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To determine the diagnostic performance of computed tomographic arthrography (CTA) and 3 Tesla magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for detecting artificial meniscal, meniscotibial ligament (MTL) lesions and cruciate ligament (CL) lesions in horses.Ex vivo controlled laboratory study.Nineteen stifles from adult horses.Stablike defects (n = 84) (16 mm long, 10 mm deep) were created in the menisci (n = 35), CLs (n = 24), and MTLs (n = 25) via arthroscopy prior to MRI and CTA (80 mL contrast at 85 mg/mL per joint). Two radiologists, unaware of the lesions, reached a consensus regarding the presence of lesions, based on 2 reviews of each study. Sensitivity and specificity of MRI and CTA were determined using arthroscopy as a reference and compared with McNemar's tests.The sensitivity and specificity of MRI (41% and 86% respectively) and CTA (32% and 90% respectively) did not differ (P = .65). The sensitivity (MRI: 24%-50%; CTA:19%-40%) and specificity (MRI: 75%-92%; CTA 75%-100%) of imaging modalities did not differ when detecting lesions of the menisci, MTLs, and CLs (P = .1-1.0). The highest sensitivities were achieved when MTLs were evaluated with MRI (50%) and CLs with both modalities (40%).The diagnostic performance of CTA was comparable with that of MRI, with a low to moderate sensitivity and high specificity.Computed tomographic arthrography should be considered as an adjunct to diagnose CL injuries. This is important for equine clinicians, as the CL cannot be visualized adequately using basic imaging techniques preoperatively.

This paper reviews the technique used for thoracic -ultrasonography of the bovine lower respiratory tract and the ultrasonographic findings in calves with -bronchopneumonia. Studies that compare the results of auscultation with those of ultrasonography and postmortem examination are included as are studies that examine the relationship between ultrasonographic findings and bacterial lung infection and prognosis. Lesions associated with bronchopneumonia, pleuropneumonia, pneumothorax and lung abscesses are -easily imaged ultrasonographically and characterised in calves.Die vorliegende Arbeit gibt einen Überblick über die sonographische Untersuchung der Lunge des Kalbes sowie die bei verschiedenen Erkrankungen des unteren Atemapparats bei Kälbern sonographisch möglichen Befunde. Im Weiteren werden die Untersuchungen, welche die Auskultations- und Ultraschallbefunde sowie die Ultraschall- und die pathologisch-anatomischen Befunde miteinander vergleichen, dargestellt. Schliesslich werden die Arbeiten besprochen, welche die Be­ziehungen zwischen Infektionen und den Ultraschallbefunden sowie die Beziehungen zwischen den Ultraschallbefunden und der Prognose untersuchen. Zusammenfassend erlaubt die Ultraschalluntersuchung der Lunge, die bei Kälbern mit Bronchopneumonie, Pleuropneumonie, Pneumothorax und Lungenabszessen vorhandenen Befunde zu erfassen und zu beschreiben sowie Hinweise auf die Prognose und die pathologisch-anatomischen Befunde zu geben.Cet article passe en revue la technique utilisée pour l’échographie des voies respiratoires inférieures des bovins et les résultats de l’échographie chez les veaux atteints de bronchopneumonie. Les études qui comparent les résultats de l’auscultation à ceux de l’échographie et de l’examen post mortem sont incluses, tout comme les études qui étudient la relation entre les résultats de l’échographie et l’infection pulmonaire bactérienne ainsi que le pronostic. Les lésions associées à la bronchopneumonie, à la pleuropneumonie, au pneumothorax et aux abcès pulmonaires sont facilement imagées par échographie et caractérisées chez les veaux.Il presente studio fornisce una panoramica dell’esame ecografico dei polmoni del vitello e dei risultati ecografici possibili nel caso di varie malattie dell’apparato respiratorio inferiore. Inoltre, vengono esposte le ricerche che mettono a confronto i risultati dell’auscultazione e degli ultrasuoni, nonché gli ultrasuoni e i risultati patologico-anatomici. Infine, vengono discussi gli studi che esplorano la relazione tra infezioni e risultati degli ultrasuoni e la relazione tra risultati degli ultrasuoni e prognosi. In sintesi, l’esame ecografico dei polmoni permette di individuare e descrivere i reperti riscontrati nei vitelli affetti da broncopolmonite, pleuropolmonite, pneumotorace e ascessi polmonari, oltre a fornire informazioni sulla prognosi e sui reperti patologico-anatomici.

This study reports the use of parathyroid hormone fragment peptide 1‐34 (PTH1‐34) cross‐linked to a hydrogel in a fibrin base for the treatment of subchondral cyst‐like lesions (SCLs). The objectives were to determine the clinical and radiographic outcome of 28 horses with lameness attributable to one or two SCLs treated locally with one of three different concentrations of PTH1‐34 and to identify which concentration produces the best results. Twenty‐eight horses (34 SCLs) were treated surgically by debriding the content of the SCL and injecting different concentrations (0.1, 0.4, or 1 mg/mL) of PTH1‐34 in a fibrin hydrogel into the cavity. Treatment was considered successful if the horse was sound 12 months after treatment. The mean age of the horses was 7.2 years. Treatment was successful in 22 (78.6%) horses and improved the radiographic appearance of 27 (79.4%) SCLs. The outcome was not affected by age of the horse or by the number of SCLs (1 or 2) per horse. PTH1‐34 in a fibrin hydrogel administered into the SCL after surgical debridement of the lesion appears to be an effective treatment for horses with one or two SCLs. A PTH1‐34 concentration of 0.4 mg/mL may be slightly superior to concentrations of 0.1 and 1.0 mg/mL in resolving SCLs.

An orangutan (Pongo abelii) presented with chronic respiratory problems. Cytological evaluation of the bronchoalveolar lavage fluids revealed macrophages with well-circumscribed intracytoplasmic clear vacuoles and lipid droplets in the background, confirmed by Oil Red O staining. The findings were indicative of lipoid pneumonia. This is the first report of lipoid pneumonia in an orangutan.

The aim of this study was to give an overview of the current literature on equine haemothorax, as well as to analyse cases with this problem that were presented to the Equine Internal Medicine Clinic of the Vetsuisse-Faculty of the University of Zurich between 2005 and 2017. 13 cases met the inclusion criteria, which were a clinical diagnosis of the haemothorax by ultrasound alone or by a combination of ultrasound and thoracocentesis. Four mares and nine geldings of a variety of breeds were included in the study. The average age was 19.92 years (standard deviation ± 3.1). The findings of the clinical examination as well as the findings of blood tests, radiographic, ultrasonographic and cytological examinations of the thoracic fluid as well as the performed therapy were analysed in this study. The following case numbers do not always correspond to 13 patients since not all examinations were performed on all horses. The case histories were appearance of clinical signs during free movement, riding or after great exertion (6/13), unspecific anamnesis (4/13), trauma (2/13) and lung biopsy (1/13). The most common clinical signs were tachypnoea (13/13), abnormal lung auscultation (11/11), altered behaviour (12/13), forced breathing or dyspnoea (8/9), tachycardia (11/13), sweaty body surface (5/9), bilateral epistaxis (5/10) and prolonged capillary refill time (5/12). The general condition was classified as moderate to severely impaired (8/13) and mildly impaired (5/13). 8/12 patients showed signs of dehydration. Blood analysis showed leucocytosis (6/9), thrombocytopenia (4/10), anemia (3/13), hyperglycaemia (8/8), hypocalcaemia (7/8), hyponatremia (7/9), hyperlactatemia (6/8), elevated Creatinin (4/8), elevated creatine kinase (4/8) and hypoproteinemia (6/13). Arterial blood gas analysis revealed decreased p02 (8/8). Thoracic radiographs revealed soft-tissue opaque material ventrally in the thorax (10/10) with a variety of lung patterns. Ultrasonographically, free fluid with a hypo- to hyperechogenic corpuscular character was visible in the pleural cavity (13/13). Thoracocentesis was performed in 8/13 cases and the thoracic fluid was diagnosed as blood. The cause of the haemothorax could be identified clinically in three cases (lung biopsy, rib fractures, diaphragmatic hernia). Treatment included fluid therapy with cristalloid (10/13) and colloid (3/13) infusions as well as antimicrobial (11/13) and analgetic (12/13) medication. In some cases, tranexamic acid (6/13), formalin (2/13) and furosemide (1/13) were administered. Whole blood (5/13) and plasma transfusions (1/13) as well as thoracic drainages (4/13) were performed once or repeatedly if necessary. The mean duration of stay at the clinic was 5 (0-9) days. Eight horses were euthanized either because of a sudden rapid deterioration of the general condition (3/8), a lack of response to treatment (3/8) or right after diagnosis because of poor prognosis (2/8), which results in a short-term survival rate (percentage of horses that left the clinic alive) of 38%. The long-term survival rate (surviving horses in July 2016, six months to ten years and eleven months after leaving the clinic) was 75%. Suspected reasons for haemothorax in the surviving patients were idiopathic bleeding (2/5) as well as bleeding after a lung biopsy, great exertion or trauma (each 1/5). The pathologic diagnoses of the euthanized horses were lung rupture (2/7), lung bleeding (2/7), multiple lung lacerations caused by rib fractures, mesenchymal neoplasia of the thorax as well as a diaphragmatic hernia (each 1/7). This retrospective study elucidates clinical signs and causes as well as diagnoses, therapy and outcome in the clinic for equine haemothorax. © 2018 Hippiatrika Verlagsgesellschaf. All rights reserved.

Objective To compare airway management during induction of anaesthesia, spontaneous ventilation (SV) and controlled mechanical ventilation (CMV), using an endotracheal tube (ETT), laryngeal mask (LM), rabbit-specific supraglottic airway device (v-gel) or facemask (FM). Study design Prospective randomized crossover experiment. Animals Ten New Zealand White rabbits. Methods After premedication, rabbits were randomly allocated to four groups: 1) ETT; 2) LM; 3) v-gel or 4) FM. The required dose of propofol, duration and number of attempts to place an airway device and leakage during SV and CMV at different peak inspiratory pressures (6, 10, 12, 14 and 16 cmH2O) were recorded. Computed tomography (CT) of the head, neck and abdomen were performed before and after CMV. Results Significantly less propofol and time [2.0 ± 0.5 mg kg−1, 82 ± 34 seconds, p 25% of the tidal volume occurred at the lowest pressure in FM [median (range), 6 (6–8) cmH2O], which was significantly lower than with v-gel [16 (6–no leak at 16) cmH2O], LM [>16 (6–no leak at 16)] or ETT [>16 (no leak at 16) cmH2O] (p Conclusions and clinical relevance The v-gel is a practical alternative to LM and ETT for airway management and CMV, but can compress the larynx. The FM is easily placed, but significant leakage occurs during CMV.

Canine hip dysplasia (CHD) is a genetic disease, modulated by epigenetic and environmental factors. To decrease the prevalence of CHD, the hip joints of many pure breed dogs are radiographed to identify dysplastic dogs not qualified for breeding. It has been shown that both, prevalence and severity of CHD may be reduced on the basis of phenotypic i.e. radiographic selection of breeding animals. The method has been used in many countries for over 50 years. In the present study, severity and prevalence of CHD in five common large breeds in Switzerland were evaluated since 1995. Both, prevalence and severity of CHD dropped in each breed between the periods 1995-1999 and 2010-2016. The prevalence decreased in Golden Retrievers from 25% to 9% and in Labrador Retrievers from 16% to 3%, respectively. In the Flat-Coated Retriever, prevalence in general was low, decreasing from 6% to 3%. In the Bernese mountain dog and the German shepherd dog, a decrease from 21% to 12% and from 46% to 18%, respectively, was observed. However, the rather low overall rate of radiographed dogs (Retrievers: 11% to 18%, Bernese Mountain dogs: 23% and German Shepherd dogs: 31%) does not allow to draw reliable conclusions regarding the true prevalence of CHD for the entire population of these breeds in Switzerland.

A 17-month-old Warmblood filly was referred to our clinic for evaluation of congenital facial nerve (FN) paralysis. Clinical examination revealed a right-sided facial paralysis with mild masticatory muscle atrophy, mild dysphagia and exposure keratitis. Apart from the FN deficits, neurological examination of the remaining cranial nerves showed no abnormalities. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) examination using a 3.0 Tesla scanner showed that in comparison to the left FN, the intracranial section of the right FN between the pons and internal acoustic canal was thinner, whereas it appeared indistinct and thickened within the internal acoustic canal and facial canal. Signs of meningitis or encephalitis were not present on MRI. Cerebrospinal fluid analysis showed mild pleocytosis. The owner of the filly requested euthanasia due to the guarded prognosis. At necropsy, the intracranial section of the right FN was macroscopically thinner than the left side and within the facial canal, a 5 mm tissue stump could be identified with an absent extracranial part of the right FN. Histological examination of the brain stem showed different architecture of the left and right motor nuclei of the FN: in the left nucleus, motor neurons of a normal size and well stainable Nissl bodies were present, whereas in the right nucleus, neurons with Nissl bodies were decreased in number and size. Further, a cytoplasmic rich cell population with a nucleus size compatible with normal neurons was present. These cells were suspected to be atrophic neurons. The tissue stump within the facial canal was histologically identified as connective tissue. Unilateral malformation of the FN has not previously been described in the horse. This filly showed a right-sided, intracranial hypoplasia accompanied by an extracranial aplasia of the FN causing complete, congenital facial nerve paralysis, which corresponded to a difference in the architecture of the affected motor nucleus of the FN.

Osteochondrosis (OC) is common in large-breed dogs. According to the breeding guidelines of the Swiss kennel clubs, the shoulder joints are included in the radiographic screening for joint diseases in the Greater Swiss Mountain dog (GSMD) and the Border Collie (BC) since 1993 and 2003, respectively. The aim of this study was to estimate the overall prevalence of humeral head OC in these 2 breeds in Switzerland based on the data of the Swiss National Dysplasia Committees. All radiographs were re-evaluated to assess single radiographic changes. From 1993 and 2003, accordingly, until 2013, the overall prevalence was 14% for the GSMD and 8% for the BC, respectively. Affected joints showed a focally reduced opacity or a flattened/indented contour of the caudal section of the humeral head. Articular flaps were only seen occasionally. Degenerative joint disease was significantly more common in OC affected joints (GSMD: 32%; BC: 20%) than in joints without OC. The present study is the first report on the prevalence of humeral head OC in a large cohort of GSMD and the BC over a long study period. In comparison to other breeds, the herein reported prevalences are in the mid to upper range. Results of the present study should alert veterinarians to the disease in these breeds and may serve as a starting point for further epidemiological and genetic studies.Osteochondrose (OC) ist eine häufige Erkrankung bei grossen Hunderassen. Für eine Zuchtzulassung in der Schweiz müssen beim Grossen Schweizer Sennenhund (GSSH) seit 1993 und beim Border Collie (BC) seit 2003 die Schultergelenke obligatorisch auf OC geröntgt werden. Das Ziel dieser Studie war es, die Prävalenz von OC im Schultergelenk bei diesen beiden Rassen in der Schweiz zu bestimmen. Die Grundlage bildeten die Daten der schweizerischen Dysplasie-Kommissionen. Alle Röntgenbilder wurden von den Autoren nochmals ausgewertet, um die diversen Röntgenveränderungen zu erfassen. Die Gesamt-Prävalenz von Schulter-OC betrug für den GSSH 14% von 1993 bis 2013, und 8% für den BC während der Jahre 2003 bis 2013. Als positive OC-Fälle wurden eine fokal verminderte Röntgendichte oder eine abgeflachte bzw. eine eingedellte Form des Humerskopfes gewertet. Ein mineralisierter Flap wurde nur gelegentlich gesehen. Arthrose wurde signifikant häufiger bei OC-betroffenen Gelenken gefunden (GSSH: 32%; BC: 20%). Die vorliegende Studie berichtet als erste Publikation über die Prävalenz der Schultergelenk-OC in den beiden untersuchten Rassen über einen längeren Zeitraum und bei einer grossen Anzahl Tiere. Die bestimmten Prävalenzen liegen im Vergleich zu anderen Rassen im mittleren bis oberen Bereich. Die Ergebnisse der vorliegenden Studie sollen die Tierärzteschaft auf dieses Krankheitsbild bei den beiden Rassen aufmerksam machen und können als Ausganspunkt für weiterführende epidemiologische und genetische Studien dienen.L’ostéochondrose (OC) est fréquente chez les chiens de grande race. Conformément aux prescriptions d’élevage des clubs cynologiques suisses, l’articulation de l’épaule est incluse dans le dépistage radiologique des affections articulaires chez le Grand bouvier suisse (GBS) et le Border Collie (BC) et ceci depuis 1993 respectivement 2003. Le but de la présente étude était d’estimer la prévalence de l‘OC de la tête humérale chez ces deux races en Suisse, sur la base des données des commissions nationales suisses de dysplasie. Toutes les radiographies ont été réévaluées pour repérer des altérations radiologiques isolées. Depuis 1993 respectivement 2003 jusqu’en 2013, la prévalence était de 14% chez le GBC et de 8% chez le BC. Les articulations affectées montraient une opacité localement réduite ou un contour aplati/ dentelé de la partie caudale de la tête humérale. Des souris articulaires n’étaient constatées qu’occasionnellement. Les affections articulaires dégénératives étaient significativement plus fréquentes sur les articulations affectées d’OC que sur les autres (GBS: 32%; BC: 20%). La présente étude rapporte pour la première fois la prévalence de l’OC de la tête humérale sur une large cohorte de GBS et de BC sur une longue période. En comparaison avec d’autres races, les prévalences constatées se situent entre la moyenne et le niveau supérieur. Les résultats de cette étude doivent alerter les vétérinaires au sujet de cette affection chez ces races et peut server de pont de départ pour de futures recherches épidémiologiques et génétiques.L’osteocondrosi (OC) è comune nei cani di grossa taglia. Secondo le linee guida della Società cinologica Svizzera, già dal 1993 risp. 2003, le articolazioni della spalla sono comprese nello screening radiografico per le malattie articolari nei cani di razza Greater Swiss Mountain (GSM) e Border Collie (BC). Lo scopo di questo studio, è di stimare, nelle 2 razze in Svizzera, la prevalenza complessiva di OC della testa omerale sulla base dei dati raccolti dal Comitato nazionale svizzero sulla displasia. Tutte le radiografie sono state rivalutate per stimare singoli cambiamenti radiografici. Dal 1993 e 2003, di conseguenza, e fino al 2013, la prevalenza complessiva era rispettivamente del 14% per i cani di razza GSM e dell’8% per quelli di razza BC. Le articolazioni colpite mostravano una ridotta opacità focale oppure un contorno appiattito/dentellato della sezione caudale della testa omerale. Occasionalmente si sono rilevati lembi articolari. La malattia degenerativa delle articolazioni era più significativamente comune in quelle affette da OC (GSM: 32%; BC: 20%) rispetto alle articolazioni senza OC. Il presente studio è il primo resoconto sulla prevalenza dell’OC della testa omerale di un ampio gruppo di cani di razza GSM e BC protratto su un lungo periodo. Paragonando con altre razze, la prevalenza qui riportata si situava tra la media e la media superiore. I risultati di questo studio dovrebbero rendere attenti i veterinari sulla malattia in queste razze e servire come punto di partenza per ulteriori studi epidemiologici e genetici.

Only sparse anatomic and morphometric information exists concerning the equine acoustic organ. The aim of the present study was, therefore, to describe the computed tomographic (CT) anatomy and determine the CT dimensions of the osseous external ear canal (OEEC), tympanic membrane (TM), and tympanic bulla (TB) in clinically normal horses. Computed tomography of the head was performed in 23 horses, presented for reasons unrelated to the auditory organ, with a 4-slice (group 1) or a 40-slice (group 2) CT scanner, respectively. The following measurements of the OEEC were performed: volume, dorsal, ventral and central length, halfway of central length, and inner diameter at four different locations. Length of the TM, width of the hypotympanon and the largest width and height of the external acoustic porus (EAP), and the TB were also recorded. The OEEC in all ears was of an oval, truncated cone shape running in a dorsolateral to medioventral direction. The TM coursed at a flat angle from dorsolateral to medioventral and had a wave-like appearance on transverse CT images. Significantly lower width and height of the EAP, inner diameter of the OECC at its narrowest point, and OEEC volume were found in group 1. A significant positive correlation between OEEC volume and head length or body weight, respectively, was found in group 2. Results of the present study may serve as reference values and aid the diagnosis of aural abnormalities and disease conditions. Moreover, they provide a basis for the adjustment of audiometric testing devices to horses.

BACKGROUND: Hypotension (HT) and/or hypocapnia (HC) are frequent complications occurring during pediatric anesthesia and may cause cerebral injury in the developing brain. AIM: The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of HT and/or HC on perfusion and metabolism in the developing brain. METHODS: Twenty-eight piglets were randomly allocated to four groups: control (C), HT, HC, and hypotension and hyocapnia (HTC). Anesthesia was induced and maintained using sevoflurane. Fentanyl was added for instrumentation. Piglets were fully monitored and their lungs were artificially ventilated. Before treatment, conventional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), dynamic susceptibility-contrast-enhanced T2*-weighted MRI (DSC-MRI), and single voxel proton MR spectroscopy (1 H MRS) were performed. Hypotension (mean arterial blood pressure: 30 ± 3 mmHg) was induced by blood withdrawal and nitroprusside infusion, and hyperventilation was used to induce HC (PaCO2 : 2.7-3.3 kPa). 1 H MRS and DSC-MRI were repeated immediately once treatment goals were achieved and 120 min later. Radiologists were blinded to the groups. DSCI-MRI and 1 H MRS analyses were performed in the thalamus, occipital and parietal lobe, hippocampus, and watershed areas. RESULTS: In comparison to C, mean time to peak (TTP) increased with HTC in all brain areas as assessed with DSC-MRI (n = 26). Using 1 H MRS, a significant decrease in N-acetyl aspartate, choline, and myoinositol, as well as an increase in glutamine-glutamate complex (Glx) were detected independent of group. Compared to C, changes were more pronounced for Glx (due to an increase in glutamate) and myoinositol with HTC, for N-acetyl aspartate with HT, and for Glx with HC. No lactate signal was present. CONCLUSIONS: The combination of HT and HC during sevoflurane anesthesia resulted in alteration of cerebral perfusion with signs of neuronal dysfunction and early neuronal ischemia. HT and HC alone also resulted in signs of metabolic disturbances despite the absence of detectable cerebral perfusion alterations.

Published descriptions of nonseptic arthritis of the equine temporomandibular joint (TMJ) are rare and large studies investigating variations in the TMJ for asymptomatic horses are lacking. The objectives of this cross-sectional, retrospective, multi-institutional study were to describe anatomical variations in the TMJ detected using computed tomography (CT) in an equid population asymptomatic for TMJ disease and determine whether these variations were associated with patient signalment, reason for CT examination, or CT slice width. Medical records at eight hospitals were searched for horses that had head/neck CT scans and no clinical signs of TMJ disease. Age, breed, sex, clinical presentation, and CT slice width data were recorded. Alterations in CT contour and density of the mandibular condyles, mandibular fossae, and TMJ intra-articular discs were described for each horse. Generalized logistic regression was used to test associations between anatomical variations and horse age. A total of 1018 horses were sampled. Anatomical variations were found in TMJ CT images for 40% of horses and 29% of joints. These were dichotomous with regard to age. Horses

Traumatic reticuloperitonitis (TRP) in cattle is caused by ingested nails, pieces of wire, and other nonmetallic materials that injure the reticular wall. Clinical signs of acute TRP may include anorexia, fever, drop in milk production, rumen atony and tympany, abdominal pain, an arched back, a tucked up and "guarded" abdomen and spontaneous grunting, but may be obscure or absent in chronic cases. Haematological findings alone are not diagnostic, but total and differential white blood cell counts, the concentration of fibrinogen and total protein and the glutaraldehyde coagulation time may indicate inflammation associated with TRP. The clinical examination is aimed at eliciting a grunt in response to foreign body tests such as back grip, pole test or pain percussion. Inflammatory changes of the reticulum and adjacent organs and impairment of reticular motility are characteristic features of TRP and can be detected via ultrasonography. Radiography is the technique of choice for the visualisation of metallic foreign bodies and for monitoring the efficacy of a magnet. Treatment may be conservative or surgical, but in most cases initial treatment is conservative with administration of a magnet and antibiotics. If the cow fails to respond to medical treatment, surgical treatment is the next option other than euthanasia and ideally is carried out after imaging of the reticulum. If this is not feasible, a second magnet and continuation of antibiotic treatment is recommended.

Background and Purpose:: The level of hypoxia in primary tumors has been described to influence response to treatment. The aim of the present study was to investigate the impact of pretreatment oxygen level measurements in spontaneous canine tumors on treatment outcome. Materials and Methods:: Data of pretreatment tumor oxygenation status and local tumor response after primary radiation therapy in a group of spontaneously occurring tumors in dogs (n = 52) was collected. Radiation therapy was given with curative (14-17 × 3-3.5 Gy) or palliative intent (3 × 8 Gy or 4-5 × 6 Gy). Progression-free interval and overall survival were correlated to polarographically measured tumor oxygenation status. Results:: In the curatively irradiated group, tumors with median pO2 values ≤ 10 mmHg tended to have shorter median progression- free interval compared to better oxygenated tumors (246 vs. 739 days). The same trend could be shown for overall survival (330 vs. 745 days), indicating a cutoff value in this region. In the group treated with lower doses of radiation, the level of oxygen was no longer found to be of prognostic value; however, in this group hemoglobin had a significant impact on outcome. Conclusion:: In curatively irradiated spontaneous canine tumors, tumor hypoxia was found to be a prognostic indicator, independent of tumor histologies and volume

Background: Hypotension is common in anaesthetised children, and its impact on cerebral oxygenation is unknown. The goal of the present study was to investigate the effects of moderate systemic arterial hypotension (mHT) and severe hypotension (sHT) on cerebral perfusion and brain tissue oxygenation in piglets. Methods: Twenty-seven anaesthetised piglets were randomly allocated to a control group, mHT group, or sHT group. Cerebral monitoring comprised a tissue oxygen partial pressure (PtO 2) and laser Doppler (LD) perfusion probe advanced into the brain tissue, and a near-infrared spectroscopy sensor placed over the skin measuring regional oxygen saturation (rSO2). Arterial hypotension was induced by blood withdrawal and i.v. nitroprusside infusion [target MAP: 35–38 (mHT) and 27–30 (sHT) mm Hg]. Data were analysed at baseline, and every 20 min during and after treatment. Results: Compared with control, PtO 2 decreased equally with mHT and sHT [mean (SD) after 60 min: control: 17.1 (6.4); mHT: 6.4 (3.6); sHT: 7.2 (4.3) mm Hg]. No differences between groups were detected for rSO2 and LD during treatment. However, in the sHT group, rSO2 increased after restoring normotension [from 49.3 (9.5) to 58.9 (8.9)% Post60]. sHT was associated with an increase in blood lactate [from 1.5 (0.4) to 2.4 (0.9) mmol L−1], and a decrease in bicarbonate [28 (2.4) to 25.8 (2.6) mmol L−1] and base excess [4.7 (1.9) to 2.0 (2.7) mmol L−1] between baseline and 60 min after the start of the experiment. Conclusions: Induction of mHT and sHT by hypovolaemia and nitroprusside infusion caused alterations in brain tissue oxygenation in a piglet model, but without detectable changes in brain tissue perfusion and regional oxygen saturation.

This study involved 503 cattle with traumatic reticuloperitonitis (TRP), 494 of which underwent ultrasonographic and 484 radiographic examination of the reticulum. Ultrasonography revealed changes in the reticulum and/or peritoneum suggestive of peritonitis in 403 (83%) cattle, a decrease in the amplitude of reticular contractions in 244 (54%) and reduced or absent reticular motility in 173 (37%). A total of 536 foreign bodies were seen on 465 (96%) radiographs and a magnet was seen on 311 (64%) radiographs. Of the 536 foreign bodies, 300 (56%) were not attached to a magnet and 236 (44%) were attached. Of 300 radiographs showing foreign bodies not attached to a magnet, the foreign body was lying flat on the floor of the reticulum on 98 (18%) radiographs, was at an angle of greater than 30 degrees to the ventral aspect of the reticulum on 54 (10%), had penetrated the dorsal reticular wall on 76 (14%), had perforated the reticulum on 64 (12%) and was completely outside of the reticulum on 8 (1%) radiographs. Ultrasonography provides information about the scale and localisation of inflammatory changes of the peritoneum, and radiography allows the visualisation of ferromagnetic foreign bodies and magnets.

A 6-year-old Haflinger gelding was presented with a chronic right hindlimb lameness. Scintigraphy, radiography and computed tomography confirmed an active large cyst-like lesion in the distal metaphysis of the right tibia. A transcortical surgical approach was used to curette the lesion and fill it with an autologous bone graft and a calcium phosphate bone substitute material. Histopathology revealed mild histiocytic inflammatory changes, mild fibrosis and bone necrosis. This case report describes an unusual cyst-like lesion in the tibial metaphysis of a horse.

Subchondral cystic lesions (SCLs) are common in horses and often cause lameness and they are commonly diagnosed by radiography. This study compares radiographic and computed tomographic (CT) features of subchondral cystic lesions in horses. It was hypothesized, that CT has a superior diagnostic value for the assessment of the features of SCLs compared to radiography. Horses diagnosed with one or two SCLs in CT and a radiographic study of the affected bone were included. SCLs were evaluated on radiographs and CT for location, size, shape, homogeneity, continuity of the subchondral bone, peripheral sclerosis, presence of a fissure, osteoarthritis (OA) and periostitis. Vascular channels were only assessed with CT. Subsequently, radiographic findings were compared to CT. Forty-two SCLs in a total of 32 horses were included in the study. Radiographic visibility of SCLs diagnosed with CT was 79% (95% CI: 0.64 to 0.88). In joints with two SCLs, the second cystic lesion was more often missed radiographically (p=0.014). A discontinuous subchondral bone was evident in CT in 40 of 42 SCLs whereas it was suspected in only 23 of 33 radiographically diagnosed SCLs. With CT, fissures were more commonly diagnosed and in 16 SCLs, vascular channels were identified. SCLs with fissures showed more periostitis with CT (p=0.01). Radiographically missed SCLs presented less peripheral sclerosis in CT (p=0.023). Intermodality agreement was borderline good (κ=0.60–0.66) for location (proximal, distal; lateral, medial, midsagittal), OA and periostitis, borderline moderate for presence of a fissure (κ=0.42), fair for homogeneity (κ=0.35), and only poor for location (dorsal, central, palmar/plantar), shape, peripheral sclerosis and continuity of the subchondral bone (κ=0.06–0.18). This study highlights the advantages of CT for the characterization of SCLs in horses. Vascular channels appear to be a frequent finding.

The present study was undertaken to provide computed tomographic (CT) reference values for structures in the thorax of the calf. Six clinically healthy Holstein-Friesian calves were anaesthetized. Transverse pre- and postcontrast images with a reconstructed 1.5-mm slice thickness were obtained using a multislice-CT scanner at 6 different time points from birth to 105 days of age. Absolute and relative measurements of the trachea, heart, cranial and caudal vena cava, thoracic aorta, right and left principal bronchi, right and left caudal lobar bronchi and the accompanying branches of the right and left pulmonary artery and vein, thoracic lymph nodes and lung density were taken for every time point. All animals were euthanized after the last CT scan, and 4 calves were frozen to generate an atlas comparing gross anatomy with CT. During the study, 4 animals temporarily showed coughing and mucopurulent nasal discharge, and mild to moderate bronchopneumonia and pleuritis were diagnosed using CT. Animals recovered with treatment; however, mild to moderate CT changes remained throughout the study. Even in the 2 clinically normal animals, mild bronchopneumonia was diagnosed on CT.In dieser Arbeit wurden computertomographische (CT) Normalwerte für Strukturen des Thorax beim Kalb erhoben. Sechs klinisch gesunde Holstein-Friesian-Kälber wurden dafür in Vollnarkose von der Geburt bis zum Alter von 105 Tagen 6 mal mit einem Mehrschicht-Computertomographen nativ und angiographisch untersucht. Es wurden Bilder mit einer Schichtdicke von 1.5 mm rekonstruiert. Absolute und relative Messungen des Herzens, der Trachea, Aorta thoracica, Vena cava cranialis und caudalis, Bronchi principales, Bronchi lobares caudales mit den Ästen der Arteriae und Venae pulmonales, Lymphknoten und Lungendichte wurden zu jedem Zeitpunkt ausgeführt. Alle Tiere wurden im Anschluss an die letzte Untersuchung euthanasiert, und 4 Kälber wurden für eine vergleichende Gegenüberstellung der CT Bilder mit anatomischen Schnittbildern tiefgefroren. Während der Studie entwickelten 4 Kälber Husten und Nasenausfluss. Mittels CT wurden eine leicht- bis mittelgradige Bronchopneumonie und Pleuritis diagnostiziert. Obwohl sich die Tiere nach Behandlung vollständig erholten, persistierten leicht- bis mittelgradige CT Veränderungen bis zum Ende der Studie. Selbst bei den beiden klinisch gesunden Tieren wurde im CT eine leichtgradige Bronchopneumonie diagnostiziert.Dans ce travail, on a relevé les valeurs normales de tomodensitométrie pour les structures thoraciques de veaux. Six veaux holstein-friesian en bonne santé ont pour cela été examinés sous narcose à six reprises, de leur naissance à l'âge de 105 jours, au moyen d'un scanner multi-barrettes sous forme native et en angiographie. On a reconstruit des images avec une épaisseur de coupe de 1.5 mm. On a effectué à chaque fois des mesures absolues et relatives du cœur, de la trachée, de l'aorte thoracique, de la veine cave crâniale et caudale, des bronches principales, des bronches lobaires avec les rameaux des artères et des veines pulmonaires, des ganglions lymphatiques ainsi que de la densité pulmonaire. Tous les animaux ont été euthanasiés à l'issue du sixième examen et quatre d'entre eux ont été congelés pour permettre une comparaison entre les images obtenues et des coupes anatomiques. Durant l'étude, quatre veaux ont présenté de la toux et un écoulement nasal. La tomodensitométrie a permis de diagnostiquer une bronchopneumonie légère à moyenne ainsi qu'une pleurésie. Bien que les animaux aient, après traitement, complètement guéri, des modifications légères à moyennes des images tomodensitométriques ont persistés jusqu'à la fin de l'étude. Une légère broncho-pneumonie a même été diagnostiquée chez les deux animaux ne présentant pas de symptômes cliniques.In questo lavoro, sono stati raccolti via tomografia computerizzata (CT) i valori normali delle strutture toraciche nel vitello. Sei vitelli di razza Frisona Holstein clinicamente sani sono stati esaminati per 6 volte, sotto anestesia generale, dalla loro nascita fino all'età di 105 giorni, via tomografia computerizzata multislice e angiografia. Le immagini sono state ricostruite con uno spessore di 1.5 mm. Le misurazioni assolute e relative del cuore, della trachea, dell'aorta toracica, della vena cava craniale e caudale, dei bronchi principali, dei bronchi lobare caudali con i rami delle arterie e delle vene polmonari, dei linfonodi e della densità del polmone sono state eseguite puntualmente. Tutti gli animali sono stati eutanasiati in occasione dell'ultimo esame e 4 vitelli sono stati congelati per un'analisi comparativa delle immagini TC di sezioni anatomiche. Durante lo studio, 4 vitelli hanno sviluppato tosse e secrezioni nasali. Grazie alla CT è stata diagnosticata una da lieve a moderata polmonite bronchiale e pleurite. Sebbene gli animali si siano completamente ristabiliti dopo il trattamento, si sono riscontrate delle leggere a moderate modifiche della CT fino alla fine dello studio. Anche nei due animali clinicamente sani è stata diagnosticata dalla CT una lieve broncopolmonite.

Computed tomographic (CT) images of the reticulum, rumen, omasum and abomasum of five healthy Holstein-Friesian bull calves were compared with anatomical transverse cadaver sections of the same calves. The calves were scanned in the transverse plane from the 5th thoracic vertebra to the sacrum six times three weeks apart from birth to 105 days of age. Multiplanar reconstruction was used to create images in sagittal and dorsal planes. After subjective assessment of various anatomical structures, the rumen, omasum and abomasum as well as the ruminal strata (gas cap, fibre mat and fluid phase) were measured. After the last CT scan, all calves were euthanised, and four were kept at -18 °C in sternal position for 14 days. Transverse sections 1.0 to 1.5 cm thick were made from two calves and dorsal and sagittal sections were made from one calf each using a band saw. The CT images and anatomical slices were compared and the structures on the CT images identified. Very clear CT images were obtained from the reticulum, rumen, omasum and abomasum and there was excellent agreement between images and anatomical slices.In der vorliegenden Arbeit wurden die computertomographischen (CT) Befunde an Haube, Pansen, Psalter und Labmagen von 5 gesunden Kälbern von der Geburt bis zum Alter von 105 Tagen beschrieben und mit denjenigen der postmortalen Untersuchung verglichen. Die Kälber wurden in Abständen von 3 Wochen insgesamt 6 Mal computertomographisch untersucht. Die Untersuchung erfolgte in Transversalschnitten vom fünften Brustwirbel bis zum Sakrum. Mittels multiplanarer Rekonstruktion wurden die Strukturen auch in Sagittal- und Dorsalebenen dargestellt. Im Anschluss an die subjektive Beurteilung wurden verschiedene Strukturen, wie die Ausdehnung von Pansen, Psalter und Labmagen und diejenige der gasförmigen, flüssigen und festen Ingestaphase im Pansen bestimmt. Alle Kälber wurden im Anschluss an die CT-Untersuchung euthanasiert. Vier davon wurden während 14 Tagen bei -18 °C in sternaler Position tiefgefroren. Danach wurden 2 Kälber transversal in 1.0 bis 1.5 cm dicke Scheiben gesägt. Je ein Kalb wurde in Dorsal- bzw. Sagittalschnitten gesägt. Die Schnitte wurden den CT-Bildern der entsprechenden Lokalisation gegenübergestellt, um die abgebildeten Strukturen zu identifizieren. Haube, Pansen, Psalter und Labmagen konnten computertomographisch exakt dargestellt werden. Die Topographie der CT-Bilder und der anatomischen Schnittpräparate stimmten sehr gut überein.Dans le présent travail, on décrit les constatations tomodensitométriques sur la panse, le bonnet, le feuillet et la caillette de 5 veaux mâles en bonne santé dans les 105 premiers jours de vie et on les compare avec les résultats des examens post-mortem. Les veaux ont été examinés au total 6 fois par tomodensitométrie à intervalle de 3 semaines. L'examen a été réalisé par coupes transversales de la 5ème vertèbre thoracale jusqu'au sacrum. On a également reconstitué les structures dans les plans sagittal et dorsal au moyen de reconstruction multi planaires. Après l'examen subjectif, on a défini diverses structures, comme l'extension de la panse, du feuillet et de la caillette et celle des phases gazeuses, liquides et solides de l'ingestat de la panse. Tous les veaux ont été euthanasiés après les examens tomodensitométriques. Quatre d'entre eux ont été congelés durant 14 jours en position sternale à -18 °C. Deux veaux ont ensuite été sciés transversalement en tranches de 1.0 à 1.5 cm d'épaisseur. Un veau a été scié en tranches dorsales et un en tranches sagittales. Les coupes ont été comparées aux images tomodensitométriques afin d'identifier les structures visualisées. Le bonnet, la panse, le feuillet et la caillette ont pu être visualisés de façon exacte par tomodensitométrie. La topographie des images tomodensitométriques et des coupes anatomiques correspondent très bien.In questo studio sono stati descritti i risultati della tomografia computerizzata (CT) del reticolo, rumine, omaso e abomaso di 5 vitelli sani dalla nascita fino al 105esimo giorno di vita e confrontati con le analisi post mortem. I vitelli sono stati esaminati con CT per 6 volte ad intervalli di 3 settimane. L'esame è stato condotto in sezione trasversale dalla quinta vertebra toracica fino al sacro. Con una ricostruzione multiplanare sono state rappresentate le strutture anche sui piani sagittale e dorsale. In seguito alla valutazione soggettiva sono state definite varie strutture come la dilatazione del rumine, dell'omaso e dell'abomaso e infine la dilatazione della fase ingesta gassosa, liquida e solida del rumine. Tutti i vitelli alla fine delle analisi CT sono stati eutanasiati. Quattro di loro sono stati congelati durante 14 giorni a -18 °C in posizione sternale. Dopodiché, 2 vitelli sono stati segati trasversalmente a strati di spessore da 1.0 a 1.5 cm. Un vitello è stato segato in posizione dorsale e uno in posizione sagittale. Le sezioni sono state confrontate alle immagini CT della posizione corrispondente alfine di individuare le strutture raffigurate. Reticolo, rumine, omaso e abomaso sono stati raffigurati esattamente con la CT. La topografia delle immagini CT e gli esami istologici coincidevano molto bene.

REASONS FOR PERFORMING STUDY: Computed tomographic (CT) studies evaluating the relevance of individual CT features of apical infection in maxillary cheek teeth are lacking. OBJECTIVES: To study the prevalence and relationship of single CT features in horses with and without clinical evidence of apical infection in maxillary cheek teeth. STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective case-control study. METHODS: Multislice CT scans of the head of 49 horses were evaluated retrospectively. Changes of the infundibulum, pulp, root, lamina dura, periodontal space and alveolar bone in maxillary cheek teeth were recorded. RESULTS: Single CT changes were much more prevalent in the 28 horses with clinical signs. However, infundibular changes and a nondetectable lamina dura were also common in the 21 horses without clinical evidence of apical infection. Computed tomographic abnormalities of the pulp, root, periapical bone and periodontal space and the presence of a tooth fracture were significantly related. Infundibular changes were not associated with other CT signs of apical infection. Although nondetectable lamina dura was the most frequent CT change in all teeth in both studied groups, it was most commonly a solitary feature in otherwise normal teeth. Apical infections, defined as ≥3 CT changes, occurred mainly in the 108/208, 109/209 and 110/210 (Triadan numbers) and were found only in horses with clinical evidence of apical infection, except in one horse without clinical signs that had one affected root. CONCLUSIONS: Combined CT changes of the pulp, root, lamina dura, periapical bone and periodontal space and the presence of a tooth fracture appear to be reliable features to diagnose apical infection in maxillary cheek teeth. As a solitary feature, a nondetectable lamina dura should be interpreted cautiously and may even be considered normal due to its minor thickness and/or too low resolution of the imaging modality.

Real-time elastography is a new ultrasonographic technology for measurement of tissue elasticity. Malignant lesions in the human breast, prostate, thyroid and lymph nodes show significantly reduced elasticity. The present study investigated the use of real-time elastography in the spleen of 22 dogs (8 benign and 6 malignant nodules, and 8 normal spleens) and results were compared to contrast-enhanced ultrasound findings. In summary, real-time elastography was neither able to differentiate benign from malignant splenic lesions, nor normal from diseased splenic tissue. No significant associations with contrast-enhanced ultrasound results were found. Real-time elastography, therefore, does not appear a useful tool for the differentiation of splenic nodules in the dog.Die Echtzeit-Elastographie ist eine neue Ultraschalltechnologie zur Bestimmung der Gewebeelastizität. Beim Menschen weisen maligne Knoten in der Brust, Prostata, Thyroidea und Lymphknoten eine signifikant reduzierte Elastizität auf. In der vorliegenden Studie wurde die Echtzeit-Elastographie in der Milz von 22 Hunden eingesetzt (8 benigne und 6 maligne Knoten, 8 normale Milzen). Es konnten weder benigne von malignen Knoten noch verändertes von normalem Milzgewebe unterschieden werden. Die Ergebnisse korrelierten nicht mit den Befunden des kontrastmittelverstärkten Ultraschalls. Daher scheint sich die Echtzeit-Elastographie nicht für die Differenzierung von Milzknoten beim Hund zu eignen.L'élastographie en temps réel est une nouvelle technique d'échographie qui permet de déterminer l'élasticité tissulaire. Chez l'homme, les nodules malins dans le sein, la prostate, la thyroïde et les ganglions lymphatiques présentent une élasticité significativement réduite. Dans la présente étude, on a utilisé l'élastographie en temps réel de la rate chez 22 chiens (8 nodules bénins et 6 malins, 8 rates normales). Les nodules bénins n'ont pas pu être différenciés des malins, ni le tissu splénique modifié du tissu normal. Les résultats n'étaient pas corrélés avec ceux de l'échographie renforcée par un moyen de contraste. Il ne semble donc pas que l'élastographie en temps réel permette la différenciation des nodules spléniques chez le chien.L'elastografia in tempo reale è una nuova tecnica di ultrasuoni per la determinazione dell'elasticità dei tessuti. Negli uomini, i noduli maligni del seno, della prostata, della tiroide e dei nodi linfatici presentano chiaramente una ridotta elasticità. Lo studio qui di seguito usa l'elastografia in tempo reale per analizzare la milza di 22 cani (8 noduli benigni e 6 maligni, 8 milze normali) Non è stato possibile distinguere i noduli benigni dai maligni nè delle modifiche del tessuto normale della milza. I risultati non si correlavano con i reperti del mezzo di contrasto ecografico. In conclusione, l'elastografia in tempo reale non è adatta per la differenziazione dei noduli della milza nel cane.

For various types of tumor therapy, it is suggested that co-targeting of tumor microenvironment, mainly tumor vasculature, mediates tumor response mechanisms. Immunohistochemistry for glucose transporter-1 (GLUT-1), carbonic anhydrase-IX (CAIX), Ki-67, and von Willebrand factor VIII for microvessel density (MVD) were performed on formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded samples of canine oral malignant neoplasms. Polarographic oxygen measurements (median pO2) and perfusion data via contrast-enhanced power Doppler ultrasound (median vascularity, median blood volume) provided additional information. Ninety-two samples were analyzed: sarcomas (n = 32), carcinomas (n = 30), and malignant melanomas (n = 30). Polarographic oxygen and perfusion data was available in 22.8% (sarcomas n = 9, carcinomas n = 7, melanomas n = 5), and 27.1% (sarcomas n = 10, carcinomas n = 8, melanomas n = 7) of cases, respectively. GLUT-1 expression was detected in 46.7% of all samples, and was generally weak. CAIX expression was found in 34.8% of all samples. Median Ki-67 score and MVD count was 19% and 17, respectively. The evaluation of the GLUT-1 score and continuous data showed significantly lower GLUT-1 levels in sarcomas (mean 5.1%, SD 6.2) versus carcinomas and melanomas (mean 16.5%/ 19.0%, SD 17.3/ 20.9, p = 0.001). The expression of CAIX correlated mildly positively with GLUT-1 (p = 0.018, rho = 0.250) as well as with Ki-67 (p = 0.014, rho = 0.295). MVD showed a significantly lower level in melanomas (mean 12.6, SD 7.7) versus sarcomas and carcinomas (mean 21.8/ 26.9, SD 13.0/20.4, p = 0.001). Median vascularity and blood volume were significantly lower in sarcomas (mean 10.4%, SD 11.0, and mean 6.3%, SD 6.5, respectively) versus carcinomas (mean 39.2%, SD 16.4 and mean 33.0%, SD 25.6, respectively) and melanomas (mean 36.0%, SD 18.3, and 31.5%, SD 24.5). Between the 3 histological groups, there was neither a significant difference in the GLUT-1 and CAIX score and continuous data, nor the Ki67 score, or polarographic oxygen measurements. GLUT-1 continuous data and Ki-67 (p

Diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis (DISH) is a common, non-inflammatory, systemic disease of the spine and the abaxial skeleton in humans and dogs. Spondylosis deformans (SD) must be considered as an important differential diagnosis which in humans, unlike DISH, is always accompanied by degenerative disc disease. In the veterinary literature, usually no difference is made between these diseases. The aim of the present review is to summarize essentials of DISH regarding its definition, etiology, prevalence, clinical findings and therapy in both, the human and dog. In particular, the various classification schemes and the most important differential diagnoses are discussed. Specific aspects of canine DISH are highlighted.Die diffuse idiopathische skelettale Hyperostose (DISH) ist eine häufige, nicht-entzündliche systemische Erkrankung der Wirbelsäule und des peripheren Skeletts bei Mensch und Hund. Eine wichtige Differentialdiagnose stellt die Spondylosis deformans (SD) dar, welche beim Menschen im Gegensatz zu DISH mit einer degenerativen Bandscheibenerkrankung einhergeht und daher eine eigenständige Erkrankung darstellt. In der veterinärmedizinischen Literatur dagegen wird häufig nicht explizit zwischen SD und DISH unterschieden. Ziel der vorliegenden Arbeit ist eine Übersicht zur Definition, Ätiologie, Prävalenz, Klinik und Therapie von DISH bei Mensch und Hund zu geben. Im Besonderen werden die verschiedenen Klassifikationsschemata und die wichtigsten Differentialdiagnosen diskutiert. Spezifische Aspekte der Erkrankung beim Hund sollen hervorgehoben werden.L’hyperostose squelettique idiopathique diffuse (DISH) est une affection systémique non-inflammatoire de la colonne vertébrale et du squelette périphérique chez l’homme et le chien. La spondylose déformante (SD) qui, chez l’homme, contrairement à la DISH, s’accompagne d’une atteinte dégénérative des disques intervertébraux et représente donc une entité pathologique propre constitue un diagnostic différentiel important. Dans la littérature vétérinaire, par contre, on ne distingue souvent pas de façon explicite entre SD et DISH. Le but du présent travail est de donner un aperçu de la définition, de l’étiologie, de la prévalence, de la clinique et du traitement de la DISH chez l’homme et le chien. On discute en particulier les divers schémas de classification et les principaux diagnostics différentiels et on relève particulièrement les aspects spécifiques de l’affection chez le chien.La iperostosi scheletrica idiopatica diffusa (DISH) è una patologia sistemica frequente e non infiammatoria della colonna vertebrale e dello scheletro periferico degli esseri umani e dei cani. Un’importante diagnosi differenziale rappresenta la spondilosi deformante (SD) che, al contrario della DISH, negli esseri umani è associata ad una malattia degenerativa del disco e costituisce una malattia indipendente. Nella letteratura veterinaria d’altra parte spesso non si distingue in modo esplicito tra SD e DISH. Lo scopo di questo articolo è di dare una panoramica sulla definizione, l’eziologia, la prevalenza, la clinicologia e la terapia della DISH negli esseri umani e nei cani. In particolare, sono stati discussi i diversi schemi di classificazione e le principali diagnosi differenziali. Gli aspetti specifici della malattia nei cani devono essere evidenziati.

The present study was performed to provide computed tomographic (CT) reference values for structures in the thorax of 26 clinically normal Saanen goats. Animals were anesthetized, positioned in sternal recumbency and transverse images with a reconstructed 1.5mm slice thickness were obtained by use of a 40-slice CT scanner. Absolute and relative measurements of the trachea, heart, cranial vena cava, thoracic aorta, caudal vena cava, right and left principal bronchus, right and left caudal lobar bronchus and the concomitant branch of the right and left pulmonary artery and vein, large caudal mediastinal lymph node and lung density were performed with dedicated software. Minimal to moderate interstitial or bronchopneumonia was incidentally found on CT in 24 animals. In conclusion, CT images obtained in this study can be used as a reference for the evaluation of thoracic diseases in goats.

Various treatment methods have been used for the management of subchondral cystic lesions (SCLs) in horses. Filling the defect with parathyroid hormone fragment peptide 1-34 (PTH1-34) in a fibrin matrix represents a relatively new approach that requires further investigation. For this reason fifteen horses with clinical and radiographic evidence of a total of sixteen SCLs (one horse bilaterally affected) were treated surgically with debridement of the cystic contents and injection of PTH1-34 in a fibrin hydrogel into the cyst cavity. Objectives of the study were to determine the clinical and radiographic outcome of SCLs treated locally with PTH1-34 and to identify factors that may predict outcome. Clinical and radiographic follow-up examinations were carried out at two, four, six and 12 months postoperatively and a telephone inquiry was carried out five to seven years later. The mean age of the horses was 4.9 years. Six SCLs were in the medial condyle of the femur, three in the distal metacarpus, three in the proximal sesamoid bone, two in the first phalanx, one in the patella and one in the calcaneus. Treatment was considered successful in 11 of the 15 cases (73%) because the horses were sound and returned to full work. In the remaining patients, there was improvement in one and no change in three others after treatment. Based on the outcome of this study, PTH1-34 in a fibrin matrix administered directly into the cyst after surgical debridement appears to be a promising treatment option for treating SCLs at various anatomic sites in horses

Effect of tibial tuberosity advancement (TTA) on the patellar ligament has not been described. Our purpose was to evaluate the patellar ligament radiographically and ultrasonographically before and after a TTA. Twenty-one stifles (20 dogs) were evaluated preoperatively (T0), and at six (n=18) (T1) and 16 weeks (n=17) (T2) postTTA. Radiographically, proximal and distal thickness of the patellar ligament was assessed and a ratio to the total length of the ligament was calculated to compensate for the magnification. Ultrasound evaluation included measurements of the transverse thickness and cross-sectional area at three different levels, as well as a subjective score of ligament changes. In comparison with T0, all radiographic and ultrasonographic measurements increased significantly, 6 weeks postoperatively (P≤0.04), and did not change 16 weeks postoperatively compared with T1. The subjective score worsened significantly from T0 to T1 and T0 to T2 (P

Assessment of gestational age and parturition date prediction is a challenging, yet common task in clinical management of the pregnant bitch or queen. Knowing the approximate parturition date is essential for a thorough pregnancy monitoring. Radiographic and ultrasonographic methods are suitable in bitches and queens. In the bitch, moreover, ovulation timing by means of LH or progesterone assay, determination of onset of vaginal dioestrus by means of examination of vaginal cytology, and recognition of impending parturition by monitoring prepartal progesterone levels and body temperature variation are practical methods. A combination of different methods increases the accuracy of parturition date prediction.

To characterize the computed tomography (CT) features of thoracic lesions caused by infection with Angiostrongylus vasorum, pre- and postcontrast CT was performed in six experimentally infected Beagles 13 weeks postinoculation and in four of these 9 weeks postchemotherapy. Findings were compared with survey radiographs and necropsy findings. A multicentric bronchoalveolar pattern more pronounced at the lung periphery was present radiographically. On CT, the predominant abnormality underlying this alveolar pattern was multiple large nodules merging to areas of consolidation, and containing air bronchograms of varying extent. These nodular changes corresponded to histopathologic granulomata, consisting mainly of macrophages, multinucleated giant cells, and lymphocytes that had accumulated around larvae and eggs. Morphologically, no bronchial changes were observed on CT or histologically. Quantitatively, however, on CT there was evidence of bronchial thickening at 13 weeks postinoculation and mild very peripheral bronchiectasia 9 weeks postchemotherapy. Regional lymph nodes were enlarged after infection, and smaller after treatment. On postcontrast CT, several suspicious intraluminal filling defects suggestive of thrombosis were found; however, the tortuosity of some pulmonary arteries seen radiographically was not present in CT images. After treatment, the consolidations and large nodules had almost completely disappeared. A remaining radiographic interstitial pattern was characterized on CT as ground-glass opacifications, subpleural interstitial thickening, subpleural lines, and interface signs. These interstitial changes reflected fibrosis as documented histopathologically. CT allowed very detailed and accurate characterization of pulmonary parenchymal lesions, bronchi, and lymphnodes and closely reflected histopathological changes.

A 7-month-old male kitten was presented with chronic constipation and retarded growth. Clinical examination revealed disproportional dwarfism with mild skeletal abnormalities and a palpable thyroid gland. The presumptive diagnosis of congenital hypothyroidism was confirmed by low serum total thyroxine (tT4) concentration prior to and after the administration of thyroid stimulation hormone (TSH), increased endogenous TSH concentration and abnormal thyroid scintigraphic scan. The kitten had abnormal liver function tests and decreased insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) concentration, both of which returned to normal in correspondence with an improvement of the clinical signs after 6 weeks of thyroxine therapy. Congenital hypothyroidism is a rare disease that may present with considerable variation in clinical manifestation. In cases in which clinical signs are ambiguous, disorders such as portosystemic shunt and hyposomatotropism have to be taken into account as differential diagnosis. As hypothyroidism may be associated with abnormal liver function tests and low IGF-1 concentrations, test results have to be interpreted carefully.

This case report describes the clinical, sonographic, computed tomographic and pathological findings in a 9-year-old goat with mediastinal lymphocytic thymoma. The goat was referred to the Department of Farm Animals because of weight loss and dyspnoea. The lead clinical findings were increased heart rate, increased respiratory rate and heart sounds heard only on the right side. Ultrasonographic examination revealed a massive amount of fluid and an echogenic corrugated mass ventral to the lungs in the thoracic cavity on the left side. Computed tomography showed that the mass was very large and diffusely mineralised. A tentative diagnosis of mediastinal neoplasia was made, and the goat was euthanized. Postmortem examination revealed a cauliflower-like, pedunculated tumour, which occupied the entire left thoracic cavity and displaced the left lung. Based on histological evaluation, the tumour was diagnosed as a lymphocytic thymoma.

This report describes the findings in five cows from one dairy herd, in which all 31 cows were slaughtered or euthanased because of traumatic reticuloperitonitis. All the cows had numerous thin sharp pieces of metal attached to a magnet in the reticulum, giving the magnet a hedgehog-like appearance. Investigation revealed that the cattle had eaten forage harvested from a field immediately adjacent to an airport. The snow was cleared from the airport runways with a machine that had a wire-bristle brush attachment. Mechanical wear resulted in numerous wire bristles breaking and these were blown with the snow onto the field in question. The wire then became accidentally incorporated into the hay and grass silage at harvest the next summer and was ingested by the cattle in the fall and winter. To prevent further cases, approximately 200 tonnes of hay and grass silage contaminated with wire were discarded and 30 hectares of the 50-hectare field were cultivated and re-sown. The wire-bristles of the snow plough were replaced with plastic bristles. The cost of this and the livestock loss was several hundred thousand Swiss Francs.

Background: The diagnosis of feline pancreatic disease is difficult, because clinical abnormalities and routine noninvasive diagnostic tests are unreliable. Objective: The purpose of this study was to investigate by Doppler ultrasonography if vascularity and blood volume differs in the otherwise ultrasonographically normal and diseased feline pancreas. Animals: Thirty-six client owned cats. Methods: The pancreas was examined with B-mode and contrast-enhanced color and power Doppler ultrasonography. Doppler images were analyzed with a computer program: parameter fractional area represents a vascularity index and color-weighted fractional area assesses blood volume. Results: Based on the B-mode findings, the pancreas was considered normal in 11 clinically healthy cats and diseased in 25 cats of which 4 were clinically healthy and 21 had clinical signs consistent with pancreatic disease. Histologic or cytologic samples were taken in all diseased pancreata. Fifteen samples were of diagnostic quality: purulent or mixed cellular inflammation (8), nodular hyperplasia (4), and neoplasia (3) were identified. Vascularity and blood volume for all Doppler methods was significantly higher in cats with pancreatic disease. Significantly higher Doppler values were detected with power Doppler than with color Doppler, and with postcontrast color and power Doppler than with precontrast Doppler technologies. Conclusion: Contrast-enhanced Doppler ultrasonography appears feasible in the feline pancreas. Significant differences were found between normal cats and those with evidence of pancreatic pathology. Further studies are needed to evaluate its use for the differentiation of pancreatic disorders and in cats suspected to have pancreatic disease but without B-mode ultrasonographic changes of the pancreas.

The concept of contrast enhancement has significantly extended the usefulness of ultrasound imaging in human medicine and medical research over the past decade. The persistence and efficacy of ultrasound contrast agents has been improved and specific imaging sequences have been developed. Contrast ultrasound provides Doppler and grey-scale enhancement. Doppler examinations are improved when studying deep or small vessels and vessels with low flow velocities. Specific contrast imaging sequences allow detection of tissue enhancement with grey-scale ultrasound which enables assessment of tissue perfusion. Major clinical applications of contrast ultrasound in the human medicine field are the heart, the parenchymal organs such as the liver, spleen and kidneys, and vascular applications. Many other interesting applications have been identified and beside their diagnostic value, intensive research is currently investigating the use of ultrasound contrast agents for therapeutic applications such as targeted delivery of drug- or gene-loaded microbubbles. In the last few years, contrast ultrasound has also been introduced in veterinary medicine. Its usefulness has been shown in diseases of the liver, spleen, kidney, pancreas, lymph nodes and superficial tumours. In the present article, an overview of the physical principles, imaging techniques and image analyses is presented. In addition, a literature review details the current use in veterinary medicine and areas of potential utilization are discussed.

PTK787/ZK 222584 is an inhibitor of the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) receptor tyrosine kinases. In this study, the effectiveness of PTK787/ZK 222584 and radiation on canine oral melanoma xenografts was assessed. Xenografts were treated with radiotherapy (4 · 6 Gy), or with PTK787/ZK 222584, or with a combination of both. Treatment efficacy was assessed using a tumour growth delay assay, serial power Doppler and pO2 measurements during and after therapy. There was a significant growth delay for the group treated with radiation alone and for the combined treatment group. However, tumour growth delay was similar in both groups. Tumours were hypoxic before irradiation and no significant re-oxygenation occurred during therapy. In all tumours, vascularity and perfusion were significantly lower at the end of the study but no significant differences in perfusion, vascularity and oxygenation status were observed between and within treatment groups. The combination of PTK787/ZK 222584 and radiotherapy did not perform better than radiotherapy alone in this model.

Since its clinical introduction, computed tomography (CT) has revolutionized veterinary medicine and is considered to be one of the most valuable tools for the imaging work-up of neurological, oncological and orthopaedic canine and feline patients. In small animals with acute trauma, particularly those involving complex anatomic areas such as the head, spine or pelvis, CT has been established as a standard imaging method. With the increasing availability of radiation therapy in veterinary medicine, CT has also become the principal tool to stage a tumour, assess response, and guide radiation therapy. The increasing availability of helical CT in veterinary medicine has allowed novel techniques such as spiral CT angiography and high-resolution CT. This review provides a brief overview of the historical and technical development of CT and literature reviews of the major clinical CT applications in small animals such as intracranial and extracranial lesions, the spine, the appendicular skeleton, and abdominal and thoracic diseases.

Background Rabbits are widely accepted as an animal model in neuroscience research. They also represent very popular pet animals, and, in selected clinical cases with neurological signs, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be indicated for imaging the rabbit brain. Literature on the normal MRI anatomy of the rabbit brain and associated structures as well as related reference values is sparse. Therefore, it was the purpose of this study to generate an MRI atlas of the normal rabbit brain including the pituitary gland, the cranial nerves and major vessels by the use of a 3 T magnet. Results Based on transverse, dorsal and sagittal T2-weighted (T2w) and pre- and post-contrast 3D T1-weighted (T1w) sequences, 60 intracranial structures were identified and labeled. Typical features of a lissencephalic brain type were described. In the 5 investigated rabbits, on T1w images a crescent-shaped hyperintense area caudodorsally in the pituitary gland most likely corresponded to a part of the neurohypophysis. The optic, trigeminal, and in part, the facial, vestibulocochlear and trochlear nerves were identified. Mild contrast enhancement of the trigeminal nerve was present in all rabbits. Absolute and relative size of the pituitary gland, midline area of the cranial and caudal cranial fossa and height of the tel- and diencephalon, 3rd and 4th ventricles were also determined. Conclusions These data established normal MRI appearance and measurements of the rabbit brain. Results provide reference for research studies in rabbits and, in rare instances, clinical cases in veterinary medicine. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s13028-015-0139-6) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Published descriptions of nonseptic arthritis of the equine temporomandibular joint (TMJ) are rare and large studies investigating variations in the TMJ for asymptomatic horses are lacking. The objectives of this cross-sectional, retrospective, multi-institutional study were to describe anatomical variations in the TMJ detected using computed tomography (CT) in an equid population asymptomatic for TMJ disease and determine whether these variations were associated with patient signalment, reason for CT examination, or CT slice width. Medical records at eight hospitals were searched for horses that had head/neck CT scans and no clinical signs of TMJ disease. Age, breed, sex, clinical presentation, and CT slice width data were recorded. Alterations in CT contour and density of the mandibular condyles, mandibular fossae, and TMJ intra-articular discs were described for each horse. Generalized logistic regression was used to test associations between anatomical variations and horse age. A total of 1018 horses were sampled. Anatomical variations were found in TMJ CT images for 40% of horses and 29% of joints. These were dichotomous with regard to age. Horses1 year old commonly had alterations in the shape and density of the mandibular condyle. Older horses commonly had spherical hypodensities within the mandibular condyles consistent with bone cysts; and hyperdense regions of the intra-articular disc consistent with dystrophic mineralization. Findings indicated that TMJ anatomic variations were common in CT images of younger and older horses asymptomatic for TMJ disease. Future studies are needed to more definitively characterize these CT variations using gross pathology and histopathology.

Background Cats with diabetes mellitus can have subclinical pancreatitis but prospective studies to confirm this are lacking. Metabolic control of diabetic cats with pancreatitis is difficult. Hypothesis Subclinical pancreatitis occurs in diabetic cats at the time diabetes is diagnosed or might develop during the follow-up period, hampering diabetic remission. Animals Thirty cats with newly diagnosed diabetes without clinical signs of pancreatitis on admission. Methods Prospective study. On admission and 2 and 6 months later, serum Spec fPL and DGGR-lipase were measured and the pancreas underwent ultrasonographic examination. Pancreatitis was suspected if serum markers were increased or ≥2 ultrasonographic abnormalities were detected. Cats were treated with insulin glargine and diabetic remission was defined as euglycemia ≥4 weeks after discontinuation of insulin. Nonparametric statistical tests were used for analysis. Results Subclinical pancreatitis at the time of diagnosis was suspected in 33, 50, and 31% of cats based on Spec fPL, DGGR-lipase and ultrasonography, respectively; and in 60% when diagnostic criteria were combined. During the follow-up period, suspected pancreatitis developed in additional 17–30% cats. Only 1 cat had transient clinical signs compatible with pancreatitis. Seventeen of the 30 cats (57%) achieved remission. Frequency of abnormal Spec fPL and DGGR-lipase and abnormal ultrasonographic findings did not differ in cats achieving remission and those who did not. Cats achieving remission had significantly lower Spec fPL at 2 months (P

Central European tick-borne encephalomyelitis can be challenging to diagnose in dogs because the virus may not be detected in blood and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) after the first viremic stage of the disease. The purpose of this retrospective case series study was to describe 3 Tesla magnetic resonance imaging (3T MRI) findings in a sample of dogs with a confirmed diagnosis of tick-borne encephalomyelitis. Dogs were included if they had neurological signs consistent with tick-borne encephalomyelitis, history of a stay in endemic areas for tick-borne encephalomyelitis virus, 3T MRI of the brain and/or spinal cord, cerebrospinal fluid changes compatible with viral infection and positive antibody titers in cerebrospinal fluid or pathologic confirmation of tick-borne encephalomyelitis. Twelve dogs met inclusion criteria. Ten out of 12 patients had 3T MRI lesions at the time of presentation. One patient had persistent lesions in follow-up MRI. The 3T MRI findings included bilateral and symmetrical gray matter distributed lesions involving the thalamus, hippocampus, brain stem, basal nuclei, and ventral horn on the spinal cord. All lesions were hyperintense in T2-weighted sequences compared to white matter, iso- to hypointense in T1-weighted, nonenhancing, and had minimal or no mass effect or perilesional edema. Six patients survived while the remaining six dogs were euthanized. Necropsy revealed neuronophagia and gliosis of the gray matter of the affected regions seen in 3T MRI, in addition to the cerebellum. Findings from the current study indicated that tick-borne encephalomyelitis should be included in the differential diagnosis list for dogs with the above described 3T MRI characteristics.