PESQUISA VETERINÁRIA BRASILEIRA

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Silva N.S., Silveira J.A.S., Pinheiro C.P., Sousa M.G.S., Oliveira C.M.C., Mendonça C.L., Duarte M.D & Barbosa J.D. 2010. [Etiology and antimicrobial susceptibilities of bacteria isolated from sheep with mastitis in northeastern Pará, Brazil.] Etiologia e perfil de sensibilidade de bactérias isoladas de ovelhas com mastite na região nordeste do estado do Pará. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 30(12):1043-1048. Central de Diagnóstico Veterinário, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Campus Castanhal, Universidade Federal do Pará, Rua Maximino Porpino da Silva 1000, Castanhal, PA 68740-080, Brazil. E-mail: nataliasilva@ufpa.br The objective of this paper was to study the etiology of mastitis in sheep at northeastern Pará, and to establish the sensitivity of isolated bacteria to antibiotics. A total of 176 Santa Inês nursing sheep kept in semi-intensive system from seven properties were examined. The mammary gland was clinically examined and the milk was submitted to the Caneca Telada Test, the California Mastitis Test (CMT), bacteriological examinations and antibiograms. Out of the 352 mammary halves (176 sheep), 5.9% (21/352) had clinical mastitis and by the CMT test, 7.39% (26/352) had subclinical mastitis and 86.64% (305/352) mammary halves did not have mastitis. Most of the animals with mastitis were in the second third of the lactation period, had less kids and more lactation periods. The following bacteria were isolated from the clinical mastitis Staphylococcus spp. coagulase negative (42,9%); Staphylococcus aureus (9.52%); Streptococcus spp. (4.76%) and Escherichia coli (4.76%). Were observed associations of Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus spp. (4,76%); Staphylococcus spp. coagulase negative nonhemolytic, Staphylococcus spp. coagulase negative hemolytic and Staphylococcus spp. coagulase negative non hemolytic pigment (4.76%). Already in subclinical mastitis the bacteria isolated were Staphylococcus spp. coagulase negative (26.9%); Staphylococcus aureus (15.,4%); Streptococcus spp. (7.69%); Escherichia coli (7.69%) and Citrobacter freundii (11.5%). Were observed associations of Staphylococcus spp. coagulase negative nonhemolytic and Staphylococcus spp. coagulase negative hemolytic (3.85%). The most efficient antibiotics for the Gram positive agents were penicile/novobiocine (100%), cefalotine (100%) and florfenicol (100%) and for the Citrobacter freundii were ampicilina (100%) and florfenicol (100%). In relation to Escherichia coli, 66.7% of isolates to ampicillin, cephalothin, florfenicol and tetracycline were resistant. Mastitis is present in sheep in the State of Pará, and it’s necessary to estimate, in future studies, the economic losses caused by this disease. The CMT show satisfactory results and can be recommended as a screening test for diagnosing individual cases of subclinical mastitis in sheep, once had a good relationship with the microbiological examination. In the antibiogram where most of the isolated agents appear sensitive to different antibiotics tested, the antibiotics with the best efficiency were florfenicol and cefoxitin.

• Mastitis mastite

Abstract in Portuguese:

RESUMO.- Silva N.S., Silveira J.A.S., Pinheiro C.P., Sousa M.G.S., Oliveira C.M.C., Mendonça C.L., Duarte M.D & Barbosa J.D. 2010. [Etiology and antimicrobial susceptibilities of bacteria isolated from sheep with mastitis in northeastern Pará, Brazil.] Etiologia e perfil de sensibilidade de bactérias isoladas de ovelhas com mastite na região nordeste do estado do Pará. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 30(12):1043-1048. Central de Diagnóstico Veterinário, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, Campus Castanhal, Universidade Federal do Pará, Rua Maximino Porpino da Silva 1000, Castanhal, PA 68740-080, Brazil. E-mail: nataliasilva@ufpa.br Objetivou-se com este trabalho estudar a etiologia da mastite em ovelhas na região nordeste do Pará, além de estabelecer o perfil de sensibilidade das bactérias isoladas frente a antimicrobianos. Foram examinadas 176 ovelhas da raça Santa Inês, em lactação, mantidas em sistema semi-intensivo, pertencentes a sete propriedades especializadas na criação de ovinos. Foi realizado o exame clínico da glândula mamária, o exame macroscópico da secreção láctea por meio do Teste da Caneca Telada, o California Mastitis Test (CMT), o exame microbiológico do leite e o antibiograma. Das 352 metades mamárias estudadas (176 ovelhas), 21 (5,97%) apresentaram mastite clínica, 26 (7,39%) apresentaram mastite subclínica e 305 (86,64%) metades mamárias foram negativas. A maioria dos animais acometidos pela mastite estava no terço médio da lactação, com menor número de crias e maior número de lactações. Na mastite clínica (MC) as bactérias isoladas foram Staphylococcus spp. coagulase negativo (42,9%); Staphylococcus aureus (9,52%); Streptococcus spp. (4,76%) e Escherichia coli (4,76%). As associações observadas foram Staphylococcus aureus e Streptococcus spp. (4,76%); Staphylococcus spp. coagulase negativo não hemolítica, Staphylococcus spp. coagulase negativo hemolítica e Staphylococcus spp. coagulase negativo pigmento não hemolítica (4,76%). Já na mastite subclínica (MSC), as bactérias isoladas foram Staphylococcus spp. coagulase negativo (26,9%); Staphylococcus aureus (15,4%); Streptococcus spp. (7,69%); Escherichia coli (7,69%) e Citrobacter freundii (11,5%). A associação observada foi Staphylococcus spp. coagulase negativo não hemolítica e Staphylococcus spp. coagulase negativo hemolítica (3,85%). Os antimicrobianos com maior eficácia contra os agentes isolados Gram positivos foram penicilina/novobiocina (100%), cefalotina (100%) e florfenicol (100%) e contra o Citrobacter freundii foram a ampicilina (100%) e florfenicol (100%). Já em relação a Escherichia coli, 66,7% dos isolados mostraram-se resistentes à ampicilina, cefalotina, florfenicol e tetraciclina. A mastite está presente em ovelhas no estado do Pará, havendo a necessidade de estimar, em estudos futuros, as perdas econômicas causadas por essa enfermidade. O CMT apresentou resultados satisfatórios, podendo ser recomendado como teste de triagem para o diagnóstico de casos individuais de mastite subclínica em ovinos, uma vez que apresentou boa relação com o exame microbiológico. No antibiograma foi observado que a maioria dos agentes isolados apresenta-se sensível aos diferentes antimicrobianos testados, sendo os antibióticos com melhor eficiência o florfenicol e a cefoxitina.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Dantas A.F.M., Riet-Correa F., Medeiros R.M.T., Galiza G.J.N., Pimentel L.A., Anjos B.L. & Mota R.A. 2010. [Congenital malformations in ruminants in the semiarid of the Brazilian Northeast.] Malformações congênitas em ruminantes no semiárido do Nordeste Brasileiro. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 30(10):807-815. Hospital Veterinário, Laboratório de Patologia Animal, Centro de Saúde e Tecnologia Rural, Universidade Federal de Campina Grande, Campus de Patos, Avenida Universitária s/n, Bairro Santa Cecília, Patos, PB 58708-110, Brazil. E-mail: dantas.af@uol.com.br Congenital malformations caused by the ingestion of Mimosa tenuiflora have been reported in ruminants in the semiarid of the Brazilian Northeast. This paper reports malformations diagnosed in ruminants, from 2000 to 2008, by the Veterinary Pathology Laboratory of the Federal University of Campina Grande, Patos, PB, in municipalities of the states of Paraíba, Pernambuco and Rio Grande do Norte. During the period, 47 (3.48%) out of 1.347 ascensions were reported as malformations. Based in the type of malformation and in the origin of the animals, malformations were divided in: 1) caused by the ingestion of M. tenuiflora, and 2) sporadic malformations of unknown causes. In sheep, 21 out of 418 ascensions were malformations, being 18 (4.3%) of malformations caused by M. tenuiflora and 3 (0.71%) of sporadic malformations. In cattle, 14 out of 434 ascensions were malformations, from these 8 (1.84%) were caused by M. tenuiflora and 6 (1.38%) were sporadic malformations. In goats, 12 out of 495 ascensions were malformations, being 9 (1.81%) malformations related with the ingestion of M. tenuiflora and 3 (0.6%) sporadic malformations. More frequent malformations caused by M. tenuiflora were arthrogryposis, micrognatia, palatoschisis, microphtalmia and unilateral or bilateral hypoplasia or aplasia of the incisive bones. Sporadic malformations were acephaly and hermaphrodite, dicephaly and malformations of mesenteric vessel in sheep; atresia ani in three goats; and hydranencephaly, atresia ani, ribs malformation with eventracion, cerebellar hypoplasia with hydrocephalus, pulmonary choristoma and meningocele, and siamese twins in cattle. A case of cerebellar hypoplasia with hydrocephalus was negative on immunohistochemistry to bovine viral diarrhea virus. Malformations caused by M. tenuiflora occurred during the whole year. The highest frequency in sheep seems to be associated with the consumption of the plant by ewes after first rains, in the first two months of gestation, when they are supplemented with concentrates, and M. tenuiflora is the main green forage available. Malformations occur mainly in degraded areas of native forest (caatinga) invaded by M. tenuiflora, with lesser variety of other species.

• Congenital defects teratogenic plants poisonous plants Mimosa tenuiflora plant poisoning anomalias congênitas plantas teratogênicas plantas tóxicas intoxicação por planta

Abstract in Portuguese:

RESUMO.- Dantas A.F.M., Riet-Correa F., Medeiros R.M.T., Galiza G.J.N., Pimentel L.A., Anjos B.L. & Mota R.A. 2010. [Congenital malformations in ruminants in the semiarid of the Brazilian Northeast.] Malformações congênitas em ruminantes no semiárido do Nordeste Brasileiro. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 30(10):807-815. Hospital Veterinário, Laboratório de Patologia Animal, Centro de Saúde e Tecnologia Rural, Universidade Federal de Campina Grande, Campus de Patos, Avenida Universitária s/n, Bairro Santa Cecília, Patos, PB 58708-110, Brazil. E-mail: dantas.af@uol.com.br Malformações congênitas causadas pela ingestão de Mimosa tenuiflora têm sido observadas em ruminantes no semiárido do Nordeste Brasileiro. Neste trabalho foram estudadas as malformações congênitas em ruminantes diagnosticadas entre 2000 e 2008, em municípios da Paraíba, Pernambuco e Rio Grande do Norte. Durante o período foram recebidos 1.347 materiais de ruminantes para diagnóstico, desses 47 (3,48%) foram dignosticados como malformações congênitas. Com base no tipo de malformação e na procedência do animal as malformações foram divididas em: 1) causadas pelo consumo de M. tenuiflora; e 2) malformações esporádicas, sem causa conhecida. De 418 materiais de ovinos, 21 corresponderam a malformações, sendo 18 (4,3% do total de materiais) de malformações causadas por M. tenuiflora e 3 (0,71%) de malformações esporádicas. De 434 materiais de bovinos, 14 foram diagnosticados como malformações, sendo 8 (1,84%) causadas por M. tenuiflora e 6 (1,38%) malformações esporádicas. De 495 materiais de caprinos, 12 apresentaram malformações, sendo 9 (1,81%) causadas pela ingestão de M. tenuiflora e 3 (0,6%) malformações esporádicas. As principais malformações causadas por M. tenuiflora foram artrogripose, micrognatia, palatosquise, microftalmia e hipoplasia ou aplasia unilateral ou bilateral dos ossos incisivos. As malformações esporádicas incluiram: acefalia e hermafroditismo, dicefalia e malformações de vasos intestinais em ovinos; atresia anal em três caprinos; e hidranencefalia, atresia anal, malformações de costelas com eventração, hipoplasia cerebelar e hidrocefalia, coristoma pulmonar e meningocele, e gêmeos siameses em bovinos. O caso de hipoplasia cerebelar com hidrocefalia foi negativo pela imuno-histoquímica para o vírus da diarreia viral bovina. Malformações congênitas causadas por M. tenuiflora ocorreram durante todo o ano. A maior frequência em ovinos está aparentemente associada ao consumo da planta, na primeira fase da gestação, após as primeiras chuvas, quando as ovelhas estão sendo suplementadas e a planta é o principal volumoso disponível. As malformações ocorrem principalmente nas áreas mais degradadas, onde existe maior disponibilidade da planta e menor variedade de plantas da caatinga.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Oliveira F.C.S., Azevedo S.S., Pinheiro S.R., Batista C.S.A., Moraes Z.M, Souza G.O., Gonçales A.P. & Vasconcellos S.A. 2010. [Risk factors associated with leptospirosis in cows in the state of Bahia, northeastern Brazil.] Fatores de risco para a leptospirose em fêmeas bovinas em idade reprodutiva no Estado da Bahia, Nordeste do Brasil. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 30(5):398-402. Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva e Saúde Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, Avenida Prof. Dr. Orlando Marques de Paiva 87, São Paulo, SP 05508-270, Brazil. E-mail: savasco@usp.br Risk factors associated with leptospirosis were identified in cows in the state of Bahia, northeastern Brazil. A total of 10,823 cows with > 24 months of age from 1,414 herds were randomly sampled. For the serological diagnosis of Leptospira spp. infection, the microscopic agglutination test (MAT) was carried out using 24 serovars as antigens. A herd was considered positive when presented at least one seropositive animal. Of the 1,414 investigated herds, 1,076 (77.9%; 95% CI = 75.7-80.0%) presented at least one reactant animal at MAT to any serovar. Serovar Hardjo (Hardjoprajitno) was the most prevalent, with 34.49% (95% CI = 31.97-37.14%) of the positive herds. Presence of more than 28 bovine females in reproductive age (OR=2.11; p<0.001), presence of cervids (OR=2.02; p=0.010), animal purchase (OR=1.57; p<0.001), to slaughter animals in the property (OR=1.58; p=0.030) and to share pasture (OR=1.63; p<0.001) were identified as risk factors for leptospirosis due to any serovar. Risk factors for leptospirosis due to serovar Hardjo (Hardjoprajitno) were presence of swine (OR=1.28; p=0.040) and animal purchase (OR=1.48; p<0.001).

• Leptospirosis leptospirose

Abstract in Portuguese:

RESUMO.- Oliveira F.C.S., Azevedo S.S., Pinheiro S.R., Batista C.S.A., Moraes Z.M, Souza G.O., Gonçales A.P. & Vasconcellos S.A. 2010. [Risk factors associated with leptospirosis in cows in the state of Bahia, northeastern Brazil.] Fatores de risco para a leptospirose em fêmeas bovinas em idade reprodutiva no Estado da Bahia, Nordeste do Brasil. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 30(5):398-402. Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva e Saúde Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, Avenida Prof. Dr. Orlando Marques de Paiva 87, São Paulo, SP 05508-270, Brazil. E-mail: savasco@usp.br Foram identificados fatores de risco associados à leptospirose em fêmeas bovinas em idade reprodutiva no Estado da Bahia. Foram amostradas aleatoriamente 10.823 fêmeas bovinas com idade igual ou superior a 24 meses procedentes de 1.414 propriedades. Para o diagnóstico sorológico da infecção por Leptospira spp., foi utilizada a Soroaglutinação Microscópica (SAM) utilizando 24 sorovares como antígenos. Um rebanho foi considerado foco quando apresentou pelo menos um animal soropositivo. Das 1.414 propriedades investigadas, 1.076 (77,9%; IC 95% = 75,7-80,0%) apresentaram pelo menos um animal reagente na SAM para qualquer sorovar. O sorovar Hardjo (Hardjoprajitno) foi o mais prevalente, com 34,49% (IC 95% = 31,97-37,14%) das propriedades positivas. Presença de mais de 28 fêmeas bovinas em idade reprodutiva no rebanho (OR=2,11; p<0,001), presença de cervídeos (OR=2,02; p=0,010), compra de animais (OR=1,57; p<0,001), abate de animais na própria fazenda (OR=1,58; p=0,030) e utilização de partos compartilhados (OR=1,63; p<0,001) foram identificados como fatores de risco para leptospirose por qualquer sorovar. Os fatores de risco para leptospirose pelo sorovar Hardjo (Hardjoprajitno) foram a presença de suínos (OR=1,28; p=0, 040) e a compra de animais (OR=1,48; p<0,001).

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Silva K.P.C., Mota R.A., Cunha A.P., Silva L.B.G., Leal N.C., Cavalcante Y.V.N., Teles J.A.A., Pereira M.C.C. & Freitas N.S. 2009. [Phenotypic and molecular characterization of Burkholderia mallei isolated in northeastern Brazil.] Caracterização fenotípica e molecular de amostras de Burkholderia mallei isoladas na Região Nordeste do Brasil. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(5):439-444. Departamento de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal Rural de Pernambuco, Dois Irmãos, Recife, PE 52171-900, Brazil. E-mail: rinaldo.mota@hotmail.com The objective of this paper was to study the molecular performance and phenotypic characterization of Burkholderia mallei isolated from horses with clinical and serological diagnosis of glanders, originating from the Metropolitan District of Recife and Zona da Mata of Pernambuco and Alagoas. The isolation and biochemical identification of B. mallei was carried out by microbiological and molecular techniques of PCR-fingerprinting and RAPD-PCR. From the eight samples studied, four showed little phenotype variations. In the molecular tests, the samples formed 4 groups of different ribotype profiles and 4 genotype profiles. There was some association of PCR-fingerprinting with RAPD-PCR results. It was concluded that the slight biochemical variations were not associated with different molecular profiles. They also indicated that these differences show heterogeneity associated with the origin of the sample, indicating that the infection was caused by clones of different strains and that the polymorphism of DNA observed could make it

• Burkholderia mallei glanders mormo doenças de eqüdeos

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Silva K.P.C., Mota R.A., Cunha A.P., Silva L.B.G., Leal N.C., Cavalcante Y.V.N., Teles J.A.A., Pereira M.C.C. & Freitas N.S. 2009. [Phenotypic and molecular characterization of Burkholderia mallei isolated in northeastern Brazil.] Caracterização fenotípica e molecular de amostras de Burkholderia mallei isoladas na Região Nordeste do Brasil. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(5):439-444. Departamento de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal Rural de Pernambuco, Dois Irmãos, Recife, PE 52171-900, Brazil. E-mail: rinaldo.mota@hotmail.com The objective of this paper was to study the molecular performance and phenotypic characterization of Burkholderia mallei isolated from horses with clinical and serological diagnosis of glanders, originating from the Metropolitan District of Recife and Zona da Mata of Pernambuco and Alagoas. The isolation and biochemical identification of B. mallei was carried out by microbiological and molecular techniques of PCR-fingerprinting and RAPD-PCR. From the eight samples studied, four showed little phenotype variations. In the molecular tests, the samples formed 4 groups of different ribotype profiles and 4 genotype profiles. There was some association of PCR-fingerprinting with RAPD-PCR results. It was concluded that the slight biochemical variations were not associated with different molecular profiles. They also indicated that these differences show heterogeneity associated with the origin of the sample, indicating that the infection was caused by clones of different strains and that the polymorphism of DNA observed could make it

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Batista M.C.S, Castro R.S., Rego E.W., Carvalho A.A., Silva S.M.S., Carvalho C.D.D. & Riet-Correa F. 2009. [Hematology and blood biochemistry in sheep with conidiobolomycosis in northeastern Brazil.] Hemograma, proteinograma, ionograma e dosagens bioquímicas e enzimáticas de ovinos acometidos de conidiobolomicose no Nordeste do Brasil. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(1):17-24 Departamento de Morfofisiologia Veterinária da Universidade Federal do Piauí, Campus Universitário Ministro Petrônio Portella, s/n, Bairro Ininga, Teresina, PI 64049-450, Brazil. Email: cbatista@ufpi.br Hematologic values, serum levels of albumin, globulins, total proteins, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, chloride, urea nitrogen, creatinine, total, direct and indirect bilirrubin, and serum activities of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkalin phosphatase (AF) and gama-glutamyltransferase (GGT) were determined in 56 hair sheep with conidiobolomycosis and 371 healthy hair sheep from the same flocks. Sheep with conidiobolomycosis had nonregenerative, normocytic and normochromic anemia, leucocytosis with neutrophilia and increased nutrophil:lymphocyte rate, moderate monocytosis, moderate thrombocytosis, hypoproteinemia (hypoglobulinemia), hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia and increased values of phosphorus. Serum activities of AST and GGT were increased and serum activity of FA decreased. Serum values of urea and creatinine were within normal values. Hypoglycemia and hyperbilirrubinemia were also observed. These results can be used for experimental studies with the disease, for treatments trials, and to detect early cases of the disease without clinical signs. Otherwise the hematologic and blood biochemistry values of healthy sheep can be used as reference values for hair sheep in the semi-arid region of Brazil.

• Serum biochemistry hematology liver function renal function conidiobolomycosis healthy hair sheep

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Batista M.C.S, Castro R.S., Rego E.W., Carvalho A.A., Silva S.M.S., Carvalho C.D.D. & Riet-Correa F. 2009. [Hematology and blood biochemistry in sheep with conidiobolomycosis in northeastern Brazil.] Hemograma, proteinograma, ionograma e dosagens bioquímicas e enzimáticas de ovinos acometidos de conidiobolomicose no Nordeste do Brasil. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(1):17-24 Departamento de Morfofisiologia Veterinária da Universidade Federal do Piauí, Campus Universitário Ministro Petrônio Portella, s/n, Bairro Ininga, Teresina, PI 64049-450, Brazil. Email: cbatista@ufpi.br Hematologic values, serum levels of albumin, globulins, total proteins, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, chloride, urea nitrogen, creatinine, total, direct and indirect bilirrubin, and serum activities of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkalin phosphatase (AF) and gama-glutamyltransferase (GGT) were determined in 56 hair sheep with conidiobolomycosis and 371 healthy hair sheep from the same flocks. Sheep with conidiobolomycosis had nonregenerative, normocytic and normochromic anemia, leucocytosis with neutrophilia and increased nutrophil:lymphocyte rate, moderate monocytosis, moderate thrombocytosis, hypoproteinemia (hypoglobulinemia), hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia and increased values of phosphorus. Serum activities of AST and GGT were increased and serum activity of FA decreased. Serum values of urea and creatinine were within normal values. Hypoglycemia and hyperbilirrubinemia were also observed. These results can be used for experimental studies with the disease, for treatments trials, and to detect early cases of the disease without clinical signs. Otherwise the hematologic and blood biochemistry values of healthy sheep can be used as reference values for hair sheep in the semi-arid region of Brazil.

Abstract in English:

Lima E.F., Riet-Correa F., Castro R.S., Gomes A.A.B. & Lima F.S. 2005. [Clinical signs, distribution of the lesions in the central nervous system and epidemiology of rabies in northeastern Brazil.] Sinais clínicos, distribuição das lesões no sistema nervoso e epidemiologia da raiva em herbívoros na região Nordeste do Brasil. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 25(4):250-264. Centro de Saúde e Tecnologia Rural, Campus de Patos, Universidade Federal de Campina Grande, Patos, PB 58700-000, Brazil. E-mail: riet@cstr.ufcg.br Twenty four outbreaks of rabies in cattle, 4 in horses, 2 in sheep, and 2 in goats are reported in northeastern Brazil. All outbreaks occurred in the state of Paraíba, except one in horses that occurred in the state of Rio Grande do Norte. All outbreaks, except one in sheep, were probably transmitted by vampire-bats, but the transmission by foxes (Dusicyon vetulus) is also possible. Clinical signs were characteristic for distribution of the lesions in the central nervous system (CNS). In cattle, signs were mainly of the paralytic form of rabies, caused by lesions on the spinal cord, brain stem and cerebellum; but some animals showed also depression, excitation and other signs due to cerebral lesions. In 3 out of 5 horses, the main clinical signs were due to lesions in the cerebrum, and 2 had the paralytic form. From 4 sheep and 2 goats affected, 4 showed clinical signs of the paralytic form; but in 1 goat and 1 sheep the main clinical signs were caused by cerebral lesions. All affected animals, except 1 goat, had a clinical manifestation period of 2-8 days. The only gross lesions were distention of the urinary bladder in 4 cattle and distention of the rectum in 2 others. Two horses had skin lesions due to traumatic injury. Histologic lesions were diffuse non-suppurative encephalomyelitis and meningitis. In the horses, and in one goat with a clinical manifestation period of 35 days, the lesions were more severe, with neuronal necrosis, neuronophagia, and presence of axonal spheroids. Negri bodies were found in 87% (20/23) of the cattle cases examined histologically. In small ruminants Negri bodies were found in 83% (5/6) of the cases. In sheep, goats and cattle, Negri bodies were more frequent in the cerebellum, but they were found also in brain stem, spinal cord and cerebrum. In horses, Negri bodies were found in small amounts only in the cortex of one animal, and in the cortex and hippocampus of another. Histologic lesions and Negri bodies in the trigeminal ganglia were less frequent than in the CNS. These results show that in rabies of herbivores, clinical signs and distribution of lesions in the CNS are variable, so that for the diagnosis and adequate clinical evaluation and the histologic study of different areas of the CNS are necessary. This also suggests that when the fluorescent antibody test and mouse inoculation test are negative, they should be repeated with samples from different areas of the brain and spinal cord. Frequency data of diseases from 4 diagnostic laboratories were used to estimate cattle deaths due to rabies in 3 Brazilian states. In Paraíba, with a population of 918,262 cattle, the annual death rate is estimated in 8,609 heads. In Mato Grosso do Sul, with a population of 23 millions cattle, deaths caused by rabies are estimated in 149,500 heads, and in Rio Grande do Sul, with a cattle population of 13 millions, cattle deaths due to rabies are estimated in 13,000 to 16,250 heads. If these data are used to estimate cattle losses in Brazil, with a cattle population of 195 millions, it can be estimated that 842,688 deaths are caused annually by rabies.

• Rabies cattle sheep goats horses pathology clinical signs economical impact.

Abstract in Portuguese:

Lima E.F., Riet-Correa F., Castro R.S., Gomes A.A.B. & Lima F.S. 2005. [Clinical signs, distribution of the lesions in the central nervous system and epidemiology of rabies in northeastern Brazil.] Sinais clínicos, distribuição das lesões no sistema nervoso e epidemiologia da raiva em herbívoros na região Nordeste do Brasil. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 25(4):250-264. Centro de Saúde e Tecnologia Rural, Campus de Patos, Universidade Federal de Campina Grande, Patos, PB 58700-000, Brazil. E-mail: riet@cstr.ufcg.br Twenty four outbreaks of rabies in cattle, 4 in horses, 2 in sheep, and 2 in goats are reported in northeastern Brazil. All outbreaks occurred in the state of Paraíba, except one in horses that occurred in the state of Rio Grande do Norte. All outbreaks, except one in sheep, were probably transmitted by vampire-bats, but the transmission by foxes (Dusicyon vetulus) is also possible. Clinical signs were characteristic for distribution of the lesions in the central nervous system (CNS). In cattle, signs were mainly of the paralytic form of rabies, caused by lesions on the spinal cord, brain stem and cerebellum; but some animals showed also depression, excitation and other signs due to cerebral lesions. In 3 out of 5 horses, the main clinical signs were due to lesions in the cerebrum, and 2 had the paralytic form. From 4 sheep and 2 goats affected, 4 showed clinical signs of the paralytic form; but in 1 goat and 1 sheep the main clinical signs were caused by cerebral lesions. All affected animals, except 1 goat, had a clinical manifestation period of 2-8 days. The only gross lesions were distention of the urinary bladder in 4 cattle and distention of the rectum in 2 others. Two horses had skin lesions due to traumatic injury. Histologic lesions were diffuse non-suppurative encephalomyelitis and meningitis. In the horses, and in one goat with a clinical manifestation period of 35 days, the lesions were more severe, with neuronal necrosis, neuronophagia, and presence of axonal spheroids. Negri bodies were found in 87% (20/23) of the cattle cases examined histologically. In small ruminants Negri bodies were found in 83% (5/6) of the cases. In sheep, goats and cattle, Negri bodies were more frequent in the cerebellum, but they were found also in brain stem, spinal cord and cerebrum. In horses, Negri bodies were found in small amounts only in the cortex of one animal, and in the cortex and hippocampus of another. Histologic lesions and Negri bodies in the trigeminal ganglia were less frequent than in the CNS. These results show that in rabies of herbivores, clinical signs and distribution of lesions in the CNS are variable, so that for the diagnosis and adequate clinical evaluation and the histologic study of different areas of the CNS are necessary. This also suggests that when the fluorescent antibody test and mouse inoculation test are negative, they should be repeated with samples from different areas of the brain and spinal cord. Frequency data of diseases from 4 diagnostic laboratories were used to estimate cattle deaths due to rabies in 3 Brazilian states. In Paraíba, with a population of 918,262 cattle, the annual death rate is estimated in 8,609 heads. In Mato Grosso do Sul, with a population of 23 millions cattle, deaths caused by rabies are estimated in 149,500 heads, and in Rio Grande do Sul, with a cattle population of 13 millions, cattle deaths due to rabies are estimated in 13,000 to 16,250 heads. If these data are used to estimate cattle losses in Brazil, with a cattle population of 195 millions, it can be estimated that 842,688 deaths are caused annually by rabies.

Abstract in English:

Lima E.F., Riet-Correa F., Tabosa I.M., Dantas A.F.M., Medeiros J.M. & Sucupira Júnior G. 2005. [Polioencephalomalacia in goats and sheep in the semiarid region of northeastern Brazil.] Polioencefalomalacia em caprinos e ovinos na região semi-árida do Nordeste do Brasil. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 25(1):9-14. Centro de Saúde e Tecnologia Rural, Universidade Federal de Campina Grande, Campus de Patos, 58700-000 Patos, PB, Brazil. E-mail: riet@cstr.ufcg.edu.br Seven outbreaks of polioencephalomalacia in goats and 3 in sheep are reported from the semiarid region of northeastern Brazil. Animals of different ages were affected in various seasons of the year. In 5 outbreaks the animals were supplemented with concentrate ration and in 5 others they were only grazing on pastures. In one outbreak sheep were supplemented with an energy-protein-mineral mixture containing 1.3% of sulfur flower. Clinical signs were characterized by blindness, depression, head pressing, circling, grinding of the teeth, incoordination, spastic paralysis, ataxia, depression of the palpebral and pupillary reflexes, lateral strabismus, nystagmus, and dilated pupils. Nine affected animals were treated with thiamine and dexamethasone; 7 of them recovered but 2 died. The diagnosis of the disease was based on the recovered animals after treatment and/or on the histologic lesions. The clinical course varied from 2 to 15 days. On three animals post-mortem examination was made. One had herniation of the cerebellum through the Foramen magnum and softening of the cerebral cortex. The cut surface of the cerebral cortex showed cavitation and yellowish discoloration. Another animal had only cerebellar herniation. In a third animal no gross lesions were observed. Histological changes in the 3 animals were laminar necrosis of the cerebral cortex, and in 2 malacia of the thalamus and the rostral colliculi was also observed. In 9 outbreaks the cause of the disease was not determined, but one was probably due to sulfur toxicosis caused by the high sulfur content of the energy-protein-mineral mixture containing 1.3% of sulfur flower (96% sulfur) and 30% chicken litter (0.39% sulfur).

• Polioencephalomalacia cortical necrosis goats sheep sulfur poisoning thiamine deficiency.

Abstract in Portuguese:

Lima E.F., Riet-Correa F., Tabosa I.M., Dantas A.F.M., Medeiros J.M. & Sucupira Júnior G. 2005. [Polioencephalomalacia in goats and sheep in the semiarid region of northeastern Brazil.] Polioencefalomalacia em caprinos e ovinos na região semi-árida do Nordeste do Brasil. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 25(1):9-14. Centro de Saúde e Tecnologia Rural, Universidade Federal de Campina Grande, Campus de Patos, 58700-000 Patos, PB, Brazil. E-mail: riet@cstr.ufcg.edu.br Seven outbreaks of polioencephalomalacia in goats and 3 in sheep are reported from the semiarid region of northeastern Brazil. Animals of different ages were affected in various seasons of the year. In 5 outbreaks the animals were supplemented with concentrate ration and in 5 others they were only grazing on pastures. In one outbreak sheep were supplemented with an energy-protein-mineral mixture containing 1.3% of sulfur flower. Clinical signs were characterized by blindness, depression, head pressing, circling, grinding of the teeth, incoordination, spastic paralysis, ataxia, depression of the palpebral and pupillary reflexes, lateral strabismus, nystagmus, and dilated pupils. Nine affected animals were treated with thiamine and dexamethasone; 7 of them recovered but 2 died. The diagnosis of the disease was based on the recovered animals after treatment and/or on the histologic lesions. The clinical course varied from 2 to 15 days. On three animals post-mortem examination was made. One had herniation of the cerebellum through the Foramen magnum and softening of the cerebral cortex. The cut surface of the cerebral cortex showed cavitation and yellowish discoloration. Another animal had only cerebellar herniation. In a third animal no gross lesions were observed. Histological changes in the 3 animals were laminar necrosis of the cerebral cortex, and in 2 malacia of the thalamus and the rostral colliculi was also observed. In 9 outbreaks the cause of the disease was not determined, but one was probably due to sulfur toxicosis caused by the high sulfur content of the energy-protein-mineral mixture containing 1.3% of sulfur flower (96% sulfur) and 30% chicken litter (0.39% sulfur).

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Mendonça C.L., Vieira D., Kohayagawa A., Schenk M.A.M., Madruga C.R. & Afonso J.A.B. 2003. [Clinical and hematological evaluation of Nelore calves experimentally infected with isolates of Babesia bigemina from the Southeastern, Northeastern and Northern regions of Brazil.] Avaliação clínica e hematológica em bezerros Nelore infectados experimentalmente com isolados de Babesia bigemina das regiões Sudeste, Nordeste e Norte do Brasil. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 23(2):52-60. Clínica de Bovinos, Campus Garanhuns, Univ. Fed. Rural de Pernambuco, Cx. Postal 152, Garanhuns, PE 55292-901, Brazil. A comparative study was made regarding the clinical and hematological alterations caused by isolates of Babesia bigemina from southeastern, northeastern and northern Brazil in experimentally infected Nelore calves. Eighteen calves between 7 and 9 months of age, without antibodies against Babesia sp and raised free from ticks, were used. Three animais were previously inoculated with 2.0x109 parasitic erythrocytes (PE) for each stabilate. The other 15 calves were subdivided into three groups, with five animais each, that were subinoculated with 1.0x1010 PE of the respective isolates. The clinical and hematological alterations were evaluated by the determination of parasitaemia, haemogram, plasmatic fibrinogen,reticulocyte count, descriptive analysis of the bone marrow and erythrocytic osmotic fragility, for 30 days, totalizing seven moments of observation. The follow-up of the immunological response by the indirect fluorescent antibody test was carried out daily until the 10th day after inoculation (DAI) and after that, on the 151 20th, 25th and 30th DAI. A mild clinical manifestation of the disease was observed. The laboratory findings revealed low leveis of parasitaemia; decrease of the erythrogram values; absence of reticulocytes, initial decrease in the total count of leukocytes, neutrophils and lymphocytes with a posterior elevation of the number of these cells; hypercellularity of the erythrocytic series and decrease of the myeloid: erythroid relation which was more accentuated between the 8th and 12th DAI, and an increase of the erythrocytic osmotic fragility in the groups inoculated with the Southeast and Northeast isolates. None of the three isolates of B. bigemina gave rise to the clinical characteristic form of the disease, although they induced an humoral immune response.

• Experimental infection Babesia bigemina calves brazilian isolates haemogram bone marrow erythrocytic osmotic fragility Infecção experimental bezerros isolados hemograma medula óssea fragilidade osmótica eritrocitária.

Abstract in Portuguese:

RESUMO.- Mendonça C.L., Vieira D., Kohayagawa A., Schenk M.A.M., Madruga C.R. & Afonso J.A.B. 2003. [Clinical and hematological evaluation of Nelore calves experimentally infected with isolates of Babesia bigemina from the Southeastern, Northeastern and Northern regions of Brazil.] Avaliação clínica e hematológica em bezerros Nelore infectados experimentalmente com isolados de Babesia bigemina das regiões Sudeste, Nordeste e Norte do Brasil. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 23(2):52-60. Clínica de Bovinos, Campus Garanhuns, Univ. Fed. Rural de Pernambuco, Cx. Postal 152, Garanhuns, PE 55292-901, Brazil. O presente trabalho teve por objetivo estudar comparativamente as alterações clínicas e hematológicas desencadeadas por isolados de Babesia bigemina das regiões Sudeste, Nordeste e Norte do Brasil em bezerros Nelore infectados experimentalmente. Foram utilizados 18 bezerros com idade entre sete e nove meses, isentos de anticorpos contra Babesia sp. e criados livres de carrapatos. Três animais foram previamente inoculados com 2,0x109 eritrócitos parasitados (EP) para cada isolado. Os outros 15 bezerros foram subdivididos em três grupos de cinco animais, que foram subinoculados com 1,0x1010 EP dos respectivos isolados. Foram avaliadas as alterações clínicas e hematológica por meio da determinação da parasitemia, do hemograma, do fibrinogênio plasmático, da contagem de reticulócitos, da análise descritiva da medula óssea e da fragilidade osmótica eritrocitária, no decorrer de 30 dias, perfazendo um total de sete momentos de observação. O acompanhamento da resposta imunológica pelo teste de imunofluorescência indireta foi realizado diariamente até o 10º dia pós-inoculação (DPI) e posteriormente no 15º, 20º, 25º e 30º DPI. Clinicamente, observou-se uma manifestação muito branda da doença. Os achados laboratoriais revelaram baixos níveis de parasitemia; decréscimo nos valores do eritrograma; ausência de reticulócitos; diminuição inicial na contagem total dos leucócitos, neutrófilos e linfócitos com posterior elevação do número destas células; hipercelularidade da série eritrocítica e decréscimo da relação mielóide:eritróide mais acentuada entre o 8º e 12º DPI e um aumento da fragilidade osmótica eritrocitária nos grupos inoculados com os isolados sudeste e nordeste. Nenhum dos três isolados de B. bigemina desencadeou a forma clínica característica da enfermidade, apesar de induzirem uma resposta imune humoral.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Mota R.A., Brito M.F., Castro F.J.C. & Massa M. 2000. [Glanders in horses and mules of the states of Pernambuco and Alagoas, Brazil.] Mormo em eqüídeos nos Estados de Pernambuco e Alagoas_ Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 20(4):155-159. Depto Med. Vet., Univ. Fed. Rural de Pernambuco, Rua Dom Manoel de Medeiros s/nº, Dois Irmãos, Recife, PE 52171- 900, Brazil. Based on clinical-pathological, epidemiological and serological aspects, as well as by the isolation of Burkholderia mallei, foci of glanders were diagnosed in equids of the &quot;Zona da Mata&quot; in the states of Pernambuco and Alagoas. Clinically there was hyperthermia, noisy respiration, loss of appetite, progressive loss of weight leading to emaciation, nasal congestion and muco-purulent discharge, erosions, ulcers and scars of the nasal mucosa. The size of submaxillary and cervical lymphonodes was increased, which contained abscesses and fistules exudating purulent material. In the skin, accompanying the lymph vessels, there were firm nodules and abscesses which in chronic cases fistulated and ulcerated Ieaving stellar scars. The histopathology of the nodules at various sites, from the horses as well as from the guineapigs used for the Strauss test, showed granulomatous lesions and pyogranulomas. The results of this study showed that glanders in the region was emerging and further sero-epidemiological studies are urgent for the eradication of the disease.

• Glanders equids Northeast Brazil Mormo eqüídeos Nordeste do Brasil.

Abstract in Portuguese:

RESUMO.- Mota R.A., Brito M.F., Castro F.J.C. & Massa M. 2000. [Glanders in horses and mules of the states of Pernambuco and Alagoas, Brazil.] Mormo em eqüídeos nos Estados de Pernambuco e Alagoas_ Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 20(4):155-159. Depto Med. Vet., Univ. Fed. Rural de Pernambuco, Rua Dom Manoel de Medeiros s/nº, Dois Irmãos, Recife, PE 52171- 900, Brazil. Com base em aspectos clínico-patológicos, epidemiológicos e sorológicos, bem como pelo isolamento de Burkholderia mallei, diagnosticaram-se focos de mormo em eqüídeos na Zona da Mata dos Estados de Pernambuco e Alagoas. Clinicamente observaram-se hipertermia, respiração ruidosa, inapetência, emagrecimento progressivo até caquexia, congestão nasal e descarga mlicopurulenta, erosões, úlceras e cicatrizes na mucosa nasal. Os linfonodos mandibulares e cervicais superficiais apresentavam-se aumentados de volume, com abscessos e fistulas exsudando material purulento. Na pele, ao longo dos vasos linfáticos, havia formação de nódulos firmes e abscessos que, nos casos crônicos, fistulavam e ulceravam deixando cicatrizes estrelares. A histopatologia dos nódulos de diversos sítios, tanto dos eqüídeos como dos cobaios utilizados na prova de Straus, revelou lesões granulomatosas e piogranulomas. Os dados deste estudo evidenciam a emergência da doença nesta área e permitem recomendar inquéritos soro-epidemiológicos nos Estados de ocorrência dos surtos e nos Estados limítrofes.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Peixoto P.V., Mota R.A., Brito M.F., Corbellini L.G., Driemeier D. & Souza M.I. 2000. [Spontaneous BRSV infection in cattle of the state of Alagoas, Brazil.] Infecção natural pelo Vírus Sincicial Respiratório Bovino (BRSV) em bovinos no Estado de Alagoas. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 20(4):171-175. Projeto Sanidade Animal Embrapa/UFRRJ, Km 47, Seropédica, RJ 23851-970, Brazil. Cases of bovine respiratory syncytial virus (BRSV) infection affecting calves in the State of Alagoas, Brazil, are described. At least 220 calves, which were the progeny of Brown Swiss and Holstein Friesian cattle imported from Germany, Austria, and Uruguay, have died from the disease since 1995. Clinical signs included fever, dry cough, serous ocular discharge and, towards the final stages, marked dyspnea. On auscultation therewere loud and harsh breathing sounds, and a strong wheezing could be heard from a distance. Histopathology of the lung revealed interstitial pneumonia associated with syncytial cells and infiltration by lymphocytes and eosinophils. A few plasma cells containing Russel bodies in their cytoplasm were also observed. There was hyperplasia of type li pneumocytes and mild squamous metaplasia of the respiratory epithelium. Bronchiolar epithelial cells and syncytial cells were positively stained with anti-BRSV antibody. The finding of BRSV infection in calves in Northeast Brazil plus identical findings already reported from South Brazil, strongly indicate the need for a wide epidemiologic survey in arder to evaluate the lasses due to BRSV infection and the incidence of infected cattle. There is evidence that at least part of the imported animals involved in this outbreak was already infected on arrival at the port of Belém, in the State of Pará, Brazil.

• BRSV infection cattle Northeast Brazil Vírus Sincicial Respiratório Bovino bovinos Nordeste do Brasil.

Abstract in Portuguese:

RESUMO.- Peixoto P.V., Mota R.A., Brito M.F., Corbellini L.G., Driemeier D. & Souza M.I. 2000. [Spontaneous BRSV infection in cattle of the state of Alagoas, Brazil.] Infecção natural pelo Vírus Sincicial Respiratório Bovino (BRSV) em bovinos no Estado de Alagoas. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 20(4):171-175. Projeto Sanidade Animal Embrapa/UFRRJ, Km 47, Seropédica, RJ 23851-970, Brazil. Descreve-se a ocorrência de infecção pelo vírus sincicial respiratório bovino (BRSV) em bezerros descendentes de animais das raças pardo-suíça e holandesa importados da Alemanha, Áustria, Suíça e Uruguai, na qual morreram em Alagoas, Brasil, pelo menos 220 cabeças, de 1995 até apresente data. O quadro clínico caracterizou-se por hipertermia, tosse seca, mais tarde dispnéia acentuada e por vezes lacrimejamento; à auscultação havia estertores secos, depois úmidos, com sibilos, muitas vezes audíveis à distância. O exame histológico revelou pneumonia intersticial com formação de células sinciciais, infiltração predominantemente linfocitária com presença de eosinófilos e de corpúsculos de Russel, proliferação de pneumócitos tipo II e leve metaplasia escamosa. Células epiteliais de bronquíolos e células sinciciais marcaram-se positivamente com o anticorpo anti-BRSV. A ocorrência da enfermidade no Sul e agora no Nordeste do Brasil indica a necessidade de se promover um amplo levantamento epidemiológico para se avaliar o grau de perdas e a proporção de animais infectados no país. Lembramos que parte dos animais importados, ao que tudo indica, já estavam infectados nos países de origem, quando desembarcaram em Belém, Pará.