal mucosal ulcerations with exposure of the submucosa were also observed. The cytoplasm of macrophages was strongly marked when stained by Periodic Acid Schiff. Macrófagos do cólon e do linfonodo mesentérico não coraram pela técnica de Gram. Discussion: This diagnosis of histiocytic ulcerative colitis was based on the clinical and pathological findings, especially the association of the clinical signs with the infiltrates of markedly PAS-positive macrophages within the colonic lamina propria and submucosa, which is considered a typical characteristic of the condition. The disease afflicts mainly young Boxer dogs, as it was recorded here. In most cases, there is neither weight loss, nor appetite loss, and the hair coat maintains a healthy appearance. However, in chronic cases such this described here, the dogs may show wasting. Ultrastructural and immunohistochemical findings in macrophages of HUC have indicated the participation of Escherichia coli in the etiopathogeny of the disease. The Boxer dogs predisposition to HUC has been attributed to a hereditary abnormality that confers invasion and persistence of an adherent E. coli group. This paper reports the importance of the histiocytic ulcerative colitis as an enteric condition affecting Boxer dogs also in Brazil.(AU)

Intoxicação por organofosforados em bezerros no Uruguai / Organophosphate poisoning in Calves in Uruguay

Background: Organophosphate compounds are used worldwide in animal agriculture as pesticides, inseticides and herbicides. The inappropriate use of these anticholinesterasic agents may cause poisoning, apart of great economic losses. Organophosphate poisoning may affect all animal species. Organophosphate overdose induce increase in tissue acetylcholine content and, therefore, enhanced parasympathetic and post-ganglionic sympathetic nerve activities. The toxic effects are shown as muscarinic, nicotinic and central nervous system signs. The muscarinic signs are characterized by increased peristaltism, salivation, lacrimation, nasal discharge, bronchial constrition, miosis and sudoresis, among others. The nicotinic signs are mainly locomotor signs and include muscular tremors, weakness, and flaccid paralysis. The effects on the central nervous system include inquietation, ataxia, convulsions, depression and coma. Minimal differences may be seen in the diseases caused by different compounds; nevertheless, the route of administration may facilitate the exacerbation of some signs instead of others. Case: This paper report an outbreak of organophosphate poisoning in calves. The disease occurred in a dairy farm located in Florida, Uruguay and affected female Holstein 15-day-old calves. The main owner complaints were apathy, standing difficulty and sialorrhea. Seven out of twenty calves presented neurological signs such as incoordination and sternal recumbency. The clinical examination revealed prostration, lacrimation, tongue protusion, muscular weakness and miosis. At anamnesis, the previous application, in the day before, of a pour-on inseticide was noticed. The composition of the commercial product was ethion (15%), which is an insecticide organophosphate widely used as an antiparasitic drug. Affected animals were treated with intravenous atropine sulfate 1% (0.50 mg/kg) and sodium chloride 0.9%. Atropine sulfate is a potent parasympatholytic agent that inhibits the effects of acetylcholine at the postganglionic parasympathetic neuroeffector junctions. Ten minutes after the treatment, most calves showed an improvement in health status. Only one calf needed two extra doses at 1-hour intervals to recuperate. The presumptive diagnosis was based on the clinical findings and supported by depressed blood cholinesterase level. Discussion: The rapid therapeutic response of affected animals to specific treatment also supports the hypothesis. The outcome of this outbreak relies in the aggressive approach of the team and adequate treatment choice. In spite of other differential diagnosis possibilities such as poisoning by carbamate and pyrethroid, the clinical findings, laboratory result and therapeutic response allowed us to attribute this outbreak to the misuse of organophosphate. The key to an excellent outcome, when dealing with organophosphate poisoning, is immediate treatment.(AU)

Surto de intoxicação por Senna occidentalis em bovinos em pastoreio / Outbreak of poisoning by Senna occidentalis in grazzing cattle

The Senna occidentalis poisoning occurs by the ingestion of seeds, leaves and stem of the plant, causing degenerative myopathy lesion. In addition, a several animals species are affected. Outbreaks are related with the ration consumption contaminated by seeds. However, few cases of spontaneous ingestion of the plant in fields were described. A rapid clinical disease is characterized by diarrhea, colic and tenesmus. Afterwards, muscular lesions and brownish-urine were revealed. In the end of the disease course, serum levels of creatine kinase (CK) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) are increased. The aim of this study is to describe an outbreak of S. occidentalis poisoning in live cattle, in Triunfo, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, occurred in May 2008.[...]

Intoxicação por organofosforados em bezerros no Uruguai / Organophosphate poisoning in Calves in Uruguay

Background: Organophosphate compounds are used worldwide in animal agriculture as pesticides, inseticides and herbicides. The inappropriate use of these anticholinesterasic agents may cause poisoning, apart of great economic losses. Organophosphate poisoning may affect all animal species. Organophosphate overdose induce increase in tissue acetylcholine content and, therefore, enhanced parasympathetic and post-ganglionic sympathetic nerve activities. The toxic effects are shown as muscarinic, nicotinic and central nervous system signs. The muscarinic signs are characterized by increased peristaltism, salivation, lacrimation, nasal discharge, bronchial constrition, miosis and sudoresis, among others. The nicotinic signs are mainly locomotor signs and include muscular tremors, weakness, and flaccid paralysis. The effects on the central nervous system include inquietation, ataxia, convulsions, depression and coma. Minimal differences may be seen in the diseases caused by different compounds; nevertheless, the route of administration may facilitate the exacerbation of some signs instead of others. Case: This paper report an outbreak of organophosphate poisoning in calves. The disease occurred in a dairy farm located in Florida, Uruguay and affected female Holstein 15-day-old calves. The main owner complaints were apathy, standing difficulty and sialorrhea. Seven out of twenty calves presented neurological signs such as incoordination and sternal recumbency. The clinical examination revealed prostration, lacrimation, tongue protusion, muscular weakness and miosis. At anamnesis, the previous application, in the day before, of a pour-on inseticide was noticed. The composition of the commercial product was ethion (15%), which is an insecticide organophosphate widely used as an antiparasitic drug. Affected animals were treated with intravenous atropine sulfate 1% (0.50 mg/kg) and sodium chloride 0.9%. Atropine sulfate is a potent parasympatholytic agent that inhibits the effects of acetylcholine at the postganglionic parasympathetic neuroeffector junctions. Ten minutes after the treatment, most calves showed an improvement in health status. Only one calf needed two extra doses at 1-hour intervals to recuperate. The presumptive diagnosis was based on the clinical findings and supported by depressed blood cholinesterase level. Discussion: The rapid therapeutic response of affected animals to specific treatment also supports the hypothesis. The outcome of this outbreak relies in the aggressive approach of the team and adequate treatment choice. In spite of other differential diagnosis possibilities such as poisoning by carbamate and pyrethroid, the clinical findings, laboratory result and therapeutic response allowed us to attribute this outbreak to the misuse of organophosphate. The key to an excellent outcome, when dealing with organophosphate poisoning, is immediate treatment.

Colite histiocítica ulcerativa em um cão boxer no Brasil / Histiocytic ulcerative colitis in a Boxer dog in Brazil

Background: Histiocytic ulcerative colitis (HUC), also known as granulomatous Boxer’s colitis or colitis similar to Whipple’s disease is a condition affecting especially Boxer dogs. The disease is characterized by chronic increase in the defecation frequency, tenesmus, fetid dark-brown stools with blood streaks and mucus. Histopathology of a colorectal biopsy confirms the clinical diagnosis, when infiltrates of markedly PAS-positive macrophages are observed in the colonic lamina propria and submucosa. This communication reports a case of histiocytic ulcerative colitis in a Boxer dog in Brazil. Case: A Boxer dog, with one year and three months of age had been presenting, since it was nine months old, increased frequency of defecation, tenesmus, intermittent diarrhea, loose stools with streaks of liquid blood, and coprophagy; however, no weight loss or appetite loss were noticed. After an initial period of three months experiencing the aforementioned signs, the dog started with persistent diarrhea with bright red blood, mild prostration, weight loss, and voracious appetite. Because of continuous deteriorating condition and treatment refractoriness, the dog was euthanized. At necropsy, the colon was decreased in size with thickened mucosa and foci of ulceration, apart of enlarged mesenteric lymph nodes. Tissue fragments were collected and fixed in 10% formalin, processed following standard procedures for histopathology, and stained with Hematoxylin-Eosin (HE). Selected sections from samples of intestines and mesenteric lymph nodes were also stained with Periodic Acid Shiff (PAS) and Brown-Hopps adapted Gram Staining. Microscopic findings in the colon included infiltration with rounded to oval bulky macrophages, with eccentric nuclei and abundant eosinophilic and slightly granular cytoplasm. These macrophages were distributed in the basal lamina propria and submucosa, and there also was diffuse infiltration of lymphocytes and plasma cells. Extensive multifocal mucosal ulcerations with exposure of the submucosa were also observed. The cytoplasm of macrophages was strongly marked when stained by Periodic Acid Schiff. Macrófagos do cólon e do linfonodo mesentérico não coraram pela técnica de Gram. Discussion: This diagnosis of histiocytic ulcerative colitis was based on the clinical and pathological findings, especially the association of the clinical signs with the infiltrates of markedly PAS-positive macrophages within the colonic lamina propria and submucosa, which is considered a typical characteristic of the condition. The disease afflicts mainly young Boxer dogs, as it was recorded here. In most cases, there is neither weight loss, nor appetite loss, and the hair coat maintains a healthy appearance. However, in chronic cases such this described here, the dogs may show wasting. Ultrastructural and immunohistochemical findings in macrophages of HUC have indicated the participation of Escherichia coli in the etiopathogeny of the disease. The Boxer dog’s predisposition to HUC has been attributed to a hereditary abnormality that confers invasion and persistence of an adherent E. coli group. This paper reports the importance of the histiocytic ulcerative colitis as an enteric condition affecting Boxer dogs also in Brazil.

Surto de intoxicação por Senna occidentalis em bovinos em pastoreio / Outbreak of poisoning by Senna occidentalis in grazzing cattle

The Senna occidentalis poisoning occurs by the ingestion of seeds, leaves and stem of the plant, causing degenerative myopathy lesion. In addition, a several animals species are affected. Outbreaks are related with the ration consumption contaminated by seeds. However, few cases of spontaneous ingestion of the plant in fields were described. A rapid clinical disease is characterized by diarrhea, colic and tenesmus. Afterwards, muscular lesions and brownish-urine were revealed. In the end of the disease course, serum levels of creatine kinase (CK) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) are increased. The aim of this study is to describe an outbreak of S. occidentalis poisoning in live cattle, in Triunfo, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, occurred in May 2008.[...](AU)

Metodologia aplicada na avaliação de fetos suínos abortados e natimortos / Methodology used in the evaluation of stillborns and aborted fetuses from swine

Este artigo revisa dados relativos à realização de necropsia em fetos suínos abortados e natimortos. Aspectos descritos incluem coleta de material, procedimentos de necropsia, achados macroscópicos e histopatológicos alguns dos quais de pouco ou nenhum significado patológico são frequentemente observados numa rotina de diagnóstico e geralmente interpretados erroneamente como lesões reais ou de importância.

This paper reviews information on necropsies in stillborn and aborted fetuses from swine. Aspects dealt with include sampling collection, necropsy procedures, gross and histopathological findings, some of which are of little or no pathological significance but often observed in the routine diagnostic work and misinterpreted as real or important lesions.

Metodologia aplicada na avaliação de fetos suínos abortados e natimortos / Methodology used in the evaluation of stillborns and aborted fetuses from swine

Este artigo revisa dados relativos à realização de necropsia em fetos suínos abortados e natimortos. Aspectos descritos incluem coleta de material, procedimentos de necropsia, achados macroscópicos e histopatológicos alguns dos quais de pouco ou nenhum significado patológico são frequentemente observados numa rotina de diagnóstico e geralmente interpretados erroneamente como lesões reais ou de importância.(AU)

This paper reviews information on necropsies in stillborn and aborted fetuses from swine. Aspects dealt with include sampling collection, necropsy procedures, gross and histopathological findings, some of which are of little or no pathological significance but often observed in the routine diagnostic work and misinterpreted as real or important lesions.(AU)

Granulomatous myelitis associated with hemorrhagic syndrome due to consumption of Vicia villosa by cattle / Mielite granulomatosa associada à síndrome hemorrágica devido ao consumo de Vicia villosa em um bovino

An unusual case of spontaneous Vicia villosa poisoning affected a 6-year-old Holstein cow. Although the most striking findings included a generalized hemorrhagic condition associated with granulomatous myelitis, histological lesions typically seen with the vetch-associated systemic granulomatous syndrome were also present. Prominent gross findings were bloody nasal and oral discharges, disseminated hemorrhages, and bloody feces. Generalized hemorrhages associated with infiltration of numerous organs by lymphocytes, plasma cells, macrophages, multinucleated giants cells, and eosinophils were the main microscopic findings. Anti-CD68 immunostaining confirmed the presence of moderate histiocytic infiltrate and multinucleated giant cells in the bone marrow. These changes in the bone marrow probably caused the generalized hemorrhagic changes described here.

Um bovino Holandês de seis anos naturalmente intoxicado pela Vicia villosa apresentou lesões não comumente encontradas nessa intoxicação. Embora a lesão mais evidente fosse hemorragia generalizada associada à mielite granulomatosa, as lesões granulomatosas típicas da intoxicação pela ervilhaca também estavam presentes histologicamente. Os principais achados macroscópicos foram hemorragias nasal e oral, hemorragias generalizadas e fezes com sangue. Lesões hemorrágicas generalizadas associadas com infiltrado inflamatório de linfócitos, plasmócitos, macrófagos, células gigantes multinucleadas e eosinófilos foram os principais achados microscópicos encontrados. O teste imuno-histoquímico anti-CD68 confirmou a presença de infiltrado moderado de macrófagos e de células gigantes multinucleadas na medula óssea. As alterações na medula óssea provavelmente constituem a causa da hemorragia generalizada descrita nesse caso.

Mionecrose aguda por Clostridium septicum em equinos / Acute myonecrosis by Clostridium septicum in horses

Descrevem-se dois casos de miosite necrosante causada por Clostridium septicum em equinos. Os dois equinos apresentavam aumento de volume no membro pélvico direito e que se estendia para a região abdominal ventral. Ao corte, essa área era formada por edema sanguinolento e bolhas de gás. Os músculos esqueléticos da região caudal da coxa apresentavam áreas vermelho-escuras, crepitantes, com edema sanguinolento e, ao corte, as áreas mais profundas da musculatura tinham aspecto seco. As principais alterações histopatológicas observadas foram tumefação, vacuolização, necrose hialina e necrose flocular de fibras musculares esqueléticas. Entre as fibras, havia hemorragia, edema e grande quantidade de bacilos com tamanho de 3-6μm. Na coloração de Gram, os bacilos se apresentavam roxos (gram-positivos); quando impregnados pela prata (Warthin-Starry), se mostraram enegrecidos. Nos dois casos, C. septicum foi isolado, em ambiente anaeróbio, do líquido de edema das lesões musculares.

Two cases of acute necrotizing myositis caused by Clostridium septicum in horses are described. Both horses presented swelling of the right pelvic limb extending to the ventral abdominal region. The cut surface of the affected area revealed blood-stained edema and gas bubbles. The skeletal muscles of the caudal region of the thigh of the affect limbs had dark red discolored areas of blood-stained edema and crepitation; the deep musculature was dry. The main histopathological findings were swelling, vacuolation and hyaline and floccular necrosis of skeletal myofibers; in between myofibers there were hemorrhage, edema and large amounts of bacilli. In both cases, C. septicum was isolated from the edema fluid of muscular lesions.

Mionecrose aguda por Clostridium septicum em equinos / Acute myonecrosis by Clostridium septicum in horses

Descrevem-se dois casos de miosite necrosante causada por Clostridium septicum em equinos. Os dois equinos apresentavam aumento de volume no membro pélvico direito e que se estendia para a região abdominal ventral. Ao corte, essa área era formada por edema sanguinolento e bolhas de gás. Os músculos esqueléticos da região caudal da coxa apresentavam áreas vermelho-escuras, crepitantes, com edema sanguinolento e, ao corte, as áreas mais profundas da musculatura tinham aspecto seco. As principais alterações histopatológicas observadas foram tumefação, vacuolização, necrose hialina e necrose flocular de fibras musculares esqueléticas. Entre as fibras, havia hemorragia, edema e grande quantidade de bacilos com tamanho de 3-6μm. Na coloração de Gram, os bacilos se apresentavam roxos (gram-positivos); quando impregnados pela prata (Warthin-Starry), se mostraram enegrecidos. Nos dois casos, C. septicum foi isolado, em ambiente anaeróbio, do líquido de edema das lesões musculares.(AU)

Two cases of acute necrotizing myositis caused by Clostridium septicum in horses are described. Both horses presented swelling of the right pelvic limb extending to the ventral abdominal region. The cut surface of the affected area revealed blood-stained edema and gas bubbles. The skeletal muscles of the caudal region of the thigh of the affect limbs had dark red discolored areas of blood-stained edema and crepitation; the deep musculature was dry. The main histopathological findings were swelling, vacuolation and hyaline and floccular necrosis of skeletal myofibers; in between myofibers there were hemorrhage, edema and large amounts of bacilli. In both cases, C. septicum was isolated from the edema fluid of muscular lesions.(AU)