Metabolomic profile in patients with primary warm autoimmune haemolytic anaemia.

Autoimmune haemolytic anaemia (AIHA) is a rare clinical condition with immunoglobulin fixation on the surface of erythrocytes, with or without complement activation. The pathophysiology of AIHA is complex and multifactorial, presenting functional abnormalities of T and B lymphocytes that generate an imbalance between lymphocyte activation, immunotolerance and cytokine production that culminates in autoimmune haemolysis. In AIHA, further laboratory data are needed to predict relapse and refractoriness of therapy, and thus, prevent adverse side-effects and treatment-induced toxicity. The metabolomic profile of AIHA has not yet been described. Our group developed a cross-sectional study with follow-up to assess the metabolomic profile in these patients, as well as to compare the metabolites found depending on the activity and intensity of haemolysis. We analysed the plasma of 26 patients with primary warm AIHA compared to 150 healthy individuals by mass spectrometry. Of the 95 metabolites found in the patients with AIHA, four acylcarnitines, two phosphatidylcholines (PC), asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA) and three sphingomyelins were significantly increased. There was an increase in PC, spermine and spermidine in the AIHA group with haemolytic activity. The PC ae 34:3/PC ae 40:2 ratio, seen only in the 12-month relapse group, was a predictor of relapse with 81% specificity and 100% sensitivity. Increased sphingomyelin, ADMA, PC and polyamines in patients with warm AIHA can interfere in autoantigen and autoimmune recognition mechanisms in a number of ways (deficient action of regulatory T lymphocytes on erythrocyte recognition as self, negative regulation of macrophage nuclear factor kappa beta activity, perpetuation of effector T lymphocyte and antibody production against erythrocyte antigens). The presence of PC ae 34:3/PC ae 40:2 ratio as a relapse predictor can help in identifying cases that require more frequent follow-up or early second-line therapies.

Plasma and Peritoneal Ceftriaxone Concentrations After Intraperitoneal Administration in Horses With Septic Peritonitis.

Intraperitoneal ceftriaxone administration in healthy horses results in high and prolonged peritoneal concentrations. Recent findings suggest that intraperitoneal ceftriaxone might increase survival rates in horses affected by peritonitis. The present study aimed to evaluate plasma and peritoneal concentrations of ceftriaxone after intraperitoneal administration in horses with septic peritonitis. Twenty-six horses presenting clinical, laboratorial, and sonographic findings compatible with the disease were included. All horses received daily intraperitoneal ceftriaxone (25 mg/kg bwt) in addition or not with other antibiotics and support therapies. High-performance liquid chromatography was used to determine plasma and peritoneal ceftriaxone concentrations before and after 12 and 24 hours of ceftriaxone administration. Mean plasma concentrations 12 and 24 hours after administration were, respectively, 1.84 ± 0.43 and 0.37 ± 0.07 µg/mL, and mean peritoneal concentrations were 5.7 ± 2.84 and 0.42 ± 0.13 µg/mL. Ceftriaxone concentration was lower in comparison with previous studies in healthy horses and presented under the minimal inhibitory concentration for enterobacteria (≤1 µg/mL) and for gram-positive isolates (≤0.5 µg/mL) at 24 hours. The variation of the results obtained between healthy horses and with septic peritonitis demonstrated that pharmacokinetics/dynamics are different between these patients and suggests the use of an interval of dose of 12 hours.

Inflammatory Response of Healthy Horses Subjected to Small Colon Enterotomy and Treated or Not With Heparin.

The acute phase response is a response to injury and depends on the severity of the trauma. Heparin is routinely used for postsurgical treatment of horses to prevent abdominal adhesions; however, its effect on inflammation is unknown. This study aimed to assess systemic inflammatory response of horses subjected to small colon enterotomy and to evaluate heparin effects on postsurgical inflammation. Ten adult horses were subjected to small colon enterotomy and were assigned to a control or a treatment group. Both groups received prophylactic antibiotics and flunixin, and the treatment group received 150 IU/kg heparin subcutaneously after surgery and every 12 hours for five days. WBC counts, peritoneal fluid evaluation, determination of serum and peritoneal haptoglobin (Hp), and serum amyloid A (SAA) were performed before, 12 hours, and 1, 2, 4, 6, 10, and 14 days after enterotomy. Forty-eight hours after surgery, a significant increase in serum Hp was observed in the control group, and SAA concentrations increased significantly in the both groups between 24 hours, 48 hours, and 4 days after surgery. The SAA and serum Hp concentrations produced no significant differences between the groups. Peritoneal Hp increased significantly in the control group 4 days after surgery and was significantly higher in the control group than in the treated group 14 days after surgery. Serum Hp and SAA identified the acute phase response changes faster, however, were not able to identify differences between groups. Peritoneal Hp concentrations identified inflammatory differences between the groups 14 days after surgery; the difference suggests that heparin may act decreasing inflammation.

Dorsal Displacement of the Soft Palate Secondary to Persistent Frenulum of the Epiglottis in Neonatal Foal.

Dorsal displacement of the soft palate (DDSP) usually occurs in athletic adult horses. Congenital DDSP in foals secondary to the persistent frenulum of the epiglottis is rarely observed. The aim of this report was to describe a case of a seven-day-old female neonate Quarter Horse presenting dysphagia, milk reflux through the nostrils and mouth, and expiratory dyspnea since 4 days. Thoracic auscultation was indicative of aspiration pneumonia. Diagnosis of DDSP associated with local inflammation was made after endoscopic examination of upper respiratory tract. Radiographic examination was performed to rule out hypoplasia of the epiglottis. No clinical improvement was observed after anti-inflammatory treatment with flunixin meglumine. Oral endoscopy under general anesthesia revealed that the displacement of the soft palate was caused by a persistent frenulum of the epiglottis. Using a 30° rigid endoscope and a curved laparoscopic scissors, the frenulum was transected. After surgery, no dysphagia or dyspnea at rest was observed. However, discreet respiratory noise persisted during exercise for 5 days postoperatively. After discharge, the owner reported that the animal was completely normal during exercise. The animal is currently 3 years old and is developing a normal athletic performance. Persistent frenulum of the epiglottis should be considered while examining neonates with nasal milk reflux associated with expiratory dyspnea. This case report emphasizes the importance of the differential diagnosis for DDSP and for DDSP secondary to the persistent frenulum of the epiglottis in neonatal foals. It also underlines the importance of oral endoscopic examination for diagnosis.

Surgical Repair of an Occipital Meningocele in a Foal.

There are no previous reports of cranial meningocele in horses. In this report, we present the case of a 1-day-old male Quarter Horse that was born with a mass in the occipital region. The newborn was brought to the veterinary hospital, and a meningocele was diagnosed. The patient then underwent surgical closure of the defect. After an initial favorable response, the patient displayed signs of infection. The antibiotic therapy was changed, and the patient's condition improved. On the 13th postoperative day, the patient exhibited ataxia, difficulty standing, and limb hypertonia. Hydrocephalus was suspected, and a cerebrospinal puncture was performed. Because of the lack of improvement after the puncture and the high turbidity of the obtained fluid, bacterial encephalitis was suspected and antibiotic therapy restarted. The patient was euthanized on the 14th postoperative day when no response to therapy was observed. Postmortem tomography and magnetic resonance imaging showed dilation of the encephalic ventricles with the presence of gas. On necropsy, bacterial encephalitis was confirmed, and multidrug-resistant Escherichia coli was isolated. This case suggests that surgical treatment of meningocele in horses is feasible; however, infectious complications may limit the long-term therapeutic success.

Retrospective study of radiographic changes in athletic bulls with orthopedic disorders / Estudo retrospectivo das alterações radiográficas de touros atletas com doenças ortopédicas

The objectives of this study were to demonstrate the lesions that affect athlete bulls and to correlate the disorders with weight, age, affected limb and region of the limb. The present study was accomplished using radiographic images of athletic rodeo bulls collected from the medical and surgical records of the large animal service at the veterinary hospital. Radiographic images were evaluated for 136 bulls that were taken care of at the Veterinary Hospital, ranging in age from 4 to 13 years, with an average weight of 800kg and proven prior physical activity through participation in rodeos. The chi-square or Fisher's exact test was used to assess the association between the studied variables. It was observed that 71.6% of the bulls studied and suffering from lameness had radiographic lesions, predominantly in experienced animals. Enthesopathy in starter and experienced bulls, septic arthritis in starter bulls, and fractures and degenerative joint disease in experienced bulls were the most frequent radiographic lesions diagnosed. The region of limb where the majority of radiographic changes occurred was the digits. Risk factors and occurrence of diseases of the locomotor system in athletic bulls are similar to those in sport equines.(AU)

O objetivo desse trabalho foi demostrar quais lesões acometem touros atletas, correlacionando as desordens com peso, idade, membro e região afetada. O presente estudo foi realizado utilizando radiografias de touros atletas de rodeio, após levantamento dos prontuários clínicos e cirúrgicos do serviço de grandes animais de um hospital veterinário. Foram avaliadas radiografias de 136 touros que haviam sido atendidos em tal hospital, com idade variando de quatro a 13 anos, com média de peso de 800kg e realizavam participação em rodeios. Para avaliar a associação entre as variáveis estudadas foi utilizado o teste exato de Fischer e o Qui-quadrado. Observou-se que 71,6% dos touros estudados que claudicavam, apresentavam lesões radiográficas, predominantemente em animais mais experientes. A entesiopatia em todos os animais, artrite séptica nos touros iniciantes, fraturas e doença articular degenerativa nos touros mais experientes, foram as alterações radiográficas mais frequentes. As regiões com maior ocorrência de lesões radiográficas foram os dígitos. Os fatores de risco para ocorrência de doenças no sistema locomotor de touros atletas são diversos, similares aos que ocorrem nos equinos atletas.(AU)

Retrospective study of radiographic changes in athletic bulls with orthopedic disorders / Estudo retrospectivo das alterações radiográficas de touros atletas com doenças ortopédicas

The objectives of this study were to demonstrate the lesions that affect athlete bulls and to correlate the disorders with weight, age, affected limb and region of the limb. The present study was accomplished using radiographic images of athletic rodeo bulls collected from the medical and surgical records of the large animal service at the veterinary hospital. Radiographic images were evaluated for 136 bulls that were taken care of at the Veterinary Hospital, ranging in age from 4 to 13 years, with an average weight of 800kg and proven prior physical activity through participation in rodeos. The chi-square or Fisher's exact test was used to assess the association between the studied variables. It was observed that 71.6% of the bulls studied and suffering from lameness had radiographic lesions, predominantly in experienced animals. Enthesopathy in starter and experienced bulls, septic arthritis in starter bulls, and fractures and degenerative joint disease in experienced bulls were the most frequent radiographic lesions diagnosed. The region of limb where the majority of radiographic changes occurred was the digits. Risk factors and occurrence of diseases of the locomotor system in athletic bulls are similar to those in sport equines.(AU)

O objetivo desse trabalho foi demostrar quais lesões acometem touros atletas, correlacionando as desordens com peso, idade, membro e região afetada. O presente estudo foi realizado utilizando radiografias de touros atletas de rodeio, após levantamento dos prontuários clínicos e cirúrgicos do serviço de grandes animais de um hospital veterinário. Foram avaliadas radiografias de 136 touros que haviam sido atendidos em tal hospital, com idade variando de quatro a 13 anos, com média de peso de 800kg e realizavam participação em rodeios. Para avaliar a associação entre as variáveis estudadas foi utilizado o teste exato de Fischer e o Qui-quadrado. Observou-se que 71,6% dos touros estudados que claudicavam, apresentavam lesões radiográficas, predominantemente em animais mais experientes. A entesiopatia em todos os animais, artrite séptica nos touros iniciantes, fraturas e doença articular degenerativa nos touros mais experientes, foram as alterações radiográficas mais frequentes. As regiões com maior ocorrência de lesões radiográficas foram os dígitos. Os fatores de risco para ocorrência de doenças no sistema locomotor de touros atletas são diversos, similares aos que ocorrem nos equinos atletas.(AU)

Retrospective study of radiographic changes in athletic bulls with orthopedic disorders

ABSTRACT: The objectives of this study were to demonstrate the lesions that affect athlete bulls and to correlate the disorders with weight, age, affected limb and region of the limb. The present study was accomplished using radiographic images of athletic rodeo bulls collected from the medical and surgical records of the large animal service at the veterinary hospital. Radiographic images were evaluated for 136 bulls that were taken care of at the Veterinary Hospital, ranging in age from 4 to 13 years, with an average weight of 800kg and proven prior physical activity through participation in rodeos. The chi-square or Fishers exact test was used to assess the association between the studied variables. It was observed that 71.6% of the bulls studied and suffering from lameness had radiographic lesions, predominantly in experienced animals. Enthesopathy in starter and experienced bulls, septic arthritis in starter bulls, and fractures and degenerative joint disease in experienced bulls were the most frequent radiographic lesions diagnosed. The region of limb where the majority of radiographic changes occurred was the digits. Risk factors and occurrence of diseases of the locomotor system in athletic bulls are similar to those in sport equines.

RESUMO: O objetivo desse trabalho foi demostrar quais lesões acometem touros atletas, correlacionando as desordens com peso, idade, membro e região afetada. O presente estudo foi realizado utilizando radiografias de touros atletas de rodeio, após levantamento dos prontuários clínicos e cirúrgicos do serviço de grandes animais de um hospital veterinário. Foram avaliadas radiografias de 136 touros que haviam sido atendidos em tal hospital, com idade variando de quatro a 13 anos, com média de peso de 800kg e realizavam participação em rodeios. Para avaliar a associação entre as variáveis estudadas foi utilizado o teste exato de Fischer e o Qui-quadrado. Observou-se que 71,6% dos touros estudados que claudicavam, apresentavam lesões radiográficas, predominantemente em animais mais experientes. A entesiopatia em todos os animais, artrite séptica nos touros iniciantes, fraturas e doença articular degenerativa nos touros mais experientes, foram as alterações radiográficas mais frequentes. As regiões com maior ocorrência de lesões radiográficas foram os dígitos. Os fatores de risco para ocorrência de doenças no sistema locomotor de touros atletas são diversos, similares aos que ocorrem nos equinos atletas.

Plasma rico em plaquetas: estudo comparativo entre a dupla centrifugação e o filtro E-PET (Equine Platelet Enhancement Therapy) / Comparative study of double spin and use of E-PET filter (Equine Platelet Enhancement Therapy) to obtain platelet rich plasma in horses

O plasma rico em plaquetas (PRP) consiste em uma alta concentração de plaquetas em um pequeno volume de plasma, sendo, em média, quatro vezes maior que a concentração sérica. O uso de PRP é justificado pela alta concentração de fatores de crescimento presentes em grânulos no interior das plaquetas, que possuem diversas funções como proliferação celular, quimiotaxia, angiogênese e diferenciação celular, que ampliam o poder de reparação tecidual. Há diversos protocolos para obtenção do PRP em equinos descritos na literatura, dentre os quais destacam-se os de dupla centrifugação, os automatizados e os filtros. Há diferenças substanciais no conteúdo do PRP dependendo do seu método de obtenção, principalmente no que se diz respeito à quantidade de leucócitos, plaquetas e concentração de fatores de crescimento. Sendo assim, o objetivo deste estudo foi comparar a utilização do concentrado de plaquetas obtido por protocolo de dupla centrifugação e o obtido pelo filtro E-PET (Equine Platelet Enhancement Therapy), levando-se em consideração a concentração plaquetária e leucocitária final, a quantificação de fatores de crescimento (TGFß e PDGF-BB) e a facilidade de realização entre tais métodos. Utilizou-se nove animais para a obtenção de PRP por dupla centrifugação e através do filtro E-PET, não havendo diferença estatística (p>0,05) entre os métodos de obtenção em relação à concentração plaquetária e leucocitária, entretanto, houve diferença estatística (p=0,002; p=0,004, respectivamente) em relação a concentração de TGFß e PDGF-BB. Dessa forma, concluiu-se que o filtro E-PET mostrou-se um método mais efetivo, sendo possível sua utilização à campo, além de proporcionar uma maior concentração de fatores de crescimento TGFß e PDGF-BB.(AU)

The platelet-rich plasma (PRP) consists of a high concentration of platelets in a small volume of plasma, four times greater (average) than the serum concentration. The use of PRP is justified by the high concentration of growth factors present in granules in the platelets, which have several functions such as cell proliferation, chemotaxis, angiogenesis and differenciation, which extend the power of tissue repair. There are several protocols to obtain PRP in horses described in the literature, among which are highlighted the double centrifugation, automated and filters. There are substantial differences in the PRP content depending on its method of production, especially when it concerns the amount of leukocytes, platelets and concentration of growth factors. Thus, the aim of this study was to compare the use of platelet concentrates obtained by double centrifugation protocol and obtained by the filter E-PET (Equine Platelet Enhancement Therapy) taking into account the platelet and leukocyte final concentration, the quantification of growth factors (TGFß and PDGF-BB) and the facility to do those methods. Nine horses were used to obtain PRP by double centrifugation and through the E-PET filter, with no statistical difference (p>0.05) between the methods relative to the platelet and leukocyte concentration; however, there was statistical difference (p=0.002 and p=0.004 respectively) compared with the concentration of TGFß and PDGF-BB. It was concluded that the E-PET filter proved to be a more effective method possible to use in the field and to provide a higher concentration of growth factors (TGFß and PDGF-BB).(AU)

Plasma rico em plaquetas: estudo comparativo entre a dupla centrifugação e o filtro E-PET (Equine Platelet Enhancement Therapy) / Comparative study of double spin and use of E-PET filter (Equine Platelet Enhancement Therapy) to obtain platelet rich plasma in horses

O plasma rico em plaquetas (PRP) consiste em uma alta concentração de plaquetas em um pequeno volume de plasma, sendo, em média, quatro vezes maior que a concentração sérica. O uso de PRP é justificado pela alta concentração de fatores de crescimento presentes em grânulos no interior das plaquetas, que possuem diversas funções como proliferação celular, quimiotaxia, angiogênese e diferenciação celular, que ampliam o poder de reparação tecidual. Há diversos protocolos para obtenção do PRP em equinos descritos na literatura, dentre os quais destacam-se os de dupla centrifugação, os automatizados e os filtros. Há diferenças substanciais no conteúdo do PRP dependendo do seu método de obtenção, principalmente no que se diz respeito à quantidade de leucócitos, plaquetas e concentração de fatores de crescimento. Sendo assim, o objetivo deste estudo foi comparar a utilização do concentrado de plaquetas obtido por protocolo de dupla centrifugação e o obtido pelo filtro E-PET (Equine Platelet Enhancement Therapy), levando-se em consideração a concentração plaquetária e leucocitária final, a quantificação de fatores de crescimento (TGFß e PDGF-BB) e a facilidade de realização entre tais métodos. Utilizou-se nove animais para a obtenção de PRP por dupla centrifugação e através do filtro E-PET, não havendo diferença estatística (p>0,05) entre os métodos de obtenção em relação à concentração plaquetária e leucocitária, entretanto, houve diferença estatística (p=0,002; p=0,004, respectivamente) em relação a concentração de TGFß e PDGF-BB. Dessa forma, concluiu-se que o filtro E-PET mostrou-se um método mais efetivo, sendo possível sua utilização à campo, além de proporcionar uma maior concentração de fatores de crescimento TGFß e PDGF-BB.(AU)

The platelet-rich plasma (PRP) consists of a high concentration of platelets in a small volume of plasma, four times greater (average) than the serum concentration. The use of PRP is justified by the high concentration of growth factors present in granules in the platelets, which have several functions such as cell proliferation, chemotaxis, angiogenesis and differenciation, which extend the power of tissue repair. There are several protocols to obtain PRP in horses described in the literature, among which are highlighted the double centrifugation, automated and filters. There are substantial differences in the PRP content depending on its method of production, especially when it concerns the amount of leukocytes, platelets and concentration of growth factors. Thus, the aim of this study was to compare the use of platelet concentrates obtained by double centrifugation protocol and obtained by the filter E-PET (Equine Platelet Enhancement Therapy) taking into account the platelet and leukocyte final concentration, the quantification of growth factors (TGFß and PDGF-BB) and the facility to do those methods. Nine horses were used to obtain PRP by double centrifugation and through the E-PET filter, with no statistical difference (p>0.05) between the methods relative to the platelet and leukocyte concentration; however, there was statistical difference (p=0.002 and p=0.004 respectively) compared with the concentration of TGFß and PDGF-BB. It was concluded that the E-PET filter proved to be a more effective method possible to use in the field and to provide a higher concentration of growth factors (TGFß and PDGF-BB).(AU)

Thromboelastometric evaluation of horses submitted to experimental thrombosis and jugular thrombectomy / Avaliação tromboelastométrica de equinos submetidos a trombose e trombectomia jugular experimental

Jugular thrombosis in horses occurs commonly in iatrogenic situations, secondary to endotoxemic clinical condition and disseminated vascular coagulation, potentially leading to death. Thus, hemostatic evaluation becomes necessary and extremely important for monitoring the risks of systemic hypercoagulability and for the efficiency of allopathic and surgical treatment. This paper describes the hemostatic behavior in experimental jugular thrombosis of ten healthy equines, subsequently submitted to two thrombectomy techniques and receiving heparin sodium as anti-rethrombosis therapy. These animals were evaluated for 20 days by thromboelastometry (TEM), platelet count, hematocrit and fibrinogen, at four moments: pre-induction to phlebitis (D0-MPF); three days after thrombophlebitis induction (D3-MFM); 6 days after, - moment of thrombophlebitis - (D9-MT); and 54 (D16) and 126 (D19) hours after thrombectomies (PTM). Thrombectomy was performed via a Vollmar Ring (group 1, n=5) and Fogarty catheter (group 2, n=5). All the animals received heparin (150 UI/kg, SC) every 12 hours, for ten days after the respective thrombectomies. Through the blood samples were evaluated TEM, activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) and prothrombin time (PT), dosing of fibrinogen, hematocrit and platelet count at the abovementioned moments. For comparison between groups and moments the t test was applied at 5% significance level. No significant difference was verified between treatment groups at any of the moments. There were reductions in clotting time (CT) and clot formation time (CFT), with increase in maximum lysis (ML) until the moment D9-MT. [...] (AU)

A trombose jugular nos equinos ocorre comumente em situações iatrogênicas, secundárias a quadros endotoxêmicos e a coagulação vascular disseminada, podendo levar ao óbito. Por isso, avaliação hemostática se faz necessária e de extrema importância para monitorar os riscos de hipercoagulabilidade sistêmica e também a eficiência do tratamento alopático e cirúrgico. Este trabalho descreve o comportamento hemostático na trombose jugular experimental de dez equinos hígidos, submetidos posteriormente a duas técnicas de trombectomia e recebendo heparina sódica como terapia anti retrombosante. Estes animais foram avaliados durante 20 dias por tromboelastometria (TEM), contagem de plaquetas, hematócrito e fibrinogênio, em quatro momentos: pré-indução à flebite (D0-MPF); três dias após a indução da tromboflebite (D3-MFM); 6 dias após, - momento de tromboflebite - (D9-MT); e 54 (D16) e 126 (D19) horas após as trombectomias (MPT). A trombectomia foi realizada com Anel de Vollmar (grupo 1, n=5) e cateter de Fogarty (grupo 2, n=5). Todos os animais receberam heparina (150 UI/Kg, SC) a cada 12 horas, durante dez dias após as respectivas trombectomias. Através de amostras de sangue, foram avaliadas a TEM, o tempo de tromboplastia parcial ativada (TTPa) e tempo de protrombina (TP), a dosagem de fibrinogênio, hematócrito e contagem de plaquetas nos momentos descritos acima. Para a comparação entre os grupos e momentos foi aplicado teste t, com nível de significância de 5%. Não foi verificada diferença significativa entre os grupos de tratamento em nenhum dos momentos. Houve redução do tempo de coagulação (CT) e do tempo de formação do coágulo (CFT), com aumento da lise máxima (LM) até o momento D9-MT. A avaliação com o reagente intem apresentou prolongamento do CT e do CFT e redução do ângulo α e da LM a partir do D16 e D19. Da mesma forma, o TTPa apresentou diferenças significativas entre os momentos pré (D0, 3 e 9) e pós (D16 e 19) tratamento cirúrgico e anticoagulante.[...] (AU)

Thromboelastometric evaluation of horses submitted to experimental thrombosis and jugular thrombectomy / Avaliação tromboelastométrica de equinos submetidos a trombose e trombectomia jugular experimental

Jugular thrombosis in horses occurs commonly in iatrogenic situations, secondary to endotoxemic clinical condition and disseminated vascular coagulation, potentially leading to death. Thus, hemostatic evaluation becomes necessary and extremely important for monitoring the risks of systemic hypercoagulability and for the efficiency of allopathic and surgical treatment. This paper describes the hemostatic behavior in experimental jugular thrombosis of ten healthy equines, subsequently submitted to two thrombectomy techniques and receiving heparin sodium as anti-rethrombosis therapy. These animals were evaluated for 20 days by thromboelastometry (TEM), platelet count, hematocrit and fibrinogen, at four moments: pre-induction to phlebitis (D0-MPF); three days after thrombophlebitis induction (D3-MFM); 6 days after, - moment of thrombophlebitis - (D9-MT); and 54 (D16) and 126 (D19) hours after thrombectomies (PTM). Thrombectomy was performed via a Vollmar Ring (group 1, n=5) and Fogarty catheter (group 2, n=5). All the animals received heparin (150 UI/kg, SC) every 12 hours, for ten days after the respective thrombectomies. Through the blood samples were evaluated TEM, activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) and prothrombin time (PT), dosing of fibrinogen, hematocrit and platelet count at the abovementioned moments. For comparison between groups and moments the t test was applied at 5% significance level. No significant difference was verified between treatment groups at any of the moments. There were reductions in clotting time (CT) and clot formation time (CFT), with increase in maximum lysis (ML) until the moment D9-MT. Evaluation through INTEM® reagent presented prolongations of CT and CFT with reduction of α angle and ML starting from D16 and D19. Similarly, aPTT presented significant differences between moments pre- (D0, 3 and 9) and post- (D16 and 19) anticoagulant and surgical treatment. The platelet numbers were diminished at moments D16 and D19. In evaluation with EXTEM® reagent, prolongation of CT and CFT occurred only between the moments D0 vs. D3 and vs. D9. O PT did not present significant differences. The results obtained demonstrate that experimental jugular thrombophlebitis leads to local clinical alterations, with impairment of tissue and of the extrinsic coagulation pathway (EXTEM® ), but without evidence of systemic hypercoagulability status, since there was no increase of the alpha angle or maximum clot firmness (MCF). Furthermore, TEM was shown useful and more sensitive than conventional coagulation tests (PT, aPTT and fibrinogen) for the monitoring of anticoagulant therapy, as demonstrated in other works.(AU)

A trombose jugular nos equinos ocorre comumente em situações iatrogênicas, secundárias a quadros endotoxêmicos e a coagulação vascular disseminada, podendo levar ao óbito. Por isso, avaliação hemostática se faz necessária e de extrema importância para monitorar os riscos de hipercoagulabilidade sistêmica e também a eficiência do tratamento alopático e cirúrgico. Este trabalho descreve o comportamento hemostático na trombose jugular experimental de dez equinos hígidos, submetidos posteriormente a duas técnicas de trombectomia e recebendo heparina sódica como terapia anti retrombosante. Estes animais foram avaliados durante 20 dias por tromboelastometria (TEM), contagem de plaquetas, hematócrito e fibrinogênio, em quatro momentos: pré-indução à flebite (D0-MPF); três dias após a indução da tromboflebite (D3-MFM); 6 dias após, - momento de tromboflebite - (D9-MT); e 54 (D16) e 126 (D19) horas após as trombectomias (MPT). A trombectomia foi realizada com Anel de Vollmar (grupo 1, n=5) e cateter de Fogarty (grupo 2, n=5). Todos os animais receberam heparina (150 UI/Kg, SC) a cada 12 horas, durante dez dias após as respectivas trombectomias. Através de amostras de sangue, foram avaliadas a TEM, o tempo de tromboplastia parcial ativada (TTPa) e tempo de protrombina (TP), a dosagem de fibrinogênio, hematócrito e contagem de plaquetas nos momentos descritos acima. Para a comparação entre os grupos e momentos foi aplicado teste t, com nível de significância de 5%. Não foi verificada diferença significativa entre os grupos de tratamento em nenhum dos momentos. Houve redução do tempo de coagulação (CT) e do tempo de formação do coágulo (CFT), com aumento da lise máxima (LM) até o momento D9-MT. A avaliação com o reagente intem apresentou prolongamento do CT e do CFT e redução do ângulo α e da LM a partir do D16 e D19. Da mesma forma, o TTPa apresentou diferenças significativas entre os momentos pré (D0, 3 e 9) e pós (D16 e 19) tratamento cirúrgico e anticoagulante. Houve diminuição do número de plaquetas nos momentos D16 e D19. Na avaliação com reagente extem ocorreu apenas o prolongamento do CT e CFT entre os momentos D0 e o D3 e D9. O TP não apresentou diferenças significativas. Os resultados obtidos demonstram que a tromboflebite jugular experimental leva a alterações clínicas locais, com comprometimento tecidual e da via extrínseca da coagulação (extem), porém sem evidências de um estado sistêmico de hipercoagulabilidade, pois não houve aumento do ângulo alfa e da firmeza máxima do coágulo (MCF). Além disso, a TEM se mostrou útil e mais sensível que os testes convencionais de coagulação (TP, TTPa e fibrinogênio) para o acompanhamento da terapia anticoagulante, conforme demonstrado em outros trabalhos.(AU)

Arcabouço de PRP-gel associado a células tronco mesenquimais: uso em lesões condrais em modelo experimental equino / PRP-gel scaffold associated with mesenchymal stem cells: use in experimental chondral defect of equine models

O plasma rico em plaquetas (PRP) é conhecido por apresentar propriedades anabólicas, anti-inflamatórias e capacidade de gelificação. Atualmente o PRP é considerado eficaz na reparação da cartilagem, sendo sua capacidade de formação de gel indicada para o preenchimento de defeitos condrais. O objetivo desse estudo foi analisar o uso do PRP ativado, no formato de arcabouço, como suporte para o implante de células tronco mesenquimais (CTM), no preenchimento e tratamento de lesões condrais induzidas em equinos. Doze equinos foram submetidos a uma cirurgia artroscópica no tempo zero do experimento (T0), onde foi induzida uma lesão condral de 15 mm de diâmetro na tróclea medial femoral dos membros pélvicos direito. As 12 articulações foram divididas em dois grupos distintos com seis articulações cada (GA e GB). As articulações do GA foram submetidas ao tratamento com o implante de CTM em gel de PRP. As articulações de GB foram o grupo controle do experimento. As CTMs foram extraídas do tecido adiposo e o PRP em gel foi obtido por protocolo de dupla centrifugação seguido da adição de trombina liofilizada. Após cinco meses (T150) foi realizada nova artroscopia para avaliação macroscópica do local, coleta de amostras do tecido de reparação para análises de microscopia eletrônica, sendo realizadas imagens ressonância magnética e tomografia computadorizada no local do implante no GA. Observamos que o gel de PRP associado às CTM demonstrou ser adequado no tratamento de defeitos condrais experimentais dos equinos. GA evidenciou um melhor aspecto macroscópico e microscópico do tecido de reparação, sendo que GB mostrou maior desorganização das fibras colágenas. Nas imagens de ressonância magnética e tomografia computadorizada apenas foi relevante o local da lesão condral. O arcabouço de gel de PRP demonstrou ser apropriado no suporte do tratamento com as CTMs, sendo de fácil aplicação e efetivo, demonstrando resultados promissores na reparação de lesões condrais induzidas.(AU)

The platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is characterized by its anabolic, anti-inflammatory and gelling capability. Nowadays, the PRP is considered effective in the repair of cartilage defects, and its gelling capability is proper to filling chondral defects. So, the aim of this study was to investigate the use of activated PRP as a fibrin gel scaffold, such as support for the use with mesenchymal stem cells (MSC), on the treatment of experimentally chondral articular defects. Twelve horses were subjected to an arthroscopic surgery at time zero of the experiment (T0). A chondral defect of 15 mm diameter was created on the medial femoral trochlea and these 12 joints were divided into two groups each with six joints in each group (GA and GB). The joints of the GA were treated with implantation of MSC and PRP-gel. GB joints were the control group. MSCs were cultivated from adipose tissue and PRP-gel was obtained by double centrifugation protocol followed by addition of lyophilized thrombin. After five months (T150) was performed new arthroscopy for macroscopic evaluation of the defect local, collect samples of tissue repair for electron microscopy assessment and also was implemented a magnetic resonance images and computed tomography on GA. It was observed that the PRP-gel associated with CTMs showed a suitable treatment of experimental chondral defects in horses. GA showed a better macroscopic and microscopic appearance of the tissue repair. GB showed smaller number of chondrocytes and increased collagen fibers disorganization. At the magnetic resonance and computed tomography imaging only the local of chondral defect was viewed. The PRP-gel scaffold was satisfactory to use and support MSCs implantation. It showed an easy handling and it was effective, showing a promising results in the repair of induced chondral defects.(AU)

Arcabouço de PRP-gel associado a células tronco mesenquimais: uso em lesões condrais em modelo experimental equino / PRP-gel scaffold associated with mesenchymal stem cells: use in experimental chondral defect of equine models

O plasma rico em plaquetas (PRP) é conhecido por apresentar propriedades anabólicas, anti-inflamatórias e capacidade de gelificação. Atualmente o PRP é considerado eficaz na reparação da cartilagem, sendo sua capacidade de formação de gel indicada para o preenchimento de defeitos condrais. O objetivo desse estudo foi analisar o uso do PRP ativado, no formato de arcabouço, como suporte para o implante de células tronco mesenquimais (CTM), no preenchimento e tratamento de lesões condrais induzidas em equinos. Doze equinos foram submetidos a uma cirurgia artroscópica no tempo zero do experimento (T0), onde foi induzida uma lesão condral de 15 mm de diâmetro na tróclea medial femoral dos membros pélvicos direito. As 12 articulações foram divididas em dois grupos distintos com seis articulações cada (GA e GB). As articulações do GA foram submetidas ao tratamento com o implante de CTM em gel de PRP. As articulações de GB foram o grupo controle do experimento. As CTMs foram extraídas do tecido adiposo e o PRP em gel foi obtido por protocolo de dupla centrifugação seguido da adição de trombina liofilizada. Após cinco meses (T150) foi realizada nova artroscopia para avaliação macroscópica do local, coleta de amostras do tecido de reparação para análises de microscopia eletrônica, sendo realizadas imagens ressonância magnética e tomografia computadorizada no local do implante no GA. Observamos que o gel de PRP associado às CTM demonstrou ser adequado no tratamento de defeitos condrais experimentais dos equinos. GA evidenciou um melhor aspecto macroscópico e microscópico do tecido de reparação, sendo que GB mostrou maior desorganização das fibras colágenas. Nas imagens de ressonância magnética e tomografia computadorizada apenas foi relevante o local da lesão condral. O arcabouço de gel de PRP demonstrou ser apropriado no suporte do tratamento com as CTMs, sendo de fácil aplicação e efetivo, demonstrando resultados promissores na reparação de lesões condrais induzidas.(AU)

The platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is characterized by its anabolic, anti-inflammatory and gelling capability. Nowadays, the PRP is considered effective in the repair of cartilage defects, and its gelling capability is proper to filling chondral defects. So, the aim of this study was to investigate the use of activated PRP as a fibrin gel scaffold, such as support for the use with mesenchymal stem cells (MSC), on the treatment of experimentally chondral articular defects. Twelve horses were subjected to an arthroscopic surgery at time zero of the experiment (T0). A chondral defect of 15 mm diameter was created on the medial femoral trochlea and these 12 joints were divided into two groups each with six joints in each group (GA and GB). The joints of the GA were treated with implantation of MSC and PRP-gel. GB joints were the control group. MSCs were cultivated from adipose tissue and PRP-gel was obtained by double centrifugation protocol followed by addition of lyophilized thrombin. After five months (T150) was performed new arthroscopy for macroscopic evaluation of the defect local, collect samples of tissue repair for electron microscopy assessment and also was implemented a magnetic resonance images and computed tomography on GA. It was observed that the PRP-gel associated with CTMs showed a suitable treatment of experimental chondral defects in horses. GA showed a better macroscopic and microscopic appearance of the tissue repair. GB showed smaller number of chondrocytes and increased collagen fibers disorganization. At the magnetic resonance and computed tomography imaging only the local of chondral defect was viewed. The PRP-gel scaffold was satisfactory to use and support MSCs implantation. It showed an easy handling and it was effective, showing a promising results in the repair of induced chondral defects.(AU)

Empiricism and inefficiency in cultural practice of disconnect horses in Northeastern of Brazil: cases study / Empirismo e ineficiência na prática cultural de desgovernar equinos no nordeste brasileiro: estudo de casos

In Northeastern of Brazil is practiced surgical procedure called "disconnect" with the aim of eliminate chronic lameness in horses. The act is carried out for several decades as a regional cultural element incorporated into the population customs and traditionally practiced by laypeople and veterinarians. This paper aims characterize the surgical procedure known as "disconnect", citing their different access and technical efficiency through information obtained through direct survey of performers (veterinarians or lay) and owners of animals that have undergone the procedure. According to the descriptions, the procedure has four surgical approaches, and can be defined as vascular section followed by profuse bleeding, with or without hemostasis ligature, at medial access of the proximal or distal region of the fore and hindlimbs. The information obtained and the anatomical structural analysis indicate that the practice of "disconnect" is characterized by phlebotomy, associated or not with neurectomy, being a questionable, empirical and inefficient procedure in the treatment of lameness. From the cases report developed, the initial character on the subject concludes the absence of therapy evidence in animals undergoing the procedure, counter indicating it in the clinical and surgical routine horses.

Na região nordeste do Brasil pratica-se o procedimento cirúrgico denominado desgovernar com objetivo de eliminar claudicações crônicas em equinos. O ato é realizado há várias décadas como um elemento cultural regional, incorporado aos costumes da população e habitualmente praticado por leigos e médicos veterinários. Este artigo objetiva identificar o ato cirúrgico conhecido como desgovernar, citando seus diferentes acessos e eficiência da técnica, a partir de informações obtidas através de inquérito direto aos executores (médicos veterinários ou leigos) e proprietários de animais que foram submetidos ao procedimento. De acordo com as descrições, o procedimento possui quatro acessos cirúrgicos, na face medial da região proximal ou distal dos membros torácicos e pélvicos, podendo ser definido como secção vascular seguida de hemorragia profusa, com ou sem hemostasia por ligadura. As informações obtidas e a análise estrutural anatômica indicam que a prática de desgovernar é caracterizada por flebotomia seguida ou não de neurectomia, sendo um procedimento questionável, empírico e ineficiente no tratamento das claudicações. A partir do estudo de casos desenvolvido, de caráter inicial sobre a temática, conclui-se a ausência da comprovação terapêutica nos animais submetidos ao procedimento, o contra indicando na rotina clínico-cirúrgica de equinos.

Empiricism and inefficiency in cultural practice of disconnect horses in Northeastern of Brazil: cases study / Empirismo e ineficiência na prática cultural de desgovernar equinos no nordeste brasileiro: estudo de casos

In Northeastern of Brazil is practiced surgical procedure called "disconnect" with the aim of eliminate chronic lameness in horses. The act is carried out for several decades as a regional cultural element incorporated into the population customs and traditionally practiced by laypeople and veterinarians. This paper aims characterize the surgical procedure known as "disconnect", citing their different access and technical efficiency through information obtained through direct survey of performers (veterinarians or lay) and owners of animals that have undergone the procedure. According to the descriptions, the procedure has four surgical approaches, and can be defined as vascular section followed by profuse bleeding, with or without hemostasis ligature, at medial access of the proximal or distal region of the fore and hindlimbs. The information obtained and the anatomical structural analysis indicate that the practice of "disconnect" is characterized by phlebotomy, associated or not with neurectomy, being a questionable, empirical and inefficient procedure in the treatment of lameness. From the cases report developed, the initial character on the subject concludes the absence of therapy evidence in animals undergoing the procedure, counter indicating it in the clinical and surgical routine horses.(AU)

Na região nordeste do Brasil pratica-se o procedimento cirúrgico denominado desgovernar com objetivo de eliminar claudicações crônicas em equinos. O ato é realizado há várias décadas como um elemento cultural regional, incorporado aos costumes da população e habitualmente praticado por leigos e médicos veterinários. Este artigo objetiva identificar o ato cirúrgico conhecido como desgovernar, citando seus diferentes acessos e eficiência da técnica, a partir de informações obtidas através de inquérito direto aos executores (médicos veterinários ou leigos) e proprietários de animais que foram submetidos ao procedimento. De acordo com as descrições, o procedimento possui quatro acessos cirúrgicos, na face medial da região proximal ou distal dos membros torácicos e pélvicos, podendo ser definido como secção vascular seguida de hemorragia profusa, com ou sem hemostasia por ligadura. As informações obtidas e a análise estrutural anatômica indicam que a prática de desgovernar é caracterizada por flebotomia seguida ou não de neurectomia, sendo um procedimento questionável, empírico e ineficiente no tratamento das claudicações. A partir do estudo de casos desenvolvido, de caráter inicial sobre a temática, conclui-se a ausência da comprovação terapêutica nos animais submetidos ao procedimento, o contra indicando na rotina clínico-cirúrgica de equinos.(AU)

Optimisation of a quantitative polymerase chain reaction-based strategy for the detection and quantification of human herpesvirus 6 DNA in patients undergoing allogeneic haematopoietic stem cell transplantation.

Human herpesvirus 6 (HHV-6) may cause severe complications after haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). Monitoring this virus and providing precise, rapid and early diagnosis of related clinical diseases, constitute essential measures to improve outcomes. A prospective survey on the incidence and clinical features of HHV-6 infections after HSCT has not yet been conducted in Brazilian patients and the impact of this infection on HSCT outcome remains unclear. A rapid test based on real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) has been optimised to screen and quantify clinical samples for HHV-6. The detection step was based on reaction with TaqMan® hydrolysis probes. A set of previously described primers and probes have been tested to evaluate efficiency, sensitivity and reproducibility. The target efficiency range was 91.4% with linearity ranging from 10-106 copies/reaction and a limit of detection of five copies/reaction or 250 copies/mL of plasma. The qPCR assay developed in the present study was simple, rapid and sensitive, allowing the detection of a wide range of HHV-6 loads. In conclusion, this test may be useful as a practical tool to help elucidate the clinical relevance of HHV-6 infection and reactivation in different scenarios and to determine the need for surveillance.

Optimisation of a quantitative polymerase chain reaction-based strategy for the detection and quantification of human herpesvirus 6 DNA in patients undergoing allogeneic haematopoietic stem cell transplantation

Human herpesvirus 6 (HHV-6) may cause severe complications after haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). Monitoring this virus and providing precise, rapid and early diagnosis of related clinical diseases, constitute essential measures to improve outcomes. A prospective survey on the incidence and clinical features of HHV-6 infections after HSCT has not yet been conducted in Brazilian patients and the impact of this infection on HSCT outcome remains unclear. A rapid test based on real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) has been optimised to screen and quantify clinical samples for HHV-6. The detection step was based on reaction with TaqMan® hydrolysis probes. A set of previously described primers and probes have been tested to evaluate efficiency, sensitivity and reproducibility. The target efficiency range was 91.4% with linearity ranging from 10-106 copies/reaction and a limit of detection of five copies/reaction or 250 copies/mL of plasma. The qPCR assay developed in the present study was simple, rapid and sensitive, allowing the detection of a wide range of HHV-6 loads. In conclusion, this test may be useful as a practical tool to help elucidate the clinical relevance of HHV-6 infection and reactivation in different scenarios and to determine the need for surveillance.

Cardiovascular effects of a continuous rate infusion of lidocaine in calves anesthetized with xylazine, midazolam, ketamine and isoflurane.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the cardiovascular changes of a continuous rate infusion of lidocaine in calves anesthetized with xylazine, midazolam, ketamine and isoflurane during mechanical ventilation. STUDY DESIGN: Prospective, randomized, cross-over, experimental trial. ANIMALS: A total of eight, healthy, male Holstein calves, aged 10 ± 1 months and weighing 114 ± 11 kg were included in the study. METHODS: Calves were administered xylazine followed by ketamine and midazolam, orotracheal intubation and maintenance on isoflurane (1.3%) using mechanical ventilation. Forty minutes after induction, lidocaine (2 mg kg⁻¹ bolus) or an equivalent volume of saline (0.9%) was administered IV followed by a continuous rate infusion (100 µg kg⁻¹ minute⁻¹) of lidocaine (treatment L) or saline (treatment C). Heart rate (HR), systolic, diastolic and mean arterial pressures (SAP, DAP and MAP), central venous pressure (CVP), mean pulmonary arterial pressure (mPAP), pulmonary arterial occlusion pressure (PAOP), cardiac output, end-tidal carbon dioxide (Pe'CO2 ) and core temperature (CT) were recorded before lidocaine or saline administration (Baseline) and at 20-minute intervals (T20-T80). Plasma concentrations of lidocaine were measured in treatment L. RESULTS: The HR was significantly lower in treatment L compared with treatment C. There was no difference between the treatments with regards to SAP, DAP, MAP and SVRI. CI was significantly lower at T60 in treatment L when compared with treatment C. PAOP and CVP increased significantly at all times compared with Baseline in treatment L. There was no significant difference between times within each treatment and between treatments with regards to other measured variables. Plasma concentrations of lidocaine ranged from 1.85 to 2.06 µg mL⁻¹ during the CRI. CONCLUSION AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: At the studied rate, lidocaine causes a decrease in heart rate which is unlikely to be of clinical significance in healthy animals, but could be a concern in compromised animals.

Avaliação das características do líquido ruminal, hemogasometria, atividade pedométrica e diagnóstico de laminite subclínica em vacas leiteiras / Evaluation of the characteristics of ruminal fluid, hemogasometry, pedometer activity and subclinical laminitis diagnosis in dairy cows

Este estudo objetivou avaliar as características do líquido ruminal, hemogasometria, atividade pedométrica e ocorrência laminite subclínica, por meio da presença de enfermidades podais secundárias, em vacas leiteiras de alta produção, provenientes de um rebanho comercial. Foram avaliadas 200 vacas holandesas, oriundas da mesma propriedade, localizada na região de Araçatuba, SP, divididas em quatro grupos, sendo estes estabelecidos a partir da produtividade diária. Inicialmente procedeu-se o exame clínico dos animais, seguido da colheita de amostras do líquido ruminal, por meio de sondagem esofágica, sendo este avaliado quanto ao pH, cor, odor, consistência, sedimentação, flutuação e prova de redução pelo azul de metileno. Também foram colhidas amostras de sangue venoso para hemogasometria, além da coleta dos dados da pedometria (número de passos) e produção de leite diária das vacas. Os dados obtidos foram tabulados e submetidos à análise de correlação. Nenhum animal avaliado apresentou alterações no pH ruminal, bem como não foram encontrados distúrbios do desequilíbrio ácido básico, pois os valores de pH sanguíneo, PCO2, TCO2, HCO3- e EB estavam dentro da normalidade, durante a análise hemogasométrica. A pedometria foi efetiva como método de triagem para as vacas acometidas de afecções podais, pois se observou a redução no número de passos devido à dor, correlacionada a menor produção leiteira. Contudo, a identificação destas afecções, somente foi possível mediante exame clínico específico dos dígitos. A ocorrência das afecções podais em 49,5% do rebanho deveu-se aos fatores de riscos presentes na propriedade, como o concreto abrasivo e instalações inadequadas, associados também a possível ocorrência de acidose ruminal subaguda, não diagnosticada pela metodologia utilizada. A correlação entre os valores do pH ruminal, pedometria e hemogasometria se mostrou eficiente para o diagnóstico precoce das afecções podais e também no estabelecimento da etiologia destas enfermidades. A laminite subclínica acometeu primariamente as vacas do rebanho, considerando a etiologia multifatorial desta afecção, ocorrência e distribuição das enfermidades podais diagnosticadas.(AU)

The objectives of this study were to evaluate the characteristics of ruminal fluid, blood gas analysis, pedometer activity and suclinical laminitis occurrence, through the presence of secondary foot diseases in high production dairy cows, from a commercial herd. 200 Holstein cows originating from the same farm, located in Araçatuba/SP, Brazil, were divided into four groups, which are established from the daily milk production. Initially clinical examination of the cows was procedure, followed by sampling of rumen fluid, by esophageal tube. Fluid was evaluated for pH, color, odor, consistency, sedimentation, flotation and methylene blue reduction test. Venous blood samples were also collected for blood gas analysis, in addition to collecting data from pedometrics (number of steps) and daily milk production. Data were tabulated and submitted to correlation analysis. No animal had reported changes in rumen pH. Non-acid base imbalance were found, since the values of blood pH, PCO2, TCO2, HCO3- and BE were normal during hemogasimetric analysis. The pedometric was effective as a screening method to cows with foot diseases. It demonstrated reduction in the number of steps due to pain, correlated with lower milk production. However, the identification of foot lesions was only possible through specific digital clinical examination. The occurrence of 49.5 % of herd foot problems was due to the risk factors present in the farm. The abrasive concrete and inadequate facilities, also associated with the possible occurrence of sub-acute ruminal acidosis, were observed as risk factors. However, sub-acute ruminal acidosis was undiagnosed by the methods used. The correlation between the values of ruminal pH, and blood gas analysis pedometrics showed efficient for the early diagnosis of foot diseases and also in establishing the etiology of these diseases. Subclinical laminitis occurred primarily in cow's herd, considering the multifactorial etiology of this disease, occurrence and distribution of foot diseases diagnosed.(AU)