PESQUISA VETERINÁRIA BRASILEIRA

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Buim M.R., Mettifogo E., Timenetsky J., Kleven S. & Ferreira A.J.P. 2009. Epidemiological survey on Mycoplasma gallisepticum and M. synoviae by multiplex PCR in commercial poultry. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(7):552-556. Departamento de Patologia, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP 05508-900, Brazil. E-mail: ajpferr@usp.br Mycoplasmas are important avian pathogens, which cause respiratory and joint diseases that result in large economic losses in Brazilian and world-wide poultry industry. This investigation regarding the main species of mycoplasmas, Mycoplasma gallisepticum (MG) and M. synoviae (MS), responsible for the above mentioned conditions, was carried out through PCR Multiplex analysis. One thousand and forty-six (1,046) samples of tracheal swabs and piped embryos were collected from 33 farms with laying hens, breeders, broilers or hatchery, located in the Brazilian states of São Paulo, Paraná and Pernambuco, where respiratory problems or drops in egg production had occurred. The MG and MS prevalence on the farms was 72.7%. These results indicated (1) high dissemination of mycoplasmas in the evaluated farms, with predominance of MS, either as single infectious agent or associated with other mycoplasmas in 20 farms (60.6%), and (2) an increase of MS and decrease of MG infection in Brazilian commercial poultry.

• Mycoplasma gallisepticum M. synoviae PCR epidemiology chicken

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Buim M.R., Mettifogo E., Timenetsky J., Kleven S. & Ferreira A.J.P. 2009. Epidemiological survey on Mycoplasma gallisepticum and M. synoviae by multiplex PCR in commercial poultry. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(7):552-556. Departamento de Patologia, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP 05508-900, Brazil. E-mail: ajpferr@usp.br Mycoplasmas are important avian pathogens, which cause respiratory and joint diseases that result in large economic losses in Brazilian and world-wide poultry industry. This investigation regarding the main species of mycoplasmas, Mycoplasma gallisepticum (MG) and M. synoviae (MS), responsible for the above mentioned conditions, was carried out through PCR Multiplex analysis. One thousand and forty-six (1,046) samples of tracheal swabs and piped embryos were collected from 33 farms with laying hens, breeders, broilers or hatchery, located in the Brazilian states of São Paulo, Paraná and Pernambuco, where respiratory problems or drops in egg production had occurred. The MG and MS prevalence on the farms was 72.7%. These results indicated (1) high dissemination of mycoplasmas in the evaluated farms, with predominance of MS, either as single infectious agent or associated with other mycoplasmas in 20 farms (60.6%), and (2) an increase of MS and decrease of MG infection in Brazilian commercial poultry.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Fonteque J.H., Kohayagawa A., Takahira R.K., Bianchi E.H., Cherubini A.L., Piccinin A., Bruder E.M. & Ramos P.R.R. 2009. [Serum protein electrophoresis profile of the rattlesnake Crotalus durissus terrificus kept in captivity.] Perfil eletroforético das proteínas séricas de serpentes Crotalus durissus terrificus (cascavel) criadas em cativeiro. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(6):457-460. Departamento de Medicina Veterinária, Hospital de Clínica Veterinária, Centro de Ciências Agroveterinárias, Universidade do Estado de Santa Catarina, Av. Luiz de Camões 2090, Lages, SC 88520-000, Brazil. E-mail: fonteque@cav.udesc.br The poisonous snakes of the genera Crotalus and Bothrops have been kept in captivity with the purpose of extracting poison for the production of immunobiological. Knowledge of the physiology of these animals and serum proteins concentration changes are important for early identification of major diseases which lead to states of hypoproteinemia and hyperproteinemia. The objective was to determine the concentration of total protein and serum protein electrophoresis profile of Crotalus durissus terrificus (rattlesnake) in captivity. Blood samples were taken from the ventral coccygeal vein of 21 adult and healthy snakes divided into groups: Group 1 with 12 males, weighing in average 588.89±193.55g, and Group 2 with nine females, weighing in average 708.33±194.04g. The total serum concentration of protein was determined by the method of refractometry and agarose gel electrophoresis. The total protein values in the serum for females was 4.82±0.72, for males 4.51±0.50 and males and females 4.64±0.61, identified by four fractions (g/dL): albumin, a, b and g-globulin. Additionally the albumin/globulin ratio was calculated. The female snakes showed higher values for the variables, albumin and the albumin/globulin (AG) differed significantly (P<0.05) from the group of male snakes, but there was no clinical significance.

• Protein fractions albumin alpha beta and gamma-globulin sex agarose gel

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Fonteque J.H., Kohayagawa A., Takahira R.K., Bianchi E.H., Cherubini A.L., Piccinin A., Bruder E.M. & Ramos P.R.R. 2009. [Serum protein electrophoresis profile of the rattlesnake Crotalus durissus terrificus kept in captivity.] Perfil eletroforético das proteínas séricas de serpentes Crotalus durissus terrificus (cascavel) criadas em cativeiro. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(6):457-460. Departamento de Medicina Veterinária, Hospital de Clínica Veterinária, Centro de Ciências Agroveterinárias, Universidade do Estado de Santa Catarina, Av. Luiz de Camões 2090, Lages, SC 88520-000, Brazil. E-mail: fonteque@cav.udesc.br The poisonous snakes of the genera Crotalus and Bothrops have been kept in captivity with the purpose of extracting poison for the production of immunobiological. Knowledge of the physiology of these animals and serum proteins concentration changes are important for early identification of major diseases which lead to states of hypoproteinemia and hyperproteinemia. The objective was to determine the concentration of total protein and serum protein electrophoresis profile of Crotalus durissus terrificus (rattlesnake) in captivity. Blood samples were taken from the ventral coccygeal vein of 21 adult and healthy snakes divided into groups: Group 1 with 12 males, weighing in average 588.89±193.55g, and Group 2 with nine females, weighing in average 708.33±194.04g. The total serum concentration of protein was determined by the method of refractometry and agarose gel electrophoresis. The total protein values in the serum for females was 4.82±0.72, for males 4.51±0.50 and males and females 4.64±0.61, identified by four fractions (g/dL): albumin, a, b and g-globulin. Additionally the albumin/globulin ratio was calculated. The female snakes showed higher values for the variables, albumin and the albumin/globulin (AG) differed significantly (P<0.05) from the group of male snakes, but there was no clinical significance.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Cavallini Sanches E.M., Pacheco S.M., Cericatto A.S., Melo R.M., Colodel E.M., Hummel J., Bianchi S.P., Spanamberg A., Santurio J.M. & Ferreiro L. 2009. Detection of Pneumocystis in lungs of bats from Brazil by PCR amplification. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(6):469-473. Setor de Micologia Veterinária, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Av. Bento Gonçalves 9090, Porto Alegre, RS 90540-000, Brazil. E-mail: cavallini.sanches@ufrgs.br Pneumocystis has been isolated from a wide range of unrelated mammalian hosts, including humans, domestic and wild animals. It has been demonstrated that the genome of Pneumocystis of one host differs markedly from that of other hosts. Also, variation in the chromosome and DNA sequence of Pneumocystis within a single host species has been observed. Since information about the occurrence and nature of infections in wild animals is still limited, the objective of this work was to detect the presence of Pneumocystis sp. in lungs of bats from two states from Brazil by Nested-PCR amplification. The bats, captured in caves and in urban areas, were obtained from the Program of Rabies Control of two States in Brazil, Mato Grosso and Rio Grande do Sul, located in the Mid-Western and Southern regions of the country, respectively. DNAs were extracted from 102 lung tissues and screened for Pneumocystis by nested PCR at the mtLSU rRNA gene and small subunit of mitochondrial ribosomal RNA (mtSSU rRNA). Gene amplification was performed using the mtLSU rRNA, the primer set pAZ102H - pAZ102E and pAZ102X - pAZY, and the mtSSU rRNA primer set pAZ102 10FRI - pAZ102 10R-RI and pAZ102 13RI - pAZ102 14RI. The most frequent bats were Tadarida brasiliensis (25), Desmodus rotundus (20), and Nyctinomops laticaudatus (19). Pneumocystis was more prevalent in the species Nyctinomops laticaudatus (26.3% = 5/19), Tadarida brasiliensis (24% = 6/25), and Desmodus rotundus (20% = 4/20). Besides these species, Pneumocystis also was detected in lungs from Molossus molossus (1/11, 9.1%), Artibeus fimbriatus (1/1, 100%), Sturnira lilium (1/3, 33.3%), Myotis levis (2/3, 66.7%) and Diphylla ecaudata (1/2, 50%). PCR products which could indicate the presence of Pneumocystis (21.56%) were identified in DNA samples obtained from 8 out of 16 classified species from both states (5 bats were not identified). This is the first report of detection of Pneumocystis in bats from Brazil.

• Pneumocystis sp. bats Nested-PCR

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Cavallini Sanches E.M., Pacheco S.M., Cericatto A.S., Melo R.M., Colodel E.M., Hummel J., Bianchi S.P., Spanamberg A., Santurio J.M. & Ferreiro L. 2009. Detection of Pneumocystis in lungs of bats from Brazil by PCR amplification. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(6):469-473. Setor de Micologia Veterinária, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Av. Bento Gonçalves 9090, Porto Alegre, RS 90540-000, Brazil. E-mail: cavallini.sanches@ufrgs.br Pneumocystis has been isolated from a wide range of unrelated mammalian hosts, including humans, domestic and wild animals. It has been demonstrated that the genome of Pneumocystis of one host differs markedly from that of other hosts. Also, variation in the chromosome and DNA sequence of Pneumocystis within a single host species has been observed. Since information about the occurrence and nature of infections in wild animals is still limited, the objective of this work was to detect the presence of Pneumocystis sp. in lungs of bats from two states from Brazil by Nested-PCR amplification. The bats, captured in caves and in urban areas, were obtained from the Program of Rabies Control of two States in Brazil, Mato Grosso and Rio Grande do Sul, located in the Mid-Western and Southern regions of the country, respectively. DNAs were extracted from 102 lung tissues and screened for Pneumocystis by nested PCR at the mtLSU rRNA gene and small subunit of mitochondrial ribosomal RNA (mtSSU rRNA). Gene amplification was performed using the mtLSU rRNA, the primer set pAZ102H - pAZ102E and pAZ102X - pAZY, and the mtSSU rRNA primer set pAZ102 10FRI - pAZ102 10R-RI and pAZ102 13RI - pAZ102 14RI. The most frequent bats were Tadarida brasiliensis (25), Desmodus rotundus (20), and Nyctinomops laticaudatus (19). Pneumocystis was more prevalent in the species Nyctinomops laticaudatus (26.3% = 5/19), Tadarida brasiliensis (24% = 6/25), and Desmodus rotundus (20% = 4/20). Besides these species, Pneumocystis also was detected in lungs from Molossus molossus (1/11, 9.1%), Artibeus fimbriatus (1/1, 100%), Sturnira lilium (1/3, 33.3%), Myotis levis (2/3, 66.7%) and Diphylla ecaudata (1/2, 50%). PCR products which could indicate the presence of Pneumocystis (21.56%) were identified in DNA samples obtained from 8 out of 16 classified species from both states (5 bats were not identified). This is the first report of detection of Pneumocystis in bats from Brazil.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Filoni C., Pena H.F.J., Gennari S.M., Cristo D.S., Torres L.N. & Catão-Dias J.L. 2009. Heartworm (Dirofilaria immitis) disease in a Brazilian oncilla (Leopardus tigrinus). Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(6):373-478. Departamento de Patologia, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Prof. Dr. Orlando Marques de Paiva 87, Cidade Universitária, São Paulo, SP 05508-270, Brazil. E-mail: claudiafiloni@triade.org.br Heartworm disease is caused by the intravascular nematode Dirofilaria immitis, a pathogen of public health importance usually associated to domestic dogs and cats, and to a lesser extend to other mammal species. The oncilla (Leopardus tigrinus) is a threatened neotropic felid species that naturally occurs in Brazil. Here, we report the encounter of adult and larval stages of heartworms in a female specimen of L. tigrinus, probable of free-ranging origin, from Ubatuba, São Paulo, Brazil, which died showing clinical signals compatible with heartworm disease. This was the first reported case of D. immitis infection and associated disease in L. tigrinus, also suggesting that the oncilla acted as a definitive host for this parasite. The present findings confirmed D. immitis as a pathogenic agent for this felid species, thus supporting the recommendation for the inclusion of diagnostic testing for this pathogen in routine health screening procedures for captive and free-ranging oncillas in Brazil, especially in those localities where climate conditions support the occurrence of the parasite. Potential reservoirs as oncillas are established beyond the reach of veterinary care, thus representing a continuing risk for domestic animals and humans acquiring heartworm infection. We encourage further serologic and molecular studies aiming to establish D. immitis prevalences in L. tigrinus and other wild carnivores in the region of Ubatuba, as well as ecological and veterinary studies to access the role of this pathogen for the survival of this threatened felid species.

• Dirofilaria immitis heartworm disease Leopardus tigrinus neotropic felid Brazil

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Filoni C., Pena H.F.J., Gennari S.M., Cristo D.S., Torres L.N. & Catão-Dias J.L. 2009. Heartworm (Dirofilaria immitis) disease in a Brazilian oncilla (Leopardus tigrinus). Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(6):373-478. Departamento de Patologia, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Prof. Dr. Orlando Marques de Paiva 87, Cidade Universitária, São Paulo, SP 05508-270, Brazil. E-mail: claudiafiloni@triade.org.br Heartworm disease is caused by the intravascular nematode Dirofilaria immitis, a pathogen of public health importance usually associated to domestic dogs and cats, and to a lesser extend to other mammal species. The oncilla (Leopardus tigrinus) is a threatened neotropic felid species that naturally occurs in Brazil. Here, we report the encounter of adult and larval stages of heartworms in a female specimen of L. tigrinus, probable of free-ranging origin, from Ubatuba, São Paulo, Brazil, which died showing clinical signals compatible with heartworm disease. This was the first reported case of D. immitis infection and associated disease in L. tigrinus, also suggesting that the oncilla acted as a definitive host for this parasite. The present findings confirmed D. immitis as a pathogenic agent for this felid species, thus supporting the recommendation for the inclusion of diagnostic testing for this pathogen in routine health screening procedures for captive and free-ranging oncillas in Brazil, especially in those localities where climate conditions support the occurrence of the parasite. Potential reservoirs as oncillas are established beyond the reach of veterinary care, thus representing a continuing risk for domestic animals and humans acquiring heartworm infection. We encourage further serologic and molecular studies aiming to establish D. immitis prevalences in L. tigrinus and other wild carnivores in the region of Ubatuba, as well as ecological and veterinary studies to access the role of this pathogen for the survival of this threatened felid species.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Rangel P. & Marin J.M. 2009. Analysis of Escherichia coli isolated from bovine mastitic milk. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(5):363-368. Departamento de Morfologia, Estomatologia e Fisiologia, Faculdade de Odontologia de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Avenida do Café s/n, Campus USP, Ribeirão Preto, SP 14040-904, Brazil. E-mail: jmmarin@forp.usp.br Mastitis has been recognized for some time as the most costly disease in dairy herds. From February to November 2004, 670 samples of bovine mastitic milk from which 231 Escherichia coli strains were isolated, were collected from two Brazilian states. The strains were screened for the presence of Shiga toxin-producing (stx 1 and stx 2) and intimin (eae) genes. Twenty (8.6%) strains were detected by PCR to harbor the Shiga toxin genes (8 the stx 1 gene, 12 the stx 2 gene and none both of them). Two (0.8%) of the Escherichia coli strains studied were eae positive non Shiga toxin-producing. The strains were also examined for resistance to 12 antimicrobial agents. The predominantly observed resistance was to tetracycline (92.2%), streptomycin (90.4%), nalidixic acid (88.3%), amikacin (86.5%) and cephalothin (84.8%). Multidrug resistance was found among 152 isolates (65.8%).

• Escherichia coli mastitis antimicrobial agents multidrug resistance eae gene mastite agentes antimicrobianos resistência a antimicrobianos gene eae.

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Rangel P. & Marin J.M. 2009. Analysis of Escherichia coli isolated from bovine mastitic milk. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(5):363-368. Departamento de Morfologia, Estomatologia e Fisiologia, Faculdade de Odontologia de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Avenida do Café s/n, Campus USP, Ribeirão Preto, SP 14040-904, Brazil. E-mail: jmmarin@forp.usp.br Mastitis has been recognized for some time as the most costly disease in dairy herds. From February to November 2004, 670 samples of bovine mastitic milk from which 231 Escherichia coli strains were isolated, were collected from two Brazilian states. The strains were screened for the presence of Shiga toxin-producing (stx 1 and stx 2) and intimin (eae) genes. Twenty (8.6%) strains were detected by PCR to harbor the Shiga toxin genes (8 the stx 1 gene, 12 the stx 2 gene and none both of them). Two (0.8%) of the Escherichia coli strains studied were eae positive non Shiga toxin-producing. The strains were also examined for resistance to 12 antimicrobial agents. The predominantly observed resistance was to tetracycline (92.2%), streptomycin (90.4%), nalidixic acid (88.3%), amikacin (86.5%) and cephalothin (84.8%). Multidrug resistance was found among 152 isolates (65.8%).

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Figueiredo A.O., Pellegrin A.O., Gonçalves V.S.P., Freitas E.B., Monteiro L.A.R.C., Oliveira J.M. & Osório A.L.A.R. 2009. [Prevalence and risk factors for bovine leptospirosis in Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil.] Prevalência e fatores de risco para a leptospirose em bovinos do Mato Grosso do Sul. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(5):375-381. Programa Mestrado em Ciência Animal, Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso do Sul, Campo Grande, MS 79070-900, Brazil. E-mail: line_figueiredo@yahoo.com.br The prevalence of anti-Leptospira spp. antibodies was estimated for female cattle aged 24 months or older. The sample comprised 178 herds from 22 counties in the state of Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil. The risk factors associated with the presence of infeccion were investigated. A total of 2,573 blood serum samples were tested against 10 leptospira serovars using the microagglutination test (MAT). Titers of 100 or higher for one or more serovars were detected in 1,801 females (98.8%) from 161 herds (96.5%). Serovar Hardjo (65.6%) was the most frequent, followed by serovar Wolffi (12.3%). These results suggest that bovine leptospirosis is widespread in all the counties under study, with a high prevalence both at the animal and the herd level. Beef farms and the Zebu breed were associated to the higher risk of herd infection by leptospiras.

• Leptospirosis Leptospirose

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Figueiredo A.O., Pellegrin A.O., Gonçalves V.S.P., Freitas E.B., Monteiro L.A.R.C., Oliveira J.M. & Osório A.L.A.R. 2009. [Prevalence and risk factors for bovine leptospirosis in Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil.] Prevalência e fatores de risco para a leptospirose em bovinos do Mato Grosso do Sul. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(5):375-381. Programa Mestrado em Ciência Animal, Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso do Sul, Campo Grande, MS 79070-900, Brazil. E-mail: line_figueiredo@yahoo.com.br The prevalence of anti-Leptospira spp. antibodies was estimated for female cattle aged 24 months or older. The sample comprised 178 herds from 22 counties in the state of Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil. The risk factors associated with the presence of infeccion were investigated. A total of 2,573 blood serum samples were tested against 10 leptospira serovars using the microagglutination test (MAT). Titers of 100 or higher for one or more serovars were detected in 1,801 females (98.8%) from 161 herds (96.5%). Serovar Hardjo (65.6%) was the most frequent, followed by serovar Wolffi (12.3%). These results suggest that bovine leptospirosis is widespread in all the counties under study, with a high prevalence both at the animal and the herd level. Beef farms and the Zebu breed were associated to the higher risk of herd infection by leptospiras.

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.- Câmara A.C.L., Afonso J.A.B., Costa N.A., Mendonça C.L. & Souza M.I. 2009. [Primary abomasal impaction in 14 cattle from Pernambuco State, northeastern Brazil.] Compactação primária do abomaso em 14 bovinos no Estado de Pernambuco. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(5):387-394. Clínica de Bovinos, Campus Garanhuns, Universidade Federal Rural de Pernambuco, Av. Bom Pastor s/n, Cx. Postal 152, Mundaú, Garanhuns, PE 55292-901, Brazil. E-mail: aclcamara@yahoo.com.br Despite the frequent use of dry and fibrous roughage for feeding cows in many regions, especially during the dry season, impaction of the abomasum has been poorly reported in Brazil, probably because the condition is misdiagnosed by practitioners. The present paper aimed to accomplish a retrospective study on primary abomasal impaction in 14 cattle from Pernambuco State, northeastern Brazil. Eight moderate cases, without severe abdominal distention and with no rumen compaction, were treated conservatively, and four severe cases, with severe abdominal distention and rumen compaction, were treated surgically. One bull was slaughtered and one cow died without treatment. The greater number of abomasal impaction cases was in Holstein cows with six cases (42.9%), followed by crossbred cattle with five cases (35.8%), and the breeds Brown-Swiss, Nelore and Marchigiana, each with one case (21.3%). The food composition was characterized by low quality fibers and varied greatly among cases. Most frequent clinical signs were apathy, dehydration, hypomotility and ruminal bloat, intestinal hypomotility and scanty or absent feces with mucus. The hematological findings revealed leukocytosis with neutrophilia and hyperfibrinogenemia in most cases. Ruminal fluid analysis showed compromised flora and fauna dynamics and increased chlorine ion concentration. Clinical (4/8) and chirurgical (2/4) recovery rate achieved 50%. The clinical and chirurgical methods remain as viable options for the treatment of light and severe impaction, but the prognosis is always reserved especially when associated to late pregnancy.

• Impaction vagal indigestion Compactação indigestão vagal

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Câmara A.C.L., Afonso J.A.B., Costa N.A., Mendonça C.L. & Souza M.I. 2009. [Primary abomasal impaction in 14 cattle from Pernambuco State, northeastern Brazil.] Compactação primária do abomaso em 14 bovinos no Estado de Pernambuco. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(5):387-394. Clínica de Bovinos, Campus Garanhuns, Universidade Federal Rural de Pernambuco, Av. Bom Pastor s/n, Cx. Postal 152, Mundaú, Garanhuns, PE 55292-901, Brazil. E-mail: aclcamara@yahoo.com.br Despite the frequent use of dry and fibrous roughage for feeding cows in many regions, especially during the dry season, impaction of the abomasum has been poorly reported in Brazil, probably because the condition is misdiagnosed by practitioners. The present paper aimed to accomplish a retrospective study on primary abomasal impaction in 14 cattle from Pernambuco State, northeastern Brazil. Eight moderate cases, without severe abdominal distention and with no rumen compaction, were treated conservatively, and four severe cases, with severe abdominal distention and rumen compaction, were treated surgically. One bull was slaughtered and one cow died without treatment. The greater number of abomasal impaction cases was in Holstein cows with six cases (42.9%), followed by crossbred cattle with five cases (35.8%), and the breeds Brown-Swiss, Nelore and Marchigiana, each with one case (21.3%). The food composition was characterized by low quality fibers and varied greatly among cases. Most frequent clinical signs were apathy, dehydration, hypomotility and ruminal bloat, intestinal hypomotility and scanty or absent feces with mucus. The hematological findings revealed leukocytosis with neutrophilia and hyperfibrinogenemia in most cases. Ruminal fluid analysis showed compromised flora and fauna dynamics and increased chlorine ion concentration. Clinical (4/8) and chirurgical (2/4) recovery rate achieved 50%. The clinical and chirurgical methods remain as viable options for the treatment of light and severe impaction, but the prognosis is always reserved especially when associated to late pregnancy.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Dalto A.G.C., Bandarra P.M., Pedroso P.M., Guagnini F.S., Leal J.S., Raymundo D.L., Driemeier D. 2009. [Leguminous bloat in dairy cattle on Trifolium spp. pastures.] Timpanismo espumoso em bovinos leiteiros em pastagens de Trifolium sp. (Leg.Caesalpinoideae). Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(5):401-403. Setor de Patologia Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Av. Bento Gonçalves 9090, Agronomia, Porto Alegre, RS 91540-000, Brazil. E-mail: davetpat@ufrgs.br Leguminous bloat may occur in cattle which graze pastures consisting of lush forages. In a dairy farm located on the municipality of São Francisco de Paula, Rio Grande do Sul, eight out of 66 cows died suddenly after being transferred to a paddock whose pastures were composed of Trifolium repens and Trifolium pratense. Animals were found dead in the morning of the next day after being transferred; no clinical signs were noticed. Main gross findings included enhanced abdominal volume, protrusion and congestion of the tongue and vagina, ruminal distension, pale liver, and enhanced spleen. Histologically, there were lung congestion and edema, and splenic lymphoid hyperplasia. The evidence of leguminous forages consumption associated with the pathological findings and the absence of growth on bacteriology confirmed the diagnosis.

• Bloat Trifolium pratense Trifolium repens Timpanismo Trifolium pratense Trifolium repens Leguminosae Caesalpinoideae

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Dalto A.G.C., Bandarra P.M., Pedroso P.M., Guagnini F.S., Leal J.S., Raymundo D.L., Driemeier D. 2009. [Leguminous bloat in dairy cattle on Trifolium spp. pastures.] Timpanismo espumoso em bovinos leiteiros em pastagens de Trifolium sp. (Leg.Caesalpinoideae). Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(5):401-403. Setor de Patologia Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Av. Bento Gonçalves 9090, Agronomia, Porto Alegre, RS 91540-000, Brazil. E-mail: davetpat@ufrgs.br Leguminous bloat may occur in cattle which graze pastures consisting of lush forages. In a dairy farm located on the municipality of São Francisco de Paula, Rio Grande do Sul, eight out of 66 cows died suddenly after being transferred to a paddock whose pastures were composed of Trifolium repens and Trifolium pratense. Animals were found dead in the morning of the next day after being transferred; no clinical signs were noticed. Main gross findings included enhanced abdominal volume, protrusion and congestion of the tongue and vagina, ruminal distension, pale liver, and enhanced spleen. Histologically, there were lung congestion and edema, and splenic lymphoid hyperplasia. The evidence of leguminous forages consumption associated with the pathological findings and the absence of growth on bacteriology confirmed the diagnosis.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Alda J.L., Sallis E.S.V., Nogueira C.E.W., Soares M.P., Amaral L., Marcolongo-Pereira C., Frey Jr F. & Schild A.L. 2009. [Spontaneous Baccharis coridifolia (Compositae) poisoning in horses in southern Brazil.] Intoxicação espontânea por Baccharis coridifolia (Compositae) em eqüinos no Rio Grande do Sul. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(5):409-414. Laboratório Regional de Diagnóstico, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Campus Universitário s/n, Pelotas, RS 96010-900, Brazil. E-mail: alschild@terra.com.br An outbreak of spontaneous Baccharis coridifolia poisoning in horses in July 2008 is reported from southern Brazil. The poisoning affected three mares out of four that were transported from the state of Paraná to a farm in the municipality of Acegua, Rio Grande do Sul, and occurred 3 days after arrival of the animals in a paddock with sprouting B. coridifolia. The fourth mare introduced to another paddock without B. coridifolia was not affected. The mares had received only one third of the concentrate ration previously ingested and stayed during the night in a stall. Clinical signs were abdominal discomfort, increased cardiac and respiratory rate, anorexia, hypermotility of the gut, cecal tympany, and diarrhea. The clinical course was of 18-36 hours. One affected mare survived after symptomatic treatment. Gross lesions were severe congestion, hemorrhages, edema and ulcers of the glandular stomach. Congestion, edema and hemorrhages were also observed in ileum, cecum and large colon. Histologic examination revealed degeneration and necrosis of the aglandular epithelium of the stomach, gastritis and enteritis with infiltration by mononuclear cells and neutrophils, edema of the mucosa, and dilatation of lymphatic vessels. One horse was poisoned experimentally with 1g/kg body weight of B. coridifolia. Clinical signs and lesions were similar to those observed in the spontaneous cases.

• Baccharis coridifolia poisonous plants diseases of horses plant poisoning Compositae Plantas tóxicas intoxicação por plantas

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Alda J.L., Sallis E.S.V., Nogueira C.E.W., Soares M.P., Amaral L., Marcolongo-Pereira C., Frey Jr F. & Schild A.L. 2009. [Spontaneous Baccharis coridifolia (Compositae) poisoning in horses in southern Brazil.] Intoxicação espontânea por Baccharis coridifolia (Compositae) em eqüinos no Rio Grande do Sul. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 29(5):409-414. Laboratório Regional de Diagnóstico, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Pelotas, Campus Universitário s/n, Pelotas, RS 96010-900, Brazil. E-mail: alschild@terra.com.br An outbreak of spontaneous Baccharis coridifolia poisoning in horses in July 2008 is reported from southern Brazil. The poisoning affected three mares out of four that were transported from the state of Paraná to a farm in the municipality of Acegua, Rio Grande do Sul, and occurred 3 days after arrival of the animals in a paddock with sprouting B. coridifolia. The fourth mare introduced to another paddock without B. coridifolia was not affected. The mares had received only one third of the concentrate ration previously ingested and stayed during the night in a stall. Clinical signs were abdominal discomfort, increased cardiac and respiratory rate, anorexia, hypermotility of the gut, cecal tympany, and diarrhea. The clinical course was of 18-36 hours. One affected mare survived after symptomatic treatment. Gross lesions were severe congestion, hemorrhages, edema and ulcers of the glandular stomach. Congestion, edema and hemorrhages were also observed in ileum, cecum and large colon. Histologic examination revealed degeneration and necrosis of the aglandular epithelium of the stomach, gastritis and enteritis with infiltration by mononuclear cells and neutrophils, edema of the mucosa, and dilatation of lymphatic vessels. One horse was poisoned experimentally with 1g/kg body weight of B. coridifolia. Clinical signs and lesions were similar to those observed in the spontaneous cases.