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A Merriam's Wild Turkey (Meleagris gallopavo merriami) with periocular swelling and periocular skin crusting in Pueblo County, Colorado, USA, was diagnosed with severe catarrhal and fibrinous sinusitis and conjunctivitis. A novel clade of Avibacterium was detected in the exudate from this bird. Although eight additional turkeys culled from the affected flock did not have clinical signs or gross lesions, histologically all had mild-to-moderate chronic sinusitis, and infraorbital cultures yielded the same novel clade of Avibacterium that was found in the symptomatic turkey. The presence of this Avibacterium species in the absence of significant disease in some birds suggested that other factors might have been involved in the development of severe sinusitis and conjunctivitis in the symptomatic Wild Turkey. Negative culture results from a distant flock of Wild Turkeys, acquired with similar methods to the affected flock, suggested that this novel species of Avibacterium was not widespread throughout Wild Turkeys in Colorado. more...

OBJECTIVE To estimate the prevalence of extended-spectrum cephalosporin-, carbapenem-, and fluoroquinolone-resistant bacteria of the family Enterobacteriaceae in the feces of hospitalized horses and on hospital surfaces. SAMPLE Fecal and environmental samples were collected from The Ohio State University Galbreath Equine Center (OSUGEC) and a private referral equine hospital in Kentucky (KYEH). Feces were sampled within 24 hours after hospital admission and after 48 hours and 3 to 7 days of hospitalization. PROCEDURES Fecal and environmental samples were enriched, and then selective media were inoculated to support growth of Enterobacteriaceae bacteria that expressed resistance phenotypes to extended-spectrum cephalosporins, carbapenems, and fluoroquinolones. RESULTS 358 fecal samples were obtained from 143 horses. More samples yielded growth of Enterobacteriaceae bacteria that expressed resistance phenotypes (AmpC β-lactamase, OR = 4.2; extended-spectrum beta-lactamase, OR = 3.2; and fluoroquinolone resistance, OR = 4.0) after 48 hours of hospitalization, versus within 24 hours of hospital admission. Horses hospitalized at KYEH were at greater odds of having fluoroquinolone-resistant bacteria (OR = 2.2). At OSUGEC, 82%, 64%, 0%, and 55% of 164 surfaces had Enterobacteriaceae bacteria with AmpC β-lactamase phenotype, extended-spectrum beta-lactamase phenotype, resistance to carbapenem, and resistance to fluoroquinolones, respectively; prevalences at KYEH were similarly distributed (52%, 32%, 1%, and 35% of 315 surfaces). CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Results indicated that antimicrobial-resistant Enterobacteriaceae may be isolated from the feces of hospitalized horses and from the hospital environment. Hospitalization may lead to increased fecal carriage of clinically important antimicrobial-resistance genes. more...

Widespread use of antimicrobials in human and veterinary medicine drives the emergence and dissemination of resistant bacteria in human, animal, and environmental reservoirs. The AVMA and FDA Center for Veterinary Medicine have both taken public positions emphasizing the importance of incorporating antimicrobial stewardship in veterinary clinical settings; however, a model for implementing a comprehensive antimicrobial stewardship program in veterinary practice is not readily available. In 2015, The Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine began developing a veterinary antimicrobial stewardship program modeled on existing programs in human health-care institutions and the 7 core elements of a successful hospital antimicrobial stewardship program, as defined by the CDC. The program includes comprehensive antimicrobial use guidelines, active environmental surveillance, and enhanced infection control procedures in The Ohio State University Veterinary Medical Center, along with routine monitoring and reporting of antimicrobial prescribing practices and antimicrobial susceptibility patterns of common pathogens isolated from patients and the hospital environment. Finally, programs have been developed to educate clinicians, staff, and students on antimicrobial resistance and appropriate antimicrobial prescribing practices. The antimicrobial stewardship program has been designed to help clinicians and students confidently make judicious antimicrobial use decisions and provide them with actionable steps that can help them act as strong stewards while providing the best care for their patients. This report describes our program and the process involved in developing it, with the intent that the program could serve as a potential model for other veterinary medical institutions. more...

Objective: In the fall of 2020, Colorado experienced the two largest wildfires in state history. The smoke blanketed the college town of Fort Collins, Colorado, the location of the Veterinary Teaching Hospital at Colorado State University (CSU-VTH). The objective for this cross-sectional observational study was to evaluate how these wildfires and the corresponding elevated air quality index (AQI)) was associated with infected corneal ulcerations in dogs when compared to the two previous years. Animals: Seventeen dogs were included in this study. Procedures: Medical records from dogs presented to the CSU-VTH ophthalmology service with infected corneal ulcerations in August, September, and October of 2020, 2019, and 2018 were evaluated. Only corneal ulcerations with growth on their microbial cultures were included in this study. Results: The study revealed a significant increase in prevalence of infected corneal ulcerations in dogs presented to the CSU-VTH during the three wildfire months of 2020 that is, 3.5% (9/255) when compared with the two previous years, 2019: 1.0% (4/383, p = 0.04), and 2018: 0.9% (4/457) (p =.01). The AQI (mean ± standard error) was also significantly elevated for dogs that presented with infected corneal ulcerations in 2020 (70.2 ± 5.8) compared with 2019 (19.7 ± 8.7) and 2018 (45.6 ± 8.7) (p more...

Objectives The aims of this study were to determine the side effect frequency and serum and urine drug concentrations of amoxicillin–clavulanic acid in cats with and without azotemic chronic kidney disease (azCKD). Methods Owners whose cats had been prescribed amoxicillin–clavulanic acid completed a survey regarding the occurrence and type of side effects, and whether treatment was altered as a result. Cats were defined as azCKD (serum creatinine concentration >2.0 mg/dl, urine specific gravity [USG] 1.035) that were receiving amoxicillin–clavulanic acid. Amoxicillin and clavulanic acid were measured with liquid chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry and compared between groups with a Mann–Whitney test. Correlation between serum creatinine and drug concentrations in urine and serum was determined using Spearman’s rank test. Results Sixty-one surveys were returned (11 azCKD cats and 50 without azCKD cats). No significant difference in the presence of side effects or type of side effects was seen between groups; however, significantly more azCKD cats had more than one side effect ( P = 0.02). More owners of azCKD cats reported that an alteration in treatment plan was necessitated by side effects (55% vs 12%; P = 0.008). Urine amoxicillin was significantly lower in cats with azCKD ( P = 0.01) and serum amoxicillin trended toward significance ( P = 0.07). Serum amoxicillin concentration was positively correlated with serum creatinine ( P = 0.02; r = 0.62) and urine amoxicillin concentration was negatively correlated with serum creatinine ( P = 0.01; r = –0.65). Conclusions and relevance The data suggest that cats with azCKD have altered pharmacokinetics of amoxicillin, which may contribute to an increased incidence of multiple side effects. more...

Objective To determine the incidence of bacteriuria at the time of presentation and as a result of indwelling urethral catheterization in naturally occurring feline urethral obstruction (UO). Design Prospective observational study. Setting University teaching hospital. Animals A population of 34 male cats with UO admitted for standard medical care. Interventions A presenting urine sample was obtained by cystocentesis (precatheterization). After catheterization (performed under strict aseptic technique), a urine sample was obtained through the urinary catheter every 24 hours, as well as just prior to catheter removal. Urine was applied to culture media within 30 minutes of collection or refrigerated immediately at 4°C for subsequent culture the following morning. Samples positive for growth (defined as > 104 colony forming units/mL) had bacterial identification and susceptibility testing performed. Measurements and main results All 34 cats enrolled had initial culture performed. Of these, 1 patient died and 2 were euthanized within 24 hours and therefore subsequent cultures were obtained. The remaining 31 cats had median catheterization time of 42 hours (range 20-110 hours). No urine cultures yielded growth at presentation (0/34). A total of 4 of 31 patients (13%) subsequently had bacterial cultures that yielded growth. In these cases, all yielded growth by the 24-hour time point, and all had the same organism identified on subsequent cultures. Identified bacteria included Streptococcus spp. (3) and Pasteurella spp. (1). Conclusions The male cats with UO in this study did not have bacteriuria at the time of presentation. The overall incidence of acquired bacteriuria was found to be 13% and could represent a transient bacterial population or true bacterial urinary tract infection. Based on these findings, empirical administration of antibiotics is not warranted in male cats with UO. more...

Nosocomial meticillin-resistant (MR) staphylococcal infections are of global concern. Veterinary dermatology exam room surfaces may be a reservoir given the commonness of staphylococcal pyoderma.First, efficacy of exam room surface decontamination using a quaternary ammonium compound was assessed after use of two different cleaning instruction protocols. Second, coagulase-positive staphylococcal (CoPS) colony counts were assessed after use of rooms by dogs with pyoderma, and then after cleaning and disinfection.In Part I, 10 room surfaces were tagged with a discreet fluorescent dye, Glo Germ, to assess the efficacy of surface cleaning between two Virex II 256-based cleaning protocols. In Part II, CoPS colonies were quantified via 3M Staph Express System. Ten standardised room surfaces were sampled after use by a dog with staphylococcal pyoderma, and immediately after a detailed cleaning and disinfection protocol.A total of 24 of 100 and 81 of 100 surfaces were completely cleaned by the general and detailed protocols, respectively. The mean number of surfaces adequately cleaned was higher with the detailed protocol (P = 0.003). The detailed protocol reduced CoPS colony counts of eight surfaces (P 0.01), and not chairs (P = 0.055). No CoPS were isolated from the exam table under a table mat.Detailed exam room cleaning and disinfection protocols are recommended to minimise contamination of veterinary exam room surfaces with staphylococci. The appropriate disinfection of chairs necessitates further study.Les infections nosocomiales à staphylocoques résistants à la méticilline (MR) sont une préoccupation mondiale. Les surfaces des salles d'examen de dermatologie vétérinaire peuvent être un réservoir étant donné la fréquence de pyodermite staphylococcique. HYPOTHÈSE/OBJECTIFS: Premièrement, l'efficacité de la décontamination de la surface de la salle d'examen à l'aide d'un composé d'ammonium quaternaire a été évaluée après l'utilisation de deux protocoles d'instructions de nettoyage différents. Deuxièmement, le nombre de colonies de staphylocoques coagulase positive (CoPS) a été évalué après utilisation des locaux par des chiens atteints de pyodermite, puis après nettoyage et désinfection. MATÉRIELS ET MÉTHODES: Dans la partie I, 10 surfaces de pièces ont été étiquetées avec un colorant fluorescent discret, Glo Germ, pour évaluer l'efficacité du nettoyage de surface entre deux protocoles de nettoyage à base de Virex II 256. Dans la partie II, les colonies de CoPS ont été quantifiées via le système 3M Staph Express. Dix surfaces de pièces standardisées ont été échantillonnées après utilisation par un chien atteint de pyodermite staphylococcique, et immédiatement après un protocole détaillé de nettoyage et de désinfection. RÉSULTATS: Au total, 24 surfaces sur 100 et 81 surfaces sur 100 ont été complètement nettoyées respectivement par les protocoles généraux et détaillés. Le nombre moyen de surfaces correctement nettoyées était plus élevé avec le protocole détaillé (P = 0,003). Le protocole détaillé a réduit le nombre de colonies de CoPS sur huit surfaces (P0,01), et non sur les chaises (P = 0,055). Aucun CoPS n'a été isolé de la table d'examen sous un tapis de table.Des protocoles détaillés de nettoyage et de désinfection de la salle d'examen sont recommandés pour minimiser la contamination des surfaces de la salle d'examen vétérinaire par les staphylocoques. La désinfection appropriée des chaises nécessite une étude plus approfondie.INTRODUCCIÓN: las infecciones nosocomiales por estafilococos resistentes a la meticilina (MR) son una preocupación a nivel mundial. Las superficies de las salas de examen de dermatología veterinaria pueden ser un reservorio dada la frecuencia de la pioderma estafilocócica. HIPÓTESIS/OBJETIVOS: en primer lugar, se evaluó la eficacia de la limpieza de la superficie de la sala de examen con un compuesto de amonio cuaternario después del uso de dos protocolos de instrucciones de limpieza diferentes. En segundo lugar, se evaluaron los recuentos de colonias de estafilococos coagulasa positivos (CoPS) después del uso de las habitaciones por perros con pioderma, y luego después de la limpieza y desinfección. MÉTODOS Y MATERIALES: en la Parte I, se etiquetaron 10 superficies de habitaciones con un tinte fluorescente discreto, Glo Germ, para evaluar la eficacia de la limpieza de superficies entre dos protocolos de limpieza basados en Virex II 256. En la Parte II, las colonias de CoPS se cuantificaron mediante 3M Staph Express System. Se tomaron muestras de diez superficies de la habitación estandarizadas después de su uso por un perro con pioderma estafilocócica, e inmediatamente después de un protocolo detallado de limpieza y desinfección. RESULTADOS: Un total de 24 de 100 y 81 de 100 superficies fueron completamente limpiadas por los protocolos general y detallado, respectivamente. El número medio de superficies limpiadas adecuadamente fue mayor con el protocolo detallado (P = 0,003). El protocolo detallado redujo el recuento de colonias CoPS de ocho superficies (P0.01), y no en las sillas (P = 0,055). No se aisló ningún CoPS de la mesa de exploración debajo del tapete. CONCLUSIONES Y RELEVANCIA CLÍNICA: se recomiendan protocolos detallados de limpieza y desinfección de las superficies en las salas de exámenes veterinarios para minimizar la contaminación de las superficies con estafilococos. La desinfección adecuada de las sillas requiere más estudios.Nosocomiale Infektionen mit Methicillin-resistenten (MR) Staphylokokken sind eine Sorge auf der ganzen Welt. Oberflächen in veterinärdermatologischen Untersuchungsräumen könnten in Anbetracht der Häufigkeit von Staphylokokken Pyodermie ein Reservoir darstellen.Zuerst wurde die Wirksamkeit der Oberflächendekontamination mittels quartärer Ammoniumverbindungen nach Einsatz zweier unterschiedlicher Reinigungsprotokolle untersucht. Als zweites wurden Koloniezahlen von Koagulase-positiven Staphylokokken (CoPS) erfasst, nachdem Hunde mit Pyodermien die Räume genutzt hatten, sowie nach deren Reinigung und Desinfektion.Im ersten Teil wurden 10 Oberflächen von Räumen mit einer diskreten fluoreszierenden Färbung (Glo Germ) markiert, um die Wirksamkeit der Oberflächenreinigung zwischen zwei Virex II 256-basierten Reinigungsprotokollen zu beurteilen. Im zweiten Teil wurden die CoPS Kolonien mittels 3M Staph Express System quantifiziert. Nachdem ein Hund mit Staphylokokken Pyodermie einen Raum benützt hatte, wurden von zehn standardisierten Raumoberflächen Proben genommen, sowie unmittelbar nach einer genauen Reinigung und einem Desinfektionsprotokoll.Insgesamt wurden 24 von 100 und 81 von 100 Oberflächen entweder mit dem allgemeinen oder mit dem detaillierten Protokoll komplett gereinigt. Die durchschnittliche Anzahl der Oberflächen, die ausreichend gereinigt waren, war größer beim detaillierten Protokoll (P = 0,003). Das detaillierte Protokoll reduzierte die CoPS Koloniezahlen auf acht Oberflächen (P0,01) und nicht auf Stühle (P = 0,055). Es wurden keine CoPS vom Untersuchungstisch unter der Tischmatte isoliert.Eine detaillierte Reinigung von Untersuchungsräumen sowie Desinfektionsprotokolle werden empfohlen, um die Kontaminierung der Oberflächen in veterinärmedizinischen Räumen mit Staphylokokken zu minimieren. Eine angemessene Desinfektion von Stühlen sollte durch weitere Studien untersucht werden.背景: メチシリン耐性ブドウ球菌の院内感染は世界的に懸念されている。ブドウ球菌性膿皮症が一般的であることから、獣医皮膚科診察室表面はレゼルボアである可能性がある。 仮説/目的: 本研究の目的は、第一に、第四級アンモニウム化合物を用いた診察室表面の除染の有効性を、2種類の洗浄指導プロトコルを使用した後に評価した。次に、コアグラーゼ陽性ブドウ球菌(CoPS)コロニー数を、膿皮症の犬が部屋を使用した後、洗浄・消毒した後に評価した。 材料と方法: パートI では、10 室の表面に目立たない蛍光染料 Glo Germ を塗布し、Virex II 256 を使用した 2 種類の洗浄プロトコル間で表面洗浄の効果を評価した。パート II では、3M Staph Express System を用いて CoPS コロニーを定量化した。ブドウ球菌性膿皮症を発症した犬が使用した後、詳細な洗浄・消毒プロトコルの直後に、標準化された10面の室内表面をサンプリングした。 結果: 一般的なプロトコルで100面中24面、詳細なプロトコルで100面中81面が完全に清浄化された。十分に洗浄された表面の平均数は、詳細プロトコルでより多かった(P = 0.003)。詳細プロトコルは，8面のCoPSコロニー数を減少させたが(P0.01)，椅子のコロニー数は減少しなかった(P = 0.055).テーブルマットの下の診察台からはCoPSは分離されなかった。 結論および臨床的意義: 動物用診察室表面のブドウ球菌汚染を最小限に抑えるため、診察室の清掃および消毒の詳細なプロトコルが推奨される。椅子の適切な消毒については、さらなる検討が必要である。.背景: 院内耐甲氧西林(MR)葡萄球菌感染是全球关注的问题。考虑到葡萄球菌性脓皮病的普遍性，很可能蓄积在兽医皮肤科检查室表面。 假设/目的: 首先，在使用两种不同的清洁指导方案后，评估使用季铵化合物对检查室表面进行去污的有效性。其次，脓皮病犬使用房间后评估凝固酶阳性葡萄球菌(CoPS)菌落计数，然后在清洁和消毒后评估。 方法和材料: 在第I部分中，用离散荧光染料Glo Germ标记10个房间表面，以评估两种基于Virex II 256的清洁方案之间的表面清洁有效性。在第II部分中，通过3M Staph Express系统对CoPS菌落进行定量。葡萄球菌性脓皮病患犬使用后，在详细的清洁和消毒方案后，立即对10个标准化房间表面进行采样。 结果: 通过整体方案和细节方案，100个表面分别有24个和81个完全清洁。根据细节方案，充分清洁表面的平均数量更高(P = 0.003)。细节方案减少了8个表面的CoPS菌落计数(P0.01)，不包括椅子(P = 0.055)。在检查床垫下，未从诊台分离出CoPS。 结论和临床相关性: 建议采用细节方案进行检查室清洁和消毒，以尽量减少葡萄球菌对兽医检查室表面的污染。椅子的合理消毒需要进一步研究。.As infecções estafilocócicas nosocomiais resistentes à meticilina (MR) são uma preocupação global. As superfícies dos consultórios de dermatologia veterinária podem ser um reservatório, devido à natureza corriqueira da piodermite estafilocócica. HIPÓTESE/OBJETIVOS: Primeiramente, avaliou-se a eficácia da descontaminação das superfícies dos consultórios utilizando um composto de amônia quaternária após dois protocolos de higienização diferentes. Em segundo lugar, as contagens de colônias de estafilococos coagulase-positiva (CoPS) foram avaliadas após o uso do consultório por cães com piodermite e após limpeza e desinfecção. MÉTODOS E MATERIAIS: Na Parte I, 10 superfícies foram marcadas com um corante fluorescente discreto, chamado Glo Germ, para avaliar a eficácia da limpeza de superfície entre dois protocolos de limpeza baseados no uso do Virex II 256. Na Parte II, as colônias de CoPS foram quantificadas por meio do 3M Staph Express System. Dez superfícies de salas padronizadas foram amostradas após o uso por um cão com piodermite estafilocócica e imediatamente após um protocolo detalhado de limpeza e desinfecção.Um total de 24 de 100 e 81 de 100 superfícies foram completamente limpas pelos protocolos geral e detalhado, respectivamente. O número médio de superfícies adequadamente desinfectadas foi maior com o protocolo detalhado (P=0,003). O protocolo detalhado reduziu a contagem de colônias CoPS de oito superfícies (P0,01), e não em cadeiras (P=0,055). Nenhum CoPS foi isolado abaixo do tapete na mesa de exame. CONCLUSÕES E RELEVÂNCIA CLÍNICA: Protocolos detalhados de limpeza e desinfecção de consultórios são recomendados para minimizar a contaminação das superfícies por estafilococos. A desinfecção adequada das cadeiras requer um estudo mais aprofundado. more...

Objective To provide reference values for ocular examination and diagnostics in ophthalmologically normal sugar gliders (Petaurus breviceps). To retrospectively determine the prevalence of ocular diseases in sugar gliders presenting to a single institution. Animals Ten client owned and 106 previously evaluated sugar gliders. Procedure A descriptive study evaluated sugar gliders presented to Colorado State University's Avian, Exotics, and Zoological Medicine Service (CSU-AEZ) from August-2019 to January-2020. A complete ophthalmic examination including Schirmer tear test II (STT II), phenol red threat test (PRTT), intraocular pressure (IOP) via rebound tonometry, fluorescein, and rose bengal stain was performed under anesthesia. Conjunctival aerobic culture swabs and cytology were collected prior to ophthalmic evaluation. A retrospective review of medical records of sugar gliders presented to CSU-AEZ from 2008 to 2018 for ocular disease was performed. Results Mean values ± standard deviation for selected diagnostics included the following: STT II: 2.2 ± 6.7 mm/min; PRTT: 0 ± 0 mm/15 s; IOP: 12 ± 2.6 mm Hg. Fluorescein and rose bengal staining highlighted corneal abrasions secondary to tear testing. The three most common conjunctival bacterial isolates cultured were Staphylococcus spp. (3/20, 15%), Coryneform spp. (3/20, 15%), and unidentified Gram-positive cocci (3/20, 15%). Retrospective analysis revealed ocular diseases to be the third most common abnormality resulting in sugar glider presentations (13/106, 12.3%). Conclusion This descriptive study gives reference values for IOP, conjunctival microbiology, and cytology for sugar gliders. STT II and PRTT provide little clinical value in sugar gliders. The retrospective study revealed that ocular abnormalities, often secondary to dental disease, are a common reason for presentation. more...

Background Plague caused by Yersinia pestis is a highly infectious and potentially fatal zoonotic disease that can be spread by wild and domestic animals. In endemic areas of the northern hemisphere plague typically cycles from March to October, when flea vectors are active. Clinical forms of disease include bubonic, septicemic, and pneumonic plague. All clinical forms are uncommon in dogs and the pneumonic form is exceedingly rare. Case presentation Two mixed breed young-adult male domestic dogs presented to Colorado veterinarians with fever and vague signs that progressed to hemoptysis within 24 h. Case 1 presented in June 2014, while Case 2 occurred in December 2017. Thoracic radiography of Case 1 and 2 revealed right dorsal and right accessory lobe consolidation, respectively. In Case 1 initial differential diagnoses included pulmonary contusion due to trauma or diphacinone toxicosis. Case 1 was euthanized ~ 24 h post presentation due to progressive dyspnea and hemoptysis. Plague was confirmed 9 days later, after the dog’s owner was hospitalized with pneumonia. Case 2 was treated as foreign body/aspiration pneumonia and underwent lung lobectomy at a veterinary teaching hospital. Case 2 was euthanized after 5 days of hospitalization when bacterial culture of the excised lobe yielded Yersinia pestis. Both dogs had severe diffuse necrohemorrhagic and suppurative pneumonia at post mortem examination. Conclusions Both dogs were misdiagnosed due to the atypical lobar presentation of an extremely rare form of plague in a species that infrequently succumbs to clinical disease. Presentation outside of the typical transmission period of plague was also a factor leading to delayed diagnosis in Case 2. Erroneous identification by automated bacterial identification systems was problematic in both cases. In endemic areas, plague should be ruled out early in febrile dogs with acute respiratory signs, hemoptysis, lobar or diffuse pathology, and potential for exposure, regardless of season. Seasonal and geographic distributions of plague may shift with climate change, so vigilance by primary care veterinarians is warranted. Timely submission of samples to a veterinary diagnostic laboratory could expedite accurate diagnosis and reduce potential for human and domestic animal exposure. more...

Carbapenemase-producing Enterobacteriaceae (CPE) threaten both agriculture and public health. While carbapenems are restricted in food-producing animals, other β-lactams, such as ceftiofur, are frequently applied in livestock. While the relationship is not fully elucidated, ceftiofur use may provide selective pressure that promotes carbapenem resistance. Recently reported in U.S. livestock, plasmid-mediated CPE are also present in livestock in Europe and Asia. We previously reported the rare carbapenemase gene, bla more...

In the US, nontyphoidal Salmonellae are a common foodborne zoonotic pathogen causing gastroenteritis. Invasive Salmonella infections caused by extended-spectrum cephalosporin resistant (ESCR) phenotypes are more likely to result in treatment failure and adverse health outcomes, especially in severe pediatric Salmonella infections where the extended-spectrum β-lactams are the therapy of choice. To examine the genetic and epidemiologic characteristics of ESCR Salmonellae which may enter the food chain, we characterized 44 ceftiofur–resistant Salmonella isolates from the National Animal Health Monitoring System (NAHMS) 2011 beef cattle feedlot health and management study. As part of the NAHMS Feedlot 2011 study, 5050 individual fecal samples from 68 large (1000+ head capacity) feedlots were cultured for Salmonella spp. The resulting 460 positive samples yielded 571 Salmonella isolates with 44 (8%) expressing an AmpC β-lactamase phenotype. These phenotypic blaCMY-2 Salmonella isolates represented 8 serotypes, most commonly S. Newport (n = 14, 32%), S. Typhimurium (n = 13, 30%), and S. Reading (n = 5, 11%), followed by S. Dublin, S. Infantis, S. Montevideo, S. Rough O:i;v:1;7, and S. Uganda. Carriage of the blaCMY-2 gene was confirmed for all isolates expressing an AmpC β-lactamase phenotype by PCR. Additionally, all 44 isolates were shown to carry the blaCMY-2 gene on a large IncA/C plasmid, a gene/plasmid combination which has been previously reported in multiple species. Other plasmids, including IncN, FIC, and FIIA, were also detected in some isolates. Cattle fed chlortetracycline were less likely to be positive for a blaCMY-2 Salmonella isolate in their enteric flora compared to those not receiving chlortetracycline during the feeding period. Carriage of blaCMY-2 was more prevalent in Salmonella isolates originating from lighter weight cattle, cattle fed tylosin and dairy breeds. Our characterization of the NAHMS Feedlot 2011 study Salmonella isolates with ESCR phenotype shows that while other cephalosporin resistance mechanisms have been reported in US cattle, specific serotypes harboring blaCMY-2 on IncA/C plasmids may be the dominant resistance genotype. more...

Objective To assess the rate of bacterial contamination of fluid and ports in intravenous bags in a veterinary emergency room (ER) and intensive care unit (ICU). Design Experimental model. Setting Ninety intravenous fluid bags of lactated balanced-electrolytes solution (1 L) hung in a university hospital. Interventions Bags were hung in 2 different locations in the ER (sink and bins) and one location in the ICU (sink) for 11 days. Bags were punctured 3 times daily with a sterile needle to simulate clinical use. Injection ports were swabbed and 50 mL of fluid were collected in duplicates on days 0, 2, 4, 7, and 10. Aerobic bacterial cultures were performed on the fluid and injection port. Contamination was defined as bacterial growth of a similar phenotype across 2 consecutive times. Increase in the fluid contamination rate from day 0 was tested using an exact binomial test. Port contamination rate between locations was tested using Fisher's exact test. Main Results Combined bacterial growth on injection ports reached a mean (95% confidence interval) of 8.1 (0.005–16.2) cfu/port on day 10. The combined port contamination was 3.3%, 11.1%, 17.8%, and 31.1% on days 0, 2, 4, and 7, respectively. Port contamination was similar between ER and ICU. However, port contamination was higher in the sink versus the bins area (38.3% vs 16.7%, P = 0.032). No fluid bag was contaminated at days 0 and 2. The contamination rate of fluid bag was 1.1% and 4.4% on days 4 and 7, respectively. All bags with contaminated fluid were in the ER (6.7%, 95% exact binomial confidence interval 1.9–16.2%). Conclusions Injection port contamination reached 31.1% on day 7. Contamination was more likely when the bags were hung next to a sink. In our model of bag puncture, fluid contamination occurred between days 2 and 4. more...

Effective environmental disinfection is necessary to prevent nosocomial infections from meticillin-resistant Staphylococcus pseudintermedius (MRSP). However, there are currently no commercial disinfectant sprays or fogging systems with label claims against MRSP.To evaluate the efficacy of a quaternary ammonium product (QAC), an accelerated hydrogen peroxide product (AHP), a hydrogen peroxide and silver product (HAL), and a hydrogen peroxide and silver fogging system (FOG) against MRSP.Sterile plastic surfaces inoculated with MRSP were treated with 200 µL of QAC, AHP or HAL for the recommended contact times. For FOG, inoculated samples were placed in eight positions within a sealed room before fogging for the recommended contact time. Post-treatment bacterial counts were compared to untreated positive controls. Sterile uninoculated surfaces served as negative controls.Least-squares mean reduction (logQAC and AHP effectively disinfected surfaces inoculated with MRSP. Although HAL provided lower MRSP reduction, it may be considered clinically acceptable. FOG as a sole means of MRSP disinfection was not supported yet may have utility as an adjunctive disinfectant in clinical areas with bacterial densities lower than our experimental inoculum.Une désinfection environnementale efficace est nécessaire pour prévenir les infections nosocomiales par Staphylococcus pseudintermedius résistant à la méticiline (MRSP). Cependant, il n’existe pas de désinfectants en spray ou en fumigène disponible dans le commerce avec une mention spécifique contre les MRSP. HYPOTHÈSES/OBJECTIFS: Déterminer l’efficacité d’un ammonium quaternaire (QAC), un peroxyde d’hydrogène accéléré (AHP), un peroxyde d’hydrogène et d’argent 5HAL) et un peroxyde d’hydrogène et d’argent en fumigène (FOG) contre MRSP. MATÉRIELS ET MÉTHODES: Les surfaces plastiques stériles inoculées avec MRSP ont été traitées avec 200 μL de QAC, AHP ou HAL pour les temps de contact recommandés. Pour FOG, les échantillons inoculés ont été placés dans huit positions dans une pièce fermée avant fumigation pour les temps de contact recommandés. Des comptages bactériens post-traitements ont été comparés aux contrôles positifs non traités. Les surfaces non inoculées, stériles, ont servis de contrôles négatifs. RÉSULTATS: La réduction moyenne des moindres carrés (logQAC et AHP ont désinfecté efficacement les surfaces inoculées par MRSP. Bien que HAL a entrainé une diminution de MRSP plus faible, c’est considéré comme cliniquement acceptable. FOG en tant qu’unique moyen de désinfection de MRSP n’ a pas été appuyé pour le moment mais pourrait être utile comme désinfectant complémentaire dans les zones cliniques avec des densités bactériennes plus faibles que notre inoculum expérimental.INTRODUCCIÓN: Es necesaria una desinfección ambiental efectiva para prevenir las infecciones nosocomiales por Staphylococcus pseudintermedius resistente a meticilina (MRSP). Sin embargo, actualmente no hay aerosoles desinfectantes comerciales o sistemas de nebulización indicados frente a MRSP. HIPÓTESIS/OBJETIVOS: Evaluar la eficacia de un producto de amonio cuaternario (QAC), un producto de peróxido de hidrógeno acelerado (AHP), un producto de peróxido de hidrógeno y plata (HAL) y un sistema de nebulización de peróxido de hidrógeno y plata (FOG) frente a MRSP. MÉTODOS Y MATERIALES: Las superficies plásticas estériles inoculadas con MRSP se trataron con 200 μL de QAC, AHP o HAL durante los tiempos de contacto recomendados. Para FOG, las muestras inoculadas se colocaron en ocho posiciones dentro de una habitación sellada antes de nebulizar durante el tiempo de contacto recomendado. Los recuentos bacterianos posteriores al tratamiento se compararon con los controles positivos no tratados. Las superficies no inoculadas estériles sirvieron como controles negativos. RESULTADOS: La reducción media de mínimos cuadrados (log10) en las unidades formadoras de colonias (cfu) fue de 3,55 log10 para QAC (P0,0001), 3,60 log10 para AHP (P0,0001), 1,66 log10 para HAL (P0,0001) y 0,32 log10 para FOG (P = 0,004). QAC, AHP y HAL redujeron el cfu de MRSP en un 99,97%, 99,98% y 97,81%, respectivamente. FOG redujo las cfu en un 52,14%. CONCLUSIONES E IMPORTANCIA CLÍNICA: QAC y AHP desinfectaron efectivamente las superficies inoculadas con MRSP. Aunque HAL proporcionó una reducción menor de MRSP, puede considerarse clínicamente aceptable. La FOG como único medio de desinfección de MRSP no fue aceptable, pero puede tener utilidad como desinfectante adyuvante en áreas clínicas con densidades bacterianas más bajas que nuestro inóculo experimental.Eine wirksame Desinfektion der Umwelt ist nötig, um nosokomiale Infektionen durch Methicillin-resistente Staphylococcus pseudintermedius (MRSP) zu verhindern. Es gibt jedoch derzeit keine kommerziellen Desinfektionssprays oder Nebelsysteme, die nachweislich gegenüber MRSP wirksam sind.Eine Evaluierung der Wirksamkeit eines quaternären Ammoniumprodukts (QAC), eines Accelerated Hydrogenperoxidprodukts (AHP), eines Hydrogenperoxid und Silberprodukts (HAL), sowie eines Hydrogenperoxid und Silbervernebelungssystems (FOG) gegenüber MRSP.Es wurden sterile Plastikoberflächen, die mit MRSP inokuliert waren, mit 200µL QAC, AHP oder HAL für die empfohlene Einwirkungsdauer behandelt. Für FOG wurden die inokulierten Proben in acht Positionen innerhalb eines abgedichteten Raumes platziert, bevor für die empfohlene Kontaktzeit genebelt wurde. Die Bakterienzahlen wurden nach der Behandlung mit jenen der unbehandelten Kontrollen verglichen. Sterile nicht inokulierte Oberflächen dienten als Negativkontrollen.Least-squares Mean reduction (logQAC und AHP desinfizierten mit MRSP inokulierte Oberflächen in wirksamer Weise. Obwohl HAL eine niedrigere MRSP Reduzierung erbrachte, kann es für klinisch akzeptabel gelten. FOG als einzige Maßnahme zur MRSP Desinfektion ist nicht ausreichend, könnte aber als unterstützendes Desinfektionsmittel in klinischen Bereichen zum Einsatz kommen, wo niedrigere als die im Experiment inokulierten Bakteriendichten vorkommen.背景: 有效的环境消毒是预防耐甲氧西林假中间型葡萄球菌 (MRSP) 医院感染的必要条件。然而, 目前没有商业消毒喷雾或雾化系统的标签声明可以针对MRSP。 假设/目的: 评价季铵盐产品(QAC)、加速过氧化氢产品(AHP)、过氧化氢和银制剂(HAL)以及过氧化氢和银雾系统(FOG)对MRSP的有效性。 方法和材料: 接种MRSP的无菌塑料表面用200μLQAC、AHP或HAL处理,按照建议的接触时间。对于FOG,在按照建议的接触时间进行雾化之前,将接种样本置于密封室内的8个位置。将处理后细菌计数与未处理阳性对照进行比较。无菌未接种表面作为阴性对照。 结果: 菌落形成单位(cfu)的最小二乘平均减少(log背景: メチシリン耐性Staphylococcus pseudintermediu（MRSP）による院内感染を防ぐには、効果的な環境消毒が必要である。ただし、現在、MRSPに対するラベル表示のある市販の消毒スプレーまたは噴霧システムはない。 仮説/目的: お本研究の目的は、第4級アンモニウム生成物（QAC）、加速過酸化水素生成物（AHP）、過酸化水素および銀生成物（HAL）、過酸化水素および銀噴霧システム（FOG）のMRSPに対する効果を評価することであった。 材料と方法: MRSPを接種した滅菌プラスチックの表面に200μLのQAC、AHPまたはHALを推奨接触時間で処理した。 FOGの場合、推奨接触時間による噴霧前に、接種サンプルを密閉室内の8つの位置に配置した。処理後の細菌数を未処理の陽性対照と比較した。無菌の非接種表面はネガティブコントロールとして機能した。 結果: コロニー形成単位（cfu）の最小二乗平均削減（logA realização de desinfecção ambiental eficaz é importante para evitar infecções hospitalares por Staphylococcus pseudintermedius resistente à meticilina (MRSP). No entanto, atualmente não existem sprays desinfetantes comerciais ou sistemas de nebulização registrados para uso contra MRSP. HIPÓTESE / OBJETIVOS: Avaliar a eficácia contra MRSP de um produto à base de amônia quaternária (QAC), um produto à base de peróxido de hidrogênio acelerado (AHP), um produto à base de peróxido de hidrogênio e prata (HAL) e um sistema de nebulização à base peróxido de hidrogênio e prata (FOG). MÉTODOS E MATERIAIS: Superfícies plásticas estéreis inoculadas com MRSP foram tratadas com 200 μL de QAC, AHP ou HAL pelos tempos de contato recomendados. Para a FOG, as amostras inoculadas foram colocadas em oito posições dentro de uma sala fechada antes da nebulização durante o tempo de contato recomendado. As contagens bacterianas pós-tratamento foram comparadas com controles positivos não tratados. As superfícies não inoculadas estéreis serviram como controle negativo.A redução média dos mínimos quadrados (log more...

Curvularia spp. are globally distributed saprophytic fungi, classified in the literature as dematiaceous, or darkly pigmented fungi. These fungi have been increasingly recognized as causing cutaneous, ocular, respiratory, and central nervous system infections in humans, but have been infrequently documented as pathogens in the veterinary literature. A 5-yr-old male Chinese goral ( more...

OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study is to evaluate a group of young commercially available Skinny pigs, to gain information regarding ocular findings in this breed of guinea pig. Comparisons of ocular findings are to be made between Skinny pigs and haired guinea pigs. ANIMAL STUDIED Ten haired guinea pigs and ten Skinny pigs were examined. PROCEDURE A complete ophthalmic examination including Schirmer tear test-II (STT-II), phenol red thread test (PRTT), rebound tonometry with TonoVet PLUS, Fluorescein and Rose Bengal stain was performed. Microbiology swabs for aerobic bacterial growth were collected from conjunctiva of both eyes prior to the ophthalmic examination. RESULTS The ophthalmic examination revealed seven abnormal ocular findings: trichiasis, mucopurulent discharge, hyperemia/chemosis of the conjunctiva, corneal fibrosis, corneal vascularization, and foreign body on the cornea or conjunctiva. Skinny pigs had a significantly higher amount of mucopurulent discharge (P = .0133) and a significantly higher STT-II (P more...

In order to estimate the prevalence of AmpC- and ESBL β-lactamase-producing Enterobacteriaceae in the faecal flora of a healthy domestic canine population, faecal samples were obtained from healthy dogs receiving routine parasitology screening at the Ohio State University Veterinary Medical Center, between January 2013 and April 2013. Samples were screened for the presence of AmpC and ESBL β-lactamase phenotypes, and the clinically important genotypes, blaCMY and blaCTX-M , were confirmed via conventional PCR. Minimum inhibitory concentrations were determined for isolates and plasmids were characterized. Two hundred and twelve canine faecal samples were screened, of which 30 harboured isolates carrying the AmpC blaCMY , representing 14.2% of the population (95% CI: 9.4-18.9%). Nine samples harboured isolates that carried the ESBL blaCTX-M , representing 4.2% of the population (95% CI: 1.5-7.0%). Isolates containing blaCMY harboured multiple plasmid replicon types, while isolates containing blaCTX-M harboured few plasmid replicon types. Our results suggest that domestic dogs may serve as a reservoir for extended-spectrum cephalosporin resistance genes for other domestic animal populations as well as for their human companions. This represents a potential veterinary and public health risk that warrants further investigation and continued surveillance to ascertain the nature and extent of the risk. The high level of diversity of plasmid content among isolates harbouring blaCMY suggests broader dissemination relative to blaCTX-M isolates. more...

Summary The dissemination of Enterobacteriaceae expressing resistance to extended-spectrum cephalosporins, which are therapeutically used in both human and veterinary medicine, is of critical concern. The normal commensal flora of food animals may serve as an important reservoir for the zoonotic food-borne transmission of Enterobacteriaceae harbouring β-lactam resistance. We hypothesized that the predominant AmpC and ESBL genes reported in US livestock and fresh retail meat products, blaCMY-2 and blaCTX-M, would also be predominant in human enteric flora. We recovered enteric flora from a convenience sample of patients included in a large tertiary medical centre's Clostridium difficile surveillance programme to screen for and estimate the frequency of carriage of AmpC and ESBL resistance genes. In- and outpatient diarrhoeic submissions (n = 692) received for C. difficile testing at the medical centre's clinical diagnostic laboratory from July to December, 2013, were included. Aliquoted to a transport swab, each submission was inoculated to MacConkey broth with cefotaxime, incubated at 37°C and then inoculated to MacConkey agars supplemented with cefoxitin and cefepime to select for the AmpC and ESBL phenotypes, with blaCMY and blaCTX-M genotypes confirmed by PCR and sequencing. From the 692 diarrhoeic submissions, our selective culture yielded 184 isolates (26.6%) with reduced susceptibility to cefotaxime. Of these, 46 (6.7%) samples harboured commensal isolates carrying the AmpC blaCMY. Another 21 (3.0%) samples produced isolates harbouring the ESBL blaCTX-M: 19 carrying CTX-M-15 and 2 with CTX-M-27. Our results indicate that β-lactam resistance genes likely acquired through zoonotic food-borne transmission are present in the enteric flora of this hospital-associated population at lower levels than reported in livestock and fresh food products. more...

Conventional therapy for canine acral lick dermatitis (ALD) consists of systemic antibiotics and anti-anxiety medications. Low-level laser therapy (LLLT) is a noninvasive therapy used to treat inflammatory and painful conditions.The primary objective was to determine whether LLLT with conventional therapy would be beneficial as an adjunct treatment for ALD. We hypothesized that LLLT and conventional therapy combined would result in a greater reduction in licking Visual Analog Score (LVAS) compared to conventional therapy alone. Secondary objectives were to assess change in lesion/ulcer size, thickness and hair growth.Thirteen dogs with a skin lesion consistent with ALD.Dogs were randomly assigned to two groups. All dogs received systemic antibiotics and trazodone. The treatment group (TG) received LLLT by laser (130 mW, 2 min) with blue and red light-emitting diodes (LEDs), while the control group (CG) had sham therapy (laser/LEDs off). Treatments were administered three times weekly for two weeks, then twice weekly for two weeks for a total of 10 visits. Descriptive statistics were performed (mean, median); primary and secondary objectives were assessed with nonparametric ANOVA (Kruskal-Wallis test), with significance set at P 0.05.Thirteen dogs (six CG, seven TG) were enrolled. There were no significant differences in median LVAS, lesion/ulcer size or thickness of the ALD lesion between TG and CG. There was a significantly greater increase (24%) in hair growth in TG (P = 0.0081) compared to CG.Treatment of ALD requires multimodal therapy. Although combining LLLT with conventional therapy did not result in a significantly greater reduction in LVAS, there was a significant increase in hair growth compared to conventional therapy alone.Le traitement de la dermatite de léchage du chien (ALD) consiste en une antibiothérapie systémique et un traitement anxiolytique. Un traitement au laser de basse énergie (LLLT) est un traitement non invasif utilisé pour traiter les atteintes douloureuses et inflammatoires. HYPOTHÈSES/OBJECTIFS: L’objectif initial était de déterminer si LLLT avec traitement conventionnel pourrait être bénéfique comme traitement complémentaire pour l’ALD. Nous supposons que LLLT et le traitement conventionnel associé résulterait en une meilleure amélioration de l’échelle visuelle analogue de léchage (LVAS) comparé à un traitement conventionnel seul. Les objectifs secondaires étaient d’estimer les changements dans la taille de la lésion/ulcère, l’épaississement et la croissance pilaire.Treize animaux atteints de lésions compatibles avec ALD. MATÉRIELS ET MÉTHODES: Les chiens ont été répartis au hasard en deux groupes. Tous les chiens recevaient des antibiotiques systémiques et de la trazodone. Le groupe traitement (TG) a reçu LLLT par laser (130 nW, 2 min) avec diodes LEDs émettant de la lumière bleue et rouge, tandis que le groupe contrôle (CG) avait un traitement placebo (laser/LEDS éteint). Les traitements ont été administrés trois fois par semaine pendant deux semaines, puis deux fois par semaine pendant deux semaines pour un total de 10 visites. Les statistiques descriptives ont été réalisées (moyenne, médiane) ; les objectifs primaires et secondaires ont été évalués par ANOVA non paramétrique (Kruskal-Wallis test), avec limite significative à P 0.05. RÉSULTATS: Treize chiens (six GC, sept TG) ont été inclus. Il n’y avait pas de différence significative des médianes de LVAS, taille de lésion/ulcère ou épaississement de lésion ALD entre TG et CG. Il y avait significativement une meilleure augmentation (24%) de la croissance pilaire dans TG (P = 0.0081) comparé à CG.Le traitement de l’ALD nécessite un traitement multimodal. Bien que l’association de LLLT avec un traitement conventionnel ne résulte pas en une réduction significativement plus marquée de LVAS, il y avait une augmentation significative de la croissance pilaire comparée à un traitement conventionnel seul.INTRODUCCIÓN: la terapia convencional para la dermatitis acral por lamido canina (ALD) consiste en antibióticos sistémicos y medicamentos contra la ansiedad. La terapia con láser de bajo nivel (LLLT) es una terapia no invasiva que se usa para tratar afecciones inflamatorias y dolorosas. HIPÓTESIS/OBJETIVOS: el objetivo principal fue determinar si la LLLT con terapia convencional sería beneficiosa como tratamiento complementario para la ALD. Planteamos la hipótesis de que la LLLT y la terapia convencional combinada daría como resultado una mayor reducción en la valoración visual análoga (LVAS) en comparación con la terapia convencional sola. Los objetivos secundarios fueron evaluar el cambio en el tamaño de la lesión/úlcera, el grosor y el crecimiento del cabello. ANIMALES: trece perros con una lesión compatible con ALD. MÉTODOS Y MATERIALES: los perros se asignaron al azar a dos grupos. Todos los perros recibieron antibióticos sistémicos y trazodona. El grupo de tratamiento (TG) recibió LLLT por láser (130 mW, 2 min) con diodos emisores de luz (LEDs) azul y rojo, mientras que el grupo de control (CG) recibió terapia simulada (láser/LED apagados). Los tratamientos se administraron tres veces por semana durante dos semanas, luego dos veces por semana durante dos semanas para un total de 10 visitas. Se realizaron estadísticas descriptivas (media, mediana); los objetivos primarios y secundarios se evaluaron con ANOVA no paramétrico (prueba de Kruskal-Wallis), con una significación establecida en P 0,05. RESULTADOS: se incluyeron trece perros (seis CG, siete TG). No hubo diferencias significativas en la mediana de LVAS, tamaño de la lesión/úlcera o grosor de la lesión de ALD entre TG y CG. Hubo un aumento significativamente mayor (24%) en el crecimiento del cabello en TG (P = 0,0081) en comparación con CG. CONCLUSIONES Y RELEVANCIA CLÍNICA: el tratamiento de la ALD requiere terapia multimodal. Aunque la combinación de la LLLT con la terapia convencional no dio como resultado una reducción significativamente mayor en LVAS, hubo un aumento significativo en el crecimiento del cabello en comparación con la terapia convencional sola.Die konventionelle Therapie einer akralen Leckdermatitis (ALD) besteht in einer Verabreichung von Antibiotika sowie angstlösenden Medikamenten. Low-Level Lasertherapie (LLLT) ist eine nicht-invasive Therapie, die zur Behandlung von entzündlichen und schmerzhaften Zuständen eingesetzt wird.Das primäre Ziel war es festzustellen, ob die LLLT mit einer konventionellen Therapie als zusätzliche Behandlung für die ALD vorteilhaft wäre. Wir hypothetisierten, dass die LLLT und die konventionelle Therapie in Kombination in einer größeren Reduzierung der Schleck Visual Analog Score (LVAS) resultieren würde als die konventionelle Therapie allein. Sekundäre Ziele waren die Erfassung der Veränderungen von Läsionen/Ulzera, Dicke und Haarwachstum.Dreizehn Hunde mit Veränderungen, die mit einer ALD kompatibel waren.Die Hunde wurden zufällig in zwei Gruppen eingeteilt. Alle Hunde erhielten systemische Antibiotika und Trazodon. Die Behandlungsgruppe (TG) erhielt LLLT mittels Laser (130 mW, 2 min) mit Blau- und Rotlicht-emittierenden Dioden (LEDs), während die Kontrollgruppe (CG) eine vorgetäuschte Therapie (Laser/LEDs aus) erhielt. Die Behandlungen wurden dreimal wöchentlich für zwei Wochen durchgeführt, dann zweimal wöchentlich für zwei Wochen für insgesamt 10 Besuche. Es wurde eine deskriptive Statistik durchgeführt (Durchschnitt, Median); Primär- und Sekundärziele wurden mittels nicht parametrischer ANOVA (Kruskall-Wallis Test) erfasst, mit einer festgesetzten Signifikanz bei P 0,05.Dreizehn Hunde (Sechs CG, sieben TG) wurden verwendet. Es bestanden keine signifikanten Unterschiede zwischen den Medianwerten der LVAS, der Größe der Läsionen/Ulzera oder der Dicker der ALD Veränderungen zwischen der TG und der CG. Es bestand eine signifikant höhere Zunahme an Haarwachstum (24%) bei der TG (P = 0,0081) im Vergleich zur CG.Die Behandlung der ALD benötigt eine multimodale Therapie. Obwohl eine Kombination der LLLT mit konventioneller Therapie nicht in einer signifikanten Reduktion der LVAS resultierte, bestand eine signifikante Zunahme beim Haarwachstum im Vergleich zur konventionellen Therapie allein.背景: 犬肢端舐性皮膚炎 (ALD) の従来の治療法は、全身性抗生物質および抗不安薬で構成されている。低レベルレーザー治療法 (LLLT) は、炎症および疼痛を伴う状態を治療するために使用される非侵襲的治療法である。 仮説/目的: 主な目的は、従来の治療法を用いたLLLTがALDの補助療法として有益であるかどうかを判断することであった。LLLTと従来の治療法を組み合わせると、従来の治療法のみと比較して、舐性行動の視覚的アナログスコア (LVAS) が大幅に減少するという仮説を立てた。二次的な目的は、病変/潰瘍のサイズ、厚さ、および発毛の変化を評価することであった。 供試動物: ALDと一致した病変を持つ13頭の犬。 材料と方法: 犬はランダムに2グループに割り当てられた。すべての犬は全身抗生物質およびトラゾドンを投与された。治療群 (TG) は青および赤の発光ダイオード (LED) を使用したレーザー (130 mW、2分) でLLLTを受け、対照群 (CG) は偽治療 (レーザー/ LEDオフ) を受けた。治療は週に3回、2週間、次に週に2回、2週間、合計10回の訪問で行われた。記述統計が実行された (平均、中央値) 。一次および二次目的は、ノンパラメトリックANOVA (Kruskal-Wallis検定) で評価され、有意性はP 0.05に設定された。 結果: 13頭の犬 (6頭のCG、7頭のTG) が登録された。TGとCGの間で、LVASの中央値、病変/潰瘍のサイズ、またはALD病変の厚さに有意差はなかった。CGと比較してTG (P = 0.0081) の発毛は有意に大きく増加した (24%)。 結論と臨床的関連性: ALDの治療にはマルチモーダル療法が必要である。LLLTを従来の治療法と組み合わせても、LVASの大幅な低下は見られなかったが、従来の治療法単独と比較して、発毛が大幅に増加した。.背景: 犬肢端舔性皮炎(ALD)的常规治疗包括全身抗生素和抗焦虑药物。低水平激光治疗(LLLT)是一种用于治疗炎症和疼痛疾病的无创疗法。 假设/目的: 主要目的是确定联合ALD的常规治疗,LLLT作为辅助治疗是否有益。我们假设, 与单独常规治疗相比, LLLT和常规治疗联合, 可更多降低舔舐视觉模拟评分(LVAS)。次要目的是评估病变/溃疡大小、厚度和毛发生长的变化。 动物: 13只犬的病变符合ALD。 方法和材料: 将犬随机分配至两组。所有犬均接受全身抗生素和曲唑酮治疗。治疗组(TG)用蓝光和红光发光二极管(LEDs)激光(130 mw,2 min)接受LLLT, 而对照组(CG)为假治疗 (激光/LEDs关闭) 。每周治疗3次, 持续2周, 然后每周治疗2次, 持续2周, 到院治疗共10次。进行描述性统计 (平均值、中位数) ; 使用非参数ANOVA (Kruskal-Wallis检验) 评估主要和次要目的, 显著性设定为P0.05。 结果: 入组13只犬 (6只CG,7只TG) 。TG和CG之间的中位LVAS、病变/溃疡大小或ALD病变厚度无显著差异。与CG相比, TG的毛发生长显著增加(24%)(P=0.0081)。 结论和临床相关性: ALD需要多种形式治疗。尽管LLLT联合常规治疗未导致LVAS显著降低, 但与单独常规治疗相比, 毛发生长增加显著。.A terapia convencional para a dermatite acral por lambedura (DAL) consiste em antibioticoterapia sistêmica e medicamentos ansiolíticos. A laserterapia de baixa potência (LBP) é um método terapêutico não invasivo utilizado no tratamento de doenças inflamatórias e dolorosas. HIPÓTESE/OBJETIVOS: O objetivo primário foi determinar se a LBP com a terapia convencional seria benéfica como um tratamento adjuvante para DAL. A nossa hipótese foi que a LBP associada à terapia convencional resultaria em uma maior redução do escore visual analógico de lambedura (LVAS) comparado à terapia convencional isoladamente. Os objetivos secundários foram acessar alterações no tamanho, espessura e crescimento de pelos na lesão/úlcera.Treze cães com uma lesão consistente com DAL. MÉTODOS E MATERIAIS: Os cães foram divididos aleatoriamente em dois grupos. Todos os cães receberam antibióticos sistêmicos e trazodona. O grupo tratamento (GT) recebeu LBP por laser (130 mW, 2 min) com diodos emissores de luz (LEDs) azul e vermelha, enquanto o grupo controle (GC) recebeu a terapia sham (sem laser/LEDs). Os tratamentos foram administrados três vezes por semana por duas semanas, depois duas vezes por semana por duas semanas em um total de 10 visitas. Realizou-se estatística descritiva (média, mediana); os objetivos primários e secundários foram avaliados por ANOVA não-paramétrica (Teste de Kruskal-Wallis), com o nível de significância de P0,05.Treze cães (seis do GC e sete do GT) foram incluídos. Não houve diferenças significativas no LVAS médio, tamanho ou espessura da lesão/úlcera da lesão por DAL entre GT e GC. GT. Observou-se um crescimento de pelos significativamente maior (24%) no GT (P = 0,0081) comparado ao GC. CONCLUSÕES E RELEVÂNCIA CLÍNICA: O tratamento da DAL requer terapia multimodal. Apesar de associação de LBP com a terapia convencional não ter resultado em uma redução significativa no LVAS, houve um aumento significativo no crescimento de pelos comparado à terapia convencional isoladamente. more...

Escherichia coli is the most common cause of human and canine urinary tract infection (UTI). Clonal groups, often with high levels of antimicrobial resistance, are a major component of the E. coli population that causes human UTI. While little is known about the population structure of E. coli that causes UTI in dogs, there is evidence that dogs and humans can share fecal strains of E. coli and that human-associated strains can cause disease in dogs. In order to better characterize the E. coli strains that cause canine UTI, we analyzed 295 E. coli isolates obtained from canine urine samples from five veterinary diagnostic laboratories and analyzed their multilocus sequence types, phenotypic and genotypic antimicrobial resistance profiles, and virulence-associated gene repertoires. Sequence type 372 (ST372), an infrequent human pathogen, was the predominant sequence type in dogs at all locations. Extended-spectrum β-lactamase-producing isolates with bla(CTX-M) genes were uncommon in canine isolates but when present were often associated with sequence types that have been described in human infections. This provides support for occasional cross-host-species sharing of strains that cause extraintestinal disease and highlights the importance of understanding the role of companion animals in the overall transmission patterns of extraintestinal pathogenic E. coli. more...

Use of the Carba-R assay for detection of carbapenem-resistant Gram-negative organisms (CROs) can provide data for implementation of a rapid infection control response to minimize the spread of CROs in the health care setting., In this pilot study, traditional culture and PCR methods were compared to the Cepheid GeneXpert IV molecular diagnostic system with the Xpert Carba-R assay (Carba-R assay) for detection of carbapenem resistance genes in primary environmental samples collected during a health care-related outbreak. Overall, traditional culture-dependent PCR and the Carba-R assay demonstrated 75% agreement. The Carba-R assay detected carbapenemase genes in five additional samples and in two samples that had additional genes when compared to culture-dependent PCR. The Carba-R assay could be useful for prioritizing further testing of environmental samples during health care-related outbreaks. IMPORTANCE Use of the Carba-R assay for detection of carbapenem-resistant Gram-negative organisms (CROs) can provide data for implementation of a rapid infection control response to minimize the spread of CROs in the health care setting. more...

OBJECTIVE To measure effects of oral Akkermansia muciniphila administration on systemic markers of gastrointestinal permeability and epithelial damage following antimicrobial administration in dogs. ANIMALS 8 healthy adult dogs. PROCEDURES Dogs were randomly assigned to receive either A muciniphila (109 cells/kg; n = 4) or vehicle (PBS solution; 4) for 6 days following metronidazole administration (12.5 mg/kg, PO, q 12 h for 7 d). After a 20-day washout period, the same dogs received the alternate treatment. After another washout period, experiments were repeated with amoxicillin-clavulanate (13.5 mg/kg, PO, q 12 h) instead of metronidazole. Fecal consistency was scored, a quantitative real-time PCR assay for A muciniphila in feces was performed, and plasma concentrations of cytokeratin-18, lipopolysaccharide, and glucagon-like peptides were measured by ELISA before (T0) and after (T1) antimicrobial administration and after administration of A muciniphila or vehicle (T2). RESULTS A muciniphila was detected in feces in 7 of 8 dogs after A muciniphila treatment at T2 (3/4 experiments) but not at T0 or T1. After metronidazole administration, mean change in plasma cytokeratin-18 concentration from T1 to T2 was significantly lower with vehicle than with A muciniphila treatment (−0.27 vs 2.4 ng/mL). Mean cytokeratin-18 concentration was lower at T1 than at T0 with amoxicillin-clavulanate. No other significant biomarker concentration changes were detected. Probiotic administration was not associated with changes in fecal scores. No adverse effects were attributed to A muciniphila treatment. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Detection of A muciniphila in feces suggested successful gastrointestinal transit following oral supplementation in dogs. Plasma cytokeratin-18 alterations suggested an effect on gastrointestinal epithelium. Further study is needed to investigate effects in dogs with naturally occurring gastrointestinal disease. more...

Carbapenem resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE) have emerged as a critical public health threat. Organisms expressing the Klebsiella pneumoniae carbapenemase (KPC) were first recognized in the US in the late 1990s and continue to be the predominant CRE genotype reported in clinical isolates. Strains harboring blaKPC alleles have been observed in multiple species of Enterobacteriaceae, including the Enterobacter cloacae complex. A major E. cloacae clone, Enterobacter xiangfangensis ST171, has emerged as an important cause of hospital associated infections (HAI) and has been shown to carry different alleles of KPC in the context of Tn4401, residing on plasmids of multiple incompatibility groups. While CRE are commonly isolated from infected humans, their recovery from animals has been rare, particularly from companion animals. In the US, only six CRE have been reported from companion animals, and one from livestock, none of which were blaKPC. This report describes two E. xiangfangensis sequence type ST171 isolates each with a large IncHI2 plasmid bearing blaKPC-4 recovered from dogs with infections at the Ohio State University Veterinary Medical Center. Our phylogenetic comparison of these canine isolates with available sequences from clinical human isolates of KPC-4 identified in ST171 suggest an epidemiologically significant clonal strain. more...

Companion animals are likely relevant in the transmission of antimicrobial-resistant bacteria. Enterobacter xiangfangensis sequence type 171 (ST171), a clone that has been implicated in clusters of infections in humans, was isolated from two dogs with clinical disease in Ohio. The canine isolates contained IncHI2 plasmids encoding bla(KPC-4). Whole-genome sequencing was used to put the canine isolates in phylogenetic context with available human ST171 sequences, as well as to characterize their bla(KPC-4) plasmids. more...

Antimicrobial-resistant bacteria represent an important concern impacting both veterinary medicine and public health. The rising prevalence of extended-spectrum beta-lactamase (ESBL), AmpC beta-lactamase, carbapenemase (CRE) and fluoroquinolone-resistant Enterobacteriaceae continually decreases the efficiency of clinically important antibiotics. Moreover, the potential for zoonotic transmission of antibiotic-resistant enteric bacteria increases the risk to public health. Our objective was to estimate the prevalence of specific antibiotic-resistant bacteria on human contact surfaces in various animal environments. Environmental surface samples were collected from companion animal shelters, private equine facilities, dairy farms, livestock auction markets and livestock areas of county fairs using electrostatic cloths. Samples were screened for Enterobacteriaceae expressing AmpC, ESBL, CRE or fluoroquinolone resistance using selective media. Livestock auction markets and county fairs had higher levels of bacteria expressing both cephalosporin and fluoroquinolone resistance than did equine, dairy, and companion animal environments. Equine facilities harboured more bacteria expressing cephalosporin resistance than companion animal shelters, but less fluoroquinolone resistance. The regular use of extended-spectrum cephalosporins in livestock populations could account for the increased levels of cephalosporin resistance in livestock environments compared to companion animal and equine facilities. Human surfaces, as well as shared human and animal surfaces, were contaminated with resistant bacteria regardless of species environment. Detecting these bacteria on common human contact surfaces suggests that the environment can serve as a reservoir for the zoonotic transmission of antibiotic-resistant bacteria and resistance genes. Identifying interventions to lower the prevalence of antibiotic-resistant bacteria in animal environments will protect both animal and public health. more...

We tested 772 cloacal swabs from wild ducks to estimate the prevalence of enteric bacteria resistant to extended-spectrum cephalosporins (ESC). We found a low prevalence of the important ESC resistance genotypes, blaCMY (5.7%) and blaCTX-M (0.3%). This suggests a minor role for wild ducks in the movement of resistant bacteria in the environment. more...

Curvularia spp. are globally distributed saprophytic fungi, classified in the literature as dematiaceous, or darkly pigmented fungi. These fungi have been increasingly recognized as causing cutaneous, ocular, respiratory, and central nervous system infections in humans, but have been infrequently documented as pathogens in the veterinary literature. A 5-yr-old male Chinese goral (Naemorhedus griseus) presented with bilateral fungal dermatitis of the pinnae, and subsequent pyogranulomatous rhinosinusitis. Clinical signs included epistaxis, mucosanguineous nasal discharge, and dyspnea. Sequential histologic examinations of cutaneous and nasal lesions revealed pyogranulomatous inflammation with extracellular and phagocytized nonpigmented yeasts. Fungal culture and polymerase chain reaction identified Curvularia sp. The absence of pigmentation in tissue in this case suggests that pigmentation may not be a consistent histologic finding for this fungus, emphasizing the importance of molecular identification to prevent misidentification. Despite intensive interventions in this goral, the disease progressed, and was ultimately fatal. more...

Carbapenemase-producing bacteria (CPB) are rare, multidrug resistant organisms most commonly associated with hospitalized patients. Metropolitan wastewater treatment plants (WWTP) treat wastewater from large geographic areas which include hospitals and may serve as epidemiologic reservoirs for the maintenance or expansion of CPB that originate from hospitals and are ultimately discharged in treated effluent. However, little is known about the potential impact of these WWTP CPB on the local surface water and their risk to the public health. In addition, CPB that are present in surface water may ultimately disseminate to intensively-managed animal agriculture facilities where there is potential for amplification by extended-spectrum cephalosporins. To better understand the role of WWTPs in the dissemination of CPB in surface waters, we obtained samples of treated effluent, and both upstream and downstream nearby surface water from 50 WWTPs throughout the US. A total of 30 CPB with clinically-relevant genotypes were recovered from 15 WWTPs (30%) of which 13 (50%) serviced large metropolitan areas and 2 (8.3%) represented small rural populations (P < 0.05). Recovery of CPB was lowest among WWTPs that utilized ultraviolet radiation for primary disinfection (12%), and higher (P = 0.11) for WWTPs that used chlorination (42%) or that did not utilize disinfection (50%). We did not detect a difference in CPB recovery by sampling site, although fewer CPB were detected in upstream (8%) compared to effluent (20%) and downstream (18%) samples. Our results indicate that WWTP effluent and nearby surface waters in the US are routinely contaminated with CPB with clinically important genotypes including those producing Klebsiella pneumoniae carbapenemase (KPC) and New Delhi metallo-beta-lactamase (NDM). This is a concern for both public health and animal agriculture because introduction of CPB into intensively managed livestock populations could lead to their amplification and foodborne dissemination. more...

Molecular diagnostic tests have augmented the way in which veterinary practitioners approach the diagnosis of infectious disease. The technical bases of these tests are explained in addition to the general clinical applications for which they are most aptly suited, as individual assays are best discussed in the context of their respective diseases. In this article, an emphasis is placed on validation of molecular tests so that practitioners can be educated consumers of molecular diagnostics. The relationships between disease prevalence and positive and negative predictive values are discussed. Finally, examples of the pitfalls of multiplex polymerase chain reaction testing are illustrated. more...

Background Staphylococcus pseudintermedius is the most common cause of bacterial skin infections in dogs. Meticillin-resistant infections have become more common and are challenging to treat. Blue light phototherapy may be an option for treating these infections. Hypothesis/Objectives The objective of this study was to measure the in vitro bactericidal activity of 465 nm blue light on meticillin-susceptible Staphylococcus pseudintermedius (MSSP) and meticillin-resistant Staphylococcus pseudintermedius (MRSP). We hypothesized that irradiation with blue light would kill MSSP and MRSP in a dose-dependent fashion in vitro as previously reported for meticillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). Methods In six replicate experiments, each strain [MSSP, n = 1; MRSP ST-71 (KM1381) n = 1; and MRSA (BAA-1680) n = 1] were cultivated on semisolid media, irradiated using a 465 nm blue light phototherapeutic device at the cumulative doses of 56.25, 112.5 and 225 J/cm2 and incubated overnight at 35°C. Controls were not irradiated. Colony counts (CC) were performed manually. Descriptive statistics were performed and treatment effects assessed using the Wilcoxon–Mann–Whitney rank-sum test. Bonferroni-corrected rank-sum tests were performed for post hoc analysis when significant differences were identified. Results There was a significant decrease in CC with blue light irradiation at all doses for MRSA (P = 0.0006) but not for MSSP (P = 0.131) or MRSP (P = 0.589). Conclusions Blue light phototherapy significantly reduced CC of MRSA, but not of MSSP or MRSP. The mechanism for the relative photosensitivity of the MRSA isolate is unknown, but is hypothesized to be due to an increased concentration of porphyrin in S. aureus relative to S. pseudintermedius, which would modulate blue light absorption. more...

Extended-spectrum β-lactamases (ESBLs) confer bacterial resistance to critically important antimicrobials, including extended-spectrum cephalosporins (ESCs). Livestock are important reservoirs for the zoonotic food-borne transmission of ESC-resistant enteric bacteria. Our aim is to describe the potential role of migratory and resident wild birds in the epidemiology of ESBL-mediated bacterial resistance on dairy farms. Using mist nets, we sampled wild migratory and resident birds either immediately adjacent to or 600 ft away from free-stall barns on three Ohio dairy farms during the 2014 and 2015 spring migrations. Individual swabs were used to obtain both a cloacal and external surface swab from each bird. Samples were inoculated into MacConkey broth containing cefotaxime then inoculated onto MacConkey agar with cefoxitin, cefepime, or meropenem to identify the bla more...

Carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE) present an urgent threat to public health. While use of carbapenem antimicrobials is restricted for food-producing animals, other β-lactams, such as ceftiofur, are used in livestock. This use may provide selection pressure favoring the amplification of carbapenem resistance, but this relationship has not been established. Previously unreported among U.S. livestock, plasmid-mediated CRE have been reported from livestock in Europe and Asia. In this study, environmental and fecal samples were collected from a 1,500-sow, U.S. farrow-to-finish operation during 4 visits over a 5-month period in 2015. Samples were screened using selective media for the presence of CRE, and the resulting carbapenemase-producing isolates were further characterized. Of 30 environmental samples collected from a nursery room on our initial visit, 2 (7%) samples yielded 3 isolates, 2 sequence type 218 (ST 218) Escherichia coli and 1 Proteus mirabilis , carrying the metallo-β-lactamase gene bla IMP-27 on IncQ1 plasmids. We recovered on our third visit 15 IMP-27-bearing isolates of multiple Enterobacteriaceae species from 11 of 24 (46%) environmental samples from 2 farrowing rooms. These isolates each also carried bla IMP-27 on IncQ1 plasmids. No CRE isolates were recovered from fecal swabs or samples in this study. As is common in U.S. swine production, piglets on this farm receive ceftiofur at birth, with males receiving a second dose at castration (≈day 6). This selection pressure may favor the dissemination of bla IMP-27 -bearing Enterobacteriaceae in this farrowing barn. The absence of this selection pressure in the nursery and finisher barns likely resulted in the loss of the ecological niche needed for maintenance of this carbapenem resistance gene. more...

Summary Objectives: To evaluate the in vitro anti -bacterial activity of a silver-impregnated coating against a biofilm-forming strain of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus pseud -intermedius (MRSP). Methods: A clinical MRSP isolate sourced from a failed canine knee implant was evaluated for biofilm production and used in the present study. Using a standard test method and a clinically approved titanium substrate, the antimicrobial activity of a novel silver plasma coating was determined at two times: five minutes after inoculation of the specimens (T0) and after 24 hours of incubation (T24). Scanning electron microscopy was used to evaluate the biofilm formation on specimens. Results: The tested clinical MRSP isolate was classified as a strong biofilm producer. The silver coating significantly reduced the MRSP growth more than four log steps compared to the non-coated specimens and showed more than 99.98% reduction in the number of colony forming units after 24 hours. Scanning electron microscopy images revealed that silver-coated surfaces did not manifest detectable biofilm, while biofilm formation was readily observed on the control specimens. Clinical significance: The silver coating exhibited excellent activity against the multi-drug resistant biofilm-forming MRSP isolate. The next stage of this work will involve testing in an animal model of orthopaedic infection. Positive results from animal studies would support the introduction of the silver plasma coating as a new strategy for preventing implant contamination, biofilm formation, and surgical infection in dogs undergoing orthopaedic surgery.Supplementary Material for this paper is available online at: http://dx.doi.org/10.3415/VCOT-15-08-0134 more...

Objective To document whether presumptive bacterial translocation (PBT) occurs in horses with small intestinal strangulation (SIS). Design Prospective clinical cohort study. Setting University tertiary care facility. Animals Thirty-six adult horses with SIS (clinical cases) and 10 adult horses without gastrointestinal disease (control cases). Interventions Sterile collection and bacterial culture of samples from peripheral venous blood, mesenteric venous blood, mesenteric lymphatic tissue, and intestinal aspirates from horses with SIS and control horses without gastrointestinal disease. Measurements and Main Results Five of 36 (13.8%) horses with SIS had at least 1 sample yield a positive result. Shorter SIS bowel segments were more likely to yield a positive culture result. (P < 0.01). Two of 10 of control horses had positive culture results with different bacterial species identified compared to horses with SIS. Antimicrobial usage did not influence bacterial culture status (P = 0.31). There were no differences between culture-positive and culture-negative horses with SIS regarding admission, clinical, or clinicopathologic variables. Conclusions PBT occurs in normal horses and in horses with SIS. Bacterial genera differed between groups. A low incidence of PBT occurs in horses with SIS suggesting postoperative morbidity in some cases may be due to other factors. more...

A 5-year-old spayed female diabetic mixed-breed dog underwent phacoemulsification and intraocular lens implantation to correct bilateral hypermature cataracts. Two months postsurgery, the patient presented with ulcerative keratitis and multifocal stromal abscessation OD, which was controlled, but never resolved, with topical fluoroquinolone therapy. The patient re-presented 2 months later with a new, raised, white gritty corneal opacity associated with hyperemia, chemosis, and blepharospasm OD. Cytology of the right cornea revealed filamentous bacteria, suggestive of Actinomyces spp. Actinomyces bowdenii was subsequently isolated in pure culture and identified via 16s rDNA sequencing. Actinomyces bowdenii has never before been described as a cause of ocular infection. An immunosuppressed corneal environment likely contributed to this opportunistic Actinomycosis. The infection was not controlled with fluoroquinolone therapy, and the isolate, in vitro, was resistant to three fluoroquinolones (ciprofloxacin, ofloxacin, and levofloxacin), which also has not been previously reported for this species of Actinomyces. A superficial keratectomy with conjunctival graft was employed to successfully manage the infection. more...

The purpose of this study was to determine the frequency of vertical transmission of Mycoplasma haemolamae from dam to cria, whether colostral transmission of M. haemolamae occurs and provide preliminary data on colostral M. haemolamae specific antibody from pregnant alpacas on a farm with known prevalence of infection. M. haemolamae specific PCR was performed on blood and colostrum from pregnant alpacas and their cria ( n = 52 pairs). Indirect fluorescent antibody testing was performed on a subset ( n = 43) of the colostrum samples. Total immunoglobulin concentrations of colostrum and cria sera and M. haemolamae specific IgG (prior to and after ingesting colostrum) were determined by turbidometric immunoassay and indirect fluorescence antibody testing respectively. Sixteen of 52 dams (30.7%) pre-partum and one of 52 cria post-partum (1.9%; prior to ingesting colostrum) were PCR positive for M. haemolamae , while 36/52 dams (69%) and 51/52 cria (98%) tested negative for M. haemolamae by PCR. All 43 colostrum samples and 52 of 52 post-colostrum cria blood samples (100%) were negative by PCR. The dam giving birth to the M. haemolamae PCR positive cria was PCR negative. Statistically, it was no more likely for a PCR positive dam to give birth to a M. haemolamae , PCR positive cria (prior to colostrum ingestion) than a PCR negative dam ( p = 0.3077). M. haemolamae specific IgG was present in 22 of 43 (51%) of colostrum samples at a 1:10 dilution and 14 of 22 (64%) at a 1:100 dilution. There was no relationship between the PCR status of the dam and whether or not M. haemolamae specific antibodies were present in colostrum. Among the animals tested, in utero transmission of M. haemolamae was rare (1/52 pre-colostral alpaca cria), and all colostrum samples were negative for M. haemolamae by PCR. These data indicate that colostrum from positive dams is unlikely to harbor this parasite and therefore does not serve as a source of infection to newborn cria. Colostrum derived from both PCR positive and negative dams contained M. haemolamae specific antibodies. Our findings suggest that M. haemolamae specific antibodies may play a role in immunity to this hemoparasite; however, challenge studies are necessary to fully evaluate the role of M. haemolamae specific antibodies. Furthermore, antibody prevalence and detectable titers may provide different estimates than those available from current PCR based prevalence studies. Our findings also suggest that M. haemolamae isolates from geographically distinct regions do not differ significantly from each other. more...

bla CTX-M beta-lactamases confer resistance to critically important cephalosporin drugs. Recovered from both hospital- and community-acquired infections, bla CTX-M was first reported in U.S. livestock in 2010. It has been hypothesized that veterinary use of cephalosporins in livestock populations may lead to the dissemination of beta-lactamase-encoding genes. Therefore, our objectives were to estimate the frequency and distribution of coliform bacteria harboring bla CTX-M in the fecal flora of Ohio dairy cattle populations. In addition, we characterized the CTX-M alleles carried by the isolates, their plasmidic contexts, and the genetic diversity of the bacterial isolates themselves. We also evaluated the association between ceftiofur use and the likelihood of recovering cephalosporinase-producing bacteria. Thirty fresh fecal samples and owner-reported ceftiofur use data were collected from each of 25 Ohio dairy farms. Fecal samples ( n = 747) yielded 70 bla CTX-M -positive Escherichia coli isolates from 5/25 herds, 715 bla CMY-2 E. coli isolates from 25/25 herds, and 274 Salmonella spp. from 20/25 herds. The within-herd prevalence among bla CTX-M -positive herds ranged from 3.3 to 100% of samples. Multiple pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) patterns, plasmid replicon types, and CTX-M genes were detected. Plasmids with CTX-M-1, -15, and -14 alleles were clonal by restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) within herds, and specific plasmid incompatibility group markers were consistently associated with each bla CTX-M allele. PFGE of total bacterial DNA showed similar within-herd clustering, with the exception of one herd, which revealed at least 6 different PFGE signatures. We were unable to detect an association between owner-reported ceftiofur use and the probability of recovering E. coli carrying bla CTX-M or bla CMY-2 . more...

Background Uncomplicated urinary tract infections (UTI) in dogs usually are treated with antimicrobial drugs for 10–14 days. Shorter duration antimicrobial regimens have been evaluated in human patients. Hypothesis A high dose short duration (HDSD) enrofloxacin protocol administered to dogs with uncomplicated UTI will not be inferior to a 14-day treatment regimen with amoxicillin-clavulanic acid. Animals Client-owned adult, otherwise healthy dogs with aerobic bacterial urine culture yielding ≥103 CFU/mL of bacteria after cystocentesis. Methods Prospective, multicenter, controlled, randomized blinded clinical trial. Enrolled dogs were randomized to group 1 (enrofloxacin 18–20 mg/kg PO q24h for 3 days) or group 2 (amoxicillin-clavulanic acid 13.75–25 mg/kg PO q12h for 14 days). Urine cultures were obtained at days 0, 10, and 21. Microbiologic and clinical cure rates were evaluated 7 days after antimicrobial treatment was discontinued. Lower urinary tract signs and adverse events also were recorded. Results There were 35 dogs in group 1 and 33 in group 2. The microbiologic cure rate was 77.1 and 81.2% for groups 1 and 2, respectively. The clinical cure rate was 88.6 and 87.9% for groups 1 and 2, respectively. Cure rates between groups did not differ according to the selected margin of noninferiority. Conclusions and Clinical Importance HDSD enrofloxacin treatment was not inferior to a conventional amoxicillin-clavulanic acid protocol for the treatment of uncomplicated bacterial UTI in dogs. Further research is warranted to determine if this protocol will positively impact owner compliance and decrease the emergence of antimicrobial resistance. more...

Domestic cats have several features that make them ideal vehicles for interspecies transmission of influenza viruses; however, they have been largely overlooked as potential reservoirs or bridging hosts. In this study, we conducted serological surveillance to assess the prevalence of novel pandemic H1N1 as well as seasonal human influenza virus infections in domestic cats in Ohio. Four hundred serum samples collected from domestic cats (September 2009 to September 2010) were tested using a hemagglutination inhibition (HI) test. The seroprevalences of pandemic H1N1, seasonal H1N1, and H3N2 were 22.5%, 33%, and 43.5%, respectively. In addition, a significant association between clinical feline respiratory disease and influenza virus infection was documented. In this sample of cats, the prevalence of pandemic H1N1 did not follow the seasonality pattern of seasonal H1N1 or H3N2 influenza, similar to observations in humans. Pandemic H1N1 seroprevalence did not vary in relation to ambient temperature changes, while the seroprevalence of seasonal H3N2 and H1N1 influenza viruses increased with the decline of ambient temperature. Our results highlight the high prevalence of influenza virus infection in domestic cats, a seasonality pattern of influenza virus infection comparable to that in humans, and an association of infection with clinical respiratory disease. more...

Although canine ocular onchocerciasis has been well described as an emerging pathogen of dogs in Europe and North America over the past 20 years, there are no previous reports of feline ocular onchocerciasis. This report details the clinical, histopathologic, and molecular diagnosis of two domestic short hair cats residing in the United States infected with Onchocerca lupi causing episcleritis and orbital cellulitis. The results of this report suggest that O. lupi is a newly recognized disease of domestic cats. more...