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BackgroundNumerous studies in veterinary species have recently linked vitamin D status with non-skeletal health disorders. Previous studies have indicated that dogs cannot produce endogenous vitamin D via cutaneous production and rely solely on dietary intake of vitamin D. The seasonal variation of vitamin D seen in humans due to changes in UV exposure therefore is unlikely to be replicated in these animals.ObjectivesThe objective of this study was to investigate the natural variation in 25-hydroxyvitamin-D concentration in dogs subject to seasonal UV exposure.MethodsThis longitudinal study followed 18 healthy dogs fed a standardized diet over one year, with blood samples obtained monthly. Two key vitamin D metabolites, 25-hydroxyvitamin-D2 and 25-hydroxyvitamin-D3, were assessed by liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry in serum samples. Various other biochemical parameters were also measured. Seasonality was assessed using Cosinor statistical analysis.ResultsAlthough the dogs were subject to seasonally varying UV radiation, 25-hydroxyvitamin-D and related biomarkers (including calcium and parathyroid hormone) remained stable over time and did not follow a seasonal pattern. 25-hydroxyvitamin-D was not positively correlated to exposure to UV radiation. Nonetheless, variation in 25-hydroxyvitamin-D concentration between individual dogs was detected.ConclusionsGiven the standardization of diet, we concluded that the seasonal stability of 25-hydroxyvitamin-D concentration (vitamin D status) was likely a direct result of lack of cutaneous vitamin D production in this species and highlights the importance of dietary intake. The variation in 25-hydroxyvitamin-D concentration between animals warrants further investigatio

ObjectivesTo investigate the relationship between total and ionised calcium concentrations in dogs with ionised hypercalcaemia and to evaluate how albumin influences this relationship.MethodsInitially, a reference interval for ionised and total calcium was established using a large population of healthy adult dogs. Our teaching hospital clinical database was searched to identify adult dogs with ionised hypercalcaemia between 2012 and 2017, a time frame when the same sample handling and analysis protocols were in place as for the healthy reference interval population. The relationship between ionised and total calcium concentrations was then compared in the ionised hypercalcaemia population.ResultsBased on biochemical analysis of 351 healthy adult dogs, a reference interval of 1.18 to 1.53 mmol/L for ionised calcium and 2.24 to 2.85 mmol/L for total calcium was established. Using these reference intervals, 63 dogs with ionised hypercalcaemia were identified, of which 23 did not have a total hypercalcaemia. Only seven of the 23 dogs with ionised hypercalcaemia and total calcium below the upper limit of the reference interval had hypoalbuminemia. The majority of dogs with ionised hypercalcemia and normal total calcium had a modest increase in ionised calcium.Clinical SignificanceIf relying on total calcium alone, more than one third of dogs with ionised hypercalcaemia will be classified as normocalcaemic and the majority of these dogs had normal serum albumin.

Background Protein-losing enteropathy (PLE) because of chronic inflammatory enteropathy (CIE) in dogs is often treated with a combination of glucocorticoids and second-line immunosuppressant (SLI). This combined approach might not be necessary in all dogs. Hypothesis/objectives To describe diagnostic features and outcomes of dogs with PLE treated with glucocorticoids alone (group P) or with glucocorticoids and SLI (group S). Animals Thirty-one dogs with PLE. Material and methods Retrospective analysis of signalment data from diagnostic procedures, treatment, and outcome of dogs with CIE/PLE (from 2015 to 2017), using the hospital's digital case database. Dogs with hypoalbuminemia and CIE were included. Because of a stepwise treatment algorithm, dogs were allocated to group P or S. Time to serum albumin concentrations ≥20 g/L and survival data were collected. Dogs were additionally categorized by their albumin and cobalamin serum concentrations. Multivariate and univariate analysis as well as Pearson's correlation and Kaplan-Maier survival analysis were performed. Results Seventeen dogs were included in group P and 14 in group S. World Small Animal Veterinary Association score of the duodenum was different between groups (P = .05), but none of the other examined data. Median time until serum albumin reached >20 g/L was 13 days. Median survival time after start of treatment was 85 days (range, 13-463 days) in group P and 166 days (range, 8-390 days) in group S. Conclusion and clinical importance No routine diagnostic test was predictive of clinical response, treatment group, or outcome. Glucocorticoid treatment alone can be appropriate in dogs with PLE.

An ever-increasing number of pets, particularly dogs, are travelling from and back to the UK with their owners, in addition to new pets being brought in having been acquired outside the UK (often as ‘rescues’), and puppies bred outside the UK and imported legally or illegally. Such pet travel risks the importation of a variety of diseases that generally have not been present in the UK. Veterinary surgeons need to be aware of the risks associated with pet travel, and have a good understanding of these diseases. ESCCAP is an excellent source of information on parasites. To protect animal health, it is necessary to go well beyond the Pet Travel Scheme requirements. It is important to be able to provide owners with the best advice and preventative treatments to minimise the risks of pets acquiring parasitic, vector-borne and other diseases while travelling — for their benefit and for the longer-term health and welfare of the UK pet population, as well as the health of the human population. For any disease prevention or control programme to be effective, awareness and motivation must be raised, and for this, communication is key. It is vital to tailor the language used to match the audience in order for any message to be heard and accepted, and it is essential to remember the emotional attachment that people develop for animals they are ‘rescuing’.

OBJECTIVES: Calcium is the most abundant mineral in the body and plays a critical role in a wide range of physiological processes. Low concentrations of ionised calcium, the most metabolically available form of calcium, have been linked to an increased risk of adverse clinical outcomes in dogs. Magnesium plays an important role in parathyroid hormone function. The objective of this study was to define the prevalence and aetiology of hypomagnesaemia in a hospitalised cohort of dogs with ionised hypocalcaemia (IHC).METHODS: A total magnesium reference interval was established using serum biochemistry results from 346 clinically healthy dogs. The clinical records of dogs with IHC were reviewed, and concurrent serum magnesium concentrations were recorded alongside clinical signs and underlying aetiology. The prevalence, clinical presentation and aetiology of hypomagnesaemia were examined in the IHC population.RESULTS: Two hundred and ninety-five IHC dogs were identified. Hypomagnesaemia was identified in 22%. Total magnesium concentration was significantly higher in dogs with renal disease. The most common cause of concurrent hypomagnesaemia and IHC was gastrointestinal diseases.CONCLUSION: Low concentrations of serum magnesium occur in approximately one fifth of all dogs with IHC. Further studies are required to clarify the link between magnesium status, IHC and clinical outcome.

BACKGROUND: It is unclear whether a low total 25(OH)D concentration is a cause or consequence of illnesses. To address this knowledge gap, studies measuring free and total 25(OH)D during the evolution and resolution of an inflammatory process are required.OBJECTIVES: Serum total and free 25(OH)D concentrations would transiently decline after cruciate surgery in dogs.ANIMALS: Seventeen client-owned dogs with a spontaneous cranial cruciate ligament rupture (CCLR).METHODS: A longitudinal cohort study involving the measurement of serum concentrations of total and free 25(OH)D, total calcium, creatinine, albumin, phosphate, C-reactive protein and plasma ionized calcium, at 1 day before and a median time of 1 and 60 days after surgical treatment of CCLR.RESULTS: Median serum concentrations of total 25(OH)D before surgery (80.3 nmoL/L [range, 43.5-137.3]) significantly declined immediately after surgery; (64.8 nmoL/L [range, 36.3-116.5] 1 day after surgery, P CONCLUSION AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE: This study reveals the difficulties of assessing vitamin D status in dogs following elective surgery.

Cranial cruciate ligament rupture (CCLR) is one of the most common orthopaedic disorders diagnosed in dogs yet the factors which influence postoperative clinical outcomes are poorly understood. Low vitamin D status has been linked to poorer clinical outcomes in human patients undergoing elective orthopaedic surgery. The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between pre-operative vitamin D status, as defined by serum 25 hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) concentrations, and initial disease severity and clinical outcomes in dogs undergoing surgical treatment for a CCLR. Serum 25(OH)D concentrations were measured in 44 dogs with a CCLR on the day before surgery. C-reactive protein concentrations were measured at a median time of 1 day post-surgery and the patient's clinical and radiographic response to CCLR surgical treatment was assessed at a median timepoint of 60 days post-surgery. Serum 25(OH)D concentrations in dogs with a CCLR was not significantly different to a population of healthy dogs (median 74.1 nmol/L and 88.40 nmol/L, respectively). There was no significant correlation between pre-operative serum 25(OH)D concentrations and length of pre-diagnosis clinical signs, pre-operative lameness scores or day 1 post-operative CRP concentrations. Thirty nine of the 44 dogs were re-examined at a median 60 days post-surgery. There was no relationship between the day 60 lameness scores and pre-operative serum 25(OH)D concentrations. In summary, we discovered that the vitamin D status of dogs with a CCLR was not significantly lower than healthy dogs and pre-operative serum 25(OH)D concentrations were not correlated to either pre-surgical disease severity or post-operative clinical outcomes.

BACKGROUND: The major physiological role of vitamin D has traditionally been considered to be the regulation of calcium homeostasis and maintenance of skeletal health. However, there is increasing evidence that vitamin D influences a wider range of physiological processes including erythropoiesis. Vitamin D (25-hydroxyvitamin D, 25(OH)D) deficiency concentrations have been associated with anaemia in human beings. In contrast, the relationship between vitamin D status and erythropoiesis has not been investigated in cats.METHODS: Clinical records of cats consecutively presenting between November 2013 and February 2015 were reviewed. For each cat, data including sex, age, breed, serum albumin and creatinine concentrations, and appetite scores were extracted. A multivariable linear regression model was constructed to examine the relationship between 25(OH)D concentrations and these variables.RESULTS: Cats with anaemia had significantly lower 25(OH)D concentrations (median 49.5 nmol/l, n=31) than cats with packed cell volume above the lower limit of the reference range (median 109.0 nmol/l, n=130) (PCONCLUSION: Vitamin D (25(OH)D) concentration is positively associated with red blood cell count and mean corpuscular volume in cats with a wide range of different illnesses.

BACKGROUND: Congenital portosystemic shunt (cPSS) is one of the most common congenital disorders diagnosed in dogs. Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is a frequent complication in dogs with a cPSS and is a major cause of morbidity and mortality. Despite HE been a major cause of morbidity in dogs with a cPSS, little is known about the cellular changes that occur in the central nervous system of dogs with a cPSS.OBJECTIVES: The objective of this study was to characterise the histological changes in the cerebral cortex and cerebellum of dogs with cPSS with particular emphasis on astrocyte morphology.METHODS: Eight dogs with a confirmed cPSS were included in the study.RESULTS: Six dogs had substantial numbers of Alzheimer type II astrocytes and all cases had increased immunoreactivity for glial fibrillary acidic protein in the cerebral cortex, even if there were minimal other morphological changes.CONCLUSIONS: This study demonstrates that dogs with a cPSS have marked cellular changes in the cerebral cortex and cerebellum. The cellular changes that occur in the cerebral cortex and cerebellum of dogs with spontaneously arising HE are similar to changes which occur in humans with HE, further validating dogs with a cPSS as a good model for human HE.

Background Melatonin is a hormone produced and secreted primarily by the pineal gland and mainly metabolised in the liver. Increased melatonin concentrations have been reported in human cirrhosis and hepatic encephalopathy (HE), a syndrome of neurological dysfunction. The pathogenesis of canine HE is incompletely understood. Melatonin has been hypothesised as a contributor to the development of HE. The aim of this study was to investigate whether serum melatonin concentrations are increased in canine congenital portosystemic shunting (cPSS), with and without HE. Methods Medical records were retrospectively reviewed, for which archived (−80°C) serum samples were available. A canine competitive ELISA was used to measure melatonin in two cohorts: dogs with a final diagnosis of cPSS (n=23) with and without clinical signs of HE, and healthy dogs (n=15). Results Melatonin concentrations were not significantly different (P=0.81) between healthy controls (median 27.2 pg/mL, range 19.8–161.5 pg/mL) and dogs with cPSS (median 25.7 pg/mL, range 18.5–244.9 pg/mL). Serum melatonin did not differ between cPSS patients with and without clinical signs of HE (P>0.99). No correlation was found between serum melatonin and blood ammonia (Spearman rank correlation coefficient, rs=−0.41, P=0.08). Conclusion Serum melatonin is not increased in canine cPSS with and without HE. We found no evidence that altered melatonin metabolism plays a role in the pathogenesis of cPSS-associated HE.

BACKGROUND: Current tests for diagnosing liver disease in dogs are sub-optimal. MicroRNA-122 (miR-122) is a sensitive and specific biomarker of liver injury in humans and rodents. Circulating miR-122 could have utility in identifying dogs with liver disease.OBJECTIVE: Establish the reference interval for miR-122 in healthy dogs and determine performance in a range of dog breeds with liver disease and control animals with non-liver disease.ANIMALS: Stored serum from 120 healthy dogs, 100 dogs with non-liver diseases, and 30 dogs with histologically confirmed liver disease was analyzed.METHODS: Retrospective study. Medical records of dogs with liver disease, non-liver disease and healthy dogs were reviewed. Serum miR-122 concentrations were measured by PCR and compared with the characteristics of the dogs and their conventional clinical measurements.RESULTS: In healthy dogs the 2.5th, 50th, and 97.5th quartiles of miR-122 were 110 (90% CI 80-114), 594 (505-682), and 3312 (2925-5144) copies/μL, respectively. There was no difference between healthy dogs and dogs with non-liver disease (median ± IQR: healthy dogs 609 [327-1014] copies/μL; non-liver disease 607 [300-1351] copies/μL). miR-122 was higher in dogs with liver disease (11 332 [4418-20 520] copies/μL, P < .001 compared to healthy dogs). miR-122 identified dogs with liver disease with high accuracy (receiver operating characteristic area under curve for comparison with healthy dogs: 0.93 [95% CI 0.86-0.99]). The upper limit of normal for healthy dogs (3312 copies/μL) had a sensitivity of 77% and specificity of 97% for identifying liver disease.CONCLUSION AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE: Liver disease can be sensitively and specifically diagnosed in dogs by measurement of miR-122.

Background: Chronic Enteropathies (CE) are a common cause of morbidity in dogs. Chronic enteropathies are diagnosed in dogs with chronic gastrointestinal clinical signs (>3 weeks), inflammatory changes on intestinal biopsies and where no other underlying cause is determined based on a thorough, standardised diagnostic workup. Based on response to therapy, CE are sub-classified into food-responsive, antibiotic-responsive or steroid-responsive enteropathies. A significant proportion of dogs with a CE are food-responsive; however, there are limited peer-reviewed publications describing the clinical efficacy of the commercially available diets used to treat CE. Methods: In this study, we evaluated the response of 15 dogs with a CE to a commercially available dietetic food (Hill’s TM Prescription Diet TM i/d TM Sensitive Canine Dry). The dogs underwent a standard diagnostic evaluation, and did not receive concurrent anthelmintic, antibiotic, glucocorticoid or gastroprotectant therapies. The clinical efficacy of the dietary treatment was assessed by comparing the Canine Inflammatory Bowel Disease Activity Index (CIBDAI) before and a median of 13 days after dietary therapy. Results: We found that the CIBDAI significantly decreased following the introduction of the dietetic food (median CIBDAI score pre treatment 9, post treatment 2 (p

Hepatic encephalopathy is a frequent and debilitating complication of liver disorders. Lactulose is an established and reasonably effective treatment, yet with incompletely understood mechanisms of action. The aims of this study were to examine how the faecal microbiota composition changed before, during and after lactulose treatment in a large animal model. Healthy, privately owned dogs (n = 18) completed a prospective cohort study. Faecal samples were collected weekly, while the subjects were either on their usual diet (week 1), or a standardised diet (weeks 2–9), with added oral lactulose in weeks 6–7. DNA extraction and 16S rRNA gene sequencing were undertaken. Faecal samples from week 7 had a significantly lower microbiota richness/diversity, based on observed operational taxonomic units, Shannon/Chao1 indexes and Pielou’s Evenness. Beta diversity based on UniFrac distances was significantly different in week 7 compared to weeks 1, 5 and 9. At the phylum level, week 7 was associated with a significant increase of Firmicutes and Actinobacteria, and a decrease of Bacteroidetes and Fusobacteria, when compared to weeks 5 and 9. In summary, we have shown that lactulose induces a reversible qualitative and quantitative change of the faecal microbiota, which may explain its clinical efficacy in the management of hepatic encephalopathy.

Standard operating procedures, including World Health Organization guidelines for packed cell volume, are established for in-clinic laboratory tests. No independent, evidence-based guidelines exist for dipstick urinalysis; however, manufacturer's instructions state to dip the stick into urine. In veterinary medicine, small volume urine samples could preclude dipping; therefore, a single drip per pad from a pipette or syringe is often performed. This study aimed to examine the differences between these two urine application methods prior to analysis, with the hypothesis that the method type would not effect on test results of dipstick analysis. To standardize the strip analysis method, a Siemens Clinitek Status + analyzer was used with Multistix10SG dipsticks. Three investigators tested urines from 53 dogs with a range of diseases by both methods. Results were assessed for the degree of agreement between the methods and within method variability. Overall, the agreement between methods was high. Within each method, the drip method variability was higher than that of the dip method (P = 0.012). Disagreements between methods were present, with pH and blood having the lowest agreement levels. Glucose was more likely to be positive on the drip compared with the dip methodology. This study demonstrates potential clinically relevant differences between the two methods and a higher level of variability with the drip methodology. Therefore, while the drip method could be used for practical reasons (eg, low sample volumes), this study supports the manufacturer's recommended method of dipping the dip stick into urine rather than dripping urine onto each pad with a pipette or syringe.

Objectives To identify whether inter- and intra-operator variability occurs in the measurement of canine packed cell volume and, if so, at which stage these errors occur. Materials and Methods Undergraduate veterinary students and veterinary surgeons were recruited to measure the packed cell volumes of three samples in duplicate. Measurements from each sample were confirmed by one author, and it was then ascertained whether the error was made in the capillary preparation or reading. Results Data were obtained from 44 students and 11 vets. A total of 25% of students made errors associated with inadequate mixing; 23% students and 9% of vets made errors consistent with incorrect reading. There was also less intra-operator variation in values within the vet group (0·027 from the mean) in comparison to the student group (−0·21 from the mean). A total of 68·2% of students and 91% of vets filled the capillary tubes outwith World Health Organisation standards of two-thirds to three-quarters full. Clinical Significance Packed cell volume measurement is extremely useful when measuring erythroid mass, but it is crucial that the results upon which decisions are made are accurate and precise in order to manage these cases appropriately. Operator variation is a significant factor and must be addressed by proper training and following standard operating procedures.

An 11-month-old female entire West Highland White Terrier presented for chronic diarrhea with acute deterioration in demeanor and progression to systemic inflammatory response syndrome. Transcutaneous abdominal ultrasonography identified colonic ulceration and secondary mucosal gas. Suspected hepatic portal vein gas and hepatic parenchyma gas were also visualized. The patient was stabilized and managed for ulcerative colitis. Based on endoscopic biopsies, the dog was diagnosed with severe, chronic, pyogranulomatous colitis. On repeat ultrasonographic evaluation the portal vein and hepatic gas had resolved but the patient deteriorated and was ultimately euthanized due to sepsis.

Craig Breheny and Adam Gow of the Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, University of Edinburgh, take a closer look at this unusual condition.

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a common inflammatory skin disease of dogs. Interleukin (IL)-34 is a monocyte/macrophage growth factor, produced mainly by keratinocytes, that has been implicated in several human inflammatory conditions including human AD.Canine serum IL-34 concentrations are increased in dogs with AD and correlate with clinical lesion and pruritus scores.Forty seven client-owned dogs diagnosed with AD and 25 healthy, unaffected control dogs.A commercially available IL-34 ELISA was optimized for the measurement of IL-34 in canine serum samples. Information regarding treatment, clinical lesion scores [Canine Atopic Dermatitis Extent and Severity Index, 4th iteration (CADESI-04)] and pruritus Visual Analog Score (pVAS) were recorded for each dog at the time of serum collection.Dogs with AD had significantly increased serum IL-34 concentrations compared to controls. There was a significant positive correlation between IL-34 concentrations and CADESI-04 and pVAS scores. Concentrations of IL-34 remained increased in dogs with AD receiving steroids or the JAK1 inhibitor, oclacitinib, compared to unaffected control dogs.Serum IL-34 concentrations are increased in dogs with AD and are correlated with clinical severity and pruritus. IL-34 may be a suitable candidate therapeutic target for canine AD.La dermatite atopique (AD) est une dermatose inflammatoire fréquente chez le chien. L’interleukine (IL)-34 est un facteur de croissance des monocytes/macrophages principalement produit par les kératinocytes, et est impliqué dans plusieurs maladies inflammatoires de l’homme dont la dermatite atopique. HYPOTHÈSES: Les concentrations sériques d’IL-34 canin sont augmentées chez le chien atopique et corrèlent avec les scores de lésions cliniques et de prurit.Quarante sept chiens de propriétaires avec diagnostic d’AD et 25 chiens sains contrôles. MATÉRIELS ET MÉTHODES: Un test ELISA IL-34 disponible dans le commerce a été optimisé pour la mesure d’IL-34 des échantillons de serum de chien. Les données concernant le traitement, les scores clinique [Canine Atopic Dermatitis Extent and Severity Index, 4th iteration (CADESI-04)] et de prurit pVAS (pruritus Visual Analog Score) ont été enregistrés pour chaque chien au moment du prélèvement de serum. RÉSULTATS: Les chiens avec AD avaient des concentrations sériques d’IL-34 significativement plus élevées comparé aux contrôles. Il y avait une corrélation positive significative entre les concentrations d’IL-34 et les scores de CADESI-04 et pVAS. Les concentrations d’IL-34 restaient élevées chez les chiens atopiques recevant des corticoïdes ou l’inhibiteur de JAK1, l’oclacitinib, comparé aux chiens non atteints.Les concentrations sériques d’IL-34 sont augmentées chez les chiens atopiques et sont corrélés avec la sévérité du prurit et la clinique. L’IL-34 pourrait être une cible thérapeutique adaptée pour l’AD canine.INTRODUCCIÓN: la dermatitis atópica (AD) es una enfermedad cutánea inflamatoria común en los perros. La interlequina (IL)-34 es un factor de crecimiento de monocitos/macrófagos, producido principalmente por queratinocitos, que se ha implicado en varias afecciones inflamatorias humanas, incluida la AD humana. HIPÓTESIS: las concentraciones de IL-34 en suero canino están aumentadas en perros con AD y se correlacionan con las lesiones clínicas y los valores de prurito. ANIMALES: cuarenta y siete perros propiedad de clientes diagnosticados con AD y 25 perros de control sanos y no afectados. MÉTODOS Y MATERIALES: se optimizó un ELISA IL-34 disponible comercialmente para la medición de IL-34 en muestras de suero canino. La información sobre el tratamiento, los valores de lesiones clínicas (Índice de extensión y severidad de la dermatitis atópica canina, 4ta reevaluación (CADESI-04)) y el valor visual análogo del prurito (pVAS) se registraron para cada perro en el momento de la recolección de suero. RESULTADOS: los perros con AD presentaron un incremento significativo en las concentraciones séricas de IL-34 en comparación con los controles. Hubo una correlación positiva significativa entre las concentraciones de IL-34 y los valores de CADESI-04 y pVAS. Las concentraciones de IL-34 permanecieron aumentadas en perros con AD que recibieron esteroides o el inhibidor de JAK1, oclacitinib, en comparación con los perros de control no afectados. CONCLUSIONES E IMPORTANCIA CLÍNICA: las concentraciones séricas de IL-34 aumentan en perros con AD y se correlacionan con la gravedad clínica y el prurito. IL-34 puede ser un candidato adecuado a objetivo terapéutico para la AD canina.Die atopische Dermatitis (AD) ist eine häufige entzündliche Hauterkrankung bei Hunden. Interleukin (IL)-34 ist ein Monozyten/Makrophagen Wachstumsfaktor, der hauptsächlich von Keratinozyten produziert wird und bei mehreren entzündlichen Erkrankungen des Menschen wie auch der humanen AD eine Rolle spielt.Die caninen IL-34 Serumkonzentrationen sind bei Hunden mit AD erhöht und korrelieren mit klinischen Veränderungen und den Pruritus Werten.Siebenundvierzig Hunde in Privatbesitz, die mit AD diagnostiziert worden waren sowie 25 gesunde, nicht betroffene Kontrollhunde nahmen an der Studie teil.Ein kommerziell erhältlicher IL-34 ELISA wurde für die IL-34 Messung in caninen Serumproben optimiert. Es wurden die Informationen in Bezug auf die Behandlung, die klinischen Veränderungswerte [Canine Atopic Dermatitis Extent and Severity Index, 4te Ausgabe (CADESI-04)] und die Pruritus Visual Analog Score (pVAS) für jeden Hund zum Zeitpunkt der Serumgewinnung festgehalten.Hunde mit AD zeigten im Vergleich zu den Kontrollen signifikant erhöhte IL-34 Konzentrationen. Es bestand eine signifikant positive Korrelation zwischen den IL-34 Konzentrationen und dem CADESI-04 und den pVAS Werten. Die Konzentrationen von IL-34 blieben bei Hunden mit AD während der Verabreichung von Steroiden oder dem JAK1 Inhibitor, Oclacitinib, im Vergleich zu nicht betroffenen Kontrollhunden erhöht.Die Serum IL-34 Konzentrationen sind bei Hunden mit AD erhöht und mit dem klinischen Schweregrad und dem Juckreiz korreliert. IL-34 könnte ein passender Kandidat als therapeutisches Ziel für die AD des Hundes sein.背景: 异位性皮炎 (AD) 是犬常见的炎性皮肤病。白细胞介素 (IL)-34是一种单核/巨噬细胞生长因子，主要由角质细胞产生，角质细胞也参与包括人AD在内的多种人类炎症。 假设: AD患犬的血清IL-34浓度升高，并且与临床病变和瘙痒评分相关。 动物: 诊断为AD的47只私家犬和25只健康、无症状的对照犬。 方法和材料: 对测定犬血清IL-34的市售IL-34ELISA进行优化。采集血清时，记录每只犬的治疗信息、临床病变评分 [犬异位性皮炎程度和严重性指数，第4版 (CADESI-04)] 和瘙痒评分 (pVAS)。 结果: 与对照组相比， AD患犬的血清IL-34浓度显著升高。IL-34浓度与CADESI-04、pVAS评分呈显著正相关。与无症状对照犬相比，接受类固醇或JAK1抑制剂-奥拉替尼的AD患犬，其IL-34浓度保持升高。 结论和临床重要性: AD患犬血清IL-34浓度升高，并且与临床严重性和瘙痒相关。IL-34可能是犬AD治疗的合适备选靶点。.背景: アトピー性皮膚炎（AD）は、犬の一般的な炎症性皮膚疾患である。インターロイキン（IL）-34は、主にケラチノサイトによって産生される単球/マクロファージ増殖因子であり、人ADを含むいくつかの人の炎症疾患に関与しているとされている。 仮説: イヌの血清IL-34濃度は、AD犬で増加し、臨床病変および掻痒スコアと相関する。 被験動物: ADと診断されたクライアント所有犬47頭および健常で弛緩していない対照犬25頭。 材料と方法: 商業的に利用可能なIL-34 ELISAが、犬血清サンプル中のIL-34の測定用に最適化された。治療に関する情報、臨床病変スコア[犬のアトピー性皮膚炎の程度と重症度指数（CADESI-04）]および掻痒性視覚アナログスコア（pVAS）は、血清採取時に各犬について記録された。 結果: AD犬は、対照群と比較して血清IL-34濃度が大幅に増加した。 IL-34濃度とCADESI-04およびpVASスコアの間に有意な正の相関があった。 IL-34の濃度は、罹患していない対照犬と比較して、ステロイドまたはJAK1阻害剤であるオクラシチニブを投与されているAD犬で増加したままであった。 結論と臨床的重要性: AD犬では血清IL-34濃度が増加し、臨床的重症度と掻痒と相関している。 IL-34は犬ADの適切な候補治療標的であり得る。.A dermatite atópica (DA) é uma dermatopatia inflamatória comum de cães. A interleucina (IL) -34 é um fator de crescimento de monócitos / macrófagos, produzido principalmente por queratinócitos, que tem sido implicado em várias condições inflamatórias humanas, incluindo a DA. HIPÓTESE: As concentrações séricas de IL-34 canina aumentam em cães com DA e se correlacionam com os escores clínicos de lesões e prurido.Quarenta e sete cães diagnosticados com DA pertencentes a clientes e 25 cães saudáveis ​​e não afetados. MÉTODOS E MATERIAIS: Um kit de ELISA para IL-34 disponível comercialmente foi otimizado para a mensuração de IL-34 em amostras de soro canino. Informações sobre o tratamento, escores de lesões [Índice de severidade e extensão da dermatite atópica canina, 4ª iteração (CADESI-04)] e a escala analógica visual de prurido (pVAS) foram registrados para cada cão no momento da coleta de soro.Cães com DA apresentaram aumento significativo das concentrações séricas de IL-34 em comparação aos controles. Houve uma correlação positiva significativa entre as concentrações de IL-34 e os escores CADESI-04 e pVAS. As concentrações de IL-34 permaneceram aumentadas em cães com DA recebendo esteroides ou o inibidor de JAK1, oclacitinib, em comparação com cães controle não afetados. CONCLUSÕES E IMPORTÂNCIA CLÍNICA: As concentrações séricas de IL-34 estão aumentadas em cães com DA e estão correlacionadas com a gravidade clínica e o prurido. A IL-34 pode ser uma candidata adequada a alvo terapêutico para a DA canina.

Background: Liver disease is a common cause of morbidity and mortality in dogs. Currently it is challenging to prognosticate in these cases. The aim of this study was to evaluate the utility of the haematological variables in prognosticating dogs with chronic hepatitis. Methods: Dogs with chronic hepatitis confirmed on histopathology had presenting haematological values retrospectively obtained and evaluated against survival time. Eighty two dogs met the inclusion criteria and their data analysed. Results: Neutrophilic patients, with a count greater than 12 x 109/l, controlled for sex and age, had a shorter survival time (p = < 0.01). In dogs, neutrophilia at presentation predicted a poor outcome, whereas the other haematological parameters were not prognostically informative. When the dogs were split into even quarters on the basis of their neutrophil count, those within the higher quartiles had poorer survival times. Neutrophilia was associated with a poorer survival time in comparison to those patients with a lower count. Conclusion: The relationship between neutrophils, inflammation and clinical outcome is deserving of future study in dogs with chronic hepatitis.

Background – Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a common inflammatory skin disease of dogs. Macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) initiates pro-inflammatory cytokine release in human AD and serum concentrations are correlated with disease severity.Hypothesis – Canine serum MIF concentrations are increased in dogs with AD and correlate with clinical lesion and pruritus scores.Animals – Client owned dogs (n = 49) diagnosed with AD and 17 healthy, unaffected control dogs were usedfor the study.Methods and materials – A commercially available MIF ELISA was optimized for the dog and serum from clini-cal cases used. Information regarding treatment, Canine Atopic Dermatitis Extent and Severity Index, (CADESI-4) and pruritus Visual Analog Scale (pVAS) were recorded for each dog at the time of serum collection.Results – Dogs with AD which had not received steroid therapy and those treated with oclacitinib had significantly elevated serum MIF concentrations compared to controls. Concentrations of MIF were not significantly different in AD dogs receiving steroids compared to controls. There was no significant correlation between MIF concentrations and clinical scores (CADESI-4 or pVAS).Conclusions and clinical importance – Serum MIF concentrations are increased in dogs with AD and MIF might be a target for therapy.

Hyperammonaemia is a common complication of liver disease in dogs. High concentrations of ammonia can be detrimental to dogs with liver disease for several reasons, notably by causing hepatic encephalopathy (HE) which describes the wide range of neurological abnormalities ranging from altered behaviour to seizures that are well recognised complications in dogs with hepatic disorders. In human patients with liver disease, hyperammonaemia has also been linked to the development of other systemic complications such as dysregulation of the innate immune system. In contrast, the effects of hyperammonaemia on the canine innate immune system is currently unknown. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of ammonia on the oxidative burst activity of canine polymorphonuclear cells in vitro. Blood obtained from healthy dogs (n = 8) was incubated with escalating concentrations of ammonia ranging from 0 to 250 μM, and the percentage of cells experiencing an oxidative burst was evaluated using a commercial kit (Phagoburst™) and flow cytometry. The spontaneous oxidative burst was evaluated without stimulation and also following stimulation with E coli. The pH of the blood was also measured at the differing ammonia concentrations. There was an increase in the percentage of cells experiencing a spontaneous oxidative burst from ammonia concentrations of 125 μM (p =

Objective To determine whether a smartphone obtained image can be used to extrapolate the packed cell volume of canine blood samples. Design Prospective study of surplus blood obtained from clinical cases Setting University teaching hospital Interventions Blood samples were placed on filter paper and images were obtained with a smartphone in different environments. These results were then compared to the packed cell volume measurements on the same samples following the World Health Organisation guidelines. Measurements 69 samples were assessed and identified that smartphone images, obtained in a controlled environment, were able to predict the packed cell volume of the samples. This prediction was most accurate when assessing samples of a normal erythroid mass or polycythaemic samples. Conclusions The results of this study suggest that smartphone obtained images are indeed of use when correlated with canine packed cell volume. If this can be incorporated into a smartphone application, there would be scope to use this in low resource settings.

Urine dipstick results may vary between operators/methods. The magnitude of variation across the veterinary field is currently unknown. The aim of this study was to compare the precision of urine dipstick results between standard direct visual and automated reading methods, when performed by several operators. Urine samples were pooled and divided into three aliquots: one plain, one with glucose, and one with serum. Final year students, veterinary surgeons and veterinary nurses, blinded to each sample, were then asked to perform dipstick analysis with direct visualization and an automated analyser, and their technique was observed. A subsequent session was undertaken with samples which had pH titrated to achieve an acidic, neutral or alkaline value. Sixty-four veterinary students, 20 veterinary surgeons and seven veterinary nurses, performed the first (n=61) or second (n=30) part of the study. Precision was greater using the automated reader. The most common observed technique errors were; lack of sample mixing, for both visual and automated methods, and not timing readings as per manufacturer instructions, when performing visual analysis. This study suggests that in an environment with multiple operators, as is the case in veterinary teaching or large private hospitals, automated urine dipstick reading improves precision of results.

Hypermanganesemia is commonly recognized in human patients with hepatic insufficiency and portosystemic shunting. Since manganese is neurotoxic, increases in brain manganese concentrations have been implicated in the development of hepatic encephalopathy although a direct causative role has yet to be demonstrated. Evaluate manganese concentrations in dogs with a naturally occurring congenital shunt before and after attenuation as well as longitudinally following the changes in hepatic encephalopathy grade. Our study demonstrated that attenuation of the shunt resolved encephalopathy, significantly reduced postprandial bile acids, yet a hypermanganasemic state persisted. This study demonstrates that resolution of hepatic encephalopathy can occur without the correction of hypermanganesemia, indicating that increased manganese concentrations alone do not play a causative role in encephalopathy. Our study further demonstrates the value of the canine congenital portosystemic shunt as a naturally occurring spontaneous model of human hepatic encephalopathy.

Lethargy is a frequent and important clinical feature of anaemia; however, it does not absolutely correlate with the severity of anaemia. Manganese is efficiently absorbed through the gastrointestinal tract via divalent metal transporter 1 (DMT1), which is also responsible for iron transport. DMT1 is upregulated in iron deficiency (ID). Increased manganese concentrations are reported in ID anaemia (IDA) in various species. Manganese is neurotoxic and therefore may contribute to lethargy observed in some anaemic patients. In addition, anaemia and ID are common in human inflammatory bowel disease. Little is known about how anaemia influences manganese metabolism in veterinary patients and how common is anaemia in dogs with chronic enteropathy (CE). If elevated manganese concentrations are found, then potentially neurotoxicity may be contributing to morbidity in these cases. The objectives of this study were to investigate the hypothesis that whole blood manganese concentrations would be increased in dogs with anaemia, particularly in dogs with confirmed IDA, and that anaemia would be common in canine CE. Medical records from 2012-2016 were reviewed for dogs with CE that were anaemic, as well as dogs with confirmed IDA, where a sample suitable for manganese analysis was held in an archive. Manganese concentration was measured in whole blood from: 11 anaemic dogs with CE, 6 dogs with IDA, 9 non-anaemic ill controls, and 12 healthy controls. Mann-Whitney U and Kruskal-Wallis tests with post-test Dunn’s multiple comparisons tests were performed, with P

Objectives: To evaluate whether a standard operating procedure for canine packed cell volume (PCV) measurement reduces operator dependent variation, and improves accuracy within a veterinary teaching hospital environment. Material and methods: Clinical staff and final year undergraduate veterinary students were recruited to perform PCV measurements in blinded duplicate samples. Participants were randomly allocated to perform this with, or without, a standard operating procedure (SOP). Participants’ results were compared against a reference, generated by the authors following the World Health Organisation guidelines. Results: The study population comprised 18 clinical staff and 39 students. Three clinical staff and seven students displayed errors consistent with inaccurate reading, only one of which had access to the SOP. Five students and two clinical staff, had errors attributable to incorrect preparation, with only one having access to the SOP. Inter-operator variation was significantly less using the SOP. Using the SOP, 95% of results were within 0.0125 L/L of the reference value, in comparison to within 0.09 L/L without SOP. Inter-operator variation was significantly less in the SOP group (p = 0.0025).Clinical significance: Using the standard operating procedure resulted in less variation and more accurate results. This confirms that PCV measurement with an SOP can truly be a “waived” test.

Summary In morphological terms, “form” is used to describe an object’s shape and size. In dogs, facial form is stunningly diverse. Facial retrusion, the proximodistal shortening of the snout and widening of the hard palate is common to brachycephalic dogs and is a welfare concern, as the incidence of respiratory distress and ocular trauma observed in this class of dogs is highly correlated with their skull form. Progress to identify the molecular underpinnings of facial retrusion is limited to association of a missense mutation in BMP3 among small brachycephalic dogs. Here, we used morphometrics of skull isosurfaces derived from 374 pedigree and mixed-breed dogs to dissect the genetics of skull form. Through deconvolution of facial forms, we identified quantitative trait loci that are responsible for canine facial shapes and sizes. Our novel insights include recognition that the FGF4 retrogene insertion, previously associated with appendicular chondrodysplasia, also reduces neurocranium size. Focusing on facial shape, we resolved a quantitative trait locus on canine chromosome 1 to a 188-kb critical interval that encompasses SMOC2. An intronic, transposable element within SMOC2 promotes the utilization of cryptic splice sites, causing its incorporation into transcripts, and drastically reduces SMOC2 gene expression in brachycephalic dogs. SMOC2 disruption affects the facial skeleton in a dose-dependent manner. The size effects of the associated SMOC2 haplotype are profound, accounting for 36% of facial length variation in the dogs we tested. Our data bring new focus to SMOC2 by highlighting its clinical implications in both human and veterinary medicine., Highlights • A population-based genetics study of dogs that required diagnostic imaging • Resolution of a QTL associated with face length reduction (brachycephaly) • Association of brachycephaly with a retrotransposon that disrupts SMOC2 splicing • The SMOC2 locus explains up to 36% of face length variation in dogs, Uncovering the molecular basis of dogs’ vastly diverse skull shapes requires individualized approaches to morphometrics and genotyping. Using data from veterinary referral patients, Marchant et al. shed light on a large effect locus that is responsible for face length reduction (brachycephaly).

This article reviews hepatic encephalopathy (HE) in companion animals. Clinical signs and categories of hepatic disease likely to cause HE are discussed. Ammonia has a key role in pathogenesis and current concepts in body ammonia metabolism are reviewed. Inflammation and manganese accumulation are also thought to be important in pathogenesis. Treatment of HE in acute and chronic cases is discussed along with the rationale for current treatment recommendations. Potential avenues for new treatments and human treatments, which may be transferable to companion animals, are reviewed.

Objectives Increased whole blood manganese concentrations have been reported in humans with primary liver disease. Due to the neurotoxic effects of manganese, altered manganese homeostasis has been linked to the development of hepatic encephalopathy. Whole blood manganese concentrations are increased in cases of canine congenital portosystemic shunts, but it remains unclear whether dogs with primary hepatopathies also have altered manganese homeostasis. Methods Whole blood manganese concentrations were measured by graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry in 21 dogs with primary hepatitis, 65 dogs with a congenital portosystemic shunt, 31 dogs with non-hepatic illnesses and 18 healthy dogs. Results The whole blood manganese concentrations were significantly different between dogs with primary hepatitis, dogs with non-hepatic illnesses and healthy dogs (P=0·002). Dogs with primary hepatitis had significantly increased whole blood manganese concentrations compared with healthy dogs (P

There is increasing concern that reproductive isolation related to breed specifications in dogs, while maintaining genetic differences among breeds, is likely to promote breed-specific genetic disorders. This study examined genetic diversity among 13 popular dog breed groups in the UK. Most breeds showed high levels of homozygosity when compared with crossbred animals. The Boxer and West Highland white terrier showed the lowest heterozygosity, while the Jack Russell terrier group (not a registered breed in the UK) had a level of heterozygosity comparable to crossbred dogs. Analysis of genetic distance between breeds showed significantly different inbreeding coefficients for pairwise comparisons among registered breeds, with the most divergent breeds being the Boxer and West Highland white terrier. The Rottweiler and Golden retriever showed the highest levels of inbreeding. The least distinct group contained crossbred dogs. The results show that the registered breeds are subject to a 'breed barrier' which promotes reduction in genetic diversity.

A 2-year-old female Yorkshire Terrier dog presented with neurological deficits. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed an 8 mm in diameter mass centered left of midline arising from the quadrigeminal cistern, with a fatty or proteinaceous content. A further fat signal intensity focus was present in the tip of the temporal horn of the right lateral ventricle, in keeping with a “floating” fat embolus within the cerebrospinal fluid. A ruptured dermoid cyst was diagnosed. Within the frontal lobe on both sides were ill-defined and extensive high T2 signal areas, with mass effect within the white matter, and asymmetrical contrast enhancement following intravenous injection of gadolinium. Postmortem gross and histological examination confirmed the mass in the quadrigeminal cistern to be a dermoid cyst. In addition, severe multifocal necrotizing granulomatous leukoencephalomyelitis was found in the corona radiata and spinal cord. The relationship between these 2 pathologies is discussed.

OBJECTIVES: To compare serum vitamin D metabolites and plasma parathyroid hormone concentrations in dogs with inflammatory bowel disease and normal albumin concentration, dogs with inflammatory bowel disease and hypoalbuminaemia, healthy dogs and hospitalised ill dogs with non-gastrointestinal illness. METHODS: Serum 25 hydroxyvitamin D and 1,25 dihydroxyvitamin D concentrations were measured in 36 healthy dogs, 49 hospitalised ill dogs with non-gastrointestinal illnesses, 21 dogs with inflammatory bowel disease and normoalbuminaemia and 12 dogs with inflammatory bowel disease and hypoalbuminaemia. Plasma parathyroid hormone and ionised calcium concentrations were measured in a subset of these dogs. RESULTS: Concentrations of serum 25 hydroxyvitamin D were lower in hypoalbuminaemic dogs with inflammatory bowel disease than in the healthy dogs (P

Objectives: The assessment of serum cardiac troponin I concentrations in dogs with a range of nonprimary cardiac illnesses has revealed that cardiac myocyte damage is commonplace in many canine diseases. Whilst it is well established that dogs with fatal immune-mediated haemolytic anaemia frequently have cardiac pathology based on post-mortem examinations, there is limited information on the incidence of cardiac myocyte damage in this population of dogs. Methods: Serum cardiac troponin I concentrations were measured in 11 healthy dogs, 27 dogs with primary haemolytic anaemia and 49 hospitalised dogs without primary cardiac or haematological disorders. Results: Dogs with primary haemolytic anaemia have higher serum concentrations of cardiac troponin I than hospitalised ill dogs (P

The concentrations of C-reactive protein (CRP), serum amyloid A, haptoglobin (Hp) and alpha(1)-acid glycoprotein were measured in dogs with clinical signs of nasal disease and compared with those of healthy dogs in order to determine the expression of these proteins in cases of canine nasal disease A significant difference (P

Background: Manganese (Mn) is an essential mineral that is a cofactor for many enzymes required in the synthesis of proteins, carbohydrates, and lipids. Because hepatic clearance is essential in Mn homeostasis, conditions in humans resulting in hepatic insufficiency including cirrhosis and both acquired and congenital portosystemic shunting have been reported to result in increased blood Mn concentrations and increased Mn content in the central nervous system. Because Mn toxicity causes neurologic disturbances, increased Mn concentrations have been implicated in the pathogenesis of hepatic encephalopathy. Hypotheses: Dogs with congenital portosystemic shunts (cPSS) have significantly higher whole blood Mn concentrations than do healthy dogs or those with nonhepatic illnesses. Animals: Eighteen dogs with cPSS, 26 dogs with nonhepatic illnesses, and 14 healthy dogs. Methods: Whole blood Mn was measured by graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry. The diagnosis of cPSS was made by ultrasonography or during celiotomy either by visual inspection of a shunting vessel or portovenography. Results: Dogs with a cPSS had significantly higher whole blood Mn concentrations than did healthy dogs and dogs with nonhepatic illnesses. Whole blood Mn concentrations were not significantly different between healthy dogs and dogs with nonhepatic illnesses. Conclusion and Clinical Importance: Dogs with a cPSS have significantly increased whole blood Mn concentrations. Additional studies are warranted to investigate the role of Mn in cPSS-associated hepatic encephalopathy.

A 1-year-old, entire male Flat-Coated Retriever wasreferred with a six-day history of acute onset vomiting.Vomiting had started 24 hours after scavenging acarcass whilst out on a walk.Supportive treatment withintravenous fluids and metoclopramide had producedonly a temporary improvement.Some diarrhoea hadbeen noted initially although this had resolved andno faeces had been passed for four days.On day six,a high gastrointestinal obstruction was suspected bythe referring veterinary surgeon, based on clinicalsigns, electrolyte imbalances and blood pH. Anexploratory coeliotomy was performed but noobvious obstruction was identified, although thestomach appeared distended and fluid filled. Gastricfluid had been removed via stomach tube.The caserecovered from general anaesthesia and was referredat this point.Apart from this illness, the dog had noother relevant clinical history.

A six-year-old neutered male Jack Russell terrier was presented two years after importation into the UK from southern Africa with severe anaemia and abdominal distension. Abdominal ultrasonography revealed the presence of hepato-splenomegaly and ascites. A diagnosis of trypanosomosis was made by blood smear examination. Shortly after admission the dog collapsed and died. PCR analysis revealed a single infection with Trypanosoma congolense savannah type. This is the first reported case of canine African trypanosomosis in Europe and suggests that chronic trypanosomosis may allow importation of the disease in apparently asymptomatic animals, even with extended quarantine periods.