Magnetic resonance imaging findings of neuroaxonal dystrophy in a papillon puppy

A 3.5-month-old papillon puppy was brought to our clinic with chief complaints of progressive quadriparesis, ataxia and head tremor. Lesions in the cerebellum, brainstem and spinal cord were suspected on the basis of a neurological examination. No abnormality was found in a clinicopathological examination or on magnetic resonance imaging. On the basis of these results differential diagnoses including an inflammatory disease, a degenerative condition or a storage disorder were considered. Subsequently, the signs progressed and glossoplegia and dysphagia developed at six months of age. At a second magnetic resonance imaging, severe atrophy of the entire brain was found. After these examinations, the puppy was euthanased and histopathologically diagnosed with neuroaxonal dystrophy. Because magnetic resonance imaging detected abnormal features that were characteristic of neuroaxonal dystrophy in this case, we speculate that magnetic resonance imaging can assist in the pre-mortem diagnosis of this disease.     

Incomplete caudal duplication in a puppy: gross and radiological observations

Caudal duplication is a rare type of conjoined twinning. The aim of this case report is to describe a case of caudal duplication in a male crossbreed puppy. The puppy was macroscopically and radiographically examined after death. External features included a supernumerary limb projecting from the perineum, complete lack of tail, anal atresia, double penis and absence of scrotal sacs. Internal examination showed anomalies involving the intestine and the urinary system. At x-ray examination, the supernumerary limb showed features similar to that of the normal right hindlimb but showed absence of fibula and tibia and presence of three metatarsi and phalanges. The authors discuss the pathogenic mechanisms of this condition, infrequently reported in veterinary practice, pointing out the importance of embryonic duplications commonly associated with dystocia.     

Pituitary dwarfism in German Shepherd Dogs

Eleven German Shepherd dogs with pituitary dwarfism were examined. They were severely stunted in growth and possessed abnormal hair coats with persistence of the soft puppy (lanugo) coat and symmetrical areas of alopecia. Various other physical defects were often present in affected dogs. Detailed hormonal studies demonstrated a severe deficiency in growth hormone in all five cases so evaluated. A decrease in somatomedin activity was present in three of these cases. Changes in growth plates epiphyses and ossification centres were apparent on radiographic examination of four of the eleven dogs. Epiphyseal dysgenesis was confirmed histologically in two of these cases. Of the six brains which were examined post mortem, four showed large cystic lesions involving the adenohypo–physis and two had pituitary hypoplasia with virtual absence of adenohy–pophyseal tissue.     

Clinical Signs of Tumors Affecting the Rostral Cerebrum in 43 Dogs

The clinical and pathologic features of 43 dogs with neoplasia of the rostral cerebrum were reviewed. Primary brain tumors included meningioma, astrocytoma, neuroblastoma, oligodendroglioma, and ependymoma. Other tumors that secondarily affected these areas included solitary hemangiosarcoma, nasal neuroendocrine carcinoma, nasal cell adenocarcinoma, nasal squamous cell carcinoma, and nasal neurofibrosarcoma. Older dogs were usually affected (mean, 10 years), and meningioma was the most frequent tumor type. Thirty-one dogs (72% of total) had a late-onset (greater than 5 years of age) of either generalized seizures or behavior abnormalities, or both, with an initially normal neurologic examination. In these 31 dogs, a mean time of 78 days (range, 2 to 400 days) elapsed from the onset of seizures or behavior change to the detection of a persistently abnormal neurologic examination. In all 43 dogs, the time from the detection of neurologic deficits to death or euthanasia and necropsy ranged from 1 to 63 days (mean, 13 days). On the basis of this review, it appears that dogs with late-onset seizures or behavior change, or both, should be suspected of having tumors involving the rostral cerebrum, despite the absence of persistent neurologic deficits commonly associated with cerebral tumors. Further, the onset of abnormalities in the neurologic examination and the time of death seem to occur within predictable time periods.     

Pediatric neurology of the dog and cat.

The neurologic examination in the puppy or kitten can be a challenging experience. Understanding the development of behavior reflexes and movement in puppies and kittens enables us to overcome some of these challenges and to recognize the neurologically abnormal patient. Subsequently,we can identify the neuroanatomic localization and generate a differential diagnosis list. This article first reviews the pediatric neurologic examination and then discusses diseases unique to these individuals.     

Hereditary encephalomyelopathy and polyneuropathy in an Alaskan husky

An Alaskan husky puppy was examined for a neurologic disease which began at six weeks of age with generalised paresis that progressed resulting in recumbency by 18 weeks. Thoracic limbs primarily exhibited lower motor neuron signs that included distal muscle atrophy and persistent elbow and carpal flexion that resisted manual extension. Pelvic limb signs primarily exhibited upper motor neuron and general proprioceptive deficits, but also included lower motor neuron signs. Abnormal vocalisation suggested a laryngeal paresis. Histopathologic lesions included a diffuse axonopathy and secondary demyelination in the nerves of the limbs and larynx and a similar bilaterally symmetrical degeneration in the spinal cord white matter suggestive of a dying back axonopathy. In addition, a degenerative process was present in nuclei in the brain stem and cerebellum. Recognition of this disease through clinical and pathologic examination in other related Alaskan Huskies suggested an autosomal recessive inherited disorder.     

A case of dumb rabies and trypanosomiasis in an eight-week-old puppy

An eight-week-old male puppy affected with trypanosomiasis and dumb rabies was presented at the University of Nigeria Veterinary Hospital. The dog had a septic wound on the side of the face. The clinical signs suggested trypanosomiasis and this diagnosis was confirmed by laboratory examination. After treatment with Berenil and antibiotics, the puppy apparently recovered, but a week later became anorectous and recumbent. Dumb rabies was suspected and the dog died in a quarantine kennel less than 24 hours later. Negri bodies were detected in brain smears from the dog and a mouse inoculation test was performed to confirm the diagnosis. Dumb rabies poses serious public health hazards to dog owners and their families, as well as to those occupationally exposed to dogs.     

DYSPLASIA EPIPHYSEALIS HEMIMELICA IN A BOXER PUPPY

A Boxer puppy had an unusual dysplastic lesion of the distal epiphysis of the left femur. Biopsy and CT examination were performed. A diagnosis of dysplasia epiphysealis hemimelica (DEH) was made. To the investigators knowledge, this condition has not been described before in animals. DEH is a growth disorder involving preferentially the medial compartment of the lower limbs, and it is associated with epiphyseal hypertrophy and delayed mineralization.     

Central corneal dermoid in a Labrador retriever puppy

An eight-week-old, male Labrador retriever puppy was presented with an abnormal appearance of the left cornea, observed after the eyelids opened in the second week of life. Ocular examination showed a large central dermoid of the left cornea. The dermoid was excised by superficial keratectomy, and healing was uneventful. The dermoid was classified as a Mann's second type. To the authors' knowledge, a Mann's second type corneal dermoid has not previously been reported in a dog.     

Unusually rapid growth and adult stature in an American hairless terrier puppy

A puppy was evaluated for rapid growth and large stature. Extensive diagnostic evaluation suggested a growth hormone independent disorder. As the sole detected abnormality was elevated leptin concentration, an obesity syndrome causing leptin resistance was speculated to explain the puppy's condition but was not confirmed. Except for large body size, the puppy remained clinically normal.     

CHARACTERIZATION OF SEVERE SMALL AIRWAY DISEASE IN A PUPPY USING COMPUTED TOMOGRAPHY

A young Golden Retriever dog developed severe respiratory distress following an initial clinical diagnosis of infectious tracheobronchitis. Severe expiratory flow limitation, associated with exertional respiratory distress and hypoxemia was present. Thoracic images obtained with conventional radiography were characterized by hyperinflation and abnormal bronchial and alveolar patterns. Computed tomography was performed and in conjunction with pulmonary functional changes was diagnostic of small airway disease. The dog was treated with a variety of antibiotics, anti-inflammatory agents, and antitussives, but the clinical signs worsened and the puppy was euthanized. Pathologic examination confirmed severe small airway disease, with emphysema and bronchiolitis.     

Citrobacter freundii septicemia in two dogs.

A 4-month-old Maltese puppy and a 7.5-year-old Collie were diagnosed with septicemia associated with Citrobacter freundii. The puppy died soon, after developing weakness and mucohemorragic diarrhea. The Collie had immune-mediated hemolytic anemia and thrombocytopenia and was treated with immunosuppressive drugs before being euthanized. Gross examination of the puppy revealed mucohemorrhagic intestinal contents. Focal necrotic hepatitis, fibrinous peritonitis, interstitial pneumonia, and hemorrhagic gastrointestinal contents were observed in the older dog. Histologically, there was a diffuse, moderate, histiocytic meningitis in the puppy and a focal fibrinonecrotic hepatitis in the adult dog. Lesions in both dogs contained numerous gram-negative rods. Citrobacter freudii is a potential cause of monomicrobic bacteraemia-septicemia in puppies or immunocompromized adult dogs.The gastrointestinal tract is probably the main site of entry.     

Rabies in a 10-week-old puppy

A 10-week-old, male, border collie-cross puppy was examined for an acute onset of unilateral vestibular signs. Neurologic deterioration was rapid over the next 12 hours and the puppy was euthanized. Rabies was diagnosed by histopathologic and immunohistochemical examination.     

Basset Hound thrombopathia in a 4‐month‐old female Ba‐Shar (Sharp Asset)

A 3‐month‐old female Basset Hound‐Shar Pei mix puppy (Ba‐Shar or Sharp Asset) presented with oral bleeding due to a cracked molar. On physical exam, an aural hematoma was also noted that the owner indicated was chronic. The puppy was hospitalized for over 24 h until the bleeding was brought under control. At 4 months of age, the puppy again presented with oral bleeding due to loss of deciduous teeth and was hospitalized until bleeding was controlled. Coagulation screening tests, platelet numbers, and von Willebrand Factor antigen levels were within reference limits. Based on the presence of platelet‐type bleeding in the face of normal screening test results, samples were submitted for DNA testing for Basset Hound thrombopathia. The puppy tested as affected for the calcium and diacylglycerol regulated guanine nucleotide exchange factor I (CalDAG‐GEFI) mutation causing this disorder. This is the first time thrombopathia has been diagnosed in a “designer” breed.     

Spina bifida in a German shepherd puppy

A case of spina bifida in a German shepherd puppy is described. The puppy, which was dead when delivered by caesarian section, had an obvious cleft in the skin and soft tissues overlying an area of kyphosis in the lumbar region. Radiographic examination and bone staining techniques revealed an extensive bony defect with a failure in approximation of the vertebral laminae dorsally from T3 to Ca5.     

Puppy behavior at the veterinary clinic: A pilot study

New owners usually have many questions regarding their puppy’s behavior during the first physical examination. The aim of this pilot study was to investigate the behaviors expressed by puppies when exposed to a veterinary clinic environment. The puppies’ response to physical examination was also studied. A total of 102 puppies, between 8 and 16 weeks of age and of various breeds, were filmed during a standardized physical examination at the veterinary clinic. The study included an observation of the puppy free on the floor (FF) followed by a physical examination on a table (PET) and various manipulations on the floor (MF). During FF, the behavioral categories recorded were: activity, exploration, facial expression, puppy solicitation of interaction with the veterinarian, vocalization, and others. During PET and MF, the type of interaction with the veterinarian, facial expression, and ear position were examined. The study revealed some significant differences between behaviors exhibited by puppies according to their sex, age, and estimated adult weight. Behaviors generally varied widely among puppies, but some individuals showed “extreme behaviors” (outliers) compared to the median puppy. These behaviors included more active avoidance, more locomotion, more panting, or more vocalization, which were often correlated across contexts. These findings suggest that even at a young age, some puppies can be differentiated from others by specific behaviors. Whether or not these individuals are at higher risk of developing behavioral disorders as adults remains to be investigated.     

Multisystemic Chromatolytic Neuronal Degeneration in Cairn Terriers: A Case With Generalized Cataplectic Episodes

Multisystemic chromatolytic neuronal degeneration, a newly recognized disease of Cairn Terriers, is described in a second affected North American puppy. In this puppy, the early onset of hind limb weakness at 11 weeks and rapid development of signs of diffuse CNS involvement were distinctive. Signs of cerebellar dysfunction were prominent, but bouts of cataplectic collapse in this puppy constituted the most distinguishing clinical feature. Although electroencephalograph (EEG) recordings lacked a true rapid eye movement (REM) pattern during cataplectic episodes, cervical electromyograph (EMG) potentials ceased or diminished, and imipramine injection was associated with arousal. Postmortem studies revealed that chromatolytic degeneration was very widespread, affecting many neuronal populations in the brain and spinal cord as well as neurons in sensory ganglia. Although the pattern of chromatolysis varied among affected perikarya, chromatolysis was consistently related to dispersion and loss of ribosomes. In this puppy, as opposed to six studied previously, thoracolumbar myelomalacia also occurred symmetrically in the dorsal horns and adjoining funicular white matter. The metabolic derangement underlying this chromatolytic neuronal degeneration and myelomalacia remains unknown.     

Confirmed clinical Neospora caninum infection in a boxer puppy from Argentina

Generalized neosporosis was diagnosed in a 2-month-old boxer puppy. The dog had a history of progressive paralysis and muscle atrophy, followed by cervical weakness, stiff jaws and dysphagia. The dog had a 1:12,800 antibody titer for Neospora caninum and was negative for antibodies to Toxoplasma gondii by the indirect fluorescent antibody test (IFAT). After euthanasia a complete necropsy was carried out. The puppy had a megaesophagus. Microscopically, tachyzoites and tissue cysts were observed in histologic brain sections. Severe myositis was observed in esophagus and striated muscle sections and several groups of tachyzoites were associated with these lesions. Immunohistochemically, parasites in the brain and striated muscle reacted to anti-N. caninum antiserum. Western blot analysis allowed the identification of three major and four minor antigens of N. caninum tachyzoites corresponding to 30, 37, 45-kDa and 28, 29, 43, 47 and 67-kDa bands, respectively. Cerebral homogenate of the dog was inoculated into four Mongolian gerbils (Meriones unguiculatus). Forty-nine days after inoculation, all the gerbils had positive IFAT titers to N. caninum (1:200, 1:400, 1:100 and 1:400). Genomic DNA was isolated from the brain, lung and striated muscle from the puppy and from the brain of one of the inoculated gerbils. The N. caninum specific primer pair Np 6/21 produced 328 bp amplicons on electrophoretic gels. This is the first confirmed clinical case of generalized canine neosporosis in Argentina.     

Lung surfactant composition in puppies dying of fading puppy complex

The composition of surfactant from the lungs of neonatal puppies dying from 'fadding puppy complex' differs from that of neonates dying from other causes. Surfactant from 'fading puppies' contained significantly less phosphatidylcholine than did the surfactant from other puppies, and therefore abnormal surfactant may be implicated in fading puppy complex. Abnormal surfactant has been implicated in the pathogenesis of sudden infant death syndrome in human infants.     

A fungal granuloma of the frontal sinus in a llama

A 12-year-old, castrated male llama (Lama glama) presented with a 12-cm diameter cranial mass. Computed tomography and postmortem examination revealed that the mass invaded the calvarium and compressed the rostral part of the brain. Light microscopic examination confirmed a fungal granuloma.