PESQUISA VETERINÁRIA BRASILEIRA

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Ferreira L.C.L., Flores E.F., Driemeier D., Melo O. & Lemos R.A.A. 2008. [Mucosal disease associated with generalized dermatitis in cattle, Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil.] Doença das mucosas associada à dermatite generalizada em bovinos, Mato Grosso do Sul. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(6):285-292. Departamento de Medicina Veterinária, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso do Sul, Av. Senador Filinto Müller 2443, Campo Grande, MS 79070-900, Brazil. E-mail: eqrural@nin.ufms.br This paper reports epidemiological, clinical, pathological and laboratory diagnostic aspects of a form of dermatitis associated with mucosal disease (MD) in cattle. It also focuses on the methods used for identifying persistently infected (PI) animals and on the impact of the disease on fertility and weaning rates in the affected herd. Cases of dermatitis associated with MD were diagnosed in two 12 and 24-month-old Nelore calves belonging to a beef cattle farm that operates the full cycle of production (calving, rearing, finishing) in Mato Grosso do Sul, Midwest Brazil. The clinical signs exhibited by affected cattle 0included slow, progressive weight loss; formation of diffuse skin crusts in multiple body areas; skin dryness; multiple ulcerations on the gums and dorsal surface of the tongue which evolved to longitudinal fissures; formation of keratinized projections; and detachment of hoof horn. In addition, diarrhea affected one animal in the late stage of the disease. Necropsies also revealed longitudinal erosions in the esophagus. Histological examination showed coagulation necrosis foci in esophageal and lingual mucosae, with neutrophil and lymphocyte infiltration. Skin lesions consisted of epidermal coagulation necrosis associated with neutrophil infiltration and hyperkeratosis. In both cases, clinical diagnosis was confirmed by the isolation and identification of cytopathic and noncytopathic biotypes of the bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) and immunohistochemical detection of viral antigens in formalin fixed tissues. Out of 300 cattle that had contact with the affected animals, 38 were found to be seropositive - in high neutralizing titers - to BVDV. Blood samples from 1,025 young animals and 40 bulls from the farm were examined for the presence of BVDV to identify potential PI animals. The virus was isolated from blood of three calves in the initial test and, 12 months later, from two of them which had remained on the farm. Only one of these calves was found to be BVDV-positive by immuno-histochemical testing performed on ear-tissue samples. In the year following the birth of PI calves, the herd underwent decreases in fertility and weaning rates, which later returned to their previous levels. The resulting data demonstrate the presence of BVDV infection in beef herds in Mato Grosso do Sul and provide evidence as to include the disease in the differential diagnosis of causes of generalized dermatitis in cattle.

• Bovine viral diarrhea virus mucosal disease cattle diseases viral diseases dermatitis

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Ferreira L.C.L., Flores E.F., Driemeier D., Melo O. & Lemos R.A.A. 2008. [Mucosal disease associated with generalized dermatitis in cattle, Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil.] Doença das mucosas associada à dermatite generalizada em bovinos, Mato Grosso do Sul. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(6):285-292. Departamento de Medicina Veterinária, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso do Sul, Av. Senador Filinto Müller 2443, Campo Grande, MS 79070-900, Brazil. E-mail: eqrural@nin.ufms.br This paper reports epidemiological, clinical, pathological and laboratory diagnostic aspects of a form of dermatitis associated with mucosal disease (MD) in cattle. It also focuses on the methods used for identifying persistently infected (PI) animals and on the impact of the disease on fertility and weaning rates in the affected herd. Cases of dermatitis associated with MD were diagnosed in two 12 and 24-month-old Nelore calves belonging to a beef cattle farm that operates the full cycle of production (calving, rearing, finishing) in Mato Grosso do Sul, Midwest Brazil. The clinical signs exhibited by affected cattle 0included slow, progressive weight loss; formation of diffuse skin crusts in multiple body areas; skin dryness; multiple ulcerations on the gums and dorsal surface of the tongue which evolved to longitudinal fissures; formation of keratinized projections; and detachment of hoof horn. In addition, diarrhea affected one animal in the late stage of the disease. Necropsies also revealed longitudinal erosions in the esophagus. Histological examination showed coagulation necrosis foci in esophageal and lingual mucosae, with neutrophil and lymphocyte infiltration. Skin lesions consisted of epidermal coagulation necrosis associated with neutrophil infiltration and hyperkeratosis. In both cases, clinical diagnosis was confirmed by the isolation and identification of cytopathic and noncytopathic biotypes of the bovine viral diarrhea virus (BVDV) and immunohistochemical detection of viral antigens in formalin fixed tissues. Out of 300 cattle that had contact with the affected animals, 38 were found to be seropositive - in high neutralizing titers - to BVDV. Blood samples from 1,025 young animals and 40 bulls from the farm were examined for the presence of BVDV to identify potential PI animals. The virus was isolated from blood of three calves in the initial test and, 12 months later, from two of them which had remained on the farm. Only one of these calves was found to be BVDV-positive by immuno-histochemical testing performed on ear-tissue samples. In the year following the birth of PI calves, the herd underwent decreases in fertility and weaning rates, which later returned to their previous levels. The resulting data demonstrate the presence of BVDV infection in beef herds in Mato Grosso do Sul and provide evidence as to include the disease in the differential diagnosis of causes of generalized dermatitis in cattle.

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.- Martins C.F., Madruga C.R., Koller W.W., Araújo F.R., Soares C.O., Kessler R.H., Melo E.S.P., Rios L.R., Almeida R.C.F., Lima Jr M.S.C., Barros A.T.M. & Marques L.C. 2008. Trypanosoma vivax infection dynamics in a cattle herd maintained in a transition area between Pantanal lowlands and highlands of Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(1):51-56. Departamento de Clínica Médica da Universidade para o Desenvolvimento do Estado e da Região do Pantanal, Rua Ceará 333, Bairro Miguel Couto, Cx. Postal 2153, Campo Grande, MS 79003-010, Brazil. E-mail: claudio.madruga@pq.cnpq.br Trypanosoma vivax outbreaks in beef cattle in the Pantanal region of Mato Grosso do Sul state, Brazil, causes relevant economical impact due to weight loss, abortion and mortality. Cattle moved from the Pantanal to adjacent areas of this ecosystem for breeding and fattening is a common feature. Therefore an epidemiological study on breeding cows in the transition area between Pantanal lowland and adjacent highlands of Mato Grosso do Sul was performed to determine the T. vivax infection dynamics and outbreak risk. Three experimental groups were formed: Group 1 consisted of cows parasitologically negative by the Woo test and in the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay for T. vivax antibody detection (Tv-ELISA-Ab); Group 2 parasitologically negative and positive in the Tv-ELISA-Ab; and in Group 3 cows were parasitologically positive and with positive reactions in the Tv-ELISA-Ab. During 24 months, the cows’ dislodgment between the above established groups was monitored by Woo test and Tv-ELISA-Ab exams. The tabanid population was also monitored and the highest number occurred during the rainy season. Although parasitemias were detected only in the first four samplings of the experimental period, the cows could be considered as trypanotolerant, because no clinical signs were observed. Despite the higher T. vivax incidence during the dry season, no disease symptoms were seen. Even though T. vivax epidemiological situation in the herd was characterized as endemic with seasonal variation, the probability of outbreaks was null within the conditions of the study.

• Trypanosoma (Dutonella) vivax cattle tabanids infection dynamics epidemiology

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Martins C.F., Madruga C.R., Koller W.W., Araújo F.R., Soares C.O., Kessler R.H., Melo E.S.P., Rios L.R., Almeida R.C.F., Lima Jr M.S.C., Barros A.T.M. & Marques L.C. 2008. Trypanosoma vivax infection dynamics in a cattle herd maintained in a transition area between Pantanal lowlands and highlands of Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(1):51-56. Departamento de Clínica Médica da Universidade para o Desenvolvimento do Estado e da Região do Pantanal, Rua Ceará 333, Bairro Miguel Couto, Cx. Postal 2153, Campo Grande, MS 79003-010, Brazil. E-mail: claudio.madruga@pq.cnpq.br Trypanosoma vivax outbreaks in beef cattle in the Pantanal region of Mato Grosso do Sul state, Brazil, causes relevant economical impact due to weight loss, abortion and mortality. Cattle moved from the Pantanal to adjacent areas of this ecosystem for breeding and fattening is a common feature. Therefore an epidemiological study on breeding cows in the transition area between Pantanal lowland and adjacent highlands of Mato Grosso do Sul was performed to determine the T. vivax infection dynamics and outbreak risk. Three experimental groups were formed: Group 1 consisted of cows parasitologically negative by the Woo test and in the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay for T. vivax antibody detection (Tv-ELISA-Ab); Group 2 parasitologically negative and positive in the Tv-ELISA-Ab; and in Group 3 cows were parasitologically positive and with positive reactions in the Tv-ELISA-Ab. During 24 months, the cows’ dislodgment between the above established groups was monitored by Woo test and Tv-ELISA-Ab exams. The tabanid population was also monitored and the highest number occurred during the rainy season. Although parasitemias were detected only in the first four samplings of the experimental period, the cows could be considered as trypanotolerant, because no clinical signs were observed. Despite the higher T. vivax incidence during the dry season, no disease symptoms were seen. Even though T. vivax epidemiological situation in the herd was characterized as endemic with seasonal variation, the probability of outbreaks was null within the conditions of the study.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Boabaid F.M., Ferreira E.V., Arruda L.P., Gasparetto N.D., Souza R.L., Silva M.C., Dutra V., Nakazato L. & Colodel E.M. 2008. [Conidiobolomycosis in sheep in the state of Mato Grosso, Brazil.] Conidiobolomicose em ovinos no Estado de Mato Grosso. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(1):77-81. Departamento de Clínica Médica Veterinária, Faculdade de Agronomia e Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso, Av. Fernando Correia da Costa s/n, Bairro Coxipó, Cuiabá, MT 78068-900, Brasil. E-mail: moleta@ufmt.br The epidemiological, clinical, pathological and mycological findings of an outbreak of conidiobolomycosis in a flock of 40 Santa Ines sheep, in the state of Mato Grosso, Brazil, are reported. The illness occurred in the municipality of Nobres during January-June, 2007, resulting in death of about 30% of the affected sheep within 2-5 weeks. The clinical signs were characterized by apathy, weight loss, labored and noisy breathing with dyspnea, and mucous or serohemorrhagic nasal discharge. In three sheep there was unilateral exophthalmia, keratitis and corneal ulceration. A firm whitish, multi-lobulated, friable growth was evident in the ethmoturbinate region at the coronal sections of the head from six affected sheep. In all sheep the choana had similar nodular infiltration which resulted in local obstruction. In three of those there was exophthalmia. There was infiltration in the cribiform plate and brain (2 cases), regional lymph nodes (2), lungs (3), and abomasums (1). Microscopic findings were granulomatous inflammation of the rhinoetimoidal region, with necrosis, lymphocytic infiltration, epithelioid multinucleated giant cells and fibrovascular tissue, surrounding Splendore-Hoeppli material wich contained unstained ghost images of hyphae. The methenamine-silver stain uncover fungi hyphae, rarely ramified with bulbous dilatation in their extremities. Conidiobolus sp. was isolated from nasal tissue lesions of four sheep.

• Conidiobolomycosis sheep granulomatous rhinitis Conidiobolus sp.

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Boabaid F.M., Ferreira E.V., Arruda L.P., Gasparetto N.D., Souza R.L., Silva M.C., Dutra V., Nakazato L. & Colodel E.M. 2008. [Conidiobolomycosis in sheep in the state of Mato Grosso, Brazil.] Conidiobolomicose em ovinos no Estado de Mato Grosso. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(1):77-81. Departamento de Clínica Médica Veterinária, Faculdade de Agronomia e Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso, Av. Fernando Correia da Costa s/n, Bairro Coxipó, Cuiabá, MT 78068-900, Brasil. E-mail: moleta@ufmt.br The epidemiological, clinical, pathological and mycological findings of an outbreak of conidiobolomycosis in a flock of 40 Santa Ines sheep, in the state of Mato Grosso, Brazil, are reported. The illness occurred in the municipality of Nobres during January-June, 2007, resulting in death of about 30% of the affected sheep within 2-5 weeks. The clinical signs were characterized by apathy, weight loss, labored and noisy breathing with dyspnea, and mucous or serohemorrhagic nasal discharge. In three sheep there was unilateral exophthalmia, keratitis and corneal ulceration. A firm whitish, multi-lobulated, friable growth was evident in the ethmoturbinate region at the coronal sections of the head from six affected sheep. In all sheep the choana had similar nodular infiltration which resulted in local obstruction. In three of those there was exophthalmia. There was infiltration in the cribiform plate and brain (2 cases), regional lymph nodes (2), lungs (3), and abomasums (1). Microscopic findings were granulomatous inflammation of the rhinoetimoidal region, with necrosis, lymphocytic infiltration, epithelioid multinucleated giant cells and fibrovascular tissue, surrounding Splendore-Hoeppli material wich contained unstained ghost images of hyphae. The methenamine-silver stain uncover fungi hyphae, rarely ramified with bulbous dilatation in their extremities. Conidiobolus sp. was isolated from nasal tissue lesions of four sheep.

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.- Monteiro L.A.R.C., Pellegrin A.O., Ishikawa M.M. & Osório A.L.A.R. 2006. [Epidemiological investigation of bovine brucellosis in an extract of Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil.] Investigação epidemiológica da brucelose bovina em um estrato do Estado de Mato Grosso do Sul. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(4):217-222. Programa Mestrado em Ciência Animal, Universidade Federal do Mato Grosso do Sul, Campo Grande, MS 79070-900, Brazil. E-mail: leticiacmonteiro@yahoo.com.br The study aimed to estimate the prevalence of bovine brucellosis in 22 counties which make up the region Extract 1 of the State of Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil, in order to identify risk factors associated with the infection. The sample region encompasses an area of 70,214.1 km² and represents 19.7% of the State. The region studied has about 5.7 million head of cattle, corresponding to 23% of the total of 24.9 million cattle in the State of Mato Grosso do Sul. On 210 farms, between December 2003 and March 2004, 2,376 blood samples were collected from cows, aged 24 months or older, for serial diagnostic tests. Screening through the buffered acidified antigen test was confirmed by the 2-mercaptoetanol test. On the occasion of sample collection a questionnaire with information related to identification, kind of cattle and management practices was filled out. In individual animals the real prevalence was estimated at 5.6%, and in the cattle herds at 37.3%. The variables, which presented association through odds ratio (OR), univariate analysis and 95% confidence interval (CI) with serum positivity for brucellosis, were: the exploration of beef cattle (OR = 2.82, 95% CI = 1.49-5.34), Zebu breed (OR = 2.62, 95% CI = 1.40-4.88) and abortion (OR = 1.83, 95% CI = 1.01-3.33). The results shown here demonstrate, despite the prevalence of brucellosis in the extract of Mato Grosso do Sul studied, that the control of the disease may depend on adoption of a program focusing upon the exploration of beef cattle, the Zebu breed and the occurrence of abortion.

• Brucellosis cattle epidemiology seroprevalence

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Monteiro L.A.R.C., Pellegrin A.O., Ishikawa M.M. & Osório A.L.A.R. 2006. [Epidemiological investigation of bovine brucellosis in an extract of Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil.] Investigação epidemiológica da brucelose bovina em um estrato do Estado de Mato Grosso do Sul. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(4):217-222. Programa Mestrado em Ciência Animal, Universidade Federal do Mato Grosso do Sul, Campo Grande, MS 79070-900, Brazil. E-mail: leticiacmonteiro@yahoo.com.br The study aimed to estimate the prevalence of bovine brucellosis in 22 counties which make up the region Extract 1 of the State of Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil, in order to identify risk factors associated with the infection. The sample region encompasses an area of 70,214.1 km² and represents 19.7% of the State. The region studied has about 5.7 million head of cattle, corresponding to 23% of the total of 24.9 million cattle in the State of Mato Grosso do Sul. On 210 farms, between December 2003 and March 2004, 2,376 blood samples were collected from cows, aged 24 months or older, for serial diagnostic tests. Screening through the buffered acidified antigen test was confirmed by the 2-mercaptoetanol test. On the occasion of sample collection a questionnaire with information related to identification, kind of cattle and management practices was filled out. In individual animals the real prevalence was estimated at 5.6%, and in the cattle herds at 37.3%. The variables, which presented association through odds ratio (OR), univariate analysis and 95% confidence interval (CI) with serum positivity for brucellosis, were: the exploration of beef cattle (OR = 2.82, 95% CI = 1.49-5.34), Zebu breed (OR = 2.62, 95% CI = 1.40-4.88) and abortion (OR = 1.83, 95% CI = 1.01-3.33). The results shown here demonstrate, despite the prevalence of brucellosis in the extract of Mato Grosso do Sul studied, that the control of the disease may depend on adoption of a program focusing upon the exploration of beef cattle, the Zebu breed and the occurrence of abortion.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Peres M.F., Carrijo A.S., Higa A.H. & Oliveira J.M. 2006. [Serological evidence of avian pneumovirus infections in broiler flocks in counties of Mato Grosso do Sul.] Evidência sorológica de Pneumovírus aviário em lotes de frangos de corte em municípios de Mato Grosso do Sul. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(4):254-258. Departamento de Zootecnia, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso do Sul (UFMS), Av. Filinto Müller 2443, Campo Grande, MS 79070-900, Brazil. E-mail: acarrijo@nin.ufms.br Avian pneumovirus (APV) is an important respiratory pathogen of hens and broilers. Although it was not clearly elucidated whether APV may cause economical losses in broiler flocks, it is known that APV infection can induce specific antibody production on these birds, and these serological reactions may provide some information about the epidemiological status of the APV infections. This work was carried out in search for antibodies to APV in broiler flocks in counties of Mato Grosso do Sul. Five hundred and thirty six serum samples from 54 broiler flocks at 42 and 51 days of age were tested with a commercially available enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The results showed that 330 samples (61.6%) were negative, 108 (20.1%) were suspect and 98 (18.3%) were considered positive for the presence to APV antibodies. Of all the flocks analyzed, 49 (90.7%) were considered either positive or suspect. The ELISA test demonstrated that there was a similar percentage of positive or suspect flocks among those flocks between 42 and 46 days of age, and among those between 47 and 51 days. No seasonal differences were observed, since the percentages of positive or suspect flocks either in summer or in winter months were similar. Most of the flocks were considered positive despite the type of broiler housing (conventional, environmental controlled or semi-controlled). It is concluded that there are strong evidences indicating circulation of APV in Mato Grosso do Sul. The percentages of positive flocks were similar regardless of the age groups of the birds examined, the type of broiler housing and the season when sampling was performed.

• Antibody diagnosis epidemiology avian pneumovirus PVA swollen head syndrome

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Peres M.F., Carrijo A.S., Higa A.H. & Oliveira J.M. 2006. [Serological evidence of avian pneumovirus infections in broiler flocks in counties of Mato Grosso do Sul.] Evidência sorológica de Pneumovírus aviário em lotes de frangos de corte em municípios de Mato Grosso do Sul. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(4):254-258. Departamento de Zootecnia, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso do Sul (UFMS), Av. Filinto Müller 2443, Campo Grande, MS 79070-900, Brazil. E-mail: acarrijo@nin.ufms.br Avian pneumovirus (APV) is an important respiratory pathogen of hens and broilers. Although it was not clearly elucidated whether APV may cause economical losses in broiler flocks, it is known that APV infection can induce specific antibody production on these birds, and these serological reactions may provide some information about the epidemiological status of the APV infections. This work was carried out in search for antibodies to APV in broiler flocks in counties of Mato Grosso do Sul. Five hundred and thirty six serum samples from 54 broiler flocks at 42 and 51 days of age were tested with a commercially available enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The results showed that 330 samples (61.6%) were negative, 108 (20.1%) were suspect and 98 (18.3%) were considered positive for the presence to APV antibodies. Of all the flocks analyzed, 49 (90.7%) were considered either positive or suspect. The ELISA test demonstrated that there was a similar percentage of positive or suspect flocks among those flocks between 42 and 46 days of age, and among those between 47 and 51 days. No seasonal differences were observed, since the percentages of positive or suspect flocks either in summer or in winter months were similar. Most of the flocks were considered positive despite the type of broiler housing (conventional, environmental controlled or semi-controlled). It is concluded that there are strong evidences indicating circulation of APV in Mato Grosso do Sul. The percentages of positive flocks were similar regardless of the age groups of the birds examined, the type of broiler housing and the season when sampling was performed.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Carvalho N.M., Alonso L.A., Cunha T.G., Ravedutti J., Barros C.S.L. & Lemos R.A.A. 2006. [Poisoning of cattle by Tetrapterys multiglandulosa in Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil.] Intoxicação de bovinos por Tetrapterys multiglandulosa (Malpighiaceae) em Mato Grosso do Sul. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(3):139-146. Departamento de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso do Sul, Avenida Senador Filinto Müller 2443, Caixa Postal 549, Campo Grande, MS 79070-900, Brazil. E-mail: eqrural@nin.ufms.br Two outbreaks of poisoning by Tetrapterys multiglandulosa in cattle and the experimental reproduction of the toxicosis in sheep are described. Both outbreaks occurred on the same farm in the municipality of Bataiporã, state of Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil. The first outbreak occurred in July-October 2004 and involved a cattle population at risk of 290 pregnant cows, which were introduced into a 60 hectare pasture with a legal reservation area heavily infested by T. multiglandulosa. Of these, 230 cows (79.3%) aborted, had stillbirths or delivered weak calves that died few days after birth. Seven cows died, and one cow and a 10-day-old calf were necropsied. The second outbreak occurred in September-October 2005, 40 days after 285 2-year-old heifers were introduced into the same pasture infested by T. multiglandulosa and where the first outbreak had occurred in the previous year. Nine heifers got sick and died, and three of then were necropsied. Clinical signs of affected cattle, including a 10-day-old calf, were marked lethargy, loss of weight with distension of the abdomen (ascites), subcutaneous dependant edema, distended and pulsating jugular veins, dyspnea and cardiac arrhythmia. Necropsy findings included a round and dilated heart with whitish and firm areas in the myocardium, and changes related to cardiac failure such as cavitary edema, nutmeg liver, pulmonary edema, a large blood clot in the left ventricle. Histopathological changes included necrosis and fibrosis in the myocardium, chronic passive hepatic centrolobular congestion, pulmonary edema, and spongy degeneration in the white matter of the brain. Experimental sheep died 29 (Sheep 1) and 35 (Sheep 2) days after being fed average daily doses of T. multiglandulosa corresponding to 14g/kg (Sheep 1) and 7,5 g/kg (Sheep 2) per day. Clinical signs were observed from the 7th day (Sheep1) and the 4th day (Sheep 2) of the experiment and included tachycardia, arrhythmia, lethargy and head pressing. Necropsy and histopathologic findings in both experimental sheep were very similar to those observed in affected cattle of the two spontaneous outbreaks.

• Poisonous plants Tetrapterys multiglandulosa Malpighiaceae plant poisoning cardiomiopathy abortion diseases of cattle pathology

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Carvalho N.M., Alonso L.A., Cunha T.G., Ravedutti J., Barros C.S.L. & Lemos R.A.A. 2006. [Poisoning of cattle by Tetrapterys multiglandulosa in Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil.] Intoxicação de bovinos por Tetrapterys multiglandulosa (Malpighiaceae) em Mato Grosso do Sul. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(3):139-146. Departamento de Medicina Veterinária, Universidade Federal de Mato Grosso do Sul, Avenida Senador Filinto Müller 2443, Caixa Postal 549, Campo Grande, MS 79070-900, Brazil. E-mail: eqrural@nin.ufms.br Two outbreaks of poisoning by Tetrapterys multiglandulosa in cattle and the experimental reproduction of the toxicosis in sheep are described. Both outbreaks occurred on the same farm in the municipality of Bataiporã, state of Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil. The first outbreak occurred in July-October 2004 and involved a cattle population at risk of 290 pregnant cows, which were introduced into a 60 hectare pasture with a legal reservation area heavily infested by T. multiglandulosa. Of these, 230 cows (79.3%) aborted, had stillbirths or delivered weak calves that died few days after birth. Seven cows died, and one cow and a 10-day-old calf were necropsied. The second outbreak occurred in September-October 2005, 40 days after 285 2-year-old heifers were introduced into the same pasture infested by T. multiglandulosa and where the first outbreak had occurred in the previous year. Nine heifers got sick and died, and three of then were necropsied. Clinical signs of affected cattle, including a 10-day-old calf, were marked lethargy, loss of weight with distension of the abdomen (ascites), subcutaneous dependant edema, distended and pulsating jugular veins, dyspnea and cardiac arrhythmia. Necropsy findings included a round and dilated heart with whitish and firm areas in the myocardium, and changes related to cardiac failure such as cavitary edema, nutmeg liver, pulmonary edema, a large blood clot in the left ventricle. Histopathological changes included necrosis and fibrosis in the myocardium, chronic passive hepatic centrolobular congestion, pulmonary edema, and spongy degeneration in the white matter of the brain. Experimental sheep died 29 (Sheep 1) and 35 (Sheep 2) days after being fed average daily doses of T. multiglandulosa corresponding to 14g/kg (Sheep 1) and 7,5 g/kg (Sheep 2) per day. Clinical signs were observed from the 7th day (Sheep1) and the 4th day (Sheep 2) of the experiment and included tachycardia, arrhythmia, lethargy and head pressing. Necropsy and histopathologic findings in both experimental sheep were very similar to those observed in affected cattle of the two spontaneous outbreaks.

Abstract in English:

Rodrigues A., Fighera R.A., Souza T.M., Schild A.L., Soares M.P., Milano J. & Barros C.S.L. 2005. [Outbreaks of trypanosomiasis in horses by Trypanosoma evansi in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil: epidemiological, clinical, hematological, and pathological aspects.] Surtos de tripanossomíase por Trypanosoma evansi em eqüinos no Rio Grande do Sul: aspectos epidemiológicos, clínicos, hematológicos e patológicos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 25(4):239-249. Depto Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900 Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: claudioslbarros@uol.com.br Cases of trypanosomiasis by Trypanosoma evansi were diagnosed in horses in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, between 2003 and 2004. In one stud farm (Farm A) with 125 horses, 52 died. Additionally, around 80 mares were sent to Farm A to be bred. Of those, 66 became ill and 56 died after being returned to their farms of origin. Twenty one horses clinically affected by the disease were observed. Clinical signs included loss of weight (despite voracious appetite), lethargy, incoordination and instability of hindlimbs, atrophy of the large muscles of the hindlimbs, muscle weakness and paleness of mucosae. Specimens of T. evansi were detected in the blood drawn from four affected horses. Normocytic normochromic anemia with PCVs ranging from 15 to 31%, leucocytosis due to lymphocytosis associated to large atypical lymphocytes was observed in several affected horses. High levels of antibodies against T. evansi were detected in the serum of six horses from Farm A. Eight horses presented encephalic neurological signs such as circling, ataxia, blindness, excitation, falls, listlessness, proprioception deficits and head tilt. One horse assumed a “dog-seating position”. Necropsy findings included muscle atrophy, enlargement and lymphoid hyperplasia of the spleen and lymphnodes, edema and softening of the white and grey matter of the brain. Histologically, an overwhelming necrotizing panencephalitis was observed in the seven horses with encephalic signs. This panencephalitis was characterized by marked edema, demyelination and necrosis and perivascular infiltrates of 6-10 layers of lymphocytes and plasm cells affecting both the white and gray matter. Several plasm cells in the inflammatory infiltrate contained numerous eosinophilic globules in their cytoplasm (Mott cells). Similar histological lesions were observed in the spinal cord of the horse with the “dog-seating position”. The brains of five horses with the encephalic signs were submitted to immunohistochemistry stain by the streptavidin-biotin technique. In all of those five brains moderate to abundant specimens of T. evansi in the perivascular spaces and neuropile were marked by the specific antibody. Epidemiological, clinical, hematological, and pathological aspects of equine trypanosomiasis caused by T. evansi are discussed.

• Trypanosomiasis Trypanosoma evansi infectious diseases encephalitis hematology pathology diseases of horses.

Abstract in Portuguese:

Rodrigues A., Fighera R.A., Souza T.M., Schild A.L., Soares M.P., Milano J. & Barros C.S.L. 2005. [Outbreaks of trypanosomiasis in horses by Trypanosoma evansi in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil: epidemiological, clinical, hematological, and pathological aspects.] Surtos de tripanossomíase por Trypanosoma evansi em eqüinos no Rio Grande do Sul: aspectos epidemiológicos, clínicos, hematológicos e patológicos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 25(4):239-249. Depto Patologia, Universidade Federal de Santa Maria, 97105-900 Santa Maria, RS, Brazil. E-mail: claudioslbarros@uol.com.br Cases of trypanosomiasis by Trypanosoma evansi were diagnosed in horses in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, between 2003 and 2004. In one stud farm (Farm A) with 125 horses, 52 died. Additionally, around 80 mares were sent to Farm A to be bred. Of those, 66 became ill and 56 died after being returned to their farms of origin. Twenty one horses clinically affected by the disease were observed. Clinical signs included loss of weight (despite voracious appetite), lethargy, incoordination and instability of hindlimbs, atrophy of the large muscles of the hindlimbs, muscle weakness and paleness of mucosae. Specimens of T. evansi were detected in the blood drawn from four affected horses. Normocytic normochromic anemia with PCVs ranging from 15 to 31%, leucocytosis due to lymphocytosis associated to large atypical lymphocytes was observed in several affected horses. High levels of antibodies against T. evansi were detected in the serum of six horses from Farm A. Eight horses presented encephalic neurological signs such as circling, ataxia, blindness, excitation, falls, listlessness, proprioception deficits and head tilt. One horse assumed a “dog-seating position”. Necropsy findings included muscle atrophy, enlargement and lymphoid hyperplasia of the spleen and lymphnodes, edema and softening of the white and grey matter of the brain. Histologically, an overwhelming necrotizing panencephalitis was observed in the seven horses with encephalic signs. This panencephalitis was characterized by marked edema, demyelination and necrosis and perivascular infiltrates of 6-10 layers of lymphocytes and plasm cells affecting both the white and gray matter. Several plasm cells in the inflammatory infiltrate contained numerous eosinophilic globules in their cytoplasm (Mott cells). Similar histological lesions were observed in the spinal cord of the horse with the “dog-seating position”. The brains of five horses with the encephalic signs were submitted to immunohistochemistry stain by the streptavidin-biotin technique. In all of those five brains moderate to abundant specimens of T. evansi in the perivascular spaces and neuropile were marked by the specific antibody. Epidemiological, clinical, hematological, and pathological aspects of equine trypanosomiasis caused by T. evansi are discussed.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Gomes P.R., Koller W.W., Gomes A., Carvalho C.J.B. & Zorzatto J.R. 2002. [Fanniid diptera vectors of Dermatobia hominis eggs in Campo Grande, MS, Brazil.] Dípteros fanídeos de ovos de Dermatobia hominis em Campo Grande, Mato Grosso do Sul. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 22 (3):114-118. Laboratório de Ectoparasitologia, Embrapa Gado de Corte, BR 262 Km 4, Cx. Postal 154, Campo Grande, MS 79002-970, Brazil. This study was undertaken to determine the epidemiological importance of fanniid flies on warble fly infestations. The local species of Fanniidae as well as those utilized by Dermatobia hominis to carry its eggs were identitied, and the population dynamics of the most abundant species were studied. In order to accomplish this task, five traps with rotten bovine liver as bait were used. These traps were settled into a ciliate forest bordered by pastures and grazed continuously by cattle. The experiment was carried out at Embrapa Gado de Corte, in Campo Grande, Mato Grosso do Sul, Brazil, situated at 20º27‘S and 54°37’W. The capture of the insects was done weekly, from August 9, 1999 to August 3, 2000. A total of 40,629 fanniid flies which belonged to five different species of the genera Fannia were captured: E pusio, F. heydenii, E bahiensis and E longipila, and one species which needs further identification. The most frequent species was E pusio, with 63.20% of the total captured flies, followed by E heydenii with 28.82%. Eggs of D. hominis were observed only on 0.44% (45 specimens) of the E heydenii females captured, mainly on the ones captured in August and September. The average number for D. hominis eggs, per specimen, was 15.98±7.13. The only vector body region, where the eggs of D. hominis were found, was the abdomen. E heydenii predominated during the dry season (May to September) and at the beginning of the rainy season (October and November). The number of specimens bearing eggs of D. hominis was greater at the end of the annual dry season, what explains the high incidence of this parasite in cattle during September and October.

• Vectors warble fly epidemiology Brazilian savannas Vetores mosca-do-berne epidemiologia Cerrado.

Abstract in Portuguese:

RESUMO.- Gomes P.R., Koller W.W., Gomes A., Carvalho C.J.B. & Zorzatto J.R. 2002. [Fanniid diptera vectors of Dermatobia hominis eggs in Campo Grande, MS, Brazil.] Dípteros fanídeos de ovos de Dermatobia hominis em Campo Grande, Mato Grosso do Sul. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 22 (3):114-118. Laboratório de Ectoparasitologia, Embrapa Gado de Corte, BR 262 Km 4, Cx. Postal 154, Campo Grande, MS 79002-970, Brazil. Determinou-se a importância epidemiológica de dípteros Fanniidae na infestação de mosca-do-berne, por meio da identificação das espécies presentes, da determinação daquelas utilizadas por Dermatobia hominis na veiculação de seus ovos, bem como, pelo conhecimento da dinâmica populacional das espécies mais abundantes. Foram utilizadas cinco armadilhas iscadas com fígado bovino cru deteriorado e colocadas em uma mata ciliar margeada por uma área de pastagem com presença constante de bovinos. O estudo foi desenvolvido em uma área da Embrapa Gado de Corte, em Campo Grande, Estado de Mato Grosso do Sul, Brasil, localizada a 20°27‘S e 54°37’W. A captura dos insetos foi realizada semanalmente durante o período de 09/08/1999 a 03/08/2000. Foi capturado um total de 40.629 moscas da família Fanniidae, pertencendo a cinco espécies do gênero Fannia: E pusio, E heydenii, E bahiensis e F. longipila, e uma a ser identificada. A espécie mais freqüente foi E pusio, com 63,20% do total capturado, seguida de E heydenii, com 28,82%. Somente 0,44% do total de femeas de E heydenii (45 exemplares) capturadas, principalmente nos meses de agosto e setembro, portavam ovos de D. hominis e o número médio, por indivíduo, foi de 15,98±7,13. Observaram-se ovos de D. hominis apenas na região abdominal dos vetores. F. heydenii predominou no período seco (maio a setembro) e início do período chuvoso do ano (outubro e novembro). O número de exemplares portando ovos de D. hominis foi maior no final do período seco do ano, o que explica a alta incidência deste parasito em bovinos nos meses de setembro e outubro.