Small Animal Surgery
Vahid Ganjiani; Amin Bigham-Sadegh; Hamid Meimandi; Mohsen Nouroozi; Dariush Sarikhani; Parisa Afraz
Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript, Available Online from 08 August 2023
Abstract
Foreign bodies in the respiratory tract (trachea/bronchus) are very rare conditions; therefore, it is not on top of the list of differential diagnoses in patients with chronic or severe cough, but its occurrence should not be considered unexpected. A 2-year-old male Shih Tzu terrier mix dog (9.2 kg) ...
Read More
Foreign bodies in the respiratory tract (trachea/bronchus) are very rare conditions; therefore, it is not on top of the list of differential diagnoses in patients with chronic or severe cough, but its occurrence should not be considered unexpected. A 2-year-old male Shih Tzu terrier mix dog (9.2 kg) with a history of dyspnea for six days was referred to the Veterinary Teaching Hospital of Shiraz University. In the clinical examination, respiratory distress and pain during palpation of the neck area were observed. Radiology indicated a triangular radiopaque object (bone) in the trachea of the animal. The size of the foreign body, the weakness of the grasping forceps of the device, and the edges of the bone being stuck in the trachea caused tracheoscopy failure after 30 minutes of trying. Surgical procedure (tracheotomy) was effective to remove the foreign body using Noyes alligator tissue forceps. Aspirated foreign body is not a common condition. If the aspirated foreign body is recognized early and treated immediately, prognosis is usually good.
Reza Esmailzadeh; Farnaz Malekifard; Alaleh Rakhshanpour; Mousa Tavassoli
Volume 14, Issue 6 , June 2023, , Pages 335-340
Abstract
Giardia duodenalis is a zoonotic protozoan infecting various vertebrates such as humans and domestic animals. The aim of this study was to determine the frequency and genotypes of G. duodenalis using polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) in dogs of Urmia, Iran. ...
Read More
Giardia duodenalis is a zoonotic protozoan infecting various vertebrates such as humans and domestic animals. The aim of this study was to determine the frequency and genotypes of G. duodenalis using polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) in dogs of Urmia, Iran. Overall, 246 stool specimens were collected from 100 pet, 49 stray, and 97 shelter dogs in the Urmia, Iran. Totally, seven samples (2.48%) were microscopically positive in terms of Giardia cyst. The PCR-RFLP analysis revealed that three (1.21%) and two (0.83%) samples have the C and D genotypes, respectively. In addition, two samples (0.83%) were belonged to the AI sub-group. A significant association was determined between the frequency of Giardia infection and life style, age, and stool form of dogs. The findings of the study showed the high frequency of Giardia infection in stray dogs and the dogs under one-year-old. Furthermore, the C and D genotypes of G. duodenalis were predominant in dogs of Urmia, Iran.
Farzad Mousafarkhani; Ali Asghar Sarchahi; Hadi Mohebalian; Javad Khoshnegah; Mohammad Arbabi
Volume 14, Issue 3 , March 2023, , Pages 153-160
Abstract
Canine distemper virus (CDV) is responsible for high morbidity and mortality in dogs worldwide. Epidemiological study of canine distemper can help to control and treat the disease in any area. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of CDV in dogs referred to the Veterinary Hospital from September ...
Read More
Canine distemper virus (CDV) is responsible for high morbidity and mortality in dogs worldwide. Epidemiological study of canine distemper can help to control and treat the disease in any area. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of CDV in dogs referred to the Veterinary Hospital from September 23, 2018 to September 22, 2019. Dogs with at least two clinical signs of canine distemper underwent blood tests, rapid test kit from the eye and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), and RT-PCR from whole blood and/or CSF samples. Out of 1212 referred dogs, 112 dogs were suspected to have canine distemper of which 90 underwent RT-PCR and rapid test kits. The disease prevalence was 4.04% (49/1212) and 7.44% (49/659) according to the total number of referring dogs and number of referring sick dogs, respectively. The distemper fatality rate was 69.57% (32/46). Seventy percent of distemper positive cases were under 12 months old and 52.08% were under 6 months old. Female dogs were more susceptible than males; however, the fatality rate of males was more than females. Of distemper positive dogs, 91.84% were unvaccinated. The highest prevalence (71.43%) of dogs diagnosed with CDV occurred during the cold seasons. It is concluded that canine distemper is endemic in the geographical area of Mashhad and its prevalence rate in dogs referred to the Veterinary Hospital of Ferdowsi University of Mashhad is 4.04% and its fatality rate is 69.57%. This indicates that a significant number of dogs may die if they develop distemper despite treatment.
Tanvika Sangwan; Neetu Saini; Deepika Kataria
Volume 13, Issue 4 , December 2022, , Pages 615-619
Abstract
A one and a half years old male French bulldog weighing 9.50 kg was presented with the history of inappetence, lethargy, abdominal distension and exercise intolerance since last 2 days. The physical examination was done which revealed normal physiological parameters including temperature, mucus membrane ...
Read More
A one and a half years old male French bulldog weighing 9.50 kg was presented with the history of inappetence, lethargy, abdominal distension and exercise intolerance since last 2 days. The physical examination was done which revealed normal physiological parameters including temperature, mucus membrane color and capillary refill time except palpable precordial thrills, jugular distension on palpation, tachycardia and systolic murmurs on auscultation. Electrocardiography (ECG) was done which depicted ectopic foci with atrioventricular junctional tachycardia and right ventricular enlargement involving very small inverted P waves, deep S waves in leads I, II, III and augmented vector foot (aVF) and splintered QRS complexes. The dog was undergone chest radiography that revealed right atrial enlargement, increased sternal contact of heart on lateral view and a bulge at 9:00 o’clock to 11:00 o’clock depicted right atrial enlargement on dorso-ventral view. Lastly, echocardiography was done to arrive at a diagnosis confirming the Ebstein’s anomaly as a form of tricuspid valve dysplasia including apical displacement of tricuspid valve leaflets, division of right ventricle into atrialized and functional portions, increased displacement index, increased apex-mitral annulus to apex-tricuspid annulus ratio, severe right atrial dilatation and tricuspid regurgitation. The dog was medically treated with diuretics, angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors and inotropes and the owner was advised to put the dog on low sodium diet for 2 weeks. The dog has resolved clinical signs of right sided heart affection; but, suddenly collapsed at home. The owner denied for the necropsy of dog.
Tomohiro Oyamada; Rina Nabeta; Daigo Azakami
Volume 13, Issue 3 , September 2022, , Pages 451-454
Abstract
A 12-year-old spayed female Yorkshire terrier presented with anorexia, and an intra-abdominal mass was examined at the Animal Medical Center, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Tokyo, Japan. Abdominal ultrasonography revealed that the mass originated from the spleen. Total splenectomy was ...
Read More
A 12-year-old spayed female Yorkshire terrier presented with anorexia, and an intra-abdominal mass was examined at the Animal Medical Center, Tokyo University of Agriculture and Technology, Tokyo, Japan. Abdominal ultrasonography revealed that the mass originated from the spleen. Total splenectomy was performed the following day, where evidence of past rupture of the splenic mass and a small amount of purulent ascites were found. No gastrointestinal perforation or abscess formation in other tissues was noted during the surgery. Intra-operative cytological examination of the ascites revealed a large number of degenerated neutrophils and macrophages phagocytosing cocci. The splenic mass was histopathologically diagnosed as a splenic abscess, concurrent with a splenic hemangiosarcoma. Bacterial culture examination of the ascites identified Staphylococcus schleiferi. Although surgical management had been successful, the dog eventually developed clinical signs suggestive of intra-abdominal hemorrhage attributable to hemangiosarcoma approximately five months after surgery. This clinical report describes that splenic hemangiosarcoma might have created a milieu favorable for the development of splenic abscess.
Mohammad Yasan Bangash; Mir Sepehr Pedram; Valiollah Mehrabi; Mohammad Mehdi Dehghan; Koorosh Mansoori; Sarang Soroori; Sanaz Banifazl; Forough Dadgar; Mohammad Reza Mokhber Dezfouli
Volume 13, Issue 2 , June 2022, , Pages 215-221
Abstract
The aim of this study was to introduce a new animal model of fecal incontinence (FI) by injecting abobotulinumtoxinA in the external anal sphincter (EAS) muscle of dogs which replaces models based on anal sphincter destructions that are invasive, mostly require surgical procedures, expensive, permanent, ...
Read More
The aim of this study was to introduce a new animal model of fecal incontinence (FI) by injecting abobotulinumtoxinA in the external anal sphincter (EAS) muscle of dogs which replaces models based on anal sphincter destructions that are invasive, mostly require surgical procedures, expensive, permanent, and painful to the animals. 4 healthy mongrel dogs were used in this study. First, they were received NaCl 0.09% (as control) injections in EAS muscle and effects were assessed by means of Electromyography (EMG) and clinically evaluated by sphincter pinch test and presence of leakage of feces for 2 weeks. Then, they received abobotulinumtoxinA in EAS muscle and reevaluated for 6 weeks to see short-term and medium-term effects of abobotulinumtoxinA injection. Saline had no significant changes in results obtained from EMG, however, there were significant decreases in amplitudes of action potentials after receiving abobotulinumtoxinA in comparison with no injection or saline injection in EAS muscle. Pinch tests were normal after saline injection assessment period, however, then started to be negative, ranging from two days after abobotulinumtoxinA injection to seven days after receiving abobotulinumtoxinA. Animals also had significant presentations of fecal incontinence (leakage of feces and cage contamination with feces) from the 1st week after receiving abobotulinumtoxinA until the 6th week after receiving abobotulinumtoxinA. AbobotulinumtoxinA caused paralysis in the EAS and producd FI conditions in dogs. This animal model was an appropriate substitute to the various invasive, expensive and also complicated procedures with an easy, feasible, noninvasive and non-painful single-stage abobotulinumtoxinA injection.
Ariadna Flores Ortega; Camilo Romero Núñez; Rafael Heredia Cárdenas; Linda Guiliana Bautista Gómez
Volume 13, Issue 2 , June 2022, , Pages 275-278
Abstract
Otitis externa is an inflammatory disease of the external ear canal; a therapeutic alternative is the controlled-flux electrolyzed acidic solution (SAEFC) with bactericidal and bacteriostatic properties. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the clinical and cytological efficacies of SAEFCin otitis ...
Read More
Otitis externa is an inflammatory disease of the external ear canal; a therapeutic alternative is the controlled-flux electrolyzed acidic solution (SAEFC) with bactericidal and bacteriostatic properties. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the clinical and cytological efficacies of SAEFCin otitis externa. A total of 30 dogs were examined. The clinical and cytological evaluations were on days 1, 7 and 14; the following was considered: Pain, erythema, exudate, inflammation, ulcers, putrid odor and pigmentation. Cytological evaluations were carried out to examine the presence of polymorphonuclear leukocytes (PMN), intra-cellular bacteria (cocci; IC), extra-cellular bacteria (EC) and yeasts on days 1, 7 and 14. A cotton swab saturated with SAEFC was applied for each dog’s ear. The values of PMN diminished having a significant difference between days. The presence of IC (cocci) had a difference in evaluations from day 1 to day 7 and from day 7 to day 14 demonstrating an important drop. The evaluation of pain showed a sustained decrease until reaching 95.00% of remission, erythema diminished 68.33%, the exudate dropped to 90.00%, inflammation was no longer present by day 14 in 78.00% of the cases and 21.67% showed a slight inflammation, the putrid odor dropped to 95.00% and 5.00% presented a mild odor and by day 14 ear pigmentation was no longer present in 51.67% of the cases and the 48.33% had slight pigmentation. The use of SAEFC is an effective alternative treatment in dogs with otitis externa.
Hamidreza Moosavian; Mahsa Fazli
Volume 13, Issue 2 , June 2022, , Pages 283-287
Abstract
A 9-year-old spayed female Terrier dog was evaluated for lethargy, anorexia, polyuria, polydipsia and dysuria. The dog had been diagnosed with diabetes mellitus about 6 months ago and received subcutaneous doses of insulin. The patient showed insulin resistance and severe persistent fasting hyperglycemia ...
Read More
A 9-year-old spayed female Terrier dog was evaluated for lethargy, anorexia, polyuria, polydipsia and dysuria. The dog had been diagnosed with diabetes mellitus about 6 months ago and received subcutaneous doses of insulin. The patient showed insulin resistance and severe persistent fasting hyperglycemia in the face of high-dose insulin treatment, hyper-cholesterolemia and urinary tract infection. After a complete evaluation, the dog was diagnosed with a polycystic ovary and a cystic uterine remnant during an exploratory celiotomy. The polycystic ovary and cystic uterine remnant were removed and submitted for histopathological evaluation. Two weeks after surgery the blood glucose level and one month later serum cholesterol level were controlled, using a low level of insulin therapy (0.25 IU kg-1 Neutral Protamine Hagedorn (NPH) insulin, every 12 hr). In the present study, the clinical and laboratory results showed that ovarian remnant syndrome as an infrequently encountered condition in dog was related to some metabolic disorders such as insulin resistance, uncontrolled hyperglycemia, dyslipidemia and also recurrence urinary tract infection. To the best of authors’ knowledge, no reports of hypercholesterolemia in dog have been made before as a complication of ovarian remnant syndrome.
Vahid Fathipour; Bijan Esmaeilnejad; Gholamreza Habibi; Asghar Afshari; Mousa Tavassoli; Siyamak Asri-Rezaei; Mahmood Mollazadeh; Sepideh Rajabi
Volume 12, Issue 4 , December 2021, , Pages 519-522
Abstract
A 2-year-old female Shih Tzu dog was submitted with the history of anorexia and depression for one week and no prior surgery. Fever and pale mucosa were noticed in physical examination. Microscopic examination of the Giemsa-stained blood smear disclosed large form of Babesia and single to four pear-shaped ...
Read More
A 2-year-old female Shih Tzu dog was submitted with the history of anorexia and depression for one week and no prior surgery. Fever and pale mucosa were noticed in physical examination. Microscopic examination of the Giemsa-stained blood smear disclosed large form of Babesia and single to four pear-shaped merozoites within erythrocytes (RBCs). Regenerative anemia characterized by a marked reticulocytosis, significant intra-vascular hemolysis, nucleated RBCs, left-shifted neutrophils, thrombocytopenia, azotemia, high serum creatinine and urea concentrations were recorded following hemato-biochemical analysis. Abundant bilirubin crystals and abnormal reddish color after centrifugation were observed in urinalysis. Molecular analysis was performed using specific primers for detection of Babesia canis. Diminazene aceturate, ciprofloxacin, ivermectin and phosphorus-vitamin B12 were prescribed and the clinical signs improved after four days. Two months follow-up showed no recurrence. Such studies would significantly contribute to the development of appropriate preventive strategies and successful treatment. This communication reports a clinical case of canine babesiosis caused by B. canis in a female Shih Tzu dog.
Alale Soltanian; Bahman Mosallanejad; Mohammad Razi Jalali; Hossein Najafzadeh Varzi; Masoud Ghorbanpoor
Volume 11, Issue 3 , September 2020, , Pages 235-241
Abstract
The present study aimed to examine the effectiveness of silymarin compared to hydrocortisone on clinical and hematological alterations and organ injury (liver and heart) in a low-dose canine lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced sepsis model. Fifteen clinically healthy dogs were randomly categorized into ...
Read More
The present study aimed to examine the effectiveness of silymarin compared to hydrocortisone on clinical and hematological alterations and organ injury (liver and heart) in a low-dose canine lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced sepsis model. Fifteen clinically healthy dogs were randomly categorized into three equal groups: Two dogs in group A, LPS (0.10 μg kg-1, IV) was injected (control, n = 5); Group B was similar to group A, with the difference that silymarin bolus (10.00 mg kg-1, IV, once) was injected 40 min after LPS injection. Group C was similar to group B with the difference that hydrocortisone bolus (2.00 mg kg-1, IV, once) was administrated instead of silymarin. Five mL of blood was collected at baseline, 1, 3, and 6 hr of the study. Septic control dogs experienced a significant reduction in red blood cells count (RBC), hemoglobin (Hb), and hematocrit (HCT) and a significant elevation in serum activities of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), creatine kinase isoenzyme MB (CK-MB), and plasma cardiac troponin I (cTnI) concentration. We noticed a significant increase in RBCs, Hb, and HCT, and a significant decrease in AST, ALP, LDH, CK-MB, and cTnI in the silymarin group in comparison with hydrocortisone and control group. Our results suggested that silymarin had a positive influence on sepsis due to protecting RBCs, and decreasing organ (heart and liver) injury. These findings supported the hypothesis that silymarin could be more effective than routine corticosteroid therapy in sepsis.
Fatemeh Namazi; Aidin Shojaee Tabrizi; Forough Zarei Kordshouli
Volume 11, Issue 3 , September 2020, , Pages 295-297
Abstract
Canine lymphoma is the most common neoplasm of the hematopoietic system with the most frequently diagnosed malignancy. Also, dogs affected by T-cell lymphoma displayed a lower rate of complete chemotherapy response and have a high risk of death in the early stage of the disease. A 5-year-old male mixed ...
Read More
Canine lymphoma is the most common neoplasm of the hematopoietic system with the most frequently diagnosed malignancy. Also, dogs affected by T-cell lymphoma displayed a lower rate of complete chemotherapy response and have a high risk of death in the early stage of the disease. A 5-year-old male mixed dog was presented to the Small Animal Hospital, School of Veterinary Medicine, Shiraz University, Shiraz, Iran with a history of left testicle swelling for four months. The testicle had approximately 13.00×10.00 cm size with a greyish-white cut surface. Histopathologically, the testicular tissue was infiltrated by neoplastic cells as only a few degenerated seminiferous tubules have remained. The neoplastic cells were round to oval with pleomorphic nuclei and single or multiple prominent nucleoli. Immunohistochemical analysis revealed positive and negative immunoreactivity for CD3 and CD20, respectively. According to histopathological and immunohistochemical features, the tumor was concluded as a testicular T-cell lymphoma. It seems that recognition of lymphoma type could be helpful for clinicians therapeutic protocols.
Soroush Sabiza; Annahita Rezaie; Reza Avizeh; Navid Razmian; Reza Samaei; Ali Aghababaie
Volume 11, Issue 2 , June 2020, , Pages 195-198
Abstract
An eleven-year-old Doberman-German Shepherd mixed bitch was presented with vulvar enlargement, vaginal discharge, and bleeding for two months and a week before, respectively. The dog was operated for routine ovariohysterectomy. During the surgery, a liquid-filled sac was observed on the ventrolateral ...
Read More
An eleven-year-old Doberman-German Shepherd mixed bitch was presented with vulvar enlargement, vaginal discharge, and bleeding for two months and a week before, respectively. The dog was operated for routine ovariohysterectomy. During the surgery, a liquid-filled sac was observed on the ventrolateral border of the right uterine horn. The sac was ligated and excised. The uterine horns and ovaries were stained for histopathological evaluation. Granulosa cell tumor (GCT), adenomyosis (CUA), endometrial cystic hyperplasia (CEH), and uterine serosal inclusion cyst (USC) were diagnosed through histopathology assessment. Following up, 12 weeks after surgery revealed that the patient was in good condition with a good appetite and without any vaginal discharge. It seems the initial problem of the present bitch and the main cause of clinical signs was GCT. Probably, other abnormal conditions including CUA, CEH, and USC occurred as a result of hormonal disturbance associated with GCT. This report described the concurrent occurrence of GCT, CUA, CEH, and USC in a bitch as it has not been reported before.
Clinical Pathology
Mohammad Reza Esmaili Nejad; Rana Vafaei; Majid Masoudifard; Seyed Mahdi Nasiri; Atena Salimi
Volume 10, Issue 4 , December 2019, , Pages 361-364
Abstract
Canine osteosarcoma (OS) or osteogenic sarcoma is an aggressive tumor of the skeletal system, associated with a rapid progression and guarded prognosis. The osteosarcomas, mostly arise from the appendicular skeleton while axial OS (osteosarcoma of flat bones) are less reported in the majority of large ...
Read More
Canine osteosarcoma (OS) or osteogenic sarcoma is an aggressive tumor of the skeletal system, associated with a rapid progression and guarded prognosis. The osteosarcomas, mostly arise from the appendicular skeleton while axial OS (osteosarcoma of flat bones) are less reported in the majority of large breeds. This report describes complete para-clinical investigations of an aggressive chondroblastic OS involving facial flat bones with highly metastatic characterization in a large mix breed stray dog. Radiographic and computed tomography findings demonstrated an amorphous and active new bone formation, associated with the severe lytic areas in the left maxillary, orbital and zygomatic bones. Also, lots of nodular densities were distributed in all lung lobes. The cytological examination of the mass revealed individualized oval to spindle-shaped pleomorphic mesenchymal cells exhibiting many criteria of malignancy such as marked anisocytosis, anisokaryosis, prominent and multiple nucleoli. The punctate cytoplasmic vacuoles were obvious and bi-nucleated cells were frequently observed. These cells were seen in the background of an eosinophilic matrix. Histopathologic evaluation of the mass exhibited areas of osseous differentiation within the mass containing bony spicules and wavy bone formation along with the vast areas of cartilaginous differentiations with chondroblasts in lacunar spaces. Ultimately, chondroblastic OS with severe lung metastasis was confirmed and the animal was euthanized.
Theriogenology
Parisa Aparnak; Adel Saberivand
Volume 10, Issue 3 , September 2019, , Pages 221-226
Abstract
Canine seminal plasma contains antioxidant enzymes to protect sperm against internally generated ROS. These enzymes are removed from seminal plasma during the process of cryopreservation. The freezing/thawing process can cause some morphological and functional changes via ice crystallization and osmolality ...
Read More
Canine seminal plasma contains antioxidant enzymes to protect sperm against internally generated ROS. These enzymes are removed from seminal plasma during the process of cryopreservation. The freezing/thawing process can cause some morphological and functional changes via ice crystallization and osmolality imbalance. The present study was conducted to evaluate the effects of curcumin supplementation on sperm total count, motility, progressive motility, viability, morphology, total antioxidant capacity (TAC), DNA integrityand NOX5 gene expression of dog frozen semen. The pooled semen was allocated to fresh (Group 1) and frozen (Group 2) controls, curcumin (2.50 mM) (Group 3) and curcumin (5.00 mM), (Group 4). Sperm parameters including total sperm count, morphology, motility, progressive motility, sperm concentration and DNA integrity in addition to TAC were evaluated in fresh and frozen-thawed semen samples. Real-time PCR was used to investigate NOX5 and GADPH (reference gene) genes expressions. Curcumin at 2.50 mM provided a greater protective effect on the DNA integrity compared to 5.00 mM and control groups. TAC was significantly higher in 2.50 mM group than other groups. NOX5 gene expression in curcumin 2.50 mM was higher than 5.00 mM group. In conclusion, curcumin seems to emolliate sperm parameters and to protect sperm against sperm reactive oxygen stress and increases NOX5 gene expression.
Small Animal Internal Medicine
Mehdi Saberi; Hadi Tavakkoli; Ali Najmaddini; Mahdieh Rezaei
Volume 10, Issue 3 , September 2019, , Pages 249-253
Abstract
Influenza is a highly contagious zoonotic disease in the world. Avian H9N2 influenza virus is a significant pandemic pathogen widely distributed throughout the world. Pet ownership has been documented as a risk factor for infection transmission to human. Considering major public health concern, the prevalence ...
Read More
Influenza is a highly contagious zoonotic disease in the world. Avian H9N2 influenza virus is a significant pandemic pathogen widely distributed throughout the world. Pet ownership has been documented as a risk factor for infection transmission to human. Considering major public health concern, the prevalence of antibodies against avian H9N2 influenza virus was evaluated in 170 serum samples of dogs by hemagglutination inhibition assay. This study is the first survey to assess the epidemiology of avian H9N2 influenza virus infection in dogs in Kerman, southeast of Iran. Out of 170 samples, 65 (38.23%) were positive for H9N2. Antibodies were higher in farm dogs that were kept with other animals and also in dogs were fed a raw diet. These findings emphasize the importance of close attention to these populations for control and prevention programs. It is important to reduce infection burden, especially in regions with widespread distribution of H9N2.
Small Animal Internal Medicine
Tommaso Furlanello; Ida Reale
Volume 10, Issue 3 , September 2019, , Pages 261-265
Abstract
Immune-mediated hemolytic anemia (IMHA) is a common cause of anemia in dogs. The immune aggression towards erythrocytes can be triggered by many pathological conditions such as infection, inflammatory disease or neoplasia. Upon ruling out any eliciting conditions, a diagnosis of the primary immune-mediated ...
Read More
Immune-mediated hemolytic anemia (IMHA) is a common cause of anemia in dogs. The immune aggression towards erythrocytes can be triggered by many pathological conditions such as infection, inflammatory disease or neoplasia. Upon ruling out any eliciting conditions, a diagnosis of the primary immune-mediated disease can be made. In this particular case of severe anemia (tested positive for circulating antibodies against red blood cells with flow cytometry), vector-borne diseases (which are a common cause of immunopathology in Mediterranean countries) were excluded, leptospirosis was not. This resulted in an unsuccessful immunosuppressive therapy with prednisone, two whole blood transfusions and ultimately death of the patient. Leptospirosis (confirmed positive in two tests, micro-agglutination test for antibodies and PCR for microbial DNA in urine), can mimic a primary IMHA and must be considered in its differential list of causes. A liver involvement, that included elevated serum activity of liver enzymes and increased serum bile acid was observed at the admission and suggested an etiopathogenesis other than a primary IMHA.
Diagnostic Imaging
Yasamin Vali; Sarang Soroori; Mohammad Molazem; Majid Masoudifard; Alireza Vajhi; Samaneh Keshavarz; Hesameddin Akbarein
Volume 10, Issue 1 , March 2019, , Pages 17-22
Abstract
Prostate gland can be structurally evaluated by computed tomography (CT) with taking advantages of tomographic feature and post-contrast parenchymal changes. The current examination initiated to determine association between computed tomographic and cytological results in evaluation of canine prostate. ...
Read More
Prostate gland can be structurally evaluated by computed tomography (CT) with taking advantages of tomographic feature and post-contrast parenchymal changes. The current examination initiated to determine association between computed tomographic and cytological results in evaluation of canine prostate. Thirty mature male dogs were included and under gone by both CT and fine needle sampling of prostate. The cytology and CT examination results showed 18/30 (60.00%) and 15/30 (50.00%) normal prostate, 5/30 (16.66%) and 4/30 (13.33%) prostatitis and 7/30 (23.33%) and 11/30 (36.66%) benign prostatic hyperplasia, respectively. Moderate agreement has been found between cytology and final diagnosis based on pre-contrast CT images, however fair agreement was existed between cytological diagnosis and final CT interpretation according to post-contrast and both pre- and post- contrast CT series. Additionally, the internal iliac lymph node length showed statistically significant difference in prostatitis compared to normal and benign hyperplastic prostates in this study. In conclusion, the fair and moderate associations between cytology and final diagnosis based on CT images should be considered and they can be used in further investigations and clinical examinations. Also, using internal iliac lymph node length to differentiate prostatitis with normal and benign hyperplastic prostates can be used efficiently in diagnosis to choose the best method of management and have a proper follow up and prognosis.
Diagnostic Imaging
Salah Nadimi; Mohammad Molazem; Seyedhosein Jarolmasjed; Mohammad Reza Esmaili Nejad
Volume 9, Issue 4 , December 2018, , Pages 337-341
Abstract
The objective of this study was to evaluate the pituitary gland dimensions due to age and weight using computed tomography (CT) in dogs and cats. The CT images of pituitary gland were assessed in 11 client-owned dogs (six males and five females; age range, 1 to 9 years) and 15 client-owned cats (eight ...
Read More
The objective of this study was to evaluate the pituitary gland dimensions due to age and weight using computed tomography (CT) in dogs and cats. The CT images of pituitary gland were assessed in 11 client-owned dogs (six males and five females; age range, 1 to 9 years) and 15 client-owned cats (eight males and seven females; age range, 1 to 14 years) with no evidence of pituitary diseases. The length, height, width and volume of the pituitary gland were measured in sagittal and transverse planes. Mean pituitary length, width, height and volume (± standard deviation: SD) were respectively 4.96 (± 0.69 mm), 3.62 (± 0.64 mm), 2.62 (± 0.05 mm) and 26.19 (± 7.99 mm3) in cats and were 7.00 (± 2.14 mm), 4.80 (± 1.20 mm), 3.80 (± 0.70 mm) and 77.53 (± 51.64 mm3) in dogs, respectively. Mean pituitary height-to-brain ratio (P:B ratio), (± SD) in cats and dogs was 0.28 (± 0.05) and 0.21 (± 0.03), respectively and mean percent of pituitary volume to brain volume (± SD) in cats and dogs was 0.10 (± 0.05) and 0.10 (± 0.07), respectively. There was no significant correlation between the size of pituitary gland and age, weight and body condition score (BCS) in dogs, however in cats, significant difference was found between height of pituitary gland and weight and BCS, pituitary width and weight and P:B ratio and BCS. These findings could be useful to identify abnormal pituitary gland enlargement in CT images. To be more accurate in the assessments, further studies are required.
Parasitology
Noushin Derakhshandeh; Hassan Sharifiyazdi; Mohammad Abbaszadeh Hasiri
Volume 8, Issue 4 , December 2017, , Pages 347-351
Abstract
Ehrlichiosis is a zoonotic disease which has been reported from some regions of Iran. This study was aimed to determine the presence and prevalence of ehrlichiosis in suspected dogs referred to the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Shiraz University, Shiraz, Iran using polymerase chain reaction(PCR). Blood ...
Read More
Ehrlichiosis is a zoonotic disease which has been reported from some regions of Iran. This study was aimed to determine the presence and prevalence of ehrlichiosis in suspected dogs referred to the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Shiraz University, Shiraz, Iran using polymerase chain reaction(PCR). Blood samples were collected from 98 suspected dogs with at least one of the five following findings: thrombocytopenia, anemia (hematocrit < 37.00%), gastrointestinal signs and respiratory and/or central nervous system diseases. Complete blood count was performed for each sample. After genomic DNA extraction, PCR assay was carried out using a commercial PCR kit. The results showed that only three out of 98 samples (3.06%) were positive for ehrlichiosis. There was no significant difference in hematological parameters between infected and non-infected cases. These results emphasize that ehrlichiosis has a low prevalence among examined cases in southern Iran. Further serological and molecular studies are needed to clarify the epidemiological feature of this infection in different areas of Iran.
Pathology
Ghasem Farjanikish; Ahmad Oryan
Volume 8, Issue 1 , March 2017, , Pages 81-84
Abstract
Leydig cell tumor as a sex-cord stromal tumor is a relatively uncommon ovarian tumorin bitch. A 10-year-old female German Shepherd dog was presented because of protrusion of a large tumor-like mass of 16 × 14 × 7 cm in dimensions from her vagina. After stabilization of the patient, the mass ...
Read More
Leydig cell tumor as a sex-cord stromal tumor is a relatively uncommon ovarian tumorin bitch. A 10-year-old female German Shepherd dog was presented because of protrusion of a large tumor-like mass of 16 × 14 × 7 cm in dimensions from her vagina. After stabilization of the patient, the mass was removed surgically and concurrent ovariohysterectomy was also performed. Macroscopically, the healthy tissue of the right ovary was totally replaced by a homogeneous, brown and firm mass. The neoplasm was well-circumscribed and nodular and it was clearly demarcated from the healthy tissue. Histological examination revealed the presence of solid sheets and acinar structures composed of polyhedral to elongated cells. The neoplastic cells had large, eosinophilic, and vacuolated cytoplasms with round to oval nuclei and expressed vimentin on immunohistochemical examination. These gross, microscopic and immuno-histochemical features are characteristics of ovarian Leydig cell tumor.
Clinical Pathology
Labrini Vasileiou Athanasiou; Zoe Polizopoulou; Maria Rafaela Kalafati; George Ntararas; Vasileios Kontos
Volume 7, Issue 4 , December 2016, , Pages 281-285
Abstract
To assess the effects of pre-analytical handling (storage time and temperature) on selected hematological parameters, whole blood samples were collected in EDTA coated tubes from each of 30 clinically normal male adult beagle dogs. Each sample was separated in 2 aliquots, of which one was stored in ambient ...
Read More
To assess the effects of pre-analytical handling (storage time and temperature) on selected hematological parameters, whole blood samples were collected in EDTA coated tubes from each of 30 clinically normal male adult beagle dogs. Each sample was separated in 2 aliquots, of which one was stored in ambient temperature (25 ˚C) and the other one was refrigerated (2 to 4 ˚C). Complete blood counts were performed in 1, 2.5, 5, 12, 24, 36 and 60 hr post-sampling for each aliquot of every sample using a flow cytometer. Packed cell volume values remained stable in the samples kept in room temperature (RT), whereas a significant increase was noted in the refrigerated ones 24 hr post-sampling. Statistically significant increases in red blood cell counts were noted after 24hr in the samples stored in 2 to 4 ˚C and after 12 hr in those kept in RT. No significant changes were observed in haemoglobin concentration. A significant decrease was evident only 60 hr post-sampling for the white blood cells kept in RT, but not for those kept in 2 to 4 ˚C. Platelet counts significantly decreased after 24 hr in the refrigerated aliquots and after 5 hr in those kept in RT. The results of this study indicate that storage of blood samples for up to 24 hr in 2 to 4 ˚C is associated with the least artifactual changes.
Parasitology
Zabiholah Zarei; Eshrat Beigom Kia; Zahra Heidari; Fattaneh Mikaeili; Mehdi Mohebali; Meysam Sharifdini
Volume 7, Issue 4 , December 2016, , Pages 329-334
Abstract
Dirofilaria immitis is an important filarial nematode in dogs. In this study, age and sex distribution of this zoonotic nematode among dogs were investigated in northwest of Iran in Meshkin-Shahr city. Molecular characteristics of the isolates, based on cytochrome oxidase subunit 1 (COX1) gene were compared ...
Read More
Dirofilaria immitis is an important filarial nematode in dogs. In this study, age and sex distribution of this zoonotic nematode among dogs were investigated in northwest of Iran in Meshkin-Shahr city. Molecular characteristics of the isolates, based on cytochrome oxidase subunit 1 (COX1) gene were compared to the isolates from other areas of the world.Blood samples were collected from 91 dogs which were selected by simple classified accidental sampling. Thin and thick blood smear examinations were used to find out infectivity with D. immitis. DNA extraction was performed from adult D. immitis recovered from heart of infected dogs. The COX1 gene was amplified and sequenced. Phylogenetic analysis was carried out using sequences obtained in this study along with relevant sequences deposited in the GenBank. Phylogenetic analysis and sequence variation was performed using MEGA software in comparison with those COX1 sequences deposited in GenBank. Out of 91 dogs, 19 (20.87%) were found positive for infection with D. immitis. There was no statistically significant difference between males and females of dogs in terms of D. immitis infection. However, the rate of infection in dogs more than 2 years old was significantly higher than those with lower age. Both sequences analyzed in this study showed 100% homology to each other. Intra-species variation of these isolates with those from other areas of the world amounted to 0 to 0.50%. Phylogenetic analysis of the COX1 gene suggested that it is conserved, and can be used for study on genetic diversity and classification of filarial nematodes.
Theriogenology
Sahar Nouri Gharajelar; Rajab Ali Sadrkhanloo; Masoud Onsori; Adel Saberivand
Volume 7, Issue 3 , September 2016, , Pages 235-239
Abstract
Cryopreservation has the capacity to extend spermatozoa’s lifespan and viability. In addition, the semen samples can be collected, preserved and stored or sent to distant locations and still be used long after the death of the semen donor. In this study for the vitrification of dog sperm (fresh ...
Read More
Cryopreservation has the capacity to extend spermatozoa’s lifespan and viability. In addition, the semen samples can be collected, preserved and stored or sent to distant locations and still be used long after the death of the semen donor. In this study for the vitrification of dog sperm (fresh and swum-up sperm), different cryopreservation mediums on the basis of glycerol, milk and egg yolk were used. Then, all of the samples were vitrified in the liquid nitrogen and thawed at least 48 hr later for re-examination of sperm parameters. The sperm parameters before and after cryopreservation in all groups were compared. It was found that during vitrification process, spermatozoa were damaged by the mechanical blows in centrifugation during swim-up processing, so they had less resistance than fresh semen. The examination of different cryoprotectants revealed that milk has better effects on the cryopreservation of semen than glycerol and egg yolk. With the comparison of the effects of glycerol and egg yolk as cryoprotectants, it was found that glycerol had better effects than egg yolk on the cryopreservation of the semen. In conclusion, milk might be used as a cryoprotectant instead of glycerol for canine sperm cryopreservation.
Radiology
Fatemeh Neshat Halati; Alireza Vajhi; Mohammad Molazem; Mohammad Mehdi Dehghan; Fereshteh Ansari
Volume 7, Issue 3 , September 2016, , Pages 261-266
Abstract
Dogs presented to the Small Animal Hospital of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran were included in the present study if spinal or intervertebral disc involvement was suspected. Clinical signs were recorded as well as general information of the patient such as age, breed and sex. Sixty dogs were ...
Read More
Dogs presented to the Small Animal Hospital of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran were included in the present study if spinal or intervertebral disc involvement was suspected. Clinical signs were recorded as well as general information of the patient such as age, breed and sex. Sixty dogs were examined radiographically and two standard orthogonal lateral and ventrodorsal projections were taken from the suspected region. Then magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was performed for all patients. Agreement between MRI and radiographic findings, comparison of sex and breed with diagnostic imaging grades, comparison between diagnostic imaging grades and mean age, recovery rate after surgery or medical treatment, effects of diagnostic imaging severity grades on surgical or medical referrals were evaluated statistically. There were no significant association between age, sex and breed and frequency of the intervertebral disk disease. Intervertebral disc involvements between L2-L3 and T13-L1 were estimated as the most frequent sites of involvements. Sensitivity and specificity of radiography were evaluated 90.0% and 46.0%, respectively, by considering the MRI as a gold standard modality. There was a significant association between severity of disease in the MRI with referral to surgery and medical treatment. The recovery rate after surgery was significantly higher than medical treatment. These results can be used as a foundation for other studies with more focuses on details of injury and larger group of patients.
Large Animal Surgery
Soroush Sabiza; Ahmad Khajeh; Hadi Naddaf
Volume 7, Issue 3 , September 2016, , Pages 271-274
Abstract
Tendon rupture in dogs is generally the result of a direct trauma. This report described the use of adjacent muscle autogenic fascial graft for reconstruction of distal rupture of long digital extensor tendon in a dog. A two-year-old male mix breed dog, was presented with a non-weight bearing lameness ...
Read More
Tendon rupture in dogs is generally the result of a direct trauma. This report described the use of adjacent muscle autogenic fascial graft for reconstruction of distal rupture of long digital extensor tendon in a dog. A two-year-old male mix breed dog, was presented with a non-weight bearing lameness of the right hind limb and a deep rupture of lateral side of right tarsus. History taking revealed that this rupture appeared without any apparent cause, when walking around the farm, three days before. Radiography was done and no fracture was observed. Hyperextension of right tarsal joint compared to left limb was observed. Under general anesthesia, after dissections of the ruptured area, complete rupture of long digital extensor tendonwas revealed. Then, we attempted to locate the edge of the tendon, however, the tendon length was shortened approximately 1 cm. Hence, a strip of 1 cm length from fascia of cranial tibial muscle was harvested to fill the defect. The graft was sutured to the two ends of tendon using locking loop pattern. Subcutaneous layers and the skin were sutured routinely. Ehmer sling bandage was applied to prevent weight bearing on the surgical region. Re-examination and phone contact with the owner eight weeks and six months postoperatively revealed a poor lameness and excellent function of the dog, respectively. It could be concluded that the fascia of adjacent muscles can be used as an autogenic graft for reconstruction of some tendon ruptures.
