PESQUISA VETERINÁRIA BRASILEIRA

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Domingues-F. L.M. & Gioso M.A. 2007. [Comparison of the application of temporary endodontic dressing in teeth of dogs: histopathological and microbiological aspects.] Comparação entre sessão única e a utilização do “curativo de demora” no tratamento endodôntico em cães: aspectos histopatológicos e microbiológicos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(5):191-193. Departamento de Cirurgia da Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Prof. Dr. Orlando Marques de Paiva 87, Bloco 8, Cidade Universitária, São Paulo, SP 05508-000, Brazil. E-mail: lesliedf@usp.br During a root canal therapy the microbiota is the major concern. Bacteria present in dentinal tubules, apical foramens and apical delta is related to failure of this procedure. Some studies reveal that during endodontic treatment in one session bacteria still remain in dental structures. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the endodontic treatment in one or two sessions, using calcium hydroxide plus camphorated paramonochlorophenol (CMCP) with temporary endodontic medicaments. Four dogs were used, and two animals were submitted the treatment in one session only and the others in two sessions. Premolar teeth were used in this study: second and third upper premolar teeth and second, third and fourth lower premolar teeth were divided into two groups. Opening of the pulp chamber was performed with burns, and the pulp was exposed for 60 days. After this period the group treated in only session was obtured with gutta-percha and zinc oxide and eugenol, and the group treated in two sessions received the CMCP that remained in the canal per 30 days and was afterwards obtured with the material of the other group. Clinical and radiographical control was performed twice a week, and after 60 days a small block containing the teeth, surrounding periapical tissues and the periodontium was removed for histological and microbiological study. Histological analysis revealed intense inflammatory response in both groups. Microbiological analysis showed a more severe microbial reduction in the group treated in one session. However, bacteria were still observed in the two groups, indicating that none of the treatments presented total efficiency.

• Apical delta endodontics gutta-percha calcium hydroxide dog camphorate paramonochlorophenol

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Domingues-F. L.M. & Gioso M.A. 2007. [Comparison of the application of temporary endodontic dressing in teeth of dogs: histopathological and microbiological aspects.] Comparação entre sessão única e a utilização do “curativo de demora” no tratamento endodôntico em cães: aspectos histopatológicos e microbiológicos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(5):191-193. Departamento de Cirurgia da Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Prof. Dr. Orlando Marques de Paiva 87, Bloco 8, Cidade Universitária, São Paulo, SP 05508-000, Brazil. E-mail: lesliedf@usp.br During a root canal therapy the microbiota is the major concern. Bacteria present in dentinal tubules, apical foramens and apical delta is related to failure of this procedure. Some studies reveal that during endodontic treatment in one session bacteria still remain in dental structures. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the endodontic treatment in one or two sessions, using calcium hydroxide plus camphorated paramonochlorophenol (CMCP) with temporary endodontic medicaments. Four dogs were used, and two animals were submitted the treatment in one session only and the others in two sessions. Premolar teeth were used in this study: second and third upper premolar teeth and second, third and fourth lower premolar teeth were divided into two groups. Opening of the pulp chamber was performed with burns, and the pulp was exposed for 60 days. After this period the group treated in only session was obtured with gutta-percha and zinc oxide and eugenol, and the group treated in two sessions received the CMCP that remained in the canal per 30 days and was afterwards obtured with the material of the other group. Clinical and radiographical control was performed twice a week, and after 60 days a small block containing the teeth, surrounding periapical tissues and the periodontium was removed for histological and microbiological study. Histological analysis revealed intense inflammatory response in both groups. Microbiological analysis showed a more severe microbial reduction in the group treated in one session. However, bacteria were still observed in the two groups, indicating that none of the treatments presented total efficiency.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Clementino I.J., Alves C.J., Azevedo S.S., Paulin L.M. & Medeiros K.A. 2007. [Sero-epidemiological survey and risk factors for Brucella ovis infection in rams of the semiarid region of Paraíba, northeastern Brazil.] Inquérito soro-epidemiológico e fatores de risco associados à infecção por Brucella ovis em carneiros deslanados do semi-árido da Paraíba. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(4):137-143. Departamento de Medicina Veterinária, Centro de Saúde e Tecnologia Rural, Universidade Federal de Campina Grande, Cx.Postal 64, Patos, PB 58700-970, Brazil. E-mail: clementinoij@yahoo.com.br A sero-epidemiological survey was conducted to determine the prevalence and distribution of Brucella ovis infection in rams in the state of Paraíba, northeastern Brazil. The risk factors for the infection were also verified. Serum samples from 498 rams, 8 months of age or older, of 283 sheep herds in the Sertão Paraibano and Borborema mesoregions were investigated. All sera were examined by AGID test (screening test) and CFT (confirmatory test). From the total of examined herds, 8.59% (95% CI = 5.83%-12.48%) were seropositive for Brucella ovis. The prevalence of seropositive rams was 5.57% (95% CI = 3.86%-7.97%). The seropositivity was lower in herds where cleanliness was frequently made (p< 0.05).

• Brucellosis Brucella ovis rams prevalence

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Clementino I.J., Alves C.J., Azevedo S.S., Paulin L.M. & Medeiros K.A. 2007. [Sero-epidemiological survey and risk factors for Brucella ovis infection in rams of the semiarid region of Paraíba, northeastern Brazil.] Inquérito soro-epidemiológico e fatores de risco associados à infecção por Brucella ovis em carneiros deslanados do semi-árido da Paraíba. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(4):137-143. Departamento de Medicina Veterinária, Centro de Saúde e Tecnologia Rural, Universidade Federal de Campina Grande, Cx.Postal 64, Patos, PB 58700-970, Brazil. E-mail: clementinoij@yahoo.com.br A sero-epidemiological survey was conducted to determine the prevalence and distribution of Brucella ovis infection in rams in the state of Paraíba, northeastern Brazil. The risk factors for the infection were also verified. Serum samples from 498 rams, 8 months of age or older, of 283 sheep herds in the Sertão Paraibano and Borborema mesoregions were investigated. All sera were examined by AGID test (screening test) and CFT (confirmatory test). From the total of examined herds, 8.59% (95% CI = 5.83%-12.48%) were seropositive for Brucella ovis. The prevalence of seropositive rams was 5.57% (95% CI = 3.86%-7.97%). The seropositivity was lower in herds where cleanliness was frequently made (p< 0.05).

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Farias M.M.M.D, Wenceslau C.V., Passos J., Teixeira D.G., Araújo K.P.C., Ambrósio C.E., Martins D.S. & Prada I.L.S. 2007. [Behavior of the glossopharyngeal and vagus nerves in the retropharyngeal region of sheep: apparent origin in cranium, course, branching and dis-tribution.] Comportamento dos nervos glossofaríngeo e vago, na região retrofaríngea de ovinos: origem aparente no crânio, trajeto, ramificação e distribuição. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(3):115-123. Setor de Anatomia dos Animais Domésticos e Silvestres, Departamento de Cirurgia, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia. Universidade de São Paulo, Avenida Prof. Dr. Orlando Marques de Paiva 87, Cidade Universitária, São Paulo, SP 05508-900, Brazil. E-mail: ceambrosio@usp.br In 60 hemiheads of sheep of the Santa Ines breed the apparent origin in the skull of itinerary, ramification and distribution of the glossopharingeal nerve (Gf) and the vagus nerve (Vg) in the retropharyngeal region (Rr) were studied. By fixation and dissection of the specimens it was seen that the glossopharyngeal nerve and the vagus nerve arise from the jugular foramen in 100% of the cases. The right and the left glossopharingeal nerve (Glde) are frequently (86.6%) located more medially to the tympanic bulla, pass caudally to the stylohyoid bone, bypass the margin of the caudal stylopharyngeal muscle, the tonsilla, of the pharyngeal and the lingual mucous membrane. These branches are distributed, respectively, in the carotid sinus, pharyngeal musculature, soft palate, stylopharyngeal muscle, palatine tonsil, pharyngeal mucosa and the caudal third of the tongue (100%). The right and the left vagus nerve run caudally in association with the accessory nerves (Ac) up to the atlas (70%) and go then medially to the occipital artery, dorsally to the common carotid and the sympathetic trunk in the cervical region (80%). The vague nerves have pharyngeal (86.6%) and cranial laryngeal (100%) branches.

• Anatomy sheep glossopharingeal nerve vagus nerve

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Farias M.M.M.D, Wenceslau C.V., Passos J., Teixeira D.G., Araújo K.P.C., Ambrósio C.E., Martins D.S. & Prada I.L.S. 2007. [Behavior of the glossopharyngeal and vagus nerves in the retropharyngeal region of sheep: apparent origin in cranium, course, branching and dis-tribution.] Comportamento dos nervos glossofaríngeo e vago, na região retrofaríngea de ovinos: origem aparente no crânio, trajeto, ramificação e distribuição. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(3):115-123. Setor de Anatomia dos Animais Domésticos e Silvestres, Departamento de Cirurgia, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia. Universidade de São Paulo, Avenida Prof. Dr. Orlando Marques de Paiva 87, Cidade Universitária, São Paulo, SP 05508-900, Brazil. E-mail: ceambrosio@usp.br In 60 hemiheads of sheep of the Santa Ines breed the apparent origin in the skull of itinerary, ramification and distribution of the glossopharingeal nerve (Gf) and the vagus nerve (Vg) in the retropharyngeal region (Rr) were studied. By fixation and dissection of the specimens it was seen that the glossopharyngeal nerve and the vagus nerve arise from the jugular foramen in 100% of the cases. The right and the left glossopharingeal nerve (Glde) are frequently (86.6%) located more medially to the tympanic bulla, pass caudally to the stylohyoid bone, bypass the margin of the caudal stylopharyngeal muscle, the tonsilla, of the pharyngeal and the lingual mucous membrane. These branches are distributed, respectively, in the carotid sinus, pharyngeal musculature, soft palate, stylopharyngeal muscle, palatine tonsil, pharyngeal mucosa and the caudal third of the tongue (100%). The right and the left vagus nerve run caudally in association with the accessory nerves (Ac) up to the atlas (70%) and go then medially to the occipital artery, dorsally to the common carotid and the sympathetic trunk in the cervical region (80%). The vague nerves have pharyngeal (86.6%) and cranial laryngeal (100%) branches.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Domingues-F.L.M., Ferreira J., Lopes F.M., Tymoszczenko A. & Gioso M.A. 2007. The effect of timing temporary cements to treat induced pulp necrosis in the teeth of dogs. Revista Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(2):85-88. Departamento de Cirurgia, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Prof. Dr. Orlando de Marques de Paiva 87, Bloco 8-superior, Cidade Universitária, São Paulo, SP 05508-000, Brazil. E-mail: lesliedf@usp.br During endodontic therapy (pulpectomy, root canal debridement and root canal filling) microbiological management is a major concern. Bacteria present in dentine tubules, apical foramina and apical delta are causally related to failure of the procedure. Studies have shown that during single session endodontic treatment bacteria remain within dental structures. The aim of the present study was to evaluate endodontic treatment performed as two sessions, using temporary endodontic dressing materials for different periods in four groups of experimental dogs. A total of 80 roots of second and third upper premolar teeth and second, third and fourth lower premolar teeth were divided into four groups. The pulp chamber was opened with burrs and the pulp exposed for 60 days to induce pulpal inflammation and necrosis. Groups II, III and IV were treated with calcium hydroxide plus camphorated paramono-chlorophenol (PMCC) for 7, 15 and 30 days, respectively. In all groups, the root canals were filled with zinc oxide-eugenol and gutta-percha cones. Clinical and radiographical measurements were performed every 2 weeks. After 60 days a small block section containing the teeth, surrounding periapical tissues and the periodontium was removed for histological and microbiological study. Histological analysis revealed intense inflammatory response in all groups. Microbiological analysis showed microbial reduction inversely proportional to the period of time that the intracanal temporary medicament was left in place.

• Apical delta endodontic gutta-percha camphorated paramonochlorophenol microorganisms dogs

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Domingues-F.L.M., Ferreira J., Lopes F.M., Tymoszczenko A. & Gioso M.A. 2007. The effect of timing temporary cements to treat induced pulp necrosis in the teeth of dogs. Revista Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(2):85-88. Departamento de Cirurgia, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, Av. Prof. Dr. Orlando de Marques de Paiva 87, Bloco 8-superior, Cidade Universitária, São Paulo, SP 05508-000, Brazil. E-mail: lesliedf@usp.br During endodontic therapy (pulpectomy, root canal debridement and root canal filling) microbiological management is a major concern. Bacteria present in dentine tubules, apical foramina and apical delta are causally related to failure of the procedure. Studies have shown that during single session endodontic treatment bacteria remain within dental structures. The aim of the present study was to evaluate endodontic treatment performed as two sessions, using temporary endodontic dressing materials for different periods in four groups of experimental dogs. A total of 80 roots of second and third upper premolar teeth and second, third and fourth lower premolar teeth were divided into four groups. The pulp chamber was opened with burrs and the pulp exposed for 60 days to induce pulpal inflammation and necrosis. Groups II, III and IV were treated with calcium hydroxide plus camphorated paramono-chlorophenol (PMCC) for 7, 15 and 30 days, respectively. In all groups, the root canals were filled with zinc oxide-eugenol and gutta-percha cones. Clinical and radiographical measurements were performed every 2 weeks. After 60 days a small block section containing the teeth, surrounding periapical tissues and the periodontium was removed for histological and microbiological study. Histological analysis revealed intense inflammatory response in all groups. Microbiological analysis showed microbial reduction inversely proportional to the period of time that the intracanal temporary medicament was left in place.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Morés N., Ventura L., Dutra V., Silva V.S., Barioni Jr W., Oliveira S.R, Kramer B. & Ferreira Neto J.S. 2007. [Granulomatous lymphadenitis in swine: lymph nodes affected and pathologic diagnosis of the infection caused by Mycobacterium avium Complex agents.] Linfadenite granulomatosa em suínos: linfonodos afetados e diagnóstico patológico da infecção causada por agentes do Complexo Mycobacterium avium. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(1):13-17. Embrapa Suínos e Aves, Cx. Postal 21, Concórdia, SC 89700-000, Brazil. E-mail: mores@cnpsa.embrapa.br A study to evaluate the distribution of granulomatous lesions in the lymph nodes of swine carcasses was accomplished. The main objective was to compare the methods of isolation of mycobacteria of the Mycobacterium avium Complex (MAC), Ziehl-Neelsen (ZN) staining, histopathological examination and immunohistochemistry (IHC) for the diagnosis of granulomatous lymphadenitis caused by MAC. A total of 431 samples of lymph nodes from 394 swine carcasses kept in 12 cold storage rooms of southern Brazil, which had the Service of Federal Inspection (SFI), were analyzed. Lymph nodes with granulomatous lesions were submitted to histological examination, ZN staining and IHC with monoclonal antibody produced with cellular extract of M. avium. The agreement between the exams was measured by the Kappa test at a 95% confidence level. The macrocospic examination done by SFI correctly identified 90.3% of granulomatous lesions, when compared with histological examination, and the majority of carcasses (92.5%) showed the lesions only in lymph nodes of the alimentary chain. Histological examination confirmed the presence of granulomatous lesions in 90.3% of the lymph nodes. The agreements between histological examination, ZN staining (Kappa: 0.342), IHC and the isolation of MAC (Kappa: 0.102) were low, however high between IHC and histology with typical presence of granulomas in the lymph nodes (Kappa: 0.973). IHC together with histological examination revealed to be efficient for identification of the granulomatous lymphadenitis caused by MAC.

• Swine granulomatous lymphadenitis Mycobacterium avium immunohistochemistry

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Morés N., Ventura L., Dutra V., Silva V.S., Barioni Jr W., Oliveira S.R, Kramer B. & Ferreira Neto J.S. 2007. [Granulomatous lymphadenitis in swine: lymph nodes affected and pathologic diagnosis of the infection caused by Mycobacterium avium Complex agents.] Linfadenite granulomatosa em suínos: linfonodos afetados e diagnóstico patológico da infecção causada por agentes do Complexo Mycobacterium avium. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(1):13-17. Embrapa Suínos e Aves, Cx. Postal 21, Concórdia, SC 89700-000, Brazil. E-mail: mores@cnpsa.embrapa.br A study to evaluate the distribution of granulomatous lesions in the lymph nodes of swine carcasses was accomplished. The main objective was to compare the methods of isolation of mycobacteria of the Mycobacterium avium Complex (MAC), Ziehl-Neelsen (ZN) staining, histopathological examination and immunohistochemistry (IHC) for the diagnosis of granulomatous lymphadenitis caused by MAC. A total of 431 samples of lymph nodes from 394 swine carcasses kept in 12 cold storage rooms of southern Brazil, which had the Service of Federal Inspection (SFI), were analyzed. Lymph nodes with granulomatous lesions were submitted to histological examination, ZN staining and IHC with monoclonal antibody produced with cellular extract of M. avium. The agreement between the exams was measured by the Kappa test at a 95% confidence level. The macrocospic examination done by SFI correctly identified 90.3% of granulomatous lesions, when compared with histological examination, and the majority of carcasses (92.5%) showed the lesions only in lymph nodes of the alimentary chain. Histological examination confirmed the presence of granulomatous lesions in 90.3% of the lymph nodes. The agreements between histological examination, ZN staining (Kappa: 0.342), IHC and the isolation of MAC (Kappa: 0.102) were low, however high between IHC and histology with typical presence of granulomas in the lymph nodes (Kappa: 0.973). IHC together with histological examination revealed to be efficient for identification of the granulomatous lymphadenitis caused by MAC.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Schild A.L., Sallis E.S.V., Priebe A.P., Soares M.P., Almeida M.B., Ladeira S.R.L., Schramm R. & Riet-Correa F. 2006. Anthrax in cattle in southern Brazil: 1978-2006. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(4):243-248. Laboratório Regional de Diagnóstico, Faculdade de Veterinária, Univer-sidade Federal de Pelotas, Campus Universitário s/n, Pelotas, RS 96010-900, Brazil. E-mail: alschild@terra.com.br Ten outbreaks of anthrax occurred in cattle from 1978 to 2006 in southern Brazil, in 5 municipalities on the border with Uruguay, a country where the disease is frequent. The 10 outbreaks represented 0.2% of all bovine specimens received during the period by the Regional Diagnostic Laboratory of the Federal University of Pelotas, causing 267 deaths in a risk population of 6,605 head. The disease affected young and adult cattle mainly during summer. Only one farmer reported that sheep and horses were also affected. Clinically the peracute form was more frequent, but in some outbreaks the acute form with a clinical manifestation period of 6-48 hours was also observed. The source of infection was not established; but the reduced rainfall, associated with low, flat, flooded lands used for agriculture followed by animal grazing after harvest was probably related to the disease occurrence. Annual vaccination is an efficient way to prevent the disease.

• Anthrax Bacillus anthracis infectious disease disease of cattle

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Schild A.L., Sallis E.S.V., Priebe A.P., Soares M.P., Almeida M.B., Ladeira S.R.L., Schramm R. & Riet-Correa F. 2006. Anthrax in cattle in southern Brazil: 1978-2006. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(4):243-248. Laboratório Regional de Diagnóstico, Faculdade de Veterinária, Univer-sidade Federal de Pelotas, Campus Universitário s/n, Pelotas, RS 96010-900, Brazil. E-mail: alschild@terra.com.br Ten outbreaks of anthrax occurred in cattle from 1978 to 2006 in southern Brazil, in 5 municipalities on the border with Uruguay, a country where the disease is frequent. The 10 outbreaks represented 0.2% of all bovine specimens received during the period by the Regional Diagnostic Laboratory of the Federal University of Pelotas, causing 267 deaths in a risk population of 6,605 head. The disease affected young and adult cattle mainly during summer. Only one farmer reported that sheep and horses were also affected. Clinically the peracute form was more frequent, but in some outbreaks the acute form with a clinical manifestation period of 6-48 hours was also observed. The source of infection was not established; but the reduced rainfall, associated with low, flat, flooded lands used for agriculture followed by animal grazing after harvest was probably related to the disease occurrence. Annual vaccination is an efficient way to prevent the disease.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Barbosa J.D., Oliveira C.M.C., Tokarnia C.H. & Peixoto P.V. 2006. [Hepatogenous photosensitization in horses caused by Brachiaria humidicola (Gramineae) in the State of Pará.] Fotossensibilização hepatógena em eqüinos pela ingestão de Brachiaria humidicola (Gramineae) no Estado do Pará. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(3):147-153. Escola de Medicina Veterinária, Campus Castanhal, Universidade Federal do Pará, Rua Maximino Porpino 1000, Castanhal, PA 68743-080, Brazil. E-mail: diomedes@ufpa.br Data on the clinical-pathological aspects and on the epidemioloy of a disease in horses, characterized by phototsensitization, which occurs in northeastern of Pará, Brazil, are presented. Of a total of 40 horses examined clinically, post-mortem examination was performed on seven. Due to the characteristic lesions found on the non-pigmented skin, the macroscopic and histological alterations in the liver, and knowing that Brachiaria grasses contain saponins with toxic properties, which cause liver lesions and photosensitization in cattle and sheep, it is concluded that this disease in horses is caused by grassing exclusively Brachiaria humidicola.

• Poisonous plants Brachiaria humidicola plant poisoning photosensitization saponins horses

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Barbosa J.D., Oliveira C.M.C., Tokarnia C.H. & Peixoto P.V. 2006. [Hepatogenous photosensitization in horses caused by Brachiaria humidicola (Gramineae) in the State of Pará.] Fotossensibilização hepatógena em eqüinos pela ingestão de Brachiaria humidicola (Gramineae) no Estado do Pará. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(3):147-153. Escola de Medicina Veterinária, Campus Castanhal, Universidade Federal do Pará, Rua Maximino Porpino 1000, Castanhal, PA 68743-080, Brazil. E-mail: diomedes@ufpa.br Data on the clinical-pathological aspects and on the epidemioloy of a disease in horses, characterized by phototsensitization, which occurs in northeastern of Pará, Brazil, are presented. Of a total of 40 horses examined clinically, post-mortem examination was performed on seven. Due to the characteristic lesions found on the non-pigmented skin, the macroscopic and histological alterations in the liver, and knowing that Brachiaria grasses contain saponins with toxic properties, which cause liver lesions and photosensitization in cattle and sheep, it is concluded that this disease in horses is caused by grassing exclusively Brachiaria humidicola.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Barros R.R., Irigoyen L.F., Kommers G.D., Rech R.R., Fighera R.A. & Barros C.S.L. 2006. [Poisoning by Ramaria flavo-brunnescens (Clavariaceae) in cattle.] Intoxicação por Ramaria flavo-brunnescens (Clavariaceae) em bovinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(2):87-96. Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900 Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: claudioslbarros@uol.com.br Two oubreaks of poisoning by the mushroom Ramaria flavo-brunnescens are reported in cattle from two farms located in the municipalities of Santa Maria and São Gabriel, state of Rio Grande do Sul, during April-May 2005. Out of a total of 180 yearling calves that had access to a pasture with eucalyptus woods, 19 were affected and 10 died. The clinical courses were 8-15 days and clinical signs included depression, weight loss, dehydration, drooling, loosening and loss of the long hairs of the tip of the tail, smoothening of the dorsal surface of the tongue with occasional ulceration, loosening of the corneal encasement of horns, hard and ball-shaped feces covered with a film of mucous, hypopion, hyphema and corneal opacity. Two calves had leucocytosis due to mild regenerative left shift. Nine calves were necropsied. Necropsy findings confirmed the clinical observation and additionaly included fibrinonecrotic esophagitis, mainly in the distal third of the esophageal mucosa. Histopathological changes in the skin of the tail included orthokeratotic hyperkeratosis; hair folicles with irregular contours, thickening of the tricolemmal keratin layer with occasional formation of keratin plugs, and degeneration and necrosis of the outer root sheath. At the laminar region of the hooves, there was hyperplasia of the top of epidermal laminae with irregular keratinization and retention of nuclei; several epidermal laminae were shortened and fused. There was hemorrhage, fibrin and neutrophilic infiltrate in the dermal laminae. In the mucosa of the tongue there was thinning of the covering epithelium, atrophy and loss of filiform papillae, multifocal areas of dyskeratosis, and spongiosis of the basal cell layer. In some parts the epithelium was lost and the surface consisted of granulation tissue and mixed inflammatory cell infiltrate. The esophageal mucosae of six calves had varying degree of epithelial necrosis and inflammation. The loss of the covering epithelium revealed an underneath area of granulation tissue with heavy inflammatory infiltrate composed predominantly of neutrophils and macrophages. In six calves there were focal symmetric bilateral areas of malacia observed at the level of obex in the medulla oblongata and affecting the white matter and parts of the dorsal nucleus of the vagus and of the hypoglossal nucleus. The epidemiology, clinical signs, pathology, and pathogenesis of poisoning by R. flavo-brunnescens in cattle are discussed.

• Poisonous plants Ramaria flavo-brunnescens Clavariaceae plant poisoning mushroom poisoning keratinization defect focal symmetric encephalomalacia diseases of cattle pathology.

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Barros R.R., Irigoyen L.F., Kommers G.D., Rech R.R., Fighera R.A. & Barros C.S.L. 2006. [Poisoning by Ramaria flavo-brunnescens (Clavariaceae) in cattle.] Intoxicação por Ramaria flavo-brunnescens (Clavariaceae) em bovinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(2):87-96. Departamento de Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900 Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: claudioslbarros@uol.com.br Two oubreaks of poisoning by the mushroom Ramaria flavo-brunnescens are reported in cattle from two farms located in the municipalities of Santa Maria and São Gabriel, state of Rio Grande do Sul, during April-May 2005. Out of a total of 180 yearling calves that had access to a pasture with eucalyptus woods, 19 were affected and 10 died. The clinical courses were 8-15 days and clinical signs included depression, weight loss, dehydration, drooling, loosening and loss of the long hairs of the tip of the tail, smoothening of the dorsal surface of the tongue with occasional ulceration, loosening of the corneal encasement of horns, hard and ball-shaped feces covered with a film of mucous, hypopion, hyphema and corneal opacity. Two calves had leucocytosis due to mild regenerative left shift. Nine calves were necropsied. Necropsy findings confirmed the clinical observation and additionaly included fibrinonecrotic esophagitis, mainly in the distal third of the esophageal mucosa. Histopathological changes in the skin of the tail included orthokeratotic hyperkeratosis; hair folicles with irregular contours, thickening of the tricolemmal keratin layer with occasional formation of keratin plugs, and degeneration and necrosis of the outer root sheath. At the laminar region of the hooves, there was hyperplasia of the top of epidermal laminae with irregular keratinization and retention of nuclei; several epidermal laminae were shortened and fused. There was hemorrhage, fibrin and neutrophilic infiltrate in the dermal laminae. In the mucosa of the tongue there was thinning of the covering epithelium, atrophy and loss of filiform papillae, multifocal areas of dyskeratosis, and spongiosis of the basal cell layer. In some parts the epithelium was lost and the surface consisted of granulation tissue and mixed inflammatory cell infiltrate. The esophageal mucosae of six calves had varying degree of epithelial necrosis and inflammation. The loss of the covering epithelium revealed an underneath area of granulation tissue with heavy inflammatory infiltrate composed predominantly of neutrophils and macrophages. In six calves there were focal symmetric bilateral areas of malacia observed at the level of obex in the medulla oblongata and affecting the white matter and parts of the dorsal nucleus of the vagus and of the hypoglossal nucleus. The epidemiology, clinical signs, pathology, and pathogenesis of poisoning by R. flavo-brunnescens in cattle are discussed.

Abstract in English:

García y Santos M.C., Schild A.L., Barros S.S., Riet-Correa F., Elias F. & Ramos A.T. 2004. [Perinatal lesions in cattle experimentally poisoned by Ateleia glazioviana (Leg. Papilionoideae).] Lesões perinatais em bovinos na intoxicação experimental por Ateleia glazio-viana (Leg.Papilionoideae). Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 24(3):178-184. Laboratório Regional de Diagnóstico, Faculdade de Veterinária, UFPel, Cx.Postal 354, Pelotas, RS 96010-900, Brazil. E-mail: alschild@terra.com.br Leaves of Ateleia glaziovian Baill., dried in a 100o C oven for 16-20 hours, were given to seven crossbred cows, always as bolus. Two of them received 9 g/kg at 4 months of pregnancy. Three cows in the 8th month of pregnancy received daily doses of 1-2 g/kg of the leaves, until a total amount of 10, 21 and 28 g/kg/bw was reached. Two 8-month-pregnant cows were fed 15.5 and 18 g/kg of the dried leaves. Two 4-month-pregnant cows were fed 35 g/kg of green leaves of A. glazioviana. The cow treated with 21 g/kg of the dry plant material showed clinical signs of poisoning and delivered a stillborn calf. No clinical signs were observed in the other cows. The calves from cows that received 9, 15.5 and 28 g/kg of the dried leaves showed weakness and suckling difficulties, and were killed. Whitish areas and thickening of the right ventricle wall of the heart were observed in the stillborn calf. Thickening of the wall of the right ventricle was also observed in the calf delivered by the cow treated with 28g/kg of dry plant. The other calves had no gross lesions. The histological changes in all necropsied calves were characterized by tumefaction and vacuolization of muscle fibers and proliferation of fibrous tissue, similar as occurred in spontaneous cases of fibrosis of the heart muscle in cattle poisoned by A. glazioviana. PAS stained slides revealed positive granules in the cardiomyocytes more evident than those of the control calf. The stillborn calf had mild spongiosis of the white matter of the cerebellum, thalamus and rostral colliculi. The ultrastructural pathology revealed cardiac fibers with large glycogen storage within myofibril bundles, which showed loss of bundles and disappearance of whole sarcomers. Mild glycogen storage was observed in a control calf.

• Poisonous plants plant poisoning Ateleia glazioviana Leguminosae Papilionoideae abortion cardiac fibrosis glycogenosis.

Abstract in Portuguese:

García y Santos M.C., Schild A.L., Barros S.S., Riet-Correa F., Elias F. & Ramos A.T. 2004. [Perinatal lesions in cattle experimentally poisoned by Ateleia glazioviana (Leg. Papilionoideae).] Lesões perinatais em bovinos na intoxicação experimental por Ateleia glazio-viana (Leg.Papilionoideae). Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 24(3):178-184. Laboratório Regional de Diagnóstico, Faculdade de Veterinária, UFPel, Cx.Postal 354, Pelotas, RS 96010-900, Brazil. E-mail: alschild@terra.com.br Leaves of Ateleia glaziovian Baill., dried in a 100o C oven for 16-20 hours, were given to seven crossbred cows, always as bolus. Two of them received 9 g/kg at 4 months of pregnancy. Three cows in the 8th month of pregnancy received daily doses of 1-2 g/kg of the leaves, until a total amount of 10, 21 and 28 g/kg/bw was reached. Two 8-month-pregnant cows were fed 15.5 and 18 g/kg of the dried leaves. Two 4-month-pregnant cows were fed 35 g/kg of green leaves of A. glazioviana. The cow treated with 21 g/kg of the dry plant material showed clinical signs of poisoning and delivered a stillborn calf. No clinical signs were observed in the other cows. The calves from cows that received 9, 15.5 and 28 g/kg of the dried leaves showed weakness and suckling difficulties, and were killed. Whitish areas and thickening of the right ventricle wall of the heart were observed in the stillborn calf. Thickening of the wall of the right ventricle was also observed in the calf delivered by the cow treated with 28g/kg of dry plant. The other calves had no gross lesions. The histological changes in all necropsied calves were characterized by tumefaction and vacuolization of muscle fibers and proliferation of fibrous tissue, similar as occurred in spontaneous cases of fibrosis of the heart muscle in cattle poisoned by A. glazioviana. PAS stained slides revealed positive granules in the cardiomyocytes more evident than those of the control calf. The stillborn calf had mild spongiosis of the white matter of the cerebellum, thalamus and rostral colliculi. The ultrastructural pathology revealed cardiac fibers with large glycogen storage within myofibril bundles, which showed loss of bundles and disappearance of whole sarcomers. Mild glycogen storage was observed in a control calf.

Abstract in English:

Karam F.S.C., Soares M.P., Haraguchi M., Riet-Correa F., Méndez M.C. & Jarenkow J.A. 2004. [Epidemiological aspects of seneciosis in southern Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.] Aspectos epidemiológicos da seneciose na região sul do Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 24(4):191-198. Laboratório de Toxicologia, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, URCAMP, Bagé, RS 96400-110, Brazil. E-mail: fernando@alternet.com.br Seneciosis is the main cause of livestock mortality due to poisonous plants in the State of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. This paper presents epidemiological data of 24 outbreaks in cattle and one in horses, diagnosed by the Regional Diagnostic Laboratory at Pelotas University in southern Rio Grande do Sul, from 1998 to 2000. Additionally, data of 54 outbreaks which occurred in 1978-1997 were analyzed. The farms where outbreaks occurred in 1998-2000 were visited to obtain clinical and epidemiological data and to verify the presence of Senecio spp. Eleven outbreaks (45.83%) affected cattle up to 3 years of age, and 13 (54.16%) cattle over 3 years. Nine (37.5%) outbreaks affected females and 15 (62.5%) males. Ten (41.66%) outbreaks occurred in spring, 4 (16.66%) in summer, 5 (20.83%) in autumn, and 5 (20.83%) in winter. Morbidity rate was estimated with 4.92% and case fatality with 95.59%. The predomionating Senecio species were S. brasiliensis on 12 farms (57.14%), S. selloi on 10 (47.61%), S. oxyphyllus on 6 (28.57%), S. heterotrichius on 3 (14.28%), and S. leptolobus on 1 farm (4.76%). The main clinical signs were progressive emaciation, incoordination, diarrhea, tenesmus, rectal prolapse and aggressiveness. The clinical manifestation periods of affected cattle observed during the farm visits, or of cattle sent for post-mortem examination,were 24-96 hours in 4 outbreaks (16.66%), 4-7 days in 7 (29.16%), 1-2 weeks in 4 (16.66%), 2-3 weeks in 2 (8.33%), 1-2 months in 2 (8.33%), and 2-3 months in 1 outbreak (4.16%). In 4 outbreaks (16.66%) the clinical manifestation period was not established. In outbreaks with longer clinical manifestation periods some animals showed photosensitization. The main necropsy findings were a hard and enlarged liver, distended gall bladder, edema of the mesenterium and abomasum, and increased amount of liquid in the cavities. Histopathological findings were fibroplasia, megalocytosis and biliary ductal proliferation of the liver, and spongy degeneration of the cerebral white matter. Samples of different Senecio species, in different seasons, were analyzed for detection of pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs) by thin layer chromatography. Retrorsine was found in Senecio brasiliensis, S. heterotrichius, S. selloi and S. oxyphyllus. In S. brasiliensis and S. heterotrichius one and two more non-identified PAs were detected, respectively. The total PAs concentration by spectrophotometric method was 0.25% for S. brasiliensis, 0.19% for S. heterotrichius, 0.03% for S. oxyphyllus, and 0.03% for S. selloi. The highest PAs concentration occurred in winter (June/July). No alkaloids were found in samples of S. leptolobus. These results show that S. brasiliensis is the most important cause of seneciosis in southern Rio Grande do Sul. Additional data obtained dealt with 54 outbreaks of PAs poisoning in 1978-1997. During this period, 7 outbreaks (12.96%) affected cattle up to 3 years of age, 39 (72.22%) cattle over 3 years, and 3 outbreaks (5.55%) affected cattle of different ages. In 5 outbreaks (9.25%) the age was not informed. Seven outbreaks (12.96%) affected males, 39 (72.22%) females, 3 (5.55%) both sexes, and in 5 outbreaks (9.25%) the sex was not informed. Twenty-three outbreaks (42.59%) occurred in spring, 9 (16.66%) in summer, 9 (16.66%) in autumn, and 13 (24.07%) in winter. The greater number of outbreaks during 1998-2000 (24 outbreaks in 3 years) in regard to 1978-1997 (54 outbreaks in 20 years) is probably due to a decrease of more than 50% in the number of sheep in the region.

• Seneciosis epidemiology poisonous plants Senecio spp Asteraceae pyrrolizidine alkaloids cattle.

Abstract in Portuguese:

Karam F.S.C., Soares M.P., Haraguchi M., Riet-Correa F., Méndez M.C. & Jarenkow J.A. 2004. [Epidemiological aspects of seneciosis in southern Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil.] Aspectos epidemiológicos da seneciose na região sul do Rio Grande do Sul, Brasil. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 24(4):191-198. Laboratório de Toxicologia, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária, URCAMP, Bagé, RS 96400-110, Brazil. E-mail: fernando@alternet.com.br Seneciosis is the main cause of livestock mortality due to poisonous plants in the State of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. This paper presents epidemiological data of 24 outbreaks in cattle and one in horses, diagnosed by the Regional Diagnostic Laboratory at Pelotas University in southern Rio Grande do Sul, from 1998 to 2000. Additionally, data of 54 outbreaks which occurred in 1978-1997 were analyzed. The farms where outbreaks occurred in 1998-2000 were visited to obtain clinical and epidemiological data and to verify the presence of Senecio spp. Eleven outbreaks (45.83%) affected cattle up to 3 years of age, and 13 (54.16%) cattle over 3 years. Nine (37.5%) outbreaks affected females and 15 (62.5%) males. Ten (41.66%) outbreaks occurred in spring, 4 (16.66%) in summer, 5 (20.83%) in autumn, and 5 (20.83%) in winter. Morbidity rate was estimated with 4.92% and case fatality with 95.59%. The predomionating Senecio species were S. brasiliensis on 12 farms (57.14%), S. selloi on 10 (47.61%), S. oxyphyllus on 6 (28.57%), S. heterotrichius on 3 (14.28%), and S. leptolobus on 1 farm (4.76%). The main clinical signs were progressive emaciation, incoordination, diarrhea, tenesmus, rectal prolapse and aggressiveness. The clinical manifestation periods of affected cattle observed during the farm visits, or of cattle sent for post-mortem examination,were 24-96 hours in 4 outbreaks (16.66%), 4-7 days in 7 (29.16%), 1-2 weeks in 4 (16.66%), 2-3 weeks in 2 (8.33%), 1-2 months in 2 (8.33%), and 2-3 months in 1 outbreak (4.16%). In 4 outbreaks (16.66%) the clinical manifestation period was not established. In outbreaks with longer clinical manifestation periods some animals showed photosensitization. The main necropsy findings were a hard and enlarged liver, distended gall bladder, edema of the mesenterium and abomasum, and increased amount of liquid in the cavities. Histopathological findings were fibroplasia, megalocytosis and biliary ductal proliferation of the liver, and spongy degeneration of the cerebral white matter. Samples of different Senecio species, in different seasons, were analyzed for detection of pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs) by thin layer chromatography. Retrorsine was found in Senecio brasiliensis, S. heterotrichius, S. selloi and S. oxyphyllus. In S. brasiliensis and S. heterotrichius one and two more non-identified PAs were detected, respectively. The total PAs concentration by spectrophotometric method was 0.25% for S. brasiliensis, 0.19% for S. heterotrichius, 0.03% for S. oxyphyllus, and 0.03% for S. selloi. The highest PAs concentration occurred in winter (June/July). No alkaloids were found in samples of S. leptolobus. These results show that S. brasiliensis is the most important cause of seneciosis in southern Rio Grande do Sul. Additional data obtained dealt with 54 outbreaks of PAs poisoning in 1978-1997. During this period, 7 outbreaks (12.96%) affected cattle up to 3 years of age, 39 (72.22%) cattle over 3 years, and 3 outbreaks (5.55%) affected cattle of different ages. In 5 outbreaks (9.25%) the age was not informed. Seven outbreaks (12.96%) affected males, 39 (72.22%) females, 3 (5.55%) both sexes, and in 5 outbreaks (9.25%) the sex was not informed. Twenty-three outbreaks (42.59%) occurred in spring, 9 (16.66%) in summer, 9 (16.66%) in autumn, and 13 (24.07%) in winter. The greater number of outbreaks during 1998-2000 (24 outbreaks in 3 years) in regard to 1978-1997 (54 outbreaks in 20 years) is probably due to a decrease of more than 50% in the number of sheep in the region.