Characterization of matrix metalloproteinase-2 and -9 in cerebrospinal fluid of clinically normal dogs

OBJECTIVE: To characterize matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2 and -9 in CSF of clinically normal dogs. SAMPLE POPULATION: Samples of CSF collected from 23 dogs. PROCEDURE: Dogs were anesthetized, CSF samples were collected, and dogs were then euthanatized. Each CSF sample was evaluated immediately for RBC count, WBC count, and protein and glucose concentrations, and cytologic examination also was performed. Samples were considered normal when protein concentration was < 25 mg/dL and CSF contained < 6WBCs/microL and < 25 RBCs/microL. Samples were stored at -70 degrees C. Sections of brain tissue were collected and processed for histologic examination. The MMPs were evaluated by use of gelatin zymography and a polyclonal antibody-based sandwich ELISA. RESULTS: Mean WBC count for CSF samples was < 1 WBC/microL (range, 0 to 3 WBCs/mL). Mean protein concentration was 12 mg/dL (range, 8 to 17 mg/dL). Mean RBC count was 3.65 RBCs/microL (range, 0 to 21 RBCs/microL). All CSF samples generated a clear band on zymography gels that corresponded to the human commercial standard of proenzyme MMP-2. Other major clear bands were not detected on zymography gels. Bands correlating to MMP-9 were not detected in any samples. The ELISA results revealed a mean +/- SD proenzyme MMP-2 concentration of 5.61 +/- 1.92 ng/mL (range, 3.36 to 10.83 ng/mL). CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: The proenzyme form of MMP-2 is detectable in CSF of clinically normal dogs, whereas MMP-9 is not detectable. Additional investigation of MMPs in CSF from dogs with various diseases of the nervous system is indicated.     

Collection and analysis of peritoneal fluid from healthy llamas and alpacas

OBJECTIVE: To describe a technique for abdominocentesis in camelids and report peritoneal fluid biochemical and cytologic findings from healthy llamas and alpacas. DESIGN: Prospective study. Animals-17 adult llamas and 5 adult alpacas. PROCEDURES: Right paracostal abdominocentesis was performed. Peritoneal fluid was collected by gravity flow into tubes containing potassium-EDTA for cell count and cytologic evaluation and lithium heparin for biochemical analysis. Blood samples were collected via jugular venipuncture into heparinized tubes at the same time. Cytologic components were quantified. Fluid pH and concentrations of total carbon dioxide, sodium, potassium, chloride, lactate, and glucose were compared between peritoneal fluid and venous blood. RESULTS: All but 3 camelids had peritoneal fluid cell counts of < 3,000 nucleated cells/microL, with < 2,000 neutrophils/microL and < 1,040 large mononuclear cells/microL. All but 1 had peritoneal fluid protein concentrations of > or = 2.5 g/dL. Peritoneal fluid of camelids generally contained slightly less glucose, lactate, and sodium and roughly equal concentrations of potassium and chloride as venous blood. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Peritoneal fluid was collected safely from healthy camelids. Compared with blood, peritoneal fluid usually had a low cell count and protein concentration, but some individuals had higher values. Electrolyte concentrations resembled those found in blood. High cell counts and protein concentrations found in peritoneal fluid of some healthy camelids may overlap with values found in diseased camelids, complicating interpretation of peritoneal fluid values.     

Effects of blood contamination of cerebrospinal fluid on results of indirect fluorescent antibody tests for detection of antibodies against Sarcocystis neurona and Neospora hughesi.

The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of blood contamination of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) on the results of indirect fluorescent antibody tests (IFATs) for Sarcocystis neurona and Neospora hughesi. The in vitro study used antibody-negative CSF collected from non-neurologic horses immediately after euthanasia and blood samples from 40 healthy horses that had a range of IFAT antibody titers against S. neurona and N. hughesi. Serial dilutions of whole blood were made in seronegative CSF to generate blood-contaminated CSF with red blood cell (RBC) concentrations ranging from 10 to 100,000 RBCs/microl. The blood-contaminated CSF samples were then tested for antibodies against both pathogens using IFAT. Blood contamination of CSF had no detectable effect on IFAT results for S. neurona or N. hughesi at any serologic titer when the RBC concentration in CSF was <10,000 RBCs/microl. At concentrations of 10,000-100,000 RBCs/microl of CSF, positive CSF results (IFAT titer >or=5) for S. neurona and N. hughesi were detected only when the corresponding serum titers were >or=160 and >or=80, respectively. The IFAT performed on CSF is reliable for testing horses for equine protozoal myeloencephalitis caused by S. neurona or N. hughesi, even when blood contamination causes the RBC concentration in CSF to be up to 10,000 RBCs/microl.     

Hematology and plasma chemistry reference intervals for cultured shortnose sturgeon (Acipenser brevirostrum)

BACKGROUND: The shortnose sturgeon, Acipenser brevirostrum, is an imperiled species distributed along the Atlantic coast of North America. Interest in replenishing wild stocks with hatchery-reared fish has created a need for accurate hematologic and biochemical reference intervals to evaluate the health of both fish raised in aquaculture systems and fish in the wild. OBJECTIVES: The objective of this study was to generate hematologic and biochemistry reference intervals for healthy shortnose sturgeon. METHODS: Blood samples were collected in heparinized tubes from 77 shortnose sturgeon raised in flow-through aquaculture systems. Whole blood and plasma samples were analyzed for hematologic and biochemical variables using standard techniques. Reference intervals were calculated as the central 95% (percentile) of data. RESULTS: Hematologic reference intervals (n = 46) were as follows: PCV 26-46%, hemoglobin 5.7-8.7 g/dL, MCV 307-520 fL, MCH 65.9-107.1 pg, MCHC 15-30 g/dL, plasma proteins (refractometry) 2.8-6.0 g/dL, RBC count 0.65-1.09 x 10(6)/microL, total WBC count 28,376-90,789/microL, small lymphocytes 9063-56,656/microL, large lymphocytes 2122-10,435/microL, neutrophils 3758-33,592/microL, monocytes 0-7137/microL, eosinophils 0-1544/microL, thrombocyte-like cells 6863-23,046/microL, thrombocytes 32,205-122,179/microL, and neutrophil:lymphocyte ratio 0.068-1.026. Plasma chemistry reference intervals (n = 77) were as follows: total protein 2.7-5.3 g/dL, albumin 0.8-1.7 g/dL, globulins 1.8-3.7 mg/dL, creatinine 0-1.4 mg/dL, total bilirubin 0-0.1 mg/dL, alkaline phosphatase 47-497 U/L, aspartate aminotransferase 90-311 U/L, sodium 124-141 mmol/L, potassium 2.9-3.7 mmol/L, chloride 106-121 mmol/L, calcium 6.6-12.1 mg/dL, magnesium 1.6-2.3 mg/dL, phosphorus 5.1-8.1 mg/dL, glucose 37-74 mg/dL, cholesterol 42-133 mg/dL, and osmolality 232-289 mOsm/kg. CONCLUSION: Reference values reported here will be useful for the early detection, identification, and monitoring of disease and sublethal conditions in cultured shortnose sturgeon.     

Leukocyte and thrombocyte reference values for channel catfish (Ictalurus punctatus Raf), with an assessment of morphologic, cytochemical, and ultrastructural features

BACKGROUND: Hematology tests are useful to evaluate physiologic disturbances in fish and can provide important information for the diagnosis and prognosis of disease. OBJECTIVES: The primary purpose of this study was to define reference intervals for thrombocytes and leukocytes in healthy channel catfish (Ictalurus punctatus). In addition, the morphologic, cytochemical, and ultrastructural features of blood cells were assessed. METHODS: Blood samples (0.5 mL) were collected into EDTA from 40 clinically healthy catfish on a commercial fish farm in Jaboticabal, Brazil. Thrombocyte, total WBC, and differential WBC counts were determined and reference intervals were calculated as the 25-95th percentiles of data. Thrombocyte and leukocyte morphology was assessed in blood smears stained with May Grünwald-Giemsa-Wright and ultrastructurally by transmission electron microscopy. Cytochemical staining patterns were described using periodic acid-Schiff (PAS), peroxidase, nonspecific esterase, alkaline phosphatase, and toluidine blue. RESULTS: Reference intervals were as follows: thrombocytes 58,802-99,569/microL; total WBCs 27,460-41,523/microL; lymphocytes 5380-11,581/microL; monocytes 2949-7459/microL; neutrophils 12,529-22,748/microL, and basophils 736-2003/microL. Neutrophils were positive for peroxidase and PAS; monocytes were positive for nonspecific esterase; and basophils were positive with toluidine blue. CONCLUSION: The morphologic and staining features of neutrophils and monocytes of channel catfish are similar to those of mammals, and the presence of basophils in this species was verified. These reference intervals and morphologic findings provide a foundation for future investigations on the functions and alterations of blood cells in channel catfish.     

Cytologic analysis of synovial fluid in clinically normal tarsal joints of young camels (Camelus dromedarius)

BACKGROUND: Camels are important in the racing industry and for milk, meat, and hair production in the Middle East. Evaluation of synovial fluid is an important part of the assessment of musculoskeletal injuries in this species. Information in the literature regarding synovial fluid in camels is limited. OBJECTIVES: The objective of this study was to determine the protein and cellular composition of synovial fluid from the tarsal joints of clinically normal, young camels (Camelus dromedarius). METHODS: Thirty clinically healthy, male camels, aged 9 to 12 months, were used in the study. Synovial fluid samples were collected from the right and left tarsal joints. Samples were processed within 60 minutes after collection. Total nucleated cell counts (TNCC) were assessed using a hemacytometer. Total protein concentration was determined using a refractometer. RESULTS: Forty-six samples were analyzed. The TNCC (mean +/- SD) was 175.8 +/- 136.7 cells/microL (range 50-678 cells/microL). Differential cell percentages were obtained for lymphocytes (58.2 +/- 21.55%, range 15-90%), monocyte/macrophages (38.3 +/- 20.8%, range 10-85%), and neutrophils (3.5 +/- 5.1%, range 0-15%). Protein concentration was 2.1 +/- 0.6 g/dL (range 1-3 g/dL). Significant differences were not observed in any parameters between right and left tarsal joints. CONCLUSION: Synovial fluid reference values were established and may be useful in the clinical investigation of joint disease in young camels.     

Reference intervals for feline cerebrospinal fluid: cell counts and cytologic features

Reference intervals for feline CSF cell counts and cytologic variables were determined. Values were derived from 58 adult cats that had normal neurologic examination findings and did not have histologic lesions of the CNS. Effect of age or gender was not apparent for any CSF variable, and no CSF variable was significantly correlated with its corresponding blood value. Total WBC count and neutrophil and eosinophil percentages were positively correlated with the CSF RBC count. Thus, proposed reference intervals for feline CSF were derived from 33 cats with CSF RBC count of less than 31 cells/ul. Data for CSF samples with range between 31 and 1,700 RBC/microliters were also determined. Erythrocyte count was not significantly different in CSF collected, using 20- or 22-gauge spinal needles.     

Comparison of total white blood cell count and total protein content of lumbar and cisternal cerebrospinal fluid of healthy dogs

Lumbar and cisternal CSF from 31 healthy dogs were analyzed and compared statistically. The mean total protein of the lumbar CSF samples was 28.68 mg/dl; the mean total protein of cisternal CSF was 13.97 mg/dl. The mean total WBC count of lumbar CSF was 0.55 cells/microliter; the mean WBC count of cisternal CSF was 1.45 cells/microliter. Statistical analysis indicated that the protein and WBC differences between the 2 types of CSF were significant (P = less than 0.001 and P = less than 0.01, respectively).     

Absolute and relative cell counts for synovial fluid from clinically normal shoulder and stifle joints in cats

OBJECTIVE: To determine absolute and relative cell counts for synovial fluid from grossly, radiographically, and histologically normal shoulder and stifle joints in healthy cats. DESIGN: Clinical study. ANIMALS: 52 cats scheduled to be euthanatized for unrelated reasons. PROCEDURE: Arthrocentesis of the shoulder and stifle joints was performed bilaterally, and synovial fluid was analyzed for absolute WBC count, WBC morphology, and percentages of neutrophils and mononuclear cells. Joints were examined grossly and radiographically, and synovial membrane specimens were submitted for histologic examination. Synovial fluid samples that were contaminated with blood and samples from joints with any gross, radiographic, or histologic abnormalities were excluded. RESULTS: 82 of the 208 synovial fluid samples were excluded because abnormalities were identified during physical examination; the volume of fluid obtained was insufficient for analysis; there was evidence of blood contamination; or the joint had gross, radiographic, or histologic abnormalities. Median WBC count for the remaining 126 synovial fluid samples was 91 cells/microL (96.4% mononuclear cells and 3.6% neutrophils); WBC count was not significantly different between left and right joint samples or between shoulder and stifle joint samples. Body weight was associated with synovial fluid WBC count, with WBC count increasing as body weight increased. Sixteen of the 52 (30%) cats had radiographic evidence of osteoarthritis involving at least 1 joint. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Results suggest that synovial fluid can be obtained reliably from shoulder and stifle joints in cats.     

Cytologic interpretation of canine cerebrospinal fluid samples with low total nucleated cell concentration,with and without blood contamination

Background: Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is potentially altered by iatrogenic blood contamination at the time of sampling due to the addition of blood‐associated leukocytes and protein. Objectives: The objective of this study was to assess whether protein concentration, neutrophil percentage, and the presence of activated macrophages, reactive lymphocytes, or eosinophils in CSF samples with low total nucleated cell concentration (TNCC) are affected by blood contamination or associated with central nervous system (CNS) disease. Methods: Case records from the Royal Veterinary College Diagnostic Laboratory were searched retrospectively for dogs with CSF having ≤5 TNCC/μL. TNCC, RBC, and protein concentrations; neutrophil percentage; and the presence of activated macrophages, reactive lymphocytes, and eosinophils were recorded. Results of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) also were recorded as a marker of CNS disease. Results: Of 906 cases evaluated, 106 (12%) had blood contamination (>500 RBCs/μL) in CSF. Protein concentration and neutrophil percentage were significantly higher and the presence of eosinophils was more likely in blood contaminated vs noncontaminated samples. Non‐blood‐contaminated samples with activated macrophages or reactive lymphocytes had higher protein concentrations and neutrophil percentages, and those with activated macrophages were more likely to have a positive finding on MRI. Conclusions: Protein concentration, neutrophil percentage, and the presence of eosinophils are significantly affected by blood contamination in canine CSF having low TNCC. Activated macrophages and reactive lymphocytes are not affected by blood contamination, however, and may be useful in identifying dogs with CNS abnormalities.     

Causes of erroneous white blood cell counts and differentials in clinically healthy young northern elephant seals (Mirounga angustirostris).

From 1993 to 1995, approximately 10% of the clinically healthy northern elephant seals (Mirounga angustirostris) at The Marine Mammal Center in California exhibited a large unexplained increase in their white blood cell (WBC) count. In these animals, WBC counts ranged from 28,780 to 125,000/mm3, with a mean of 50,087/mm3. Significant correlations between the leukocytosis and weight gain and day of admittance were identified, but no correlation existed between leukocytosis and general state of health, sex, length of stay, or diet. Bone marrow contamination of blood samples, erroneous automated leukocyte counts, and leukogram changes consistent with subclinical inflammation were the major factors contributing to the elevated WBC counts in these apparently clinically healthy animals.     

Hematologic reference intervals for koi (Cyprinus carpio), including blood cell morphology, cytochemistry, and ultrastructure

BACKGROUND: Hematologic data are used routinely in the health care of humans and domestic mammals. Similar data for fish are largely fragmentary or have not been collected. OBJECTIVES: The primary purpose of this study was to determine hematologic reference intervals for koi, an ornamental strain of the common carp (Cyprinus carpio). Secondarily, the morphology, cytochemical reactions, and ultrastructure of koi blood cells were characterized. METHODS: A CBC was performed manually on heparin-anticoagulated blood specimens using Natt and Herrick's diluent and a Neubauer-ruled hemacytometer. Leukocyte differential counts were done on Wright-Leishman- and Diff-Quik-stained blood smears. Cytochemical reactions of koi leukocytes were determined using commercial kits. Transmission electron microscopy was performed to characterize the ultrastructural features of koi blood cells. RESULTS: Hematologic reference intervals were established for healthy koi for PCV (30-34%), hemoglobin concentration (6.3-7.6 g/dL), RBC count (1.7-1.9 X 10(6)/ microL), WBC count (19.8-28.1 X 10(3)/ microL), RBC indices, and differential leukocyte counts. Lymphocytes were the predominant leukocyte (accounting for up to 80% of all leukocytes), whereas eosinophils were rare. Basophils were positive with PAS staining. Naphthol AS-D chloroacetate esterase activity was observed only in eosinophils. alpha-Naphthyl butyrate esterase and beta-glucuronidase activities were positive in monocytes. Some lymphocytes were reactive for alpha-naphthyl butyrate esterase and acid phosphatase activity. Ultrastructurally, leukocytes, erythrocytes, and thrombocytes were identified on the basis of cytoplasmic organelles and granule appearance. CONCLUSION: Hematologic reference intervals and knowledge of the cytochemical reactions and ultrastructural characteristics of koi leukocytes will help standardize hematologic studies in this species.     

Characteristics of cisternal cerebrospinal fluid associated with intracranial meningiomas in dogs: 56 cases (1985-2004)

OBJECTIVE: To determine CSF characteristics associated with intracranial meningiomas in dogs. DESIGN: Retrospective case series. ANIMALS: 56 dogs with intracranial meningiomas. PROCEDURES: Medical records of dogs with a histopathologic diagnosis of intracranial meningioma, in which CSF analysis had been performed, were reviewed. Information concerning total nucleated cell counts (TNCCs) and differential nucleated cell counts, RBC counts, and total protein concentration in CSF; seizure history and glucocorticoid administration; and location of meningiomas was recorded. RESULTS: TNCCs < 5 cells/microL were detected in 41 of 56 (73%) dogs; 5 of 56 (9%) dogs had TNCCs > 50 cells/microL. Analysis of CSF revealed predominantly neutrophilic pleocytosis in < 20% of dogs. There was a significant association between meningioma location (caudal portion of the cranial fossa or middle and rostral portion of the cranial fossae) and increased TNCCs (> or = 5 cells/microL). CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Results were significantly different from those routinely reported in the veterinary literature. Neutrophilic pleocytosis, especially with TNCCs > 50 cells/microL, was not typical in CSF samples from dogs with intracranial meningiomas. Neutrophilic pleocytosis may not be detected in CSF samples from dogs with meningiomas located within the middle or rostral portion of the cranial fossae.     

Comparison of a portable blood glucose meter analyzer with a benchtop point-of-care chemistry analyzer for measurement of blood glucose concentration in client-owned ferrets (Mustela putorius furo)

BackgroundHypoglycemia is common in pet ferrets (Mustela putorius furo) because of the high prevalence of insulinoma in this species. The objectives of this study were to evaluate agreement of a portable blood glucose meter (PBGM) with a benchtop point-of-care (POC) chemistry analyzer for measurement of blood glucose concentration in ferrets, and to assess the clinical impact of using a PBGM for blood glucose measurement. The benchtop POC analyzer was used as the reference analyzer (modified hexokinase method).MethodsGlucose concentration was measured from 82 blood samples from client-owned ferrets with the benchtop POC chemistry analyzer and the PBGM. Agreement and bias between measurements were assessed using the Bland-Altman method and a Passing-Bablok regression analysis. A modified Clarke error grid analysis was modelized to evaluate the clinical effect if the PBGM was used rather than the benchtop POC chemistry analyzer.ResultsGlucose values obtained with the PBGM were not in agreement with the benchtop POC chemistry analyzer, and it underestimated blood glucose concentration in many cases. However, variation was unpredictable (mean bias, -3.97 mg/dL; range, -52.2 to 64.8 mg/dL), with wide 95% LOA (-47.3 to 38.5 mg/dL). A Passing-Bablok linear regression analysis had a slope of 1.13 (95% confidence interval: 1.00–1.36), and an intercept of -20.78 (95% confidence interval: -38.92 to -9.90), highlighting presence of a proportional and a constant bias. Important clinical error would have occurred in 1% of cases with the PBGM.ConclusionUnpredictable variation of glucose results obtained with the PBGM could have an important impact on clinical decision making. Thus, the use of a benchtop POC analyzer using hexokinase method for measurement of blood glucose concentration should be favored in ferrets for rapid onsite result obtention.     

Effects of blood contamination of cerebrospinal fluid on western blot analysis for detection of antibodies against Sarcocystis neurona and on albumin quotient and immunoglobulin G index in horses.

OBJECTIVE: To determine effects of blood contamination on western blot (WB) analysis of CSF samples for detection of anti-Sarcocystis neurona antibodies, and on CSF albumin and IgG concentrations, albumin quotient (AQ), and IgG index in horses. DESIGN: Prospective in vitro study. SAMPLES: Blood with various degrees of immunoreactivity against S neurona was collected from 12 healthy horses. Cerebrospinal fluid without immunoreactivity against S neurona was harvested from 4 recently euthanatized horses. PROCEDURE: Blood was serially diluted with pooled nonimmunoreactive CSF so that final dilutions corresponded to 10(-3) to 100 microliters of blood/ml CSF, and WB analysis was performed on contaminated CSF samples. Number of RBC, albumin and IgG concentrations, AQ, and IgG index were also determined. RESULTS: Antibodies against S neurona were detected in CSF contaminated with 10(-3) microliters of strongly immunoreactive blood/ml. In CSF samples contaminated with 10 microliters of blood/ml, AQ remained within reference range. Volume of blood required to increase IgG index varied among blood samples and was primarily influenced by serum IgG concentrations. Number of RBC in contaminated samples was correlated with volume of blood added, but not with degree of immunoreactivity detected in contaminated CSF samples. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: During collection of CSF from horses, contamination with blood may introduce serum antibodies against S neurona at concentrations sufficient for detection by WB analysis, thus yielding false-positive results. When blood is moderately or strongly immunoreactive, the amount of contaminating albumin may be small enough as to not increase AQ above reference range. In these cases, AQ and IgG index should be interpreted with caution.     

Use of anti-coronavirus antibody testing of cerebrospinal fluid for diagnosis of feline infectious peritonitis involving the central nervous system in cats

OBJECTIVE: To assess the use of measuring anti-coronavirus IgG in CSF for the diagnosis of feline infectious peritonitis (FIP) involving the CNS in cats. DESIGN: Prospective study. SAMPLE POPULATION: CSF and serum samples from 67 cats. PROCEDURES: CSF and serum samples were allocated into 4 groups: cats with FIP involving the CNS (n = 10), cats with FIP not involving the CNS (13), cats with CNS disorders caused by diseases other than FIP (29), and cats with diseases other than FIP and not involving the CNS (15). Cerebrospinal fluid was evaluated for concentrations of erythrocytes, leukocytes, and total protein. Anti-coronavirus IgG was measured in CSF and serum by indirect immunofluorescence assay. RESULTS: CSF IgG (range of titers, 1:32 to 1:4,096) was detected in 12 cats, including 6 cats with neurologic manifestation of FIP, 4 cats with FIP not involving the CNS, and 2 cats with brain tumors. Cerebrospinal fluid IgG was detected only in cats with correspondingly high serum IgG titers (range, 1:4,096 to 1:16,384) and was positively correlated with serum IgG titers (r = 0.652; P < 0.01), but not with any other CSF parameter. Blood contamination of CSF resulted in < or = 333 erythrocytes/microL in cats with CSF IgG. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: The correlation between serum and CSF IgG and the fact that CSF IgG was detected only in strongly seropositive cats suggested that CSF anti-coronavirus IgG was derived from blood. Measurement of anti-coronavirus IgG in CSF was of equivocal clinical use.     

Clinical, cerebrospinal fluid, and histological data from twenty-seven cats with primary inflammatory disease of the central nervous system.

The purpose of this report is to present the clinical, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and histological data from 27 cats with inflammatory disease of the central nervous system (CNS). The cats were part of a study of 61 cats admitted to two university clinics over an eight-year period because of signs of CNS disease. The most frequent diseases were feline infectious peritonitis (FIP) (12/27) and suspected viral disease other than FIP (10/27). Typical CSF findings in cats with FIP were a protein concentration of greater than 2 g/L (200 mg/dL) and a white cell count of over 100 cells/microL, which consisted predominantly of neutrophils. In contrast, the CSF of cats with suspected viral disease had a protein concentration of less than 1 g/L (100 mg/dL) and a total white cell count of less than 50 cells/microL. In general, cats with FIP or suspected viral disease were less than four years of age. Neurological signs were usually multifocal in cats with FIP, but focal in cats with suspected viral disease. The CSF findings were variable in five other inflammatory diseases represented. Two cats with protozoan infection had normal CSF total cell counts but abnormal differential counts. The CSF findings were invaluable in differentiating FIP from other causes of inflammatory CNS disease.     

Differences in total protein concentration, nucleated cell count, and red blood cell count among sequential samples of cerebrospinal fluid from horses

OBJECTIVE: To examine total protein concentration and cell counts of sequentially collected samples of CSF to determine whether blood contamination decreases in subsequent samples and whether formulas used to correct nucleated cell count and total protein concentration are accurate. DESIGN: Case series. ANIMALS: 22 horses. PROCEDURE: For each horse, 3 or 4 sequential 2-ml samples of CSF were collected from the subarachnoid space in the lumbosacral region into separate syringes, and blood was obtained from the jugular vein. Total protein concentration, nucleated cell count, and RBC counts were determined in all samples. RESULTS: Among 3 sequential samples, total protein concentration and RBC count were significantly lower in samples 2 and 3, compared with sample 1. Nucleated cell count was significantly lower in sample 3, compared with sample 1. Among 4 sequential samples, total protein concentration and RBC count were significantly lower in samples 2, 3, and 4, compared with sample 1. Nucleated cell count was significantly lower in samples 3 and 4, compared with sample 1. For 3 correction formulas, significant differences in corrected values for nucleated cell count and total protein concentration were detected between sample 1 and sample 3 or 4. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE: Because iatrogenic blood contamination decreases in sequential CSF samples, a minimum of 3 samples should be collected before submitting the final sample for analysis. Formulas to correct nucleated cell count and total protein concentration are inaccurate and should not be used to correct for blood contamination in CSF samples.     

Composition and analysis of cerebrospinal fluid in clinically normal adult cattle.

Cerebrospinal fluid and serum were obtained from 16 clinically normal adult cows (11 dairy, 5 beef). Sodium, potassium, magnesium, total protein, and albumin concentrations, osmolality, and lactate dehydrogenase and creatine kinase activities, were quantified in CSF and serum. Total and differential cell counting, protein electrophoresis, and IgG quantification were performed on CSF. Statistical analyses of these variables, including mean, SEM, range, and 95% confidence intervals, were performed. Effects of blood contamination were evaluated, and were found to be negligible for all measured constituents. Correction factors for CSF creatine kinase and lactate dehydrogenase activities accounting for cellular contamination were developed. Total nucleated cell count was similar to counts in CSF of other species, but higher than values in healthy people. Differential leukocyte count in CSF was similar to that reported in CSF of other domestic animals: mostly lymphocytes, fewer monocytoid cells, and scant neutrophils. Cerebrospinal fluid protein concentration was higher than concentration reported for dogs, goats, and people, but was similar to values reported for horses. Beef cows had higher CSF total protein concentration than did dairy cows; also, beef cows had higher CSF gamma-globulin concentration. The concentration of sodium in CSF was slightly higher than the value in serum, and potassium concentration was lower than the value in serum. In contrast to studies of human beings, CSF osmolality was generally less than serum osmolality in the cows studied. Reference values for CSF electrolyte concentrations and osmolality are useful for diagnosis of salt poisoning and for assessment of the effects of fluid therapy. Magnesium concentration was lower in CSF, compared with serum.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)     

Comparative study of hematologic and plasma biochemical variables in Eastern Atlantic juvenile and adult nesting loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta)

Background: Plasma biochemical and hematologic variables are important in the management of endangered sea turtles, such as loggerheads. However, studies on blood biochemistry and hematology of loggerheads are limited, and different concentrations according to variable criteria have been reported. Objective: The purpose of this study was to establish and compare baseline plasma chemistry and hematology values in Eastern Atlantic juvenile and adult nesting loggerhead sea turtles (Caretta caretta). Methods: Blood samples were collected from 69 healthy juvenile loggerhead sea turtles after their rehabilitation in captivity, and from 34 adult nesting loggerheads after oviposition. Fresh blood was used for leukocyte differential count and PCV determination. Heparinized blood was used for RBC and WBC counts. Plasma biochemical concentrations were measured using an automated biochemical analyzer. For the comparative study, nonparametric statistical analysis was done using the Mann–Whitney U‐test. Results: Minimum, maximum, and median concentrations were obtained for 14 hematologic and 15 plasma chemistry variables. Statistically significant differences between juvenile and adult turtles were found for PCV; RBC, WBC, and leukocyte differential counts; total protein, albumin, globulins, calcium, triglycerides, glucose, total cholesterol and urea concentrations; and lactate dehydrogenase activity. Conclusions: Age, size, and reproductive status cause important variations in the hematologic and plasma biochemical results of loggerheads. The reference values obtained in this study may be used as a standard profile, useful for veterinary surgeons involved in sea turtle conservation.