Surgical Treatment of an Aneurysmal Bone Cyst in a Dog

Aneurysmal bone cysts are benign but locally aggressive lytic lesions of bone. Surgical curettage and cancellous bone grafting resulted in complete clinical and partial radiographic resolution of an aneurysmal bone cyst of the distal tibia.

Magnetic resonance imaging of cerebral cortical necrosis (polioencephalomalacia) in a dog

A 3-year-old neutered female mixed breed dog was examined because of severe, generalized seizure activity, tetraparesis, and encephalopathic signs. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) evaluation was unremarkable except for a mild increase in protein. Serum and CSF titers for infectious diseases were negative. Magnetic resonance (MR) imaging examination of the brain was performed and lesions were found within the cerebral gray matter of the temporal and parietal lobes. The lesions had increased signal intensity on T1, T2, and proton density-weighted images. There was mild inhomogeneous enhancement following intravenous contrast medium administration. Neurologic status improved and the seizures were well controlled, but the dog never regained normal mentation and euthanasia was performed 10 weeks after initial evaluation. At necropsy, severe cerebral cortical necrosis was found in the regions corresponding to the lesions seen on MR imaging examination. Large numbers of fat-containing macrophages (gitter cells) were found within these areas, and are thought to be responsible for the characteristic hyperintensity seen on the MR images.

Comparison of the radius of curvature of the ulnar trochlear notch of Rottweilers and Greyhounds

OBJECTIVE

To compare radius of curvature along the ulnar trochlear notch of Rottweilers and Greyhounds to determine whether morphologic differences exist that may contribute to the cause and pathogenesis of fragmented coronoid process in Rottweilers.

SAMPLE POPULATION

Paired elbow joints from 13 Rottweilers and 14 Greyhounds.

PROCEDURE

Elbow joints were radiographically scored on the basis of severity of osteoarthritic lesions. The articular contour of each ulnar trochlear notch was digitized. The radius of curvature at defined points along the ulnar trochlear notch was compared between breeds.

RESULTS

Radius of curvature of the ulnar trochlear notch was not a constant function of arc length in either breed but had a consistent characteristic appearance in both breeds. Radius of curvature was greatest at each end of the ulnar trochlear notch and had 2 peaks in the midportion of the notch in both breeds. These peaks occurred farther distally in the notch and were larger in Rottweiler ulnae than Greyhound ulnae. A significant difference in mean radius of curvature was detected between breeds at these peaks. Greyhounds had significantly greater mean radius of curvature at the end of the medial coronoid process, compared with Rottweilers.

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Radius of curvature of the ulnar trochlear notch is a complex function of arc length in Rottweilers and Greyhounds. The waveform has a consistent characteristic appearance in both breeds. Although significant differences were identified between breeds, associations between these differences and cause or pathogenesis of fragmented coronoid process in Rottweilers were not apparent.

Quantitative hepatobiliary scintigraphy in normal cats and in cats with experimental cholangiohepatitis

Quantitative hepatobiliary scintigraphy using 99mTc-mebrofenin was performed on eight normal cats and on the same cats after induction of experimental cholangiohepatitis by infection with the liver fluke Platynosomum concinnum. Hepatobiliary scintigraphy was performed 3 times at 10 weeks, 4 months and 6 months after infection. In addition, routine biochemical tests, hepatic ultrasound and ultrasound guided hepatic biopsy samples were obtained at the same time points, and the results compared with hepatobiliary scintigraphy. The normal hepatic extraction fraction was determined to be 85%, and the normal hepatic excretion half time (T 1/2) was 14 minutes. There was no significant change in scintigraphic parameters compared to pre-infection values at any time following infection with the liver fluke. No correlation between scintigraphic parameters and histologic scores was found; however, significant correlation was identified between parasite burden and histologic scores 6 months following infection. Despite the presence of severe multifocal histologic abnormalities, minimal clinical, biochemical and scintigraphic derangements were identified using this model of cholangiohepatitis. Based on this study, hepatobiliary scintigraphy appears to be an insensitive test for structural hepatobiliary abnormalities. The role of hepatobiliary scintigraphy in functional hepatobiliary abnormalities of the feline liver has not been determined.

Definition and determination of acetabular component orientation in cemented total hip arthroplasty

OBJECTIVE

To describe the spatial orientation of the cemented acetabular component in cemented total hip arthroplasty, based on a ventrodorsal and lateral radiographic projection of the pelvis.

METHODS

Equations were derived by using trigonometric relationships that describe the radiographic rotation about the longitudinal pelvic axis (alpha), transverse pelvic axis (beta), acetabular inclination (phi), acetabular inclination corrected for longitudinal pelvic rotation, version (phiC), acetabular version (theta), acetabular version corrected for longitudinal pelvic rotation (thetaC), acetabular inclination corrected for transverse pelvic rotation (phi(beta)), and acetabular version corrected for transverse pelvic rotation (theta(beta))

RESULTS

Alpha was calculated by using the equation alpha = sin(-1) (x/y) where x is the transverse distance between the dorsal spinous processes and the center of the pubis on a ventrodorsal radiograph and y is the distance from the pubis to the dorsal aspect of the first coccygeal vertebra perpendicular to the long axis of the pelvis on a lateral radiograph. Phi was calculated from the long axis (LA) and short axis (SA) of the ellipse formed by the radiopaque acetabular marker ring by using the equation phi = sin(-1) (SA/LA). phiC was calculated by using the equation phiC = phi +/- (alpha - tan(-1) (tan alpha cos thetaC)). Theta was determined as previously described. ThetaC was calculated by using the equation thetaC = tan(-1) (tan theta cos alpha). Theta(beta) and theta(beta) were calculated with the equations phi(beta) = tan(-1) (tan theta cos beta) and theta(beta) = theta - tan(-1) (sin beta), respectively. Beta could not be accurately determined from ventrodorsal and lateral pelvic radiographs.

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE

These techniques allow for more accurate postoperative radiographic assessment of acetabular component positioning. This information can then be used in retrospective or prospective analyses examining that effects of implant positioning on clinical outcome.

Acetabular component orientation as an indicator of implant luxation in cemented total hip arthroplasty

OBJECTIVE

To determine the sensitivity and specificity with which acetabular component angles of inclination and version could be used, alone or in combination, to predict luxation of cemented total hip arthroplasties (THA).

STUDY DESIGN

Comparison of retrospectively selected cases and controls

SAMPLE POPULATION

All THA performed at the University of Florida between 1991 and 1998 with the BioMedtrix system and for which at least 2 months of radiographic follow-up were available. All THA performed at the University of Georgia with the BioMedtrix system which subsequently luxated.

METHODS

Acetabular component inclination angle (IA) and acetabular version angle (VA) were determined for each THA. Data were grouped according to outcome - luxation or no luxation - with the luxated cases from the 2 institutions pooled. Receiver operator characteristic (ROC) analysis was used to evaluate decision rules for using IA and VA as tests for detecting postoperative luxation. Sensitivity and specificity for luxation and 95% confidence bounds were computed with selected values of IA and VA as cut-points.

RESULTS

The nonluxation group consisted of 68 THA with a median follow-up time of 5 months (range, 2-60 months). The luxation group consisted of 12 THA with a mean time to luxation of 36 days. The nonluxation group had a mean +/- standard deviation (SD) IA and VA of 40.3 degrees +/- 8.9 degrees and 71.1 +/- 13.6 degrees, respectively, whereas the luxation group had a mean +/- SD IA and VA of 34.7 degrees +/- 12.6 degrees and 72.9 degrees +/- 16.6 degrees, respectively. An IA cut-point of 37.8 degrees achieved 58.3% sensitivity and 57.4% specificity. A VA cut-point of 73 degrees achieved 75.0% sensitivity and 51.5% specificity. IA and VA considered simultaneously achieved a 50.0% sensitivity and 88.2% specificity.

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE

ROC analysis indicated that both IA and VA considered individually or simultaneously were poor indicators of luxation. Although extreme values of IA may predict luxation with high specificity, the potential for luxation cannot be excluded based on apparently appropriate values of IA and VA. The results of this study also indicate that a successful outcome is possible with a wide range of acetabular component positions.

Use of a circular external skeletal fixator for stifle arthrodesis in a dog

Arthrodesis of the right stifle was performed in a 21 kg German shepherd dog that had sustained a comminuted fracture of the lateral femoral condyle as a result of a gunshot wound. The arthrodesis was stabilised with a circular external skeletal fixator. A simplified technique to facilitate creation of the osteotomies of the femur and tibia, and positioning of the stifle at the desired angle, is described. Compression of the subchondral bone surfaces of the distal femur and proximal tibia was achieved using tensioned coiled transarticular Kirschner wires. Arthrodesis of the stifle was confirmed radiographically 21 weeks following surgery, and the fixator was removed. After union of the arthrodesis and removal of the fixator, the dog was fully weightbearing when standing or walking, and intermittently weightbearing or non-weightbearing at faster gaits.

Esophageal transit of capsules in clinically normal cats

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the esophageal passage of capsules in clinically normal cats and determine the incidence of prolonged transit or entrapment.

ANIMALS

12 clinically normal adult cats.

PROCEDURE

Esophageal transit of barium sulfate-filled capsules was evaluated fluoroscopically. Each cat was examined 3 times (36 examinations). Esophageal transit times were classified as normal (< or = 30 seconds) or prolonged (> 30 but < or = 240 seconds). Capsules were considered entrapped when transit times were > 240 seconds.

RESULTS

Transit times were normal in 10 of the 36 (27.8%) examinations, whereas times were prolonged in 7 (19.4%) examinations. Capsules became entrapped in the midcervical region of the esophagus during 19 (52.8%) examinations. Following termination of each examination, cats with entrapped capsules were fed a small amount (0.5 to 1 ounce) of food; this resulted in passage of the capsule to the stomach.

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE

The possibility of medication-induced esophagitis should be considered when orally administering ulcerogenic drugs to cats. It is recommended that a small volume of food be given following medications to ensure complete esophageal clearance.

Ultrasonographic features of canine gastrointestinal pythiosis

Pythiosis is a chronic pyogranulomatous infection of the gastrointestinal tract or skin caused by the water borne pathogen Pythium insidiosum. The ultrasonographic features of nine dogs with gastrointestinal pythiosis are reported. The stomach, duodenum, jejunum or colon were affected. All dogs had thickening of the gastrointestinal wall and areas with obliteration of the normal layered appearance. In one dog an eccentric mass was found arising from the serosal surface of the wall of the colon with mild diffuse wall thickening. Regional lymph node enlargement was seen in seven of the nine dogs. One dog had invasion of the pancreas and signs compatible with extrahepatic biliary obstruction. When compared to previous reports of gastrointestinal neoplasia, the features of wall thickening, loss of layering and regional lymphadenopathy are not considered specific for gastrointestinal pythiosis. Histological examination of tissue specimens is required for diagnosis.

Radiographic and ultrasonographic evaluation of the normal feline postpartum uterus

The radiographic and ultrasonographic appearance of the normal involution process of the feline postpartum uterus has not been previously described. Six queens were examined to determine the normal radiographic and ultrasonographic appearance of the involuting postpartum uterus. Radiographic and ultrasonographic examinations were performed daily from days one through ten, then on days 12, 14, 18, 24, and 28 postpartum. Radiographically the mean total uterine thickness was 16.5 mm at day one postpartum. By day 14 the mean total uterine thickness was 10.5 mm and by day 24 postpartum the uterus was not radiographically visible. Ultrasonographically at day one postpartum the mean total uterine thickness was 16.6 mm and the mean uterine wall thickness was 2.7 mm. At day 14 postpartum the mean total uterine thickness was 6.2 mm and the mean wall thickness was 2.1 mm. At day 28 postpartum the uterus could still be identified ultrasonographically however individual wall layers were not discernable.

Quantitative magnetic resonance imaging of the normal feline cranial abdomen

Magnetic resonance images of the cranial abdomen were acquired from 15 clinically normal cats. All cats had T1-weighted images, 8 cats had T2-images made and 7 cats had T1-weighted post Gd-DTPA images acquired. Signal intensity measurements for T1, T2, and T1 post contrast sequences were calculated for liver, spleen, gallbladder, renal cortex, renal medulla, pancreas, epaxial muscles, and peritoneal fat. On T1-weighted images the epaxial muscle had the lowest signal intensity, followed by renal medulla, spleen, renal cortex, pancreas, liver and fat, respectively. On T2-weighted images, epaxial muscle had the lowest signal intensity followed by liver, spleen, fat, and gallbladder lumen. Calculations of specific organ percent enhancement following contrast medium administration were made and compared with that reported in humans. A brief review of the potential clinical uses of MR in cats is presented.

Dynamic magnetic resonance imaging of the normal canine pituitary gland

The pituitary glands of six normal dogs were evaluated using dynamic magnetic resonance imaging. T1 weighted images were obtained every 13 seconds for three minutes of three contiguous slices through the pituitary gland following a bolus intravenous injection of gadolinium-DTPA. Contrast enhancement was seen initially in the region of the pituitary stalk at 52-65 seconds followed by uniform enhancement at 104-143 seconds post injection. This pattern of enhancement was seen in all subjects and is similar to that reported in humans.

Assessment of barium impregnated polyethylene spheres (BIPS) as a measure of solid-phase gastric emptying in normal dogs--comparison to scintigraphy

Barium impregnated polyethylene spheres (BIPS) are radiopaque markers used for investigation of a variety of gastrointestinal disorders. One proposed use of the small (1.5 mm) marker is quantitative assessment of solid-phase gastric emptying, which may offer a simple, inexpensive alternative to nuclear medicine studies. In this study the rate and pattern of gastric emptying of a radiolabeled meal containing 30 small BIPS was evaluated in normal dogs by simultaneous comparison of the radiopaque marker method and a scintigraphic method. Serial scintigraphic images and radiographs were obtained for 8 hours or until 95% of the markers had left the stomach. Emptying curves were constructed and statistical analyses performed. There were significant differences in gastric emptying times and lag phase characteristics between the BIPS and scintigraphic studies. These results indicate that in normal dogs there are differences in both the rate and the pattern of solid-phase gastric emptying of a radiolabeled meal as assessed by scintigraphy and the gastric emptying of small BIPS.

Magnetic resonance imaging and ultrasonography in the diagnosis of a malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor in a dog

A 9-year-old male neutered mixed breed dog had a two-month history of progressive left thoracic limb lameness. There was electromyographic evidence of denervation potentials in all muscles of this limb. In magnetic resonance images a multilobulated, hyperintense mass was visible caudal to the middiaphysis of the left humerus on T-2 weighted images. The mass, which was isointense with surrounding tissue on T1 weighted images, extended proximally towards the brachial plexus. The mass was also visible as a fusiform structure of mixed echogenicity sonographically, although fine-needle aspiration performed at this time was nondiagnostic. A malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor was diagnosed histopathologically.

Scintigraphic, sonographic, and histologic evaluation of renal autotransplantation in cats

OBJECTIVE

To determine scintigraphic, sonographic, and histologic changes associated with renal autotransplantation in cats.

ANIMALS

7 adult specific-pathogen-free cats: 5 males, 2 females, 1 to 9 years old.

PROCEDURE

Renal autotransplantation was performed by moving a kidney (5 left, 2 right) to the left iliac fossa. Before and at multiple times after surgery, for a total of 28 days, cats were evaluated by B-mode and Doppler ultrasonography, scintigraphy, and renal biopsy.

RESULTS

By 24 hours after surgery, a significant decrease (42%) in mean glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and an increase in mean renal size (81% increase in cross-sectional area) were evident in the transplanted kidney, compared with preoperative values. By postsurgery day 28, reduction in GFR was 23%. Significant changes in renal blood flow velocity were identified in both kidneys. Consistent changes in resistive index or pulsatility index for either kidney could not be identified. When all postoperative histologic data were combined, the histologic score, indicating degree and numbers of abnormalities detected, for the transplanted kidney was significantly higher than that for the control kidney.

CONCLUSIONS

Significant changes in renal function, size, and histologic abnormalities develop secondary to acute tubular necrosis in cats after uncomplicated renal autotransplantation.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Evaluation of renal size and function may be of benefit for clinical evaluation of feline renal transplant patients, whereas measurement of the resistive index may be of little clinical value.

Scintigraphic diagnosis of insulinoma in a dog

Diagnosis of insulin-secreting tumors of the pancreas can usually be made on the basis of endocrine testing and exclusion of other causes of hyperinsulinism. In dogs, these tumors have a poor long-term prognosis due to a high rate of metastases and recurrence; staging (and therefore prognosticating) is difficult and usually done at the time of surgery. The purpose of this article is to describe a canine patient with an insulinoma, discuss the diagnostic imaging options for tumor evaluation and mention future directions for therapy. Insulinoma was suspected in an 8-year-old intact male Irish Setter. Somatostatin receptor scintigraphy using indium In-111 pentetreotide was performed and an area of increased radiopharmaceutical accumulation was found craniomedial to the right kidney. At surgery a small mass lesion in the pancreas and a larger, closely associated mass involving a mesenteric lymph node were removed. Histopathology confirmed the diagnosis of insulinoma with regional lymph node metastasis. The dog recovered from surgery and remained normal fourteen months later.

Sonography of the normal feline gastrointestinal tract

The normal sonographic appearance of the stomach in various degrees of distension, the duodenum, the small intestine, and the large intestine was determined in awake and sedated cats. The mean stomach rugal fold thickness was 4.38 mm, and the interrugal thickness was 2.03 mm. No significant difference in stomach wall thickness was seen when the stomach was empty, half full, or full. The duodenal wall thickness was significantly greater than other parts of the small intestine, and this difference was accentuated by sedation (awake mean 2.4 mm; sedated mean 2.71 mm). The mean small intestinal wall thickness was 2.1 mm, and the mean colonic wall thickness was 1.67 mm. The five characteristic sonographic layers similar to that seen in the gastrointestinal tract of other species were routinely identified at all regions of the feline gastrointestinal tract.

Correlations between ultrasonographic findings and specific hepatic diseases in cats: 72 cases (1985-1997)

OBJECTIVE

To identify correlations between ultrasonographic findings and specific hepatic diseases in cats.

DESIGN

Retrospective study.

SAMPLE POPULATION

Medical records of 72 cats with a histopathologic diagnosis of hepatic disease and diagnostic-quality abdominal ultrasonograms between 1985 and 1997.

PROCEDURE

Abdominal ultrasonographic findings in 72 cats with histologically confirmed hepatic disease (hepatic lipidosis excluded) were reviewed. Rather than attempt to combine individual ultrasonographic findings with specific hepatic diseases, 2 classification trees were created as models to correlate certain groups of abnormalities with specific hepatic diseases or with malignant and benign lesions of the liver. Sensitivity and specificity of classification trees were calculated.

RESULTS

Use of a classification tree resulted in correct classification of malignant versus benign hepatic lesions in 88.9% of cats that had hepatic disease (sensitivity, 90.7%; specificity, 86.1%). Use of a classification tree to distinguish individual types of hepatic diseases resulted in mostly accurate classification of hepatic lymphosarcoma (sensitivity, 70.5%; specificity, 98.2%), cholangitis-cholangiohepatitis syndrome (sensitivity, 87%; specificity, 90%), and benign lesions of the liver (sensitivity, 84.6%; specificity, 86.4%). Criteria that helped most in differentiating among various hepatic diseases were abnormalities within other organs (spleen, lymph nodes) and appearance of the hepatic portal system. A correlation was not found between focal or multifocal appearance of hepatic lesions and specific hepatic diseases.

CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS

Use of classification trees to distinguish among specific hepatic diseases or between malignant and benign hepatic lesions provides potentially useful algorithms for ultrasonographic evaluation of cats with hepatic disease.

Doppler ultrasound of the prostate in normal dogs and in dogs with chronic lymphocytic-lymphoplasmocytic prostatitis

The prostate gland of 11 normal dogs and five dogs with histologically confirmed chronic lymphocytic or lymphoplasmocytic prostatitis were imaged with grey-scale and Doppler ultrasound. Three vessel types (prostatic artery, capsular artery and parenchymal artery) were identified with color Doppler and the resistive index and maximum and minimum velocities were measured with pulsed wave Doppler. No differences between normal dogs and dogs with prostatitis was identified in either grey-scale ultrasound or in any Doppler parameters measured. Regardless of histologic diagnosis, acepromazine (0.05 mg/kg i.v.) caused a significant decrease in capsular artery maximum and minimum velocities and prostatic artery resistive index. This study establishes normal Doppler ultrasound parameters for the intact male canine prostate gland. Additional studies are necessary to further evaluate the clinical utility of Doppler ultrasound in canine prostatic diseases.

The dural tail sign in the diagnosis of meningiomas

In humans the dural tail is a sign seen on contrast enhanced T1 weighted magnetic resonance images. This finding is considered specific for meningioma. The purpose of this study was to determine how often the dural tail occurs in cats and dogs and whether it is a specific sign for meningiomas in these species. MR examinations for eighteen dogs and four cats with proven diagnoses were reviewed. Diagnoses included ten meningiomas (seven dogs and three cats), three gliomas, two pituitary tumors, single examples of two other tumor types and five patients with mass lesions due to inflammatory disease. Contrast enhanced T1 weighted images were evaluated independently by three of the authors for the presence of a dural tail, without knowledge of the diagnoses. The results were compared to the diagnosis for each patient and the performance of individual reviewers compared. When their results were averaged, the reviewers reported the presence of a dural tail in 6 of 10 (60%) meningiomas, although detection varied between observers from 40% to 80%. Each reviewer had one false positive result, two reported a dural tail with a chromophobe adenocarcinoma and one with a toxoplasma meningoencephalitis. When a dural tail is seen an associated mass is most likely a meningioma. It is uncertain whether the dural tail represents neoplastic infiltration beyond the margins of the meningioma. This should be considered when planning treatment.

Cardiopulmonary and anesthetic effects of propofol administered intraosseously to green iguanas

OBJECTIVE

To determine cardiopulmonary effects of intraosseous administration of propofol in green iguanas (Iguana iguana).

DESIGN

Prospective study.

ANIMALS

14 green iguanas.

PROCEDURE

Anesthesia was induced in 4 iguanas with propofol (10 mg/kg [4.5 mg/lb] of body weight, intraosseously). Heart and respiratory rates, functional hemoglobin oxygen saturation (SpO2), end-tidal CO2 concentration, and cloacal temperature were recorded. Ten additional iguanas were given propofol intraosseously for induction (5 mg/kg [2.3 mg/lb] and maintenance (0.5 mg/kg/min [0.23 mg/lb/min], q 30 min) of anesthesia. Heart and respiratory rates, cloacal temperature, and SpO2 were recorded.

RESULTS

Mean induction time for the first 4 iguanas was 1.2 minutes. A significant decrease in heart rate was seen 1 minute after induction of anesthesia. All iguanas were apneic, but spontaneous ventilation resumed within 5 minutes. End-tidal CO2 concentration decreased from 46 mm of Hg 4 minutes after induction of anesthesia to 32 mm of Hg 30 minutes after induction of anesthesia. Mean duration of anesthesia was 27 minutes. Mean induction time for the other 10 iguanas was 3 minutes. A significant decrease in heart rate was detected 35 minutes after induction of anesthesia and persisted until 120 minutes. Mean SpO2 value decreased from 79% 5 minutes after induction of anesthesia to 64% 30 minutes after induction of anesthesia. Mean recovery time was 57 minutes.

CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS

Propofol is an effective anesthetic agent for use in green iguanas. It is recommended that iguanas be intubated, provided oxygen, and given assisted ventilation after administration of propofol to prevent hypoxemia and hypercapnia.

Primary encephalic plasma cell tumor in a dog

A 5-year-old female spayed Spitz dog had a 5-week history of right head tilt, seizures, and progressive quadriplegia. Analysis of cerebrospinal fluid revealed 27,600 white blood cells per microliter with 63% mononuclear phagocytes, 27% lymphocytes, 6% neutrophils, 3% plasmacytoid cells, and 1% eosinophils, and over 2000 mg/dl protein. On contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance images, a focal 1-cm oval lesion was identified in the right ventral brainstem. There was also marked contrast enhancement of the meninges in the following areas: surrounding the brainstem, outlining cerebellar folia, along the ventral floor of the brain and extending to the falx cerebri, and partially outlining the left frontal lobe. At necropsy, the areas of contrast enhancement corresponded to the presence of compact cellular sheets of pleomorphic, anisocytotic, oval to polygonal neoplastic cells with plasmacytoid differentiation. The smaller of these plasmacytoid cells stained predominantly for cytoplasmic immunoglobulin A using immunoperoxidase methodology. Ultrastructurally, the neoplastic cells had morphologic features typical of plasma cells, with large amounts of predominantly rough endoplasmic reticulum with variably prominent Golgi formation. This is the first report of a canine primary intracranial malignant plasma cell tumor.

Incidence of contralateral versus ipsilateral neurological signs associated with lateralised Hansen type I disc extrusion

Asymmetrical neurological signs were noted in 50 dogs presenting with Hansen type I thoracolumbar disc extrusion. Thoracolumbar myelograms and surgical decompression were performed in all cases. Dogs were divided into two groups (acute and chronic) based on the duration of clinical signs prior to presentation to the University of Georgia. Lateralising extradural cord compressive lesions were noted on all myelograms. In the acute group, 35 per cent of the dogs had asymmetrical neurological signs contralateral to the myelographic and surgical lesion, while in the chronic group only 11 per cent had neurological signs contralateral to the lesion. There was found to be no significant difference in frequency of contralateral asymmetrical clinical signs between the two groups (Fischer's exact test; P = 0.095). The high frequency of contralateral signs documents the importance of thoracolumbar myelography for accurate localisation of the disc material before decompressive surgery.

Effects of three sedative protocols on glomerular filtration rate in clinically normal dogs

OBJECTIVE

To determine the effects of 3 sedative protocols (butorphanol and diazepam [BD] IV; acepromazine and butorphanol [AB] IV; diazepam and ketamine [DK] IV) on glomerular filtration rate (GFR) as measured by 99mTc DTPA nuclear scintigraphy and to compare them with GFR measured without sedation. Cardiovascular, respiratory, and sedative effects of each protocol also were measured.

ANIMALS

12 adult male Walker Hounds.

PROCEDURE

Systolic, diastolic, and mean arterial blood pressures and heart and respiratory rates were measured before, during, and after scintigraphic measurement of GFR.

RESULTS

Difference in GFR was not significant between any of the sedative regimens and the control. The DK protocol caused significant increases in systolic, diastolic, and mean arterial blood pressure; compared with the AB and BD protocols, it caused significant increases in heart rate versus all protocols, and was associated with the lowest mean GFR (2.80 ml/min/kg of body weight). The AB protocol caused significant decreases in systolic, diastolic, and mean arterial blood pressures, compared with DK and the nonsedation protocols. Mean GFR for the BD protocol was 2.94 ml/min/kg, and was 3.13 ml/min/kg for the AB and the nonsedation protocols. The AB protocol provided the best sedation with minimal additional restraint required. The BD and nonsedation protocols often were associated with substantial dog movement. The DK protocol induced inadequate duration of immobilization (< 10 minutes) in some dogs and excitement in others.

CONCLUSION

GFR measurements obtained with any of the sedative protocols were not significantly different, compared with measurements in awake dogs. The AB protocol provides the best sedative effects and was associated with GFR values identical to those in awake dogs. Systemic hypotension caused by acepromazine did not decrease GFR in clinically normal dogs.

Accessory lung lobe torsion and chylothorax in an Afghan hound

Torsion of the accessory lung lobe is extremely rare and has been reported only in one human. Accessory lung lobe torsion (LLT) and chylothorax occurred in a 3.5-year-old, male Afghan hound. An exploratory thoracotomy was used to remove the torsed lung lobe. When medical management of the chylous effusion failed, thoracic duct ligation was performed, resulting in resolution of the effusion. The dog remains clinically healthy 29 months postoperatively.

Hepatobiliary scintigraphy in the evaluation of feline liver disease

Hepatobiliary scintigraphy (HBS) was performed in 10 cats with histologically documented hepatobiliary disease. The scintigraphic patterns were classified into one of 5 categories: normal, primary hepatocellular dysfunction, primary intrahepatic cholestasis, mixed hepatocellular and intrahepatic cholestasis, and extrahepatic obstructive patterns. Initial attempts were made to correlate specific disease entities with HBS patterns, but a consistent relationship could not be determined. A correlation between the histological severity of a given hepatic disease and the HBS pattern was made. All cats (n = 5) with a mixed hepatocellular and intrahepatic cholestasis scintigraphic pattern with normal gallbladder function had a histologically severe form of their individual hepatic disease. Three of the 4 cats with an intrahepatic cholestasis pattern and normal hepatocellular and gallbladder function had histologically mild or moderate forms of their individual hepatic diseases. One cat had an extrahepatic obstructive pattern where no radiopharmaceutical was identified in the gallbladder or small intestine by 3 hours postinjection. This study suggests that HBS can be useful in cats with hepatobiliary disease to assess the severity of hepatic dysfunction, and to determine if extrahepatic biliary obstruction is present. Correlation between HBS patterns and specific disease entities such as hepatic lipidosis or cholangitis-cholangiohepatitis syndrome could not be made in this study.

Factors associated with home advantage in English and Scottish soccer matches

Using the results from the end-of-season (1992-93) league tables, overall home advantage was confirmed in the eight major divisions of the English and Scottish football leagues. The degree of home advantage was found to vary significantly across the divisions. Furthermore, these divisional differences in home advantage were found to be significantly associated with the mean attendance of each division. In an attempt to understand these findings, every occurrence of two influential events (either a sending-off or penalty scored) reported in a national Sunday newspaper was recorded. The overall frequency of both sendings-off and penalties scored favoured the home side, but again this was not constant across the divisions. In divisions with large crowds, the percentage of home sendings-off was relatively small (30%), compared with no difference (50%) in divisions with smaller crowds. Similarly, the percentage of penalties scored by home sides in divisions with the largest crowds was large ( > 70%), in contrast to little or no advantage in divisions with smaller crowds. Two possible explanations for these findings were proposed. Either larger crowds were able to provoke the away player into more reckless behaviour (real fouls), or influence the referee into believing that the away player had committed more fouls (perceived fouls).

Gallbladder mucocele causing biliary obstruction in two dogs: ultrasonographic, scintigraphic, and pathological findings

Two dogs were found to have intraluminal gallbladder masses which caused partial or complete extrahepatic biliary obstruction. On histological examination, the gallbladder masses were confirmed to be mucoceles. Gallbladder mucoceles are rare in humans and previously have been described only after gallbladder rupture in two dogs. In the dogs of this report, the biliary obstruction was relieved by cholecystectomy. Each dog also had histological evidence of chronic liver disease with intrahepatic cholestasis. The clinical diagnosis of biliary obstruction was based on scintigraphic and sonographic findings which will be discussed and compared with other hepatobiliary diseases.

Use of hepatobiliary scintigraphy in clinically normal cats

Hepatobiliary scintigraphy provides a noninvasive assessment of hepatobiliary structure and function, and has been used extensively in people. Hepatocellular measurements determined in the cats of this study include cardiac washout (< or = 2 minutes) and time of maximal hepatic activity (< or = 5 minutes) and hepatic washout (< or = 30 minutes). The gallbladder response to synthetic cholecystokinin was determined to be < or = 3 minutes. Additional measurements also were identified. Potential use of hepatobiliary scintigraphy in feline medicine is discussed.

Actions of gastrin-releasing peptide and related mammalian and amphibian peptides on ion transport in the porcine proximal jejunum

The 27-amino acid peptide gastrin-releasing peptide (GRP) and the decapeptide neuromedin B (NMB) are structurally related to bombesin (BB) and exist within the mammalian small intestine. We examined the actions of porcine GRP and NMB on ion transport in the porcine proximal jejunum in vitro and compared their activities to those of their respective C-terminal amphibian homologs BB and ranatensin (RT). The 4 peptides transiently increased potential difference and short-circuit current (Isc) in jejunal mucosal sheets after their serosal administration in subnanomolar concentrations with an order of potency: GRP approximately RT greater than or equal to NMB greater than BB. BB and RT were more effective in elevating Isc than GRP and NMB; all peptides had variable effects on tissue conductance. Mucosal Isc responses to GRP (1 nM) were due in part to a stimulation of net Cl- secretion. GRP-induced Isc increases were halved by serosal furosemide (0.3 mM) and reduced by 65% and 90% in tissue bathing solutions lacking Cl- or Cl- and HCO3-, respectively. Tetrodotoxin reduced Isc responses to the peptide by 40%; GRP activity remained unaffected after blockade of gut muscarinic or nicotinic cholinergic receptors by atropine or hexamethonium, respectively. These results suggest that GRP and its natural homologs stimulate active electrogenic Cl- secretion in the porcine jejunum through interactions with GRP receptors located in the intestinal mucosa and submucosa.

Utility of the modified Health Belief Model in predicting compliance with treatment by adult patients with advanced cancer

The purpose of this study was twofold. The primary purpose was to assess why some adult patients with advanced cancer who attend local outpatient clinics used unorthodox cancer therapies while others did not. Another purpose was to survey the prevalence of use of such unorthodox treatment by these patients. A questionnaire was developed based on the Health Belief Model, with an emphasis on cancer treatment. In addition, locus of control questions were developed to measure the participants' locus-of-control orientation about cancer treatment. Also included were attitude questions based on Ajzen and Fishbein's value-expectancy model, to measure the difficulty which barriers to treatment (e.g., cost, side effects) caused the respondents. The final test had eight subscales and demographic questions. Internal reliabilities ranged from .56 to .88. Stepwise multiple regression analyses showed that the variables which accounted for the largest portion of explained variance (10%) of use of unorthodox therapies were knowledge, attitudes, and education. The incidence of unorthodox cancer treatments was 23%. Also, the user of unorthodox therapies was likely to be younger, better educated, more knowledgeable concerning cancer treatments, and had more negative attitudes toward the barriers to cancer treatment.