PESQUISA VETERINÁRIA BRASILEIRA

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Silva M.C., Fighera R.A., Mazzanti A., Brum J.S., Pierezan F. & Barros C.S.L. 2009 [Neuropathology of canine distemper: 70 cases (2005-2008).] Neuropatologia da cinomose canina: 70 casos (2005-2008). Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(8):643-652. Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900 Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: mctogni@yahoo.com.br The current study was performed to determine the pathology and distribution of lesions in the central nervous system (CNS) of 70 dogs naturally affected by canine distemper. Cases were grouped according to the age of the dogs and classified according to the evolution of the lesions. It was possibly to conclude that: (1) the encephalomyelitis induced by canine distemper virus is more prevalent in puppies and adults; (2) gross lesions in the CNS occur infrequently; (3) the brain is more frequently affected than the spinal cord; (4) the five anatomical sites of the rain more frequently affected are, in decreasing order of frequency, cerebellum, diencephalon, frontal lobe of telencephalon, pons and mesencephalon; (5) the anatomical site more frequently affected in the spinal cord is the cervical (C1-C5) segment; (6) subacute and chronic lesions are more common than acute ones; (7) demyelization is the more prevalent lesion and occur mainly in the cerebellum, pons and diencephalons, usually associated with astrogliosis and non-suppurative inflammation; (8) in most cases with astrogliosis, gemistocytic astrocytes are observed, frequently with syncitia formation; (9) non-suppurative leptomeningitis, malacia and cortical neuronal necrosis are moderately frequent in the brain and less so in the spinal cord; (10) inclusion bodies are frequent in the brain; occur mainly in astrocytes and less frequently in neurons, however independently of the affected cell they occur mainly in the nucleus; (11) a classification of canine distemper encephalitis based in age-related clinical syndromes it is not accurate.

• Neuropathology canine distemper

Abstract in Portuguese:

RESUMO.- Silva M.C., Fighera R.A., Mazzanti A., Brum J.S., Pierezan F. & Barros C.S.L. 2009 [Neuropathology of canine distemper: 70 cases (2005-2008).] Neuropatologia da cinomose canina: 70 casos (2005-2008). Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(8):643-652. Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900 Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: mctogni@yahoo.com.br Este estudo teve como objetivo realizar uma investigação anátomo-patológica detalhada das lesões e sua distribuição no sistema nervoso central (SNC) de cães com cinomose. Foram avaliadas secções padronizadas do encéfalo e da medula espinhal de 70 cães. Os casos foram agrupados de acordo com a idade dos cães e classificados conforme a evolução das lesões. Os resultados permitem concluir que: (1) encefalomielite induzida pelo vírus da cinomose canina é mais prevalente em filhotes e adultos; (2) lesões macroscópicas no SNC ocorrem com baixa freqüência; (3) o encéfalo é mais acometido do que a medula espinhal; (4) as cinco regiões anatômicas mais afetadas do encéfalo são, em ordem decrescente de freqüência, o cerebelo, o diencéfalo, o lobo frontal, a ponte e o mesencéfalo; (5) a região anatômica mais afetada da medula espinhal é o segmento cervical cranial (C1-C5); (6) lesões subagudas e crônicas são mais comuns do que lesões agudas; (7) desmielinização é a lesão mais prevalente e ocorre principalmente no cerebelo, na ponte e no diencéfalo, quase sempre acompanhada de astrogliose e inflamação não-supurativa; (8) na maior parte dos casos em que há astrogliose, observam-se astrócitos gemistocíticos, freqüentemente com formação de sincícios; (9) leptomeningite não-supurativa, malacia e necrose cortical laminar são lesões relativamente freqüentes no encéfalo, mas não na medula espinhal; (10) corpúsculos de inclusão no encéfalo são muito comuns, ocorrem principalmente em astrócitos e com freqüência menor em neurônios; no entanto, independentemente da célula afetada, são vistos predominantemente no núcleo; (11) uma classificação da encefalite na cinomose com base em síndromes clínicas relacionadas com a idade do cão é imprecisa.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Gabriel A.L., Kommers G.D., Masuda E.K, Fighera R.A., Piazer J.V.M., Barros C.S.L., Martins T.B. & Rosa F.B. 2009. [Clinical and hematological aspects and urinary bladder lesions in chronic spontaneous poisoning by Pteridium aquilinum in cattle.] Aspectos clínicos-hematológicos e lesões vesicais nas formas crônicas de intoxicação espontânea por Pteridium aquilinum em bovinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(7):515-525. Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, Camobi, Santa Maria, RS 97105-900, Brazil. E-mail: glaukommers@yahoo.com Spontaneous cases of chronic poisoning by Pteridium aquilinum in cattle were studied. The clinical forms of the disease were squamous cell carcinoma (SCCs) of the upper digestive tract (UDT) and bovine enzootic hematuria (BEH). The cases were from the midland Region of the Midwest of Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazil, and were submitted to the Laboratório de Patologia Veterinária of the Universidade Federal de Santa Maria. Clinical signs and blood work were evaluated at terminal phase of disease. Cattle with UDT SCCs had progressive weigth loss, ruminal atony, cough, dysphagia, bloating, and regurgitation. In cattle with BEH, hematuria was observed in all cases, followed by progressive weight loss. Non-regenerative anemia was detected in 33.33% of the cattle with UDT SCCs form and in 66.66% of the cattle with BEH form. Changes in white blood count occurred in some cases but drop in lymphocyte numbers was uncommon in both forms of disease. For the morphological study, urinary bladders from 46 cattle with UDT SCCs and 11 cattle with BEH were analyzed. Grossly, 16/46 bladders from the UDT SCCs form had gross lesions (red or pale vesical nodules, hemorrhages, and papilomas; red urine was detected at necropsy of only three cases). In BEH form, the bladder had nodules, large neoplastic masses, red urine, papilomas, and hemorrhages. Pyelonephritis and hydronephrosis were seen in a few cases. Microscopically, in the UDT SCCs form, 44/46 (95.65%) bladders had 22 different types of morphological changes, characterized by neoplastic lesions (5/22) and non-neoplastic lesions (17/22); the latter were subdivided in non-neoplastic epithelial changes (6/17), general changes of the lamina propria (6/17), and inflammatory changes (5/17). The bladder changes in BEH form were of 19 different types, characterized by neoplastic lesions (5/19) and non-neoplastic lesions (14/19), which were subdivided in non-neoplastic epitelial changes (9/14), general changes of the lamina propria (3/14), and inflammatory changes (2/14). In BEH, mesenchymal neoplasms were more observed than epithelial ones, and most of them were malignant. Immunohistochemistry was utilized to characterize the histogenesis of poorly differentiated neoplasms. In conclusion, the morphological study demonstrated that urinary bladder lesions identical to the those seen in cattle with BEH, are very often present in cattle with the UDT SCCs form.

• Diseases of cattle poisonous plants; Pteridium aquilinum bovine enzootic hematuria squamous cell carcinomas of the digestive system veterinary pathology

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Gabriel A.L., Kommers G.D., Masuda E.K, Fighera R.A., Piazer J.V.M., Barros C.S.L., Martins T.B. & Rosa F.B. 2009. [Clinical and hematological aspects and urinary bladder lesions in chronic spontaneous poisoning by Pteridium aquilinum in cattle.] Aspectos clínicos-hematológicos e lesões vesicais nas formas crônicas de intoxicação espontânea por Pteridium aquilinum em bovinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(7):515-525. Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, Camobi, Santa Maria, RS 97105-900, Brazil. E-mail: glaukommers@yahoo.com Spontaneous cases of chronic poisoning by Pteridium aquilinum in cattle were studied. The clinical forms of the disease were squamous cell carcinoma (SCCs) of the upper digestive tract (UDT) and bovine enzootic hematuria (BEH). The cases were from the midland Region of the Midwest of Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazil, and were submitted to the Laboratório de Patologia Veterinária of the Universidade Federal de Santa Maria. Clinical signs and blood work were evaluated at terminal phase of disease. Cattle with UDT SCCs had progressive weigth loss, ruminal atony, cough, dysphagia, bloating, and regurgitation. In cattle with BEH, hematuria was observed in all cases, followed by progressive weight loss. Non-regenerative anemia was detected in 33.33% of the cattle with UDT SCCs form and in 66.66% of the cattle with BEH form. Changes in white blood count occurred in some cases but drop in lymphocyte numbers was uncommon in both forms of disease. For the morphological study, urinary bladders from 46 cattle with UDT SCCs and 11 cattle with BEH were analyzed. Grossly, 16/46 bladders from the UDT SCCs form had gross lesions (red or pale vesical nodules, hemorrhages, and papilomas; red urine was detected at necropsy of only three cases). In BEH form, the bladder had nodules, large neoplastic masses, red urine, papilomas, and hemorrhages. Pyelonephritis and hydronephrosis were seen in a few cases. Microscopically, in the UDT SCCs form, 44/46 (95.65%) bladders had 22 different types of morphological changes, characterized by neoplastic lesions (5/22) and non-neoplastic lesions (17/22); the latter were subdivided in non-neoplastic epithelial changes (6/17), general changes of the lamina propria (6/17), and inflammatory changes (5/17). The bladder changes in BEH form were of 19 different types, characterized by neoplastic lesions (5/19) and non-neoplastic lesions (14/19), which were subdivided in non-neoplastic epitelial changes (9/14), general changes of the lamina propria (3/14), and inflammatory changes (2/14). In BEH, mesenchymal neoplasms were more observed than epithelial ones, and most of them were malignant. Immunohistochemistry was utilized to characterize the histogenesis of poorly differentiated neoplasms. In conclusion, the morphological study demonstrated that urinary bladder lesions identical to the those seen in cattle with BEH, are very often present in cattle with the UDT SCCs form.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Trost M.E., Kommers G.D., Barros C.S.L & Schild A.L. 2009. [Patogenesis of lesions associated with poisoning by Ramaria flavo-brunnescens in cattle.] Patogênese das lesões associadas à intoxicação por Ramaria flavo-brunnescens em bovinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(7):533-544. Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900 Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: glaukommers@yahoo.com The pathogenesis of the lesions of Ramaria flavo-brunnescens poisoning in cattle was studied throughout the retrospective evaluation of selected tissues from nine spontaneous and four experimental cases of the disease. The pathogenesis of lesions observed in the tongue, esophagus, hoof, and tail was investigated analyzing microscopic lesions, histochemical and histochemical-ultrastructural changes. Histochemical techniques utilized were Masson’s Trichrome and Selective Oxidation of Keratin (SOK). The histochemical-ultrastructural study was acomplished throughout the Swift method under transmission electron microscopy. Hair shafts of the tip of the tail were analyzed under polarized light. Lesions of varying degrees of severity were observed. All changes observed in the keratinized structures studied, mostly in the hard keratin, showed defective keratinization. The morphologic study and the results obtained with SOK and Swift techniques showed that the defective keratinization results of low amounts of sulphur containing amino acids (cystine) in hard keratin structures. This is probably the main pathogenetic mechanism of the lesions observed in R. flavo brunnescens poisoning in cattle.

• Poisonous plants mushroom poisoning Ramaria flavo-brunnescens cattle keratinization veterinary pathology

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Trost M.E., Kommers G.D., Barros C.S.L & Schild A.L. 2009. [Patogenesis of lesions associated with poisoning by Ramaria flavo-brunnescens in cattle.] Patogênese das lesões associadas à intoxicação por Ramaria flavo-brunnescens em bovinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(7):533-544. Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900 Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: glaukommers@yahoo.com The pathogenesis of the lesions of Ramaria flavo-brunnescens poisoning in cattle was studied throughout the retrospective evaluation of selected tissues from nine spontaneous and four experimental cases of the disease. The pathogenesis of lesions observed in the tongue, esophagus, hoof, and tail was investigated analyzing microscopic lesions, histochemical and histochemical-ultrastructural changes. Histochemical techniques utilized were Masson’s Trichrome and Selective Oxidation of Keratin (SOK). The histochemical-ultrastructural study was acomplished throughout the Swift method under transmission electron microscopy. Hair shafts of the tip of the tail were analyzed under polarized light. Lesions of varying degrees of severity were observed. All changes observed in the keratinized structures studied, mostly in the hard keratin, showed defective keratinization. The morphologic study and the results obtained with SOK and Swift techniques showed that the defective keratinization results of low amounts of sulphur containing amino acids (cystine) in hard keratin structures. This is probably the main pathogenetic mechanism of the lesions observed in R. flavo brunnescens poisoning in cattle.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Sant’Ana F.J.F., Rissi D.R., Lucena R.B., Lemos R.A.A., Nogueira A.P.A. & Barros C.S.L. 2009. [Bovine polioencephalomalacia: epidemiology, clinical signs and distribution of lesions in the brain.] Polioencefalomalacia em bovinos: epidemiologia, sinais clínicos e distribuição das lesões no encéfalo. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(7):487-497. Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900, Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: claudioslbarros@uol.com.br Thirty one cases of polioencephalomalacia (PEM) diagnosed from 1999-2008 in cattle from the Southern (13 cases) and Midwestern (18 cases) Brazil were studied. Morbidity (0.04%-6.66 %), mortality (0.04%-6.66 %), and lethality (50%-100%) rates were similar in both regions studied. There was no clear association between PEM cases and age, sex or seasonality. Cases occurred mainly in cattle raised at pasture; in the Southern the disease affected mainly young cattle (one-year old or less) while mainly older cattle (three-year-old or older) were affected in the Midwest. Clinical signs more frequently observed included blindness, incoordination, circling, opisthotonus, recumbence and peddling movements. Clinical course varied from 12 hours to 8 days (average three days and a half). In 11 cases no gross changes were observed in the brain. Main gross findings in the brain of remaining cases included congestion with swelling and flattening of gyri, softening and yellow discoloration of cerebral cortex, hemorrhagic foci in the brain stem, cerebellum and telencephalon, and cerebellar herniation. The main histopathological changes were in the cortex of occipital, parietal and frontal telencephalic lobes; however less prominent and less frequently found lesions occurred in the hippocampus, basal nuclei, thalamus, midbrain, and cerebellum. The type of microscopic cortical lesions was consistent in all cases and included segmentar laminar neuronal necrosis (red neurons), spongiosis, swollen of vascular endothelial nuclei, Alzheimer type II astrocytes and infiltration of gitter cells. In 20% of the cases there was mild lymphohistiocytic cellular infiltrate and in 13% of the cases there was mild infiltrate by neutrophils and eosinophils. Additionally, mild to moderate necro-hemorrhagic lesions were observed in 49% of the cases in the basal nuclei, in 39% of the cases in brain stem and in 26% of the cases in the thalamus. Brain lesions were consistently found in the cortical laminae of the occipital, parietal and frontal telencephalic lobes. In such locations, most frequently affected cortical layers both by neuronal necrosis and edema were external and internal granular layers. Both gyri and sulci were equally affected.

• Diseases of cattle neuropathology distribution of lesions polioencephalomalacia

Abstract in Portuguese:

RESUMO.- Sant’Ana F.J.F., Rissi D.R., Lucena R.B., Lemos R.A.A., Nogueira A.P.A. & Barros C.S.L. 2009. [Bovine polioencephalomalacia: epidemiology, clinical signs and distribution of lesions in the brain.] Polioencefalomalacia em bovinos: epidemiologia, sinais clínicos e distribuição das lesões no encéfalo. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(7):487-497. Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900, Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: claudioslbarros@uol.com.br RESUMO.- Trinta e um casos de polioencefalomalacia (PEM) diagnosticados de 1999-2008 em bovinos do Sul (13 casos) e Centro-Oeste (18 casos) brasileiros foram estudados. As taxas de morbidade (0,04%-6,66 %), mortalidade (0,04%-6,66 %) e letalidade (50%-100%) foram semelhantes em ambas as regiões estudadas. Não houve uma associação clara entre os casos de PEM e a idade, sexo dos bovinos e sazonalidade. Os casos ocorreram principalmente em bovinos criados de forma extensiva em pastagem. Na Região Sul a doença afetou principalmente bovinos jovens (um ano de idade ou menos), enquanto que principalmente bovinos mais velhos (3 anos de idade ou mais) foram afetados no Centro-Oeste. Os sinais clínicos mais frequentemente observados incluíram cegueira, incoordenação, andar em círculos, opistótono, decúbito e movimentos de pedalagem. A evolução do quadro clínico variou de 12 horas a 8 dias (media 3 dias e meio). Em 11 encéfalos não foram observadas alterações macroscópicas; as principais alterações macroscópicas nos outros casos incluíam congestão com tumefação e achatamento das circunvoluções, amolecimento e amarelamento do córtex telencefálico, focos de hemorragia no tronco encefálico, cerebelo e telencéfalo e herniação cerebelar. As principais alterações histológicas ocorreram no córtex dos lobos telencefálicos occipital, parietal e frontal; no entanto, lesões menos acentuadas e menos frequentemente observadas ocorreram no hipocampo, núcleos da base, tálamo, mesencéfalo e cerebelo. O tipo de lesão microscópica cortical era consistente em todos os casos e incluía necrose neuronal (neurônio vermelho) laminar segmentar, espongiose, tumefação do núcleo das células endoteliais, astrócitos Alzheimer tipo II e infiltração por células gitter. Em 20% dos casos havia um leve infiltrado celular linfo-histiocitário e em 13% dos casos havia leve infiltrado de neutrófilos e eosinófilos. Adicionalmente, lesões necro-hemorrágicas leves ou moderadas foram observadas em 49% dos casos nos núcleos da base, em 39% dos casos no tronco encefálico e em 26% dos casos no tálamo. Lesões telencefálicas foram consistentemente observadas nas lâminas dos córtices dos lobos occipital, parietal e frontal. Nessas regiões as camadas granular externa e interna foram as mais afetadas tanto por neurônios necróticos quanto por edema em todas as regiões avaliadas. Tanto os giros quanto os sulcos foram afetados igualmente.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Pierezan F., Rissi D.R., Oliveira Filho J.C., Lucena R.B., Tochetto C., Flores M.M., Rosa F.B & Barros C.S.L. 2009. [Granulomatous enteritis associated with larval cyathostomiasis in horses in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.] Enterite granulomatosa associada a larvas de ciatostomíneos em eqüinos no Rio Grande do Sul. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(5):382-386. Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900 Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: claudioslbarros@uol.com.br Five cases of granulomatous enteritis associated with cyathostomes are described in horses from three farms in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. The cases occurred from January 1999 to December 2007. The clinical course in two cases in which clinical follow-up was available was 10-14 days. Clinical signs presented by two horses were similar and included diarrhea (3/3), weight loss (2/3), pyrexia (1/3), tachycardia (1/3), and tachypnea (1/3). Gross changes consisted of thickening of the wall of large colon and cecum by edema and the occurrence of numerous 1-4mm, dark-tan, slightly raised multifocal pinpoints disseminated throughout the mucosa. Up on the incision of these pinpoints, brown-reddish, small (1-2mm) nematode larvae emerged. Large numbers of parasites with morphology compatible with small strongyles were observed in the lumina of large colon and cecum or adhered to the mucosae of these organs. Histologically, multiple granulomas were seen in the mucosa and submucosa of large colon and cecum. These granulomas consisted of moderate to severe inflammatory infiltrate of macrophages, epithelioid macrophages, and eosinophils surrounded by fewer lymphocytes and plasma cells. In the center of these granulomas, transversal cut sections of parasites with morphology compatible with cyathostomes larvae were observed. Additionally, there was edema and moderate to marked lymphohistioplasmacytic and eosinophilic inflammatory infiltrate throughout the mucosa and submucosa of the large colon and cecum; necrosis and lymphohistiocytic proliferation in the submucosal lymphoid follicles, with hyperplasia of goblet cells in the epithelial lining of these organs were also observed. The diagnosis of granulomatous enteritis associated with larval cyathostomiasis was made based on epidemiological, clinical, and gross findings which were confirmed by histopathology.

• Diseases of horses strongylus cyathostomes Doenças de eqüinos estrôngilos ciastotomíneos

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Pierezan F., Rissi D.R., Oliveira Filho J.C., Lucena R.B., Tochetto C., Flores M.M., Rosa F.B & Barros C.S.L. 2009. [Granulomatous enteritis associated with larval cyathostomiasis in horses in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.] Enterite granulomatosa associada a larvas de ciatostomíneos em eqüinos no Rio Grande do Sul. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(5):382-386. Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900 Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: claudioslbarros@uol.com.br Five cases of granulomatous enteritis associated with cyathostomes are described in horses from three farms in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. The cases occurred from January 1999 to December 2007. The clinical course in two cases in which clinical follow-up was available was 10-14 days. Clinical signs presented by two horses were similar and included diarrhea (3/3), weight loss (2/3), pyrexia (1/3), tachycardia (1/3), and tachypnea (1/3). Gross changes consisted of thickening of the wall of large colon and cecum by edema and the occurrence of numerous 1-4mm, dark-tan, slightly raised multifocal pinpoints disseminated throughout the mucosa. Up on the incision of these pinpoints, brown-reddish, small (1-2mm) nematode larvae emerged. Large numbers of parasites with morphology compatible with small strongyles were observed in the lumina of large colon and cecum or adhered to the mucosae of these organs. Histologically, multiple granulomas were seen in the mucosa and submucosa of large colon and cecum. These granulomas consisted of moderate to severe inflammatory infiltrate of macrophages, epithelioid macrophages, and eosinophils surrounded by fewer lymphocytes and plasma cells. In the center of these granulomas, transversal cut sections of parasites with morphology compatible with cyathostomes larvae were observed. Additionally, there was edema and moderate to marked lymphohistioplasmacytic and eosinophilic inflammatory infiltrate throughout the mucosa and submucosa of the large colon and cecum; necrosis and lymphohistiocytic proliferation in the submucosal lymphoid follicles, with hyperplasia of goblet cells in the epithelial lining of these organs were also observed. The diagnosis of granulomatous enteritis associated with larval cyathostomiasis was made based on epidemiological, clinical, and gross findings which were confirmed by histopathology.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Pierezan F., Rissi D.R., Rech R.R., Fighera R.A. Brum J.S. & Barros C.S.L. 2009. [Necropsy findings related to the cause of death in 335 horses: 1968-2007.] Achados de necropsia relacionados com a morte de 335 eqüinos: 1968-2007. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(3):275-280. Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900 Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: claudioslbarros@uol.com.br The necropsy reports of 335 horses necropsied at the LPV-UFSM between 1968-2007 were reviewed in order to determine the necropsy findings related with cause of death or reason for euthanasia. The distribution of these findings by organ system were as follows: digestive (79/335 [23.6%]), striated muscle and skeleton (47/335 [14.0%]), nervous (37/335 [11.0%]), respiratory (35/335 [10.4%]), integument (31/335 [9.3%]), hematopoietic (24/335 [7.2%]), cardiovascular (13/335 [3.9%]), reproductive (12/335 [3.5%]), urinary (7/335 [2.1%]), and endocrine (3/335 [0.9%]). The cause of death was not possible to be determined in 47 (14.0%) necropsied horses. Displacements of the intestines (17/79 [21.5%]) were the main findings in digestive system, followed by obstruction and impactation (14/79 [17.7%]). Torsion were the type of displacement more frequently observed in the intestines (14/17 [82.4%]). Among those the more prevalent affected the small intestine (7/14 [50%]). Most horses dying from fractured bones were 1-5-year-old. The most prevalent diseases in the nervous system were leukoencephalo-malacia and trypanosomiasis, whereas respiratory depression due to anesthesia was the leading cause of death related to the respiratory system. Equine infectious anemia was the most diagnosed infectious disease and the main reason leading to euthanasia.

• Diseases of horses causes of death epidemiology pathology

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Pierezan F., Rissi D.R., Rech R.R., Fighera R.A. Brum J.S. & Barros C.S.L. 2009. [Necropsy findings related to the cause of death in 335 horses: 1968-2007.] Achados de necropsia relacionados com a morte de 335 eqüinos: 1968-2007. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(3):275-280. Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900 Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: claudioslbarros@uol.com.br The necropsy reports of 335 horses necropsied at the LPV-UFSM between 1968-2007 were reviewed in order to determine the necropsy findings related with cause of death or reason for euthanasia. The distribution of these findings by organ system were as follows: digestive (79/335 [23.6%]), striated muscle and skeleton (47/335 [14.0%]), nervous (37/335 [11.0%]), respiratory (35/335 [10.4%]), integument (31/335 [9.3%]), hematopoietic (24/335 [7.2%]), cardiovascular (13/335 [3.9%]), reproductive (12/335 [3.5%]), urinary (7/335 [2.1%]), and endocrine (3/335 [0.9%]). The cause of death was not possible to be determined in 47 (14.0%) necropsied horses. Displacements of the intestines (17/79 [21.5%]) were the main findings in digestive system, followed by obstruction and impactation (14/79 [17.7%]). Torsion were the type of displacement more frequently observed in the intestines (14/17 [82.4%]). Among those the more prevalent affected the small intestine (7/14 [50%]). Most horses dying from fractured bones were 1-5-year-old. The most prevalent diseases in the nervous system were leukoencephalo-malacia and trypanosomiasis, whereas respiratory depression due to anesthesia was the leading cause of death related to the respiratory system. Equine infectious anemia was the most diagnosed infectious disease and the main reason leading to euthanasia.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Souza T.M., Fighera R.A., Schmidt C., Réquia A.H., Brum J.S., Martins T.B. & Barros C.S.L. 2009. [Prevalence of non-tumorous canine dermatopathies in dogs from the municipality of Santa Maria, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil (2005-2008).] Prevalência das dermatopatias não-tumorais em cães do município de Santa Maria, Rio Grande do Sul (2005-2008). Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(2):157-162. Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900 Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: teitsouza@yahoo.com.br The current study was aimed at determine the prevalence of non-tumorous canine dermatopathies affecting dogs from the municipality of Santa Maria, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. From March 2005 to June de 2008, the authors followed-up canine dermatological cases from two sources: those referred to the Dermatology Sector of the Veterinary Teaching Hospital at the Universidade Federal de Santa Maria and those from a private practice. During this period 480 dogs with dermatological problems were examined; in 393 (81.9%) it was possible to establish a definitive diagnosis and in 87 (18.1%) the diagnosis was inconclusive. Four hundred and twenty four primary diagnosis and 78 secondary diagnosis were performed in the 393 dogs with conclusive diagnosis, totaling 502 diagnosis. The distribution of the diagnosis according to the categories of diagnosed dermatopathies was as follows: Allergic (190/502 [37.8%]), bacterial (103/502 [20.5%]), parasitic (97/502 [19.3%]), environmental (28/502 [5,6%]), mycotic (20/502 [4.0%]), endocrine (13/502 [2.6%]), keratinization disturbances (11/502 [2.2%]), psychogenic (9/502 [1.8%]), acquired alopecias (6/502 [1.2%]), autoimmune (6/502 [1.2%]), inherited (6/502 [1.2%]), pigmentary disturbances (1/502 [0.2%], nutritional (1/502 [0.2%]), and sundry conditions (11/502 [2.2%]). In general, the ten most frequently diagnosed non-tumorous dermatopathies in decreasing order of frequency were: Atopy, flea bite allergic dermatitis, bacterial folliculitis, demodectic mange, deep bacterial folliculitis/furunculosis, sarcoptic mange, myiasis, food allergy, traumatic pyoderma, and Malassezia dermatitis. These 10 conditions together made up approximately for three quarters of all canine skin diseases diagnosed in the current study.

• Diseases of dogs skin diseases dermatology dermatopathology

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Souza T.M., Fighera R.A., Schmidt C., Réquia A.H., Brum J.S., Martins T.B. & Barros C.S.L. 2009. [Prevalence of non-tumorous canine dermatopathies in dogs from the municipality of Santa Maria, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil (2005-2008).] Prevalência das dermatopatias não-tumorais em cães do município de Santa Maria, Rio Grande do Sul (2005-2008). Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(2):157-162. Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900 Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: teitsouza@yahoo.com.br The current study was aimed at determine the prevalence of non-tumorous canine dermatopathies affecting dogs from the municipality of Santa Maria, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. From March 2005 to June de 2008, the authors followed-up canine dermatological cases from two sources: those referred to the Dermatology Sector of the Veterinary Teaching Hospital at the Universidade Federal de Santa Maria and those from a private practice. During this period 480 dogs with dermatological problems were examined; in 393 (81.9%) it was possible to establish a definitive diagnosis and in 87 (18.1%) the diagnosis was inconclusive. Four hundred and twenty four primary diagnosis and 78 secondary diagnosis were performed in the 393 dogs with conclusive diagnosis, totaling 502 diagnosis. The distribution of the diagnosis according to the categories of diagnosed dermatopathies was as follows: Allergic (190/502 [37.8%]), bacterial (103/502 [20.5%]), parasitic (97/502 [19.3%]), environmental (28/502 [5,6%]), mycotic (20/502 [4.0%]), endocrine (13/502 [2.6%]), keratinization disturbances (11/502 [2.2%]), psychogenic (9/502 [1.8%]), acquired alopecias (6/502 [1.2%]), autoimmune (6/502 [1.2%]), inherited (6/502 [1.2%]), pigmentary disturbances (1/502 [0.2%], nutritional (1/502 [0.2%]), and sundry conditions (11/502 [2.2%]). In general, the ten most frequently diagnosed non-tumorous dermatopathies in decreasing order of frequency were: Atopy, flea bite allergic dermatitis, bacterial folliculitis, demodectic mange, deep bacterial folliculitis/furunculosis, sarcoptic mange, myiasis, food allergy, traumatic pyoderma, and Malassezia dermatitis. These 10 conditions together made up approximately for three quarters of all canine skin diseases diagnosed in the current study.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Souza T.M., Fighera R.A., Kommers G.D. & Barros C.S.L. 2009. [Histological aspects of canine and feline skin as a tool for dermatopathology.] Aspectos histológicos da pele de cães e gatos como ferramenta para dermatopatologia. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(2):177-190. Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900 Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: teitsouza@yahoo.com.br Skin morphology differs among different animal species and most part of our knowledge on the morphology of human skin can not be applied for dogs and cats. Thus, the understanding of the basic morphologic aspects of the skin from different species is an invaluable tool for every professional in the field of veterinary pathology. Furthermore, the ability to recognize the main similarities and main differences in the skin morphology from different anatomical signs within the same animal is fundamental to the practice dermatopathology. This paper reviews the major aspects of the microscopic anatomy of the skin in dogs and cats, aiming to help those veterinary pathologists that are starting in the field of dermatopathology, since only with the knowledge of the peculiarities of this organ it will be possible to apply the diagnostic approach through lesion patterns.

• Morphology histology pathology dermatopathology skin dogs and cats

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Souza T.M., Fighera R.A., Kommers G.D. & Barros C.S.L. 2009. [Histological aspects of canine and feline skin as a tool for dermatopathology.] Aspectos histológicos da pele de cães e gatos como ferramenta para dermatopatologia. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(2):177-190. Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900 Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: teitsouza@yahoo.com.br Skin morphology differs among different animal species and most part of our knowledge on the morphology of human skin can not be applied for dogs and cats. Thus, the understanding of the basic morphologic aspects of the skin from different species is an invaluable tool for every professional in the field of veterinary pathology. Furthermore, the ability to recognize the main similarities and main differences in the skin morphology from different anatomical signs within the same animal is fundamental to the practice dermatopathology. This paper reviews the major aspects of the microscopic anatomy of the skin in dogs and cats, aiming to help those veterinary pathologists that are starting in the field of dermatopathology, since only with the knowledge of the peculiarities of this organ it will be possible to apply the diagnostic approach through lesion patterns.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Gabriel A.L., Kommers G.D., Trost M.E., Barros C.S.L., Pereira D.B., Schwendler S.E. & Santurio J.M. 2008. [Outbreak of cutaneous pythiosis in cattle.] Surto de pitiose cutânea em bovinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(12):583-587. Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, Camobi, Santa Maria, RS 97105-900, Brazil. E-mail: glaukommers@yahoo.com Seventy-six young mixed breed cattle of both sexes, presented multifocal ulcerated nodular cutaneous lesions localized in the medial and lateral aspects of fore and hindlimbs, ventral neck, sternum, and tail. The disease occurred during summer and lesions were observed on areas of the body which were in contact with water of irrigation channels for long periods. Histologically, there were multiple granulomas and pyogranulomas with few negative profiles of hyphae, which were better visualized throughout Grocott methenamine silver stain. Definitive etiologic diagnosis was based on immuno-histochemistry with anti-Pythium insidiosum polyclonal antibody. Additionally, an indirect ELISA test was performed. Bovine cutaneous pythiosis outbreaks are uncommon and, particularly as occurred in the cattle of this report, all affected animals had spontaneous healing within two to three weeks.

• Pythiosis Pythium insidiosum diseases of cattle immunohistochemistry ELISA test pathology

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Gabriel A.L., Kommers G.D., Trost M.E., Barros C.S.L., Pereira D.B., Schwendler S.E. & Santurio J.M. 2008. [Outbreak of cutaneous pythiosis in cattle.] Surto de pitiose cutânea em bovinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(12):583-587. Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, Camobi, Santa Maria, RS 97105-900, Brazil. E-mail: glaukommers@yahoo.com Seventy-six young mixed breed cattle of both sexes, presented multifocal ulcerated nodular cutaneous lesions localized in the medial and lateral aspects of fore and hindlimbs, ventral neck, sternum, and tail. The disease occurred during summer and lesions were observed on areas of the body which were in contact with water of irrigation channels for long periods. Histologically, there were multiple granulomas and pyogranulomas with few negative profiles of hyphae, which were better visualized throughout Grocott methenamine silver stain. Definitive etiologic diagnosis was based on immuno-histochemistry with anti-Pythium insidiosum polyclonal antibody. Additionally, an indirect ELISA test was performed. Bovine cutaneous pythiosis outbreaks are uncommon and, particularly as occurred in the cattle of this report, all affected animals had spontaneous healing within two to three weeks.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Rissi D.R., Pierezan F., Kommers G.D. & Barros C.S.L. 2008. [Occurrence of rabies in sheep in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.] Ocorrência de raiva em ovinos no Rio Grande do Sul. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(10):495-500. Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900 Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: claudioslbarros@uol.com.br Cases of rabies in sheep occurring in November 2003, in central Rio Grande do Sul state, Brazil, are described. A 3-month-old male, and a 2.5-month-old female sheep were affected. Clinical signs were characterized by abnormal gait, trembling, lateral recumbency, convulsion, opisthotonus, and fever. Histological findings included a non-suppurative myelomeningoencephalitis associated with intracytoplasmic eosinophilic inclusion (Negri) bodies in neurons. Lesions were predominantly observed in gray matter of the spinal cord, brainstem and cerebellum. There was non-suppurative Gasserian ganglionitis in one sheep in which this structure was examined. Immunohistochemistry using rabies virus ribonucleoprotein polyclonal antibody yelded positive result in brain tissue from both sheep. The cases herein reported occurred concomitantly to an outbreak of bat transmitted rabies in cattle in the same region and were considered, on epidemiological basis, to be transmitted by bats, as occurs in endemic bovine rabies in Rio Grande do Sul.

• Lyssavirus Rhabdoviridae rabies diseases of sheep immunohistochemistry neuropathology

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Rissi D.R., Pierezan F., Kommers G.D. & Barros C.S.L. 2008. [Occurrence of rabies in sheep in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.] Ocorrência de raiva em ovinos no Rio Grande do Sul. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(10):495-500. Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900 Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: claudioslbarros@uol.com.br Cases of rabies in sheep occurring in November 2003, in central Rio Grande do Sul state, Brazil, are described. A 3-month-old male, and a 2.5-month-old female sheep were affected. Clinical signs were characterized by abnormal gait, trembling, lateral recumbency, convulsion, opisthotonus, and fever. Histological findings included a non-suppurative myelomeningoencephalitis associated with intracytoplasmic eosinophilic inclusion (Negri) bodies in neurons. Lesions were predominantly observed in gray matter of the spinal cord, brainstem and cerebellum. There was non-suppurative Gasserian ganglionitis in one sheep in which this structure was examined. Immunohistochemistry using rabies virus ribonucleoprotein polyclonal antibody yelded positive result in brain tissue from both sheep. The cases herein reported occurred concomitantly to an outbreak of bat transmitted rabies in cattle in the same region and were considered, on epidemiological basis, to be transmitted by bats, as occurs in endemic bovine rabies in Rio Grande do Sul.