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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Mielolipoma de adrenal funcional em um cão / Functional adrenal myelolipoma in a dog

Background: Myelolipomas are benign tumors composed of a mixture of fat and hematopoietic tissue similar to the bone marrow. They are rare tumors in humans and dogs, and occur generally in the spleen, liver, spinal canal and in the adrenal glands. When they develop in the adrenal glands they feature non-secretory and endocrinologically inactive characteristics, usually without clinical signs or other dysfunctions. Thus, they are often an incidental finding during necropsy. This paper aims to describe a case of functional adrenal gland myelolipoma and spleen myelolipoma in a female dog with clinical signs and laboratory tests compatible with hyperadrenocorticism.Case: A 12 year-old female dog, undefined breed, was treated at the Hospital Unit for Companion Animals of the Pontifical Catholic University of Paraná (PUCPR), São José dos Pinhais, Paraná, Brazil, with polyuria, polydipsia, polyphagia, cutaneous hypotonia and central obesity. Blood tests showed hypercholesterolemia and increased alkaline phosphatase; urinalysis identified isostenuria with proteinuria; and ultrasound and MRI of the abdomen indicated right adrenomegaly, with heterogeneous characteristics, without invasion of attached blood vessels and splenic nodules. The low dose dexamethasone suppression test was performed which confirmed hyperadrenocorticism. The animal was submitted to adrenalectomy and splenectomy, and tissue specimens were obtained for histopathological examination, which revealed mature adipocytes and hematopoietic elements in different phases of maturation, compatible with adrenal and spleen myelolipoma. After surgical treatment, there was a progressive improvement of the clinical manifestations and laboratory abnormalities of hypercortisolemia, without recurrence during one year.[...]

Mielolipoma de adrenal funcional em um cão / Functional adrenal myelolipoma in a dog

Background: Myelolipomas are benign tumors composed of a mixture of fat and hematopoietic tissue similar to the bone marrow. They are rare tumors in humans and dogs, and occur generally in the spleen, liver, spinal canal and in the adrenal glands. When they develop in the adrenal glands they feature non-secretory and endocrinologically inactive characteristics, usually without clinical signs or other dysfunctions. Thus, they are often an incidental finding during necropsy. This paper aims to describe a case of functional adrenal gland myelolipoma and spleen myelolipoma in a female dog with clinical signs and laboratory tests compatible with hyperadrenocorticism.Case: A 12 year-old female dog, undefined breed, was treated at the Hospital Unit for Companion Animals of the Pontifical Catholic University of Paraná (PUCPR), São José dos Pinhais, Paraná, Brazil, with polyuria, polydipsia, polyphagia, cutaneous hypotonia and central obesity. Blood tests showed hypercholesterolemia and increased alkaline phosphatase; urinalysis identified isostenuria with proteinuria; and ultrasound and MRI of the abdomen indicated right adrenomegaly, with heterogeneous characteristics, without invasion of attached blood vessels and splenic nodules. The low dose dexamethasone suppression test was performed which confirmed hyperadrenocorticism. The animal was submitted to adrenalectomy and splenectomy, and tissue specimens were obtained for histopathological examination, which revealed mature adipocytes and hematopoietic elements in different phases of maturation, compatible with adrenal and spleen myelolipoma. After surgical treatment, there was a progressive improvement of the clinical manifestations and laboratory abnormalities of hypercortisolemia, without recurrence during one year.[...](AU)

The epidemiological and clinical aspects of Demodex injai demodicosis in dogs: a report of eight cases / Aspectos epidemiológicos e clínicos da demodiciose por Demodex injai em cães: relato de oito casos

The mite Demodex injai causes demodicosis, an uncommon, chronic, and recurrent parasitic dermatopathy in dogs. Demodicosis is characterized by an excessive proliferation of the Demodex injai mite in the pilosebaceous unit. Typically, demodicosis occurs in adults, and is associated with an underlying disease or a specific host immunodeficiency. Here, we describe the epidemiological, clinical, dermatological, and therapeutic aspects of Demodex injai demodicosis in dogs (n=8) at the Hospital Unit for Companion Animals of the Pontifical Catholic University of Paraná in Brazil. The affected dogs were predominantly purebred, had a mean age of eight years, and showed no gender predisposition. The lesions were predominantly alopecic and erythematous-desquamatory, associated with follicular dyskeratosis and greasiness of the coat, and mainly affected the facial region, in addition to the back and limbs. The animals had a history of allergic, dyskeratotic, endocrine, neoplastic, and immunosuppressive comorbidities. The diagnosis of demodicosis was based on multiple skin scrapings, trichogram, and acetate tape impression of the lesion areas, macroscopic observation, and morphological characterization of the mite. Macrocyclic lactones were effectively used for treatment in most cases; however, improvement of the condition may be related to adjunctive treatment of the underlying disease.(AU)

Demodiciose provocada pelo ácaro Demodex injai é uma dermatopatia parasitária, crônica, recorrente, incomum em cães, caracterizada pela proliferação excessiva do ácaro na unidade pilossebácea. É frequentemente caracterizada como de surto adulto, generalizada e associada a uma doença de base ou a uma imunodeficiência específica inerente ao hospedeiro. O presente relato tem como objetivo descrever os aspectos epidemiológicos, clínico-dermatológicos e o tratamento da demodiciose por Demodex injai em cães (n=8) atendidos na Unidade Hospitalar para Animais de Companhia da Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Paraná, em São José dos Pinhais, Paraná, Brasil. Os animais acometidos apresentaram idade média de oito anos, predominantemente de raças puras e não houve predisposição sexual. As lesões tinham características predominantemente alopécicas e eritêmato-descamativas, associadas à disqueratose folicular e untuosidade da pelagem, acometendo principalmente a região da face, mas também o dorso e os membros. Os animais apresentavam histórico de comorbidades alérgicas, disqueratóticas, endócrinas, neoplásicas ou imunossupressivas de base. O diagnóstico da demodiciose foi estabelecido por múltiplos raspados de pele, tricograma e técnica de beliscamento por fita adesiva em áreas lesionais, seguindo à observação macroscópica e caracterização morfológica do ácaro. Instituiu-se tratamento com lactonas macrocíclicas, que se mostraram eficazes na maioria dos casos, entretanto, ainvolução do quadro pode estar relacionado ao tratamento adjunto das doenças de base.(AU)

Vulvar lymphangiosarcoma in a bitch

Background: Lymphangiosarcoma (LSA) is a rare, highly malignant and infiltrative neoplasm of the lymphatic endothelium of dogs and cats. It is mostly reported in medium to large breed dogs, over 5-year-old, with no sexual predisposition. Affected animals present fluctuating and diffuse swelling, covering both dermis and subcutaneous tissue, spreading through lymphatic and haematic vessels. Histologically, LSA is characterized by connected channels devoid of conspicuous haematic elements. Treatment depends on location of the neoplasm, staging, and possibility of curative surgical excision. Chemotherapy and radiotherapy can increase survival time. In this report, we describe a rare case of vulvar LSA in a dog. This is the first Brazilian report of LSA in dogs so far.Case: A 3-year-old, female, mixed breed dog was presented for evaluation of vesicle-bullous lesions in the vulvar and perivulvar region with progressive growth along 6 month. Histopathology revealed neoplastic proliferation in the superficial dermis, advancing through the profound dermis. The histological lesion pattern was consistent with angiosarcoma, which united along with macroscopic pattern of the tumor, and the presence of multiple anastomosed vascular structures without erythrocytes within it at microscopy, was compatible with LSA. No evidence of metastasis or lymphadenopathy was found on survey radiography and ultrasound. We performed a surgical excision, and remaining wound was reconstructed with an advancement skin flap. Despite wide surgical resection, neoplastic cells could be found in surgical borders, as well as a metastatic inguinal lymph node. Postoperative chemotherapy based on doxorubicin as a single agent was administrated. Disease free interval (DFI) was one month after surgery, when small bullous lesions were observed near the surgical site, and histopathological exam confirmed LSA...

The epidemiological and clinical aspects of Demodex injai demodicosis in dogs: a report of eight cases / Aspectos epidemiológicos e clínicos da demodiciose por Demodex injai em cães: relato de oito casos

The mite Demodex injai causes demodicosis, an uncommon, chronic, and recurrent parasitic dermatopathy in dogs. Demodicosis is characterized by an excessive proliferation of the Demodex injai mite in the pilosebaceous unit. Typically, demodicosis occurs in adults, and is associated with an underlying disease or a specific host immunodeficiency. Here, we describe the epidemiological, clinical, dermatological, and therapeutic aspects of Demodex injai demodicosis in dogs (n=8) at the Hospital Unit for Companion Animals of the Pontifical Catholic University of Paraná in Brazil. The affected dogs were predominantly purebred, had a mean age of eight years, and showed no gender predisposition. The lesions were predominantly alopecic and erythematous-desquamatory, associated with follicular dyskeratosis and greasiness of the coat, and mainly affected the facial region, in addition to the back and limbs. The animals had a history of allergic, dyskeratotic, endocrine, neoplastic, and immunosuppressive comorbidities. The diagnosis of demodicosis was based on multiple skin scrapings, trichogram, and acetate tape impression of the lesion areas, macroscopic observation, and morphological characterization of the mite. Macrocyclic lactones were effectively used for treatment in most cases; however, improvement of the condition may be related to adjunctive treatment of the underlying disease.

Demodiciose provocada pelo ácaro Demodex injai é uma dermatopatia parasitária, crônica, recorrente, incomum em cães, caracterizada pela proliferação excessiva do ácaro na unidade pilossebácea. É frequentemente caracterizada como de surto adulto, generalizada e associada a uma doença de base ou a uma imunodeficiência específica inerente ao hospedeiro. O presente relato tem como objetivo descrever os aspectos epidemiológicos, clínico-dermatológicos e o tratamento da demodiciose por Demodex injai em cães (n=8) atendidos na Unidade Hospitalar para Animais de Companhia da Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Paraná, em São José dos Pinhais, Paraná, Brasil. Os animais acometidos apresentaram idade média de oito anos, predominantemente de raças puras e não houve predisposição sexual. As lesões tinham características predominantemente alopécicas e eritêmato-descamativas, associadas à disqueratose folicular e untuosidade da pelagem, acometendo principalmente a região da face, mas também o dorso e os membros. Os animais apresentavam histórico de comorbidades alérgicas, disqueratóticas, endócrinas, neoplásicas ou imunossupressivas de base. O diagnóstico da demodiciose foi estabelecido por múltiplos raspados de pele, tricograma e técnica de beliscamento por fita adesiva em áreas lesionais, seguindo à observação macroscópica e caracterização

The epidemiological and clinical aspects of Demodex injai demodicosis in dogs: a report of eight cases / Aspectos epidemiológicos e clínicos da demodiciose por Demodex injai em cães: relato de oito casos

The mite Demodex injai causes demodicosis, an uncommon, chronic, and recurrent parasitic dermatopathy in dogs. Demodicosis is characterized by an excessive proliferation of the Demodex injai mite in the pilosebaceous unit. Typically, demodicosis occurs in adults, and is associated with an underlying disease or a specific host immunodeficiency. Here, we describe the epidemiological, clinical, dermatological, and therapeutic aspects of Demodex injai demodicosis in dogs (n=8) at the Hospital Unit for Companion Animals of the Pontifical Catholic University of Paraná in Brazil. The affected dogs were predominantly purebred, had a mean age of eight years, and showed no gender predisposition. The lesions were predominantly alopecic and erythematous-desquamatory, associated with follicular dyskeratosis and greasiness of the coat, and mainly affected the facial region, in addition to the back and limbs. The animals had a history of allergic, dyskeratotic, endocrine, neoplastic, and immunosuppressive comorbidities. The diagnosis of demodicosis was based on multiple skin scrapings, trichogram, and acetate tape impression of the lesion areas, macroscopic observation, and morphological characterization of the mite. Macrocyclic lactones were effectively used for treatment in most cases; however, improvement of the condition may be related to adjunctive treatment of the underlying disease.

Demodiciose provocada pelo ácaro Demodex injai é uma dermatopatia parasitária, crônica, recorrente, incomum em cães, caracterizada pela proliferação excessiva do ácaro na unidade pilossebácea. É frequentemente caracterizada como de surto adulto, generalizada e associada a uma doença de base ou a uma imunodeficiência específica inerente ao hospedeiro. O presente relato tem como objetivo descrever os aspectos epidemiológicos, clínico-dermatológicos e o tratamento da demodiciose por Demodex injai em cães (n=8) atendidos na Unidade Hospitalar para Animais de Companhia da Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Paraná, em São José dos Pinhais, Paraná, Brasil. Os animais acometidos apresentaram idade média de oito anos, predominantemente de raças puras e não houve predisposição sexual. As lesões tinham características predominantemente alopécicas e eritêmato-descamativas, associadas à disqueratose folicular e untuosidade da pelagem, acometendo principalmente a região da face, mas também o dorso e os membros. Os animais apresentavam histórico de comorbidades alérgicas, disqueratóticas, endócrinas, neoplásicas ou imunossupressivas de base. O diagnóstico da demodiciose foi estabelecido por múltiplos raspados de pele, tricograma e técnica de beliscamento por fita adesiva em áreas lesionais, seguindo à observação macroscópica e caracterização

Vulvar lymphangiosarcoma in a bitch

Background: Lymphangiosarcoma (LSA) is a rare, highly malignant and infiltrative neoplasm of the lymphatic endothelium of dogs and cats. It is mostly reported in medium to large breed dogs, over 5-year-old, with no sexual predisposition. Affected animals present fluctuating and diffuse swelling, covering both dermis and subcutaneous tissue, spreading through lymphatic and haematic vessels. Histologically, LSA is characterized by connected channels devoid of conspicuous haematic elements. Treatment depends on location of the neoplasm, staging, and possibility of curative surgical excision. Chemotherapy and radiotherapy can increase survival time. In this report, we describe a rare case of vulvar LSA in a dog. This is the first Brazilian report of LSA in dogs so far.Case: A 3-year-old, female, mixed breed dog was presented for evaluation of vesicle-bullous lesions in the vulvar and perivulvar region with progressive growth along 6 month. Histopathology revealed neoplastic proliferation in the superficial dermis, advancing through the profound dermis. The histological lesion pattern was consistent with angiosarcoma, which united along with macroscopic pattern of the tumor, and the presence of multiple anastomosed vascular structures without erythrocytes within it at microscopy, was compatible with LSA. No evidence of metastasis or lymphadenopathy was found on survey radiography and ultrasound. We performed a surgical excision, and remaining wound was reconstructed with an advancement skin flap. Despite wide surgical resection, neoplastic cells could be found in surgical borders, as well as a metastatic inguinal lymph node. Postoperative chemotherapy based on doxorubicin as a single agent was administrated. Disease free interval (DFI) was one month after surgery, when small bullous lesions were observed near the surgical site, and histopathological exam confirmed LSA...(AU)

The epidemiological and clinical aspects of Demodex injai demodicosis in dogs: a report of eight cases / Aspectos epidemiológicos e clínicos da demodiciose por Demodex injai em cães: relato de oito casos

The mite Demodex injai causes demodicosis, an uncommon, chronic, and recurrent parasitic dermatopathy in dogs. Demodicosis is characterized by an excessive proliferation of the Demodex injai mite in the pilosebaceous unit. Typically, demodicosis occurs in adults, and is associated with an underlying disease or a specific host immunodeficiency. Here, we describe the epidemiological, clinical, dermatological, and therapeutic aspects of Demodex injai demodicosis in dogs (n=8) at the Hospital Unit for Companion Animals of the Pontifical Catholic University of Paraná in Brazil. The affected dogs were predominantly purebred, had a mean age of eight years, and showed no gender predisposition. The lesions were predominantly alopecic and erythematous-desquamatory, associated with follicular dyskeratosis and greasiness of the coat, and mainly affected the facial region, in addition to the back and limbs. The animals had a history of allergic, dyskeratotic, endocrine, neoplastic, and immunosuppressive comorbidities. The diagnosis of demodicosis was based on multiple skin scrapings, trichogram, and acetate tape impression of the lesion areas, macroscopic observation, and morphological characterization of the mite. Macrocyclic lactones were effectively used for treatment in most cases; however, improvement of the condition may be related to adjunctive treatment of the underlying disease.

Demodiciose provocada pelo ácaro Demodex injai é uma dermatopatia parasitária, crônica, recorrente, incomum em cães, caracterizada pela proliferação excessiva do ácaro na unidade pilossebácea. É frequentemente caracterizada como de surto adulto, generalizada e associada a uma doença de base ou a uma imunodeficiência específica inerente ao hospedeiro. O presente relato tem como objetivo descrever os aspectos epidemiológicos, clínico-dermatológicos e o tratamento da demodiciose por Demodex injai em cães (n=8) atendidos na Unidade Hospitalar para Animais de Companhia da Pontifícia Universidade Católica do Paraná, em São José dos Pinhais, Paraná, Brasil. Os animais acometidos apresentaram idade média de oito anos, predominantemente de raças puras e não houve predisposição sexual. As lesões tinham características predominantemente alopécicas e eritêmato-descamativas, associadas à disqueratose folicular e untuosidade da pelagem, acometendo principalmente a região da face, mas também o dorso e os membros. Os animais apresentavam histórico de comorbidades alérgicas, disqueratóticas, endócrinas, neoplásicas ou imunossupressivas de base. O diagnóstico da demodiciose foi estabelecido por múltiplos raspados de pele, tricograma e técnica de beliscamento por fita adesiva em áreas lesionais, seguindo à observação macroscópica e caracterização morfológica do ácaro. Instituiu-se tratamento com

Use of Staphylococcus aureus phage Lysate Staphage Lysate (SPL)® for the control of recurrent pyoderma eczema in dogs with atopic dermatitis

Background: Recurrent staphylococcal infections are frequent in dogs with atopic dermatitis (AD). Many factors seem to contribute to making bacterial pyoderma refractory to treatment. Short-term systemic antibiotic therapy is effective for the treatment of acute symptoms, and may, along with pulsatile therapy, contribute to the long-term control of the disease. However, microbial resistance has become a growing and alarming problem. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether the use of Staphylococcus aureus Phage Lysate Staphage Lysate (SPL)®, can minimize the symptoms of recurrent pyoderma and increase the interval between acute atopic manifestations in dogs. Materials, Methods & Results: Thirteen dogs with a history of Canine Atopic Dematitis (CAD) and recurrent bacterial pyoderma received SPL at increasing intervals for 23 weeks. The contents of an intact pustule of each dog was collected and submitted to microbiological analysis. Systemic antibiotic therapy was established for the first 4-6 weeks of SPL protocol, based on the antibiotic sensitivity tests. The animals included in the study underwent a therapeutic protocol receiving shots of 0.5 mL of SPL subcutaneously (SC) twice a week for the first 12 weeks; 1.0 mL of SPL (SC) once a week for four weeks; 1.0 mL of SPL (SC) once every 15 days; 1.0 mL of SPL (SC) after a three-week interval from the last dose on week [...]

Idiopathic diffuse lipomatosis in dogs

Background: Idiopathic diffuse lipomatosis is a rare disease in veterinary medicine. It is characterized by excessive proliferation of adipocytes, which results in the formation of fatty tumours throughout the body. In humans, this disease is also known as Madelungs disease or multiple symmetric lipomatosis and is classified as type I and II. The aim of this study was to investigate two cases of dogs diagnosed with idiopathic diffuse lipomatosis and compare their characteristics with those found in humans. Cases: Case 1 - A 3-year-old standard poodle female was taken for veterinary evaluation for a slow-growing tumoural lesion over the neck and trunk. The tumours measured >30 cm in diameter that caused irregular and protruding folds resulting in a significant loss of body architecture. No clinical signs of adjacent systemic disease were observed. Elliptical excisions of the skin revealed diffuse mature adipocytes and hyperplastic and dysplastic lipoblast hypertrophy of the panniculus, which was associated with epidermodermal hypotrophy and skin appendages. The combination of these findings supported a diagnosis of idiopathic diffuse lipomatosis. The animal underwent surgical therapy. However, the clinical symptoms recurred within two months. Owing to the continuous recurrence of tumours and history of three other surgeries, it was decided to euthanize the animal. [...]

Idiopathic diffuse lipomatosis in dogs

Background: Idiopathic diffuse lipomatosis is a rare disease in veterinary medicine. It is characterized by excessive proliferation of adipocytes, which results in the formation of fatty tumours throughout the body. In humans, this disease is also known as Madelungs disease or multiple symmetric lipomatosis and is classified as type I and II. The aim of this study was to investigate two cases of dogs diagnosed with idiopathic diffuse lipomatosis and compare their characteristics with those found in humans. Cases: Case 1 - A 3-year-old standard poodle female was taken for veterinary evaluation for a slow-growing tumoural lesion over the neck and trunk. The tumours measured >30 cm in diameter that caused irregular and protruding folds resulting in a significant loss of body architecture. No clinical signs of adjacent systemic disease were observed. Elliptical excisions of the skin revealed diffuse mature adipocytes and hyperplastic and dysplastic lipoblast hypertrophy of the panniculus, which was associated with epidermodermal hypotrophy and skin appendages. The combination of these findings supported a diagnosis of idiopathic diffuse lipomatosis. The animal underwent surgical therapy. However, the clinical symptoms recurred within two months. Owing to the continuous recurrence of tumours and history of three other surgeries, it was decided to euthanize the animal. [...](AU)

Use of Staphylococcus aureus phage Lysate Staphage Lysate (SPL)® for the control of recurrent pyoderma eczema in dogs with atopic dermatitis

Background: Recurrent staphylococcal infections are frequent in dogs with atopic dermatitis (AD). Many factors seem to contribute to making bacterial pyoderma refractory to treatment. Short-term systemic antibiotic therapy is effective for the treatment of acute symptoms, and may, along with pulsatile therapy, contribute to the long-term control of the disease. However, microbial resistance has become a growing and alarming problem. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether the use of Staphylococcus aureus Phage Lysate Staphage Lysate (SPL)®, can minimize the symptoms of recurrent pyoderma and increase the interval between acute atopic manifestations in dogs. Materials, Methods & Results: Thirteen dogs with a history of Canine Atopic Dematitis (CAD) and recurrent bacterial pyoderma received SPL at increasing intervals for 23 weeks. The contents of an intact pustule of each dog was collected and submitted to microbiological analysis. Systemic antibiotic therapy was established for the first 4-6 weeks of SPL protocol, based on the antibiotic sensitivity tests. The animals included in the study underwent a therapeutic protocol receiving shots of 0.5 mL of SPL subcutaneously (SC) twice a week for the first 12 weeks; 1.0 mL of SPL (SC) once a week for four weeks; 1.0 mL of SPL (SC) once every 15 days; 1.0 mL of SPL (SC) after a three-week interval from the last dose on week [...](AU)

Sebaceous adenitis in a cat

Background: Sebaceous adenitis is an inflammatory, dyskeratotic, and chronic disorder, characterized by the degeneration and post-inflammatory atrophy of sebaceous gland, which rarely affects cats. The objective of this paper is to report a case of sebaceous adenitis in a cat, located in the region of Curitiba, Paraná, Brazil. Case: A 12-year-old female cat, crossbreed, with hypotrichosis, alopecia and moderate to intense itching in the dorsal thorax region, limbs and face, which were evolving during a month. Dermatological exams were done, as well as trichogram, fungal culture, sticky-tape test, skin scraping, and parasitological assessments of cerumen, and all of them were normal. Histopathological examination revealed hair follicles at all stages of development, some showing hyperkeratosis with cystic dilation and complete absence of sebaceous glands. In periadnexal region, it showed mild inflammatory infiltrate composed by lymphocytes, histiocytes and neutrophils, which legitimated a definitive diagnosis of sebaceous adenitis. The treatment was made using emollient shampoo, ciclosporin and emollient product based on fatty acids and ceramides, and after one month, the lesions, erythema and pruritus regressed. Due to the clinical improvement, it was possible to keep the animal with ciclosporin (5.0 mg/kg, p.o, every two days) and Allerderm spot-on (once weekly), obtaining pos...