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Protozoal abortion in cattle was retrospectively studied by examining material submitted to the Batchelar Animal Health Laboratory in the years 1987-90. Only cases in which foetal brain had been submitted were examined. Histologically, protozoal lesions were seen in the brains of 28% of 320 aborted foetuses. Lesions were also seen in 10% of the hearts and 34% of the placentas examined, but these were not as characteristic as those in the brains. Protozoa, confirmed immunohistochemically as being Neospora caninum-like in two brains, were seen in 5% of aborted foetuses with lesions. No protozoa or associated lesions were seen in 57 late term foetuses or neonatal controls. A farm survey supported the hypothesis that Neospora is an important cause of multiple abortions in cattle. Laboratory and farm data suggested that protozoal abortion was more common in early gestation. No predisposing causes of abortion were found and there was no evidence of point infection of affected herds.

(1988). Malignant histiocytosis in a Bernese Mountain Dog. New Zealand Veterinary Journal: Vol. 36, No. 1, pp. 43-43.

Two cases of canine cutaneous histiocytosis are described. Diagnosis depended on overall consideration of clinical and histopathological features of the disease, as well as its response to anti-inflammatory therapy. No aetiological agent was visible using light and electron microscopy.