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BackgroundFecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) is increasingly used for gastrointestinal and extra-gastrointestinal diseases in veterinary medicine. However, its effects on immune responses and possible adverse events have not been systematically investigated.Hypothesis/objectivesDetermine the short-term safety profile and changes in the peripheral immune system after a single FMT administration in healthy dogs.AnimalsTen client-owned, clinically healthy dogs as FMT recipients, and 2 client-owned clinically healthy dogs as FMT donors.MethodsProspective non-randomized clinical trial. A single rectal enema of 5 g/kg was given to clinically healthy canine recipients. During the 28 days after FMT administration, owners self-reported adverse events and fecal scores. On Days 0 (baseline), 1, 4, 10, and 28 after FMT, fecal and blood samples were collected. The canine fecal dysbiosis index (DI) was calculated using qPCR.ResultsNo significant changes were found in the following variables: CBC, serum biochemistry, C-reactive protein, serum cytokines (interleukins [IL]-2, -6, -8, tumor necrosis factor [TNF]-α), peripheral leukocytes (B cells, T cells, cluster of differentiation [CD]4+ T cells, CD8+ T cells, T regulatory cells), and the canine DI. Mild vomiting (n = 3), diarrhea (n = 4), decreased activity (n = 2), and inappetence (n = 1) were reported, and resolved without intervention.Conclusions and clinical importanceFecal microbiota transplantation did not significantly alter the evaluated variables and recipients experienced minimal adverse events associated with FMT administration. Fecal microbiota transplantation was not associated with serious adverse events, changes in peripheral immunologic variables, or the canine DI in the short-term.

BACKGROUND: Occurrence of low blood taurine concentrations (B-TauC) and predisposing factors to taurine deficiency in English Cocker Spaniels (ECS) are incompletely understood. OBJECTIVES: Investigate the occurrence of low B-TauC in a Swedish population of ECS and evaluate the association between B-TauC and dog characteristics, clinical variables, and diet composition. ANIMALS: One-hundred eighty privately owned ECS. METHODS: Dogs were prospectively recruited and underwent physical examination, blood analyses, and echocardiographic and ophthalmic examinations. Dogs with clinical signs of congestive heart failure (CHF) also underwent thoracic radiography. Taurine concentrations were analyzed in plasma (EDTA and heparin) and whole blood. Diets consumed by the dogs at the time of the examination were analyzed for dietary taurine- (D-TauC), cysteine- (D-CysC), and methionine concentrations (D-MetC). RESULTS: Fifty-three of 180 dogs (29%) had low B-TauC, of which 13 (25%) dogs had clinical and radiographic signs of CHF, increased echocardiographic left ventricular (LV) dimensions and volumes, and impaired LV systolic function. Five (9%) dogs with low B-TauC had retinal abnormalities. Dietary MetC, dietary animal protein source (red/white meat), and age were associated with B-TauC in the final multivariable regression model (P

BACKGROUND: Effects of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) inhibitors enalapril and telmisartan on circulating RAAS in dogs with proteinuric chronic kidney disease (pCKD) are undescribed. OBJECTIVES: To characterize the RAAS in untreated dogs with pCKD compared to healthy, life-stage- and sex-matched controls, and in dogs with pCKD after 30 days of treatment with enalapril or telmisartan. ANIMALS: Dogs with pCKD (n = 36) and healthy controls (n = 20). METHODS: Retrospective study of banked samples and previously collected data. Day 0 serum equilibrium concentrations of angiotensin I, II, III, IV, 1-5, and 1-7, and aldosterone, and urinary aldosterone-to-creatinine ratio (UACR) from pCKD dogs were compared to values on day 30 of treatment with enalapril (0.5 mg/kg PO q12) or telmisartan (1 mg/kg PO q24h) and to those of healthy dogs. Data were analyzed using linear mixed models. RESULTS: Compared with healthy dogs, pCKD dogs had significantly higher Ang I, III, 1-5, and 1-7 concentrations, and UACR. Relative to pretreatment values, day 30 Ang II concentrations were significantly increased and decreased in telmisartan- and enalapril-treated pCKD dogs, respectively (both P

BACKGROUND: Recurrent bacterial cystitis, often referred to as recurrent urinary tract infection (UTI), can be difficult to manage and alternative treatments are needed. HYPOTHESIS/OBJECTIVE: Intravesicular administration of asymptomatic bacteriuria (ASB) E. coli 212 will not be inferior to antimicrobial treatment for the management of recurrent UTI in dogs. ANIMALS: Thirty-four dogs with >1 UTI in the 12 months before presentation. METHODS: All dogs were deemed normal otherwise based on absence of abnormalities on physical examination, CBC, serum biochemical panel, and abdominal ultrasonography. Dogs were randomized to 1 of 2 treatment groups: Group 1 antimicrobials for 7 days or group 2 intravesicular administration of ASB E. coli 212. Owners were provided a voiding questionnaire regarding their dogs clinical signs, which was completed daily for 14 days to assess clinical cure. Dogs were examined on days 7 and 14 to assess clinical cure, and urine specimens were submitted for urinalysis and bacterial culture. RESULTS: Clinical cure rates for ASB E. coli 212-treated dogs were not inferior to 7 days of antimicrobial treatment with a 12% margin of difference to determine non-inferiority. No significant difference was found between the treatment groups on days 7 and 14 in the proportion of dogs achieving ≥50% or ≥75% reduction in their clinical score compared with baseline. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE: These data suggest that intravesicular administration of ASB E. coli 212 is not inferior to antimicrobials for the treatment of recurrent UTI in dogs. This biotherapeutic agent could help alleviate the need for antimicrobials for some dogs with recurrent UTI, improving antimicrobial stewardship.

BACKGROUND: Urethral diverticulum (UD) is a poorly defined anomaly consisting of an outpouching of the urethra. Management without surgical resection is not previously reported in dogs. HYPOTHESIS/OBJECTIVES: Report the outcome of male dogs presented for urinary incontinence with UD treated with an artificial urethral sphincter (AUS). ANIMALS: Eight client-owned dogs with UD treated with an AUS. METHODS: Multicenter retrospective study. Medical records from male dogs with urinary incontinence were reviewed. INCLUSION CRITERIA:  diagnosis of a UD by retrograde cystourethrography, cystoscopy, abdominal ultrasonography or contrast computed tomodensitometry (CT) or a combination of these modalities, AUS placement, and at least 1 follow-up. Urinary continence score (UCS) was attributed retrospectively. RESULTS: Median UCS at presentation was 1/5. A contrast cystourethrogram was diagnostic in 8/8 dogs. All diverticula were saccular, and 7/8 were within the prostatic urethra and 1/8 extended up to the membranous urethra. A congenital origin was suspected in 7 dogs and acquired in 1. Concurrent anomalies included renal dysplasia or chronic pyelonephritis (n = 4), bilateral cryptorchidism (n = 3), and pelvic urinary bladder (n = 3). All dogs were poorly/moderately responsive to phenylpropanolamine. Artificial urethral sphincter placement resulted in improvement in continence in all dogs with a median UCS of 4/5 (5/5 in 2/8 dogs, 4/5 in 5/8 dogs, 3/5 in 1/8 dogs). CONCLUSION: Urethral diverticulum should be considered in male dogs with persistent urinary incontinence not responding to medical management. Artificial urethral sphincter placement is an effective therapeutic option that improved continence scores in all dogs.

BACKGROUND: Pulmonary hypertension (PH) in dogs with myxomatous mitral valve disease (MMVD) is caused by increased pulmonary venous pressure. Thrombosis, vascular remodeling, and vasoconstriction mediated by platelets could exacerbate PH. HYPOTHESIS: Dogs with PH will exhibit a hypercoagulable state, characterized by increased platelet activation, platelet-leukocyte, and platelet-neutrophil aggregate formation. ANIMALS: Eleven dogs (≥3.5 kg) diagnosed with MMVD and PH and 10 dogs with MMVD lacking PH. METHODS: Prospective cohort ex vivo study. All dogs underwent echocardiographic examination, CBC, 3-view thoracic radiographs, and heartworm antigen testing. Severity of PH and MMVD were assessed by echocardiography. Viscoelastic monitoring of coagulation was assessed using thromboelastography (TEG). Platelet activation and platelet-leukocyte/platelet-neutrophil interactions were assessed using flow cytometry. Plasma serotonin concentrations were measured by ELISA. RESULTS: Unstimulated platelets from dogs with MMVD and PH expressed more surface P-selectin than MMVD controls (P = .03). Platelets from dogs with MMVD and PH had persistent activation in response to agonists. The number of platelet-leukocyte aggregates was higher in dogs with MMVD and PH compared with MMVD controls (P = .01). Ex vivo stimulation of whole blood resulted in higher numbers of platelet-neutrophil aggregates in dogs with MMVD and PH (P = .01). Assessment of hypercoagulability based on TEG or plasma serotonin concentrations did not differ between groups. CONCLUSION AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE: Platelet hyperresponsiveness and increased platelet-neutrophil interaction occur in dogs with MMVD and PH, suggesting that platelets play a role of in the pathogenesis of PH. Clinical benefits of antiplatelet drugs in dogs with MMVD and PH require further investigation.

BACKGROUND: Sliding hiatal herniation (SHH) and gastroesophageal reflux (GER) commonly occur in French bulldogs. Wireless pH monitoring can quantitatively assess acidic GER in dogs affected by SHH. HYPOTHESIS/OBJECTIVES: Measure acidic GER in French bulldogs with SHH, pre- and post-brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS) surgery, utilizing a wireless pH capsule (Bravo Calibration-free, Medtronic, Minnesota), and correlate with owners observations of regurgitation. ANIMALS: Eleven French bulldogs diagnosed with SHH via swallowing fluoroscopy. METHODS: Prospective cohort study. A pH capsule was endoscopically placed in the esophagus. Up to 96 hours of data were acquired as the owner logged clinical signs. Spearmans correlation and Wilcoxon rank-sum tests evaluated factors correlated with acid exposure time (AET), defined by the % time pH

BACKGROUND: Fibrocartilaginous embolic myelopathy (FCE) is a well-documented condition in dogs although rarely reported in chondrodystrophic breeds. Genetic associations have not been defined. OBJECTIVES: Define the association of the chondrodystrophy-associated FGF4L2 retrogene with histopathologically confirmed cases of FCE. ANIMALS: Ninety-eight dogs with a histopathologic diagnosis of FCE. METHODS: Retrospective multicenter study. Dogs were genotyped for the FGF4L2 and FGF4L1 retrogenes using DNA extracted from formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissue. Associations between breed, FCE and retrogene status were investigated with reference to a hospital population and known breed and general population allele frequencies. RESULTS: FGF4L2 genotype was defined in 89 FCE cases. Fibrocartilaginous embolic myelopathy was present in 22 dogs from FGF4L2-segregating breeds with allele frequencies of ≥5%; however, all dogs were wild type. Two Labrador retrievers with FCE carried FGF4L2 alleles. Frequency of the FGF4L2 allele was significantly (P

BACKGROUND: Giardia duodenalis (Gd) causes intestinal parasitosis. The involvement of the intestinal microbiome in determining the infections clinical phenotype is unknown. OBJECTIVE: Investigate the fecal microbiome features in dogs with giardiasis. ANIMALS AND METHODS: Cross-sectional study, including fecal samples of kenneled dogs with Gd diagnosed by fecal Giardia antigen dot ELISA. The fecal microbial compositional characteristics and dysbiosis index (DI) were compared between diarrheic and nondiarrheic dogs. RESULTS: Fecal samples of 38 Gd-infected dogs (diarrheic, 21; nondiarrheic, 17) were included. No differences were found in Faiths phylogenic diversity and beta diversity (weighted UniFrac distances) and in specific taxa abundances at the phylum, genus, and species levels, as well as in alpha and beta diversities between diarrheic and nondiarrheic dogs, and also when divided by sex or age. Among diarrheic dogs, alpha diversity was higher in males than in females (pairwise Kruskal-Wallis, q = 0.01). Among males, fecal abundances of the genus Clostridium (W = 19) and Clostridium spiroforme species (W = 33) were higher in diarrheic compared to nondiarrheic dogs. In diarrheic dog fecal samples, Proteobacteria were more prevalent (W = 1), whereas Verrucomicrobia were less prevalent in dogs

Background Objective Animals Methods Results Conclusions and Clinical Relevance Knowledge about primary hypoadrenocorticism coexisting with immune‐mediated thyroiditis (Schmidt's syndrome) in dogs is limited.To evaluate thyroid function in dogs with naturally occurring hypoadrenocorticism before and during treatment.Sixty‐six client‐owned dogs.Measurement of canine thyroid stimulating hormone (cTSH), total thyroxine (T4), free thyroxine, and autoantibodies against thyroglobulin, T4, and total triiodothyronine.Thirty‐eight dogs were assessed before and 28 during treatment. Follow‐up data were available for 24/38 and 17/28 dogs, with median follow‐up duration of 3.8 years (range, <1.0‐8.8 years) and 4 years (range, 1.1 weeks to 10.5 years), respectively. Canine thyroid stimulating hormone was above the reference range at the time of diagnosis of hypoadrenocorticism in 10 of 38 dogs but decreased into the reference range in 7 for which follow‐up data was available. Hypothyroidism was confirmed in 5 dogs at a median age of 11 years (range, 7‐15 years). In 4 dogs, the condition was diagnosed after a median treatment duration of 5.75 years (range, 2.6‐10 years), while in 1 dog, the diagnosis was made concurrently. One dog had detectable thyroid autoantibodies.Hypothyroidism occurs as a rare concurrent condition in dogs with hypoadrenocorticism, potentially at any phase of treatment. Close monitoring of cTSH levels in these dogs could be beneficial, as early changes might indicate the onset of hypothyroidism. The low prevalence of detectable thyroid autoantibodies suggests that nonimmune mechanisms might contribute to thyroid dysfunction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Objectives Animals Methods Results Conclusions and Clinical Importance Esomeprazole use is increasing in dogs, but the gastrointestinal adverse events associated with q12h dosing necessitate pharmacodynamic evaluation of a reduced dose and frequency of administration.To compare the efficacy of 2 doses of (q24h) esomeprazole in raising intragastric pH in dogs.Nine healthy, client‐owned dogs, >20 kg.Prospective, randomized, double blinded, crossover study. Esomeprazole (0.5 or 1 mg/kg q24h) was orally administered for up to 5 days per treatment arm, and the mean percentage time intragastric pH was ≥3 (MPT3) and ≥4 (MPT4) for 24 hours periods were compared to pretreatment pH using a continuous pH monitoring system. Dogs failing to reach pH goals (MPT3 ≥75%, MPT4 ≥66%) with once daily dosing received esomeprazole 1 mg/kg PO q12h to determine if a higher dose would improve acid suppression.No significant difference in the MPT3 or MPT4 was identified between treatments for any time point (P > .05). Both doses increased the MPT pH ≥3 and 4 median [range] (0.5 mg/kg, 1 mg/kg) on days 1 (MPT3: 76.8% [44‐100], 69.2% [28.2‐100]; MPT4: 65.6% [16.7‐99.3], 54.9% [14.9‐93.3]; P = .0009) and 2 (MPT3:77.2% [27.4‐100], 75.4% [49.4‐89.5]; MPT4: 66.3% [15.5‐100], 59.7% [33.8‐81.2]; P = .0005) of PPI treatment compared to pretreatment (MPT3: 58.3% [0.02‐93.9], 52.6% [6.1‐94.7]; MPT4: 25.2% [0‐86.8], 32.4% [1.8‐89.3]). Six dogs (66%, [0.36, 0.97]) reached pH goals established in humans with q24h dosing.Both q24h PO esomeprazole doses were effective in raising intragastric pH, despite high intersubject variability, but 33% of dogs required q12h dosing to reach pH goals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Hypothesis/Objectives Animals Materials and Methods Results Conclusions and Clinical Importance Dogs with internal hydrocephalus do not necessarily have high intraventricular pressure (IVP).Not all reported MRI findings indicate high IVP and some clinical signs might be associated with elevated IVP and syringomyelia.Fifty‐three dogs.Cross‐sectional study. Clinical signs and MRI findings were evaluated for an association of IVP >12 mm Hg and syringomyelia.High IVP was associated with obtundation OR 4.64 (95% CI 1.27‐16.93) (P = .02), head tilt OR 6.42 (95% CI 1.08‐37.97) (P = .04) and nystagmus OR 8.24 (95% CI 1.44‐47.07) (P = .02). Pain was associated with syringomyelia OR 3.4 (95% CI 0.98‐11.78) (P = .05). The number of affected ventricles was associated with high IVP OR 2.85 (95% CI 0.97‐8.33) (P = .05) and syringomyelia OR 12.74 (95% CI 2.93‐55.4) (P = .0007). Periventricular edema OR 24.46 (95% CI 4.54‐131.77), OR 7.61 (95% CI 1.91‐30.32) (P < .0002, P = .004) and signal void sign OR 17.34 (95% CI 4.01‐74.95), OR 4.18 (95% CI 1.16‐15.02) (P < .0001, P = .03) were associated with high IVP and syringomyelia. The probability for syringomyelia is lower with disruption of the internal capsule OR 0.19 (95% CI 0.05‐0.72) (P = .01) and higher VBR OR 0.25 (95% CI 0.1‐0.63) (P = .004).Previously reported MRI findings are not predictive of high IVP. Clinical signs and MRI findings should be used to make a diagnosis of internal hydrocephalus in dogs with or without high IVP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Hypothesis Animals Methods Results Conclusion and Clinical Importance Oxidative stress is a potential contributor to chronic kidney disease (CKD) progression but has not been evaluated in dogs and cats with CKD.Oxidative stress is higher in animals with CKD compared with healthy controls and decreases with the advancing CKD stage. The aim of this study was to determine the presence and intensity of oxidative stress in dogs and cats at different CKD stages.Sixty dogs and 30 cats with naturally acquired CKD; 10 dogs and 14 cats, healthy controls.Analytical cross‐sectional study. Oxidative stress was evaluated by measuring the urinary concentration of F2‐isoprostane (uF2‐IsoPs) normalized to urinary creatinine.Urinary F2‐isoprostanes normalized to urinary creatinine of healthy dogs and of dogs with CKD Stages 1 to 4 was 3.3 ng/mg, 4.7 ng/mg (range, 1.0‐73.4), 2.4 ng/mg (range, 0.4‐7.8), 0.52 ng/mg (range, 0.01‐2.9), and 0.37 ng/mg (range, 0.01‐0.6), respectively. Urinary F2‐isoprostanes differed among CKD stages (P < .001), but not compared with controls. uF2‐IsoPs of healthy cats and cats with CKD Stages 1 to 4 was 0.68 ng/mg (range, 0.2‐1.4), 0.97 ng/mg (range, 0.4‐1.8), 0.6 ng/mg (range, 0.002‐2.0), 0.94 ng/mg (range, 0.3‐2.3), and 0.2 ng/mg (range, 0.01‐0.4). Urinary F2‐isoprostanes differed among stages (P = .05) but not compared with healthy controls.Oxidative stress might be present in dogs and cats with CKD. Its magnitude declines as the disease progresses, therefore, it should be considered a potential therapeutic target mostly at the early stages of the disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The document contains the proceedings of the 34th Symposium of the European College of Veterinary Neurology and the Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, featuring abstracts of research presentations on various topics related to veterinary neurology. Studies discussed include the efficacy of azathioprine and prednisolone in treating meningoencephalomyelitis of unknown origin in dogs, the genetic origin of metabolic disorders in Yorkshire terriers, and the removal of intracranial foreign bodies in dogs. The document also covers cases of encephalopathy in a European brown bear cub, mycotic discospondylitis in a German Shepherd, and oligodendroglioma in a boxer, among other neurological conditions in dogs and cats. Additionally, the establishment of a companion animal brain bank in the UK and the socioeconomic burden of intervertebral disc herniation in dogs are discussed. [Extracted from the article]

Background Objective Animals Methods Results Conclusion and Clinical Importance Limited information is available regarding the clinical features, treatment, and prognosis of neosporosis in adult dogs.Describe the clinical signs, laboratory findings, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings, treatment and outcome in adult dogs (>6 months) diagnosed with neosporosis based on consistent clinical signs and positive serology (titer ≥1 : 800) at a referral hospital in Sydney, Australia.Twenty‐one client‐owned dogs.Retrospective case series of affected dogs between 2010 and 2023. Survival times were determined from onset of clinical signs to date of death or censoring.Clinical signs varied, and were indicative of generalized myopathy (6 dogs), multifocal intracranial disease (7 dogs), myelopathy (4 dogs), polyneuropathy (2 dogs) and single cases of focal myopathy and cerebellar disease. Serum creatine kinase activity was markedly increased (median, 3369 U/L) in most dogs. The most common MRI abnormalities were multifocal intracranial abnormalities (7/13 dogs) and muscle changes (5/13 dogs) whereas T2‐weighted cerebellar abnormalities (2/13 dogs) and cerebellar atrophy (1/13) were less common. Treatment response was complete (resolution to normal) in 8 dogs, incomplete (persistent neurological deficits) in 6 dogs, but there was minimal response in 7 dogs. Thirteen dogs (62%) were alive after 6 months and 12 dogs (57%) alive after 1 year. Relapse was common, with 4 dogs experiencing at least 1 relapse event during the follow‐up period.Adult‐onset neosporosis is uncommon and has variable clinical presentations. Treatment response also is variable, and relapse can occur, even among patients that respond completely to initial treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Hypothesis/Objectives Animals Methods Results Conclusion and Clinical Importance Dorsomedian nasopharyngeal masses with benign macroscopic appearance are frequently observed during retrograde nasopharyngoscopy, particularly in brachycephalic breeds, but are not well described.To characterize these masses, assess their frequency, and identify the potential factors associated with their presence.Dogs that underwent retrograde nasopharyngoscopy at a private hospital.Medical records between November 2019 and October 2022 were retrospectively reviewed. Dogs were included if suitable nasopharynx images were available for review. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to determine the factors associated with these masses.One‐hundred ninety‐eight dogs met the inclusion criteria of which 47.9% (95/198) had a dorsal nasopharyngeal mass. The masses measured <10%, 10%‐30%, and >30% of the nasopharyngeal height in 64.2% (61/95), 28.4% (27/95), and 7.4% (7/95) of cases, respectively. Univariable analysis identified associations between the presence of a nasopharyngeal mass and several factors: brachycephalic conformation (P < .001), sleep disturbances (P = .04), presence of laryngeal collapse (P = .01), and aberrant caudal turbinates (P = .04). However, according to the multivariable analysis, only the association between the presence of a mass and brachycephalic conformation was significant (odds ratio = 2.3 [1.1; 5.0], P = .03).Dorsomedian nasopharyngeal masses were common in the studied dog population. These masses are mostly small and have the same appearance across breeds. Brachycephalic conformation appears to be associated with the presence of a mass. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Objectives Animals Methods Results Conclusions and Clinical Importance Information regarding response rate to tigilanol tiglate for mast cell tumors in dogs is limited.Report the response rate and durability of tigilanol tiglate intratumoral treatment in dogs with mast cell tumors presented to veterinary oncologists.One hundred forty‐nine dogs; 151 individual tumors.Multicenter, retrospective survey‐based study. Veterinary oncologists subscribed to the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine (ACVIM) oncology listserv were solicited for information from dogs treated with tigilanol tiglate. An electronic survey was used to collect information at initial treatment, 1 month and 1 year after treatment.Most tumors were cutaneous, occurred on the limbs and were cytologically low grade. Seventy‐five percent of dogs achieved a complete response after 1 dose of tigilanol tiglate 1 month after treatment. This response was durable at 1 year in 64% of dogs for which data were available (n = 88). Wound formation, an expectation after treatment, occurred after a median of 7 days (range, 1‐91 days), with a median wound area of 4.71 cm2 (range, 0.09‐100 cm2). Wounds took a median of 30 days to heal completely (range, 14‐154 days). A moderate association between tumor volume and wound size was confirmed.Tigilanol tiglate is an effective local treatment option for mast cell tumors in dogs with a predictable clinical course and response. Because of the unique mode of action and clinical course, client education and careful case selection is necessary before electing tigilanol tiglate for local treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Hypothesis Animals Methods Results Conclusions and Clinical Importance The relationship between collapse and a diagnosis of hypoadrenocorticism is not well understood in dogs.To assess the prevalence of episodes of collapse in dogs screened for hypoadrenocorticism, and to assess the prevalence of confirmed hypoadrenocorticism in dogs presenting with reported collapse.Seventy‐three client‐owned dogs with resting cortisol concentrations were measured and presented to a University teaching hospital for collapse.Retrospective review of medical records of dogs at a single center.The prevalence of episodes of collapse in dogs that had a resting cortisol measurement was 73/856 (8.5%; 95% confidence interval [95% CI], 6.7%‐10.6%). Resting cortisol concentration was <2 μg/dL (<55 nmol/L) in 19 dogs. Cortisol concentration after ACTH stimulation was <2 μg/dL (<55 nmol/L) in 1 of the 73 dogs in this cohort, consistent with a diagnosis of hypoadrenocorticism, giving a prevalence estimate of hypoadrenocorticism of 1.3% (95% CI, 0.15%‐6.2%). In 8 dogs with an initial resting cortisol concentration <2 μg/dL (<55 nmol/L), hypoadrenocorticism was excluded based on a repeat resting cortisol concentration >2 μg/dL (>55 nmol/L). The most common diagnosis was vasovagal syncope (10/73), followed by sick sinus syndrome and third‐degree atrioventricular block (2/73). The final diagnosis was unknown in 24/73 dogs.Hypoadrenocorticism was the final diagnosis in 1 of 73 dogs presented to a teaching hospital either in a collapsed state or with a previous history of episodes of collapse. No dog presenting as cardiovascularly stable for intermittent collapse was found to have hypoadrenocorticism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Objectives Animals Methods Results Conclusions and Clinical Importance Peripheral nodal B‐cell lymphomas (PNBCL) represent the most common presentation of lymphomas in dogs. Multiagent CHOP (C = cyclophosphamide, H = hydroxydaunorubicin [Doxorubicin], O = Oncovin, P = prednisolone)‐based chemotherapy protocols have been widely accepted as gold standard 1st‐line treatment. CHOP‐25 and CHOP‐19 are most commonly prescribed but have never been directly compared.Our primary aim was to compare outcomes of dogs diagnosed with PNBCL, treated using a 1st‐line CHOP‐19 or CHOP‐25 protocol. A secondary objective was to determine the impact of protocol‐related variables on outcomes.Five hundred two dogs from 16 European oncology referral centers. One hundred fifty‐five dogs were treated with CHOP‐19 and 347 dogs with CHOP‐25.Retrospective, multicentric cohort study of dogs diagnosed with PNBCL between 2014 and 2021.The 6‐month, 1‐year, and median progression‐free survival (PFS) were 56.5% (95% confidence interval [CI], 49.2‐65.0), 14.1% (95% CI, 9.4‐21.0), and 196 days (95% CI, 176‐233) with CHOP‐19; and 56.4% (95% CI, 51.4‐61.9), 17% (95% CI, 13.4‐21.6), and 209 days (95% CI, 187‐224) with CHOP‐25. The 1‐year, 2‐year and median overall survival (OS) were 36.9% (95% CI, 29.7‐46.0), 13.5% (95% CI, 8.6‐21.1), and 302 days (95% CI, 249‐338) with CHOP‐19; and 42.8% (95% CI, 37.7‐48.7), 15.4% (95% CI, 11.7‐20.4), and 321 days (95% CI, 293‐357) with CHOP‐25. No significant difference in PFS and OS was found between the 2 protocols.Our study confirmed similar outcomes for dogs with PNBCL treated with 1st‐line CHOP‐19 or CHOP‐25. Both protocols therefore could be used as a standard of care in future trials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Objective Animals Methods Results Conclusion and Clinical Importance Minimally invasive approaches are the standard for treatment of upper urinary tract uroliths in humans.To describe the medical dissolution of upper urinary tract uroliths in a series of dogs and report clinical outcomes.6 female dogs (9 kidneys).Retrospective case series. A review of medical records in dogs that underwent medical dissolution of upper urinary tract uroliths utilizing diet, administration of antibiotics, and double‐pigtail ureteral stent(s) placement, when indicated, was performed. Medical management was generally continued for 4 weeks beyond urolith dissolution. Information on biochemical, microbiological, imaging, and clinical outcomes before and after dissolution were recorded.Six dogs (9 kidneys) were included with bilateral (3) or unilateral (3) nephrolithiasis, ureterolithiasis, or a combination. A ureteral stent(s) was placed endoscopically in 5/6 dogs (6/9 kidneys) for obstructive ureterolithiasis (n = 5) or a nonobstructive massive nephrolith (n = 1). All dogs had a positive urine culture of Staphylococcus pseudintermedius with a median urine pH of 7.25 (range, 6.5‐8) and 4/5 had pyonephrosis. All dogs had initial evidence of urolith dissolution at a median of 1.1 months (range, 0.42‐5.9), with complete dissolution of ureteroliths at a median of 3.9 months (range, 1.5‐7.6), nephroliths at 5.3 months (range, 1.5‐7.6), and lower urinary tract uroliths at 0.87 months (range, 0.42‐5.9). Stents were removed in 3/6 once dissolution was documented. The median follow‐up time was 519 days (range, 177‐2492 days).Medical dissolution and decompression of upper urinary tract struvite uroliths should be considered a minimally invasive treatment for dogs before more invasive options. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Carbapenem‐resistant Enterobacterales (CRE) are a concern in both human and animal medicine globally. Despite extensive research in humans, limited data exist on CRE in companion animals, with a lack of nationwide prevalence estimates. Hypothesis/Objectives: To assess the occurrence and trends of CRE in cats and dogs across the United States by analyzing 4 years of commercial antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST) data. Animals: Between 2019 and 2022, 477 426 ASTs were conducted on Enterobacterales isolates against imipenem. Isolates were derived from 379 598 dogs and 97 828 cats. Animal origin was not disclosed. Methods: In this retrospective study, antimicrobial susceptibility test data from IDEXX Laboratories were analyzed. Analysis included resistance estimations to imipenem stratified by sampling site, an assessment of resistance patterns over time and location, and the application of space‐time cluster analysis to identify potential outbreaks. Antibiograms were produced for carbapenem‐resistant isolates. Results: Susceptibility to imipenem was high, at 98.86%. Temporal analysis indicated stability in susceptibility, with an unexplained reduction in susceptible isolates in June 2019. Spatial analysis identified 2 high‐risk clusters along the Western Coast (relative risk [RR]: 23.26; P <.001) and in Texas (RR: 10.72; P <.001) in that month. Three other clusters were found, in Missouri (RR: 39.55; P =.038), Florida (RR: 4.53; P <.001), and New York (RR: 9.20; P <.001). Conclusions and Clinical Importance: CRE are present at a low prevalence in dogs and cats across the United States. Variations in prevalence across patient‐level and environmental factors highlight the need for tailored stewardship programs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: To ameliorate anticipated or ongoing neurological deficits, dogs undergoing brain tumor irradiation often are prescribed lengthy courses of prednisone PO during and after radiotherapy (RT). This practice can contribute to unwanted corticosteroid‐associated morbidity and may be unnecessary. Objective: Determine whether long‐term corticosteroid dependency can be minimized by use of succinct prednisone tapering. Animals: Fifty‐five pet dogs undergoing brain tumor irradiation. Methods: Nineteen dogs were treated using a "rapid‐taper" protocol wherein corticosteroid dose reduction began 0 to 20 days after completing RT. Outcomes were compared with a retrospectively studied control group ("slow‐taper"; N = 36 dogs) in which corticosteroids were tapered more slowly according to individual clinician recommendations. Results: Patient demographics were similar between groups. Mean time to lowest prednisone dose was 41 days postirradiation in the rapid‐taper group and 117 days in the slow‐taper group (P =.003). In the rapid‐taper group, 15 of 19 dogs (84%) were completely tapered off prednisone, vs 18 of 36 (50%) in the slow‐taper group (P =.04). Rates at which corticosteroids had to be reinstituted later were similar for the 2 groups (approximately 1 in 3 dogs). Adverse effect rates were similar for the 2 groups. Although no comparable questionnaire‐derived data were available for the "slow‐taper" group, overall and neurologic quality of life remained stable after RT in the rapid‐taper group. Conclusions and Clinical Importance: For many dogs, lengthy courses of PO prednisone are avoidable after intracranial RT. Future efforts should aim to identify which dogs benefit most from accelerated prednisone tapering. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Dogs with chronic inflammatory enteropathy (CIE) are typically classified into food‐responsive enteropathy (FRE), antibiotic‐responsive enteropathy (ARE), immunomodulator‐responsive enteropathy (IRE), and nonresponsive enteropathy (NRE) based on response to therapy(ies). Reassessment of initial categorization (especially IRE and NRE) is lacking. Objectives: Investigate validity of categorization scheme when reassessed at least 1 year after diagnosis. Animals: Sixty client‐owned dogs with CIE. Methods: Retrospective study. Clinical information was gathered from records and owners from time of diagnosis (TD), time of initial response (TIR), and at least 1 year after diagnosis (T≥1y). Category change was defined as a switch between groups. Results: Median disease activity index (CIBDAI) at TD was 9 and reduced significantly to 1 at T≥1y (P <.0001). At TIR, dogs were categorized as: FRE 27/60 (45%, 95% binomial confidence intervals [CI], 0.32‐0.58), IRE 30/60 (50%, CI 0.37‐0.63), ARE 0/60 (0%), NRE 3/60 (5%, CI −0.01 to 0.11). Seventeen of 27 (63%) FRE dogs had previously had at least 1 unsuccessful diet trial. At T≥1y, categorization changed to FRE 44/60 (73%, CI 0.62‐0.85), IRE 14/60 (23%, CI 0.13‐0.34), ARE 0/60 (0%), NRE 2/60 (3%, CI −0.01 to 0.08). Group changes were found for 24/60 (40%) dogs, largest change was from IRE to FRE (19/24, 79%). Immunosuppressive dosages were administered as sole treatment in 1/30 (3%) IRE dogs at TIR. Conclusions and Clinical Importance: Chronic inflammatory enteropathy categorization based on initial response to therapy needs reassessment after 1 year. Frequent change from IRE to FRE suggests that dogs initially categorized as IRE might have been initially categorized as FRE if multiple dietary trials had been performed. In our study, antibiotics were not needed to achieve satisfying clinical responses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Dogs with chronic inflammatory enteropathy (CIE) are typically classified into food‐responsive enteropathy (FRE), antibiotic‐responsive enteropathy (ARE), immunomodulator‐responsive enteropathy (IRE), and nonresponsive enteropathy (NRE) based on response to therapy(ies). Reassessment of initial categorization (especially IRE and NRE) is lacking. Objectives Investigate validity of categorization scheme when reassessed at least 1 year after diagnosis. Animals Sixty client‐owned dogs with CIE. Methods Retrospective study. Clinical information was gathered from records and owners from time of diagnosis (TD), time of initial response (TIR), and at least 1 year after diagnosis (T≥1y). Category change was defined as a switch between groups. Results Median disease activity index (CIBDAI) at TD was 9 and reduced significantly to 1 at T≥1y (P

Abstract Background Occurrence of low blood taurine concentrations (B‐TauC) and predisposing factors to taurine deficiency in English Cocker Spaniels (ECS) are incompletely understood. Objectives Investigate the occurrence of low B‐TauC in a Swedish population of ECS and evaluate the association between B‐TauC and dog characteristics, clinical variables, and diet composition. Animals One‐hundred eighty privately owned ECS. Methods Dogs were prospectively recruited and underwent physical examination, blood analyses, and echocardiographic and ophthalmic examinations. Dogs with clinical signs of congestive heart failure (CHF) also underwent thoracic radiography. Taurine concentrations were analyzed in plasma (EDTA and heparin) and whole blood. Diets consumed by the dogs at the time of the examination were analyzed for dietary taurine‐ (D‐TauC), cysteine‐ (D‐CysC), and methionine concentrations (D‐MetC). Results Fifty‐three of 180 dogs (29%) had low B‐TauC, of which 13 (25%) dogs had clinical and radiographic signs of CHF, increased echocardiographic left ventricular (LV) dimensions and volumes, and impaired LV systolic function. Five (9%) dogs with low B‐TauC had retinal abnormalities. Dietary MetC, dietary animal protein source (red/white meat), and age were associated with B‐TauC in the final multivariable regression model (P

A 3-year-old male pit bull terrier was presented for a 4-day history of progressive tetraparesis and cervical pain. Magnetic resonance imaging confirmed an extradural mass within the left lateral vertebral canal extending from caudal C5 to mid-T2. Lumbar cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) demonstrated marked (90%) eosinophilic inflammation. A C6-7 dorsal laminectomy and C7-T2 left hemilaminectomy were done, with gross disease remaining. Histopathology revealed a large T cell lymphoma with marked eosinophilic infiltration. The dog underwent CHOP-based chemotherapy with resolution of clinical signs, with a similar course of therapy performed at recurrence 37 months after initial presentation. The dog was euthanized 39 months after presentation for multiorgan failure secondary to neutropenic sepsis and aspiration pneumonia. This represents a positive long-term response to multimodal treatment of extradural T-cell lymphoma within the vertebral canal associated with a marked CSF eosinophilia.

BackgroundMany dog owners alter their dog's nutritional regimen after a diagnosis of cancer. There are limited data as to specific changes made and reasons behind these changes.Hypothesis/objectivesTo collect updated and detailed data on changes made by owners to their dog's diet and supplements after a cancer diagnosis.AnimalsResponses were collected from a survey of dog owners who brought their dogs to the UC Davis Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital's Oncology Service for the first time after a cancer diagnosis. Dogs with recurrence or presenting for a second type of cancer were excluded.MethodsEligible owners were surveyed between December 2020 and March 2022. The survey contained 62 questions regarding diet, supplement use, and treats, and how these were altered after a cancer diagnosis. Responses were matched to medical record data.ResultsOne hundred twenty-eight surveys were retained for analysis, including 120 respondents that completed the survey. In response to a cancer diagnosis, 54.8% (95% CI; 45.7%-63.8%) of owners altered diets or supplements or both. The most common informational resource for dog diets was veterinarians (53.9%). Usage of home-prepared foods significantly increased after a cancer diagnosis (P = .03). There was no significant difference in commercial diet usage before or after a diagnosis (P = .25). Joint support products were the most common supplements given both before (37.4%) and after (35.0%) diagnosis.Conclusions and clinical importanceMany dog owners alter their dog's nutritional intake after a cancer diagnosis. These owners should be provided information relating to commonly observed alterations, including home-prepared foods and supplements.

Background: Stenting has become popular to treat tracheal collapse in dogs, but complications might arise and negatively affect treatment outcome. Objectives: Determine the overall prevalence of complications of tracheal stenting in dogs. Methods: A bibliographic search was performed of publications from 2000 to 2020. Studies were assessed for quality of evidence and measured prevalence of the 8 most commonly reported complications after tracheal stenting in dogs (stent fracture, stent migration, relapsing collapse, granuloma formation, tracheobronchial infections, and early, late, and clinically relevant late cough). Random effects meta‐analyses were used to estimate pooled complications prevalence. Results: Fifteen studies met inclusion criteria. Cough (early: 99%; 95% confidence interval [95% CI]: 95%–100%, late: 75%; 95% CI: 63%–85%, and clinically relevant: 52%; 95% CI: 42%–61%), tracheobronchial infections (24%; 95% CI: 14%–35%), and granulomas (20%; 95% CI: 11%–30%) were common after tracheal stenting. Stent fractures (12%; 95% CI: 5%–20%), relapsing collapse (10%; 95% CI: 5%–15%), and stent migration (5%; 95% CI: 1%–9%) were less frequent. Significant heterogeneity among studies was identified for the estimated prevalence of stent fracture, granulomas, infections, and late cough. Conclusions and Clinical Importance: Tracheal stenting in dogs is associated with a high risk of coughing and a moderate risk of tracheobronchial infections and granuloma formation. Because most complications will impact a dog's quality of life, owners must be informed that tracheal stenting is a second‐line procedure that does not necessarily alleviate the need for medical treatment and frequent follow‐up visits. Additional studies are warranted to identify the risk factors of these complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To describe the diagnosis and successful treatment of systemic francisellosis in a dog. An 11‐year‐old female spayed Labrador retriever presented for progressive lethargy, hyporexia, and cough. The dog was febrile with a neutrophilia, nonregenerative anemia, thrombocytopenia, and had increased activity in serum of liver‐derived enzymes. Francisella philomiragia was isolated from aerobic blood culture. The dog was treated for 6 weeks with enrofloxacin orally. Repeated aerobic blood cultures after 2 and 6 weeks of antibiotic therapy were negative. The dog was clinically normal 7 months after diagnosis with no evidence of relapse. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Zonisamide (ZNS) is a newer generation antiseizure medication (ASM) used to treat epilepsy in dogs and cats. However, scientific and clinical information, particularly regarding monotherapy, is limited. Objectives: To evaluate the antiseizure efficacy and tolerability of ZNS monotherapy in dogs with newly diagnosed idiopathic epilepsy (IE). Animals: Study included 56 client‐owned dogs newly diagnosed with IE. Methods: This was a prospective multicenter, open‐label, uncontrolled study. All dogs were ASM‐naïve and had ≥2 seizures within 12 weeks. Dogs were administered 2.7‐14.4 mg/kg ZNS PO q12h and followed up for ≥12 weeks. Data from the 12‐week maintenance treatment period were compared with those from the 4‐ to 12‐week pretreatment period for efficacy evaluation. Data from the entire ZNS administration period were used to assess tolerability. Results: Fifty‐six dogs were included in our study. Of the dogs, 53 were assessed for efficacy; 40 (76%) had a ≥ 50% reduction in seizure frequency, and 29 (55%) achieved seizure freedom. For 90% of the dogs with ≥50% reduction in seizure frequency, the mean ZNS dose was 4.8 (range, 2.7‐8.6) mg/kg q12h and the mean trough plasma ZNS concentration was 18.9 (range, 8.0‐48.0) μg/mL. In 7 of the 56 dogs (13%), reduced activity, decreased appetite, vomiting, hindlimb weakness, soft stools, or constipation was observed, albeit mild and temporary. Laboratory tests revealed no relevant changes. Conclusions and Clinical Importance: Our study suggests that ZNS monotherapy is effective and well‐tolerated in dogs with newly diagnosed IE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Describe presenting signs, diagnostic findings, and magnet‐assisted endoscopic removal method of ferromagnetic gastric foreign bodies (FBs) in dogs. Clinical Presentation: Four dogs presented with ingestion of sharp metallic FBs. The presence of gastric FBs was confirmed by abdominal radiography. Results: In 3 cases, initial attempts at endoscopic removal were unsuccessful because of ingesta and fluid in the stomach. A magnet contained within a Roth net was introduced endoscopically. Magnet and attached objects were successfully removed from the stomach. In the fourth case, removal with a magnet was judged to be the most expedient method of removal because multiple metallic objects were present. Clinical Relevance: An endoscopic technique was used for the removal of difficult‐to‐visualize or multiple metallic FBs. The use of this technique allows the removal of ferromagnetic gastric FBs without surgery or risk of complications associated with the passage of sharp material through the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BackgroundPyothorax, an accumulation of inflammatory fluid in the pleural space, is often caused by foreign body inhalation in dogs, whereas the etiology in cats can be more difficult to discern.ObjectiveCompare clinical, microbiologic findings, and etiology in cats and dogs with pyothorax.AnimalsTwenty-nine cats and 60 dogs.MethodsMedical records of cats and dogs diagnosed with pyothorax from 2010 to 2020 were reviewed. Clinical findings, fluid analysis, and microbiologic results were retrieved.ResultsAntimicrobials had been administered to equal proportions of cats and dogs before fluid sampling (45% and 47%). Groups did not differ in age or total protein concentration or percentage neutrophils in pleural fluid, but effusion cell count was significantly higher in cats than in dogs (P = .01). Neutrophils containing intracellular bacteria were identified in more cats (27/29, 93%) than dogs (44/60, 73%; P = .05). Penetrating damage to the thorax was implicated as the cause of pyothorax in equal percentages of cats (76%) and dogs (75%). Etiology could not be determined in 2 cats and 1 dog. Cats had higher numbers of bacterial isolates per patient (median, 3) than dogs (median, 1; P = .01) and anaerobes were isolated more often in cats (23/29, 73%) than in dogs (27/60, 45%; P = .003).Conclusions and clinical importancePyothorax had similar etiologies in cats and dogs. Cats had higher fluid cell counts, higher numbers of bacterial isolates identified per patient, and intracellular bacteria detected more commonly than did dogs.

Sibling female and male Chihuahuas were evaluated for a 9-month history of tachypnea that failed to respond to fenbendazole, doxycycline, amoxicillin-clavulanate, and prednisone. Physical examination identified tachypnea, hyperpnea, and harsh bronchovesicular lung sounds. Fundic examination disclosed diffuse chorioretinitis, manifested as multifocal chorioretinal granulomas in the female dog and occasional chorioretinal scars in the male dog. Thoracic radiographs indicated moderate to severe interstitial to broncho-interstitial infiltrates in both dogs. Serum and urine antigen and antibody testing in the female dog failed to identify infectious agents, but cytologic assessment of hepatic lymph node, liver, and splenic aspirates identified Pneumocystis trophozoites. Infection was confirmed in both dogs by 28S rRNA PCR sequencing from multiple tissue samples. The female dog responded well to trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole, but the male dog was euthanized because of liver failure, presumably related to antimicrobial treatment.

BackgroundThe behavior of the comprehensive circulating renin-angiotensin system (RAS) in dogs with myxomatous mitral valve disease (MMVD) before to the onset of congestive heart failure remains largely unexplored.Hypothesis/objectivesThe classical and alternative RAS activity and aldosterone concentrations will be significantly higher in dogs with American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine (ACVIM) stage B2 MMVD compared to normal dogs and dogs with ACVIM stage B1 MMVD.AnimalsOne-hundred seventeen client-owned dogs (normal = 60; B1 = 31; B2 = 26).MethodsProspective observational study. Angiotensin peptides (AP) and aldosterone concentrations were measured using liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry. Angiotensin converting enzymes 1 and 2 (ACE, ACE2) and renin activity surrogates were calculated from AP concentrations. Equilibrium dialysis (ED) and immediate protease inhibition (PI) methods of AP quantification were compared in 14 healthy dogs.ResultsCore RAS activity and aldosterone concentrations did not differ among the 3 groups. However, the balance between the alternative and classical RAS differed, with dogs with stage B2 MMVD having significantly higher ACE2 activity surrogate (ACE2surr ) when compared to normal dogs (adjusted P = .02; ratio of medians for ACE2surr [B2:normal], 1.89; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.4-2.6). The ED and PI methods of AP quantification were highly correlated (AngI, r = .9, P

BackgroundUltrafiltration is performed to alleviate fluid overload in dogs with acute kidney injury (AKI) undergoing intermittent hemodialysis (IHD).ObjectivesTo describe prescription patterns for ultrafiltration in dogs receiving IHD for AKI and risk factors for ultrafiltration-related complications.AnimalsSeventy-seven dogs undergoing 144 IHD treatments between 2009 and 2019.MethodsMedical records of dogs receiving IHD for AKI were reviewed. The initial 3 IHD treatments in which ultrafiltration was prescribed were included. Ultrafiltration-related complications were defined as those requiring an intervention such as transient or permanent discontinuation of ultrafiltration.ResultsMean fluid removal rate per treatment was 8.1 ± 4.5 mL/kg/h. Ultrafiltration-related complications occurred in 37/144 (25.7%) of treatments. Hypotension was rare (6/144, 4.2% of treatments). No ultrafiltration-related complications resulted in deaths. The mean prescribed fluid removal rate per treatment was higher in dogs with ultrafiltration-related complications than without (10.8 ± 4.9 mL/kg/h vs 8.8 ± 5.1 mL/kg/h, respectively; P = .03). The mean delivered fluid removal rate per treatment was significantly lower in dogs with UF-related complications compared to those without complications (6.8 ± 4.0 mL/kg/h vs 8.6 ± 4.6 mL/kg/h, respectively; P = .04). Variables associated with ultrafiltration-related complications (P

BackgroundAmphotericin-B (AmB) is an essential medication for the treatment of life-threatening systemic mycoses but the incidence and risk factors for acute kidney injury (AKI) after its administration are not known in dogs.ObjectiveDetermine the incidence of and risk factors for AKI in dogs receiving AmB.AnimalsFifty-one client owned dogs receiving AmB for the treatment of systemic mycoses.MethodsRetrospective study. Signalment, potential risk factors, AKI development (creatinine ≥0.3 mg/dL from baseline), drug formulation (deoxycholate [AmB-D] or lipid complex [ABLC]), dose, and treatment duration were recorded. The probability of an AKI diagnosis was evaluated using a log-rank test. The incidence of AKI and odds ratios were calculated for potential risk factors.ResultsIncidence of AKI was 5/12 (42%) for dogs receiving AmB-D and 14/39 (36%) for dogs receiving ABLC. Of the 19 dogs that developed AKI, 16 (84%) continued treatment after a pause in the planned dosing protocol. Fifty percent of dogs received a cumulative dose of 6.9 mg/kg for AmB-D and 22.5 mg/kg for ABLC (P

BackgroundThe ability to detect bacteriuria in dogs with a point-of-care test might improve medical care and antimicrobial stewardship.Hypothesis and objectiveA rapid immunoassay (RIA; RapidBac) will provide acceptable sensitivity and specificity for diagnosis of bacteriuria.AnimalsForty-four client-owned dogs with a clinical indication for urinalysis and aerobic bacterial urine culture.MethodsProspective study. Urine, collected by cystocentesis, was submitted for urinalysis and culture at a diagnostic laboratory. Owners completed an enrollment questionnaire regarding their dogs' clinical signs. The RIA was performed according to the manufacturer's guidelines. Results were compared to culture.ResultsForty-four urine specimens were evaluated from 44 dogs. The sensitivity and specificity of the RIA test to detect bacteriuria compared to urine culture were 81.8% (95% CI, 65.7%-97.9%) and 95.5% (95% CI, 86.8%-99.9%), respectively. For cultures yielding ≥103  CFU/mL, sensitivity increased to 90.0% (95% CI, 76.9%-100%) and specificity was similar at 95.2% (95% CI, 86.1%-99.9%). Malodorous urine, bacteriuria, and pyuria were more likely to be present in dogs with positive RIA or urine culture results compared to dogs with negative results.Conclusions and clinical importanceThe RIA was easy to perform and had good sensitivity and excellent specificity in this group of dogs. The RIA might be a useful screening test for decision-making regarding antimicrobial therapy in dogs with a clinical indication for urine culture. Consideration could be given to amending the International Society for Companion Animal Infectious Disease definition of bacterial cystitis as the presence of signs of lower urinary tract disease together with positive culture or a positive RIA.

BackgroundHorner syndrome often occurs with cervical myelopathies and might provide insight into the underlying disease and prognosis.ObjectivesTo describe the clinical and imaging features of dogs with cervical myelopathy and concurrent Horner syndrome and to determine association of Horner syndrome with diseases or magnetic resonance images (MRI).AnimalsNinety-three client-owned dogs with cervical myelopathy and concurrent Horner syndrome and 99 randomly selected client-owned dogs with cervical myelopathy without Horner syndrome (control cases).MethodsRetrospective study. Medical records were reviewed to identify Horner and control cases and clinical findings recorded. MRI were reviewed, and lesions characterized and recorded. Descriptive and comparative statistics were performed.ResultsNon-compressive disease occurred more frequently in the Horner group compared with controls (58%; 95% CI: 48-68 vs 9%; 95% CI: 5-16; P

BackgroundA panel of IgA-based serologic assays might aid in the diagnosis of chronic enteropathy (CE) in dogs, a syndrome encompassing conditions such as food-responsive enteropathy, immunosuppressant-responsive enteropathy, and inflammatory bowel disease (also referred to as chronic inflammatory enteropathy). However, it is unclear whether these biomarkers discriminate between CE and other types of primary intestinal disorders.ObjectivesTo evaluate a diagnostic panel that measures serum concentrations of IgA directed against OmpC (ACA), canine calprotectin (ACNA), and gliadin-derived peptides (AGA) in dogs with well-characterized intestinal diseases.AnimalsFifty-five dogs with primary intestinal disease.MethodsSerum ACA, ACNA, and AGA concentrations were measured in 30 dogs with CE and 25 dogs with other intestinal diseases (non-CE population), including histoplasmosis, parasitism, E. coli-associated granulomatous colitis, and lymphoma. Serum IgA concentrations were compared among populations, and sensitivities and specificities were calculated using laboratory-provided cut-points.ResultsTwenty-six of 30 (87%) CE dogs and 21 of 25 (84%) non-CE dogs had abnormal concentrations (intermediate or high) of at least 2 markers; these proportions were not significantly different (P = .99). A serum ACA concentration ≥15 EU/mL was 86.7% (95% confidence interval [CI], 69.3%-96.2%) sensitive and 24.0% (95% CI, 9.4%-45.1%) specific for CE diagnosis. High AGA concentrations were observed in 16 of 25 (64%) non-CE dogs.Conclusions and clinical importanceThe evaluated serologic markers were poorly specific for CE diagnosis, which raises concerns that their use in clinical practice might lead to misdiagnoses and delayed or even detrimental treatments in dogs with non-CE intestinal diseases.

BackgroundSevere muscle stiffness (SMS) in dogs with hypercortisolism (HC) is uncommon.ObjectivesTo evaluate signalment, presentation, treatments, and long-term outcomes of dogs with concurrent HC and SMS.AnimalsThirty-seven dogs.MethodsMedical records of dogs with HC and concurrent SMS were recruited from 10 institutions. Clinical information, test results, therapeutic responses, and survival times were reviewed.ResultsAll 37 dogs with HC and SMS had pituitary-dependent hypercortisolism (PDH); 36/37 weighed

BackgroundSerum folate is considered a biomarker of chronic enteropathy (CE) in dogs, but few studies have examined associations with markers of CE.Hypothesis/objectivesTo evaluate serum folate concentrations in dogs with and without CE and associations with sample hemolysis and selected markers of CE. We hypothesized that hypofolatemia would be more common in dogs with CE and associated with hypocobalaminemia, higher CIBDAI, and hypoalbuminemia.AnimalsSix hundred seventy-three dogs with available serum folate measurements performed at an academic veterinary hospital between January 2016 and December 2019.MethodsMedical records were retrospectively reviewed to categorize cases as CE or non-CE and record clinical details and laboratory markers. Relationships between serum folate, cobalamin, and CE variables were assessed using chi-square, Kruskal-Wallis, or Spearman's correlation tests.ResultsOf the 673 dogs, 99 CE were compared to 95 non-CE. In the overall cohort, serum folate concentration did not correlate with sample hemolysis (P = .75). In the CE subset, serum folate and cobalamin concentrations were positively associated (rho = 0.34, FDR = 0.02). However, serum folate concentrations (median [25th, 75th percentiles]) were higher (CE: 12.1 (8.9, 16.1), non-CE: 10.4 (7.2, 15.5); P = .04) and cobalamin concentrations were lower (CE: 343 (240, 597), non-CE: 550 (329, 749); P = .001) in the CE vs non-CE group. Serum folate was not associated with markers of CE, but serum cobalamin was associated with albumin (P = .04) and cholesterol (P = .03).Conclusions and clinical importanceHypofolatemia is an inferior biomarker of CE compared to hypocobalaminemia.

BackgroundGlucocorticoids are frequently required for management of cough because of inflammatory airway disease (IAD) and airway collapse (AWC).Objectives/hypothesisTo determine the efficacy and feasibility of inhaled administration of corticosteroids in controlling cough in dogs with noninfectious airway disease.AnimalsThirty-six client-owned dogs.MethodsDogs were prospectively recruited for this placebo-controlled cross-over study. Inflammatory airway disease was diagnosed through bronchoalveolar lavage cytology. Airway collapse was diagnosed through bronchoscopy, or if dogs were unsuitable anesthetic candidates, by crackles on auscultation, radiographic changes in airway diameter, or fluoroscopy. Dogs were randomly assigned to receive placebo or fluticasone propionate for the first 2 weeks of the trial then crossed over to fluticasone. A quality of life (QOL) survey (best score 0, worst score 85) was completed at 0 and 6 weeks. A visual-analog cough survey was submitted at 0, 2, 4, and 6 weeks to assess cough, feasibility, and adverse effects of treatment.ResultsFor 32 dogs, QOL score at study end (mean 11.3 ± 9.7) was significantly lower (P

BACKGROUND: Early identification of dogs with progressive vs stable chronic kidney disease (CKD) might afford opportunity for interventions that would slow progression. However, currently no surrogate biomarker reliably predicts CKD progression. HYPOTHESIS/OBJECTIVES: Urinary cystatin B (uCysB), a novel kidney injury biomarker, predicts progressive disease in International Renal Interest Society (IRIS) CKD Stage 1. ANIMALS: Seventy-two dogs, including 20 dogs from 4 university centers with IRIS CKD Stage 1, with IDEXX symmetric dimethylarginine (SDMA) concentration up to 17 μg/dL and no systemic comorbidities, and 52 clinically healthy staff-owned dogs from a fifth university center. METHODS: A multicenter prospective longitudinal study was conducted between 2016 and 2021 to assess uCysB concentration in IRIS CKD Stage 1 and control dogs. Dogs were followed to a maximum of 3 years (control) or 25 months (CKD). Stage 1 IRIS CKD was classified as stable or progressive using the slope of 1/SDMA, calculated from 3 timepoints during the initial 90-day period. Dogs with slope above or below -0.0007 week × dL/μg were classified as stable or progressive, respectively. Mixed effects modeling was used to assess the association between uCysB and progression rate. RESULTS: Estimates of first visit uCysB results predictive of active ongoing kidney injury based on the mixed effects models were 17 ng/mL for control, 24 ng/mL for stable CKD, and 212 ng/mL for progressive CKD (P

BACKGROUND: Circulating creatinine and symmetric dimethylarginine (SDMA) are biomarkers of kidney function that have been used variously to define stable vs progressive chronic kidney disease (CKD). Slope monitoring of inverse biomarker values (creatinine-1 or SDMA-1 ) has shown promise, but quantitative criteria to distinguish stable vs progressive CKD using this approach are lacking. OBJECTIVE: Assessment of creatinine-1 and SDMA-1 slope cutoffs to distinguish stable vs progressive CKD. ANIMALS: One hundred ten clinically healthy university staff-owned dogs and 29 male colony dogs with progressive X-linked hereditary nephropathy (XLHN). METHODS: Retrospective analysis combining 2 prospective observational studies, 1 tracking kidney function biomarkers in healthy dogs (HDs) to a maximum of 3 years, and 1 tracking kidney function biomarkers in male colony dogs with progressive XLHN to a maximum of 1 year. The minimum slope of creatinine-1 or SDMA-1 as measured using the IDEXX SDMA test from HD was assigned as the slope cutoff for stable kidney function. RESULTS: The stable vs progressive slope cutoff was -0.0119 week × dL/mg for creatinine-1 and -0.0007 week × dL/μg for SDMA-1 . CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE: In the studied CKD population, progressive dysfunction can be distinguished from stable kidney function by using the slope of creatinine-1 or SDMA-1 . These criteria may serve to characterize CKD in other cohorts of dogs and to establish guidelines for degrees of progression rate in dogs with naturally occurring CKD.

BACKGROUND: Idiopathic functional urinary outflow tract obstruction (iFUOTO) is an uncommon but life-limiting disease whose etiology and clinical course of disease remain poorly understood. OBJECTIVE: Characterize signalment, clinical signs, clinicopathologic findings, treatments, and propose a standardized response score for dogs with iFUOTO. ANIMALS: Thirty-one client-owned dogs diagnosed with iFUOTO. METHODS: Retrospective case series. Medical records from 2010 to 2021 were reviewed and findings recorded. Dogs were categorized based on the presence or absence of overt signs of neurological disease. Response to treatment was scored. RESULTS: Thirty-one dogs were included. All dogs had stranguria and 14 (45%) had overflow urinary incontinence. Mean age of onset for signs was 6.9 years±8 months. Twenty-four dogs (77%) were castrated males, 5 (16%) intact males, and 2 (6%) spayed females. Eight (26%) of dogs had overt neurological deficits. Follow-up data were available for 29 dogs (median 38 days, range: 2-1277). Final outcome scores were not significantly different among dogs with overt signs of neurological disease (median score 2.5; range: 0-3) and those without (median score 1; range; 0-3; P = .35). Treatments included alpha antagonists, skeletal muscle relaxants, parasympathomimetics, anti-inflammatories, castration, temporary placement of a urethral catheter, or a combination of these. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Multimodal treatment was frequently prescribed, but a standard outcome score is needed to evaluate the effectiveness of these therapies. Serial neurological examinations and monitoring of the dogs dysuria are warranted.

BACKGROUND: Globoid cell leukodystrophy (GCL) is a fatal autosomal recessive disease caused by variants in the galactosylceramidase (GALC) gene. Two dog breed-specific variants are reported. OBJECTIVES: Characterize the putatively causative GALC variant for GCL in a family of dogs and determine population allele frequency. ANIMALS: Four related mixed-breed puppies with signs of neurologic disease were evaluated. Subsequently, 33 related dogs were tested for genetic markers for parentage and the identified GALC variant. Additional GALC genotyping was performed on 278 banked samples from various breeds. METHODS: The 4 affected puppies had neurological exams and necropsies. DNA was isolated from blood samples. Variants in GALC were identified via Sanger sequencing. Parentage testing was performed using short tandem repeat markers. Prevalence of the GALC variant of interest was investigated in other breeds. RESULTS: GCL was confirmed histopathologically. A novel missense variant in GALC (NC_006590.4:g.58893972G>A) was homozygous in all affected animals (n = 4). A recessive mode of inheritance was confirmed by parentage testing as was variant linkage with the phenotype (LOD = 3.36). Among the related dogs (n = 33), 3 dogs were homozygous and 7 heterozygous. The variant allele was not detected in screening 278 dogs from 5 breeds. The novel variant is either unique to this family or has an extremely low allele frequency in the general population. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE: A novel GALC variant was identified that likely explains GCL in this cohort. The identification of multiple causal variants for GCL in dogs is consistent with findings in humans.

Case summaryA 3-month-old Airedale dog with clinically diagnosed generalized tetanus was investigated for the occurrence of excessive paddling and chewing movements when sleeping. Electroencephalogram (EEG) with time-locked video over 31 hours determined occurrence of the abnormal movements to be within 20 to 180 seconds of the onset of rapid eye movement (REM) sleep, but not at any other stage of wakefulness or sleep. No epileptiform activity was noted. Clinical signs of generalized tetanus resolved over 8 weeks with antimicrobial and symptomatic treatment, and sleep-associated movements resolved 6 weeks after presentation.Clinical relevanceRapid eye movement sleep behavior disorder (RBD) has been suspected in dogs with generalized tetanus but not confirmed by correlation of repeated episodes of vocalization or motor behaviors or both with REM sleep defined by an EEG. The case further defines RBD in dogs with tetanus, and highlights the value of EEG to differentiate among different parasomnias and epileptiform activity.

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

Background: Reports describing sciatic nerve injuries (SNI) and their outcome are scarce in veterinary medicine. Hypothesis: Describe the causes of traumatic and iatrogenic SNI and evaluate which clinical and electrodiagnostic findings predict outcome. Animals: Thirty‐eight dogs and 10 cats with confirmed SNI referred for neurologic and electrodiagnostic evaluation. Methods: Clinical and electrodiagnostic examination results, including electromyography (EMG), motor nerve conduction studies, muscle‐evoked potential (MEP), F‐waves, sensory nerve conduction studies, and cord dorsum potential (CDP), were retrospectively evaluated. Quality of life (QoL) was assessed based on owner interviews. Results: Surgery (42%) and trauma (33%) were the most common causes of SNI; in dogs, 24% were caused by bites from wild boars. Ability to flex and extend the tarsus was significantly associated with positive outcome in dogs. Mean time from onset of clinical signs until electrodiagnostic evaluation was 67 ± 65 (range, 7‐300) days and 65 ± 108 (range, 7‐365) days for dogs and cats, respectively. A cut‐off amplitude of 1.45 mV for compound motor action potentials (CMAP) was predictive of positive outcome in dogs (P =.01), with sensitivity of 58% and specificity of 100%. Conclusions and Clinical Importance: Clinical motor function predicts recovery better than sensory function. Electrodiagnostic findings also may play a role in predicting the outcome of SNI. Application of the proposed CMAP cut‐off amplitude may assist clinicians in shortening the time to reassessment or for earlier suggestion of salvage procedures. Owners perceived a good quality of life (QoL), even in cases of hindlimb amputation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Dogs with congenital intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (IHPSS) are predisposed to gastrointestinal inflammation, ulceration, and bleeding, unlike dogs with congenital extrahepatic portosystemic shunt (EHPSS). Limited information is available about hematologic differences between dogs with IHPSS and dogs with EHPSS. Objective: Compare hemogram variables between dogs with IHPSS and EHPSS. We hypothesized that hematologic variables would differ between the 2 populations, with a higher frequency and severity of anemia and microcytosis in dogs with IHPSS. Animals: Twenty‐six client‐owned dogs with IHPSS and 35 client‐owned dogs with EHPSS. Methods: Retrospective cross‐sectional study. Dogs were included if a CBC was performed before shunt attenuation. Contingency analysis was performed to determine if the frequency of clinical signs and of hematologic variables below the reference range differed between groups. Hematologic and selected biochemical variables were compared between groups using an analysis of covariance with age as a covariate. Results: Gastrointestinal clinical signs (IHPSS, 81% vs EHPSS, 34%; P =.01), anemia (31% vs 6%; P =.01), microcytosis (77% vs 29%; P =.002), and hypochromia (77% vs 49%; P =.03) were more common in dogs with IHPSS than in dogs with EHPSS. Dogs with IHPSS had lower packed cell volume (34% vs 41%, P =.04), hemoglobin concentration (11.5 g/dL vs 13.7 g/dL, P =.03), mean corpuscular volume (57 fL vs 65 fL; P =.001), and mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration (32 g/dL vs 33 g/dL; P =.04) than dogs with EHPSS. Conclusions and Clinical Importance: Dogs with IHPSS had a higher frequency of anemia, microcytosis, and hypochromia and exhibited more gastrointestinal clinical signs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]