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Background: Lipofuscin-like cytoplasmic inclusions have been reported in human blood neutrophils and monocytes but have not been described in dogs. In people, these "green granules of death" have been associated with moderate to severe hepatocellular injury and high mortality., Objectives: To describe clinicopathologic abnormalities, diagnoses, and outcomes of dogs with greenish inclusions in blood neutrophils or monocytes, and to determine if the inclusions have features of lipofuscin., Methods: Clinical cases were identified prospectively through routine evaluation of CBC samples. Leukocyte inclusions were characterized with routine staining and assessed for iron and autofluorescence. Additional cases were identified by examination of archived blood smears from dogs meeting search criteria for hepatocellular injury, and clinicopathologic findings were recorded., Results: All 7 prospectively identified dogs with inclusions had inflammation and moderate to marked increases in serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) activity, as did the 4 dogs identified from the 97 meeting retrospective search criteria. The inclusions were Prussian blue-negative (5/5) with broad-spectrum autofluorescence (5/5) and the appearance of lipofuscin with and without Wright staining. Most clinical diagnoses involved hepatic disorders (5/7 prospective and 3/4 retrospective cases) or pancreatitis (3/7 prospective and 2/4 retrospective cases), and some involved both; 8 of 11 dogs died within 7 days of admission., Conclusions: Blue-green cytoplasmic inclusions uncommonly found in blood neutrophils ± monocytes of routine canine blood smears have stained and unstained properties of lipofuscin and suggest the presence of hepatocellular injury, often severe. Reporting these inclusions is recommended to guide clinical management., (© 2024 The Authors. Veterinary Clinical Pathology published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American Society for Veterinary Clinical Pathology.)

Background: Diascopy is a point-of-care diagnostic test used to differentiate skin erythema due to vascular dilation from haemorrhage. In the veterinary literature, only a handful of diseases have been described to be associated with a negative (nonblanching) diascopy result, and histological investigation of haemorrhage has been inconsistent., Objectives: Retrospective study to undertake a histopathological investigation of canine, nonblanching erythematous dermatoses for the presence or absence of haemorrhage and vascular changes., Materials and Methods: Skin biopsies from dogs presented with moderate-to-severe nonblanching erythema were evaluated histologically. Additionally, clinical data about each patient were analysed., Results: Twenty cases were identified with nonblanching erythema. Diagnoses included vasculopathy (n = 6), canine eosinophilic dermatitis (n = 3), cutaneous epitheliotropic T-cell lymphoma (n = 2), and one case each of sterile granuloma and pyogranuloma syndrome, German shepherd dog pyoderma, multiple mast cell tumours, haemangiosarcoma, exfoliative cutaneous lupus erythematosus, canine leishmaniosis with sebaceous adenitis, sebaceous adenitis with concurrent dermatophytosis, calcinosis cutis and canine atopic dermatitis with insect-bite reaction. One or more vascular changes were present in all 20 cases and included perivascular oedema, endothelial swelling and neutrophilic infiltration of vessel walls. Haemorrhage was identified in 17 of 20 cases (85%). Three cases without dermal haemorrhage were calcinosis cutis, sebaceous adenitis with dermatophytosis and canine atopic dermatitis with insect-bite reaction., Conclusions and Clinical Relevance: Negative diascopy was associated with haemorrhage and vascular pathological findings in the majority of cases, yet not all. Haemorrhage was identified histologically in all diseases previously reported as nonblanching as well as in a few additional diseases., (© 2023 ESVD and ACVD.)

Over the past 2 decades, the increasing availability of computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) as well as the growing professional expertise have significantly improved the diagnostics of middle and inner ear diseases in dogs and cats. In answering some of the diagnostic questions, CT and MRT demonstrate equivalent performance. For most questions, however, there are differences in the diagnostic performance due to the physical imaging properties of the 2 modalities.CT is more sensitive in demonstrating involvement of the bulla wall and is more effective for detecting abnormal content within the tympanic bulla. In addition, with CT it is often easier to guide tissue samplings. On the other hand, structural changes of the soft tissues of the skull, head, meninges, brain, and nerves are not or only insufficiently detectable on CT images. MRI is clearly superior here. Therefore, MRI is essential for the characterization of materials inside the bulla cavity and for demonstrating the extent of any central spread of otitis media (OM).In this image essay, CT and MRI features of OM and resulting secondary lesions described in the literature are analyzed and summarized. Own image examples are used for illustration. Information on the etiology, pathogenesis, pathomorphology, and clinical signs important for understanding these changes are presented in concise descriptions., Competing Interests: The authors declare no conflict of interest related to this report., (Thieme. All rights reserved.)

Recent studies demonstrated that Greyhounds are commonly infected with Ancylostoma caninum and these infections have been shown to be resistant to anthelmintics. This study evaluated samples submitted to a commercial reference laboratory (IDEXX Laboratories) for canine fecal flotation zinc sulfate centrifugation and coproantigen immunoassay between January 1, 2019, and July 30, 2023 for evidence that Greyhounds were more often positive for Ancylostoma spp. (hookworms) compared to other breeds. The purpose of the study was to determine if Greyhounds were more likely to be hookworm-positive compared to other breeds, if Greyhounds on preventives with efficacy against hookworm infections are more likely to test positive than other breeds, if their infections take longer to resolve, to estimate how long this takes and to assess whether the proportion of hookworm positive tests for all breeds is increasing over time. Records of 25,440,055 fecal results were obtained representing 17,671,724 unique dogs. Of these, 49,795 (∼0.3%) were Greyhounds. The overall odds ratio (OR) of 15.3 (p < 0.001) suggests that Greyhounds are at significantly higher risk than other breeds for hookworm positive float findings, and the OR of 14.3 (p < 0.001) suggests significantly higher risk for hookworm antigen positive results. The median time to negative testing event from the Turnbull distribution estimate was in the interval of 1-2 days for other breeds and 71-72 days for Greyhounds. These results provide evidence that anthelmintic resistant A. caninum strains may be having population-level impacts on the frequency and duration of infections in Greyhounds. The findings have broader health implications beyond Greyhounds as MADR A. caninum strains could spread to other breeds and even pet owners., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The study was funded by IDEXX Laboratories, Inc. Westbrook, ME, USA., (Copyright © 2024 The Authors. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

A 10-year-old neutered male Maltese dog was presented for an investigation of lymphocytosis. The dog was up-to-date on vaccinations and deworming. Physical examination did not reveal any significant abnormalities. A complete blood cell count (CBC) showed mild leukocytosis with moderate lymphocytosis, basophilia, and moderate neutropenia, but no significant left shift or toxic change. Serum biochemistry and urinalysis were unremarkable. All performed tests for infectious agents common in this geographical region were negative. No significant abnormalities were found on abdominal ultrasound examination. Multiparametric flow cytometry of peripheral blood showed a CD8 + T-cell lymphocytosis, and PCR for antigen receptor rearrangement revealed a clonal expansion of the T-cell receptor gamma chain genes. A clinical diagnosis of chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) was made, and follow-up was recommended. On Day 48 post-presentation, the CBC showed mild non-regenerative anemia (NRA), moderate leucocytosis due to moderate to marked lymphocytosis, basophilia, and a marked increase in hyposegmented neutrophils with mild toxic change in the absence of neutrophilia or neutropenia. Treatment with chlorambucil and prednisolone was initiated. On Days 87 and 197 post-presentation, the CBC showed mild NRA, with progressively decreasing numbers of hyposegmented neutrophils. The dog remained without clinical signs. Basophilia and probable pseudo-Pelger-Huët anomaly were possibly secondary to CLL. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first report of these two hematologic conditions secondary to CLL in dogs. Recognition of a pseudo-Pelger-Huët anomaly is clinically relevant to avoid misinterpretation as a marked left shift due to severe inflammation and prevent unnecessary urgent therapeutic actions., (© 2024 The Authors. Veterinary Clinical Pathology published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American Society for Veterinary Clinical Pathology.)

Molecular surveillance of canine tick-borne pathogens (TBPs) in Bangladesh has constantly been undervalued. Therefore, the emergence of new pathogens often remains undetected. This study aimed to screen tick-borne pathogens in stray dogs and ticks in the Dhaka metropolitan area (DMA). Eighty-five dog blood and 53 ticks were collected in six city districts of DMA from September 2022 to January 2023. The ticks were identified by morphology. Screening of TBPs was performed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR), followed by sequencing. The PCR assays were conducted to analyze the 18S rRNA (Babesia gibsoni, B. vogeli, and Hepatozoon canis), 16S rRNA (Anaplasma phagocytophilum, A. platys, and A. bovis), gltA (Ehrlichia canis and Rickettsia spp.), flagellin B (Borrelia spp.) and 16-23S rRNA (Bartonella spp.). Three tick species, Rhipicephalus sanguineus (50/53), R. microplus (1/53), and Haemaphysalis bispinosa (2/53), were identified. Babesia gibsoni (38 out of 85) and A. platys (7 out of 85) were detected in dog blood. In contrast, four pathogens, B. gibsoni (1 out of 53), B. vogeli (1 out of 53), H. canis (22 out of 53), and A. platys (1 out of 53), were detected in the ticks. However, the detection rates of TBPs in dog blood and ticks were not correlated in this study. The phylogenetic analyses suggested that a single genotype for each of the four pathogens is circulating in DMA. This study reports the existence of B. vogeli, H. canis, and A. platys in Bangladesh for the first time., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest None., (Copyright © 2023. Published by Elsevier B.V.)

A 9-year-old dog was presented with weight loss, respiratory effort, and an enlarged abdomen. Imaging studies and exploratory surgery showed pulmonary and splenic masses and bi-cavitary effusion, later classified as hemorrhage. Cytology of the peritoneal and pleural fluids also revealed several microfilariae. Immunologic and molecular analyses confirmed Dirofilaria immitis infection and histopathology of the spleen indicated a cavernous endothelial proliferation with undefined etiology (hemangiosarcoma vs reaction to parasite infestation). The nematode larvae are speculated to have entered body cavities via erratic migration or via hemorrhage and visceral lesions to be related to parasitism. Nematode infection should be considered as a differential diagnosis for internal bleeding of undetermined origin., (© 2024 American Society for Veterinary Clinical Pathology.)

An acute, unilateral othematoma was diagnosed in a 9-year-old mixed-breed dog. There was no clinical or anamnestic evidence for the cause of the othematoma. During diagnostic work-up, marked hyperglobulinemia and marked thrombocytopenia were detected. This was a consequence of a multiple myeloma. This is the first case report of a dog with othematoma secondary to coagulopathy associated with multiple myeloma., Competing Interests: Die Autoren haben keine Interessenkonflikte zu deklarieren., (Thieme. All rights reserved.)

A 3-year-old male neutered domestic shorthair cat and a 2-year-old male neutered Labrador-mix dog were separately presented to the Veterinary Medical Center for evaluation after sustaining significant muscle trauma due to a dog attack and seizure activity, respectively. In both cases, biochemical analysis was consistent with rhabdomyolysis. Additionally, a markedly increased measured serum bicarbonate concentration and negative calculated anion gap were observed. As these biochemical abnormalities were not expected and deemed incompatible with life, an interference with the analyzer measurement of bicarbonate involving marked increases in pyruvate and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) following myocyte injury was suspected. Venous blood gas analysis calculated bicarbonate concentration and anion gap were within reference interval, while measured LDH activity was markedly increased. These findings supported an analyzer-generated interference. This is the first published report of a previously described chemistry analyzer interference of markedly increased LDH activity with serum bicarbonate concentration measurement in dogs and cats. Awareness of this interference is important, particularly in the emergency setting, as it may influence case management., (© 2024 The Authors. Veterinary Clinical Pathology published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American Society for Veterinary Clinical Pathology.)

Canine urothelial carcinoma (UC) and prostate carcinoma (PC) frequently exhibit the BRAF V595E mutation, akin to the BRAF V600E mutation common in various human cancers. Since the initial discovery of the BRAF mutation in canine cancers in 2015, PCR has been the standard method for its detection in both liquid and tissue biopsies. Considering the similarity between the canine BRAF V595E and human BRAF V600E mutations, we hypothesized that immunohistochemistry (IHC) using a BRAF V600E -specific antibody could effectively identify the canine mutant BRAF V595E protein. We tested 122 canine UC (bladder n = 108, urethra n = 14), 21 PC, and benign tissue using IHC and performed digital droplet PCR (ddPCR) on all 122 UC and on 14 IHC positive PC cases. The results from ddPCR and IHC were concordant in 99% (135/136) of the tumours. Using IHC, BRAF V595E was detected in 72/122 (59%) UC and 14/21 (65%) PC. Staining of all benign bladder and prostate tissues was negative. If present, mutant BRAF staining was homogenous, with rare intratumour heterogeneity in three (4%) cases of UC. Additionally, the BRAF V595E mutation was more prevalent in tumours with urothelial morphology, and less common in glandular PC or UC with divergent differentiation. This study establishes that BRAF V600 -specific IHC is a reliable and accurate method for detecting the mutant BRAF V595E protein in canine UC and PC. Moreover, the use of IHC, especially with tissue microarrays, provides a cost-efficient test for large-scale screening of canine cancers for the presence of BRAF mutations. This advancement paves the way for further research to define the prognostic and predictive role of this tumour marker in dogs and use IHC to stratify dogs for the treatment with BRAF inhibitors., (© 2024 The Authors. Veterinary and Comparative Oncology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Canine lymphoma is a disease with high morbidity and poor long-term prognosis, despite a high response rate to chemotherapy. In this study, we focused on liquid biopsy, in which small amounts of substances from body fluids were analysed, to determine whether cell-free DNA (cfDNA) in the plasma can be used as a biomarker for lymphoma in dogs. We found that 23 patients with lymphoma had significantly higher cfDNA concentrations than the 12 healthy dogs (median 2360 ng/mL versus 299 ng/mL, p < .0001). Polymerase chain reaction for antigen receptor rearrangement (PARR) was also employed using cfDNA from the lymphoma group to investigate whether cfDNA could be used for the detection of genetic clonality of lymphomas, as well as the genomic DNA (gDNA) extracted from an original lesion in each case. The correlation of the PARR results between cfDNA and gDNA was observed in 100% of B-cell lymphomas (10/10), 77.8% of T-cell lymphomas (7/9), and 100% of other types of lymphomas (4/4), respectively. These results indicate that plasma cfDNA levels are increasing in canine lymphoma patients, that cfDNA concentration can be a novel diagnostic tool, and that it can be used as a diagnostic tool for PARR., (© 2024 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

A 12-year-old spayed female Dalmatian presented with acute vomiting and anorexia. The clinicopathological and imaging abnormalities included icterus, biliary obstruction, and multiple diffuse splenic hypoechogenic nodules. Cholecystectomy was performed to remove the obstruction, followed by liver biopsy and splenectomy. Histopathological and immunohistology evaluation of the spleen, liver, and gallbladder revealed splenic marginal zone lymphoma (MZL) with gallbladder and hepatic infiltration of neoplastic CD20/CD79α-positive cells. Moreover, we observed clonal rearrangements of the immunoglobulin heavy-chain (IgH) gene in all three tissues. The dog was in good condition without chemotherapy. However, there was progressive elevation of liver enzymes, which could be attributed to neoplastic hepatic infiltration. Chlorambucil and prednisolone were administered until day 108, when the liver enzyme levels normalized. On day 156, the dog developed diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL) of the peripheral lymph nodes. Sequence analysis of the clonally rearranged IgH gene revealed that all neoplastic cells in the spleen, gallbladder, and liver at initial presentation, as well as lymph nodes on day 156, possessed the same sequence identity of the amplified IgH fragments. This demonstrated that all neoplastic cells were derived from the same B-lymphocyte clone. The DLBCL was considered to have transformed from the splenic MZL, with gallbladder involvement. In cases of splenic MZL, it is important to consider gallbladder involvement and transformation to DLBCL. Moreover, gallbladder lymphoma should be included in the differential diagnosis of dogs with gallbladder abnormalities. Further studies are warranted to investigate the prognosis of splenic MZL., (© 2024 American Society for Veterinary Clinical Pathology.)

Background: Procalcitonin (PCT) is a useful biomarker in humans in the identification of bacterial respiratory infections., Objectives: The aim of this study was to investigate the utility of serum PCT measurements as a diagnostic biomarker in canine bacterial lower respiratory tract diseases., Methods: PCT concentrations were measured in serum samples with an ELISA method previously validated for dogs. All dogs underwent thorough clinical examinations, and the diagnosis of respiratory disease was based on clinical and laboratory findings, diagnostic imaging, as well as cytology and bacterial culture of respiratory samples. PCT concentrations between different cohorts of dogs were compared with an ANOVA-model., Results: Sixty-two privately owned dogs with respiratory diseases, 25 with bacterial pneumonia (BP), 17 with bacterial bronchitis caused by Bordetella bronchiseptica (BB), and 20 with chronic bronchitis (CB) as well as 44 healthy controls were included in the study. Serum PCT concentrations in dogs with bacterial respiratory diseases (BP mean 51.8 ng/L ± standard deviation [SD] 40.6 ng/L and BB mean 61.4 ng/L ± SD 35.3 ng/L) were not significantly different when compared with dogs with a non-bacterial respiratory disease (CB mean 89.7 ± SD 73.5 ng/L) or healthy dogs (mean 51.0 ng/L ± SD 37.5 ng/L, p > .05 in all comparisons)., Conclusions: These results indicate that despite being a valuable diagnostic, prognostic, and follow-up marker in humans with pneumonia, serum PCT concentrations are not elevated in dogs with bacterial respiratory diseases and, therefore, cannot be used as a diagnostic biomarker in dogs., (© 2024 The Authors. Veterinary Clinical Pathology published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American Society for Veterinary Clinical Pathology.)

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is defined as an injury to the renal parenchyma, with or without a decrease in kidney function, as reflected by accumulation of uremic toxins or altered urine production (i.e., increased or decreased). AKI might result from any of several factors, including ischemia, inflammation, nephrotoxins, and infectious diseases. AKI can be community- or hospital-acquired. The latter was not previously considered a common cause for AKI in animals; however, recent evidence suggests that the prevalence of hospital-acquired AKI is increasing in veterinary medicine. This is likely due to a combination of increased recognition and awareness of AKI, as well as increased treatment intensity (e.g., ventilation and prolonged hospitalization) in some veterinary patients and increased management of geriatric veterinary patients with multiple comorbidities. Advancements in the management of AKI, including the increased availability of renal replacement therapies, have been made; however, the overall mortality of animals with AKI remains high. Despite the high prevalence of AKI and the high mortality rate, the body of evidence regarding the diagnosis and the management of AKI in veterinary medicine is very limited. Consequently, the International Renal Interest Society (IRIS) constructed a working group to provide guidelines for animals with AKI. Recommendations are based on the available literature and the clinical experience of the members of the working group and reflect consensus of opinion. Fifty statements were generated and were voted on in all aspects of AKI and explanatory text can be found either before or after each statement., (Copyright © 2024. Published by Elsevier Ltd.)

A Swiss mountain dog, ~3 y old, was brought to a veterinary clinic because of a progressive enlargement of the abdomen. Upon clinical examination, a large mass was detected. After surgical extraction, the mass was confirmed to be a large ovarian teratoma. The weight of the tumor was > 16% of the dog's overall body weight. The dog recovered fully after surgery. The observations from this case suggest that, although teratomas are rare, prompt and accurate diagnosis is necessary to prevent further growth of these masses and to ensure positive outcomes., (Copyright and/or publishing rights held by the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association.)

A 3-month-old female English setter dog was presented to the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine of the Université de Montréal (Quebec) with acute respiratory distress. The dog had moderately increased C-reactive protein concentrations, and thoracic radiographs revealed a moderate, caudodorsal, nodular-to-miliary alveolo-interstitial pulmonary pattern that was worse in the perihilar region. Initial differential diagnoses included a fungal pneumonia ( e.g. , blastomycosis or histoplasmosis). Cytology of the bronchoalveolar lavage revealed several round, green structures ~2 μm in diameter, consistent with fungal spores. The dog was hospitalized, but within 24 h the respiratory condition deteriorated and euthanasia was elected. Post-mortem panfungal PCR and sequencing tests identified the spores as Lycoperdon sp. Retrospectively, the owners recalled that the dog had played in a wood pile with mushrooms and had sneezed in a cloud of spores, implying inhalation of Lycoperdon spores. This is the first report of a confirmed case of canine lycoperdonosis in eastern Canada (Quebec), and the radiographic features in this case differed slightly from previous reports. Diagnosis before bronchoalveolar lavage analysis was challenging, as spore inhalation was not initially reported. Although the disease is infrequently reported in dogs, this case report reminds veterinarians to consider lycoperdonosis as a differential diagnosis when addressing animals presented with acute dyspnea with similar radiographic lesions, and highlights the importance of history and cytology in diagnosing this condition. Key clinical message: Hypersensitivity pneumonitis secondary to inhalation of Lycoperdon spores must be included in differential diagnoses for a dog with acute onset of respiratory signs and a nodular-to-miliary interstitial pulmonary pattern coalescing in patchy perihilar alveolar pulmonary lesions, and should prompt clinicians to question owners regarding inhalation of mushroom spores.Although cytological examination of a bronchoalveolar lavage reveals the presence of fungal spores, panfungal PCR and sequencing tests are needed to pinpoint the species involved., (Copyright and/or publishing rights held by the Canadian Veterinary Medical Association.)

Canine tick-borne diseases, such as babesiosis, rangeliosis, hepatozoonosis, anaplasmosis and ehrlichiosis, are of veterinarian relevance, causing mild or severe clinical cases that can lead to the death of the dog. The aim of this study was detecting tick-borne protozoan and rickettsial infections in dogs with anemia and/or thrombocytopenia in Uruguay. A total of 803 domestic dogs were evaluated, and 10% were found positive (detected by PCR) at least for one hemoparasite. Sequence analysis confirmed the presence of four hemoprotozoan species: Rangelia vitalii, Babesia vogeli, Hepatozoon canis and Hepatozoon americanum, and the rickettsial Anaplasma platys. The most detected hemoparasite was R. vitalii, followed by H. canis and A. platys. This is the first report of B. vogeli in Uruguay and the second report of H. americanum in dogs from South America. The results highlight the importance for veterinarians to include hemoparasitic diseases in their differential diagnosis of agents causing anemia and thrombocytopenia., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare no conflicts of interest., (Copyright © 2024 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

This case report describes 2 dogs, an Appenzeller Mountain dog and an Irish Wolfhound, with angioleiomyoma within the nasal cavity. Endoscopic surgical resection resulted in cure in both dogs. Macroscopically and on diagnostic imaging, tumor masses may appear malignant because of local turbinate destruction. This highlights the importance of histological examination before any recommendations are made to owners because tumors of the nasal cavity may be benign and surgery curative., Competing Interests: The authors confirm that they do not have any conflict of interest., (Thieme. All rights reserved.)

Thyroid follicular tumours may take up iodide via the sodium-iodide symporter. Knowledge of iodide uptake could then allow treatment with I-131 in dogs with high-risk tumours. The objective of this study was to determine the relationship between clinically detectable iodide uptake (as determined by scintigraphy and/or thyroxine concentrations) and sodium iodide symporter immunohistochemical labelling on histologically fixed thyroid tumours. Nineteen dogs were identified who were diagnosed with thyroid carcinoma and underwent surgery from November 2017 to July 2021. All had recorded thyroid hormone concentrations and were hyperthyroid and/or underwent preoperative nuclear imaging using planar scintigraphy (technetium-99m or I-123), or I-124 PET-CT. All dogs subsequently underwent surgery to remove the thyroid mass. Twenty-two tumours were submitted for histopathologic analysis immediately following surgery, which confirmed a diagnosis of thyroid carcinoma for each tumour. Images and/or thyroid hormone concentrations were reviewed for the included cases, and tumours were sorted into an avid/functional group (group 1) and a non-avid/functional group (group 2). The tumour tissues were re-examined histologically using sodium iodide symporter (NIS) immunohistochemistry (IHC). Group 1 contained 15 avid/functional tumours. Twelve of these tumours had membranous NIS IHC labelling. Group 2 contained 7 non-avid tumours. One of these tumours had membranous NIS IHC labelling. This resulted in an overall sensitivity and specificity for identification of avid/functional tumours with membranous NIS of 80.0% and 85.7%, respectively. NIS IHC may predict ion trapping in canine follicular thyroid tumours. Further studies using iodide-based imaging are warranted to better determine the clinical utility of this diagnostic modality., (© 2024 John Wiley & Sons Ltd.)

Background: Otitis is characterised by inflammation of one or more of the structures of the ear. At present, to confirm or exclude otitis media (OM), it is most often necessary to perform a computed tomography (CT) scan or magnetic resonance imaging. Inflammation is an immune defence response found in many conditions that can be detected and tracked by measuring biological markers of inflammation as the Canine C-reactive protein (CRP)., Objectives: The objective of this study was to determine whether CRP measurement is useful as an adjunctive diagnostic tool in dogs with otitis and whether elevated concentrations correlated with disease severity/presence of OM., Animals: Twenty-four client-owned dogs were recruited over 1 year., Materials and Methods: The dogs were divided into three groups: chronic or recurrent otitis externa (CO), otitis media (OM) and H (healthy). The dogs with otitis underwent a CT scan of the head, measurement of the plasma CRP concentration and evaluation of a 0-3 Otitis Index Score 3 (OTIS3 score)., Results: No dog (0%) in group H had an increased CRP value, compared to 20% in the CO group (one of five dogs) and 23% in the OM group (3 of 13 dogs). Plasma CRP concentrations show a statistically significant positive relationship with the OTIS3 score (p = 0.04)., Conclusion and Clinical Relevance: Plasma CRP concentration is not reliable as a discriminatory tool in cases of otitis, although there is a trend for elevation in cases with more severe disease. However, a larger study may provide a statistically more reliable correlation between the severity of OM and CRP concentrations., (© 2024 ESVD and ACVD.)

A 6-year-old 21.5 kg castrated male Siberian Husky was presented for acute onset of lethargy, vomiting, hemorrhagic diarrhea, and inappetence. Physical examination revealed marked discomfort upon abdominal palpation and 5%-7% dehydration. The CBC and biochemical profile revealed changes consistent with mild to moderate inflammation, dehydration, and gastrointestinal (GI) disease. Despite aggressive gastrointestinal support, anorexia persisted, and an upper GI endoscopy was performed in conjunction with esophagostomy tube placement. Endoscopy revealed abnormal gastric mucosa characterized by moderately well-demarcated areas of blue-black discoloration. Impression smears of a gastric biopsy revealed abundant extracellular yeasts with morphology most consistent with Candida spp. and frequent extracellular cocci. Similar yeast and bacteria, in lower numbers, were observed on cytologic analysis of a direct smear of the rectal mucosa. A rectal swab submitted for fungal culture yielded pure growth of fungal yeasts identified as Diutina (formerly Candida) rugosa by matrix-assisted laser desorption-ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry. The dog's clinical signs improved with fluconazole, and he was discharged. Follow-up fungal culture of a rectal swab showed no growth of D. rugosa. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first case report that describes the clinical, hematologic, cytologic, and gross findings of enteric colonization by D. rugosa in a dog., (© 2024 The Authors. Veterinary Clinical Pathology published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American Society for Veterinary Clinical Pathology.)

Anaplasma phagocytophilum, Anaplasma platys and Ehrlichia canis, responsible of diseases in dogs, are tick-borne pathogens with a proven or potential zoonotic role that have shown increasing prevalence worldwide. The aims of this retrospective study were to assess the frequency of Anaplasma spp. and Ehrlichia spp. exposure in dogs tested in a veterinary teaching hospital in Italy over a 9-year period, to compare the performance of the diagnostic tests used, to evaluate correlations with clinical data, and to genetically analyse the identified bacteria. During the study period, 1322 dogs tested by at least one of the rapid immunoenzymatic test, indirect immunofluorescent antibody test or end-point PCR assay for Anaplasmataceae detection were included. Dogs were tested if they had clinical signs or clinicopathological alteration or risk factors related to infection, and if they were potential blood-donor animals. Ninety-four of 1322 (7.1%) dogs tested positive for at least one pathogen: 53 (4.3%) for A. phagocytophilum, one (0.1%) for A. platys and 63 (4.6%) for E. canis. The number of dogs tested increased and the positivity rate progressively declined over the years. Comparison of tests showed a near-perfect agreement between serological tests and a poor agreement between PCR and indirect assays. A breed predisposition has been highlighted for A. phagocytophilum infection in hunting breed dogs and for E. canis infection in mixed breed dogs. Phylogeny confirmed potential zoonotic implications for A. phagocytophilum and showed no correlation of the identified bacteria with the geographical origin. Our study provides new insights into possible risk factors in dogs and evidenced discordant results between different tests, suggesting that a combination of serological and molecular assays is preferable for a correct diagnosis., (© 2024. The Author(s).)

Objective: To describe the presentation, diagnosis, and treatment of 4 cases of splenic torsion with associated spherocytosis., Animals: 4 client-owned dogs with spherocytosis and splenic torsion., Clinical Presentation: Each dog presented with nonspecific clinical signs, and 3 out of 4 dogs were anemic on presentation., Results: The diagnosis of splenic torsion was made with abdominal ultrasound or CT and confirmed during exploratory laparotomy. Spherocytosis was described as occasional (patient 1), rare (patient 2), and low number (patients 3 and 4). Two dogs survived to hospital discharge, and 2 dogs died following cardiorespiratory arrest., Clinical Relevance: Spherocytosis has not previously been reported in cases of splenic torsion, and identification of spherocytes on blood film evaluation warrants further investigation. The cause of spherocytosis in splenic torsion remains unknown but may be associated with microangiopathic fragmentation injury.

Background: This study aimed to investigate the possible presence of maladaptive pain in the thoracic limbs of dogs with elbow osteoarthritis (OA) using an electronic von Frey aesthesiometer (eVFA)., Methods: Twenty-eight client- and staff-owned dogs (OA, n = 14; controls, n = 14) were enrolled in the study. Every dog underwent a full orthopaedic examination, and then five von Frey measurements were obtained from each carpal pad of each dog. A maximum test threshold of 400 g was set and approved by an ethics committee., Results: eVFA thresholds were significantly lower (p < 0.001) in dogs with OA (median 248 g, range 128-369 g) than in control dogs (median 390 g, range 371-400 g). In the OA group, the sensory threshold was significantly lower (p = 0.048) in the more severely affected limb than the less severely affected limb., Limitation: The low maximum threshold required for ethical approval may influence the variability in the control group., Conclusions: Dogs with elbow OA had significantly lower sensory thresholds than control dogs, which is compatible with the presence of maladaptive pain, potentially due to central sensitisation. Further research is required to evaluate the potential use of the eVFA for monitoring clinical progression and treatment response in dogs with elbow OA., (© 2024 The Authors. Veterinary Record published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of British Veterinary Association.)

Objective: To measure interobserver agreement for 4 functional tasks and their summed geriatric functional score (GFS) and correlate tasks and GFS with client-specific outcome measurements (CSOMs): Canine Brief Pain Inventory (CBPI) pain severity, CBPI pain interference, and Liverpool Osteoarthritis in Dogs., Animals: 89 geriatric dogs were recruited between April and September 2023 from staff, friends, and clients of the Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine with a median age of 11.0 years and weight of 26.4 kg., Methods: Dogs underwent 4 sequential functional tests: timed up and go (TUG), cavallettis, figure 8s, and down to stands. Two observers independently scored each dog. The GFS was calculated based on the summed scores of the individual tests. Additional information collected included signalment, weight, measurements reflecting the comorbidities of aging (body condition score and muscle condition score), and CSOMs., Results: Strong interrater agreement was found for all functional tests. The TUG in seconds (sTUG) and figure 8s demonstrated significant (P < .05) moderate to strong correlations to all CSOMs. The GFS showed similar significant correlations with all CSOMs except CBPI pain severity; however, when correlating individual tests to CSOMs, only figure 8s and TUG were significantly contributing to GFS results. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis defined highly functional dogs as those completing the sTUG in under 3.83 seconds. The sTUG represented the best test for geriatric function given it was objective, reliable, correlated well to CSOMs, and could help identify highly functioning dogs., Clinical Relevance: The sTUG appears to be the first practical and reliable functional test of canine geriatric mobility.

Objective: To provide a video tutorial detailing how to perform "blind" and ultrasound-guided abdominocentesis for diagnostic and therapeutic guidance, and to provide a brief demonstration of intra-abdominal pressure measurement (IAP)., Animals: Any cat or dog with suspicion of free abdominal effusion or patients requiring measurement of IAP., Methods: Abdominocentesis should be performed when there is high suspicion for peritoneal effusion based on physical exam and/or diagnostic imaging. The 4-quadrant tap uses 20-gauge or larger needles placed blindly in ≥ 1 of the 4 quadrants of the abdomen to collect abdominal fluid. In contrast, ultrasound allows visualization of fluid in the abdomen prior to percutaneous insertion of a needle and syringe to collect fluid. Regardless of collection technique, fluid should have immediate cytologic analysis and later can be submitted for biochemical parameters, additional cellular analysis by a pathologist, and culture and sensitivity (in rare cases if indicated). Intravesicular bladder pressure measurement using a manometer-urinary catheter system approximates the IAP when there is concern for organ hypoperfusion and compartment syndrome., Results: Abdominocentesis can be performed with and without the use of ultrasound guidance. Intravesicular bladder pressure measurement is used to diagnose and trend IAP values before and after treatments are performed., Clinical Relevance: Abdominocentesis is a simple and safe technique that all small animal clinicians should be comfortable performing. Effusion sampling can guide further diagnostics and treatments. Measurement of IAP is simple and requires no specialized equipment.

Background: Canine atopic dermatitis (CAD) is a common genetically predisposed, inflammatory, and pruritic skin disorder that affects dogs globally. To date, there are no specific biomarkers available to diagnose CAD, and the current diagnosis is based on a combination of criteria including patient history, clinical signs, and exclusion of other relevant differential diagnoses., Methods and Results: We examined the gene expression of phosphodiesterase 4D (PDE4D) in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs), as well as miR-203 and miR-483 in plasma, in three groups: healthy dogs, CAD dogs, and other inflammatory pruritic skin diseases (OIPSD) such as pemphigus foliaceus, scabies, cutaneous lymphoma, and dermatophytosis. Our results showed that PDE4D gene expression in the CAD group is statistically higher compared to those in the healthy and OIPSD groups, suggesting PDE4D may be a specific marker for CAD. Nevertheless, no correlation was found between PDE4D gene expression levels and the lesion severity gauged by CAD severity index-4 (CADESI-4). We also showed that miR-203 is a generic marker for clinical dermatitis and differentiates both CAD and OIPSD inflammatory conditions from healthy controls., Conclusions: We show that PDE4D is a potential marker to differentiate CAD from non-atopic healthy and OIPSD while miR-203 may be a potential marker for general dermatologic inflammation. Future study of PDE4D and miR-203 on a larger scale is warranted., (© 2024. The Author(s).)

Visceral leishmaniasis is a deadly infectious disease and is one of the world's major neglected health problems. Because the symptoms of infection are similar to other endemic diseases, accurate diagnosis is crucial for appropriate treatment. Definitive diagnosis using splenic or bone marrow aspirates is highly invasive, and so, serological assays are preferred, including the direct agglutination test (DAT) or rK39 strip test. These tests, however, are either difficult to perform in the field (DAT) or lack specificity in some endemic regions (rK39), making the development of new tests a research priority. The availability of Leishmania spp. genomes presents an opportunity to identify new diagnostic targets. Here, we use genome data and a mammalian protein expression system to create a panel of 93 proteins consisting of the extracellular ectodomains of the Leishmania donovani cell surface and secreted proteins. We use these panel and sera from murine experimental infection models and natural human and canine infections to identify new candidates for serological diagnosis. We observed a concordance between the most immunoreactive antigens in different host species and transmission settings. The antigen encoded by the LdBPK&#95;323600.1 gene can diagnose Leishmania infections with high sensitivity and specificity in patient cohorts from different endemic regions including Bangladesh and Ethiopia. In longitudinal sampling of treated patients, we observed reductions in immunoreactivity to LdBPK&#95;323600.1 suggesting it could be used to diagnose treatment success. In summary, we have identified new antigens that could contribute to improved serological diagnostic tests to help control the impact of this deadly tropical infectious disease., Importance: Visceral leishmaniasis is fatal if left untreated with patients often displaying mild and non-specific symptoms during the early stages of infection making accurate diagnosis important. Current methods for diagnosis require highly trained medical staff to perform highly invasive biopsies of the liver or bone marrow which pose risks to the patient. Less invasive molecular tests are available but can suffer from regional variations in their ability to accurately diagnose an infection. To identify new diagnostic markers of visceral leishmaniasis, we produced and tested a panel of 93 proteins identified from the genome of the parasite responsible for this disease. We found that the pattern of host antibody reactivity to these proteins was broadly consistent across naturally acquired infections in both human patients and dogs, as well as experimental rodent infections. We identified a new protein called LdBPK&#95;323600.1 that could accurately diagnose visceral leishmaniasis infections in humans., Competing Interests: The authors declare no conflict of interest.

Background: Ophthalmoscopy is a valuable tool in clinical practice. We report the use of a novel smartphone-based handheld device for visualisation and photo-documentation of the ocular fundus in veterinary medicine., Methods: Selected veterinary patients of a referral ophthalmology service were included if one or both eyes had clear ocular media, allowing for examination of the fundus. Following pharmacological mydriasis, fundic images were obtained with a handheld fundus camera (Volk VistaView). For comparison, the fundus of a subset of animals was also imaged with a veterinary-specific fundus camera (Optomed Smartscope VET2)., Results: The large field of view achieved by the Volk VistaView allowed for rapid and thorough observation of the ocular fundus in animals, providing a tool to visualise and record common pathologies of the posterior segment. Captured fundic images were sometimes overexposed, with the tapetal fundus artificially appearing hyperreflective when using the Volk VistaView camera, a finding that was less frequent when activating a 'veterinary mode' that reduced the sensitivity of the camera's sensor. The Volk VistaView compared well with the Optomed Smartscope VET2., Limitation: The main study limitation was the small sample size., Conclusions: The Volk VistaView camera was easy to use and provided good-quality fundic images in veterinary patients with healthy or diseased eyes, offering a wide field of view that was ideal for screening purposes., (© 2024 The Authors. Veterinary Record published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of British Veterinary Association.)

Objective: To describe a dog with suspected cerebral salt wasting syndrome (CSWS) secondary to traumatic brain injury (TBI)., Case Summary: A 2-month-old intact male Chihuahua-American Pitbull Terrier mix weighing 1.94 kg presented to a veterinary teaching emergency room after suffering bite wound-penetrating trauma to the head. Treatment was initiated with hyperosmotic agents, fluid resuscitation, and analgesia. The dog's neurologic dysfunction warranted hospitalization and continuous monitoring. Within 24 hours, the dog developed hyponatremia (133 mmol/L compared to 143 mmol/L on presentation [reference interval 142-149 mmol/L]). As the dog had concurrent tachycardia, increase in urine sodium concentration, polyuria, and weight loss, a diagnosis of cerebral salt wasting was suspected. A 2% hypertonic saline constant rate infusion was administered for volume replacement, and the patient showed improvement in clinical signs and blood sodium concentration. The dog was discharged on Day 5. Recheck examination showed significant neurologic improvement with sodium just below the low end of the reference range (141 mmol/L [reference interval 142-149 mmol/L])., New or Unique Information Provided: This is the first description of suspected CSWS in veterinary medicine. Hyponatremia is a common finding in critically ill neurologic people, including those with TBI, and is typically associated with either syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone or CSWS. As treatment recommendations for syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone and CSWS are diametrically opposed, identifying the presence of hyponatremia and distinguishing between these 2 clinical entities is critical for improving patient care for those with TBI. This case highlights the characteristics and clinical progression regarding the diagnosis and management of suspected CSWS., (© Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care Society 2024.)

Objective: The objective of the study was to describe clinical and histologic characteristics of eyelid (LMCT) and conjunctival (CMCT) mast cell tumors in dogs and cats presented to a referral clinic in Germany., Animal Studied: Medical records were reviewed to identify dogs and cats diagnosed with LMCTs or CMCTs between 2006 and 2020., Results: LMCT were diagnosed in 31 patients and were cutaneous (n = 28; 20 dogs and 8 cats) or subcutaneous (three dogs). Five cases involved the mucocutaneous junction (four dogs, one cat). CMCTs occurred only in dogs (n = 3). At the time of presentation two of the four canine LMCT cases involving the mucocutaneous junction had metastasized to a mandibular lymph node. When applying the Kiupel system, both these cases were categorized as high grade. 85.7% (18/21) of the canine (19 cutaneous and 2 subcutaneous) LMCT and all CMCT cases were categorized as Kiupel low grade. No local recurrences occurred in all LMCT cases in which clean surgical margins were obtained (n = 18, mean surgical margin width: dogs 9.4 mm, cats 3.8 mm). Two cats (2/4) and four dogs (4/7) with questionable or incomplete surgical margins experienced local recurrences (mean time to recurrence of 180 and 637 days in dogs and cats, respectively)., Conclusion: Recurrence of low-grade LMCTs and CMCTs following excision with clean margins is rare. Tumors involving the mucocutaneous junction may be of higher grade and prone to lymphatic metastasis., (© 2023 American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists.)

Canine strongyloidosis by Strongyloides stercoralis is a parasitic disease emerging in Europe, which represents both a veterinary clinical issue and a public health challenge because of the zoonotic potential. The disease, not yet frequent in Europe, could induce severe clinical signs in dogs; thus, an early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are desirable. The aim of the present work is to retrospectively investigate the clinical and paraclinical findings in sick dogs naturally infected by S. stercoralis, with particular attention to ultrasound (US) changes at the gastrointestinal level. Twelve dogs were included in the study. The diagnosis was made by means of larval morphological identification on faecal samples and PCR. Most dogs presented with gastrointestinal signs; diarrhea and weight loss were the most common presenting complaint. Only one dog showed respiratory signs, associated to a parasitic cutaneous nodule. Hypoproteinaemia, anaemia, leucocytosis and an increase in alpha2-globulin fraction at serum protein electrophoresis were common (>50%) but not constant findings. The most reported US picture was a fluid-filled, distended, atonic small intestine mostly associated with altered wall layering, while the wall thickness commonly associated with chronic enteritis was only rarely reported. These changes, associated with other clinical and paraclinical alterations, could increase the suspicion of canine strongyloidosis and may direct clinicians to include strongyloidosis in the differential diagnosis of dogs with diarrhea. The histological examination at the intestinal level, available in five dogs, revealed the presence of parasites from the full-thickness biopsy, but not from the endoscopic biopsy. The critical points of diagnosis in clinical practice are also discussed., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2024 The Author(s). Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Objective: To determine if emergency and critical care residents can identify moderate to severe precapillary pulmonary hypertension on cardiologist-obtained cineloops using a pulmonary hypertension score (PHS) and report the interobserver variability of the PHS., Design: Multicenter, retrospective, case-control study from 2017 to 2021., Setting: Private referral center and veterinary teaching hospital., Animals: One hundred and thirty-five client-owned dogs that underwent diagnostic echocardiography., Interventions: None., Measurements and Main Results: Medical records of dogs with stage B1 myxomatous mitral valve disease (MMVD) and dogs diagnosed with precapillary pulmonary hypertension (PCPH) via echocardiograms were reviewed. Dogs were categorized by a cardiologist into 5 groups (normal, B1 MMVD, mild, moderate, and severe PCPH) based on Doppler pulmonary pressure gradients and right heart morphology. Cineloops from each case were subjectively evaluated by emergency and critical care residents for the presence of right atrial and ventricular enlargement, right ventricular hypertrophy, interventricular septal flattening, and pulmonary artery and trunk enlargement to form a composite pulmonary hypertension score out of 8 (PHS8). When available, signs of peritoneal effusion and distention of the caudal vena cava were subjectively assessed to generate a pulmonary hypertension score out of 10 (PHS10). There was excellent discrimination of moderate to severe PCPH versus grouped absent to mild PCPH using PHS8 (area under the receiver operator curve [AUC] [95% confidence interval, CI] = 0.90 [0.84-0.95], P < 0.0001) and PHS10 (AUC [95% CI] = 0.89 [0.81-0.97], P < 0.0001). PHS8 ≥3 was 64% sensitive and 98% specific for moderate to severe PCPH (positive likelihood ratio [LR+] 32, negative likelihood ration [LR-] 0.37). PHS10 ≥ 3.3 was 64% sensitive and 92% specific for moderate to severe PCPH (LR+ 8, LR- 0.39). Interobserver agreement was good to excellent (intraclass correlation coefficient [ICC] = 0.74 [95% CI: 0.66-0.80], n = 135)., Conclusions: Residents identified moderate to severe PCPH in dogs using PHS on cineloops previously obtained by a cardiologist. The interrater agreement was good to excellent with limited training. Prospective studies to determine if residents can obtain diagnostic images for PHS are warranted., (© Veterinary Emergency and Critical Care Society 2024.)

Background: It is unknown if serum concentrations of cobalamin, folate, canine pancreatic lipase immunoreactivity (cPLI), and canine trypsin-like immunoreactivity (cTLI) obtained postprandially are equivalent to measurements obtained after withholding food in dogs with suspected gastrointestinal disease., Hypothesis/objectives: Measurements of serum concentrations of cobalamin, folate, cPLI, and cTLI postprandially will be equivalent to measurements after 12 hours of withholding food in dogs with signs of chronic gastrointestinal disease. Changes observed will not alter clinical interpretation., Animals: 51 client-owned dogs with signs of gastrointestinal disease., Methods: Prospective single arm clinical trial. Serum concentrations of cobalamin, folate, cPLI and cTLI 2, 4, and 8 hours postprandially were compared by equivalence testing to values after withholding food for 12 hours (baseline)., Results: Mean serum cobalamin concentrations 2 hours (498.1 ± 213.1 ng/L; P = 0.024) and 4 hours (501.9 ± 207.4 ng/L; P = 0.008) postprandial were equivalent to baseline (517.3 ± 211.5 ng/L). Mean serum cTLI 2 hours (31.3 ± 14 μg/L; P < 0.001) and 4 hours (29.6 ± 13.1 μg/L; P = 0.027) postprandial were equivalent to baseline (31.1 ± 15 μg/L). Mean serum folate concentration 2 hours postprandial (15 ± 7.7 μg/L) was equivalent to baseline (13.7 ± 8.3 μg/L; P < 0.001). Equivalence could not be assessed for cPLI due to results below the lower limit of quantification. Feeding altered the clinical interpretation in 27% (cobalamin), 35% (folate), 20% (cTLI), and 12% (cPLI) of dogs., Conclusions and Clinical Importance: The clinical interpretation for a substantial number of samples changed after feeding, therefore withholding food before sample collection is prudent., (© 2024 The Authors. Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine.)

Background: Sinus node dysfunction because of abnormal impulse generation or sinoatrial conduction block causes bradycardia that can be difficult to differentiate from high parasympathetic/low sympathetic modulation (HP/LSM)., Hypothesis: Beat-to-beat relationships of sinus node dysfunction are quantifiably distinguishable by Poincaré plots, machine learning, and 3-dimensional density grid analysis. Moreover, computer modeling establishes sinoatrial conduction block as a mechanism., Animals: Three groups of dogs were studied with a diagnosis of: (1) balanced autonomic modulation (n = 26), (2) HP/LSM (n = 26), and (3) sinus node dysfunction (n = 21)., Methods: Heart rate parameters and Poincaré plot data were determined [median (25%-75%)]. Recordings were randomly assigned to training or testing. Supervised machine learning of the training data was evaluated with the testing data. The computer model included impulse rate, exit block probability, and HP/LSM., Results: Confusion matrices illustrated the effectiveness in diagnosing by both machine learning and Poincaré density grid. Sinus pauses >2 s differentiated (P < .0001) HP/LSM (2340; 583-3947 s) from sinus node dysfunction (8503; 7078-10 050 s), but average heart rate did not. The shortest linear intervals were longer with sinus node dysfunction (315; 278-323 ms) vs HP/LSM (260; 251-292 ms; P = .008), but the longest linear intervals were shorter with sinus node dysfunction (620; 565-698 ms) vs HP/LSM (843; 799-888 ms; P < .0001)., Conclusions: Number and duration of pauses, not heart rate, differentiated sinus node dysfunction from HP/LSM. Machine learning and Poincaré density grid can accurately identify sinus node dysfunction. Computer modeling supports sinoatrial conduction block as a mechanism of sinus node dysfunction., (© 2024 The Authors. Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine.)

Soft tissue sarcoma (STS) is a relatively common tumor in dogs. However, very few canine STS cell lines are available. This study aimed to establish a new cell line, STS-YU1, derived from a recurrence of myxosarcoma in an 11-year-old mixed-breed dog. We examined STS-YU1 for in vitro cell proliferation, migration, anticancer drug sensitivity, transcriptome analysis using next-generation sequencing (RNA-seq), and in vivo tumorigenicity in mice and compared it with previously established STS cell lines, MUMA-G and A72. The cell proliferation and migration of STS-YU1 were higher than MUMA-G although MUMA-G only exhibited tumorigenicity in mice. STS-YU1 showed dose-dependent cytotoxicity to anticancer drugs, but with weak effects. RNA-seq analysis revealed the molecular phenotype of STS-YU1 was different from that of a previously reported cell line, A72. Hence, the use of STS-YU1 would help in efficient drug screening against canine STS in vitro., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare no conflicts of interest., (Copyright © 2024 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Objectives: Clinical presentation and outcomes of dogs with tonsillar foreign bodies are not described in the literature. The objective of this case series is to describe the presence, clinical manifestations, endoscopic findings and outcomes of foreign bodies in the palatine tonsillar fossa of dogs., Materials and Methods: Medical records of dogs in which tonsillar fossa foreign bodies were removed by endoscopy between 2020 and 2023 at a referral centre were reviewed. Dogs were included if complete medical records were available., Results: Seven dogs were included. Among all clinical signs reported, acute onset of throat clearing occurred in all dogs. Palatine tonsil enlargement and protrusion from the tonsillar fossa were observed in four of seven dogs. Foreign bodies were removed under endoscopic guidance in all dogs; a vegetal foreign body was found in all but one dog (6/7). Complete resolution of clinical signs was reported in the five dogs for which follow-up information was available., Clinical Significance: The tonsillar fossa is a rare but possible location for foreign bodies in dogs and should be explored even in the absence of macroscopic lesions of the tonsils, since some dogs could have a normal palatine tonsil appearance. Acute throat clearing should raise the suspicion of tonsillar fossa foreign bodies. The prognosis appears good after removal., (© 2024 British Small Animal Veterinary Association.)

Linguoverted mandibular canine teeth (LMC) are a common cause of class 1 malocclusion, which may result in a traumatic occlusion. When deciduous LMC are diagnosed, extraction is commonly performed to alleviate traumatic occlusion. This retrospective study was designed to observe the outcome of the permanent dentition in dogs with a class 1 malocclusion receiving treatment for deciduous LMC. Medical records from a veterinary dental referral hospital were used to identify patients that underwent extraction of deciduous LMC's prior to the eruption of the permanent mandibular canine teeth. The permanent occlusion was then evaluated once the permanent mandibular canine teeth were erupting. Of the 28 dogs identified and treated for deciduous LMC's, 78.6% (22/28) had a normal permanent occlusion. The 6 patients identified with permanent LMC's were all diagnosed when the patients were between 20 and 29 weeks of age. Of these 6 patients, 5 received gingivectomy and gingivoplasty treatment to correct the permanent LMC. Treatment was declined by the pet owner of the sixth patient. Overall, the majority of dogs in this study with a class 1 malocclusion and deciduous LMC's treated with extractions prior to the eruption of the permanent mandibular canine teeth had a normal permanent occlusion., Competing Interests: Declaration of Conflicting InterestsThe authors declared no potential conflicts of interest with respect to the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article.

Background: Thromboelastometry (TEM) provides a comprehensive overview of the entire coagulation process and has not been evaluated in heatstroke-induced coagulopathies in dogs., Objectives: To determine the diagnostic and prognostic utility of TEM in dogs with heatstroke., Animals: Forty-two client-owned dogs with heatstroke., Methods: Prospective observational study. Blood samples for intrinsic and extrinsic TEM (INTEM and EXTEM, respectively) were collected at presentation and every 12 to 24 hours for 48 hours. Coagulation phenotype (hypo-, normo-, or hypercoagulable) was defined based on TEM area under the 1st derivative curve (AUC)., Results: Case fatality rate was 31%. Median TEM variables associated with death (P < .05 for all) included longer INTEM clotting time, lower AUC at presentation and at 12 to 24 hours postpresentation (PP), lower INTEM alpha angle, maximum clot firmness, and maximum lysis (ML) at 12 to 24 hours PP, and lower EXTEM ML at 12 to 24 hours PP. Most dogs were normo-coagulable on presentation (66% and 63% on EXTEM and INTEM, respectively), but hypo-coagulable 12 to 24 PP (63% for both EXTEM and INTEM). A hypo-coagulable INTEM phenotype was more frequent at presentation and 12 to 24 PP among nonsurvivors compared to survivors (55% vs 15% and 100% vs 50%, P = .045 and .026, respectively). AKI was more frequent (P = .015) in dogs with hypo-coagulable INTEM tracings at 12 to 24 hours. Disseminated intravascular coagulation was more frequent (P < .05) in dogs with a hypo-coagulable INTEM phenotype and in nonsurvivors at all timepoints., Conclusions and Clinical Relevance: Hypocoagulability, based on INTEM AUC, is predictive of worse prognosis and occurrence of secondary complications., (© 2024 The Authors. Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine.)

A 9 yr old male miniature poodle presented with acute diarrhea, vomiting, and a distended abdomen. A large and firm mass was palpated in the caudal abdomen. Radiography showed a large soft-tissue mass in the mid ventral abdomen. The mass was mildly contrast-enhancing and in contact with the right cranial aspect of the bladder on computed tomography. The mass was heterogeneous with minimal blood flow on Doppler examination. Surgery confirmed its origin of the urinary bladder, and it was diagnosed leiomyosarcoma on pathology. This is the first report of extraluminal leiomyosarcoma of the bladder wall with imaging characteristics using various modalities., (© 2024 by American Animal Hospital Association.)

Congenital malformations can affect almost 7% of canine newborns. The increase of commercial dog breeding and inbreeding used to maintain the striking characteristics of each breed, the appearance of malformations has become increasingly common, especially in brachycephalic dogs. The causes are diverse, and include genetic, nutritional, iatrogenic, and infectious factors, often making it difficult to establish a cause-consequence relationship. The high mortality associated with malformations comes not only from the fact that some are incompatible with life, but also because even if many undergo surgical treatment or correction, they require specific management, monitoring, and clinical treatment for an indefinite period of time. The most common malformations such as cleft lip and palate, hydrocephalus and anasarca have been studied for a long time, and it is currently known that brachycephalic dogs have a greater predisposition, however, for other less common conditions as gastroschisis and hypospadias, there is only a few case reports. The appearance of congenital defects in a litter leads to financial losses for the breeder, emotional losses for the owner and the veterinarian and harms the well-being of that individual. For this reason, the aim of this review article is to gather relevant information on the characteristics, diagnosis, and management of the main malformations in puppies. It is essential that the veterinarian is prepared to diagnose and treat these conditions, reducing negative impacts on animals and owners., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2024 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

A 5-year-old female spayed Dogue de Bordeaux was referred for concerns of an abdominal mass and peritoneal effusion. Abdominal radiographs identified a mid-ventral abdominal soft tissue opaque mass containing a radiopaque marker consistent with a gossypiboma. Contrast-enhanced abdominal CT identified two whirl signs associated with the abdominal gossypiboma. Exploratory laparotomy confirmed an omental torsion with encapsulated gossypiboma and concurrent incidental torsion of the remnant of the right broad ligament. Based on a literature review, omental torsions are an unreported complication of gossypibomas in canids., (© 2024 American College of Veterinary Radiology.)

Objective: To determine whether 3 mm cup biopsy forceps (CBF) provide equivalent diagnostic samples to 5 mm CBF for histopathologic diagnosis, bacterial culture, and copper quantification., Study Design: Clinical prospective study., Animals: Ten client-owned dogs, presenting for laparoscopic liver biopsy (LLB)., Methods: Dogs underwent LLB, and paired samples were collected using 3 and 5 mm CBF. Portal triad and hepatic lobule counts, crush and fragmentation artifacts, copper concentration, bacterial culture results, and agreement on histopathologic diagnosis were compared., Results: Both CBF sizes allowed for easy sample collection and resulted in minimal hemorrhage. An average of 12.13 (confidence limit (CL): 9.4-14.9) and 17.84 (CL: 15.1-20.6) portal triads were obtained using a 3 and 5 mm CBF, respectively (p = .0003). A portal triad count of 11 or more was achieved in 73.3% of the 3 mm and 93.3% of the 5 mm samples. Gwets AC1 coefficient showed a high level of agreement (0.8) for overall histopathologic diagnosis (p < .0001). The 3 mm CBF crush scores were higher (median of the differences: -1; range: -1 to 1) (p = .035). There was no difference in fragmentation scores (p = .935)., Conclusion: The 3 mm CBF yielded smaller samples in terms of size and portal triad count compared with the 5 mm CBF. However, the portal triad count was sufficient in a majority of samples and histologic agreement with the 5 mm CBF was excellent., Clinical Significance: In dogs, a 3 mm CBF yields adequate samples for histopathologic interpretation, copper quantification, and bacterial culture., (© 2023 The Authors. Veterinary Surgery published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of American College of Veterinary Surgeons.)

There is currently sparse information on the possible effect of long-term storage of serum specimens for the retrospective serodiagnosis of canine monocytic ehrlichiosis (CME). The aim of this study was to assess the agreement between the original serologic outcome and the results of a repeat indirect fluorescent antibody (IFA) assay for the detection of IgG antibodies against E. canis. A secondary aim was to compare the diagnostic performance of two commercially available point-of-care (POC) immunochromatographic (IC) assays. Archived serum samples originally tested as positive (n=66) or negative (n=19) for E. canis IgG antibodies and kept frozen at -20°C for a median of 22 years, were retrospectively examined by IFA and by two POC IC assays. Cohen's Kappa coefficient (0.748, p < 0.0001), indicated a substantial agreement between the original and repeat serologic testing results. An almost identical high sensitivity and moderate specificity were established for the two POC IC assays. Canine serum specimens on long-term storage may still be of value for seroepidemiologic surveys investigating the exposure to E. canis., Competing Interests: Declaration of Competing Interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2024 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)