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Johns JL, Baumgartner TR, Sanchez CR, Dolan BP. Phagocytic Function and Flow Cytometric Phenotype of Asian Elephant Monocytes. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:2297. [PMID: 39199831 PMCID: PMC11350674 DOI: 10.3390/ani14162297] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2024] [Revised: 07/22/2024] [Accepted: 07/31/2024] [Indexed: 09/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Optimal veterinary care of managed elephant populations is vital due to the continued decline of wild populations. Appropriate health monitoring and accurate disease diagnosis include hematologic evaluation. Elephant hematology is distinctive in that elephants have high percentages of monocytes in health. Elephant monocytes also have unusual morphology, a feature shared with manatees and rock hyraxes. Manual white blood cell counting is used for elephant hematology, as analyzers are generally inaccurate. The aims of this study were to evaluate basic cell isolation and functional testing protocols for use in elephant monocyte research, and to test several available antibodies via flow cytometry for use in elephant monocyte identification. Peripheral blood samples from five Asian elephants (Elephas maximus) were used. Methods for monocyte isolation and evaluation of phagocytic function were established. Putative lymphocyte and monocyte populations were identified using a scatter on flow cytometry. Antibodies against CD11b, CD11c, CD14, and ionized calcium-binding adapter molecule 1 (IBA1) were tested, with IBA1 showing the highest apparent diagnostic utility in labeling monocytes. Combined flow cytometric scatter and IBA1 positivity appear to identify Asian elephant monocytes. These data provide a methodologic basis for further investigation into elephant monocyte function and immune response to infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer L. Johns
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Carlson College of Veterinary Medicine, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331, USA; (T.R.B.); (B.P.D.)
| | - Trinity R. Baumgartner
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Carlson College of Veterinary Medicine, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331, USA; (T.R.B.); (B.P.D.)
| | | | - Brian P. Dolan
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Carlson College of Veterinary Medicine, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331, USA; (T.R.B.); (B.P.D.)
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2
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Boonprasert K, Srivorakul S, Monchaivanakit N, Langkaphin W, Sripiboon S, Janyamethakul T, Srisa-ad C, Guntawang T, Brown JL, Thitaram C, Pringproa K. Characterizations of Elephant Endotheliotropic Herpesvirus Type 1A and 4 Co-Infections in Asian Elephant ( Elephas maximus) Calves. Vet Sci 2024; 11:147. [PMID: 38668415 PMCID: PMC11055005 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci11040147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2024] [Revised: 03/16/2024] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Three cases of double infection with elephant endotheliotropic herpesvirus (EEHV) types 1A and 4 in captive Asian elephants are presented. The first calf was a 4-year-old female that showed initial signs of lethargy and depression. The second calf was a 6-year-old female that displayed signs of depression and diarrhea and died within 48 h of the start of supportive treatment. The third was a 2-year-old male that died suddenly while living with the herd. Necropsies were performed in the first and second elephants, while only a tongue sample was collected from the third calf. EEHV infection was confirmed via quantitative PCR (qPCR) and gene sequencing, revealing double subtypes of EEHV1A and -4 infections. This study describes the hematological and pathological characteristics within the host following double EEHV infection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khajohnpat Boonprasert
- Elephant Hospital, National Elephant Institute, Forest Industry Organization, Lampang 52190, Thailand
- Center of Elephant and Wildlife Health, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50100, Thailand
| | - Saralee Srivorakul
- Center of Veterinary Diagnostic and Technology Transfer, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50100, Thailand
| | - Natcha Monchaivanakit
- Elephant Hospital, National Elephant Institute, Forest Industry Organization, Lampang 52190, Thailand
| | - Warangkhana Langkaphin
- Elephant Hospital, National Elephant Institute, Forest Industry Organization, Lampang 52190, Thailand
| | - Supaphen Sripiboon
- Department of Large Animal and Wildlife Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Kasetsart University, Kamphaeng Saen Campus, Nakornpathom 73140, Thailand
| | | | | | - Thunyamas Guntawang
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50100, Thailand
| | - Janine L. Brown
- Center for Species Survival, Smithsonian National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute, 1500 Remount Rd., Front Royal, VA 22630, USA
| | - Chatchote Thitaram
- Center of Elephant and Wildlife Health, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50100, Thailand
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50100, Thailand
- Elephant, Wildlife and Companion Animal Research Group, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50100, Thailand
| | - Kidsadagon Pringproa
- Center of Elephant and Wildlife Health, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50100, Thailand
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50100, Thailand
- Elephant, Wildlife and Companion Animal Research Group, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50100, Thailand
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3
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Cagle LA, Stacy NI, Harvey JW, de Wit M, Adler L, Walsh M, Bonde R, Stokol T. Cytochemical staining of leukocytes and platelets in the Florida manatee ( Trichechus manatus latirostris): identification of a bilobed monocyte similar to other members of the Paenungulata. Front Vet Sci 2023; 10:1149000. [PMID: 37426076 PMCID: PMC10326046 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2023.1149000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2023] [Accepted: 05/26/2023] [Indexed: 07/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Manatees (Antillean-, Amazonian, and African-) and dugongs belong to the Order Sirenia, and when combined with elephants and rock hyraxes, form the Paenungulata. A bilobed mononuclear cell has previously been identified in elephants and rock hyraxes, but not in manatees and dugongs, with cytochemical staining identifying these cells as bilobed monocytes in elephants. The objective of this study was to characterize leukocytes (white blood cells, WBC) and platelets in blood films of Florida manatees (Trichechus manatus latirostris; n = 8) using one routine hematological (Wright-Giemsa) and eight cytochemical stains: alkaline phosphatase (ALP), α-naphthyl butyrate esterase (ANBE), chloroacetate esterase (CAE), Luna, myeloperoxidase (MPx), periodic acid-Schiff (PAS), Sudan black B (SBB), and toluidine blue (TB). Heterophils and lymphocytes comprised most of the WBC, with low numbers of eosinophils, basophils, and monocytes. Additionally, 1-3% of the WBC were bilobed mononuclear cells. Bilobed mononuclear cell proportions were similar to rock hyraxes, but lower than elephants (approximate range 20-60%). Heterophils and eosinophils were positive for MPx, ALP, SBB, and PAS, with heterophils also being positive for CAE. Most of the lymphocytes were positive for ANBE and they were variably positive for CAE. Monocytes and bilobed mononuclear cells had similar cytochemical staining reactions (variably positive for all stains, except Luna and TB), supporting a monocytic origin, like elephants. Platelets were ANBE- and PAS-positive. Luna stain was useful for identifying eosinophils and TB was uninformative. This study provides new information on the morphological features and cytochemical staining characteristics of WBC and platelets and will aid in obtaining accurate hematological data of Florida manatees.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura A. Cagle
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Nicole I. Stacy
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - John W. Harvey
- Department of Physiological Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Martine de Wit
- Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, The Marine Mammal Pathobiology Laboratory, St. Petersburg, FL, United States
| | - Laurie Adler
- Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Michael Walsh
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Robert Bonde
- Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Tracy Stokol
- Department of Population Medicine and Diagnostic Sciences, Cornell University, College of Veterinary Medicine, Ithaca, NY, United States
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4
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Xiang X, Kwame AW, Qing Y, Li S, Wang M, Ren J. Natural antioxidants inhibit oxidative stress-induced changes in the morphology and motility of cells. FOOD BIOSCI 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fbio.2023.102442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/17/2023]
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5
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Molenaar FM, Silvestre P. Clinical approach to colic and collapse in an Asian elephant (
Elephas maximus
) with
Salmonella saintpaul
septicaemia and subsequent ileus. VETERINARY RECORD CASE REPORTS 2021. [DOI: 10.1002/vrc2.214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Fieke M. Molenaar
- ZSL Whipsnade Zoo, Wildlife Health Services part of the Zoological Society of London Regents Park London United Kingdom
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6
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Yun Y, Sripiboon S, Pringproa K, Chuammitri P, Punyapornwithaya V, Boonprasert K, Tankaew P, Angkawanish T, Namwongprom K, Arjkumpa O, Brown JL, Thitaram C. Clinical characteristics of elephant endotheliotropic herpesvirus (EEHV) cases in Asian elephants ( Elephas maximus) in Thailand during 2006-2019. Vet Q 2021; 41:268-279. [PMID: 34511026 PMCID: PMC8475116 DOI: 10.1080/01652176.2021.1980633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Elephant endotheliotropic herpesvirus causes a hemorrhagic disease (EEHV-HD) that is a major cause of death in juvenile Asian elephants with EEHV1 and EEHV4 being the most prevalent. Aim To perform a retrospective clinical data analysis. Methods Records of a total of 103 cases in Thailand confirmed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) on blood and/or tissue samples. Results The severity of clinical signs varied among EEHV subtypes. EEHV1A was the most prevalent with 58%, followed by EEHV4 with 34%, EEHV1B with 5.8% and EEHV1&4 co-infection with 1.9%. Overall case fatality rate was 66%. When compared among subtypes, 100% case fatality rate was associated with EEHV1&4 co-infection, 83% with EEHV1B, 75% with EEHV1A, and the lowest at 40% for EEHV4. Calves 2- to 4-year old were in the highest age risk group and exhibited more severe clinical signs with the highest mortality. Majority of cases were found in weaned or trained claves and higher number of cases were observed in rainy season. A gender predilection could not be demonstrated. Severely affected elephants presented with thrombocytopenia, depletion of monocytes, lymphocytes and heterophils, a monocyte:heterophil (M:H) ratio lower than 2.37, hypoproteinemia (both albumin and globulin), severe grade of heterophil toxicity, and low red blood cell counts and pack cell volumes. Survival was not affected by antiviral drug treatment in the severely compromised animals. Conclusion Early detection by laboratory testing and aggressive application of therapies comprising of supportive and anti-viral treatment can improve survival outcomes of this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaoprapa Yun
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Center of Elephant and Wildlife Research, Chiang Mai University (FVM-CMU), Chiang Mai, Thailand.,Graduate Program in Veterinary Science, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Supaphen Sripiboon
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Large Animal and Wildlife Clinical Sciences, Kasetsart University (FVM-KU), Kamphaeng Saen Campus, Nakornpathom, Thailand
| | - Kidsadagon Pringproa
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Veterinary Biosciences and Public Health, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Phongsakorn Chuammitri
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Veterinary Biosciences and Public Health, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Veerasak Punyapornwithaya
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Veterinary Public Health and Food Safety Centre for Asia Pacific, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Khajohnpat Boonprasert
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Center of Elephant and Wildlife Research, Chiang Mai University (FVM-CMU), Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Pallop Tankaew
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Center of Elephant and Wildlife Research, Chiang Mai University (FVM-CMU), Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Taweepoke Angkawanish
- Elephant Hospital, National Elephant Institute (NEI), Forest Industry Organization, Lampang, Thailand
| | - Kittikul Namwongprom
- Elephant Hospital, National Elephant Institute (NEI), Forest Industry Organization, Lampang, Thailand
| | - Orapun Arjkumpa
- Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Provincial Livestock Office, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya Province, Thailand
| | - Janine L Brown
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Center of Elephant and Wildlife Research, Chiang Mai University (FVM-CMU), Chiang Mai, Thailand.,Center for Species Survival, Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute (SCBI), Front Royal, VA, USA
| | - Chatchote Thitaram
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Center of Elephant and Wildlife Research, Chiang Mai University (FVM-CMU), Chiang Mai, Thailand.,Department of Companion Animal and Wildlife Clinics, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
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7
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Perrin KL, Kristensen AT, Bertelsen MF, Denk D. Retrospective review of 27 European cases of fatal elephant endotheliotropic herpesvirus-haemorrhagic disease reveals evidence of disseminated intravascular coagulation. Sci Rep 2021; 11:14173. [PMID: 34238966 PMCID: PMC8266883 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-93478-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2021] [Accepted: 06/25/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Elephant endotheliotropic herpesvirus haemorrhagic disease (EEHV-HD) is widely acknowledged as the most common cause of mortality in young Asian elephants (Elephas maximus) in captivity. The objective of the current study was to perform a blinded, retrospective pathology review of European EEHV-HD fatalities, constituting the largest systematic assessment of EEHV-HD pathology to date. Findings between viral genotypes were compared with the aim to investigate if disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) could be substantiated as a significant complicating factor, thereby increasing the understanding of disease pathophysiology. Immunohistochemical staining confirmed endothelial cell (EC) damage and the presence of EC intranuclear inclusion bodies, demonstrating a direct viral cytopathic effect. Microthrombi were observed in 63% of cases in several organs, including lungs, which, together with widespread haemorrhage and thrombocytopenia reported in EEHV-HD case reports, supports the presence of overt DIC as a serious haemostatic complication of active EEHV infection. Death was attributed to widespread vascular damage with multi-organ dysfunction, including severe acute myocardial haemorrhage and subsequent cardiac failure. Systemic inflammation observed in the absence of bacterial infection may be caused by cytokine release syndrome. Findings reinforce the necessity to investigate cytokine responses and haemostatic status during symptomatic and asymptomatic EEHV viraemia, to potentially support the use of anti-inflammatory treatment in conjunction with anti-viral therapy and cardiovascular support.
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Affiliation(s)
- K L Perrin
- Center for Zoo and Wild Animal Health, Copenhagen Zoo, Roskildevej 38, 2000, Frederiksberg, Denmark.
- The Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Dyrlægevej 16, 1870, Frederiksberg, Denmark.
| | - A T Kristensen
- The Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Dyrlægevej 16, 1870, Frederiksberg, Denmark
| | - M F Bertelsen
- Center for Zoo and Wild Animal Health, Copenhagen Zoo, Roskildevej 38, 2000, Frederiksberg, Denmark
| | - D Denk
- International Zoo Veterinary Group, Station House, Parkwood Street, Keighley, BD21 4NQ, UK
- Institute for Animal Pathology, Ludwig-Maximilians-University, Veterinärstr. 13, 80539, Munich, Germany
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8
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Weisbrod TC, Isaza R, Cray C, Adler L, Stacy NI. The importance of manual white blood cell differential counts and platelet estimates in elephant hematology: blood film review is essential. Vet Q 2021; 41:30-35. [PMID: 33349154 PMCID: PMC7817171 DOI: 10.1080/01652176.2020.1867329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Unique features of elephant hematology are known challenges in analytical methodology like two types of monocytes typical for members of the Order Afrotheria and platelet counts of the comparatively small elephant platelet. To investigate WBC differential and platelet data generated by an impedance-based hematology analyzer without availability of validated species-specific software for recognition of elephant WBCs and platelets, compared to manual blood film review. Blood samples preserved in ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) of 50 elephants (n = 35 Elephas maximus and n = 15 Loxodonta africana) were used. A Mann-Whitney test for independent samples was used to compare parameters between methods and agreement was tested using Bland-Altman bias plots. All hematological variables, including absolute numbers of heterophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils, basophils, and platelets, were significantly different (p < 0.0001) between both methods of analysis, and there was no agreement using Bland-Altman bias plots. Manual review consistently produced higher heterophil and monocyte counts as well as platelet estimates, while the automated analyzer produced higher lymphocyte, eosinophil, and basophil counts. The hematology analyzer did not properly differentiate elephant lymphocytes and monocytes, and did not accurately count elephant platelets. These findings emphasize the importance of manual blood film review as part of elephant complete blood counts in both clinical and research settings and as a basis for the development of hematological reference intervals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatiana C Weisbrod
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Ramiro Isaza
- Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Carolyn Cray
- Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Laurie Adler
- Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Nicole I Stacy
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA.,Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
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9
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Changes in Leukogram and Erythrogram Results in Bitches with Vaginitis. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11051403. [PMID: 34069046 PMCID: PMC8156665 DOI: 10.3390/ani11051403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2021] [Revised: 04/27/2021] [Accepted: 05/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Inflammatory diseases of the reproductive tract of bitches are a common problem in veterinary practice. Vaginitis, which is an inflammation of the vagina, may have various causes and degrees of severity. The aim of this study was to analyze whether the inflammation of the vagina in dogs causes changes in the parameters of white blood cells (leukogram, which is the percentage of individual types of white blood cells) and red blood cells (erythrogram, changes in the shape of erythrocytes). The obtained results suggest that leukogram and erythrogram analyses may be useful diagnostic tools in veterinary practice. Abstract Vaginitis in female dogs is a problem most veterinarians face in their practice. It manifests as localized inflammation, and its variable etiology and different severities often make diagnosis problematic. The study consisted of comparing blood smears taken from 16 animals: 8 healthy bitches and 8 bitches with confirmed vaginitis. We analyzed the percentage of different types of white blood cells (leukogram) and changes in the shape of red blood cells (erythrogram) in both groups. We observed changes in red blood cell morphology, i.e., a higher percentage of lacrimocytes and schistocytes in female dogs with vaginitis compared to their healthy counterparts. The observed hematological changes may illustrate the severity of inflammation. The analysis of erythrograms showed a significantly higher percentage of lacrimocytes and schistocytes in diseased bitches (1.58 ± 1.19% and 0.13 ± 0.12%) compared to healthy animals (0.58 ± 0.38 and 0.00 ± 0.00, respectively). The obtained results may indicate that the analysis of erythrograms throughout the course of vaginitis in bitches may constitute a diagnostic tool, as opposed to the analysis of leukograms, which is more sensitive when it comes to the systemic inflammatory response of the organism. It seems that simultaneous analysis of erythrograms and leukograms may facilitate the diagnostic process in clinical practice.
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ACUTE HEMORRHAGIC DISEASE DUE TO ELEPHANT ENDOTHELIOTROPIC HERPESVIRUS 3A INFECTION IN FIVE AFRICAN ELEPHANTS ( LOXODONTA AFRICANA) AT ONE NORTH AMERICAN ZOOLOGICAL INSTITUTION. J Zoo Wildl Med 2021; 52:357-365. [PMID: 33827199 DOI: 10.1638/2020-0126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/25/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Acute hemorrhagic disease caused by elephant endotheliotropic herpesvirus (EEHV) infection is well recognized as a major threat to young Asian elephants (Elephas maximus) but has been less frequently documented in African elephants (Loxodonta africana). This report describes five sequential cases of EEHV3A infection in African elephants in managed care at one institution. All elephants developed disease within a 4-mo period. The first two cases were 6.5- and 7.5-yr-old females that presented with depressed mentation, anorexia, hematuria, and diarrhea. Both elephants died within 48-72 hr of the onset of illness despite treatment. Postmortem findings included widespread edema, ascites, and extensive petechiae and ecchymoses on the heart, liver, and spleen and within the gastrointestinal and urogenital tracts. Histologic examination identified disseminated vascular necrosis with edema, hemorrhage, and rare endothelial cell intranuclear inclusions typical of herpesvirus in multiple organs. The third and fourth cases were a 13-yr-old male and a 12-yr-old female that presented with minimal to no clinical signs, but with marked changes in hematologic parameters and high viremia detected by quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). Both elephants survived the infection with early and aggressive treatment. The fifth case was a 37-yr-old female that presented with lethargy and a decreased appetite. Low viremia was detected by qPCR, and mild to moderate hematologic changes were noted. Early treatment resulted in a successful outcome. This case series documents the first known reports of clinical disease and fatality associated with EEHV3A in African elephants.
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11
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BIOLOGICAL VARIATION OF HEMATOLOGY AND BIOCHEMISTRY PARAMETERS FOR THE ASIAN ELEPHANT ( ELEPHAS MAXIMUS), AND APPLICABILITY OF POPULATION-DERIVED REFERENCE INTERVALS. J Zoo Wildl Med 2021; 51:643-651. [PMID: 33480539 DOI: 10.1638/2020-0007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/22/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to objectively evaluate the biological variation of healthy Asian elephant (Elephas maximus) hematology and biochemistry parameters, therefore enabling evidence-based clinical decision-making to improve patient management. Ten clinically healthy elephants had blood samples collected weekly for 5 wk under standardized conditions. The analytical, between- and within-individual variation, index of individuality, and reference change values were calculated using previously reported methods. Large between-individual variation and small within-individual variation for almost all parameters indicated that individual normal values should be used for interpreting blood results from Asian elephants.
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12
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Steyrer C, Miller M, Hewlett J, Buss P, Hooijberg EH. Reference Intervals for Hematology and Clinical Chemistry for the African Elephant ( Loxodonta africana). Front Vet Sci 2021; 8:599387. [PMID: 33732737 PMCID: PMC7959782 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2021.599387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2020] [Accepted: 02/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The African elephant (Loxodonta africana) is listed as vulnerable, with wild populations threatened by habitat loss and poaching. Clinical pathology is used to detect and monitor disease and injury, however existing reference interval (RI) studies for this species have been performed with outdated analytical methods, small sample sizes or using only managed animals. The aim of this study was to generate hematology and clinical chemistry RIs, using samples from the free-ranging elephant population in the Kruger National Park, South Africa. Hematology RIs were derived from EDTA whole blood samples automatically analyzed (n = 23); manual PCV measured from 48 samples; and differential cell count results (n = 51) were included. Clinical chemistry RIs were generated from the results of automated analyzers on stored serum samples (n = 50). Reference intervals were generated according to American Society for Veterinary Clinical Pathology guidelines with a strict exclusion of outliers. Hematology RIs were: PCV 34–49%, RBC 2.80–3.96 × 1012/L, HGB 116–163 g/L, MCV 112–134 fL, MCH 35.5–45.2 pg, MCHC 314–364 g/L, PLT 182–386 × 109/L, WBC 7.5–15.2 × 109/L, segmented heterophils 1.5–4.0 × 109/L, band heterophils 0.0–0.2 × 109/L, total monocytes 3.6–7.6 × 109/L (means for “regular” were 35.2%, bilobed 8.6%, round 3.9% of total leukocytes), lymphocytes 1.1–5.5 × 109/L, eosinophils 0.0–0.9 × 109/L, basophils 0.0–0.1 × 109/L. Clinical chemistry RIs were: albumin 41–55 g/L, ALP 30–122 U/L, AST 9–34 U/L, calcium 2.56–3.02 mmol/L, CK 85–322 U/L, GGT 7–16 U/L, globulin 30–59 g/L, magnesium 1.15–1.70 mmol/L, phosphorus 1.28–2.31 mmol/L, total protein 77–109 g/L, urea 1.2–4.6 mmol/L. Reference intervals were narrower than those reported in other studies. These RI will be helpful in the future management of injured or diseased elephants in national parks and zoological settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christine Steyrer
- Department of Companion Animal Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Centre for Veterinary Wildlife Studies, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Michele Miller
- Division of Molecular Biology and Human Genetics, Department of Science and Innovation-National Research Foundation Centre of Excellence for Biomedical TB Research, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, South African Medical Research Council Centre for Tuberculosis Research, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Jennie Hewlett
- Department of Production Animal Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Centre for Veterinary Wildlife Studies, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Peter Buss
- Department of Production Animal Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Centre for Veterinary Wildlife Studies, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa.,Veterinary Wildlife Services, South African National Parks, Skukuza, South Africa
| | - Emma H Hooijberg
- Department of Companion Animal Clinical Studies, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Centre for Veterinary Wildlife Studies, University of Pretoria, Pretoria, South Africa
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13
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Khammesri S, Mathura Y, Boonprasert K, Ampasavate C, Hongwiset D, Brown JL, Thitaram C. Successful treatment of elephant endotheliotropic herpesvirus infection in an Asian elephant (Elephas maximus) calf by oral acyclovir medication: Case report. J Vet Med Sci 2020; 83:125-129. [PMID: 33239478 PMCID: PMC7870404 DOI: 10.1292/jvms.20-0375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Elephant endotheliotropic herpesvirus (EEHV) is a major cause of death in Asian elephant (Elephas maximus) calves. A 2-year, 11-month-old
female, captive Asian elephant presented with facial edema and a mild fever. Blood samples were collected and showed EEHV1A positivity with a high viral load by
real time PCR. Heterophil toxicity also was reported for the first time in this case. The calf was treated orally with acyclovir, 45 mg/kg tid for 28 days,
which reduced the EEHV1A viral load to undetectable levels within 9 days and the calf survived. A successful outcome with oral acyclovir administration provides
another and affordable option to treat EEHV hemorrhagic disease in Asian elephants, and one that is easier to administer in untrained calves.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siripat Khammesri
- Graduate Program in Veterinary Science, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chiang Mai University, 155, Mae Hia, Muang, Chiang Mai, 50100, Thailand.,Center of Elephant and Wildlife Research, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chiang Mai University, 155, Mae Hia, Muang, Chiang Mai, 50100, Thailand
| | - Yaoprapa Mathura
- Center of Elephant and Wildlife Research, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chiang Mai University, 155, Mae Hia, Muang, Chiang Mai, 50100, Thailand
| | - Khajohnpat Boonprasert
- Center of Elephant and Wildlife Research, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chiang Mai University, 155, Mae Hia, Muang, Chiang Mai, 50100, Thailand
| | - Chadarat Ampasavate
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Chiang Mai University, 239, Suthep Road, Muang, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
| | - Darunee Hongwiset
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Pharmacy, Chiang Mai University, 239, Suthep Road, Muang, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand
| | - Janine L Brown
- Center of Elephant and Wildlife Research, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chiang Mai University, 155, Mae Hia, Muang, Chiang Mai, 50100, Thailand.,Center for Species Survival, Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, Front Royal, VA 22630, USA
| | - Chatchote Thitaram
- Center of Elephant and Wildlife Research, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chiang Mai University, 155, Mae Hia, Muang, Chiang Mai, 50100, Thailand.,Department of Companion Animal and Wildlife Clinic, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Chiang Mai University, 155, Mae Hia, Muang, Chiang Mai, 50100, Thailand
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14
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Kehoe SP, Stacy NI, Frasca S, Stokol T, Wang C, Leach KS, Luo L, Rivera S. Leukocyte and Platelet Characteristics of the Giant Panda ( Ailuropoda melanoleuca): Morphological, Cytochemical, and Ultrastructural Features. Front Vet Sci 2020; 7:156. [PMID: 32266298 PMCID: PMC7105878 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2020.00156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2020] [Accepted: 03/04/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The giant panda (Ailuropoda melanoleuca) is a vulnerable species and a charismatic member of zoological collections worldwide. Despite its importance as a representative species for global wildlife conservation efforts, no studies to date have described normal cell morphology or cytoplasmic constituents by traditional techniques such as cytochemical staining and evaluation of ultrastructural features. The objective of this study was to accurately identify and characterize the leukocytes and platelets of clinically healthy giant pandas using routine Wright-Giemsa stain, eight cytochemical stains, immunocytochemistry (CD3), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) to further the collective understanding of normal cellular morphological features, cytochemical reactivity, and cytoplasmic contents found in health. Voluntary venipuncture was performed on four healthy individual animals (two adults and two juveniles), as part of routine preventive health evaluation. Blood was collected for routine and cytochemical stains, and into 2.5% glutaraldehyde for TEM. On Wright-Giemsa-stained blood films, leukocytes were differentiated into granulocytes (neutrophils, eosinophils, basophils) and mononuclear cells (lymphocytes, monocytes). Cytochemical staining revealed similar leukocyte and platelet staining patterns to those reported in other mammals, with some notable differences. By TEM, leukocytes with nuclear and cytoplasmic features of mononuclear cells were readily differentiated from granulocytes, and platelets had similar ultrastructural features to those reported in other mammals. Neutrophils were the predominant cell type followed by lymphocytes, while basophils were rare. Rare large or reactive lymphocytes, rare reactive monocytes, and rare large platelets were noted in apparently healthy giant pandas of this study. A unique mononuclear cell, with a moderately indented nucleus and shared cytochemical and ultrastructural characteristics of lymphocytes and monocytes, was discovered in this species. The combined cytochemical, immunocytochemical (CD3), and ultrastructural features of these unique cells more closely resemble those of monocytes, but the definitive cell lineage remains unknown at this time. This study provides novel information on giant panda leukocyte morphology and cellular constituents in health, shows the importance of manual blood film review, has important implications for hemogram interpretation in future clinical cases and research, and provides a baseline for future characterization and understanding of hemogram changes in response to disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Spencer P Kehoe
- Department of Veterinary Services, Zoo Atlanta, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Nicole I Stacy
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Salvatore Frasca
- Department of Comparative, Diagnostic, and Population Medicine, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, United States
| | - Tracy Stokol
- Department of Population Medicine and Diagnostic Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY, United States
| | - Chengdong Wang
- Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, Northern Suburb Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | | | - Li Luo
- Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, Northern Suburb Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Sam Rivera
- Department of Veterinary Services, Zoo Atlanta, Atlanta, GA, United States
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