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BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE Intratumoral administration of chemotherapeutic agents is a treatment modality that has proven efficacious in reducing the recurrence of tumours and increases specificity of treatment while minimizing systemic side effects. Direct intratumoral injection of malignant airway obstruction has potential therapeutic benefits but tissue drug concentrations and side-effect profiles are poorly understood. METHODS Bronchial wall injection of generic paclitaxel (PTX) (102 injections of 0.05, 0.5, 1.5 or 2.5 mg/mL in 10 healthy pigs), saline (14 injections in 2 healthy pigs) or Abraxane (ABX) (24 injections of 0.5 mg/mL in 4 healthy pigs) was performed with a microneedle infusion catheter. Local histopathology, plasma and tissue PTX concentrations were evaluated at 7, 20 or 28 days post-injection. RESULTS Injection of generic PTX directly into the bronchial wall at doses up to 1.5 mg/mL only caused minimal tissue injury. Dose-limiting tissue reaction was observed at 2.5 mg/mL. Plasma PTX was detectable for up to 5 days but not at 28 days, with area under the curve (AUC)(0-5d) 20- to 50-fold lower than the AUC(0-∞) of 6300 ng h/mL for the approved intravenous dose. At 7 and 28 days post-injection, bronchial PTX tissue concentrations were above a 10-nmol/L cancer therapeutic level. PTX was not found in peripheral tissues. Similar results were observed between ABX and generic PTX. CONCLUSION Results of these studies confirm the administration of PTX directly into the bronchial wall is safe and feasible. PTX was detectable in plasma for

Radiofrequency renal denervation (RDN) is under investigation for treatment of hypertension with variable success. We developed preclinical models to examine the dependence of ablation biomarkers on RDN treatment parameters and anatomical variables. 129 porcine renal arteries were denervated with an irrigated RF catheter with multiple helically arrayed electrodes. Nerve effects and ablation geometries at 7d were characterized histomorphometrically and correlated with associated renal norepinephrine (NEPI) levels. NEPI exhibited a threshold dependence on the percentage of affected nerves (%AN) across the range of treatment durations (30–60sec) and power set-points (6–20W). For 15W/30sec treatments, NEPI reduction and %AN tracked with number of electrode treatments, confirming additive effects of helically staggered ablations. Threshold effects were only attained when ≥four electrodes were powered. Histomorphometry and computational modeling both illustrated that RF treatments directed at large neighboring veins resulted in sub-average ablation areas, and therefore contributed suboptimally to efficacy. Account for measured nerve distribution patterns and the annular geometry of the artery revealed that, regardless of treatment variables, total ablation area and circumferential coverage were the prime determinants of RDN efficacy, with increased efficacy at smaller diameters. SUMMARY: Large animal experiments supported by computational and statistical models that account for arterial microanatomy and nerve distribution explain the dependence of RDN efficacy on procedural parameters, e.g. number of electrode treatments, and anatomic parameters, e.g. arterial diameter and the proximity of veins to ablation sites.

OBJECTIVE To evaluate and compare surface and cross-sectional structure as well as localized electrochemical corrosion and ion release for cast stainless steel (SS) tibia plateau leveling osteotomy (TPLO) plates retrieved from dogs with and without osteosarcoma (OSA) and to compare these findings with similar variables for forged SS TPLO plates retrieved from dogs. SAMPLE 47 TPLO plates explanted from 45 client-owned dogs (22 cast plates from dogs with OSA, 22 cast plates from dogs without OSA, and 3 forged plates from dogs without OSA). PROCEDURES Histologic evaluations of tissue samples collected from implant sites at the time of plate retrieval were performed to confirm implant site tumor status of each dog. Surfaces and metallographic cross sections of retrieved plates were examined, and the microcell technique was used to obtain local electrochemical corrosion and ion release measurements. RESULTS Findings indicated that all cast SS plates demonstrated high spatial variability of their electrochemical surface properties and inhomogeneous superficial and cross-sectional composition, compared with forged plates. Greater metal ion release was observed in cast plates than in forged plates and in cast plates from dogs with OSA than in cast or forged from dogs without OSA. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Results suggested that accumulation of metal ions from implants could be a trigger for neoplastic transformation in neighboring cells. Metal ion release caused by corrosion of implants that do not comply with recommended standards of the American Society for Testing and Materials International or the International Organization for Standardization could potentially place patients at increased risk of tumor development.

Intratumoral administration of chemotherapeutic agents is a treatment modality that has proven efficacious in reducing the recurrence of tumours and increases specificity of treatment while minimizing systemic side effects. Direct intratumoral injection of malignant airway obstruction has potential therapeutic benefits but tissue drug concentrations and side-effect profiles are poorly understood.Bronchial wall injection of generic paclitaxel (PTX) (102 injections of 0.05, 0.5, 1.5 or 2.5 mg/mL in 10 healthy pigs), saline (14 injections in 2 healthy pigs) or Abraxane (ABX) (24 injections of 0.5 mg/mL in 4 healthy pigs) was performed with a microneedle infusion catheter. Local histopathology, plasma and tissue PTX concentrations were evaluated at 7, 20 or 28 days post-injection.Injection of generic PTX directly into the bronchial wall at doses up to 1.5 mg/mL only caused minimal tissue injury. Dose-limiting tissue reaction was observed at 2.5 mg/mL. Plasma PTX was detectable for up to 5 days but not at 28 days, with area under the curve (AUC)Results of these studies confirm the administration of PTX directly into the bronchial wall is safe and feasible. PTX was detectable in plasma for7 days but tissue concentrations remained therapeutic throughout the follow-up period.

Eosinophilic enteritis (EE) in cats is poorly characterized. The aim of the current study was to retrospectively evaluate the clinical and ultrasonographic findings in cats with histologic evidence of eosinophilic inflammation on gastrointestinal biopsy. Twenty-five cats with tissue eosinophilia on surgical (10) or endoscopic (15) biopsy of the gastrointestinal tract, having an abdominal ultrasound performed within 48 h of biopsy acquisition, were enrolled. History, clinical presentation, clinical pathology and abdominal ultrasound findings were reviewed. Intestinal biopsies were evaluated by a single pathologist and separated into two groups based on the degree of eosinophilic infiltrate: mild (10 eosinophils/HPF, 14/25 cats). The former were considered primary lymphoplasmacytic or lymphocytic inflammatory bowel disease (LPE) with subtle eosinophilic infiltrates, and the latter to have EE. Signalment, history and clinical signs were similar in all cats. Only cats with EE (6/14) had palpably thickened intestines. The only distinguishing clinicopathological feature of cats with EE was the presence of peripheral eosinophilia (6/14). On ultrasound, when compared with cats with LPE, cats with EE had a greater mean jejunal wall thickness (3.34 mm ± 0.72 mm vs 4.07 mm ± 0.58 mm, respectively) and an increased incidence of thickening of the muscularis layer (1/11 and 11/14, respectively). In conclusion, ultrasonographic evidence of a prominent intestinal muscularis layer, palpably thickened intestines and peripheral eosinophilia can serve as biomarkers for the presence of EE in cats with chronic intestinal signs.

Thymic epithelial tumour (TET) histologic subclassification has not been well described in the veterinary literature as it has in humans. The objective of this study was to identify and describe TET subtypes in dogs and to determine the utility of immunohistochemistry (IHC) in differentiating these subtypes. Samples were reviewed and classified according to a modified World Health Organization (WHO) criteria for human tumours of thymic origin. Signallment, presenting signs, treatment and survival data was collected from medical records. Histologic review confirmed the same subtypes as described in humans. Presence of high stage disease, pleomorphism, mitotic figures and capsular invasion was more common in atypical thymomas and thymic carcinomas than in thymomas. IHC was performed for GLUT-1, CD5, CD117 and CK8/18; however, this was not useful in classifying the tumours.

A 14-year-old female alpaca ( Vicugna pacos) was presented with a 1-week history of lethargy and anorexia and a 2-day history of recumbency, trembling, and hypothermia. There were no significant gross findings on postmortem examination. Hematoxylin and eosin–stained sections of brain demonstrated the presence of intracytoplasmic crystalline eosinophilic rod-shaped inclusions, mainly in the hippocampal pyramidal cells. Immunohistochemical staining for synuclein, tau protein, ubiquitin, and smooth muscle actin was negative. All inclusions were positive with phosphotungstic acid hematoxylin. Ultrastructurally, the inclusions were multilamellar and filamentous with longitudinal herringbone pattern and cross-sectional latticelike structure. The combination of hematoxylin and eosin appearance, special stains, immunostaining, and ultrastructural findings was consistent with Hirano-like bodies. The Hirano-like bodies were highly unlikely to be the cause of the neurologic signs experienced by this alpaca. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first report of spontaneous cerebral Hirano-like bodies in an alpaca.

The safety and diagnostic value of combined splenic fine-needle aspiration (FNA) and needle core biopsy (NCB) is unknown. Forty-one dogs with splenic lesions were studied prospectively. Safety was assessed in 38 dogs and no complications were encountered. Initially, clinical and anatomic pathologists reviewed each FNA and NCB sample, respectively, without knowledge of the other's results. Diagnoses were categorized as neoplastic, benign, inflammatory, normal, or nondiagnostic. The level of agreement between sampling methods was categorized as complete, partial, disagreement, or not available. Test correlation was performed in 40 dogs. Nondiagnostic results occurred in 5/40 NCB (12.5%) and no FNA samples. Neoplasia was diagnosed in 17/40 dogs (42.5%), benign changes in 20/40 dogs (50%), inflammatory disorders in 0/40 dogs, and normal 2/40 dogs (5%). One of the 40 dogs (2.5%) had a diagnosis that was equivocal for neoplasia on both tests and therefore was not categorized. Of the 35 dogs that had diagnostic samples, cytopathologic and histopathologic diagnoses agreed completely in 18/35 dogs (51.4%), partially in 3/35 dogs (8.6%), and were in disagreement in 14/35 dogs (40.0%). Pathologists collaboratively reviewed diagnoses that were in disagreement or partial agreement and altered their individual diagnoses in 6/17 dogs (35.3%) to be within partial or complete agreement, respectively. Percutaneous FNA and NCB can be performed safely in dogs with sonographic splenic changes. Results suggest that adding NCB to FNA provides complementary information in dogs with suspected splenic neoplasia. This combined protocol may improve detection of splenic neoplasia and provide neoplastic subclassification.

Benign gastric polyps are uncommon in dogs and most are discovered incidentally. Polyps protruding into the pyloric antrum can cause gastric outflow obstruction. Clinical and ultrasonographic findings in seven dogs with histologically confirmed benign mucosal gastric polyps were reviewed. Sonographic findings such as shape, size, echogenicity, location, evidence of gastric wall thickening, wall layering, and size of regional lymph nodes were recorded. Five sessile and two pedunculated masses of different sizes (range 7-60 mm) and echogenicities were found. They primarily arose from the mucosal layer and protruded into the gastric lumen. Only one dog had a large inhomogeneous mass with a poorly visualized gastric wall layering. The polyps were all single, and were located in the pyloric antrum in six out of seven dogs. Although the ultrasonographic appearance allowed a presumptive diagnosis of mucosal gastric polyp, the final diagnosis was determined from histopathologic examination.

Objective— To report treatment of a complex odontoma of the mandible by partial mandibulectomy and immediate surgical reconstruction using bridging plate fixation with a synthetic graft. Study Design— Clinical case report. Animals— A 4-year-old male castrated cocker spaniel. Methods— Immediate reconstruction of the left mandible (5 cm gap) was performed after complete excision of a complex odontoma. Locking plate fixation was applied immediately before complete excision of the mass. Fixation was removed, then after partial mandibulectomy, including all abnormal tissue, restored to achieve occlusion. The resulting mandibular defect was filled with recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein-2 (rhBMP-2) delivered in an absorbable collagen sponge containing hydroxyapatite/tricalcium phosphate granules (compression resistant matrix [CRM]). Results— New bone growth was evident radiographically and on palpation at 3 months. Bony remodeling was evident during follow-up examinations up to 26 months. Bone collected by biopsy at the graft site at 7 months had robust new bone formation and evidence of continued remodeling. Only minor complications (repeated intraoral plate exposure) were encountered postoperatively and were easily resolved. Conclusions— An osteoinductive factor (rhBMP-2/CRM) was successfully used as a graft substitute in immediate reconstruction of a large mandibular defect. Clinical Relevance— Immediate reconstruction of large mandibular defects with osteoinductive materials as a graft substitute may be a viable alternative to partial mandibular resection or radiation therapy for benign odontogenic tumors in dogs.

Three dogs with seizures were diagnosed with multiple intracranial meningiomas. Two of the three dogs were golden retrievers, and ages ranged from 9 to 11 years. Treatment consisted of surgery and radiation (n=2) or chemotherapy (n=1). In all three cases, the masses were two distinct tumors as determined by imaging, surgery, or necropsy. In two dogs, the meningiomas had the same histological pattern, while in one dog the histological subtypes were different.

In this retrospective study, the medical records of 23 dogs with the sonographic feature of small intestinal hyperechoic mucosal striations and an endoscopic or surgical intestinal biopsy were reviewed. Histopathologic lacteal dilation was present in 96% of dogs with mucosal striations. Sonographic findings associated with mucosal striations included: mild jejunal wall thickening (96%), mild duodenal wall thickening (78%), mucosal speckles (70%), and abdominal effusion (87%). The mucosal striations were diffuse (70%) or multifocal (30%) and did not cause loss of wall layering, except in one dog with a severe mural lipogranuloma. Mesenteric lymphadenopathy was identified in 9% of dogs. Thirteen dogs with endoscopic biopsies had mild to moderate villus lacteal dilation and the nine dogs with surgical biopsies had moderate to severe dilation. Inflammatory infiltrates were mild (61%) or moderate (30%) with variable numbers and combinations of cells, including eosinophils (65%), plasma cells (61%), lymphocytes (57%), and neutrophils (30%); one dog had disseminated villus histiocytic sarcoma. The biochemistry changes and clinical signs were consistent with protein-losing enteropathy in 78% of dogs. Hyperechoic mucosal striations in dogs are associated with lacteal dilation and are frequently associated with mucosal inflammation and protein losing enteropathy.

A 4-month-old West Highland White Terrier was evaluated for dyspnea. Severe cardiac silhouette enlargement was present radiographically. Severe right ventricular hypertrophy and dilation with a dilated pulmonary trunk and a stenosis of the right pulmonary artery were diagnosed via echocardiography. Additional areas of peripheral pulmonary artery stenosis were diagnosed with nonselective computed tomography (CT) angiography and selective fluoroscopic angiography. Balloon dilation therapy was unsuccessful and the imaging findings were confirmed at necropsy.

SummaryBilateral transverse mid-shaft tibial osteotomies, with a 4-mm gap, were performed in purpose-bred research dogs and stabilized using a Securos™ Type 2 external skeletal fixator (ESF). Full (100%) axial dynamization of one randomly selected ESF in each dog was performed at 31 days postoperatively. Caudo-cranial radiographs were obtained at weekly intervals, which were qualitatively and quantitatively evaluated (densitometry and ImageJ analysis). The dogs were euthanatized 13 weeks postoperatively, at which time dual energy x-ray absorptiometry (DEXA), peripheral quantitative computed tomography (pQCT), mechanical testing in torsion, and qualitative histological analysis were performed. A two-tailed paired Student's t-test was performed for statistical analysis of all parameters of interest, with significance set at p

An umbrella cockatoo (Cacatua alba) of unknown age was examined because of a 6-month history of gradually worsening ataxia and intention tremors. Results of diagnostic tests were unremarkable, and the bird was euthanized after no improvement with empirical therapy. At necropsy, a large, poorly-defined mass was found in the cerebellum. The mass was identified as medulloblastoma, a type of primitive neuroectodermal tumor.

Neoplasia was once thought to be rare in reptiles. However, recent studies illustrate that neoplasia is not uncommon. Hematopoeitic tumors appear to be one of the most common types of neoplasia in reptiles. Three cases of disseminated lymphoma in three lizards (two savannah monitors, Varanus exanthematicus, one green iguana, Iguana iguana), presented to three separate institutions. The clinical presentation, significant clinical pathology abnormalities, necropsy and histopathologic findings in those cases are outlined in this report. Immunohistochemistry was performed on all three cases and determined that the neoplastic cells in Case 2 were possibly of T-cell origin. Cellular origin could not be determined by immunohistochemistry for the other two cases. A summary of 11 previously reported cases of hematopoietic tumors in lizards and their cellular characteristics is provided. The etiology of lymphoma in lizards remains unknown and warrants further investigation.

G(M1)-gangliosidosis is a rare progressive neurodegenerative disorder due to an autosomal recessively inherited deficiency of lysosomal β-galactosidase. We have identified seven American black bears (Ursus americanus) found in the Northeast United States suffering from G(M1)-gangliosidosis. This report describes the clinical features, brain MRI, and morphologic, biochemical and molecular genetic findings in the affected bears. Brain lipids were compared with those in the brain of a G(M1)-mouse. The bears presented at ages 10-14 months in poor clinical condition, lethargic, tremulous and ataxic. They continued to decline and were humanely euthanized. The T(2)-weighted MR images of the brain of one bear disclosed white matter hyperintensity. Morphological studies of the brain from five of the bears revealed enlarged neurons with foamy cytoplasm containing granules. Axonal spheroids were present in white matter. Electron microscopic examination revealed lamellated membrane structures within neurons. Cytoplasmic vacuoles were found in the liver, kidneys and chondrocytes and foamy macrophages within the lungs. Acid β-galactosidase activity in cultured skin fibroblasts was only 1-2% of control values. In the brain, ganglioside-bound sialic acid was increased more than 2-fold with G(M1)-ganglioside predominating. G(A1) content was also increased whereas cerebrosides and sulfatides were markedly decreased. The distribution of gangliosides was similar to that in the G(M1)-mouse brain, but the loss of myelin lipids was greater in the brain of the affected bear than in the brain of the G(M1) mouse. Isolated full-length cDNA of the black bear GLB1 gene revealed 86% homology to its human counterpart in nucleotide sequence and 82% in amino acid sequence. GLB1 cDNA from liver tissue of an affected bear contained a homozygous recessive T(1042) to C transition inducing a Tyr348 to His mutation (Y348H) within a highly conserved region of the GLB1 gene. The coincidence of several black bears with G(M1)-gangliosidosis in the same geographic area suggests increased frequency of a founder mutation in this animal population.

An 11-year-old, neutered, male Golden Retriever cross dog was euthanized following a history of recurrent pericardial effusions. At necropsy, blood-tinged pericardial and intrathoracic effusions were seen along with numerous firm to hard plaque-like masses that studded the epicardial, pericardial, mediastinal, and costal pleural surfaces. Within the right thorax, the lesions coalesced into a large mass that occupied most of the cavity. Histologically, the masses were composed of solid sheets and papillary aggregates of medium-sized polygonal cells that contained abundant vacuolated to clear cytoplasm. Some of the cytoplasmic vacuoles stained positive with oil red O. The stroma contained metaplastic trabeculae of woven and lamellar bone. Immunohistochemically, the neoplastic cells expressed vimentin, pancytokeratin, and S-100 protein. Transmission electron microscopy corroborated the presence of intracytoplasmic vacuoles and demonstrated prominent intercellular junctional complexes and apically located microvilli. These findings are consistent with a lipid-rich variant of mesothelioma. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first report of a lipid-rich mesothelioma in a dog.

Four cats with feline gastrointestinal eosinophilic sclerosing fibroplasia (FGESF) are described. Clinical signs included decreased appetite, weight loss, vomiting and diarrhea. Bloodwork abnormalities included mild neutrophilia (n = 2) and hyperglobulinemia with concurrent hyperproteinemia (n = 2). Ultrasonographically, a total of five solitary masses with mural thickening and loss of layering were identified in the stomach, duodenum, jejunum and colon. In one cat a second, separate lesion was diagnosed 3 weeks following surgical resection of one mass. Histopathologically, lesions were characterized by collagen trabeculae and mixed inflammatory cell infiltrates, predominantly eosinophils. Multiple areas of necrosis were also noted, which contained bacteria in 2/4 cats. In two cats, changes consistent with FGESF were also noted in the liver. All cats had surgical resection of their lesions. Two cats are still living at time of publication (43 and 24 months post-surgery). FGESF should be considered as a differential for intestinal masses in cats.

The safety and diagnostic value of combined splenic fine-needle aspiration (FNA) and needle core biopsy (NCB) is unknown. Forty-one dogs with splenic lesions were studied prospectively. Safety was assessed in 38 dogs and no complications were encountered. Initially, clinical and anatomic pathologists reviewed each FNA and NCB sample, respectively, without knowledge of the other's results. Diagnoses were categorized as neoplastic, benign, inflammatory, normal, or nondiagnostic. The level of agreement between sampling methods was categorized as complete, partial, disagreement, or not available. Test correlation was performed in 40 dogs. Nondiagnostic results occurred in 5/40 NCB (12.5%) and no FNA samples. Neoplasia was diagnosed in 17/40 dogs (42.5%), benign changes in 20/40 dogs (50%), inflammatory disorders in 0/40 dogs, and normal 2/40 dogs (5%). One of the 40 dogs (2.5%) had a diagnosis that was equivocal for neoplasia on both tests and therefore was not categorized. Of the 35 dogs that had diagnostic samples, cytopathologic and histopathologic diagnoses agreed completely in 18/35 dogs (51.4%), partially in 3/35 dogs (8.6%), and were in disagreement in 14/35 dogs (40.0%). Pathologists collaboratively reviewed diagnoses that were in disagreement or partial agreement and altered their individual diagnoses in 6/17 dogs (35.3%) to be within partial or complete agreement, respectively. Percutaneous FNA and NCB can be performed safely in dogs with sonographic splenic changes. Results suggest that adding NCB to FNA provides complementary information in dogs with suspected splenic neoplasia. This combined protocol may improve detection of splenic neoplasia and provide neoplastic subclassification.

The medical records of 11 cats with full-thickness intestinal biopsies and histopathologic confirmation of segmental mucosal fibrosis were reviewed. All cats received an abdominal ultrasonographic evaluation. The sonographic feature of a small intestinal mucosal hyperechoic band paralleling the submucosa was present in all cats. Other intestinal sonographic findings included wall thickening, and altered wall layering (increased mucosal echogenicity, thickened submucosa, and/or muscularis layer). None of the cats had complete loss of wall stratification. All cats had clinical signs related to the gastrointestinal (GI) tract at the time of presentation. Three of the 11 cats had palpably thickened small intestinal loops, 3/11 abdominal pain, and 2/11 abdominal fluid. Histopathologically, mucosal fibrosis was associated with inflammatory cell infiltrates in all cats. In those cats with histopathologic evidence of mural fibrosis, all cats had a visible hyperechoic band through several intestinal segments. We speculate that the hyperechoic mucosal band represents the zone of mucosal fibrosis. Independently and prospectively, we reviewed the clinical presentation of 35 cats having this visible hyperechoic mucosal band on ultrasound. Twenty-four of these 35 cats had clinical signs related to the digestive system at the time of record. Our study suggests that the hyperechoic mucosal band represents fibrosis, and in presence of concurrent GI signs, further diagnostic tests may be warranted.

Objective – To describe a severe case of bacterial sepsis and disseminated candidiasis in a previously healthy dog. Case Summary – Fungal sepsis was identified in a 2-year-old dog following intestinal dehiscence 4 days after abdominal surgery. Septic peritonitis was identified at admission and evidence of dehiscence at the previous enterotomy site was found during an exploratory laparotomy. Both gram-positive cocci and Candida albicans were cultured from the abdominal cavity. Candida sp. was also subsequently cultured from a central venous catheter. Euthanasia was performed due to failure to respond to therapy. Fungal organisms, morphologically consistent with Candida spp., were found in the lungs and kidney on postmortem histopathologic examination indicating disseminated candidiasis. New or Unique Information Provided – Candida peritonitis is a well-recognized entity in humans and contributes to morbidity and mortality in critically ill patients. Abdominal surgery, intestinal perforation, presence of central venous catheters, and administration of broad-spectrum antibiotics are all considered to be suspected risk factors. This report describes the first known case of systemic candidiasis occurring secondary to Candida peritonitis and bacterial sepsis in a critically ill dog.

An 8-year-old female spayed domestic shorthair cat was presented for several months of weight loss, decreased appetite, and 2 bilateral, ventral cervical masses. Initial cytologic samples were interpreted as reactive lymphoid hyperplasia. Evaluation of subsequent mass aspirates revealed small numbers of large binucleated and multinucleated cells resembling Reed-Sternberg cells admixed with more numerous small and intermediate-sized lymphocytes. In histopathologic sections, the normal architecture of the lymph node was largely effaced by a slightly heterogeneous mass composed of round cells arranged in densely cellular sheets with a minor population of large (25-microm diameter) mononuclear cells and a few very large (30-40-microm diameter) binucleated or multinucleated cells interpreted as Reed-Sternberg-like cells. Immunohistochemically, the large neoplastic (Reed-Sternberg-like) cells were negative for CD18, CD3, CD20, and CD79a while the background population consisted of about 70% T cells and 30% B cells. This pattern of immunohistochemical staining along with cytologic and histopathologic findings supported a diagnosis of Hodgkin's-like lymphoma, specifically, the lymphocyte-rich subtype. Hodgkin's-like lymphoma has been reported previously in cats and should be suspected when Reed-Sternberg-like cells are observed in cytologic preparations of lymph node aspirates. Histopathology and immunohistochemistry are necessary for a definitive diagnosis.

Background: Portal vein thrombosis (PVT) in cats is sparsely reported. Purpose of Study: To evaluate the clinical signs and diseases associated with PVT in cats. Animals: 6 client-owned cats. Methods: Medical records for cats with a portal vein thrombus diagnosed on abdominal ultrasound or at necropsy were reviewed. Signalment, historical data, underlying disorders, clinical findings, clinicopathologic and histopathologic data, diagnostic imaging findings, treatment, and outcome were recorded. Results: All 6 cats identified with PVT also had hepatic disease. Evidence of a congenital portosystemic shunt was present in 3/6 cats. Two cats had primary or metastatic hepatic neoplasia. One cat had acute cholangitis, acute pancreatitis, and locally extensive acute centrilobular hepatic necrosis. Two cats were suspected to have acute thrombi and 4 cats had chronic thrombi. Conclusion and Clinical Significance: PVT might be an important concurrent finding in cats with hepatic disease.

Adult dogs with degenerative myelopathy (DM) have progressive ataxia and paresis of the pelvic limbs, leading to paraplegia and euthanasia. Although most commonly reported in German Shepherd dogs, high disease prevalence exists in other breeds.Our aim was the clinical and histopathologic characterization of familial degenerative myelopathy (FDM) in Pembroke Welsh Corgi (PWC) dogs.Twenty-one PWCs were prospectively studied from initial diagnosis until euthanasia.Neurologic examination, blood tests, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis, electrodiagnostic testing, and spinal imaging were performed. Concentrations of 8-iso-prostaglandin F2alpha (8-isoprostane) were measured in CSF. Routine histochemistry was used for neuropathology. Deoxyribonucleic acid and pedigrees were collected from 110 dogs.Median duration of clinical signs before euthanasia was 19 months. Median age at euthanasia was 13 years. All dogs were nonambulatory paraparetic or paraplegic, and 15 dogs had thoracic limb weakness at euthanasia. Electrodiagnostic testing and spinal imaging were consistent with noncompressive myelopathy. No significant difference was detected in 8-isoprostane concentrations between normal and FDM-affected dogs. Axonal and myelin degeneration of the spinal cord was most severe in the dorsal portion of the lateral funiculus. Pedigree analysis suggested a familial disease.Clinical progression of FDM in PWC dogs was similar to that observed in other breeds but characterized by a longer duration. Spinal cord pathology predominates as noninflammatory axonal degeneration. Oxidative stress injury associated with 8-isoprostane production is not involved in the pathogenesis of FDM-affected PWC dogs. A familial disease is suspected.

To report treatment of a complex odontoma of the mandible by partial mandibulectomy and immediate surgical reconstruction using bridging plate fixation with a synthetic graft.Clinical case report.A 4-year-old male castrated cocker spaniel.Immediate reconstruction of the left mandible (5 cm gap) was performed after complete excision of a complex odontoma. Locking plate fixation was applied immediately before complete excision of the mass. Fixation was removed, then after partial mandibulectomy, including all abnormal tissue, restored to achieve occlusion. The resulting mandibular defect was filled with recombinant human bone morphogenetic protein-2 (rhBMP-2) delivered in an absorbable collagen sponge containing hydroxyapatite/tricalcium phosphate granules (compression resistant matrix [CRM]).New bone growth was evident radiographically and on palpation at 3 months. Bony remodeling was evident during follow-up examinations up to 26 months. Bone collected by biopsy at the graft site at 7 months had robust new bone formation and evidence of continued remodeling. Only minor complications (repeated intraoral plate exposure) were encountered postoperatively and were easily resolved.An osteoinductive factor (rhBMP-2/CRM) was successfully used as a graft substitute in immediate reconstruction of a large mandibular defect.Immediate reconstruction of large mandibular defects with osteoinductive materials as a graft substitute may be a viable alternative to partial mandibular resection or radiation therapy for benign odontogenic tumors in dogs.

An increased incidence of chronic hepatitis has been reported in Labrador Retrievers.A breed associated hepatopathy occurs in Labrador Retrievers.Twenty-four client-owned Labrador Retrievers.Medical records of dogs with histopathologic confirmation of chronic hepatitis were retrospectively reviewed. A clinical score based on clinical signs and the results of biochemical tests was generated for each dog. Hepatic biopsy specimens were scored for disease activity, fibrosis, and copper accumulation.The median age was 9.3 years (range, 3.9-14.0 years). Clinical signs included inappetence, vomiting, lethargy, and weight loss. All dogs had increases in serum activity of one or more hepatobiliary enzyme. Hyperbilirubinemia and hypoalbuminemia were present in 45% and 21% of dogs, respectively. The median clinical score was 2.9, with a range of 0-8. The median histopathology activity and the fibrosis scores were 3.5 (range, 1-6) and 3.0 (range, 0-4), respectively. Rhodanine-positive copper staining was present in 15 of 17 biopsy specimens, with a median score of 2.0 (range, 0-3). Median survival was 374 days (range, 1-2645 days). A prolonged prothrombin time (P = .013) and thrombocytopenia (P = .041) were associated with survival2 months. The presence of anorexia (P = .049), hypoglobulinemia (P = .045), or prolonged partial thromboplastin time (P = .033) were associated with shorter overall survival times. The clinical score correlated with survival time (P = .030) and histopathologic staging (P = .049).A progressive hepatopathy in Labrador Retrievers in this study was marked by chronic inflammation, fibrosis, and copper accumulation. A clinical scoring system that correlates with survival time may be useful as a noninvasive method to predict prognosis.

Schistosomes are intravascular platyhelminth parasites that are exposed in the blood stream to host immunological effectors. Antibody-dependent cell-mediated cytotoxicity (ADCC) can act in vitro to kill the parasites, and this has been proposed as one important mechanism of antiworm immunity in vivo. In this study, we examined sections of adult Schistosoma mansoni in situ, within the vasculature of strains of mice that exhibit low (Balb/c) or high (CBA) pathology, and in the vasculature of infected chimpanzees, for evidence of cellular inflammation around the worms. In both mouse strains, we observe robust cellular inflammation around the parasite eggs in the intestines and liver tissue. However, we detect no overt cellular inflammation around the mature parasites in vivo. Likewise in the vasculature of infected chimpanzees, no immune cell accumulations are detected around adult schistosomes in situ. These data suggest that the parasites can promote a polar immune response that targets eggs (and assists the eggs to exit the host and continue the life cycle) but that does not effectively target the source of those eggs, namely, the adult worms.

Pancreatic neoplasia in cats is rare and associated with a poor prognosis, but pancreatic nodular hyperplasia is a common incidental finding. The purpose of this study was to describe radiographic and ultrasonographic findings in cats with pancreatic neoplasia or nodular hyperplasia. Fourteen cats (age 3-18 years) were diagnosed with malignant pancreatic tumors: carcinoma/adenocarcinoma (n = 11), lymphoma (n = 1), squamous cell carcinoma (n = 1), and lymphangiosarcoma (n = 1). The most common radiographic findings were an abdominal mass or mass effect (6/6) and lack of serosal margin detail (4/6). On ultrasound, the most common finding was a focal pancreatic mass or nodule, with a size range from 0.4 cm to more than 7.0 cm (8/14). Lymphadenopathy (7/14) and abdominal effusion (7/14) were frequently seen. Five cats (age 10-16 years) with adenomatous/nodular hyperplasia had an abdominal mass or mass effect as the most common radiographic finding (3/3). On ultrasound, all cats had multiple hypoechoic nodules between 0.3 and 1.0 cm associated with the pancreas. Other common findings were pancreatic thickening (2/5), lymphadenopathy (2/5), and abdominal effusion (2/5). The only imaging finding unique to malignant pancreatic tumors was the presence of a single pancreatic nodule or mass exceeding 2cm in at least one dimension (4/14). Although there was a tendency for neoplastic lesions to manifest as single larger lesions and for nodular hyperplasia to manifest as multiple smaller lesions, there was overlap of the imaging findings in both entities. Radiographs and ultrasound can complement but not replace cytology and histopathology in the diagnosis of feline pancreatic neoplasia.

Objective—To determine the material properties of Slocum TPLO plates and assess the soft tissue reaction adjacent to these plates in dogs that had undergone tibial plateau leveling osteotomy (TPLO). Sample Population—3 new TPLO plates, 8 retrieved TPLO plates, and 1 new Synthes dynamic compression plate. Procedures—Metallurgic analyses were performed. Tissue samples were obtained from areas adjacent to retrieved plates and submitted for histologic examination. Results—All of the TPLO plates had a 2-phase microstructure consisting of austenite and ferrite in various amounts. Residua, inclusions, and cavities were seen during microscopic examination of the plate surface. The major differences between new and retrieved TPLO plates were the presence of small gaps separating many inclusions from the surrounding matrix and the presence of various-sized pits on the surface of the retrieved plates. The dynamic compression plate had a nearly pure austenitic structure and was largely free from residua, inclusions, and cavities. Histologic examination of tissue samples obtained from areas adjacent to retrieved TPLO plates revealed intra- and extracellular particulate debris. Two types of particles (one consisting of chromium, nickel, molybdenum, and iron and the other consisting of aluminum and silicon) were seen. Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results determined that new and retrieved TPLO plates were manufactured from 316L stainless steel and produced by a casting process, but not all plates met specifications for chemical composition of cast surgical implants (American Society for Testing Materials standard F745); tissues surrounding retrieved plates had evidence of adverse reactions, probably as a result of plate corrosion.

Objective—To determine history, results of diagnostic testing, surgical findings, complications, and outcome for dogs with liver lobe torsion (LLT). Design—Retrospective case series. Animals—12 dogs (1 with 2 episodes). Procedure—Signalment, clinical signs, clinicopathologic findings, radiographic and ultrasonographic findings, surgical and histologic findings, complications, and hospitalization time were evaluated. Results—The most common clinical signs were nonspecific abnormalities (eg, vomiting, lethargy, and anorexia) of acute or chronic duration. All dogs were large-breed dogs (median body weight, 37.2 kg [82 lb]). Biochemical abnormalities included high alanine amino-transferase (n = 12) and aspartate aminotransferase (11) activities. Results of abdominal ultrasonography were supportive of the diagnosis in 5 of 8 cases. Affected lobes included the left medial lobe (n = 4), left lateral lobe (3), papillary process of the caudate lobe (2), caudate lobe (1), and right lateral lobe (1). Exploratory celiotomy and liver lobectomy were performed in 12 of 13 cases, and in 11 of those 12 cases, the dog survived. Conclusions and Clinical Relevance—Results suggest that development of nonspecific clinical signs of vomiting, lethargy, and anorexia in conjunction with high serum hepatic enzyme activities and mature neutrophilia in a medium-sized or large-breed dog should increase the index of suspicion for LLT. Abdominal ultrasonography with Doppler assessment may be useful in establishing the diagnosis. The long-term outcome for dogs that survive the hospitalization period is excellent.

The records of four dogs with cervical spinal cord meningiomas were retrospectively reviewed. Signalment, history, laboratory findings, neurological examination, and histopathological findings were evaluated. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was performed using a 1.0-T superconducting magnet and T2-weighted (W) and noncontrast and postcontrast T1-W spin echo pulse sequences. Meningiomas were located at the level of the second, third, and fifth cervical vertebrae and the C2-3 intervertebral space. All meningiomas appeared as focal masses that were hyperintense to the spinal cord on T2-W images and iso- to hypointense on the T1-W images. They could be identified as intradural and extramedullary in origin based on a broad-based dural margin seen on at least one of the imaging planes and a gradual expansion of the subarachnoid space cranial and caudal to the mass, best noted on the transverse and dorsal plane images. On dorsal plane T2-W images in three dogs, expansion of the subarachnoid space adjacent to the mass appeared similar to the myelographic "golf tee" sign. All meningiomas exhibited moderate, well-defined contrast enhancement with dural tails seen in three of the four dogs. One dog had extension into the intervertebral foramen along the nerve and ipsilateral atrophy of the muscles of the neck. By differentiating the meningiomas from intramedullary tumors and by clearly depicting the extent of the masses, MRI provided valuable information about treatment options and prognosis.

was determined from the analysis of arterial and mixed venous bloods. The arterial blood was obtained from the right brachial artery. The mixed venous blood was withdrawn from the right ventricle through a catheter introduced via the right jugular vein into the right ventricle under fluoroscopic control. Glass cannulae were tied in the central end of the right common carotid artery and the central end of the right femoral vein; these two cannulae were connected by a rubber or polyvinyl tube previously filled with isotonic sodium chloride solution and closed by a screw clamp. A similar communication was established between the central end of the right femoral artery and the central end of the left femoral vein. In 5 of the 10 experiments, a catheter connected to a water manometer was introduced via the left femoral vein into the inferior vena cava up to the level of the renal veins in order to measure the changes in venous pressure at this site. Before being anesthetized, the animals were given orally 0.14 to 0.29 grams of sodium chloride per kilogram of weight to insure adequate urinary excretion of sodium and chloride during the experiment. While the operative procedures were being carried out, priming doses of 1.5 grams of creatinine and 0.07 grams of sodium para-amino

In patients with chronic pulmonary emphysema which has led to anoxemia and hypercapnia it has been observed that: (1) The intravenous administration of 6 to 8 gm. of sodium salicylate over a period of approximately one hour lowers the arterial plasma pCO 2 , raises the arterial blood pH and increases the arterial blood oxygen saturation. (2) When inhalation of oxygen has led to aggravation of hypercapnia, intravenous administration of 6 to 8 gm. of sodium salicylate over a period of approximately one hour reduces the degree of hypercapnia. (3) The oral administration of 3 to 7 gm. of aspirin per day in divided doses over a period of a few days gives variable results. In some patients relatively low plasma salicylate levels reduce the hypercapnia, in others only rather high levels are effective, in still others even such high levels are ineffective. The therapeutic implications of these observations on the effect of salicylate in patients with chronic pulmonary emphysema, anoxemia and hypercapnia are pointed out but they must remain mere implications until more data are accumulated.

1. 1. Twelve of thirty-one unselected survivors of myocardial infarction had fasting values for serum cholesterol and/or lipid phosphorus above the range of normal. 2. 2. With the administration of inositol for an eight-week period, a fall occurred in the mean level of the measured serum lipids. 3. 3. The most significant drop occurred in those individuals who had control values in the hypercholesteremic range.