Epizootic vesicular disease in captive California sea lions

An epizootic of vesicular disease occurred in a group of semi-domesticated California sea lions (Zalophus californianus) during the months of April and May 1997. Ten castrated mature male sea lions, ages 12 to 19 yr, were housed in three adjacent open-ocean net enclosures in San Diego Bay (California, USA). Four animals (40%) developed oral and extremity vesicles, anorexia, and were reluctant to perform learned behaviors. One animal developed vesicles but maintained a normal appetite and behavior. The remaining animals showed no clinical signs of infection. Virus (designated FADDL 7005) was isolated from four of the five animals that developed vesicles. Serum antibody titers to FADDL 7005, a previously untyped calicivirus, were demonstrated in animals that showed any combination of clinical signs and in two animals that did not show any clinical signs. No virus was isolated from five fecal samples collected from four of the group animals. Clinical signs lasted 4 to 20 days in affected animals. All affected animals recovered from infection. An experimental swine was inoculated with FADDL 7005 and developed vesicular disease, which was transmitted to another experimental swine upon contact. It is proposed that FADDL 7005 is a new San Miguel sea lion virus.

Ecology of genus Porphyromonas in canine periodontal disease

Asaccharolytic pigmented Porphyromonas species, including P. endodontalis, P. gingivalis, P. circumdentaria and unclassified species, were isolated from the plaque of adult dogs, but not from any oral sites of puppies and adolescent dogs. With age-dependency, the proportion of Porphyromonas species in the flora of plaque increased. Isolation of the genus Porphyromonas was clearly associated with the progress of periodontol disease. We suggested that Porphyromonas is the exogenous organism and obligate pathogen for canine periodontal diseases.

Efficacy of a single dose of oral antibiotic given within two hours of birth in preventing watery mouth disease and illthrift in colostrum-deficient lambs

An antibiotic with a product licence limited to the treatment and control of infectious bacterial enteritis associated with Escherichia coli in piglets was tested for its ability to control watery mouth disease in neonatal lambs. Three groups of lambs were kept in conditions commonly encountered in intensive lambing systems, where high levels of environmental bacterial contamination may be expected. They were allocated at birth to: a control group (group 1) consisting of 18 colostrum-deprived lambs; group 2, consisting of 17 lambs given one feed of colostrum when they were two hours old; and group 3, consisting of 18 colostrum-deprived lambs given spectinomycin orally when they were two hours old. Nine group 1 lambs became diseased and were killed for humane reasons. Blood biochemical changes included hyperglycaemia followed by hypoglycaemia, lactacidaemia, hypoproteinaemia and metabolic acidosis, and postmortem examination of the diseased lambs showed signs consistent with endotoxaemia and a clinical diagnosis of watery mouth disease. Coliforms were isolated from the blood of all group 1 lambs and from half the lambs in groups 2 and 3, but endotoxaemia and watery mouth disease occurred only in group 1 lambs. The results for groups 2 and 3 showed that neither colostrum nor antibiotic at the rates and frequency used prevented bacteraemia, although consecutive samples were positive only on three occasions. Group 3 lambs consistently grew more rapidly than the surviving group 1 lambs and as rapidly as group 2 lambs. There was no evidence that male lambs were more prone to watery mouth disease than female lambs. The results indicated that the antibiotic spectinomycin did not induce endotoxaemia during low-grade bacteraemia and that a single oral dose given within two hours of birth protected colostrum-deprived lambs delivered into a contaminated indoor environment against watery mouth disease.

Dental diseases of puppies and kittens

Although there are certain differences warranting specific options therapeutically in young animals, many of the basic dental principles still apply. The key is examining the oral cavity of every patient at each visit and knowing how to recognize and manage any abnormalities encountered. Providing sound oral care from the time of a patient's first visit can figure significantly in a lifelong commitment to oral health that can have a positive impact on the patient's overall health.

Oral and dental conditions in adult African wild dog skulls: a preliminary report

Skulls of 29 adult African wild dogs (Lycaon pictus) originating from museum collections were examined for evidence of oral pathology. A wide variety of conditions similar to those seen in the domestic dog were detected. Although other reports suggest that captive African wild dogs suffer more extensively from dental disease than those in the wild, we conclude that these wild carnivores suffer from the same oral diseases as their domestic relatives, suggesting that a natural diet does not protect against these diseases. As the African wild dog is threatened by extinction, further investigation of the incidence and development of oral and dental disease in this species may be of value. Preventive measures could be instituted leading to improved health for those held in captivity.

Canine dental disease

The key to veterinary dentistry is recognition of veterinary dental disease. This article is intended as an introduction to oral disease. Starting with the teeth themselves, this overview will progress to the supporting tissues and remaining oral structures.

Diagnostic value of full-mouth radiography in dogs

OBJECTIVE

To determine the diagnostic value of full-mouth radiography in dogs.

SAMPLE POPULATION

Prospective series of 226 dogs referred for dental treatment without previous full-mouth radiographic views being available.

PROCEDURE

In a prospective nested case-control analysis of multiple outcomes in a hospital cohort of dogs presented for dental treatment, full-mouth radiographic views were obtained prior to oral examination and charting. After treatment, clinical and radiographic findings were compared, with reference to presenting problems, main clinical findings, additional information obtained from the radiographs, and unexpected radiographic findings. The importance of the radiographic findings in therapeutic decision-making was assessed.

RESULTS

The main clinical findings were radiographically confirmed in all dogs. Selected presenting problems and main clinical findings yielded significantly increased odds ratios for a variety of other conditions, either expected or unexpected. Radiographs of teeth without clinical lesions yielded incidental or clinically important findings in 41.7 and 27.8% of dogs, respectively, and were considered of no clinical value in 30.5%. Radiographs of teeth with clinical lesions merely confirmed the findings in 24.3% of dogs, yielded additional or clinically essential information in 50.0 and 22.6%, respectively, and were considered of no value in 3.1%. Older dogs derived more benefit from full-mouth radiography than did younger dogs. Incidental findings were more common in larger dogs.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Diagnostic yield of full-mouth radiography in new canine patients referred for dental treatment is high, and the routine use of such radiographs is justifiable.

Diagnostic value of full-mouth radiography in cats

OBJECTIVE

To determine the diagnostic value of full-mouth radiography in cats.

SAMPLE POPULATION

115 cats referred for dental treatment without a previous full-mouth radiographic series available.

PROCEDURE

In a prospective nested case-control analysis of multiple outcomes in a hospital cohort of cats referred for dental treatment, full-mouth radiography was done prior to oral examination and charting. After treatment, the clinical and radiographic findings were compared, with reference to presenting problems, main clinical findings, additional information obtained from radiography and unexpected radiographic findings. Importance of the radiographic findings in therapeutic decision making was assessed.

RESULTS

The main clinical findings were radiographically confirmed in all cats. Odontoclastic resorption lesions, missed on clinical examination, were diagnosed in 8.7% of cats. Analysis of selected presenting problems and main clinical findings yielded significantly increased odds ratios for a variety of other conditions, either expected or unexpected. Radiographs of teeth without clinical lesions yielded incidental or clinically important findings in 4.8 and 41.7% of cats, respectively, and were considered of no clinical value in 53.6%. Radiographs of teeth with clinical lesions merely confirmed the findings in 13.9% of cats, but yielded additional or clinically essential information in 53.9 and 32.2%, respectively.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

The diagnostic yield of full-mouth radiography in new feline patients referred for dental treatment is high, and routine use of full-mouth radiography is justifiable.

Clinical disease associated with simian agent 8 infection in the baboon

Simian agent 8 (SA8) is an alphaherpesvirus that was first reported as a spontaneous natural infection in a captive baboon colony in 1988. It was first isolated from an African vervet monkey in 1958 and was classified as a simian agent. Simian agent 8 was later isolated from a baboon rectal swab specimen in 1969 and from an oral lesion in a vervet monkey in 1972. Restriction endonuclease analysis was used to identify the virus as SA8. In a 1-year period, 70 baboons housed in two outside 6-acre breeding corrals developed lesions principally on the genitalia and oral cavity. The incidence was the same for males and females, with recurrence rate, severity of the lesions, and duration for the lesions to resolve being greater in the female baboons. Lesions involving the mouth, tongue, and lips were most commonly observed in the juvenile population. The lesions tended to start as small multiple papules or vesicles, which advanced to large pustular or ulcerative areas. Using an every-other-day treatment regimen consisting of Nolvasan cleaning and procaine penicillin G injections, it took an average of 14 to 21 days for the lesions to resolve totally. Thirty-seven percent of the baboons with herpetic lesions experienced another episode of SA8 infection, usually within 1 year of development of the primary lesion. Several complications have been documented to be associated with SA8 infections. Partial or total vaginal obstruction is most common, leading to impaired breeding performance and pyelonephritis. A vaginal corrective surgical procedure has been developed to allow these females to return to productive breeding status within the colony. Penile urethral obstruction, also causing pyelonephritis, was observed in the male baboons. A case of sciatic neuritis was reported in a baboon that presented with self mutilation of the foot; viral isolation revealed the etiologic agent to be SA8. Four female baboons with chronic SA8 infections went on to develop perineal neoplasms. This is an economically important disease entity in captive baboons because it causes severe morbidity, decreased reproductive performance, and ultimately death in 1% of the baboon colony each year. The baboon is a promising animal model in which to study genital herpes as it relates to disease in human beings.

Vesicular and ulcerative dermatopathy resembling superficial necrolytic dermatitis in captive black rhinoceroses (Diceros bicornis)

The histopathology, clinical presentation, and epidemiology of a cutaneous and oral mucosal disease affecting 40 black rhinoceroses (Diceros bicornis) at 21 zoological parks (50% of the captive US population) were investigated. Twenty-seven biopsies were examined from recent lesions, and clinical information was available from 127 episodes. The cutaneous lesions began as plaques that progressed to vesicles, bullae, or ulcers. Lesions waxed and waned in individual cases. Lesions were predominantly bilaterally symmetrical, affecting pressure points, coronary bands, tips of the ears and tail, and along the lateral body wall and dorsum. Oral lesions were first noticed as ulcers and were present on the lateral margins of the tongue, palate, and mucocutaneous junctions of the lips. All recent lesions had similar histopathologic findings of prominent acanthosis, hydropic degeneration of keratinocytes in the stratum spinosum, spongiosis, intraepithelial vesicles, and parakeratosis without dermal inflammation. Chronic lesions were ulcerated. No pathogens were identified by culture or electron microscopy. Most episodes coincided with stress events (transportation, sudden cold temperatures, intraspecific harassment, estrus, advanced pregnancy) or concurrent diseases (toxic hepatopathy, hemolytic anemia, respiratory or urinary tract infections). Affected rhinoceroses usually were lethargic and had weight loss. Affected rhinoceroses also had lower hematocrit, serum albumin, and cholesterol values than captive healthy or wild rhinoceroses. The clinical patterns and histopathologic findings are similar to those of superficial necrolytic dermatitis in dogs and necrolytic migratory erythema in humans. The high prevalence of this skin disease in captive black rhinoceroses under many circumstances suggests that their epidermis is acutely sensitive to any disruption of metabolic homeostasis. We propose that metabolic changes secondary to a stress response from maladaptation or nutritional inadequacy of captive diets may contribute to the development of this disease in rhinoceroses without hepatopathies.

Gastrointestinal disease and its management

Gastrointestinal (GI) diseases involving the alimentary tract and hepatobiliary system are common in geriatric dogs and cats. Inflammatory disorders predominate, but motility disturbances and degenerative lesions may also cause GI signs in affected animals. Treatment is directed at correction of the underlying cause and often requires tissue biopsy. The prognosis is good in many diseases with appropriate drug nutritional, and/or surgical therapy.

Influence of a superactivated charcoal on the toxic effects of aflatoxin or T-2 toxin in growing broilers

To evaluate the effectiveness of a superactivated charcoal (SAC) in alleviating mycotoxicosis, two experiments were conducted in which 432 male broiler chicks (216 per experiment) were fed diets containing 4 mg aflatoxin (AF) or 6 mg T-2 toxin/kg of diet, with and without 0.5% SAC, from 1 to 21 d of age. Feeding AF and T-2 toxin significantly decreased BW gain over the 21-d experimental period. Inclusion of SAC in the diet containing AF resulted in BW gains that were intermediate between gains of chicks fed AF and those of controls. No benefits were seen in BW gain when SAC + T-2 toxin was fed. Feeding AF increased relative weights of liver, spleen, and kidney; however, only liver weight in Experiment 1 was similar to controls when SAC was included. Of the blood parameters altered by AF (decreased cholesterol, inorganic phosphorus, total protein, and urea nitrogen, and increased mean corpuscular volume and hematocrit in Experiment 1; decreased albumin and total protein, and increased creatine kinase in Experiment 2) only urea nitrogen, hematocrit, and inorganic phosphorus (Experiment 1) and hematocrit (Experiment 2) were comparable to controls when SAC was included in the diet. Feeding T-2 toxin decreased serum cholesterol, total protein, urea nitrogen, and mean corpuscular volume; however, only cholesterol and mean corpuscular volume were improved with the addition of SAC (Experiment 1). Oral lesions were observed in birds fed T-2 toxin with no difference in severity when SAC was added in Experiment 1, however in Experiment 2, birds fed SAC + T-2 had a significantly lower lesion scores than those fed T-2 alone. Mortality was noted in both experiments but was not influenced by SAC treatment. These findings suggest that the addition of dietary SAC is marginally effective in alleviating some of the toxic affects associated with AF, but was of little benefit when T-2 toxin was fed to growing broiler chicks.

Effect of bilateral tenectomy of the tensor veli palatini muscle on soft palate function in horses

OBJECTIVE

To determine the effect of bilateral tenectomy of the tensor veli palatini muscle on soft palate and nasopharyngeal function in exercising horses.

ANIMALS

5 Standardbreds.

PROCEDURE

Treadmill videoendoscopy was performed on 5 Standardbreds exercising at 50, 75, and 100% of the speed that produced maximum heart rate; tracheal and pharyngeal pressures were measured before and after surgery. Tenectomy of the tensor veli palatini muscle was performed bilaterally on each horse while under general anesthesia, using a transoral approach.

RESULTS

Peak inspiratory tracheal pressures were significantly (P = 0.016) more negative and there was a trend (P = 0.06) for peak pharyngeal inspiratory pressure to be less negative following bilateral tenectomy of the tensor veli palatini muscle, compared with preoperative values. The rostral half of the soft palate was unstable and collapsed dorsally into the nasopharynx during inspiration, causing partial obstruction of the nasopharynx. The caudal free margin of the soft palate remained ventral to the epiglottis, and dorsal displacement of the soft palate did not occur in any horse.

CONCLUSIONS

Bilateral tenectomy of the tensor veli palatini muscle did not cause dorsal displacement of the soft palate in horses while exercising at maximum heart rate, but resulted in collapse of the nasopharynx during inspiration.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Results of our study indicate that the tensor veli palatini muscle functions to support and dilate the nasopharynx during intense inspiratory efforts in horses by tensing the palatine aponeurosis.

Prosthodontic appliance for repair of an oronasal fistula in a cat

A 4.5-month-old Himalayan cat was evaluated because of a cleft secondary palate. Multiple surgical procedures failed to provide soft-tissue coverage of the defect. A 3-cm silastic nasal septal button was trimmed and placed in the oronasal fistula. This prosthodontic appliance provided obturation of the defect without the need for removal or cleaning. Food accumulation between the appliance and oral mucosa was minimal, avoiding the need for appliance manipulation. The owner reported clinical signs related to oronasal fistula or appliance complications were not evident 12 months after placement.

Diagnosis and clinical course of canine oral papillomavirus infection

A six-month-old intact male rottweiler presented with papillomatous growths protruding from the oral mucous membranes. A tentative diagnosis of canine oral papillomavirus (COPV) infection was made based on the gross appearance of the numerous lesions and the young age of the patient. Two warts from the oral mucosa were removed surgically for further diagnostic investigations. The viral aetiology of the diseases was confirmed by histopathological and electron microscopic findings, and by the identification of specific COPV DNA is removed oral papillomatous tissue. The patient was followed clinically and complete regression of the oral lesions occurred after four weeks. Neither the route of transmission nor the source of infection was found. Immunodeficiency as a contributing aetiological factor to the development of COPV-induced lesions as discussed.

Copper sulfate toxicosis in commercial laying hens

A flock of 51-week-old leghorn hens experienced a 16% drop in egg production in a single week. The layer ration contained 1477 ppm copper from the addition of copper sulfate. Severe oral ulcers were present in the pharynx. Oral ulcers, reduced feed intake, and a drop in egg production occurred when a ration containing 1437 ppm copper was evaluated experimentally.

[Veterinary dentistry (11). Feline gingivitis-stomatitis-pharyngitis complex. Chronic/recurrent stomatitis in cats]

This is the fourth article in a series on veterinary dentistry in cats. This article describes the clinical signs, possible investigations, and differential diagnosis of the gingivitis-stomatitis pharyngitis complex (GSP complex), a complex and frequently occurring disease. Strategies for the treatment of feline chronic stomatitis complex, which is frequently idiopathic, are presented.

Erosive and ulcerative skin disease

Many causes exist for ulcerative disease of the skin and mucous membranes of cats. History, physical examination, cytology, skin biopsy, a hemogram, serum biochemical evaluation, and FeLV and feline immunodeficiency virus testing are a standard diagnostic protocol for such cases. Therapy is dependent on the underlying cause. Symptomatic therapy consisting of cleansing soaks (chlorhexidine) and systemic antibiotics (trimethoprim-sulfadiazine or amoxicillin-clavulanic acid) may be helpful to control secondary bacterial infections. If ulceration is widespread, serum leakage may result in a decreased total protein and more systemic signs. When oral ulcers are present, food and water consumption may be affected. Enteral nutrition may be helpful to sustain the cat during the diagnostic workup or until results of treatment are evident.

Oropharyngeal granulomas and tracheal cartilage degeneration in Fischer-344 rats

The development of tracheal cartilage degeneration and inflammation of the seromucinous glands of the oropharynx may be a factor causing early mortalities in long-term studies with Fischer-344 (F-344) rats. The presence of these lesions was investigated in groups of male and female F-344 rats killed at 6, 19, and 32 wk of age. Half of the rats killed at 19 and 32 wk of age were sham treated with water (pH 10) by daily oral gavage for a duration of 13 or 26 wk prior to autopsy in order to detect any influence on the laryngotracheal cavity due to dosing technique. A clear age-associated increase in severity and incidence of chondroid degeneration of the tracheal and laryngeal cartilage was revealed, with an onset as early as 6 wk of age. After 19 wk, a high frequency of oropharyngeal granuloma formation was found. No relationship of the lesions to the gavage technique was apparent. The F-344 rat strain may possess a predisposition for inflammatory and degenerative changes in the oropharyngeal and laryngotracheal cavity, changes that can lead to increased and unexpected mortality rates in nonclinical safety studies (7).

Influence of fumonisin B1, present in Fusarium moniliforme culture material, and T-2 toxin on turkey poults

Diets containing 300 mg fumonisin B1 (FB1)/kg of feed and 5 mg T-2 toxin/kg of feed singly or in combination were fed to female turkey poults (Nicholas Large White) from day of hatch to 21 d of age. When compared with controls, 21-d body weight gains were reduced 21% by FB1, 26% by T-2, and 47% by the combination. the efficiency of feed utilization was adversely affected by FB1 and the combination of FB1 and T-2. Relative weights (grams/100 g BW) of the liver and gizzard were increased in poults fed the FB1 and the combination diets; whereas, the relative weight of the pancreas was increased in all treated groups. All poults were scored for oral lesions using a scale of 1 to 4 (1 = no visible lesions, 4 = severe lesions). Oral lesions were present in all poults fed the T-2 diet (average score of 3.29) or the combination diet (average score of 3.54). Serum concentration of cholesterol was decreased and lactate dehydrogenase activity was increased in poults fed the FB1 and combination diets. The activity of aspartate aminotransferase and the values for red blood cells, hemoglobin, and hematocrit were increased only in poults fed the combination diet. Inorganic phosphorus concentration was decreased only in poults fed the combination diet. The increased toxicity in poults fed the combination diet for most variables can best be described as additive, although some variables not altered by FB1 or T-2 singly were significantly affected by the combination, indicating that the combination may pose a potentially greater problem to the turkey industry than either of the mycotoxins individually.

The short-term effect of low concentrations of dietary aflatoxin and T-2 toxin on mallard ducklings

Two 9-day trials to study effects of dietary mycotoxins were conducted using 6-week-old mallards. Each trial involved three groups of six ducks each, three males and three females per group. One group was fed no myocotoxin (control), one was fed aflatoxin, and the third was fed T-2 toxin. Dietary aflatoxin was 12 ppb in trial 1 and 33 ppb in trial 2; dietary T-2 toxin was 2 ppm in both trials. There were no gross or microscopic lesions in controls or in ducks fed aflatoxin, nor did these groups differ significantly in final body weight or in weights of spleen or bursa of Fabricius. Ducks exposed to T-2 toxin had erosions and/or ulcerations in the oral cavity and esophagus; further, these ducks exhibited a decrease in weights of body, thymus, spleen, and bursa of Fabricius. The only microscopic change seen in lymphoid organs of ducks exposed to T-2 toxin was a moderate decrease of thymic cortical lymphocytes.

Involvement of canine oral papillomavirus in generalized oral and cutaneous verrucosis in a Chinese Shar Pei dog

Severe papillomatosis developed in the oral cavity and spread throughout the haired skin of the trunk and limbs of an 8-month-old female Chinese Shar Pei dog. The dog had received corticosteroids prior to referral, which was associated with the onset of demodecosis and papillomatosis. Papillomavirus structural antigens were detected in biopsies by immunohistochemistry using a panel of monoclonal and polyclonal antibodies. An 8.2-kilobase papillomavirus-specific DNA molecule was detected in the cutaneous lesions by high stringency Southern blot hybridization using a cloned canine oral papillomavirus DNA probe. Restriction enzyme analysis revealed that the virus in the cutaneous lesions was identical to the canine oral papillomavirus. Discontinuation of the steroids combined with the use of a mitocide, antibiotics, and an autogenous vaccine resolved the demodecosis and papillomatosis. This case report suggests that corticosteroid-induced immunosuppression can expand the tissue tropism of papillomaviruses.

Oral complications of cancer therapy and their management

As the standards and client expectations for care of small animal patients with cancer increase, so does our awareness and understanding of the oral manifestations of complications associated with the treatment of these malignancies. This article has given an overview of some of the more common problems that can be anticipated when treating cancers, particularly those involving the head, neck, and oral cavity, and provided guidelines for the management of these problems when they do develop. In the future, as our management of these diseases becomes even more common, I would expect the veterinary dentist to play a vital role in the pretreatment evaluation, planning, and management of these animal patients.

Multiple oral procedures performed on a dog with distemper myoclonus

A 3-year-old male mixed-breed dog was treated for an oral defect along the rostral portion of the hard palate and an oronasal fistula secondary to a severe mandibular brachygnathism and persistent canine distemper virus associated myoclonus. This report describes the treatment using a bilateral radical premaxillectomy, oronasal fistula repair, and pulpotomy.

Investigation of vaccine reactions and breakdowns after feline calicivirus vaccination

The clinical and epidemiological features of feline calicivirus associated vaccine reactions and breakdowns were investigated. Twenty per cent of 123 vaccine reactions were associated with acute oral/respiratory disease alone, and 80 per cent were associated with lameness either alone or in association with other clinical signs. Feline calicivirus was isolated from oropharyngeal swabs from 69 per cent of the vaccine reaction cases. Twenty-four of 31 vaccine breakdowns were associated with acute oral/respiratory disease and only seven with lameness; the virus was isolated from 28 of the 31 breakdowns. Some of the viruses isolated from the vaccine reactions were compared with the appropriate vaccine virus in virus neutralisation tests; the majority appeared to be different from the vaccine virus and were presumably field viruses. However, some appeared more similar to the vaccine virus and the majority of these were associated with lameness after the first vaccination.

Comparison of adverse effects of phenylbutazone, flunixin meglumine, and ketoprofen in horses

The relative toxicity of phenylbutazone, flunixin meglumine, and ketoprofen was studied in healthy adult horses. Sixteen horses were randomly assigned to receive 10 ml of physiologic saline solution, or ketoprofen (2.2 mg/kg of body weight), flunixin meglumine (1.1 mg/kg), or phenylbutazone (4.4 mg/kg) IV, every 8 hours, for 12 days. Results of CBC, serum biochemical analyses, and fecal occult blood tests were monitored. On day 13, all horses were euthanatized and complete necropsy examinations were performed. Mean CBC values remained within normal limits for all groups. Phenylbutazone-treated horses had a significant (P < 0.05) decrease in serum total protein and albumin concentrations. Mean values of all other serum biochemical assays were not different from those of the saline-treated group. Results of all fecal occult blood tests were negative. At necropsy, the glandular portion of the stomach was the area of the gastrointestinal tract most severely affected by phenylbutazone, flunixin meglumine, and ketoprofen. In the phenylbutazone-treated group, but not in the other groups, edema of the small intestine and erosions and ulcers of the large colon were observed. None of the horses treated with saline solution had lesions in the glandular portion of the stomach or in the intestine. Four horses (1/5 and 3/3 in the flunixin- and phenylbutazone-treated groups, respectively) developed renal crest necrosis. Horses in the saline- and ketoprofen-treated groups did not develop renal lesions.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

[Digestive disorders in rabbits and guinea pigs]

Numerous digestive tract diseases in pet rabbits and guinea pigs result from both an inherent physiological predisposition and from poor feeding and husbandry. A large proportion of digestive disturbances in rabbits and guinea pigs are secondary to changes in the oral cavity caused by inadequate teeth wear. The required regular trimming of the cheek teeth using a modified spatula and hollow pair of pincers is described and illustrated. The symptoms, diagnosis, prognosis and treatment of a selection of digestive disorders, as commonly encountered in small animal practice, are presented. The difficulties of using antibiotics in view of the gram positive intestinal flora and possible dysbacteria, dysentery and enterotoxaemia are considered. Finally, advice on feeding and on the rearing of orphan neonates is given.

Epiglottic augmentation by use of polytetrafluoroethylene to correct dorsal displacement of the soft palate in a standardbred horse

A 2-year-old 400-kg Standardbred colt with a history of exercise intolerance was determined to have dorsal displacement of the soft palate (DDSP). Standing endoscopy revealed a soft, flaccid, and hypoplastic epiglottis and arytenoid cartilages that moved symmetrically and abducted fully. Lateral laryngeal radiography was used to calculate a corrected thyroepiglottic length of 6.48 cm. Videoendoscopy during exercise on a high-speed treadmill at standardized treadmill speeds was performed weekly for 3 consecutive weeks. The soft palate dorsally displaced at each examination. A sternohyoideus/sternothyroideus myectomy was followed by 2 weeks of stall rest and 2 weeks of treadmill training. Because endoscopy during exercise at standardized treadmill speeds caused the horse to dorsally displace the soft palate once a week for 3 weeks after the myectomy, this surgery was deemed ineffective in this horse. Epiglottic augmentation was performed by injecting 7 ml of polytetrafluoroethylene into the ventral submucosal space of the epiglottis. After 21 days of stall rest and 5 weeks of pasture rest, the horse was placed on a 2-month treadmill conditioning program. Using endoscopy at standardized treadmill speeds, exercise efforts to encourage DDSP were unsuccessful, which suggested that epiglottic augmentation by use of polytetrafluoroethylene was an effective surgical treatment to correct dorsal displacement of the soft palate in this horse. It is believed that polytetrafluoroethylene increases the rigidity of the epiglottis, allowing it to maintain the ventral position of the soft palate.

Oral-dental disease in cats. A feline practitioner's perspective

The impact and relevance of dentistry in a general feline practice is detailed. Hospital policy and protocol are described for client education, preanesthetic evaluation, dental procedures, and recall programs. A discussion of commonly observed feline dental problems is included.

Chromosomal DNA probes for the identification of asaccharolytic anaerobic pigmented bacterial rods from the oral cavity of cats

A dot-blot hybridisation assay using isolated high molecular weight DNA as whole chromosomal probes of the cat pigmented asaccharolytic Bacteroides/Porphyromonas species was used against both purified high molecular weight DNA and DNA released on membranes from whole cells for the identification of B. salivosus and for its differentiation from the other anaerobic species isolated from normal and diseased mouths of cats and horses. 32P-labelled probes were compared with digoxigenin (DIG)-labelled probes (Boehringer-Mannheim). The whole chromosomal probes were specific--differentiating B. salivosus from a variety of species (including members of the genera Bacteroides, Fusobacterium, Eubacterium, and Prevotella) found in normal and abnormal mouths of cats and horses. Likewise, asaccharolytic black pigmented Group 2 strains were distinguishable from all strains tested. However, cat strains of P. gingivalis which show 68-76% DNA-DNA homology with human strain P. gingivalis ATCC 33277T, were not distinguishable from each other using either 32P-labelled or DIG-labelled probes. The minimum amount of pure Bacteroides DNA which could be detected by the 32P-labelled probe was 100-300 pg, while the amount of pure DNA detected by the DIG system was 1-3 mg after room temperature colour development for 1 h and 100-300 pg after 6 h colour development.

Activation of B virus (Herpesvirus simiae) in chronically immunosuppressed cynomolgus monkeys

Three of 14 cynomolgus monkeys given the highest dose of an immunosuppressive drug in a 6-month toxicology study developed B virus (Herpesvirus simiae) oral lesions after 3 months of dosing. This necessitated early removal of all high-dose monkeys from the study due to concerns related to B virus. The incidence and severity of parasitic (Oesphagostomum sp.) lesions of the large intestine were also increased in high-dose animals. Both B virus and Oesophagostomum are enzootic in macaques, and the lesions caused by them were considered secondary to chronic immunosuppression caused by the highest dose of the test compound. Evidence of immunosuppression included decreased lymphocyte counts (B-cells; CD2 and CD8 T-cells), histopathologic evidence of lymphoid suppression, and serum-induced inhibition of lymphocyte mitogen responses. Pathogenesis of the B virus was apparently associated with both activation of latent virus as well as transmission of active virus. Approaches for virologic monitoring of primates and for ensuring optimal safety for primate handlers are discussed.

The ancient origins of oral pathology

Belief in a golden age has provided mankind with solace in times of despair and with élan during the expansive periods of history. Dreamers imagine the golden age in the remote past, in paradise lost, free from toil and grief. Optimists put their faith in the future and believe that mankind, Prometheus-like, will master the arts of life through power and knowledge. Thus, the golden age means different things to different men, but the very belief in its existence implies the conviction that perfect health and happiness are birthrights of men. Yet, in reality, complete freedom from disease and from struggle is almost incompatible with the process of living.

[The application of tiletamine/zolazepam (Zoletil) anesthesia in dental treatments in dogs]

Tiletamine/zolazepam anaesthesia was used in twelve dogs for veterinary dentistry. The following doses were administered: - 7.5 mg/kg intravenously for forty minute-long procedures. - 5.0 mg/kg intravenously for twenty minute-long procedures. As premedication 0.1 mg/kg of atropine was subcutaneously injected. This combination is marked by its muscle-relaxing properties and the preservation of the laryngeal reflex.

Mouth lesions in broiler chickens caused by scirpenol mycotoxins

Dietary scirpentriol (STO), triacetoxyscirpenol (TAS), monoacetoxyscirpenol (MAS), and diacetoxyscirpenol (DAS), mycotoxins produced by Fusarium species, were compared for their ability to cause mouth lesions when graded dietary levels (0, 1, 2, 4, and 8 micrograms STO or TAS/g; 0, .5, 1, 2, and 4 micrograms MAS or DAS/g) were fed to male broiler chickens for 21 days after hatching. The mouth lesions provoked by each scirpenol were dose-related. The minimum effective doses (MED) were 4, 2, 1, and .5 micrograms/g for TAS, STO, DAS, and MAS, respectively, whether the number of affected birds or the number of affected mouth parts (angles, upper beak, lower beak, and tongue) was the measured response. Lesion sites in the mouth varied with the toxin. The rank orders from greatest to least affected sites were angles, upper beak, lower beak, and tongue for TAS and STO, upper beak, lower beak, angles, and tongue for MAS, and upper beak, lower beak, tongue, and angles for DAS. Mouth lesions were clearly visible with each toxin after feeding for 1 wk and the numbers of affected mouth parts almost tripled after 2 wk exposure. During Week 3 of exposure, only the increase caused by MAS was significant (P less than .05). The MED for growth inhibition were 2, 2, 2, and 8 micrograms/g for STO, MAS, DAS, and TAS, respectively. Thus, mouth lesions were of equal or greater sensitivity than growth inhibition as an indicator of scirpenol toxicity. It would appear that the discovery of mouth lesions in birds justifies a mold and mycotoxin control program.

Induction of oral lesions in broiler chicks by supplementing the diet with copper

Copper sulfate was added to the diet of broiler chickens from 1 day to 3 weeks of age at the rate of 0.05% to 0.20% in order to evaluate its influence on the incidence of oral lesions. Both the incidence and severity of oral lesions showed a significant linear increase as the concentration of copper sulfate increased. Adding a level of sulfate equivalent to that produced by the highest level of copper sulfate failed to induce oral lesions. The severity of gizzard erosion also increased as the concentration of copper increased. Dietary copper sulfate supplementation should be considered a possible cause of oral lesions seen during the necropsy of avian species.

Soft palate hypoplasia in a horse

Several imaging techniques were used to diagnose hypoplasia of the soft palate in a horse. The absence of the caudal soft palate, hypertrophied lymphoid tissue and the formation of a pseudouvula were observed endoscopically. Plain and contrast radiography were used to demonstrate a soft palate remnant and to identify structures rostral to the epiglottis. Retrograde endoscopy of the pharynx via a tracheotomy incision is described.

[Veterinary dentistry in dogs and cats; a survey among veterinarians]

To gain an insight into the prevalence of dental disease in dogs and cats and forms of dental treatment, a postal survey was conducted among veterinarians in the Netherlands. Seventy per cent of the veterinarians replied that they made routine oral examinations of dogs and cats. Of dental diseases observed in dogs and cats periodontal diseases were stated to be the most common dental problem. Dental treatments, such as removal of calculus and extractions, were performed by nearly all veterinarians. Fifty per cent of the veterinarians asked for assistance of a dentist when a dental treatment could not be carried out by themselves. More education in veterinary dentistry to veterinary students and veterinarians is required.

A papillomavirus related to HPV type 13 in oral focal epithelial hyperplasia in the pygmy chimpanzee

An epizootic of focal epithelial hyperplasia (FEH) or Morbus Heck in a pygmy chimpanzee (Pan paniscus) colony is described. Papovavirus-like particles were observed in the nuclei of epithelial cells. Analysis of the DNA of the lesions revealed an episomal papillomavirus-specific band with a molecular size of approximately 8,000 bp. In situ hybridization under high stringency conditions showed cross-hybridization between the chimpanzee papillomavirus DNA and human papillomavirus (HPV) type 13. The latter virus is uniquely associated with oral disease in man. This is the first demonstration of the association of a HPV 13-related pygmy chimpanzee papillomavirus (PCPV) and oral epithelial hyperplasia in a nonhuman primate.

Chronic oral infections of cats and their relationship to persistent oral carriage of feline calici-, immunodeficiency, or leukemia viruses

Two hundred and twenty-six cats from the Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital (VMTH), a cat shelter, and a purebred cattery were tested for chronic feline calicivirus (FCV), feline leukemia virus (FeLV) and feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) infections. Chronic oral carriage of FCV was present in about one-fifth of the cats in each of the groups. FIV infection was not present in the purebred cattery, was moderately prevalent (8%) in the pet population of cats examined at the VMTH for various complaints and was rampant in the cat shelter (21%). Unexpectedly high FeLV infection rates were found in the hospital cat population (28%) and in the purebred cattery (36%), but not in the cat shelter (1.4%). FCV and FeLV infections tended to occur early in life, whereas FIV infections tended to occur in older animals. From 43 to 100% of the cats in these environments had oral cavity disease ranging from mild gingivitis (23-46%), proliferative gingivitis (18-20%), periodontitis (3-32%) and periodontitis with involvement of extra-gingival tissues (7-27%). Cats infected solely with FCV did not have a greater likelihood of oral lesions, or more severe oral disease, than cats that were totally virus free. This was also true for cats infected solely with FeLV, or for cats dually infected with FeLV and FCV. Cats infected solely with FIV appeared to have a greater prevalence of oral cavity infections and their oral cavity disease tended to be more severe than cats without FIV infection. FIV-infected cats that were coinfected with either FCV, or with FCV and FeLV, had the highest prevalence of oral cavity infections and the most severe oral lesions.

Dental and oral disease in Lagomorphs

The dental diseases of rabbits are unique because of their dental anatomy and physiology. Common problems of Lagomorph dentition are covered in this article including malocclusions, periodontal disease, and their treatment. The anatomy of Lagomorph dentition is reviewed and anesthesia protocols are included.

Problems and complications associated with maxillectomy, mandibulectomy, and oronasal fistula repair

Many oral tumors can be effectively treated by partial maxillectomy or mandibulectomy. These techniques involve excision of the tumor as well as the underlying bone. These procedures are described here and emphasis placed on the management of potential complications. Useful techniques for repairing oronasal fistulas are also described.

Split palatal U-flap: a new technique for repair of caudal hard palate defects

Oronasal fistulas located in the central portion of the hard palate can be surgically repaired using a transposition flap of hard palate mucoperiosteum from tissue adjacent to the defect. The purpose of this report is to describe a new technique, the split palatal U-flap, for the surgical repair of large caudal hard palate defects in the dog and cat. A description of this new technique and case reports of a dog and a cat in which this technique was utilized to repair caudal hard palate defects are included.

Oral associated bacterial infection in horses: studies on the normal anaerobic flora from the pharyngeal tonsillar surface and its association with lower respiratory tract and paraoral infections

Two hundred and seventy bacterial isolates were obtained from the pharyngeal tonsillar surface of 12 normal horses and 98 obligatory anaerobic bacteria were characterised. Of these, 57 isolates belonging to 7 genera (Peptostreptococcus (1); Eubacterium (9); Clostridium (6); Veillonella (6); Megasphera (1); Bacteroides (28); Fusobacterium (6)) were identified, and 16 of these were identified to species level (P. anaerobius (1); E. fossor (9); C. villosum (1); B. fragilis (1); B. tectum (2); B. heparinolyticus (2)). Three hundred and twenty isolates were obtained from 23 samples from horses with lower respiratory tract (LRT) or paraoral (PO) bacterial infections. Of the 143 bacteria selected for detailed characterisation, obligate anaerobes accounted for 100 isolates, facultative anaerobes for 42 isolates and obligate aerobes for one isolate. Phenotypic characterisation separated 99 of the isolates into 14 genera. Among the obligately anaerobic species, Gram-positive cocci including P. anaerobius comprised 25% of isolates, E. fossor 11% and other Gram-positive rods (excluding Clostridium sp.) 18% of isolates. The Gram-negative rods comprised B. fragilis 5%, B. heparinolyticus 5%, asaccharolytic pigmented Bacteroides 3% and other Bacteroides 13%, while a so-far unnamed species of Fusobacterium (7%), and Gram-negative corroding rods (3%) were isolated. Among the facultatively anaerobic isolates, S. equi subsp. zooepidemicus accounted for 31% of isolates, followed by Pasteurella spp. 19%, Escherichia coli 17%, Actinomyces spp. 9%, Streptococcus spp. 9%. Incidental facultative isolates were Enterococcus spp. 2%, Enterobacter cloaceae 2%, Actinobacillus spp. 2% and Gram-negative corroding rods 5%. On the basis of the similarities (as determined by DNA hybridization data and/or phenotypic characteristics) of some of the bacterial species (e.g. E. fossor and B. heparinolyticus) isolated from both the normal pharyngeal tonsillar surfaces and LRT and PO diseases of horses, it is considered that the most likely source of bacteria involved in these disease processes is flora from the oral cavity.