Description

The Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association began publication in 1915 and is the most widely distributed veterinary medical journal. The mission of the JAVMA is to promote the science and art of veterinary medicine and to provide a forum for discussion and dissemination of ideas important to the profession.

Publisher details

American Veterinary Medical Association

Publications in this journal

• Prevention of fetal suffering during ovariohysterectomy of pregnant animals.

  Authors: Sara C White

  Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association. 240(10):1160-3.

• Pathology in practice.

  Authors: Patrick J Roady, Kuldeep Singh, Mallikarjuna S Basavarajappa

  Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association. 240(10):1169-71.

• Use of histologic margin evaluation to predict recurrence of cutaneous malignant tumors in dogs and cats after surgical excision.

  Authors: Filippo Scarpa, Silvia Sabattini, Laura Marconato, Ombretta Capitani, Maria Morini, Giuliano Bettini

  Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association. 240(10):1181-7.

  Objective-To assess the usefulness of histologic evaluation of surgical margins to predict local recurrence of cutaneous malignant tumors in dogs and cats treated by means of surgical excision.Objective-To assess the usefulness of histologic evaluation of surgical margins to predict local recurrence of cutaneous malignant tumors in dogs and cats treated by means of surgical excision. Design-Prospective case series. Animals-40 dogs and 20 cats. Procedures-60 surgically excised tumors (20 soft tissue sarcomas [STSs], 20 mast cell tumors [MCTs], and 20 carcinomas) were examined histologically. Margins were classified as clean, close, or infiltrated; histologic grade was assessed in STSs and MCTs. Recurrence rates and recurrence-free intervals (RFIs) during a 24-month follow-up period were recorded, and method accuracy was calculated. Results-Surgical margins were clean in 29 of 60 (48%) tumors, close in 11 (18%), and infiltrated in 20 (33%). Tumors recurred in 27 of 60 (45%) animals, with a mean ± SD RFI of 229 ± 173 days. Recurrence rates for animals that had tumors with infiltrated (16/20) or close (8/11) margins were significantly higher than recurrence rate for animals that had tumors with clean margins (3/29). Margin classification was a significant predictor of RFI. Accuracy of the method to predict recurrence was 94% for carcinomas, 87% for STSs, and 76% for MCTs. Conclusions and Clinical Relevance-Histologic assessment of margin status was useful for predicting local recurrence of cutaneous malignant tumors in dogs and cats treated by means of excision alone. Method accuracy varied among tumor types and grades. Recurrence times suggested postsurgical follow-up should continue for ≥ 2 years. Results were similar for animals with infiltrated and close tumor margins, and careful postsurgical management is recommended for both.

• Mitral valve repair under cardiopulmonary bypass in small-breed dogs: 48 cases (2006-2009).

  Authors: Masami Uechi, Takahiro Mizukoshi, Takeshi Mizuno, Masashi Mizuno, Kayoko Harada, Takashi Ebisawa, Junichirou Takeuchi, Tamotsu Sawada, Shuhei Uchida, Asako Shinoda, Arane Kasuya, Masaaki Endo, Miki Nishida, Shota Kono, Megumi Fujiwara, Takashi Nakamura

  Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association. 240(10):1194-201.

  Objective-To determine whether mitral valve repair (MVR) under cardiopulmonary bypass would be an effective treatment for mitral regurgitation in small-breed dogs. Design-Retrospective case series.Objective-To determine whether mitral valve repair (MVR) under cardiopulmonary bypass would be an effective treatment for mitral regurgitation in small-breed dogs. Design-Retrospective case series. Animals-48 small-breed dogs (body weight, 1.88 to 4.65 kg [4.11 to 10.25 lb]; age, 5 to 15 years) with mitral regurgitation that underwent surgery between August 2006 and August 2009. Procedures-Cardiopulmonary bypass was performed with a cardiopulmonary bypass circuit. After induction of cardiac arrest, a mitral annuloplasty was performed, and the chordae tendineae were replaced with expanded polytetrafluoroethylene chordal prostheses. After closure of the left atrium and declamping to restart the heart, the thorax was closed. Results-Preoperatively, cardiac murmur was grade 3 of 6 to 6 of 6, thoracic radiography showed cardiac enlargement (median vertebral heart size, 12.0 vertebrae; range, 9.5 to 14.5 vertebrae), and echocardiography showed severe mitral regurgitation and left atrial enlargement (median left atrium-to-aortic root ratio, 2.6; range, 1.7 to 4.0). 45 of 48 dogs survived to discharge. Three months after surgery, cardiac murmur grade was reduced to 0/6 to 3/6, and the heart shadow was reduced (median vertebral heart size, 11.1 vertebrae, range, 9.2 to 13.0 vertebrae) on thoracic radiographs. Echocardiography confirmed a marked reduction in mitral regurgitation and left atrium-to-aortic root ratio (median, 1.7; range, 1.0 to 3.0). Conclusions and Clinical Relevance-We successfully performed MVR under cardiopulmonary bypass in small-breed dogs, suggesting this may be an effective surgical treatment for dogs with mitral regurgitation. Mitral valve repair with cardiopulmonary bypass can be beneficial for the treatment of mitral regurgitation in small-breed dogs.

• Use of serial measurements of peritoneal fluid lactate concentration to identify strangulating intestinal lesions in referred horses with signs of colic.

  Authors: John G Peloso, Noah D Cohen

  Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association. 240(10):1208-17.

  Objective-To determine the value of serial measurements of peritoneal fluid lactate concentration (PFL) for detecting strangulating intestinal lesions (SLs) in referred horses with signs of colic.Objective-To determine the value of serial measurements of peritoneal fluid lactate concentration (PFL) for detecting strangulating intestinal lesions (SLs) in referred horses with signs of colic. Design-Retrospective cohort study. Animals-94 horses with signs of colic. Procedures-Medical records of horses evaluated between September 2006 and February 2010 because of signs of colic were reviewed. All included horses had ≥ 2 peritoneal fluid samples collected, including one at admission and another within 1 to 6 hours after admission. Of the 94 horses, 26 were assigned to the SL group on the basis of findings at surgery or necropsy and 68 were assigned to the nonstrangulating intestinal lesion group because their signs of colic resolved with medical management. Peritoneal fluid lactate concentration was measured by use of a handheld lactate monitor. Data were analyzed by use of univariable and multivariable logistic regression analysis. Results-PFL at admission > 4 mmol/L, an increase in PFL over time, and especially an increase in PFL over time in horses with a PFL < 4 mmol/L at admission (OR, 62; sensitivity, 95%; specificity, 77%) were significant predictors of horses with an SL. Conclusions and Clinical Relevance-Serially determined PFL was a strong predictor for differentiating horses with SLs from horses with nonstrangulating intestinal lesions. Given the high OR, sensitivity, and specificity of these tests, serially determined PFL may have potential as a screening test for identifying horses with SLs. Further evaluation of the clinical value of PFL for predicting SLs in a prospective, multicenter study is warranted.

• Effects of xylazine hydrochloride on hormonal, metabolic, and cardiorespiratory stress responses to lateral recumbency and claw trimming in dairy cows.

  Authors: Awad Rizk, Sarah Herdtweck, Henning Meyer, Jennifer Offinger, Adel Zaghloul, Juergen Rehage

  Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association. 240(10):1223-30.

  Objective-To investigate the hormonal, metabolic, and cardiorespiratory effects of xylazine hydrochloride on dairy cows undergoing lateral recumbency and claw trimming. Design-Prospective crossoverObjective-To investigate the hormonal, metabolic, and cardiorespiratory effects of xylazine hydrochloride on dairy cows undergoing lateral recumbency and claw trimming. Design-Prospective crossover study. Animals-6 healthy Holstein-Friesian cows. Procedures-Cows were treated with xylazine (0.05 mg/kg [0.023 mg/lb], IM) or an equal volume of saline (0.9% NaCl) solution 15 minutes before being placed in lateral recumbency for claw trimming. As a third treatment, cows also received xylazine (0.05 mg/kg, IM) but underwent no further manipulation. At preset time intervals, heart rate (HR), respiratory rate (RR), systolic arterial blood pressure, diastolic arterial blood pressure, mean arterial blood pressure (MAP), blood gas values, and plasma concentrations of cortisol, insulin, glucose, lactate, and nonesterified fatty acids (NEFA) were measured, and signs of sedation and ruminal bloat were recorded. Results-Saline solution treatment resulted in a temporary significant increase in SAP, diastolic arterial blood pressure, MAP, RR, and cortisol, lactate, and NEFA concentrations and a significant decrease in arterial oxygen saturation (Sao(2)). Xylazine treatment induced significant decreases in HR, RR, MAP, insulin and NEFA concentrations, and Sao(2) and induced significant increases in glucose concentration. Compared with saline solution treatment, HR, RR, MAP, Sao(2), and cortisol, lactate, and NEFA concentrations were significantly decreased with xylazine treatment. Xylazine treatment resulted in mild signs of sedation as well as clinically negligible ruminal bloat. Conclusions and Clinical Relevance-Xylazine administered in a low dose to cows preceding lateral recumbency for claw trimming decreased hormonal and metabolic stress responses, but augmented the respiratory depressive effect of lateral recumbency reflected by a decreased Pao and increased Paco(2).

• What is your diagnosis?

  Authors: Sonia S Crochik, Jamie McGill

  Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association. 240(10):1165-7.

• Pathology in practice.

  Authors: Jessica A Emerson, Brent E Walling, Julia K Whittington, Mitzi K Zarfoss

  Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association. 240(10):1175-7.

• Development and evaluation of a questionnaire for assessment of health-related quality of life in cats with cardiac disease.

  Authors: Lisa M Freeman, John E Rush, Mark A Oyama, Kristin A Macdonald, Suzanne M Cunningham, Barret Bulmer, John M Macgregor, Nancy J Laste, Rebecca L Malakoff, Daniel J Hall, Dennis J Trafny

  Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association. 240(10):1188-93.

  Objective-To develop, validate, and evaluate a questionnaire (Cats' Assessment Tool for Cardiac Health [CATCH] questionnaire) for assessing health-related quality of life in cats with cardiacObjective-To develop, validate, and evaluate a questionnaire (Cats' Assessment Tool for Cardiac Health [CATCH] questionnaire) for assessing health-related quality of life in cats with cardiac disease. Design-Prospective study. Animals-275 cats with cardiac disease. Procedures-The questionnaire was developed on the basis of clinical signs of cardiac disease in cats. A CATCH score was calculated by summing responses to questionnaire items; possible scores ranged from 0 to 80. For questionnaire validation, owners of 75 cats were asked to complete the questionnaire (10 owners completed the questionnaire twice). Disease severity was assessed with the International Small Animal Cardiac Health Council (ISACHC) classification for cardiac disease. Following validation, the final questionnaire was administered to owners of the remaining 200 cats. Results-Internal consistency of the questionnaire was good, and the CATCH score was significantly correlated with ISACHC classification. For owners that completed the questionnaire twice, scores were significantly correlated. During the second phase of the study, the CATCH score ranged from 0 to 74 (median, 7) and was significantly correlated with ISACHC classification. Conclusions and Clinical Relevance-Results suggested that the CATCH questionnaire is a valid and reliable method for assessing health-related quality of life in cats with cardiac disease. Further research is warranted to test the tool's sensitivity to changes in medical treatment and its potential role as a clinical and research tool.

• Use of a self-expanding metallic stent to palliate esophageal neoplastic obstruction in a dog.

  Authors: Katherine S Hansen, Chick Weisse, Allyson C Berent, Marilyn Dunn, Ana V Caceres, Kim L Todd, Jeremy S Diroff

  Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association. 240(10):1202-7.

  Case Description-An 11-year-old spayed female Collie was evaluated because of regurgitation, dysphagia, severe ptyalism, coughing, and weight loss of approximately 12 weeks' duration. EsophagealCase Description-An 11-year-old spayed female Collie was evaluated because of regurgitation, dysphagia, severe ptyalism, coughing, and weight loss of approximately 12 weeks' duration. Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma had been diagnosed prior to referral on the basis of results of radiographic and endoscopic examination and histologic evaluation of biopsy samples. A percutaneous endoscopically placed gastrostomy (PEG) tube had been inserted 2 weeks prior to referral, and the dog was being treated for infection at the gastrostomy site. Clinical Findings-Physical examination findings included marked ptyalism, stertor, and inflammation and discharge at the gastrostomy site. Treatment and Outcome-Surgical options were declined by the owner, and palliative treatment was chosen to alleviate clinical signs and facilitate PEG tube removal. With fluoroscopic guidance, a self-expanding metallic stent was placed in the esophageal lumen at the site of obstruction. Botulinum toxin A was injected into the mandibular salivary glands under ultrasonographic guidance as treatment for severe ptyalism. Following discharge, clinical improvement was reported until euthanasia for unrelated disease 12 weeks after stent placement. Necropsy revealed that the stent had not migrated and had remained patent with some tumor ingrowth but no evidence of stricture or obstruction. Clinical Relevance-Esophageal stenting effectively treated obstruction and improved clinical signs and may be beneficial for palliative treatment in other animals with malignant esophageal tumors. Although the degree to which botulinum toxin A injection into salivary glands improved clinical signs could not be determined, it may potentially be useful as adjunctive treatment to reduce severe ptyalism.

• Concurrent patellar fracture and lateral collateral ligament avulsion as a result of trauma in three horses.

  Authors: Jonathan McLellan, Sarah Plevin, Elizabeth Taylor

  Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association. 240(10):1218-22.

  Case Description-3 horses were evaluated because of lameness and swelling of the stifle joint subsequent to trauma. Clinical Findings-All horses had characteristic clinical signs of stifle joint painCase Description-3 horses were evaluated because of lameness and swelling of the stifle joint subsequent to trauma. Clinical Findings-All horses had characteristic clinical signs of stifle joint pain and effusion. A medial patellar fracture and lateral collateral ligament avulsion fracture were visible ultrasonographically in each. Radiography, including standard as well as flexed lateromedial, cranioproximal-craniodistal oblique (skyline patellar), and laterally stressed caudocranial views, revealed similar findings. Treatment and Outcome-Arthroscopic surgery to remove the patellar fracture was attempted in 1 horse with severe desmitis of the lateral collateral ligament; it remained lame afterward. The other 2 horses, with less severe collateral ligament damage, were managed conservatively and returned to athletic use, despite the lack of surgical intervention to repair the patellar fractures. Clinical Relevance-Special radiographic views were necessary for diagnosis of medial patellar fracture and lateral collateral ligament avulsion fracture in the 3 horses. Ultrasonographic findings pertaining to the collateral ligament may be prognostically important in such situations. The severity of a fracture involving ligament avulsion may be the limiting factor in horses with this combined injury, and this factor should be considered prior to attempting surgical correction of patellar fractures.

• Mucosal immune response in newborn Holstein calves that had maternally derived antibodies and were vaccinated with an intranasal multivalent modified-live virus vaccine.

  Authors: Kevin L Hill, Breck D Hunsaker, Hugh G Townsend, Sylvia van Drunen Littel-van den Hurk, Philip J Griebel

  Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association. 240(10):1231-40.

  Objective-To determine whether maternally derived antibodies interfere with the mucosal immune response following intranasal (IN) vaccination of newborn calves with a multivalent modified-live virusObjective-To determine whether maternally derived antibodies interfere with the mucosal immune response following intranasal (IN) vaccination of newborn calves with a multivalent modified-live virus vaccine. Design-Randomized controlled clinical trial. Animals-23 newborn Holstein bull calves. Procedures-Calves received colostrum and were assigned to group A (unvaccinated control calves), group B (IN vaccination on day 0), or group C (IN vaccination on days 0 and 35). Serum and nasal secretion sample (NSS) titers of antibodies specific for bovine herpesvirus 1, bovine viral diarrhea virus 1, and bovine viral diarrhea virus 2; WBC counts; and NSS interferon concentrations were determined up to day 77. Results-Calves had high serum titers of maternally derived antibodies specific for vaccine virus antigens on day 0. High IgA and low IgG titers were detected in NSSs on day 0; NSS titers of IgA decreased by day 5. Group B and C NSS IgA titers were significantly higher than those of group A on days 10 through 35; group C IgA titers increased after the second vaccination. Serum antibody titers decreased at a similar rate among groups of calves. Interferons were not detected in NSSs, and calves did not develop leukopenia. Conclusions and Clinical Relevance-IN vaccination of newborn calves with high concentrations of virus-neutralizing antibodies increased NSS IgA titers but did not change serum antibody titers. Revaccination of group C calves on day 35 induced IgA production. Intranasal vaccination with a modified-live virus vaccine was effective in calves that had maternally derived antibodies.

• What is your diagnosis?

  Authors: Mandy Wallace, Patty Lathan, Erin Brinkman-Ferguson

  Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association. 240(9):1063-5.

• Comparison of phenobarbital with bromide as a first-choice antiepileptic drug for treatment of epilepsy in dogs.

  Authors: Dawn Merton Boothe, Curtis Dewey, David Mark Carpenter

  Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association. 240(9):1073-83.

  Objective-To compare efficacy and safety of treatment with phenobarbital or bromide as the first-choice antiepileptic drug (AED) in dogs. Design-Double-blinded, randomized, parallel, clinical trial.Objective-To compare efficacy and safety of treatment with phenobarbital or bromide as the first-choice antiepileptic drug (AED) in dogs. Design-Double-blinded, randomized, parallel, clinical trial. Animals-46 AED-naïve dogs with naturally occurring epilepsy. Procedures-Study inclusion was based on age, history, findings on physical and neurologic examinations, and clinicopathologic test results. For either phenobarbital treatment (21 dogs) or bromide treatment (25), a 7-day loading dose period was initiated along with a maintenance dose, which was adjusted on the basis of monthly monitoring. Efficacy and safety outcomes were compared between times (baseline and study end [generally 6 months]) and between drugs. Results-Phenobarbital treatment resulted in eradication of seizures (17/20 [85%]) significantly more often than did bromide (12/23 [52%]); phenobarbital treatment also resulted in a greater percentage decrease in seizure duration (88 ± 34%), compared with bromide (49 ± 75%). Seizure activity worsened in 3 bromide-treated dogs only. In dogs with seizure eradication, mean ± SD serum phenobarbital concentration was 25 ± 6 μg/mL (phenobarbital dosage, 4.1 ± 1.1 mg/kg [1.9 ± 0.5 mg/lb], PO, q 12 h) and mean serum bromide concentration was 1.8 ± 0.6 mg/mL (bromide dosage, 31 ± 11 mg/kg [14 ± 5 mg/lb], PO, q 12 h). Ataxia, lethargy, and polydipsia were greater at 1 month for phenobarbital-treated dogs; vomiting was greater for bromide-treated dogs at 1 month and study end. Conclusions and Clinical Relevance-Both phenobarbital and bromide were reasonable first-choice AEDs for dogs, but phenobarbital was more effective and better tolerated during the first 6 months of treatment.

• Comparison of three-view thoracic radiography and computed tomography for detection of pulmonary nodules in dogs with neoplasia.

  Authors: Laura J Armbrust, David S Biller, Aubrey Bamford, Ruthanne Chun, Laura D Garrett, Michael W Sanderson

  Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association. 240(9):1088-94.

  Objective-To compare the detection of pulmonary nodules by use of 3-view thoracic radiography and CT in dogs with confirmed neoplasia. Design-Prospective case series. Animals-33 dogs of variousObjective-To compare the detection of pulmonary nodules by use of 3-view thoracic radiography and CT in dogs with confirmed neoplasia. Design-Prospective case series. Animals-33 dogs of various breeds. Procedures-3 interpreters independently evaluated 3-view thoracic radiography images. The location and size of pulmonary nodules were recorded. Computed tomographic scans of the thorax were obtained and evaluated by a single interpreter. The location, size, margin, internal architecture, and density of pulmonary nodules were recorded. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value were calculated for thoracic radiography (with CT as the gold standard). Results-21 of 33 (64%) dogs had pulmonary nodules or masses detected on CT. Of the dogs that had positive CT findings, 17 of 21 (81 %) had pulmonary nodules or masses detected on radiographs by at least 1 interpreter. Sensitivity of radiography ranged from 71 % to 95%, and specificity ranged from 67% to 92%. Radiography had a positive predictive value of 83% to 94% and a negative predictive value of 65% to 89%. The 4 dogs that were negative for nodules on thoracic radiography but positive on CT were all large-breed to giant-breed dogs with osteosarcoma. Conclusions and Clinical Relevance-CT was more sensitive than radiography for detection of pulmonary nodules. This was particularly evident in large-breed to giant-breed dogs. Thoracic CT is recommended in large-breed to giant-breed dogs with osteosarcoma if the detection of pulmonary nodules will change treatment.

• Gastroesophageal reflux and laryngeal dysfunction in a dog.

  Authors: Cassie N Lux, Todd M Archer, Kari V Lunsford

  Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association. 240(9):1100-3.

  Case Description-A 7-year-old neutered male Saint Bernard was evaluated because of a 6-month history of coughing, gagging, change in phonation, excessive panting, and chronic intermittent vomitingCase Description-A 7-year-old neutered male Saint Bernard was evaluated because of a 6-month history of coughing, gagging, change in phonation, excessive panting, and chronic intermittent vomiting and diarrhea. Clinical Findings-Physical examination revealed no remarkable findings other than panting. Total thyroxine concentration and results of a CBC, serum biochemistry analysis, urinalysis, and thoracic radiography were within reference limits. A laryngeal examination revealed edema, erythema, and ulceration of the larynx and pharynx, with normal laryngeal movement. Results of bronchoscopy and cytologic examination of bronchoalveolar lavage fluid were diagnostic only for distal tracheitis. Esophagoscopy and an esophagography revealed esophagitis consistent with gastroesophageal reflux. Gastroduodenoscopy and histologic examination of biopsy specimens revealed Helicobacter colonization and lymphocytic or plasmacytic enteritis. Treatment and Outcome-Following treatment for gastroesophageal reflux and suspected Helicobacter infection with combination antacid and antimicrobial treatment, the dog's respiratory signs resolved but vomiting continued. Gastroduodenoscopy revealed complete resolution of the previous laryngitis, pharyngitis, and esophagitis. Treatment for the lymphocytic or plasmacytic enteritis was initiated with prednisone (1 mg/kg [0.45 mg/lb], PO, q 12 h) and a novel protein diet. The previous treatment was also continued. Complete resolution of clinical signs was maintained 4 months after initiation of appropriate treatment. Clinical Relevance-Laryngeal dysfunction induced by gastroesophageal reflux as occurred in the patient described in this report is a previously undocumented association in the veterinary literature. This association could be a potential consideration in dogs with concurrent respiratory and gastrointestinal signs. The present report may provide a basis for further studies investigating this association.

• Comparison of radiography, nuclear scintigraphy, and magnetic resonance imaging for detection of specific conditions of the distal tarsal bones of horses: 20 cases (2006-2010).

  Authors: Alexander J Daniel, Carter E Judy, Mark C Rick, Travis C Saveraid, Douglas J Herthel

  Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association. 240(9):1109-14.

  Objective-To describe pathological findings identified with MRI in the distal tarsal bones of horses with unilateral hind limb lameness attributable to tarsal pain and to compare the usefulness ofObjective-To describe pathological findings identified with MRI in the distal tarsal bones of horses with unilateral hind limb lameness attributable to tarsal pain and to compare the usefulness of MRI with that of radiography and nuclear scintigraphy in evaluation of this region. Design-Retrospective case series. Animals-20 lame horses. Procedures-In all horses, MRI, radiography (4 standard projections), and nuclear scintigraphy of the tarsus had been performed. Horses were excluded if the results of all 3 imaging modalities were not available or if lameness was detected in more than 1 limb. Pathological changes identified with MRI were cross-referenced with the findings determined with other imaging modalities. Results-Compared with MRI findings, the following lesions were identified with radiography: medullary and subchondral bone sclerosis in 9 of 16 horses, pathological changes related to osseous hyperintensity in 0 of 10 horses, and osteoarthritis in 5 of 8 horses. Standard radiographic projections did not aid in the identification of fracture of the distal tarsal bones (3 horses). Location of increased radiopharmaceutical uptake with nuclear scintigraphy corresponded with the location of pathological changes detected with MRI in all horses. The intensity of the radiopharmaceutical uptake on nuclear scintigraphic images did not correspond with the severity of the pathological changes identified with MRI. Conclusions and Clinical Relevance-Radiography was unreliable for the detection of pathological changes related to osseous hyperintensity identified with MRI, fracture, and subchondral bone sclerosis in the equine tarsus. Nuclear scintigraphy was effective in localizing pathological changes, but MRI provided superior anatomic detail.

• What is your diagnosis?

  Authors: Thomas O'Brien, Christoph Koch, Michael A Livesey

  Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association. 240(9):1059-60.

• Pathology in practice.

  Authors: Brian G Caserto, Kelli A Almes

  Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association. 240(9):1067-9.

• Comparison of two assays for detection of antibodies against canine parvovirus and canine distemper virus in dogs admitted to a Florida animal shelter.

  Authors: Lauren K Gray, P Cynda Crawford, Julie K Levy, Edward J Dubovi

  Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association. 240(9):1084-7.

  Objective-To compare 2 assays for use in the identification of dogs with a protective antibody titer (PAT) against canine parvovirus (CPV) and canine distemper virus (CDV). Design-ProspectiveObjective-To compare 2 assays for use in the identification of dogs with a protective antibody titer (PAT) against canine parvovirus (CPV) and canine distemper virus (CDV). Design-Prospective cross-sectional study. Animals-431 dogs admitted to a municipal animal shelter in north central Florida. Procedures-Blood samples were collected from dogs on the day of admission to the shelter. Serum was obtained, criterion-referenced assays were used to identify dogs that had PATs against CPV (titers ≥ 80; hemagglutination inhibition assay) and CDV (titers ≥ 32; virus neutralization assay), and results were compared with results of a semiquantitative ELISA and an immunofluorescence assay (IFA). Results-For correct identification of dogs that had PATs against viruses, the ELISA had significantly higher specificity for CPV (98%) and CDV (95%) than did the IFA (82% and 70%, respectively) and had significantly lower sensitivity for CDV (88%) than did the IFA (97%); the sensitivity for CPV was similar (ELISA, 98%; IFA, 97%). Overall diagnostic accuracy was significantly greater with the ELISA than with the IFA. Predictive value of a positive result for PATs was significantly higher with the ELISA for CPV (99%) and CDV (93%) than with the IFA (92% and 71 %, respectively). Conclusions and Clinical Relevance-The ELISA had fewer false-positive results than did the IFA and could be performed on-site in shelters in < 1 hour. Accuracy and practicality of the ELISA may be useful for identifying the infection risk of dogs exposed during outbreaks attributable to CPV and CDV infections in shelters.

• Relationship between paradoxical breathing and pleural diseases in dyspneic dogs and cats: 389 cases (2001-2009).

  Authors: Kevin Le Boedec, Catherine Arnaud, Valérie Chetboul, Emilie Trehiou-Sechi, Jean-Louis Pouchelon, Vassiliki Gouni, Brice S Reynolds

  Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association. 240(9):1095-9.

  Objective-To determine the strength of the relationship between paradoxical breathing (PB) and spontaneous pleural diseases in dyspneic dogs and cats. Design-Cross-sectional study. Animals-Dogs (n =Objective-To determine the strength of the relationship between paradoxical breathing (PB) and spontaneous pleural diseases in dyspneic dogs and cats. Design-Cross-sectional study. Animals-Dogs (n = 195) and cats (194) with a recorded diagnosis of dyspnea examined at the National Veterinary Schools of Alfort and Toulouse (France) between January 2001 and October 2009. Procedures-Dogs and cats were divided into 2 groups according to the presence or absence of PB. Stratified analysis by species was performed. Signalment of affected animals and occurrence of PB were recorded. The relationship between PB and pleural diseases among dyspneic dogs and cats was analyzed. Results-A strong relationship between PB and pleural diseases was highlighted in multivariate analysis (dogs, OR = 12.6 and 95% confidence interval = 4.6 to 31.2; cats, OR = 14.1 and 95% confidence interval = 6.0 to 33.5). Paradoxical breathing prevalence among dyspneic dogs and cats was 27% and 64%, respectively. Occurrence of pleural diseases in dyspneic animals with and without PB was 49% and 9% in dogs and 66% and 13% in cats, respectively. The sensitivity and specificity of PB as a predictor of pleural diseases were 0.67 and 0.83 in dyspneic dogs and 0.90 and 0.58 in dyspneic cats, respectively. The positive and negative predictive values of PB were 0.49 and 0.91 in dyspneic dogs and 0.66 and 0.87 in dyspneic cats, respectively. Age, sex, feline breeds, and canine morphotypes in patients with PB were not significantly different from those of other dyspneic animals. Conclusions and Clinical Relevance-PB was strongly associated with pleural diseases in dyspneic dogs and cats. The presence of this clinical sign should prompt small animal practitioners to implement appropriate emergency procedures and guide their diagnostic strategy.

• Treatment of dematiaceous fungal keratitis in a dog.

  Authors: Jonathan D Pucket, Rachel A Allbaugh, Amy J Rankin

  Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association. 240(9):1104-8.

  Case Description-A 9-year-old castrated male Bichon Frise was evaluated because of a 3-week history of a nonhealing corneal ulcer and corneal pigmentation of the left eye. ClinicalCase Description-A 9-year-old castrated male Bichon Frise was evaluated because of a 3-week history of a nonhealing corneal ulcer and corneal pigmentation of the left eye. Clinical Findings-Ophthalmic examination of the left eye revealed conjunctival hyperemia, corneal neovascularization, corneal edema, corneal ulceration, and central corneal pigmentation. Intraocular structures of the left eye could not be visually examined because of the diffuse nature of the corneal lesions. The right eye had anterior cortical incipient cataracts, nuclear sclerosis, and an inactive chorioretinal scar. Treatment and Outcome-Superficial lamellar keratectomy of the left eye was performed for both therapeutic and diagnostic purposes. Histologic evaluation of corneal biopsy specimens revealed dematiaceous fungal keratitis of the left eye, and topical administration of voriconazole was used to successfully resolve the keratitis. Seven months after diagnosis of dematiaceous fungal keratitis, the dog had no clinical signs or history of recurrence of the keratitis. Clinical Relevance-Dematiaceous fungal keratitis should be considered as a possible cause of nonhealing corneal ulceration with heavy pigment deposition in dogs. Results suggested that lamellar keratectomy along with topical administration of voriconazole can be used successfully to treat dematiaceous fungal keratitis in dogs.

• What is your diagnosis?

  Authors: Joseph P Greene, Federica Morandi, Jennifer E Wells

  Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association. 240(8):945-6.

• Pathology in practice.

  Authors: Marcia R S Ilha, Shelley J Newman

  Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association. 240(8):953-5.

• Transdiaphragmatic extension of a retroperitoneal lipoma into the intrathoracic extrapleural space via the lumbocostal trigone in a dog.

  Authors: Emily S Klosterman, Hock Gan Heng, Lynetta J Freeman, Michael O Childress

  Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association. 240(8):978-82.

  Case Description-An 8-year-old 12.2-kg (26.9-lb) spayed female American Cocker Spaniel was referred for evaluation of abdominal discomfort and a suspected intra-abdominal lipoma with possibleCase Description-An 8-year-old 12.2-kg (26.9-lb) spayed female American Cocker Spaniel was referred for evaluation of abdominal discomfort and a suspected intra-abdominal lipoma with possible invasion into the thorax. Clinical Findings-Physical examination revealed a tense abdomen, and the margins of a large abdominal mass could be appreciated. Abdominal imaging revealed a mass of fat opacity in the abdominal and thoracic cavities. Computed tomography with precontrast and postcontrast peritoneograms was used to determine whether the masses connected via a diaphragmatic defect. Treatment and Outcome-Exploratory laparotomy revealed a retroperitoneal lipomatous mass that had focally invaded the hypaxial musculature and had extended across the dorsolateral aspect of the diaphragm via the lumbocostal trigone into the intrathoracic extrapleural space. Surgical resection required transdiaphragmatic thoracotomy. Histologic examination of excised tissue confirmed the preoperative diagnosis of a lipoma. The dog recovered from surgery with no complications and had no disease recurrence for at least 32 months after surgical resection. Clinical Relevance-The defect of the lumbocostal trigone is also called the foramen of Bochdalek in humans, and it is recognized as a common location for congenital diaphragmatic hernia. A lumbocostal trigone hernia may be considered as a differential diagnosis for bicavitary masses in dogs, particularly in the absence of a history of trauma.

Data provided are for informational purposes only. Although carefully collected, accuracy cannot be guaranteed. The impact factor represents a rough estimation of the journal's impact factor and does not reflect the actual current impact factor. Publisher conditions are provided by RoMEO. Differing provisions from the publisher's actual policy or licence agreement may be applicable.