Research Articles (Companion Animal Clinical Studies)

Permanent URI for this collectionhttp://hdl.handle.net/2263/1803

News

Want to become a Submitter? Please e-mail Susan Marsh

For inquiries regarding this collection or items in the collection, please contact Susan Marsh Tel.: +27 12 529 8007

Browse

Now showing 1 - 20 of 378

Equine colic outcomes and prognostic factors at a South African academic hospital (2019–2021)
(Medpharm Publications, 2025) Van der Merwe, L.M.; Schliewert, Eva-Christina
BACKGROUND : Colic is a common equine emergency requiring medical or surgical intervention. These interventions can be costly, making outcomes data and prognostic indicators essential for guiding referral and treatment decisions. OBJECTIVES : To determine survival rates to hospital discharge and evaluate prognostic indicators in equine colic cases treated at a referral hospital (Onderstepoort Veterinary Academic Hospital [OVAH], South Africa). METHODS : This retrospective observational cohort study analysed records from horses with colic that were presented to the OVAH from January 2019 to August 2021. Data included signalment, admission heart rate (HR) and packed cell volume (PCV), treatment type (medical vs. surgical), surgical diagnosis, postoperative complications, and survival to discharge. RESULTS : Of 415 cases, 375 were treated (292 medically, 83 surgically). 91% of medically, 77% of surgically treated, and 88% overall survived. Compared to a previous study, overall survival to discharge improved by 5% (p = 0.025), mainly due to improved surgical outcomes. Survival was associated with treatment type and surgical lesion site (lower for small intestinal than large intestinal lesions). Medically treated cases with an increased HR and surgical cases with a high PCV had lower survival rates. Signalment showed no association with outcomes. CONCLUSION : Survival rates to discharge were comparable to previously published international reports and showed significant improvement to previous results from the same institution, due to improved surgical outcomes. These findings can assist veterinarians in referral and treatment decisions. Further research on long-term survival and additional prognostic indicators is required to improve outcome predictions for equine colic treatment.
Influence of carcinoma and sarcoma on neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin and symmetric dimethylarginine concentrations in dogs
(Wiley, 2025-03) Rixon, Anouska J.; Meyer, Evelyne; Daminet, Sylvie; Goddard, Amelia; Kongtasai, Thirawut; Pazzi, Paolo
BACKGROUND : It is unknown if tumors or concomitant renal disease influence neutrophil gelatinase–associated lipocalin (NGAL) and symmetric dimethylarginine (SDMA) concentrations in tumor-bearing dogs. OBJECTIVES : Determine the effect of tumor presence, tumor type, and metastasis on concentrations of serum NGAL (sNGAL), SDMA, urinary NGAL (uNGAL), and uNGAL-to-creatinine ratio (uNGAL/Cr) in dogs with carcinoma or sarcoma without clinically relevant renal disease. ANIMALS : Twenty-one dogs with carcinoma, 18 with sarcoma, and 20 healthy age-controlled dogs. METHODS : Concentrations of sNGAL, SDMA, and uNGAL, and uNGAL/Cr ratio were measured from banked samples collected during a previous prospective study. Patient clinicopathological and histopathology records were reviewed, and those with renal azotemia or moderate to severe histopathological renal abnormalities were classified as having clinically relevant renal disease. Biomarker concentrations were compared between tumor-bearing dogs without clinically relevant renal disease and healthy age-controlled dogs. Additionally, comparisons were made between dogs with carcinoma and sarcoma, as well as between dogs with and without metastasis. Correlations between uNGAL and sNGAL concentrations, along with acute phase protein (APP) concentrations, were also analyzed. RESULTS : Tumor-bearing dogs without clinically relevant renal disease had increased uNGAL/Cr (p < 0.001), but not sNGAL, compared with healthy controls. Although median SDMA concentrations did not significantly differ between groups, increased concentrations were found in 32% of dogs with carcinoma and 20% of dogs with sarcoma. No differences were found between dogs with carcinoma and those with sarcoma, or between dogs with metastasis and those without. Urinary and serum NGAL concentrations were moderately correlated, while weak to no correlations were observed with APPs. CONCLUSION : Carcinomas and sarcomas, but not metastasis, influence uNGAL/Cr and SDMA concentrations in dogs.
Influence of tibial plateau angle in cranial cruciate ligament-deficient stifle on patellar ligament strain : an ex vivo study
(American Veterinary Medical Association, 2025-02) Bester, Elizabeth G.; Zeiler, Gareth Edward; Stoltz, George G.; Oberholster, Abraham Johannes (Abrie); Kitshoff, Adriaan Mynhardt; elge.bester@up.ac.za
OBJECTIVE : The aim was to investigate the patellar ligament strain with varying degrees of tibial plateau angles (TPAs) after tibial plateau leveling osteotomy (TPLO) in a cranial cruciate ligament (CrCL)-deficient stifle during the stance phase. METHODS : 12 pelvic cadaver limbs were secured to a custom-built jig to mimic a loadbearing stance after which an axial load of 120 N was applied. Patellar ligament strain, change in strain, and percent change in strain were calculated on pre-TPLO (intact and transected CrCL) and post-TPLO tibial TPAs of −5°, 0°, 5°, 10°, and 15°. Strain was measured using a 3-D digital image correlation to calculate Green-Lagrange strain (E33). Data were compared using a linear mixed model and applying the Dunnett method of multiple comparisons (control was pre-TPLO intact CrCL). RESULTS : The post-TPLO TPAs of 0° and 5° increased in patellar strain compared to pre-TPLO intact CrCL constructs, whereas no significant changes were seen at a TPA of −5°, 10°, and 15°. Significant changes in patellar ligament strain were noted at a TPA of 0° and 5°. The percent change in strain differed at −5°, 0°, and 5° TPAs. The median magnitude of percent change in strain was 35.1%, 37.0%, 79.0%, −7.1%, and −21.1% for −5°, 0°, 5°, 10°, and 15°, respectively. CONCLUSIONS : Significant increases in patellar ligament strain (CrCL-deficient stifle) during the stance phase were observed at TPAs of 0° and 5°. CLINICAL RELEVANCE : A TPA post-TPLO > 5° and < 15° is less likely to cause an increase in patellar ligament strain; however, further research is needed to investigate the clinical relevance of these findings.
Closed laceration of the trachea, esophagus and guttural pouches in a mare caused by blunt trauma
(Elsevier, 2024-12) Lopes, M.A.F.; Hollenbach, Elza; Schliewert, Eva-Christina; Murphy, Mark-Anthony; Correa, Felipe
A mare was admitted for progressive swelling of the neck, lethargy and anorexia. Radiography revealed perilaryngeal, peritracheal, and periesophageal emphysema. Endoscopy revealed pharyngeal and tracheal roof collapse, and a small laceration on the trachea. Treatment with antimicrobials, fluids, and flunixin was initiated. To prevent exacerbation of the emphysema, temporary tracheostomy was performed. Clipping for the tracheostomy revealed a hoofprint mark on the ventral neck. Subsequent endoscopies revealed laceration of the esophagus and guttural pouch septum communicating with the visceral compartment of the neck. Four days after admission, an esophagostomy was performed to prevent leakage of ingesta into the neck and allow feeding. Complications occurred: Deep cervical infection requiring surgical drainage; Esophageal impaction with shavings on one occasion causing extensive mucosa erosions; Laminitis managed with restricted physical activity and corrective farriery. Tracheostomy tube removal, esophagostomy tube removal, and patient discharge occurred 10, 36 and 51 days after admission, respectively. The mare did well after discharge and returned to competing in children’s showing classes. Blunt trauma to the neck can lacerate the trachea, esophagus and guttural pouches causing emphysema and deep cervical infection, which can be treated with antimicrobials, temporary tracheostomy, temporary esophagostomy, surgical drainage, and supportive care.
23rd Sharjah International Conservation Forum for Arabia's biodiversity
(Cambridge University Press, 2024-07) Seddon, Philip; Els, Johannes; Steenkamp, Gerhardus; Mallon, David; Senn, Helen; May, Sarah; Budd, Jane
No abstract available.
Suspected bacterial ventriculitis in a nine-month-old Goldendoodle
(Medpharm Publications, 2024-11) Loubser, L.C.; Botha, Willem J.; Le Roux, Christelle
Bacterial ventriculitis is an uncommon, often fatal complication of intracranial bacterial infection. This case report describes a nine-month-old spayed female Goldendoodle that presented with a history of acute onset generalised seizures. The initial clinical examination, neurological examination and minimum database laboratory tests were unremarkable, and the dog was diagnosed with probable idiopathic epilepsy. Three weeks thereafter, the patient developed breakthrough clustering orofacial and generalised seizures. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings were consistent with bacterial ventriculitis. Broad-spectrum antibiotic and supportive therapy was initiated pending cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis, serology and bacterial culture; however, the patient died eight hours after initiating treatment. To our knowledge, this is the first case report of suspected bacterial ventriculitis in a dog in South Africa and describes its atypical clinical presentation, progression and unique MRI findings.
Surgical management of cranial cruciate ligament rupture and concurrent medial patellar luxation in a small breed dog by means of a modified cranial closing wedge ostectomy and tibial tuberosity transposition
(Medpharm Publications, 2024-11) Triegaardt, C.F.; Elliott, Ross C.; Naude, Stephanus H.; Kitshoff, Adriaan Mynhardt
Medial patella luxation (MPL) is a common cause of hindlimb lameness in small breed dogs and is associated with concurrent cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) rupture in up to 40% of cases. This case report describes a surgical technique that addressed both conditions concurrently. A four-year-old castrated, male Yorkshire Terrier presented with a chronic (two months) intermittent grade 3/5 lameness of the right pelvic limb that progressed to an acute non-weight bearing grade 5/5 lameness (Impellizeri et al. 2000). A clinical diagnosis of a grade 3 MPL and a concurrent CCL rupture of the right pelvic limb was made. A modified cranial closing wedge ostectomy (mCCWO) and a tibial tuberosity transposition (TTT), with a wedge trochleoplasty, were performed. The patient recovered uneventfully, and no lameness was detected at six weeks follow-up. No lameness or other incidents were reported by the owner on telephonic contact three months postoperatively. A follow-up clinical evaluation and lameness examination were performed at 12 months, and there was, subjectively, no visible lameness, and the radiographs showed radiographic union. This surgical technique has been shown to be an effective and viable option in this small breed patient to treat both conditions in one surgical procedure, but warrants further investigation with larger case numbers.
Promoting rhinoceros welfare during transit : veterinarians' perspectives on transportation practices
(Medpharm Publications, 2024-11) Macha, E.S.; Meyer, Leith Carl Rodney; Leiberich, Marion; Hofmeyr, M.; Hooijberg, Emma Henriette; emma.hooijberg@up.ac.za
Despite translocation being a useful conservation strategy in rhinoceros management, morbidities and mortalities occurring during transportation pose a significant concern to rhinoceros managers, veterinarians, and scientists. The objectives of this study were to better understand the effects of transport on rhinoceros and to gain insights from veterinarians involved in rhinoceros translocations about current practices and potential interventions that could improve welfare. A weblink and QR code to an online questionnaire with a total of 46 questions in Google Forms was sent to veterinarians who had experience in African rhinoceros transportation, through personal emails and social network forums. Results demonstrated that despite dehydration and negative energy balance being reported as the major causes of morbidities and mortalities during transport and post-release, most veterinarians (30/35; 86%) involved in rhinoceros translocation did not offer water, parenteral fluids, or feed to transported animals, for logistical reasons and the knowledge or perception of rhinoceros' resistance to taking ad lib food and water during transport. However, 52% (15/29) and 41% (15/34) of participants suggested that parenteral fluids could be used as an intervention to mitigate dehydration and negative energy balance respectively. To reduce stress, 94% (33/35) of respondents suggested the use of tranquilisers and sedatives. This study is the first to systematically investigate and report on practices by veterinarians involved in rhinoceros translocations globally. The study highlights that further research is required to explore optimal and pragmatic techniques in the field to mitigate reported welfare challenges in rhinoceros during transport.
Exploring the anatomy of Linguatula serrata using micro-computed tomography
(Elsevier, 2024-12) Birckhead, Alice; O’Hare Doig, Ryan; Carstens, Ann; Jenkins, David; Shamsi, Shokoofeh
Micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) is an emerging tool in parasitology that can assist in analysing morphology and host-parasitic interactions. It is a non-destructive, cross-sectional imaging technique that offers good resolution and the ability to create three-dimensional (3D) reconstructions. Here, we used micro-CT to study Linguatula serrata, which is a zoonotic pentastome parasite that infects dogs and ruminants throughout the world. The aims of this study were to describe the internal and external anatomy of adult L. serrata specimens using micro-CT, and to describe and compare specimens stained with 0.3% phosphotungstic acid (PTA) and 1% iodine (I2). Ten adult L. serrata specimens were subjected to micro-CT examination. The specimens were fixed in 70% ethanol and stained with 0.3% PTA or 1% I2. Both stains offered good tissue contrast. The main identifying external features of L. serrata (hooks, mouth, buccal cadre) were clearly visible. Virtual sections and 3D reconstructions provided a good overview of the coelomic cavity, with visualisation of the digestive tract, nervous system, and male and female reproductive organs. These micro-CT images and morphological descriptions may serve as an anatomical reference for L. serrata, in particular, the internal anatomy which has not been described in recent years.
Genetic characterization of diagnostic epitopes of cardiac troponin I in African rhinoceros
(Sage, 2025-03) Rautenbach, Yolandi; Parsons, Sven David Charles; Loots, Angelika Katrin; Goddard, Amelia; Meyer, Leith Carl Rodney; Buss, Peter Erik; Hooijberg, Emma Henriette
African rhinoceros undergo chemical immobilization and prolonged transport during translocations for conservation purposes and, hence, experience several pathophysiologic changes, including skeletal muscle injury. Potential concurrent myocardial injury has not been investigated due to a lack of validated immunoassays. We aimed to use inferred cardiac troponin I (cTnI) amino acid sequences of southern white (Ceratotherium simum simum) and southern-central black (Diceros bicornis minor) rhinoceros to assess the potential usefulness of several commercial cTnI immunoassays for detecting cTnI in African rhinoceros. We extracted RNA from the myocardium of deceased rhinoceros (2 white, 1 black rhinoceros) followed by primer design, cDNA synthesis via RT-PCR, and Sanger sequencing. The inferred cTnI amino acid sequences were obtained from the mRNA transcript sequences. The homology of epitope binding sites recognized by capture and detection antibodies in 6 human immunoassays was visually evaluated using aligned inferred rhinoceros cTnI amino acid sequences. Percentage identity between white and black rhinoceros cDNA nucleotide sequences was 99%; inferred amino acid sequences were identical. There were 5 amino acid differences between humans and rhinoceros in the epitope binding sites of immunoassay antibodies; 5 assays contained antibodies against epitopes that were not conserved. For one assay, the single capture antibody targeted a short heterologous epitope (residue 87–91), and cross-reactivity with rhinoceros cTnI was deemed unlikely. For the other 5 assays, complete antibody-epitope homology, or the inclusion of multiple detection or capture antibodies, or targeting of long epitopes, indicated that these assays could be suitable for further investigation of cTnI measurement in African rhinoceros.
Calcium and magnesium abnormalities in puppies with parvoviral enteritis
(American Veterinary Medical Association, 2025-01) Mouton, Anneri; Celliers, Anri; Thompson, P.N. (Peter N.); Mellanby, Richard J.; Schoeman, Johan P.; anneri.mouton@up.ac.za
OBJECTIVE : To determine the association between ionized calcium (iCa) and/or total magnesium (tMg) and the development of sepsis and to investigate whether iCa or tMg is associated with mortality in puppies with canine parvoviral enteritis (CPE). METHODS : 64 client-owned puppies with CPE were enrolled in this prospective cohort study. Serum iCa and tMg were measured daily from admission until death or discharge. Fifteen healthy client-owned puppies were used as controls. RESULTS : Mean iCa concentrations of the CPE group on admission were significantly lower compared to the control group (1.35 mmol/L vs 1.52 mmol/L). Ionized calcium concentrations of nonsurvivors were significantly higher compared to survivors on day 2 but not on any other days. Puppies that were hypercalcemic on day 2 were also significantly more likely to die than normocalcemic puppies (OR, 10.7; 95% CI, 1.7 to 71). Ionized calcium was not associated with the development of sepsis on any day. In contrast, mean admission tMg concentrations of the CPE group were significantly higher compared to the control group (0.72 mmol/L vs 0.63 mmol/L). However, tMg concentrations were not significantly different between survivors and nonsurvivors nor were they associated with the development of sepsis on any day. CONCLUSIONS : On admission, puppies with CPE had lower iCa and higher tMg compared to healthy puppies, and higher iCa a day after initiation of treatment was associated with increased odds of mortality. CLINICAL RELEVANCE : The results of this study provide insight into calcium homeostasis in critically ill young dogs with CPE.
Computed tomographic characteristics of craniomandibular osteopathy in 20 dogs
(Frontiers Media, 2024-09) Lopez, Luis A.P.; Almansa Ruiz, Jose Carlos; Steenkamp, Gerhardus; Holdsworth, Andrew
Craniomandibular osteopathy (CMO) is a proliferative, self-limiting, nonneoplastic disease of growing dogs characterised by excessive new bone formation on the skull and mandible. The radiographic findings of CMO are well described; however, limited reports of the computed tomographic (CT) appearance are available. This paper aims to characterise the spectrum of CT findings that can occur with CMO. The study is retrospective, descriptive, multicenter, and includes 20 cases. Age at presentation ranged from 6 weeks to 12 months, with no sex predisposition. Scottish terriers were overrepresented (65%); other breeds included Cairn terrier, Jack Russell terrier, Staffordshire bull terrier, labrador retriever, golden retriever, akita and Slovakian roughhaired pointer (one of each breed). Terrier breeds represented 80% (16/20) of the patient cohort. Mandibular osteoproliferation was present in all patients (marked in 80%, bilateral in 95%), affecting the rostral mandible in 25%, body in 85%, and ramus in 80%. Tympanic bulla osteoproliferation was present in 60% (12/20) of patients (all marked, bilateral in 75%). Cranial osteoproliferation (frontal, parietal, temporal, occipital bones or maxilla, or combinations of them) was present in 90% (18/20) of patients (40% marked, 27% moderate, 33% mild). Nasopharyngeal narrowing was seen in all 12 patients with tympanic bulla osteoproliferation (67% marked, 27% moderate) and caused nearly complete occlusion in two of them. External ear canal stenosis was seen in 55% (11/20) of patients (63% marked, 37% moderate, all bilateral). Temporomandibular joint (TMJ) impingement was suspected in 83% (10/12) of patients with marked tympanic bulla osteoproliferation (75% bilateral). Osteolysis with a moth-eaten pattern was seen in the mandible of 10/20 dogs, the calvarium of 5/20 dogs, and the maxilla of 1/20 dogs (5%). Lymphadenomegaly (mandibular and medial retropharyngeal) was found in 15/20 patients (70% mild, 30% moderate). The most severe CT changes were seen in Scottish terriers. CT allows for detailed characterisation of the bony changes associated with CMO, including the effects occurring secondary to osteoproliferation surrounding the tympanic bullae such as TMJ impingement, external ear canal stenosis, and nasopharyngeal narrowing. Osteoproliferation affecting the cranium and the presence of osteolysis were seen more frequently in this study than previously reported in CMO.
Acute leptospirosis in horses : a retrospective study of 11 cases (2015-2023)
(Wiley, 2024-10) Ramsay, Lynette; Eberhardt, Christina; Schoster, Angelika
BACKGROUND : Reports of leptospirosis in horses are limited. OBJECTIVES : To describe the clinical and diagnostic findings of acute systemic leptospirosis in horses. ANIMALS : Eleven client-owned horses presented to an equine hospital because of acute onset of disease between 2015 and 2023. METHODS : Retrospective case series. Horses diagnosed with leptospirosis by 1 or more of urine PCR, serologic microscopic agglutination test (MAT), and histopathology. RESULTS : Common clinical signs included lethargy (10), anorexia (10), fever (9), tachypnea (9), abnormal lung sounds (9), and epistaxis (6). Acute kidney injury was present in all cases. Evidence of pulmonary hemorrhage and liver disease was found in 8 (73%) and 6 (55%) horses, respectively. In 6 (55%) horses, kidneys, lungs, and liver were affected. Urine quantitative polymerase chain reaction for detection of pathogenic Leptospira spp. was positive in 6 (55%) cases. On serology Leptospira interrogans serovar Australis, Autumnalis, and Bratislava accounted for 86% of all titers ≥1 : 800. Overall case fatality rate was 4/11 (36%). Main findings on necropsy were tubular necrosis, interstitial nephritis, hemorrhage in the alveoli, pulmonary edema, periportal hepatitis and necrosis, cholestasis, and cholangitis. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE : Leptospirosis should be considered as a differential diagnosis in horses with evidence of acute systemic inflammation and acute renal injury, epistaxis, or hepatic disease. For increased likelihood of identifying positive cases, both MAT serology and urine PCR should be performed.
Prothrombin and activated partial thromboplastin times, thromboelastography, hematocrit, and platelet count in a feline hemorrhage/over-resuscitation model using lactated Ringer's solution or 6% tetrastarch 130/0.4
(Wiley, 2024-07) Zeiler, Gareth Edward; Dzikiti, Loveness Nyaradzo; Rioja, Eva; Kamerman, Peter; Buck, Roxanne Kate; Pohlin, Friederike; Fuller, Andrea; gareth.zeiler@up.ac.za
OBJECTIVE : To describe and compare prothrombin time (PT), activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT), thromboelastography (TEG), HCT, and platelet count measurements in a hemorrhage/over-resuscitation model. DESIGN : Randomized cross-over study. SETTING : University teaching hospital. ANIMALS : Six cats. INTERVENTIONS : Anesthetized cats underwent 3 treatments at 2-month intervals. The treatments were as follows: NHR—no controlled hemorrhage and sham resuscitation; LRS—controlled hemorrhage and lactated Ringer’s solution (LRS) for resuscitation; and Voluven—controlled hemorrhage and 6% tetrastarch 130/0.4 for resuscitation. The LRS and Voluven were administered at 60 and 20 mL/kg/h, respectively, for 120 minutes. Blood samples were drawn for PT, aPTT, TEG, HCT, and platelet count measurements at a healthy check (T − 7d), after controlled hemorrhage (T0), at 60 and 120 minutes of resuscitation (T60 and T120), and at 24 hours after completion of resuscitation (T24h). Data were analyzed using a general linear-mixed model approach (significance was P < 0.05). MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS : Total-median blood loss (controlled hemorrhage and blood sampling from T0 to T120) at T120 was 11.4, 31.0, and 30.8 mL/kg for NHR, LRS, and Voluven, respectively. PT and aPTT during LRS and Voluven were prolonged at T60 and T120 compared to NHR(P<0.001). On TEG, the reaction time, kinetic time, and alpha-angle were within reference intervals for cats at all time points in all treatments, while maximum amplitude was less than the reference interval (40 mm) at T0, T60, and T120 during Voluven and at T60 and T120 during LRS compared to NHR(both P<0.001). The HCT and platelet count were significantly lower at T60 and T120 during LRS and Voluven compared to NHR (P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS : Hypocoagulopathy was observed during hemorrhage and liberal fluid resuscitation. Prolongation of PT and aPPT and decreased clot strength may have been caused by hemodilution and platelet loss.
Effects of lead shielding on gamma radiation scatter energy spectrum during equine bone scintigraphy
(Medpharm Publications, 2024-08) Kafka, Ulrike; Beukes, P.; Slabbert, J.P.; Carstens, Ann
The main aim of this pilot study was to determine how the energy spectrum of scatter radiation emitted from horses after injection of the radiopharmaceutical 99mTechnetium-methyl diphosphonate (99mTc-MDP), changed behind lead shielding of varying thicknesses (0.25 mm, 0.35 mm, and 0.5 mm Pb thickness), and if beam hardening occurred. The effect lead shielding has on the emitted gamma radiation energy spectrum has not been documented. In particular, the presence of beam hardening effects behind lead shielding was investigated, to determine whether or not it could discourage the use of lead shields during bone scintigraphy in horses. Horses were injected intravenously with 99mTc-MDP, and energy spectra emitted from horses without lead shielding were recorded initially to determine the emitted scatter spectrum. Thereafter, different combinations of lead shields of the various thicknesses listed above, draped over the horse and on simulated personnel, were recorded. The energy spectra were obtained at different anatomical locations of five horses on five consecutive days with a pulse height (multichannel) analyser two and a half hours post-injection. Energy spectra recorded from horses without lead shielding showed polychromatic energy spectra that encompassed a large portion of predominantly lower scatter energies (averaging around the 88–94 keV peaks). Higher 99mTc- MDP peaks averaging at 139–143 keV (useful for gamma camera acquisition) were consistently seen in all recordings but made up a very small part of the emitted spectra. With the application of lead shielding, peaks of 83–86 keV, which coincided with K-edges of lead, occurred. No significant beam hardening effects behind lead shields of varying thicknesses were observed. Thus, the wearing of lead shields during bone scintigraphy of horses is encouraged.
The time course of lactate and endocrine changes in dogs suffering from dog bite wounds
(Medpharm Publications, 2024-03) Van Zyl, Este; Thompson, P.N. (Peter N.); Schoeman, Johan P.
BACLGROUND : The stress response after acute trauma in humans and animals has been well-recognised in the literature. However, data on temporal changes in endocrine parameters after acute trauma in previously healthy dogs are scant. OBJECTIVE : To longitudinally track endocrine variables and lactate concentrations in dogs with canine bite wounds. METHOD : Prospective study involving 20 dogs hospitalised after being bitten by another dog. Serum cortisol, thyroxine (total T4), thyrotropin (TSH), and lactate concentrations were measured on admission and every 8 hours after the recorded bite incident, for a 72-hour period. RESULTS : Median cortisol concentration was markedly elevated on admission (314.6 nmol/L; IQR 229.3–369.6) but returned to within the reference interval by 16 hours post-bite (99.5 nmol/L; IQR 48.7–225.4) and reached a nadir at 48 hours post-bite (38.5 nmol/L; IQR 32.1–115.9). Median total T4 concentration was within the reference interval on admission (20.6 nmol/L; IQR 12.7–27.9) but decreased below the reference interval by 8 hours (11.0 nmol/L; IQR 5.0–14.1) and reached a nadir 16 hours postbite (7.0 nmol/L; IQR 2.9–19.7), before gradually increasing after 64 hours to reach the reference range by 72 hours. The median TSH concentrations remained within the reference interval throughout the study period. Median lactate concentration was mildly elevated on admission (3.0 mmol/L; IQR 2.0–3.9). CONCLUSION : This study produced novel data on the temporal relationships of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal and hypothalamicpituitary- thyroidal axes alterations after an acute traumatic insult in dogs.
Cytological and histopathological bone marrow findings in dogs with natural Babesia rossi infection
(Medpharm Publications, 2024-10) Bumby, M.M.; Clift, Sarah Jane; Hooijberg, Emma Henriette; Leisewitz, Andrew L.
An inappropriate regenerative response to anaemia has been reported in B. rossi-associated canine babesiosis. We investigated the impact of canine babesiosis on the bone marrow by evaluating the cytological and histopathological changes. Bone marrow smears and histopathology specimens were obtained post-mortem (within 24 hours of death) from six Babesia rossi-infected dogs and five healthy control dogs. Findings were interpreted together with the circulating haemogram, a Perls’ Prussian blue special stain for iron and immunohistochemical markers CD3, CD20, MUM-1, MAC387 and CD204. Infected dogs had an inflammatory leukogram, inappropriately regenerative anaemia, hypercellular bone marrow due to erythroid hyperplasia, dyserythropoietic changes within the metarubricyte population, a myeloid hyperplasia with a left shift, a significant increase in the number of CD204-positive resident macrophages, a left shift within the megakaryocyte population and a significantly increased iron content. Whether iron-restricted erythropoiesis plays a role in the anaemia of canine babesiosis could not be established in this study. Our findings concur with what has been recorded in the bone marrow of humans with falciparum malaria and confirm that dyserythropoiesis is partially responsible for the inappropriate erythroid response in canine babesiosis.
An epidemiological study of canine lymphoma in South Africa
(Medpharm Publications, 2024-10) Harris, Sybrand Ben; Hooijberg, Emma Henriette; Clift, Sarah Jane; Fosgate, Geoffrey Theodore; Du Plessis, E.C.; Rautenbach, Yolandi
Breed, age, and sex predispositions for canine lymphoma have been reported for various geographical locations. However, epidemiological information concerning canine lymphoma in South Africa is scarce. The aim of the study was to describe the epidemiological features of canine lymphoma and the frequency of World Health Organization (WHO) classification subtypes in South Africa. A retrospective, case-control study was performed that included 342 cases with a histopathological diagnosis of canine lymphoma matched with 342 canine non-lymphoma control cases. Associations between canine lymphoma and breed, age, sex, and neutering status were assessed using univariate and multivariable conditional logistic regression. Associations were reported as odds ratios and significance set as p≤ 0.05. Breed was significantly associated with canine lymphoma, but not age, sex, or neutering status. Median population age was eight years, with a male-to-female ratio of 1.2:1. The Boerboel had an increased risk (OR = 1.63, CI = 1.02–2.62, p = 0.002) and the Yorkshire Terrier a decreased risk (OR = 0.59, CI = 0.38–0.93, p = 0.050) of having canine lymphoma. Immunophenotyping was performed on 119 (35%) cases, of which 82 (69%) were B-cell, 34 (29%) T-cell and three (2%) neither. WHO subtype was available for 88 cases; of these 66 (75%) were diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) with remaining subtypes each ≤ 7%. This study identified a breed predisposition for canine lymphoma in the Boerboel, a South African mastiff-type dog, but significant associations were not detected for age, sex, and other breeds. The frequency of immunophenotypes and WHO subtypes was similar to previous studies in other locations.
A case report of a cementless total hip replacement performed in a pelvic limb amputee after a failed surgical reduction of a traumatic coxo-femoral luxation with a toggle rod
(Medpharm Publications, 2024-03) Elliott, Ross Christopher; Van de Wetering, Klaas-Jan; Kitshoff, Adriaan Mynhardt
Coxo-femoral luxation is the most common luxation seen in dogs after road traffic accidents. There are multiple surgical techniques to repair the luxation. These range from a capsular reconstruction to a total hip replacement. This case report describes a total hip replacement to repair a failed toggle rod repair of a coxo-femoral luxation in a Greyhound pelvic limb amputee. The dog returned to normal activity as a household pet three months post-surgery and at the last follow-up consultation at 12 months post-surgery the dog was able to maintain an acceptable activity level as an amputee with no radiographic signs of complications.
A survey of ocular pathology in warmblood horses in South Africa
(Wiley, 2024) Allen, Ramona; Goodhead, Antony D.
BACKGROUND: Warmblood horses are a popular breed around the world for equestrian sports. Previous studies have investigated ocular findings in other breeds of horses; however, no studies exist for the Warmblood breed. OBJECTIVES: To determine the prevalence of ocular abnormalities in a convenience sample of Warmblood horses in South Africa and to determine if the prevalence of lens and chorioretinal lesions increase with age. STUDY DESIGN: Descriptive, observational study. METHODS: Warmblood horses underwent a full ophthalmic examination which included a Schirmer tear test (STT), tonometry, fluorescein dye testing, slit lamp biomicroscopy and indirect ophthalmoscopy. Age was categorised into three groups namely <8 years old, 8–13 years old and 14+ years old for statistical analysis. Prevalence of lens and chorioretinal lesions were compared between age categories. RESULTS: One hundred and four horses (208 eyes) were examined. The age range was 5 months to 30 years (mean 11 years, standard deviation [SD] 6 years). Ocular pathology was noted in 125 eyes (60.1%) and 79 horses (76%). The highest number of lesions were noted in the choroid and retina, iris and lens. Chorioretinal lesions were seen in 100 eyes (48.1%) and in 65 horses (62.5%). Iridial lesions were seen in 19 eyes (9.1%) and 12 horses (11.5%). Cataracts were seen in 19 eyes (9.1%) and in 13 horses (12.5%). The presence of total chorioretinal lesions (eye level [p = 0.002]; horse level [p = 0.004]), focal chorioretinal lesions (eye level [p = 0.004]; horse level [p = 0.008]) and cataract (eye [p = 0.03]; horse level [p = 0.02]) were all shown to statistically increase with age. MAIN LIMITATIONS: A small sample size and limited geographic area. Conclusions: There was a high prevalence of ocular pathology in this population of warmblood horses in South Africa. This reiterates the importance of an ocular examination as a part of routine health checks, as well as during pre-purchase examinations

Browse

Recent Submissions