PESQUISA VETERINÁRIA BRASILEIRA

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Iamaguti L.S., Brandão C.V.S., Pellizzon C.H., Ranzani J.J.T. & Minto B.W. 2008. [Histological and morphometric analysis for the use of a biosynthetic cellulose membrane in experimental trochleopasty.] Análises histológica e morfométrica do uso de membrana biossintética de celulose em trocleoplastia experimental de cães. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(4):195-200. Departamento de Cirurgia e Anestesiologia, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Campus de Botucatu, Distrito de Rubião Jr s/n, Botucatu, SP 18.618-000, Brazil. E-mail: iamaguti_lu@hotmail.com The aim of this study was to evaluate the use of a locally made biosynthetic cellulose membrane after experimental trochleoplasty, in order to verify whether its use could support migration of chondrogenic cells. Twelve male and female adult healthy dogs and without claudication were used. All dogs were submitted to trochleoplasty in both pelvic limbs after sedation and epidural anesthesia. In the left hind limb, the biosynthetic cellulose membrane was fixed with simple suture using Polyglactin 910 6-0 after performing trochleoplasty (treated group); whereas in the right limb (control group) only trochleoplasty was performed. The dogs were subdivided into 4 subgroups for postoperative evaluation at 15, 30, 60 and 90 days post-surgery. Biopsy was performed after exploratory arthrotomy for histopathologic and morfometric evaluation. At 30 and 60 days post-surgery, more condrocyte-like cells of immature aspect were observed in lesions treated with the cellulose membrane. At 90 days post-surgery the reparative tissue was characterized as mature fibrocartilage-like tissue without difference between the groups. In the control group there was a progressive increase of the number of cells until the end of the evaluation period. Otherwise, when compared to the initial period (15 days), there was an increase in the number of cells until 60 days, followed by a return the initial values at 90 days in the treated group. In comparison to controls, the number of cells was greater in the treated group from 15 to 60 days. Initially, the neoformed repair tissue was thicker in the treated group. From the results of this study, it was concluded that the cellulose membrane shortened the initial tissue repair process in the trochleoplasty area, showing good integration of the neoformed tissue with the adjacent cartilage.

• Sulcoplasty physical barrier guided tissue regeneration dog

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Iamaguti L.S., Brandão C.V.S., Pellizzon C.H., Ranzani J.J.T. & Minto B.W. 2008. [Histological and morphometric analysis for the use of a biosynthetic cellulose membrane in experimental trochleopasty.] Análises histológica e morfométrica do uso de membrana biossintética de celulose em trocleoplastia experimental de cães. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(4):195-200. Departamento de Cirurgia e Anestesiologia, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Campus de Botucatu, Distrito de Rubião Jr s/n, Botucatu, SP 18.618-000, Brazil. E-mail: iamaguti_lu@hotmail.com The aim of this study was to evaluate the use of a locally made biosynthetic cellulose membrane after experimental trochleoplasty, in order to verify whether its use could support migration of chondrogenic cells. Twelve male and female adult healthy dogs and without claudication were used. All dogs were submitted to trochleoplasty in both pelvic limbs after sedation and epidural anesthesia. In the left hind limb, the biosynthetic cellulose membrane was fixed with simple suture using Polyglactin 910 6-0 after performing trochleoplasty (treated group); whereas in the right limb (control group) only trochleoplasty was performed. The dogs were subdivided into 4 subgroups for postoperative evaluation at 15, 30, 60 and 90 days post-surgery. Biopsy was performed after exploratory arthrotomy for histopathologic and morfometric evaluation. At 30 and 60 days post-surgery, more condrocyte-like cells of immature aspect were observed in lesions treated with the cellulose membrane. At 90 days post-surgery the reparative tissue was characterized as mature fibrocartilage-like tissue without difference between the groups. In the control group there was a progressive increase of the number of cells until the end of the evaluation period. Otherwise, when compared to the initial period (15 days), there was an increase in the number of cells until 60 days, followed by a return the initial values at 90 days in the treated group. In comparison to controls, the number of cells was greater in the treated group from 15 to 60 days. Initially, the neoformed repair tissue was thicker in the treated group. From the results of this study, it was concluded that the cellulose membrane shortened the initial tissue repair process in the trochleoplasty area, showing good integration of the neoformed tissue with the adjacent cartilage.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Romano L., Ferrígno C.R.A., Ferraz,V.C.M. Della Nina M., Ito K.C. 2008. [Evaluation of the use of interlocking nail and transcortical blockade for the repair of diaphyseal fractures of the femur in cats.] Avaliação do uso de haste bloqueada e bloqueio transcortical no reparo de fraturas diafisárias de fêmur em felinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(4):201-206. Departamento de Cirurgia do Hospital Veterinário, 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: lromano@usp.br Interlocking nails allow rigid fracture stabilization and present biomechanical advantages when compared to other immobilization techniques. It acts along the central mechanical axis of the bone and preserves biological concept standards for osteosynthesis. The use of interlocking nail in cats is limited because the intramedullary space is relatively small for the available nail sizes. We reported 10 cases of cats that had simple or multiple closed fractures of the femoral diaphysis. The animals weighed 3.5 to 5 kg , which allowed using nails of 4.0mm and 4.7mm in diameter. For the nail insertion, retrograde and normograde routs were used, and four 2mm titanium screws were used to lock all the perforations. No trans-surgical complication occurred, however, due to a new trauma, one of the animals suffered femoral neck fracture and transversal distal fracture to the nail, three days after surgery. Radiographies were made up to four months after surgery, and in most cases secondary bone formation was seen, showing bone consolidation in 61-89 days, excluding the animal who suffered new trauma, who presented bone healing in 150 days. Clinically, occasional lameness occurred; however, except for the animal that had new trauma, all animals initiated adequate limb support in 3 to 8 days after surgery. In conclusion, the use of 4.0mm and 4.7mm interlocking nails in felines was adequate, with bone healing in all cases, and also return of good limb function after surgery.

• Fractures interlocking nail surgery cats

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Romano L., Ferrígno C.R.A., Ferraz,V.C.M. Della Nina M., Ito K.C. 2008. [Evaluation of the use of interlocking nail and transcortical blockade for the repair of diaphyseal fractures of the femur in cats.] Avaliação do uso de haste bloqueada e bloqueio transcortical no reparo de fraturas diafisárias de fêmur em felinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(4):201-206. Departamento de Cirurgia do Hospital Veterinário, 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: lromano@usp.br Interlocking nails allow rigid fracture stabilization and present biomechanical advantages when compared to other immobilization techniques. It acts along the central mechanical axis of the bone and preserves biological concept standards for osteosynthesis. The use of interlocking nail in cats is limited because the intramedullary space is relatively small for the available nail sizes. We reported 10 cases of cats that had simple or multiple closed fractures of the femoral diaphysis. The animals weighed 3.5 to 5 kg , which allowed using nails of 4.0mm and 4.7mm in diameter. For the nail insertion, retrograde and normograde routs were used, and four 2mm titanium screws were used to lock all the perforations. No trans-surgical complication occurred, however, due to a new trauma, one of the animals suffered femoral neck fracture and transversal distal fracture to the nail, three days after surgery. Radiographies were made up to four months after surgery, and in most cases secondary bone formation was seen, showing bone consolidation in 61-89 days, excluding the animal who suffered new trauma, who presented bone healing in 150 days. Clinically, occasional lameness occurred; however, except for the animal that had new trauma, all animals initiated adequate limb support in 3 to 8 days after surgery. In conclusion, the use of 4.0mm and 4.7mm interlocking nails in felines was adequate, with bone healing in all cases, and also return of good limb function after surgery.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Zuccari D.A.P.C., Pavam M.V., Terzian A.C.B., Pereira R.S., Ruiz C.M. & Andrade J.C.† 2008. Immunohistochemical evaluation of Ki-67 and PCNA in canine mammary neoplasias: Correlation with prognostic factors and clinical outcome. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(4):207-215. Centro Regional de Bioterismo, FAMERP, Av. Brigadeiro Faria Lima 5416, São José do Rio Preto, SP 15090-000, Brazil. E-mail: debora.zuccari@famerp.br E-cadherin is a cell-cell adhesion molecule and low e-cadherin expression is related to invasiveness and may indicate a bad prognosis in mammary neoplasms. The expression of cell proliferation markers PCNA and especially Ki-67, has also proved to have a strong prognostic value in this tumor class. The expression of these markers was related to the clinical-pathological characteristics of 73 surgically removed mammary tumors in female dogs by immunohistochemistry. There was no statistical correlation between these markers and death by neoplasm, survival time and disease-free interval. However, the loss of e-cadherin expression and marked Ki-67 expression (p=0.016) were considered statistically significant for the diagnosis (p=0.032). When evaluated as independent factors, there was evidence of the relationship between the loss of e-cadherin expression and high PCNA expression with changes in the body status (divided into obese, normal and cachectic) of female dogs (p=0.030); there was also evidence of the relationship between pseudopregnancy and e-cadherin alone (p=0.021) and for ulceration and PCNA alone (p=0.035). The significant correlation between the markers expression and these well known prognostic factors used individually or in combination suggests their prognostic value in canine mammary tumors.

• Canine cell proliferation marker e-cadherin immunohistochemistry mammary neoplasm

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Zuccari D.A.P.C., Pavam M.V., Terzian A.C.B., Pereira R.S., Ruiz C.M. & Andrade J.C.† 2008. Immunohistochemical evaluation of Ki-67 and PCNA in canine mammary neoplasias: Correlation with prognostic factors and clinical outcome. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(4):207-215. Centro Regional de Bioterismo, FAMERP, Av. Brigadeiro Faria Lima 5416, São José do Rio Preto, SP 15090-000, Brazil. E-mail: debora.zuccari@famerp.br E-cadherin is a cell-cell adhesion molecule and low e-cadherin expression is related to invasiveness and may indicate a bad prognosis in mammary neoplasms. The expression of cell proliferation markers PCNA and especially Ki-67, has also proved to have a strong prognostic value in this tumor class. The expression of these markers was related to the clinical-pathological characteristics of 73 surgically removed mammary tumors in female dogs by immunohistochemistry. There was no statistical correlation between these markers and death by neoplasm, survival time and disease-free interval. However, the loss of e-cadherin expression and marked Ki-67 expression (p=0.016) were considered statistically significant for the diagnosis (p=0.032). When evaluated as independent factors, there was evidence of the relationship between the loss of e-cadherin expression and high PCNA expression with changes in the body status (divided into obese, normal and cachectic) of female dogs (p=0.030); there was also evidence of the relationship between pseudopregnancy and e-cadherin alone (p=0.021) and for ulceration and PCNA alone (p=0.035). The significant correlation between the markers expression and these well known prognostic factors used individually or in combination suggests their prognostic value in canine mammary tumors.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Fighera R.A., Souza T.M., Silva M.C., Brum J.S., Graça D.L., Kommers G.D., Irigoyen L.F. & Barros C.S.L. 2008. [Causes of death and reasons for euthanasia in dogs from the midland region of the Midwest of Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazil (1965-2004).] Causas de morte e razões para eutanásia de cães da Mesorregião do Centro Ocidental Rio-Grandense (1965-2004). Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(4):223-230. Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900 Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: anemiaveterinaria@yahoo.com.br The main objective of this study was to investigate the prevalence of diseases culminating with death or motivating euthanasia of dogs from the midland region of the Midwest of Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazil. The necropsy files of the Laboratório de Patologia Veterinária (LPV) of the Universidade Federal de Santa Maria (UFSM) were accessed and necropsy protocols of dogs necropsied between January 1965 and December 2004 were reviewed. During this period 4,844 reports of canine necropsies were filed at the LPV-UFSM. The case distribution in relation to the disease categories diagnosed was as follows: infectious and parasitic diseases (1,693 [35.0%]); neoplasms (378 [7.8%]); disorders caused by physical agents (369 [7.6%]); degenerative diseases (342 [7.1%]); poisonings and toxinfections (112 [2.3%]); euthanasia due to convenience (101 [2.1%]); metabolic and endocrinological diseases (97 [2.0%]); iatrogenic disorders (83 [1.7%]); developmental disorders (25 [0.5%]); immune mediate diseases (10 [0.2%]); and nutritional disorders (6 [0.1%]). Other disorders, including multifactorial or idiopathic diseases contributed 80 (1.6%) cases. In 1,548 (32.0%) out of the 4,844 cases it was not possible to establish either cause of death or reason for euthanasia. Infectious and parasitic diseases (mainly canine distemper, parvoviral enteritis and intestinal parasitism), neoplasia (mainly mammary neoplasms and lymphoma), disorders caused by physical agents (mainly accidents caused by automotive vehicles) and degenerative diseases (mainly chronic renal failure, cirrhosis, and congestive heart failure) were the main disease categories causing death or motivating euthanasia in dogs of this midland region. However, when cases were evaluated in relation with the age of the dog, the disease prevalence differed. The main causes of death in puppies were infectious and parasitic disease (mainly parvoviral enteritis, canine distemper, and intestinal parasitism). In adult dogs the most important causes of death were canine distemper, neoplasia and trauma. In age dogs, approximately half of the deaths could be attributed to neoplasia and degenerative disease.

• Diseases of dogs causes of death reasons for euthanasia

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Fighera R.A., Souza T.M., Silva M.C., Brum J.S., Graça D.L., Kommers G.D., Irigoyen L.F. & Barros C.S.L. 2008. [Causes of death and reasons for euthanasia in dogs from the midland region of the Midwest of Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazil (1965-2004).] Causas de morte e razões para eutanásia de cães da Mesorregião do Centro Ocidental Rio-Grandense (1965-2004). Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(4):223-230. Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900 Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: anemiaveterinaria@yahoo.com.br The main objective of this study was to investigate the prevalence of diseases culminating with death or motivating euthanasia of dogs from the midland region of the Midwest of Rio Grande do Sul State, Brazil. The necropsy files of the Laboratório de Patologia Veterinária (LPV) of the Universidade Federal de Santa Maria (UFSM) were accessed and necropsy protocols of dogs necropsied between January 1965 and December 2004 were reviewed. During this period 4,844 reports of canine necropsies were filed at the LPV-UFSM. The case distribution in relation to the disease categories diagnosed was as follows: infectious and parasitic diseases (1,693 [35.0%]); neoplasms (378 [7.8%]); disorders caused by physical agents (369 [7.6%]); degenerative diseases (342 [7.1%]); poisonings and toxinfections (112 [2.3%]); euthanasia due to convenience (101 [2.1%]); metabolic and endocrinological diseases (97 [2.0%]); iatrogenic disorders (83 [1.7%]); developmental disorders (25 [0.5%]); immune mediate diseases (10 [0.2%]); and nutritional disorders (6 [0.1%]). Other disorders, including multifactorial or idiopathic diseases contributed 80 (1.6%) cases. In 1,548 (32.0%) out of the 4,844 cases it was not possible to establish either cause of death or reason for euthanasia. Infectious and parasitic diseases (mainly canine distemper, parvoviral enteritis and intestinal parasitism), neoplasia (mainly mammary neoplasms and lymphoma), disorders caused by physical agents (mainly accidents caused by automotive vehicles) and degenerative diseases (mainly chronic renal failure, cirrhosis, and congestive heart failure) were the main disease categories causing death or motivating euthanasia in dogs of this midland region. However, when cases were evaluated in relation with the age of the dog, the disease prevalence differed. The main causes of death in puppies were infectious and parasitic disease (mainly parvoviral enteritis, canine distemper, and intestinal parasitism). In adult dogs the most important causes of death were canine distemper, neoplasia and trauma. In age dogs, approximately half of the deaths could be attributed to neoplasia and degenerative disease.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Almeida M.B., Priebe A.P.S., Riet-Correa B., Riet-Correa G., Fiss L., Raffi M.B. & Schild A.L. 2008. [Evolution and reversibility of neurologic and cardiac lesions in sheep caused by Ateleia glazioviana and Tetrapterys multiglandulosa.] Evolução e reversibiliade das lesões neurológicas e cardíacas em ovinos intoxicados experimentalmente por Ateleia glazioviana e Tetrapterys multiglandulosa. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(3):129-134. 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 To determine the reversibility of neurological and cardiac lesions in Ateleia glazioviana and Tetrapterys multiglandulosa poisoning, 3 groups of four sheep each were fed orally with the plants. In Group 1, 2 and 3, when sheep with nervous signs showed considerable increase of symptoms and risk of death, the plant administration was suspended. Group 4 with two sheep was used as control. Sheep from Group 1, fed 10g/kg during 6 days of fresh A. glazioviana collected in autumn were euthanized 8, 11, 16, and 21 days after the start of the experiment; they had shown regression of nervous signs, but had progressive cardiac lesions. Sheep from Group 2, fed during 8 days the same dose of fresh A. glazioviana collected in spring, were euthanized on days 9, 23, 38 and 68; they had shown regression of nervous signs and had no cardiac lesions. This suggests that the plant is less toxic in spring. Sheep from Group 3, fed 10g/kg during 11 days dry and ground T. multiglandulosa mixed with concentrated food, were euthanized on days 33, 33, 92 and 92; they had shown regression of nervous signs, and cardiac lesions were less severe on day 33 than on day 92. These results indicate that nervous lesions are reversible after the end of feeding, but cardiac lesions are progressive after discontinuation of the plant administration; these can be afterwards reversible if the animals do not anymore show clinical signs or die as a consequence of the poisoning. Results of those and previous experiments show that lesions of the nervous system are induced by lower doses than cardiac lesions and occur within a shorter period, what suggests that in spontaneous cases cardiac signs are always preceded by nervous signs, and that nervous signs can occur in the absence of cardiac lesions.

• Poisonous plants cardiomyopathy status spongiosus Ateleia glazioviana Tetrapterys multiglandulosa plant poisoning sheep

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Almeida M.B., Priebe A.P.S., Riet-Correa B., Riet-Correa G., Fiss L., Raffi M.B. & Schild A.L. 2008. [Evolution and reversibility of neurologic and cardiac lesions in sheep caused by Ateleia glazioviana and Tetrapterys multiglandulosa.] Evolução e reversibiliade das lesões neurológicas e cardíacas em ovinos intoxicados experimentalmente por Ateleia glazioviana e Tetrapterys multiglandulosa. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(3):129-134. 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 To determine the reversibility of neurological and cardiac lesions in Ateleia glazioviana and Tetrapterys multiglandulosa poisoning, 3 groups of four sheep each were fed orally with the plants. In Group 1, 2 and 3, when sheep with nervous signs showed considerable increase of symptoms and risk of death, the plant administration was suspended. Group 4 with two sheep was used as control. Sheep from Group 1, fed 10g/kg during 6 days of fresh A. glazioviana collected in autumn were euthanized 8, 11, 16, and 21 days after the start of the experiment; they had shown regression of nervous signs, but had progressive cardiac lesions. Sheep from Group 2, fed during 8 days the same dose of fresh A. glazioviana collected in spring, were euthanized on days 9, 23, 38 and 68; they had shown regression of nervous signs and had no cardiac lesions. This suggests that the plant is less toxic in spring. Sheep from Group 3, fed 10g/kg during 11 days dry and ground T. multiglandulosa mixed with concentrated food, were euthanized on days 33, 33, 92 and 92; they had shown regression of nervous signs, and cardiac lesions were less severe on day 33 than on day 92. These results indicate that nervous lesions are reversible after the end of feeding, but cardiac lesions are progressive after discontinuation of the plant administration; these can be afterwards reversible if the animals do not anymore show clinical signs or die as a consequence of the poisoning. Results of those and previous experiments show that lesions of the nervous system are induced by lower doses than cardiac lesions and occur within a shorter period, what suggests that in spontaneous cases cardiac signs are always preceded by nervous signs, and that nervous signs can occur in the absence of cardiac lesions.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Nóbrega Jr J.E., Macêdo J.T.S.A., Araújo J.A.S., Dantas A.F.M., Soares M.P. & Riet-Correa F. 2008. [Contagious echtyma in sheep and goats in the semiarid of Paraíba, Brazil.] Ectima contagioso em ovinos e caprinos no semi-árido da Paraíba. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(3):135-139. Hospital Veterinário, Centro de Saúde e Tecnologia Rural, Universidade Federal de Campina Grande, Campus de Patos, 58700-970 Patos, PB, Brazil. E-mail: franklin.riet@pq.cnpq.br Ten outbreaks of contagious ecthyma in goats and two in sheep in the semiarid of Paraíba State are reported. Young animals were more frequently affected, but in 8 outbreaks adult animals were also affected, mainly lactating goats which developed udder lesions. None of the affected flocks had been vaccinated. Upon histologic examination the epidermis showed acanthosis with pseudoepitheliomatous hyperplasia and multifocal ballooning degeneration forming vesicles or pustules. Eosinophilic inclusion bodies were observed in keratinocytes. Crust of necrotic cells, hyperkeratosis, and intracorneal microabscesses or large ulcerated areas were also observed. Severe diffuse infiltration by mononuclear cells was observed in the dermis. A human case was observed in an investigator that was feeding a goat that later appeared with lesions of the disease. In this case, the virus was identified by electron microscopy of a skin biopsy. These results show that contagious ecthyma is endemic in Northeastern Brazil and therefore systematic vaccination of the flocks is necessary to control the disease. The use of gloves to handle affected animals is advisable to minimize the risk of human exposure.

• Contagious ecthyma sheep goat human infection parapoxvirus Poxviridae

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Nóbrega Jr J.E., Macêdo J.T.S.A., Araújo J.A.S., Dantas A.F.M., Soares M.P. & Riet-Correa F. 2008. [Contagious echtyma in sheep and goats in the semiarid of Paraíba, Brazil.] Ectima contagioso em ovinos e caprinos no semi-árido da Paraíba. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(3):135-139. Hospital Veterinário, Centro de Saúde e Tecnologia Rural, Universidade Federal de Campina Grande, Campus de Patos, 58700-970 Patos, PB, Brazil. E-mail: franklin.riet@pq.cnpq.br Ten outbreaks of contagious ecthyma in goats and two in sheep in the semiarid of Paraíba State are reported. Young animals were more frequently affected, but in 8 outbreaks adult animals were also affected, mainly lactating goats which developed udder lesions. None of the affected flocks had been vaccinated. Upon histologic examination the epidermis showed acanthosis with pseudoepitheliomatous hyperplasia and multifocal ballooning degeneration forming vesicles or pustules. Eosinophilic inclusion bodies were observed in keratinocytes. Crust of necrotic cells, hyperkeratosis, and intracorneal microabscesses or large ulcerated areas were also observed. Severe diffuse infiltration by mononuclear cells was observed in the dermis. A human case was observed in an investigator that was feeding a goat that later appeared with lesions of the disease. In this case, the virus was identified by electron microscopy of a skin biopsy. These results show that contagious ecthyma is endemic in Northeastern Brazil and therefore systematic vaccination of the flocks is necessary to control the disease. The use of gloves to handle affected animals is advisable to minimize the risk of human exposure.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Henzel A., Diel D.G., Arenhart S., Vogel F.S.F., Weiblen R. & Flores E.F. 2008. [Virological and clinico-pathological features of acute vulvovaginitis and latent infection by bovine herpesvirus 1.2 in heifers experimentally infected.] Aspectos virológicos e clínico-patológicos da infecção genital aguda e latente pelo herpesvírus bovino tipo 1.2 em bezerras experimentalmente infectadas. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(3):140-148. Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900 Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: flores@ccr.ufsm.br Venereal infection of heifers and cows with bovine herpesvirus type 1.2 (BoHV-1.2) may result in vulvovaginitis and transient infertility. The acute infection is followed by the establishment of latent infection which can be periodically reactivated. We herein describe the virology and clinico-pathological aspects of acute and recrudescent vulvovaginitis in heifers inoculated with a Brazilian BoHV-1.2 isolate recovered from an outbreak of balanoposthitis. Genital inoculation of isolate SV-56/90 (108.1TCID50/animal) in four eight-months-old heifers resulted in efficient virus replication in the genital mucosa and the development of moderate to severe vulvovaginitis. The inoculated heifers shed virus in genital secretions in titers up to 107.3TCID50/mL until day 10 pi and developed genital congestion, swelling, vesicles and pustules. The vesicles and pustules increased in size eventually coalesced and became covered with a yellowish exsudate. These signs appeared at day 2 pi, increased in severity up to days 5 - 8 pi and progressively subsided thereafter. Dexamethasone administration at day 55 pi resulted in virus shedding in vaginal secretions for up to 10 days. Virus reactivation in all animals was accompanied by clinical recrudescence of the disease, yet less severe than during acute infection. Examination of sacral ganglia and lymph nodes by PCR at day 36 post-reactivation revealed the presence of latent viral DNA in the pudendal (4/4), genito-femoral, sciatic and rectal caudal (3/4) and obturator nerve ganglia (1/4); in addition to several regional lymph nodes. These results demonstrate the virulence of isolate SV-56/90 for heifers and pave the way for its use in further pathogenesis studies and vaccine-challenge trials.

• Bovine herpesvirus BoHV-1.2 vulvovaginitis genital infection latency reactivation

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Henzel A., Diel D.G., Arenhart S., Vogel F.S.F., Weiblen R. & Flores E.F. 2008. [Virological and clinico-pathological features of acute vulvovaginitis and latent infection by bovine herpesvirus 1.2 in heifers experimentally infected.] Aspectos virológicos e clínico-patológicos da infecção genital aguda e latente pelo herpesvírus bovino tipo 1.2 em bezerras experimentalmente infectadas. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(3):140-148. Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900 Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: flores@ccr.ufsm.br Venereal infection of heifers and cows with bovine herpesvirus type 1.2 (BoHV-1.2) may result in vulvovaginitis and transient infertility. The acute infection is followed by the establishment of latent infection which can be periodically reactivated. We herein describe the virology and clinico-pathological aspects of acute and recrudescent vulvovaginitis in heifers inoculated with a Brazilian BoHV-1.2 isolate recovered from an outbreak of balanoposthitis. Genital inoculation of isolate SV-56/90 (108.1TCID50/animal) in four eight-months-old heifers resulted in efficient virus replication in the genital mucosa and the development of moderate to severe vulvovaginitis. The inoculated heifers shed virus in genital secretions in titers up to 107.3TCID50/mL until day 10 pi and developed genital congestion, swelling, vesicles and pustules. The vesicles and pustules increased in size eventually coalesced and became covered with a yellowish exsudate. These signs appeared at day 2 pi, increased in severity up to days 5 - 8 pi and progressively subsided thereafter. Dexamethasone administration at day 55 pi resulted in virus shedding in vaginal secretions for up to 10 days. Virus reactivation in all animals was accompanied by clinical recrudescence of the disease, yet less severe than during acute infection. Examination of sacral ganglia and lymph nodes by PCR at day 36 post-reactivation revealed the presence of latent viral DNA in the pudendal (4/4), genito-femoral, sciatic and rectal caudal (3/4) and obturator nerve ganglia (1/4); in addition to several regional lymph nodes. These results demonstrate the virulence of isolate SV-56/90 for heifers and pave the way for its use in further pathogenesis studies and vaccine-challenge trials.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Pavarini S.P., Sonne L., Antoniassi N.A.B., Santos A.S., Pescador C.A., Corbellini L.G. & Driemeier D. 2008. [Congenital anomalies in aborted bovine fetuses in Southern Brazil.] Anomalias congênitas em fetos bovinos abortados no Sul do Brasil. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(3):149-154. Departamento de Patologia Clínica Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Av. Bento Gonçalves 9090, Porto Alegre, RS 91540-000, Brazil. E-mail: davetpat@ufrgs.br Abortion, stillbirth and neonatal death are important causes of production losses to the livestock industry. Abortions caused by congenital anomalies may occur sporadically, or appear in epidemics. This retrospective study was conducted at Laboratory of Veterinary Pathology of Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, and included 307 cases of bovine abortion submitted for diagnosis from September 2001 to March 2007. Most of them were from southern Brazil. Ten cases (3.25%) of congenital anomalies were seen. The most frequent congenital anomalies were artrogryposis, Amorphous globosus, and cleft palate (palatoschisis). Infectious causes were investigated, but only BVDV infection was detected by immunohistochemistry in one case, which was affected with porencephalia.

• Abortion bovine congenital anomalies

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Pavarini S.P., Sonne L., Antoniassi N.A.B., Santos A.S., Pescador C.A., Corbellini L.G. & Driemeier D. 2008. [Congenital anomalies in aborted bovine fetuses in Southern Brazil.] Anomalias congênitas em fetos bovinos abortados no Sul do Brasil. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(3):149-154. Departamento de Patologia Clínica Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Av. Bento Gonçalves 9090, Porto Alegre, RS 91540-000, Brazil. E-mail: davetpat@ufrgs.br Abortion, stillbirth and neonatal death are important causes of production losses to the livestock industry. Abortions caused by congenital anomalies may occur sporadically, or appear in epidemics. This retrospective study was conducted at Laboratory of Veterinary Pathology of Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, and included 307 cases of bovine abortion submitted for diagnosis from September 2001 to March 2007. Most of them were from southern Brazil. Ten cases (3.25%) of congenital anomalies were seen. The most frequent congenital anomalies were artrogryposis, Amorphous globosus, and cleft palate (palatoschisis). Infectious causes were investigated, but only BVDV infection was detected by immunohistochemistry in one case, which was affected with porencephalia.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Mendonça F.S., Dória R.G.S., Schein F.B., Freitas S.H., Nakazato L., Boabaid F.M., Paula D.A.J., Dutra V. & Colodel E.M. 2008. [Malignant catarrhal fever in cattle, Mato Grosso, Brazil.] Febre catarral maligna em bovinos no Estado de Mato Grosso. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(3):155-160. Departamento de Clínica Médica Veterinária, Faculdade de Agronomia e Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso, Av. Fernando Corrêa da Costa s/n, Bairro Coxipó, Cuiabá, MT 78068-900, Brazil. E-mail: moleta@ufmt.br Four outbreaks of malignant catarrhal fever (MCF) in cattle, which had contact with sheep, in Mato Grosso, Brazil, are described. In all cases, the animals had a clinical course of 4 to 7 days with no recovery. Two outbreaks occurred in the municipality of Cuiabá, the first in January 2006 with 8 cattle affected from a herd of 148, and the second in one out of 30 cattle in September 2006. The third outbreak occurred in April 2007 in the municipality of Rondonópolis, where 3 cattle died in a herd of 160. The fourth outbreak was in the municipality of Caceres in September 2007, where 2 out of 450 cattle were affected. The clinical signs were hyperthermia, intense lacrimation, nasal and oral discharge, corneal opacity, sialorrhea, oral, nasal and genital mucosal erosions, incoordination, depression and death. Necropsy findings in 4 animals were similar and consisted of lymph node swelling, and nasal, oral and esophagus erosion and ulceration. Histologically, arteritis and fibrinoid degeneration was observed in small arteries and arterioles, associated with epithelial necrosis in various organs and tissues. A nested polymerase chain reaction (nPCR) detected ovine herpes virus type 2 in frozen and paraffin embedded tissues in 3 cases.

• Bovine malignant catarrhal fever herpesvirus vasculitis

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Mendonça F.S., Dória R.G.S., Schein F.B., Freitas S.H., Nakazato L., Boabaid F.M., Paula D.A.J., Dutra V. & Colodel E.M. 2008. [Malignant catarrhal fever in cattle, Mato Grosso, Brazil.] Febre catarral maligna em bovinos no Estado de Mato Grosso. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(3):155-160. Departamento de Clínica Médica Veterinária, Faculdade de Agronomia e Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso, Av. Fernando Corrêa da Costa s/n, Bairro Coxipó, Cuiabá, MT 78068-900, Brazil. E-mail: moleta@ufmt.br Four outbreaks of malignant catarrhal fever (MCF) in cattle, which had contact with sheep, in Mato Grosso, Brazil, are described. In all cases, the animals had a clinical course of 4 to 7 days with no recovery. Two outbreaks occurred in the municipality of Cuiabá, the first in January 2006 with 8 cattle affected from a herd of 148, and the second in one out of 30 cattle in September 2006. The third outbreak occurred in April 2007 in the municipality of Rondonópolis, where 3 cattle died in a herd of 160. The fourth outbreak was in the municipality of Caceres in September 2007, where 2 out of 450 cattle were affected. The clinical signs were hyperthermia, intense lacrimation, nasal and oral discharge, corneal opacity, sialorrhea, oral, nasal and genital mucosal erosions, incoordination, depression and death. Necropsy findings in 4 animals were similar and consisted of lymph node swelling, and nasal, oral and esophagus erosion and ulceration. Histologically, arteritis and fibrinoid degeneration was observed in small arteries and arterioles, associated with epithelial necrosis in various organs and tissues. A nested polymerase chain reaction (nPCR) detected ovine herpes virus type 2 in frozen and paraffin embedded tissues in 3 cases.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Dias J.A., Alfieri, A.A., Medici, K.C., Freitas, J.C., Ferreira-Neto J.S. & Müller E.E. 2008. [Risk factors for bovine herpesvirus 1 infection in cattle herds in the West region of Parana State.] Fatores de risco associados à infecção pelo herpesvírus bovino 1 em rebanhos bovinos da região Oeste do Estado do Paraná. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(3):161-168. Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Universidade Estadual de Londrina. Rodovia Celso Garcia Cid 380, Cx. Postal 6001, Londrina, PR 86051-990, Brazil. E-mail: muller@uel.br The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of positive herds and to identify the risk factors for BoHV-1 infection in breeding cattle herds in the Western region of Parana State. The statistic delineation, the serum samples and information regarding the selected farms, were the same employed in the study of bovine brucellosis for Parana State in the context of National Program for Control and Eradication of Brucellosis and Tuberculosis. The sampling was performed in two stages. Blood samples were collected from 1930 females aged ³24 months from 295 non vaccinated herds. Serum samples were tested for antibodies against BoHV-1 using an indirect ELISA. The epidemiological questionnaire was applied on all the selected farms and aimed to obtain epidemiological data. Hundred ninety of the 295 herds were positive for BoHV-1, presenting prevalence of positive herds of 64.41% [58.65-69.87%]. The number (³23) of females aged 24 months (OR=2.22; IC: 1.09-4.51), purchased cattle (OR=2.68; IC: 1.48-4.82), use of common grass (OR=5.93; IC: 1.31-26.82), history of abortion in the last 12 months (OR=2.37; IC: 1.09-5.16) and presence of wildlife animals (OR=8.86; IC: 1.11-70.73) were identified as risk factors for BoHV-1 infection in the multivariate logistic regression. These results indicate that BoHV-1 infection is widespread in the studied region and that factors related to the herd characteristic and management are associated with the infection.

• Prevalence epidemiology risk factors bovine herpesvirus 1 indirect ELISA

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Dias J.A., Alfieri, A.A., Medici, K.C., Freitas, J.C., Ferreira-Neto J.S. & Müller E.E. 2008. [Risk factors for bovine herpesvirus 1 infection in cattle herds in the West region of Parana State.] Fatores de risco associados à infecção pelo herpesvírus bovino 1 em rebanhos bovinos da região Oeste do Estado do Paraná. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(3):161-168. Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva, Universidade Estadual de Londrina. Rodovia Celso Garcia Cid 380, Cx. Postal 6001, Londrina, PR 86051-990, Brazil. E-mail: muller@uel.br The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of positive herds and to identify the risk factors for BoHV-1 infection in breeding cattle herds in the Western region of Parana State. The statistic delineation, the serum samples and information regarding the selected farms, were the same employed in the study of bovine brucellosis for Parana State in the context of National Program for Control and Eradication of Brucellosis and Tuberculosis. The sampling was performed in two stages. Blood samples were collected from 1930 females aged ³24 months from 295 non vaccinated herds. Serum samples were tested for antibodies against BoHV-1 using an indirect ELISA. The epidemiological questionnaire was applied on all the selected farms and aimed to obtain epidemiological data. Hundred ninety of the 295 herds were positive for BoHV-1, presenting prevalence of positive herds of 64.41% [58.65-69.87%]. The number (³23) of females aged 24 months (OR=2.22; IC: 1.09-4.51), purchased cattle (OR=2.68; IC: 1.48-4.82), use of common grass (OR=5.93; IC: 1.31-26.82), history of abortion in the last 12 months (OR=2.37; IC: 1.09-5.16) and presence of wildlife animals (OR=8.86; IC: 1.11-70.73) were identified as risk factors for BoHV-1 infection in the multivariate logistic regression. These results indicate that BoHV-1 infection is widespread in the studied region and that factors related to the herd characteristic and management are associated with the infection.