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ZusammenfassungEin 3 Monate alter, männlicher Shar Pei-Welpe wurde wegen Mattigkeit, Fieber und Hautödemen vorgestellt. Durch weiterführende Untersuchungen konnten eine oberflächliche Pyodermie mit Streptococcus canis und eine akute neutrophile Vaskulitis diagnostiziert werden. Es erfolgte eine symptomatische und antibiotische Therapie in Kombination mit Immunsuppressiva (initial Prednisolon, später Ciclosporin) Therapie. Im weiteren Verlauf traten Komplikationen in Form von Dyspnoe, Anämie, großflächigen Hautulzera, Nekrosen und eine Sekundärinfektion mit multiresistenten Bakterien auf. Durch intensivmedizinische Betreuung konnte der Hund nach 38 Tagen entlassen und in den folgenden Wochen die Dosis der Immunsuppressiva reduziert und die Medikamente nach 4 Monaten abgesetzt werden.

A 3-month old male Shar-Pei was presented for lethargy, fever and cutaneous edema. Further investigations revealed superficial pyoderma withEin 3 Monate alter, männlicher Shar Pei-Welpe wurde wegen Mattigkeit, Fieber und Hautödemen vorgestellt. Durch weiterführende Untersuchungen konnten eine oberflächliche Pyodermie mit

A total of 215 isolates from infections of dogs and cats, including 49 Enterococcus faecalis, 37 Enterococcus faecium, 59 Escherichia coli, 56 Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and 14 Acinetobacter baumannii, were investigated for their susceptibility to 27 (Gram-positive bacteria) or 20 (Gram-negative bacteria) antimicrobial agents/combinations of antimicrobial agents by broth microdilution according to the recommendations of the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute. Moreover, all isolates were analysed for their susceptibility to the biocides benzalkonium chloride, chlorhexidine, polyhexanide, and octenidine by a recently published broth microdilution biocide susceptibility testing method. While the E. faecalis isolates did not show expanded resistances, considerable numbers of the E. faecium isolates were resistant to penicillins, macrolides, tetracyclines, and fluoroquinolones. Even a single vancomycin-resistant isolate that carried the vanA gene cluster was detected. Expanded multiresistance phenotypes were also detected among the E. coli isolates, including a single carbapenem-resistant, blaOXA-48-positive isolate. In addition, multiresistant A. baumannii isolates were detected. The minimal inhibitory concentrations of the biocides showed unimodal distributions but differed with respect to the biocide and the bacterial species investigated. Although there were no indications of a development of biocide resistance, some P. aeruginosa isolates exhibited benzalkonium MICs higher than the highest test concentration.

A total of 114 Staphylococcus isolates from various infections of companion animals, including 43 feline Staphylococcus aureus, 19 canine S. aureus, 11 feline Staphylococcus pseudintermedius and 41 canine S. pseudintermedius were investigated for (i) their susceptibility to 24 antimicrobial agents and three combinations of antimicrobial agents by broth microdilution following CLSI recommendations and (ii) the corresponding resistance genes. In addition, the isolates were tested for their susceptibility to the four biocides benzalkonium chloride, chlorhexidine, polyhexanide and octenidine by a recently developed biocide susceptibility testing protocol. Penicillin resistance via blaZ was the dominant resistance property in all four groups of isolates ranging between 76.7 and 90.9%. About one quarter of the isolates (25.4%) proved to be methicillin-resistant and carried the genes mecA or mecC. Macrolide resistance was the second most prevalent resistance property (27.2%) and all isolates harbored the resistance genes erm(A), erm(B), erm(C), erm(T) or msr(A), alone or in combinations. Fluoroquinolone resistance was detected in 21.1% of all isolates tested, whereas tetracycline resistance via tet(K) and/or tet(M) occurred in 19.3% of the isolates. Resistance to last resort antimicrobial agents in human medicine was seen only in single isolates, if at all. The minimal inhibitory concentrations (MICs) of the four biocides showed unimodal distributions and were very similar for the four groups of staphylococci. Because of the large number of (multi)resistant isolates, antimicrobial susceptibility testing of feline and canine S. aureus and S. pseudintermedius isolates is highly recommended before the start of an antimicrobial chemotherapy. Moreover, no hints towards the development of biocide resistance were detected.

Canine babesiosis caused by Babesia canis (Piana & Galli-Valerio, 1895) is emerging in new regions in Europe since its vector Dermacentor reticulatus (Fabricius, 1794) is expanding its geographic range. In the Berlin/Brandenburg area in northeast Germany, D. reticulatus is highly abundant but in the past only one autochthonous B. canis infection was reported. Since 2015, autochthonous cases were occasionally diagnosed but numbers increased since autumn 2019. The aim of the study was to genotype autochthonous canine Babesia spp. infections from Berlin/Brandenburg. Between 04/2015 and 01/2022, 46 dogs with acute babesiosis were presented to the small animal clinic (one dog was infected twice resulting in 47 samples). There were 32 dogs that had never left Berlin/Brandenburg and 14 others that had not left the region in the 6 weeks prior to disease onset. PCRs targeting the 18S rRNA and the Bc28.1 merozoite surface antigen were positive in 47 and 42 samples, respectively. Sequencing of cloned PCR products identified all samples as B. canis with 17 18S rRNA and 12 Bc28.1 haplotypes. Based on network analysis for 18S rRNA sequences and a previously described polymorphic dinucleotide, samples were assigned to two distinct clusters. One contained 31 and the other 16 samples. Using network analysis, the Bc28.1 haplotypes could also be separated into two clusters differing by at least five polymorphisms. Analyses of sequences from multiple clones indicated the presence of up to five 18S rRNA and eight Bc28.1 haplotypes and thus high parasite variability in an individual host. The genetic diversity could suggest that the parasites in the region have multiple origins, but diversity in individual dogs and dog populations from endemic regions is unknown. The suitability of both markers for genotyping is questionable due to potential intragenomic diversity for the rRNA and high intergenomic variability for the Bc28.1 marker.

A total of 215 isolates from infections of dogs and cats, including 49

A total of 114

Objectives To describe the clinical features and outcome of dogs after chocolate ingestion. Material and methods Retrospective evaluation of clinical signs, clinical pathological findings, therapy and outcome of 156 dogs after chocolate ingestion. The concentration of methylxanthines (theobromine, caffeine) was calculated based on the type of chocolate and the amount ingested. Results One hundred and twelve dogs had no clinical signs. Forty-four dogs had clinical signs of chocolate intoxication. Twenty-eight of these 44 dogs ingested dark and bitter chocolate. Reasons for presentation were agitation (33), tremor (22), vomiting (21), panting (11), polyuria/polydipsia (seven) and diarrhea (two). Common clinical findings were sinus tachycardia (28), tachypnea/panting (14), hyperthermia (10) and dehydration (seven). Clinical pathological findings in 34 of 44 dogs consisted of hyperlactataemia (23), hypokalaemia (16), mild hyperglycaemia (16) and mild alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) elevation (14). After decontamination (apomorphine, activated carbon) and symptomatic treatment (fluid therapy, esmolol, forced diuresis, sedatives), 43 of the 44 dogs survived. Clinical significance In dogs with potential chocolate intoxication, the type and amount of chocolate and the time of ingestion are important factors. Cardiovascular, neurological and gastrointestinal signs are the most common clinical signs. In this case series, the prognosis after decontamination and symptomatic therapy was good, with a mortality rate of less than 3%.

ObjectivesCross-matching is currently recommended as part of pre-transfusion testing for repeat transfusions in cats 4 days after having received an initial transfusion. This prospective study determined when and if cats developed positive cross-match (CM) results after having been transfused with AB-compatible blood.MethodsDonors were selected according to standard transfusion safety protocols. Twenty-one hospitalised anaemic recipients (blood type A: n = 20; blood type B: n = 1) received 1–4 (median 2) whole blood transfusions (WBTs) over 1–6 days (median 2) in 33 transfusion instances. The tube CM method, including major, minor and recipient control, was employed. Macroscopic and microscopic agglutination reactions were evaluated according to a predetermined scale. CM tests with a positive recipient control could not be evaluated.ResultsNo signs of an acute transfusion reaction were observed. A total of 63 CMs were performed. In one cat with immune-mediated haemolytic anaemia the CM could not be evaluated (positive recipient control). The minor CM was negative in all cases. Fifteen of 20 cats had a negative major CM (MCM) 1–12 days (median 5) after their first transfusion. A positive MCM was observed in five cases after 2–10 days (median 5) post-first WBT. These five cats had received a total of 1–4 (median 2) WBTs. Cats with a negative MCM had received 1–3 (median 2) WBTs. In 51.5% (17/33) of transfusion instances, the cat’s haematocrit increased as expected, with cats with a positive MCM at 40% (4/10) vs 56.5% (13/23) if MCM was negative.Conclusions and relevanceTwenty-five percent (5/20) of the feline recipients likely developed alloantibodies against erythrocyte antigens outside of the AB system as early as 2 days post-first WBT. This adds data to the recommendation to include cross-matching in pre-transfusion screening tests.

Blepharitis is a common finding in many dogs with various skin diseases.To establish a definition for canine blepharitis versus periocular dermatitis (POD), to evaluate the clinical findings and underlying skin diseases of blepharitis, and to document the effects of blepharitis on tear production in dogs.One hundred and two privately owned dogs with clinical signs of blepharitis and a definitive diagnosis of skin disease.Prospective evaluation of clinical signs and underlying diseases in dogs with blepharitis alone compared to dogs with blepharitis and POD.Brachycephalic dogs were significantly more likely to present with blepharitis than other breeds. Twenty five dogs had blepharitis alone [three dogs (2.9%) without and 22 dogs (21.5%) with cutaneous lesion beyond the periocular skin]. Seventy one of 102 (69%) presented with POD in addition to blepharitis. In six cases a differentiation between blepharitis and POD was not possible. Typical lesions included alopecia/hypotrichosis (97%), erythema (93%), eyelid oedema (50%) and crusts (39.2%). Allergic skin disease (52%) was the most common underlying cause of blepharitis, followed by infectious/parasitic diseases (21.5%), autoimmune disorders (17.7%) and neoplasia (4.9%). Four dogs could not be allocated to any of these disease groups. A diagnosis of parasitism was always accompanied by POD. Reduced tear production was detected in ten of the 53 dogs tested (18.8%).Blepharitis occurring in the absence of other skin lesions is rare. The most common underlying cause of blepharitis is allergic dermatitis. Measurement of tear production should be recommended in all cases of blepharitis.La blépharite est fréquente chez de nombreux chiens présentant des dermatoses.Déterminer une définition de la blépharite canine versus la dermatite périoculaire (POD), évaluer les données clinique et les dermatoses sous jacentes des blépharites et de documenter les effets de la blépharite sur la production de larmes chez le chien.Cent deux chiens de propriétaires avec e signes cliniques de blépharite et un diagnostic définitif de dermatose. MATÉRIEL ET MÉTHODE: Une évaluation prospective des signes cliniques et des dermatoses sous jacentes chez les chiens avec une blépharite seule comparé aux chiens avec blépharite et POD. RÉSULTATS: Les chiens brachycéphales est significativement plus représentés que les autres races pour la blépharite. Vingt cinq chiens avaient une blépharite seule [trois chiens (2.9%) sans et 22 chiens (21.5%) avec des lésions cutanées dont la peau périoculaire]. soixante et onze sur 102 (69%) présentaient une POD en plus de la blépharite. Dans six cas une différentiation entre la blépharite et la POD n’était pas possible. Les lésions typiques incluaient alopécie/hypothrichose (97%), érythème (93%), œdème des paupières (50%) et croutes (39,2%). La dermatose allergique (52%) était la cause sous jacente la plus fréquente de la blépharite, suivie des dermatoses parasitaires/infectieuses (21,5%), les troubles auto-immuns (17,7%) et néoplasie (4,9%). Quatre chiens n'ont pas pu être alloué à un de ces groupes. Un diagnostic de parasitisme a toujours est accompagné de POD. Une diminution e la production des larmes a été détectée pour dix des 53 chiens testés (18,8%).La blépharite sans autre lésions cutanée est rare. La cause sousjacente la plu fréquente de blépharite est la dermatite allergique. La mesure de la production de larme devrait être recommandée dans tous les cas de blépharite.INTRODUCCIÓN: la blefaritis es un hallazgo común en muchos perros con diversas enfermedades de la piel. OBJETIVOS: establecer una definición de blefaritis canina frente a dermatitis periocular (POD), evaluar los hallazgos clínicos y las enfermedades subyacentes de la blefaritis y documentar los efectos de la blefaritis en la producción de lágrimas en perros. ANIMALES: Ciento dos perros de propietarios particulares con signos clínicos de blefaritis y un diagnóstico definitivo de enfermedad de la piel. MÉTODOS Y MATERIALES: EVALUACIÓN PROSPECTIVA DE SIGNOS CLÍNICOS Y ENFERMEDADES SUBYACENTES EN PERROS CON: blefaritis sola en comparación con perros con blefaritis y POD. RESULTADOS: los perros braquicefálicos fueron significativamente más propensos a presentar blefaritis que otras razas. Veinticinco perros tenían blefaritis sola [tres perros (2,9%) sin y 22 perros (21,5%) con lesión cutánea más allá de la piel periocular]. Setenta y uno de 102 (69%) presentó POD además de blefaritis. En seis casos no fue posible una diferenciación entre blefaritis y POD. Las lesiones típicas incluyeron alopecia/hipotricosis (97%), eritema (93%), edema del párpado (50%) y costras (39,2%). La enfermedad alérgica de la piel (52%) fue la causa subyacente más común de la blefaritis, seguida de enfermedades infecciosas/parasitarias (21,5%), los trastornos autoinmunes (17,7%) y la neoplasia (4,9%). Cuatro perros no pudieron ser asignados a ninguno de estos grupos de enfermedades. Un diagnóstico de parasitismo siempre estuvo acompañado de POD. Se detectó una reducción en la producción de lágrimas en diez de los 53 perros analizados (18,8%). CONCLUSIÓN: la blefaritis que ocurre en ausencia de otras lesiones cutáneas es rara. La causa subyacente más común de blefaritis es una dermatitis alérgica. La medición de la producción de lágrimas debe recomendarse en todos los casos de blefaritis.Eine Blepharitis tritt häufig bei vielen Hunden mit verschiedenen Hauterkrankungen auf.Eine Definition für die Blepharitis des Hundes zu erstellen im Kontrast zu einer periokulären Dermatitis (POD), eine Evaluierung der klinischen Befunde und der zugrundeliegenden Hauterkrankungen einer Blepahritis, und eine Dokumentation der Auswirkungen einer Blepharitis auf die Tränenproduktion bei Hunden.Einhundertzwei Hunde in Privatbesitz mit klinischen Anzeichen einer Blepharitis und einer definitiven Diagnose einer Hauterkrankung.Eine prospektive Evaluierung der klinischen Zeichen und der zugrundeliegenden Erkrankungen bei Hunden mit einer Blepharitis alleine im Vergleich zu Hunden mit Blepharitis und POD.Brachycephale Hunde wurden signifikant häufiger mit einer Blepharitis präsentiert als andere Rassen. Fünfundzwanzig Hunde zeigten nur eine Blepharitis [drei Hunde (2,9%) ohne und 22 Hunde(21,5%) mit Hautveränderungen über die periokuläre Haut hinaus]. Einundsiebzig von 102 (69%) wurden mit POD zusätzlich zur Blepharitis präsentiert. Bei sechs Fällen war eine Unterscheidung zwischen Blepharitis und POD nicht möglich. Typische Veränderungen waren Alopezie/Hypotrichose (97%), Erythem (93%), Ödem des Augenlids (50%) und Krusten (39,2%). Eine allergische Hauterkrankung war die häufigste Ursache für eine Blepharitis, gefolgt von infektiösen/parasitären Erkrankungen (21,5%), Autoimmunerkrankungen (17,7%) und Neoplasie (4,9%). Vier Hunde konnten keiner dieser Krankheitsgruppen zugeordnet werden. Die Diagnose eines Parasitenbefalls war immer von einer POD begleitet. Eine reduzierte Tränenproduktion wurde in zehn von den 53 getesteten Hunden festgestellt (18,8%).Das Auftreten einer Blepharitis in Abwesenheit anderer Hautveränderungen ist selten. Die häufigste zugrundeliegende Ursache für eine Blepharitis ist eine allergische Dermatitis. Eine Messung der Tränenproduktion sollte in allen Fällen von Blepharitis empfohlen werden.背景: 睑缘炎在许多患有各种皮肤病的犬身上常见。 目的: 建立犬睑缘炎与眼周皮炎(POD)的定义,评估睑缘炎的临床发现和潜在皮肤病,并记录睑缘炎对犬眼泪量的影响。 动物: 一百二十只有睑缘炎临床症状和明确皮肤病诊断的私家犬,。 方法和材料: 对患有睑缘炎,与同时患有睑缘炎和POD犬的临床症状和潜在疾病进行前瞻性评估。 结果: 短头犬比其他品种更容易出现睑缘炎。仅有25只犬患有睑缘炎[三只犬(2.9%)没有,22只犬(21.5%)有眼周皮肤以外的皮肤病变]。 102例中有71例(69%)除睑缘炎外还有POD。有6例无法区别睑缘炎和POD。典型病变包括脱毛/ 少毛(97%)、红斑(93%)、眼睑水肿(50%)和结痂(39.2%)。过敏性皮肤病(52%)是睑缘炎最常见的根本原因,其次是传染病/寄生虫病(21.5%)、自身免疫性疾病(17.7%)和肿瘤(4.9%)。四只犬无任何疾病。寄生虫的诊断总是伴随着POD。在测试的53只犬中有10只检测到泪液量减少(18.8%)。 结论: 睑缘炎在没有其他皮肤病变时单独出现是罕见的。睑缘炎最常见的潜在原因是过敏性皮炎。在所有睑缘炎病例中都建议测泪液量。.背景: 眼瞼炎は、さまざまな皮膚疾患を持つ多くの犬において一般的な所見である。 目的: 本研究の目的は、犬の眼瞼炎および眼周囲炎(POD)の定義を確立し、眼瞼炎の臨床所見と根底にある皮膚疾患を評価し、犬の涙液産生に対する眼瞼炎の影響を詳細に記録することである。 被検動物: 眼瞼炎の臨床症状および皮膚疾患の確定診断を受けた飼育犬122頭。 材料と方法: 眼瞼炎およびPODを有する犬と比較した、眼瞼炎のみを有する犬の臨床的徴候と基礎疾患の前向き評価。 結果: 短頭種は、他の犬種よりも眼瞼炎を呈する可能性が有意に高かった。 25頭の犬が眼瞼炎のみを患っていた[眼周囲の皮膚を越えて皮膚病変を有する犬22頭(21.5%)と3頭有していない犬(2.9%)]。眼瞼炎に加えてPODを呈した犬は102頭中71頭(69%)であった。 6頭で眼瞼炎とPODの鑑別は不可能であった。典型的な病変には、脱毛症/貧毛症(97%)、紅斑(93%)、まぶた浮腫(50%)および痂皮(39.2%)が含まれていた。アレルギー性皮膚疾患(52%)が眼瞼炎の最も一般的な根本的原因であり、続いて感染症/寄生虫症(21.5%)、自己免疫疾患(17.7%)および腫瘍(4.9%)が続いた。 4頭の犬をこれらの病気のグループに割り当てることはできなかった。寄生虫症の診断は常にPODを伴っていた。試験した53頭の犬のうち10頭(18.8%)において涙液産生の減少が検出された。 結論: 他の皮膚病変がない場合に起こる眼瞼炎はまれである。眼瞼炎の最も一般的な根本的な原因は、アレルギー性皮膚炎である。すべて眼瞼炎の症例に涙の産生量を測定することを推奨すべきである。.Blefarite é um achado comum em muitos cães com diversas doenças de pele.Estabelecer uma definição para blefarite canina versus dermatite periocular (POD), avaliar os achados clínicos e as doenças de pele primárias de blefarite, e documentar os efeitos da blefarite na produção de lágrima.Cento e dois cães de proprietários com sinais clínicos de blefarite e com diagnóstico definitivo de doença de pele. MÉTODOS E MATERIAIS: Avaliação prospectiva dos sinais clínicos e doenças primárias em cães com somente com blefarite comparado a cães com blefarite e POD.Os cães braquicefálicos foram significativamente mais predispostos a apresentar blefarite que outras raças. Vinte e cinco cães tiveram somente blefarite [três cães (2,9%) sem e 22 cães (21,5%) com lesões cutâneas além da pele periocular]. Setenta e um de 102 (69%) apresentaram POD concomitantemente à blefarite. Em seis casos não foi possível a diferenciação entre blefarite e POD. As lesões típicas incluíram alopecia/hipotricose (97%), eritema (93%), edema palpebral (50%) e crostas (39,2%). As alergopatias (52%) foram as causas primárias mais comuns de blefarite, seguido por doenças infecciosas e parasitárias (21,5%), doenças autoimunes (17,7%) e neoplasia (4,9%). Quatro cães não puderam ser agrupados em nenhum destes grupos de doenças. Um diagnóstico de parasitismo foi acompanhado de POD. Redução da produção de lágrimas foi detectada em dez dos 53 cães testados (18,8%). CONCLUSÕES: A ocorrência de blefarite na ausência de outras lesões cutâneas é rara. As doenças primárias de blefarite mais comuns foram as alergopatias. A mensuração da produção de lágrimas deve ser recomendada em todos os casos de blefarite.

A 5-year old hunting dog was presented with reduced appetite, weight loss and polyuria/polydipsia. Hematology and clinical chemistry revealed anemia, leukocytosis, increased liver enzymes, hypoalbuminemia and hypercalcemia. The cytological, pathohistological and microbiological examination identified a disseminated infection with the saprophytic mould fungus Paecilomyces variotii in the biopsies of the spleen and a lymph node. Determination of vitamin D metabolites confirmed a calcitriol induced hypercalcemia. Ein 5-jähriger Jagdhund wurde wegen verminderter Futteraufnahme, Gewichtsverlust und Polyurie/Polydipsie vorgestellt. In der hämatologischen und klinisch-chemischen Blutuntersuchung wurde neben einer Anämie und Leukozytose eine Erhöhung der Leberenzyme, Hypoalbuminämie und Hyperkalzämie festgestellt. Durch zytologische, pathohistologische und mikrobiologische Untersuchungen von Biopsien aus Milz und Lymphknoten konnte eine systemische Schimmelpilzinfektion mit Paecilomyces variotii nachgewiesen werden. Die Bestimmung der Vitamin-D-Metabolite bestätigte das Vorliegen einer Hyperkalzämie infolge einer Erhöhung der Calcitriolkonzentration.

BACKGROUND: The THERAFLEX ultraviolet (UV) platelets (PLTs) pathogen reduction system for PLT concentrates (PCs) operates using ultraviolet C (UVC) light at a wavelength of 254 nm. UVC treatment can potentially alter proteins, which may affect drug tolerance in humans and influence the immunogenicity of blood products. This preclinical study in beagle dogs was designed to evaluate the safety pharmacology of UVC-irradiated PCs after intravenous administration and to determine whether they are capable of eliciting humoral responses to PLTs and plasma proteins. STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Six beagle dogs each were transfused once every other week for 10 weeks with UVC-irradiated or nonirradiated PCs. All PCs were autologous canine single-donor products prepared from whole blood. Safety pharmacology variables were regularly assessed. The impact of UVC irradiation on PLT and plasma proteomes was analyzed by one- and two-dimensional gel electrophoresis. Serum samples were tested for UVC-induced antibodies by Western blot and flow cytometry. RESULTS: Dogs transfused with UVC-irradiated PCs showed no signs of local or systemic intolerance. Few but significant changes in PLT protein integrity were observed after UVC irradiation. Even after repeated administration of UVC-irradiated PCs, no antibodies against UVC-exposed plasma or PLT proteins were detected. CONCLUSIONS: Repeated transfusions of autologous UVC-treated PCs were well tolerated in all dogs studied. UVC irradiation did not cause significant plasma or PLT protein modifications capable of inducing specific antibody responses in the dogs. High-resolution proteomics combined with antibody analysis introduces a comprehensive and sensitive method for screening of protein modifications and antibodies specific for pathogen reduction treatment.

Bluttransfusionen gehoren zum Standard bei der intensivmedizinischen Versorgung von Katzen und sind bei Einhaltung der Regeln der Transfusionsmedizin effizient und sicher.

Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA) is a life-threatening complication of diabetes mellitus (DM). The standard method of detection of ketone bodies is the dipstick method, which detects semiquantitatively acetoacetate, but not β-hydroxybutyrate (β-HB). The objectives of the current study were to assess the diagnostic utility of β-HB to diagnose diabetic ketosis (DK) and DKA in cats and to establish a cut-off value for the diagnosis of DKA. Sixty-two cats were included in the study. Eleven cats were healthy (group 1); in the remainder of cats (51), a diagnosis of DM was based on hyperglycemia, glucosuria, and increased fructosamine concentrations. Nineteen of 51 cats suffered from nonketotic diabetes mellitus (group 2). In 11 cats, plasma ketone bodies were detected with the dipstick method (diabetic ketosis, group 3). In 21 cats, plasma ketone bodies and metabolic acidosis were present (DKA, group 4). Plasma β-HB was measured in all cats by an enzymatic method (spectrophotometry). A cut-off value for the diagnosis of DKA was calculated based on the receiver operating characteristic curve. In healthy cats, the β-HB concentration ranged from 0 to 0.1 mmol/l; in cats of group 2, from 0 to 0.9 mmol/l (median: 0.1 mmol/l); in cats of group 3, from 0.6 to 6.8 mmol/l (median: 1.7 mmol/l); and in cats of group 4, from 3.8 to 12.2 mmol/l (median: 7.9 mmol/l). A cut-off value of 2.4 mmol/l revealed 100% sensitivity and 87% specificity to diagnose DKA. Beta-hydroxybutyrate is a useful parameter for the diagnosis of diabetic ketosis and DKA in cats.

The objective of this retrospective study was the evaluation of the administration of a haemoglobin (Hb)-based oxygen carrying solution (Oxyglobin®) to cats over a time period of 4 years. Indication, infusion volume/24 h, number of Oxyglobin® infusions/cat, Hb concentration pre- and post-infusion, adverse events, and patient outcome were evaluated. Forty-eight anaemic cats received 65 Oxyglobin® infusions. Prior to administration of Oxyglobin®, Hb concentration ranged from 2 to 7.8 g/dl (median 4.9 g/dl), the volume of Oxyglobin® administered was 4.4–25 ml/kg/24 h (median 9.8 ml/kg/24 h). An increase of Hb was noted after 41 of 49 infusion events. Severe side effects were noted in seven cats with cardiac disease, which developed pulmonary oedema (five), pleural effusion (three), and respiratory distress (one). They received 6.7–19.8 ml/kg/24 h (median 12.3 ml/kg/24 h) of Oxyglobin®. Four of these seven cats received whole blood transfusions on the same day; five cats died and one was euthanased. Overall 24-h survival rate was 77%. Administration of Oxyglobin® efficiently increased the Hb concentration. However, in cats suffering from cardiac disease, there is a high risk of life-threatening circulatory overload at the doses used in this study.

A 12 yr old female neutered Carthusian crossbreed cat was presented due to progressive neurological signs. Clinical signs included dehydration, stupor, and anisocoria. Laboratory examination revealed severe hypernatremia, azotemia, hyperglobulinemia, and an erythrocytosis. Clinical signs and hypernatremia suggested an intracranial process. Imaging studies revealed a loss of structure in the cerebrum, hypothalamus, and pituitary gland. Due to a poor prognosis, the cat was euthanatized. Histopathological examination revealed a subacute granulomatous and necrotizing panencephalitis with Toxoplasma-typical protozoa. The Toxoplasma-induced dysfunction of the hypothalamus and pituitary gland led to diabetes insipidus, which was, in combination with insufficient water intake, the most likely cause for the hypernatremia.

Anemia is a common hematological alteration in cats. The objective of this study was to evaluate the frequency of different types of anemia and the course of disease in cats with a hematocrit (hct)0.26 l/l. In a period of 18 months 194 cats were included and assigned to different anemia groups based on history, physical examination and laboratory parameters. Most cats had acute blood loss anemia (BA; 75/194; 38.7%). Frequent causes were trauma (39/75), hematuria (13/75) and hemostatic disorders (9/75). Anemia of inflammatory and neoplastic disease (AID) occurred in 22.2% (43/194) and hemolytic anemia (HA) in 18% (35/194). Half of those were presumptively immune-mediated (IHA). Four cats were diagnosed with hemotropic mycoplasma infection. Rare causes of anemia included anemia of renal disease (ARD; 18/194; 9.3%) and intramedullary non-regenerative anemia (INR; 13/194; 6.7%). The latter either had retroviral infection (6/13) or neoplasia (6/13). In cats with HA and INR anemia was often severe and very severe (Hct0.14 l/l) and in cats with AID and ARD usually mild (Hct 0.20-0.25 l/l). Cats with BA had significantly lower total protein concentrations than those with INR (p = 0,001), HA, AID and CNE (p0,001) and those with HA most often had hyperbilirubinemia (21/27). Blood transfusions were primarily given to cats with BA (37/75) and HA (19/35), especially those with IHA (13/17). 69% of the patients survived the first 14 days after the anemia was detected for the first time. Cats with HA had the highest survival rate.

Objectives Information regarding the clinical course of natural infection with feline haemotropic mycoplasmas (haemoplasmas) is limited. The objective of the study was to describe the clinical findings and course of disease in naturally infected cats with haemoplasmosis and anaemia. Methods A retrospective analysis was performed on patient data from cats presenting with anaemia and haemoplasma infection regarding signalment, clinical signs, laboratory data and course of infection. The diagnosis was confirmed by conventional haemoplasma PCR analysis. Results Haemoplasma infection was found in 22 anaemic (haematocrit 5–25% [median 17%]; reference interval 30–44%) cats (‘ Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum’, n = 12; Mycoplasma haemofelis, n = 3; ‘ Candidatus Mycoplasma turicensis’, n = 2; species not determined, n = 4; coinfection with all three species, n = 1) between 2005 and 2014. Thirteen of the cats had concurrent diseases. All cats underwent antibiotic treatment; 15 cats received blood products. Six cats were euthanased within 11 weeks owing to concurrent disease, persistent severe anaemia or financial constraints. Ten cats underwent follow-up for a period of 14–199 weeks (median 26 weeks). Haemoplasma PCR was negative in 5/7 cases after 3–23 weeks. PCR remained positive in two cases after 18 and 199 weeks, respectively. Reactivation of the haemoplasma infection occurred in two cats, once and three times, respectively, up to 177 weeks after initial presentation. Reactivation was suspected in two further cases. Owing to concurrent disease, four of the 10 follow-up cats were euthanased 14–180 weeks after initial presentation. Conclusion and relevance Infection with haemoplasma species is often chronic, can reactivate months later and is rarely a reason for euthanasia.

The purpose of this study was to describe the anemia of inflammatory disease (AID) in cats with naturally-occurring inflammatory diseases, such as abscesses (n = 12), pyothorax (n = 6), and fat necrosis (n = 3). Exclusion criteria were positive FeLV/FIV tests, neoplasia, nephro-, hepato- or endocrinopathies, and blood loss anemia. CBC, clinical biochemistry, measurements of serum erythropoietin, iron, total iron-binding capacity (TIBC), ferritin, acute phase proteins, erythrocytic osmotic fragility (OF), and Coombs' tests were performed. A decrease in hematocrit of 1-28% (median, 10%) occurred within 3-16 days (median, 8 days). The anemia was mild (n = 11), moderate (n = 8), or severe (n = 2). In most cases it was normocytic normochromic, non-regenerative (n = 18), or mildly regenerative (n = 3). Sixteen cats had leukocytosis and 5 mild hyperbilirubinemia. The Coombs' test results were negative for 8 cats and positive for 1 cat. OF was increased in 2 out of 14 cats. Hypoalbuminemia (n = 18) and hyperglobulinemia (n = 16) resulted in a lowered albumin/globulin-ratio in 19 cats. Iron and TIBC were low in 2/19 and 6 /19 cats, respectively. The ferritin concentrations were normal in 7 cats and increased in 12 cats. The acute phase proteins alpha1-acid-glycoprotein and haptoglobin were increased in 14/14 and 13/14 cats, respectively. Erythropoietin was normal (n = 4), mildly increased (n = 7) or severely increased (1). Two cats were euthanized due to their underlying disease, 3 cats needed blood transfusions. AID in cats is usually mild to moderate, non-regenerative, and normocytic normochromic. It can be clinically relevant causing severe and transfusion-dependent anemia. AID seems to be multifactorial with evidence of iron sequestration, decreased RBC survival, and insufficient erythropoietin production and bone marrow response. Specific and supportive therapy, including transfusions, can reverse these processes.

This survey assessed the feline transfusion practices at the University of Berlin from 1998 to 2001 in regard to patient population, indications, efficacy, and transfusion reactions. Blood was obtained from seven healthy in-house donors and 127 mostly indoor client-owned pet cats. Over a 3-year period 91 cats were transfused with blood type compatible blood. The blood was fresh (within 8 h of collection) or stored no longer than 15 days. Transfusions were required because of blood loss anaemia ( n=40), haemolytic anaemia ( n=13), ineffective erythropoiesis ( n=35), hypoproteinaemia ( n=2) or coagulopathy ( n=2). The anaemic cats had a pretransfusion haematocrit of 5–20% ( m [median]=13), and received one to six transfusions ( m=1). The survival rates of the anaemic cats at 1 and 10 days after transfusion were 84 and 64%, respectively. None of the deaths appeared to be related to transfusion reactions. The major crossmatch, undertaken before 117 transfusions, was incompatible for eight cats. All except for one had previously been transfused. Lysis of transfused cells in six cases resulted in a less than expected haematocrit rise and an increase in serum bilirubin. Transient mild transfusion reactions were only noted in two cats during the second or third transfusion. In conclusion, with proper donor selection and appropriate compatibility screening, blood transfusions are well tolerated, appear effective, and may increase chances of survival.

This prospective study evaluated a novel immunochromatographic (IC) blood typing test for the AB blood group system. Typing was conducted comparatively on ethylenediamine tetra-acetic acid-anticoagulated blood samples from 89 sick and 16 healthy cats with the IC test, as well as two tests as reference methods, a tube agglutination and a gel column test. The samples were between 0 and 10 days old (median 3 days) and were tested for haemolysis and agglutination; the packed cell volume ranged from 0.07 to 0.57 l/l (median 0.40 l/l). The reference methods agreed with each other in 100% of the test runs. Of the 85 samples tested as blood type A by the two reference methods, 80 were correctly identified by the IC test, four were misidentified as AB and one was rated inconclusive. All B samples were correctly typed. Two of the three AB samples were correctly identified by the IC test and one was rated inconclusive. The sample quality had no influence on test performance. Of 30 repeats, 28 were readable and showed agreement in 27 cases. The agreement of the IC test with the control methods was 96.1% for the 103 conclusive tests, and it showed high sensitivity and specificity for A and B antigen detection. It is suggested that AB results be reconfirmed with a laboratory method and that a ‘back-typing’ be performed with plasma from B samples to detect the presence of alloantibodies. Given its very good performance and ease of use, the IC test can be recommended for clinical settings.

The THERAFLEX ultraviolet (UV) platelets (PLTs) pathogen reduction system for PLT concentrates (PCs) operates using ultraviolet C (UVC) light at a wavelength of 254 nm. UVC treatment can potentially alter proteins, which may affect drug tolerance in humans and influence the immunogenicity of blood products. This preclinical study in beagle dogs was designed to evaluate the safety pharmacology of UVC-irradiated PCs after intravenous administration and to determine whether they are capable of eliciting humoral responses to PLTs and plasma proteins.Six beagle dogs each were transfused once every other week for 10 weeks with UVC-irradiated or nonirradiated PCs. All PCs were autologous canine single-donor products prepared from whole blood. Safety pharmacology variables were regularly assessed. The impact of UVC irradiation on PLT and plasma proteomes was analyzed by one- and two-dimensional gel electrophoresis. Serum samples were tested for UVC-induced antibodies by Western blot and flow cytometry.Dogs transfused with UVC-irradiated PCs showed no signs of local or systemic intolerance. Few but significant changes in PLT protein integrity were observed after UVC irradiation. Even after repeated administration of UVC-irradiated PCs, no antibodies against UVC-exposed plasma or PLT proteins were detected.Repeated transfusions of autologous UVC-treated PCs were well tolerated in all dogs studied. UVC irradiation did not cause significant plasma or PLT protein modifications capable of inducing specific antibody responses in the dogs. High-resolution proteomics combined with antibody analysis introduces a comprehensive and sensitive method for screening of protein modifications and antibodies specific for pathogen reduction treatment.

Background Urinary dipsticks are the most frequent method used for screening of ketones in animals, but this method has many drawbacks. In human medicine, portable meters that measure ketones in whole blood have largely replaced urinary dipsticks. Objective The aim of this prospective study was to validate a portable whole-blood ketone meter for use in cats. Methods Sixty-two cats (11 clinically healthy, 51 with diabetes mellitus) were included in the study. The concentration of β-hydroxybuyrate (β-HB) was measured in venous and capillary blood with a hand-held ketone meter (Precision Xceed; assay range 0–8 mmol/L) and compared with a spectrophotometric method. Precision, accuracy, and the effects of hematocrit and anticoagulants were evaluated. Results Between-run precision using low- and high-concentration control solutions was 8.1% and 2.6%, respectively; within-run coefficient of variation determined using 12 feline blood samples was 2.8%. In the 62 cats, β-HB concentrations measured with the portable ketone meter ranged from 0–7.4 mmol/L (median 0.9 mmol/L). When β-HB concentrations measured by the portable meter were 4.0 mmol/L were lower than those obtained by the reference method in 20 of 24 cats (83%). There was good correlation between capillary and venous measurements. Results were not affected by hematocrits from 0.17 to 0.50 L/L, but EDTA was not a suitable anticoagulant. Conclusion Measurement of β-HB concentration in peripheral or capillary blood by an easy-to-use portable ketone meter was suitable for detecting ketonemia in cats. Underestimation of β-HB concentration was observed at higher values, but results were sufficiently high to aid in diagnosing diabetic ketoacidosis.

Blood transfusions have become an important component of feline intensive medical and surgical care. Feline blood transfusions are now often given in first-opinion practice. This chapter reviews the practical aspects of transfusion medicine in cats and covers feline blood donors; blood groups and typing; cross-matching; anticoagulant-preservative solutions; blood donation; preparation and storage of blood products; availability and use of blood banks; indications for blood transfusions; administration of whole blood and blood components; transfusion reactions and management; autotransfusion and preoperative autologous blood donation.

In transfusion medicine, blood typing is an integral part of pretransfusion testing. The objective of the current study was the clinical evaluation of an automated canine cartridge dog erythrocyte antigen (DEA) 1.1 blood-typing method (QuickVet®/RapidVet®) and comparison of the results with a gel column–based method (ID-Gel Test Canine DEA 1.1). Ethylenediamine tetra-acetic acid–anticoagulated blood samples from 11 healthy and 85 sick dogs were available for typing. Before blood typing, all samples were tested for agglutination and hemolysis. All samples were tested once or multiple times with both methods according to the manufacturer’s guidelines. With the gel method, 53 dogs tested DEA 1.1 positive and 42 dogs DEA 1.1 negative; blood typing was not possible due to erythrocyte autoagglutination in 1 dog. With the cartridge test, 53 samples tested DEA 1.1 positive, 34 samples tested DEA 1.1 negative, and 6 results were inconclusive (3 samples were not included due to autoagglutination or severe hemolysis). Without taking the inconclusive samples into account, the agreement between both methods was 96.5%. The sensitivity and specificity for samples that were definitively typed by both methods were 100% and 91.9%, respectively. The cartridge test was suitable for in-clinic canine DEA 1.1 blood typing, although some discrepancies compared to the gel method existed. The cartridge test is software-directed, is easy to use, and does not require user interpretation, but preanalytical guidelines (sample evaluation for agglutination and hemolysis) have to be followed. For inconclusive results, an alternate blood-typing method should be performed.

Feline primary immune-mediated thrombocytopenia (pIMT) is a rare condition, and only a few cases have been described in veterinary literature. Five cats with severe thrombocytopenia most likely due to pIMT are described. A flow cytometry platelet-bound antibody test was positive in all cats; underlying diseases or triggering factors causing thrombocytopenia were not detected. Three cats were transfused with blood type-compatible fresh whole blood; one cat received Oxyglobin as well. All cats were treated with prednisolone; one cat received chlorambucil in addition. Four cats responded to treatment and were discharged from the hospital. One cat was euthanized due to dyspnea. Primary immune-mediated thrombocytopenia is rarely diagnosed in cats, but it is important as a differential diagnosis in cats presented with surface bleeding.

Clinical features were evaluated in seven adult cats (six males, one female) with haemorrhage and presumptive anticoagulant rodenticide intoxication. Haemorrhage appeared as thoracic haemorrhage, otic bleeding, haematoma, melena, haematochezia, and petechiation. The most common other presenting signs were lethargy, anorexia, and tachypnoea or dyspnoea. Six cats were anaemic, four cats were mildly thrombocytopenic (58 000–161 000/μl), and three had slightly decreased plasma protein or albumin values. The prothrombin time (30.3–>100 s, reference range: 16.5–27.5 s) and activated partial thromboplastin time values (32.6–>100 s; reference range: 14–25 s) were markedly prolonged in all cats. All cats received vitamin K1 subcutaneously or orally (3.7–5 mg/kg body weight initially) and depending on severity of signs five cats were transfused with fresh whole blood. Plasma coagulation times improved in all cats and returned to normal in 1–5 days. Rodenticide poisons represent an important but relatively rare cause of haemorrhage in cats and can be effectively treated.

Immune-mediated hemolytic anemia (IMHA) occurs less frequently in cats than in dogs. The value of the Coombs' test (CT) has been questioned, but detailed surveys of its use are lacking. The objective of this study was to describe 19 cats with primary IMHA (pIMHA) and to examine the diagnostic value of the direct CT. The CT was performed in 92 cats; it was negative in 5 healthy, in 9 sick nonanemic, and in 55 cats with different types of anemia. The CT was positive in 18 anemic cats (2 feline leukemia virus (FeLV) positive, 1 with cholangiohepatitis, 15 with no underlying disease). Moreover, agglutination persisted after saline washing in 5 anemic cats (1 lymphoma, 4 pIMHA). Inclusion criteria for pIMHA were a positive CT (15) or persistent agglutination (4), and the exclusion of other diseases. The age of the 19 cats ranged from 0.5 to 9 years (median, 2 years); male cats were overrepresented. The PCV on admission was 6-22% (median, 12%). The anemia was nonregenerative in 11 cats. Additional abnormal laboratory results were leukocytosis (2), lymphocytosis (6), hyperbilirubinemia (13), hyperglobulimemia (10), and increased liver enzyme activities (10). Initial treatment consisted of blood transfusions (10), crystalloids (11), prednisolone (19), antibiotics (19), and H2-blockers (11). Four of 17 cats were euthanized 9, 63, 240 and 2,160 days after initial presentation (mortality rate, 23.5%). Relapses were reported in 5 of 16 cases (31%). Thus, pIMHA appears to occur more frequently than recognized previously, with a more favorable prognosis in cats than in dogs. The CT was useful in identifying immune-mediated pathogenesis.