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Veterinary Medicine (veterinary + medicine)
Selected AbstractsArthroscopic laser extirpation of metacarpophalangeal synovial pad proliferation in eleven horsesEQUINE VETERINARY JOURNAL, Issue 3 2001D. J. MURPHY Summary A new surgical technique for treatment of chronic metacarpophalangeal synovial pad proliferation in the horse and the findings and long-term follow-up from 11 clinical cases are described. The medical records of all equine lameness cases attributed to metacarpophalangeal synovial pad proliferation admitted to the College of Veterinary Medicine at Cornell University (1991,1996) were reviewed and all those treated surgically by laser extirpation were included in this study. Retrieved data included subject details, preoperative lameness, ultrasonography, radiography and synovial fluid evaluations and lesion histopathology. Lesions were ablated using a CO2 or a Nd:YAG laser intra-articularly with arthroscopic guidance. Long-term follow-up was provided by telephone conversation with owners or trainers. All horses had fetlock joint effusion and were lame at presentation. Mean synovial pad thickness measured ultrasonographically was 9.0 mm (range 6,15 mm). Seven horses (64%) had radiographic evidence of remodelling of the dorsal cortex of distal McIII and 3 horses (27%) had concurrent dorsal proximal P1 fractures. No postoperative complications were noted. All 11 horses returned to training within 90 days of surgery without recurrence of the lesion(s). Laser extirpation of metacarpophalangeal synovial pad proliferation using arthroscopic guidance provided a rapid, safe and efficient method for surgical removal of such lesions without complications or recurrence. This surgical technique provides a suitable alternative to more conventional treatments for chronic metacarpophalangeal synovial pad proliferation in horses, particularly for removal of very large, fibrotic masses. [source] THE END-PERMIAN MASS EXTINCTION WAS SYNCHRONOUS COINCIDED WITH THE EVOLUTION OF TOXIC ALGAEJOURNAL OF PHYCOLOGY, Issue 2001Article first published online: 24 SEP 200 Lee, R. E.1 & Kugrens, P.2 1Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523; 2Department of Biology, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Co 80523 USA The cause of the end-Permian mass extinction, the greatest of all mass extinctions, is one of the most intriguing mysteries in the history of life. The end-Permian mass extinction was primarily a marine event, resulting principally in the elimination of sessile filter-feeding organisms. Based on two methods, molecular clocks and correlation with ancient atmospheric CO2, the algae derived from secondary endosymbioses are believed to have originated in the middle to late Permian. All of the toxic marine algae in today's oceans are derived from secondary endosymbioses. Therefore it appears likely that the end-Permian extinction was due to the evolution of toxic algae in the phytoplankton of late-Permian seas. Sieving of the toxic algae in the phytoplankton likely resulted in the decline and eventual elimination of a large portion of the Paleozoic fauna during the end-Permian mass extinction. [source] Canine leishmaniasis with nephrotic syndrome and aortic and caudal vena cava thromboembolismJOURNAL OF VETERINARY EMERGENCY AND CRITICAL CARE, Issue 5 2008Nuno Félix DVM Abstract Objective , To describe a case of leishmaniasis associated with nephrotic syndrome and aortic and caudal vena cava thrombosis in a dog. Case Summary , A 3-year-old male Boxer was referred to the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Lisbon, with vomiting, polyuria, polydipsia, lethargy, anorexia, and weight loss. On admission, the dog was thin, quiet, and dehydrated. Initial laboratory abnormalities were compatible with a diagnosis of leishmaniasis (confirmed by serology and bone marrow aspirate), and nephrotic syndrome. Three days later, the animal developed lumbar pain, paraparesis, and absent femoral pulses. Coagulation tests showed a marked reduction in antithrombin (AT) and a mild increase in serum fibrinogen concentration. A diagnosis of thromboembolism was made. In spite of treatment aimed at controlling the primary condition and decreasing further thrombus formation, necrosis developed in the distal right pelvic limb and the nail beds of the left pelvic limb. Against medical advice, medication was stopped and, 15 days later, the dog returned to the hospital, showing extensive necrosis of both pelvic limb extremities. Euthanasia was performed at the owner's request. Necropsy showed a thrombus localized at the distal aorta and extending into the right iliac artery, and an additional thrombus extending from both femoral veins onto the caudal vena cava. New or Unique Information Provided , Thromboembolic disease is rare in dogs with leishmaniasis with nephrotic syndrome. This case suggests that a marked decrease in AT and a mild increase in serum fibrinogen may elicit a hypercoagulable state in these patients. [source] Epidural Catheter Analgesia in Dogs and Cats: Technique and Review of 182 Cases (1991,1999)JOURNAL OF VETERINARY EMERGENCY AND CRITICAL CARE, Issue 2 2001Bernie D. Hansen DVM, DACVECC Abstract Objective: To characterize the indications and techniques for catheterization of the epidural space to treat pain in dogs and cats in a veterinary teaching hospital intensive care unit, and describe the analgesic regimens used in those patients. To provide a detailed description of the technique of epidural catheterization in companion animals. Design: Retrospective case series and clinical practice review. Setting: The Veterinary Teaching Hospital at the North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine. Animals: Records from 160 dogs and 22 cats that had epidural catheters placed were identified. Interventions: Epidural catheterization for the purpose of providing analgesia for a variety of surgical and medical disorders was performed on both awake and anesthetized patients. Measurements and main results: The most frequently used analgesic agents were preservative-free morphine and bupivacaine. 2The range of duration of catheter dwell time was 1.3,332 hours, with a mean duration of 50 hours and a median of 39 hours. Suspicion of catheter malpositioning prompted radiographic imaging of the catheter in 44 patients, and malpositioning was confirmed in 6 of those. Catheter tip positioning was recorded in 46 patients. The tip was located at L3-L6 in 16, and T5-L3 in 30. Twenty-seven of those 30 patients were catheterized to treat pain associated with thoracotomy, forelimb amputation, pancreatitis, or peritonitis. Fifty-one (28%) patients received no analgesics beyond those provided by the epidural catheter. Conclusions: Epidural administration of analgesia appeared to provide significant pain relief and was adequate as a sole analgesic treatment in some patients. Serious complications in these critically ill animals appeared to be uncommon. (J Vet Emerg Crit Care 2001; 11(2): 95,103) [source] The Coxib NSAIDs: Potential Clinical and Pharmacologic Importance in Veterinary MedicineJOURNAL OF VETERINARY INTERNAL MEDICINE, Issue 5 2005Mary Sarah Bergh Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are used to control acute and chronic pain as well as to manage oncologic and neurologic diseases in human and veterinary patients. Despite ongoing research and efforts to improve the safety and efficacy of existing drugs, adverse effects such as gastrointestinal irritation, renal and hepatic toxicity, interference with hemostasis, and reproductive problems persist. The true incidence of NSAID-induced adverse effects in animals is unknown, but is likely underestimated, because cats and dogs may be more sensitive than humans to NSAIDs due to alterations in drug metabolism, absorption, and enterohepatic recirculation. NSAIDs produce both analgesia and toxic adverse effects primarily by inhibiting cyclooxygenase (COX), thereby decreasing the production of prostaglandins that signal inflammation and pain as well as mediate physiologic functions such as platelet aggregation, gastric protection, and electrolyte balance in the kidney. The presence of at least 2 COX isoforms may account for variability in NSAID efficacy and toxicity both within and among species. This paper reviews and evaluates the published literature on the safety, pharmacology, uses, and complications of a subclass of COX-1,sparing drugs, the coxibs, in veterinary medicine. Coxibs and other COX-1,sparing drugs provide a clinically useful improvement over traditional NSAIDs, but data are incomplete and more in vivo species-specific, target-tissue, and clinical studies are needed. [source] Editorial: Towards Evidence-Based Veterinary MedicineJOURNAL OF VETERINARY INTERNAL MEDICINE, Issue 2 2000Bruce W. Keene DVM No abstract is available for this article. [source] Comparison of bovine in vivo bioavailability of two sulfamethazine oral boluses exhibiting different in vitro dissolution profilesJOURNAL OF VETERINARY PHARMACOLOGY & THERAPEUTICS, Issue 6 2006M. N. MARTINEZ The bolus (or oblet) is a dosage form that can be used for the oral administration of pharmaceutical compounds to ruminating species. Unlike traditional tablets, oral boluses may contain quantities of drug on the order of grams rather than milligrams. Due to its size, it is only recently that USP-like in vitro dissolution methods have been developed for this dosage form. However, whether or not these dissolution tests can predict product in vivo performance has yet to be determined. The importance of this issue is apparent when the U.S. Food and Drug Administration Center for Veterinary Medicine is faced with the decision of whether to require additional in vivo bioequivalence study data to support the approval of changes in product chemistry or manufacturing method. The current study was undertaken to determine whether an in vivo/in vitro correlation can be established for bovine sulfamethazine oral boluses and to acquire insight into the magnitude of changes in in vitro product performance that can occur before corresponding changes are seen in in vivo blood level profiles. Based upon the results of this investigation, it is concluded that marked changes in in vitro sulfamethazine bolus performance can be tolerated before resulting in altered in vivo blood level profiles. However, the data also suggest that rumenal absorption may occur for some compounds. Therefore the degree to which variation in product in vitro dissolution profiles can be tolerated may be compound specific. [source] Meeting the challenges of implementing good laboratory practices compliance in a university settingQUALITY ASSURANCE JOURNAL, Issue 1 2002Sandra Hancock Abstract The number of university laboratories participating in good laboratory practices (GLP) studies is on the rise, as evidenced by the increase in university personnel that have joined the Society of Quality Assurance (SQA) during the past decade. However, the road to GLP compliance in the university setting has significant challenges. To evaluate how universities have implemented and managed GLP studies, a survey was conducted of SQA members with a university address. The results are described in this article. At Virginia-Maryland Regional College of Veterinary Medicine (VMRCVM), we have been participating in GLP studies since 1989. Studies are conducted by research or clinical faculty members, with quality assurance (QA) provided by the College Quality Assurance Unit. Since the inception of our GLP Program, VMRCVM has made significant progress toward meeting the challenges of regulatory compliance. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [source] The End of Conventional Veterinary MedicineAUSTRALIAN VETERINARY JOURNAL, Issue 3 2008Bruce Ferguson DVM No abstract is available for this article. [source] Dokumentation und Information: The 5th International Symposium of the History of Medicine, Pharmacy and Veterinary Medicine, K?niggr?tz/Hradec Králové, 26.,29.BERICHTE ZUR WISSENSCHAFTSGESCHICHTE, Issue 4 2002Juni 200 [source] APVMA's Annual Report of Adverse Experiences for Veterinary Medicines 2003AUSTRALIAN VETERINARY JOURNAL, Issue 9 2004PJ Dagg No abstract is available for this article. [source] Veterinary medicines and the environmentENVIRONMENTAL TOXICOLOGY & CHEMISTRY, Issue 4 2005Alistair Boxall No abstract is available for this article. [source] Overview of the use of antimicrobials for the treatment of bacterial infections in horsesEQUINE VETERINARY EDUCATION, Issue 8 2008E. F. Haggett Summary Use of antimicrobial drugs is central to the treatment of primary and secondary bacterial infection in horses. When selecting an antimicrobial to treat confirmed or suspected bacterial infection multiple factors should be considered, including: the likely infectious agent; distribution and dosage of selected drugs; mechanisms of action; and potential side effects. Many of these issues will be covered in subsequent articles in this series. The aim of this paper is to aid the clinician in the rational selection of antimicrobials by reviewing the mode of action, spectrum of activity, pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, indications and potential side effects of the main classes of antimicrobial drugs. Extralabel use of drugs is common in veterinary medicine due to a lack of licensed products. This increases the importance of a thorough understanding of antimicrobials and their possible adverse effects. [source] Molecular basis of bacterial resistance to chloramphenicol and florfenicolFEMS MICROBIOLOGY REVIEWS, Issue 5 2004Stefan Schwarz Abstract Chloramphenicol (Cm) and its fluorinated derivative florfenicol (Ff) represent highly potent inhibitors of bacterial protein biosynthesis. As a consequence of the use of Cm in human and veterinary medicine, bacterial pathogens of various species and genera have developed and/or acquired Cm resistance. Ff is solely used in veterinary medicine and has been introduced into clinical use in the mid-1990s. Of the Cm resistance genes known to date, only a small number also mediates resistance to Ff. In this review, we present an overview of the different mechanisms responsible for resistance to Cm and Ff with particular focus on the two different types of chloramphenicol acetyltransferases (CATs), specific exporters and multidrug transporters. Phylogenetic trees of the different CAT proteins and exporter proteins were constructed on the basis of a multisequence alignment. Moreover, information is provided on the mobile genetic elements carrying Cm or Cm/Ff resistance genes to provide a basis for the understanding of the distribution and the spread of Cm resistance , even in the absence of a selective pressure imposed by the use of Cm or Ff. [source] Efficacy of chemical and botanical over-the-counter pediculicides available in Brazil, and off-label treatments, against head lice ex vivoINTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DERMATOLOGY, Issue 3 2010André Asenov MD Background, There is a lack of reliable data on the efficacy of over-the-counter (OTC) pediculicides in Brazil. Methods, We performed ex vivo assays of eight marketed pediculicides: 1% permethrin (Kwell®, Clean Hair®, Keltrina®, Nedax®), 0.02% deltamethrin (Deltacid®, Pediderm®), and two "natural" products (Piolho e Lêndea®, Pilogenio®). We also tested 5% permethrin (Keltrina Plus®), traditional home remedies and an ivermectin-based product used in veterinary medicine. Head lice (49,52 per group) were immersed in the compound for 3 min and washed after 20 min to simulate the typical in vivo treatment protocol. Lice were examined for activity up to 24 h using stringent criteria for survival. Results, Of the permethrin containing products, highest mortality was observed with Kwell® and Clean Hair® (97.9 and 90.2% after 4 h). Keltrina®, Nedax®, Keltrina Plus®, and the two deltamethrin-based products showed only a low efficacy of <60% after 4 h. With exception of pure coconut oil (80% mortality after 4 h), home remedies showed a very low efficacy, and both marketed products killed few lice. The ivermectin-based product caused a mortality of 100% after 4 h. Conclusions, Most Brazilian OTC products did not show a satisfactory efficacy against head lice. Resistance may be present. Ivermectin and coconut oil are promising compounds for topical treatment. Laboratory-based tests should be used to assess resistance patterns and to identify formulations of the active ingredient that increase the efficacy. Standardized testing should be performed before a product is licensed for head lice treatment. [source] Role of the zoo veterinarian in the conservation of captive and free-ranging wildlifeINTERNATIONAL ZOO YEARBOOK, Issue 1 2007S. L. DEEM The challenges to execute wildlife conservation projects successfully have become more complex as anthropogenic changes continue to stress the planet, changing wild lands. As the wild becomes less so, more species are placed in captivity to improve their chances of long-term survival, while concurrently management (and medicine) for free-ranging wildlife has become increasingly important. A variety of disciplines, including veterinary medicine, is now recognized as key to wildlife conservation. Although veterinarians have been involved in conservation for decades, it is only recently that their role has become more appreciated in the larger conservation community. This realization of the contributions of veterinarians has occurred at a time when disease has been recognized as significantly impacting species' conservation both in situ and ex situ. Today, veterinarians work with captive and free-ranging animals to prevent and/or treat diseases that threaten species' survival. Most of these diseases are associated with the increasing human footprint. In this paper, I present wildlife health in today's world and the zoo veterinarian's role in wildlife conservation. [source] Zoonotic viral diseases and the frontier of early diagnosis, control and preventionJOURNAL OF INTERNAL MEDICINE, Issue 5 2006J. L. HEENEY Abstract. Public awareness of the human health risks of zoonotic infections has grown in recent years. Currently, concern of H5N1 flu transmission from migratory bird populations has increased with foci of fatal human cases. This comes on the heels of other major zoonotic viral epidemics in the last decade. These include other acute emerging or re-emerging viral diseases such as severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS), West-Nile virus, Ebola virus, monkeypox, as well as the more inapparent insidious slow viral and prion diseases. Virus infections with zoonotic potential can become serious killers once they are able to establish the necessary adaptations for efficient human-to-human transmission under circumstances sufficient to reach epidemic proportions. The monitoring and early diagnosis of these potential risks are overlapping frontiers of human and veterinary medicine. Here, current viral zoonotics and evolving threats are reviewed. [source] Fluoroquinolone efflux mediated by ABC transportersJOURNAL OF PHARMACEUTICAL SCIENCES, Issue 9 2008Ana I. Alvarez Abstract Quinolones and fluoroquinolones are broad spectrum bactericidal drugs, which are widely used in both human and veterinary medicine. These drugs can quite easily enter cells and are often used to treat intracellular pathogens. Some fluoroquinolones have been reported to undergo efflux, which could explain their low bioavailability. There is a growing need to understand resistance mechanisms to quinolones, involving for instance mutations or the action of efflux pumps. Several members of the ATP-binding cassette (ABC) drug efflux transporter family (MDR, MRP, ABCG2) significantly affect the pharmacokinetic disposition of quinolones. Active secretory mechanisms common to all fluoroquinolones have been suggested, as well as competition between fluoroquinolones at transporter sites. For grepafloxacin and its metabolites, MRP2 has been demonstrated to mediate biliary excretion. However, MDR1 is responsible for grepafloxacin intestinal secretion. Recently it has been shown that ciprofloxacin and enrofloxacin are efficiently transported ABCG2 substrates which are actively secreted into milk. It appears that multiple ABC transporters contribute to the overall secretion of fluoroquinolones. The objective of this work is to review the recent advances in insights into ABC transporters and their effects on fluoroquinolone disposition and resistance including data on drug secretion into milk. © 2008 Wiley-Liss, Inc. and the American Pharmacists Association J Pharm Sci 97:3483,3493, 2008 [source] Cutaneous sterile granulomas/pyogranulomas, leishmaniasis and mycobacterial infectionsJOURNAL OF SMALL ANIMAL PRACTICE, Issue 11 2008D. Santoro Cutaneous "sterile" granulomas represent a group of uncommon skin disorders of unknown aetiopathogenesis. Many diseases are included in this group (for example, sterile granuloma/pyogranuloma syndrome and reactive histiocytosis). The definition of sterile is based on the exclusion of other possible aetiological agents (for example, microorganisms or foreign body). Many techniques are used to rule out a microbial aetiology including cytology, histology, immunohistochemistry and culture. However, some organisms are "fastidious" and difficult to culture or to identify with routine methods, and molecular studies are necessary. This is particularly true for mycobacteria (for example, canine leproid granuloma syndrome) and Leishmania. Recently, studies in human and veterinary medicine have proved the presence of microorganisms (mycobacteria and Leishmania) using a polymerase chain reaction technique in specimens previously diagnosed as sterile. Therefore, it is very important, with the development of new technologies, to use a multidisciplinary diagnostic approach to definitively rule out any microorganism before declaring a disease sterile. [source] Cognitive dysfunction and the neurobiology of ageing in catsJOURNAL OF SMALL ANIMAL PRACTICE, Issue 10 2007D. Gunn-Moore With improvements in nutrition and veterinary medicine the life expectancy of pet cats is increasing. Accompanying this growing geriatric population there are increasing numbers of cats with signs of apparent senility. A recent study suggests that 28 per cent of pet cats aged 11 to 14 years develop at least one geriatric onset behavioural problem, and this increases to over 50 per cent for cats of 15 years of age or older. While behavioural changes may result from systemic illness, organic brain disease or true behavioural problems, the possibility of age-related cognitive dysfunction is often overlooked. Studies have revealed a number of changes in the brains of geriatric cats that showed signs of cognitive dysfunction, and potential causes include vascular insufficiency leading to hypoxia, increased free radical damage and the deposition of ,-amyloid plaques and/or the modification of other proteins. By recognising the importance of behavioural changes in old cats, investigating them fully for potentially treatable medical conditions, and instigating dietary and environmental modifications to meet their changing needs, we can make the lives of our geriatric cats much more comfortable and rewarding. [source] Nephrotic syndrome associated with administration of sulfadimethoxine/ ormetoprim in a dobermannJOURNAL OF SMALL ANIMAL PRACTICE, Issue 5 2005R. J. Vasilopulos This case report describes sulphonamide-induced nephrotic syndrome in a young dobermann dog. The clinical signs and laboratory abnormalities resolved shortly after discontinuation of the sulphonamide antibiotic and with generalised supportive care. Since nephrotic syndrome typically carries a guarded prognosis in veterinary medicine and is poorly responsive to therapy, a thorough drug history should be an important part of the investigation of any animal with a protein-losing nephropathy. [source] Hand and forearm dermatoses among veterinariansJOURNAL OF THE EUROPEAN ACADEMY OF DERMATOLOGY & VENEREOLOGY, Issue 3 2007DM Bulcke Abstract Background, Infectious and non-infectious hand and forearm dermatoses are frequent in daily veterinary medicine. In this specific occupation there is a serious impact of skin disease on the lives and careers of veterinarians. Objective, In this study we clarify the different occupational dermatoses on hands and forearms among veterinarians, using data collected in different dermatological patch-test expert centres in Belgium and the Netherlands. Methods, Instead of questioning veterinarians themselves, which has been done in different studies in the past, we contacted dermatologists in Belgium and the Netherlands, questioning them about their experiences with dermatoses among veterinarians. Results, Seven dermatologists described a total of 58 veterinarians. Infectious dermatoses were described in 12 cases (20.7%). The non-infectious dermatoses (46 cases, 79.3%) can be classified as contact urticaria and as irritant or allergic contact dermatitis. Conclusion, While irritant contact dermatitis accounts for the vast majority of hand and forearm dermatoses among veterinarians, contact urticaria and allergic contact dermatitis also significantly contribute to the occupational morbidity. Repeated hand washing, occlusion under rubber gloves, contact with animal protein fluids during obstetric procedures and contact with antiseptic agents, systemic and topical corticosteroids and antibiotics are the most likely causes of hand and forearm dermatoses among veterinarians. [source] Use of dopamine in acute renal failureJOURNAL OF VETERINARY EMERGENCY AND CRITICAL CARE, Issue 2 2007DACVECC, Nadja E. Sigrist DrMedVet Abstract Objective: To review the current understanding of dopamine and its use in the prevention and treatment of acute renal failure (ARF). Data sources: Original research articles and scientific reviews. Human data synthesis: Low-dose dopamine administration has been shown to increase natriuresis and urinary output in both healthy individuals and in a few small studies in human patients with renal insufficiency. However, in several large meta-analyses, dopamine treatment did not change mortality or the need for dialysis. Due to the potential side effects, the use of dopamine for prevention and treatment of ARF is no longer recommended in human medicine. Veterinary data synthesis: Low-dose dopamine increases urinary output in healthy animals and animal models of ARF if given before the insult. There are no available studies looking at the effect of low-dose dopamine therapy in naturally occurring ARF in dogs or cats. Conclusion: Due to the potential side effects of low-dose dopamine therapy, the results from large human trials, and the lack of information in veterinary medicine, the use of dopamine for treatment of ARF in veterinary patients should be further evaluated. [source] Nosocomial infections and antimicrobial resistance in critical care medicineJOURNAL OF VETERINARY EMERGENCY AND CRITICAL CARE, Issue 1 2006Jennifer S. Ogeer-Gyles DVM Abstract Objective: To review the human and companion animal veterinary literature on nosocomial infections and antimicrobial drug resistance as they pertain to the critically ill patient. Data sources: Data from human and veterinary sources were reviewed using PubMed and CAB. Human data synthesis: There is a large amount of published data on nosocomially-acquired bloodstream infections, pneumonia, urinary tract infections and surgical site infections, and strategies to minimize the frequency of these infections, in human medicine. Nosocomial infections caused by multi-drug-resistant (MDR) pathogens are a leading cause of increased patient morbidity and mortality, medical treatment costs, and prolonged hospital stay. Epidemiology and risk factor analyses have shown that the major risk factor for the development of antimicrobial resistance in critically ill human patients is heavy antibiotic usage. Veterinary data synthesis: There is a paucity of information on the development of antimicrobial drug resistance and nosocomially-acquired infections in critically ill small animal veterinary patients. Mechanisms of antimicrobial drug resistance are universal, although the selection effects created by antibiotic usage may be less significant in veterinary patients. Future studies on the development of antimicrobial drug resistance in critically ill animals may benefit from research that has been conducted in humans. Conclusions: Antimicrobial use in critically ill patients selects for antimicrobial drug resistance and MDR nosocomial pathogens. The choice of antimicrobials should be prudent and based on regular surveillance studies and accurate microbiological diagnostics. Antimicrobial drug resistance is becoming an increasing problem in veterinary medicine, particularly in the critical care setting, and institution-specific strategies should be developed to prevent the emergence of MDR infections. The collation of data from tertiary-care veterinary hospitals may identify trends in antimicrobial drug resistance patterns in nosocomial pathogens and aid in formulating guidelines for antimicrobial use. [source] An updated view of hemostasis: mechanisms of hemostatic dysfuntion associated with sepsisJOURNAL OF VETERINARY EMERGENCY AND CRITICAL CARE, Issue 2 2005DACVECC, Kate Hopper BVSc Abstract Objective: To review the current understanding of mechanisms involved in normal hemostasis and to describe the changes associated with pro-inflammatory disease processes such as sepsis. Data sources: Original research articles and scientific reviews. Human data synthesis: Organ damage caused by sepsis is created in part by the interdependent relationship between hemostasis and inflammation. Markers of coagulation have been found to have prognostic value in human patients with sepsis and there are both experimental and clinical investigations of the therapeutic potential of modulating the hemostatic system in sepsis. Improvement of 28-day all-cause mortality in severe sepsis by treatment with recombinant human activated Protein C strongly supports the interdependence of hemostasis and inflammation in the pathophysiology of sepsis. Veterinary data synthesis: Publications reporting clinical evaluation of the hemostatic changes occurring in septic dogs or cats are minimal. Experimental animal models of sepsis reveal significant similarity between human and animal sepsis and may provide relevance to clinical veterinary medicine until prospective clinical evaluations are published. Conclusions: It is now apparent that inflammation and the coagulation system are intimately connected. Understanding this relationship provides some insight into the pathogenesis of the hemostatic changes associated with sepsis. This new updated view of hemostasis may lead to the development of novel therapeutic approaches to sepsis and disseminated intravascular coagulation in veterinary medicine. [source] Thromboelastography: a tool for measuring hypercoagulability, hypocoagulability, and fibrinolysisJOURNAL OF VETERINARY EMERGENCY AND CRITICAL CARE, Issue 1 2005DACVECC, Suzanne M. Donahue VMD Abstract Objective: To describe the technique of thromboelastography (TEG) and review the applications of this coagulation test in humans and small animals. Data sources: Data sources included scientific reviews and original research publications. Human data synthesis: TEG in humans has been used for documentation of hypercoagulable and hypocoagulable states and has been shown to be beneficial in patient management. Veterinary data synthesis: Clinical evaluation of TEG in veterinary medicine is limited; however, recent reports have documented evidence of hypercoagulability in dogs with parvovirus and protein-losing nephropathy. Additionally, many of the research models may be relevant to veterinary patients. Conclusions: TEG provides information about coagulation that is not available through routine coagulation tests. The application of TEG monitoring to veterinary patients shows promise; however, prospective clinical studies are needed. [source] Ischemia,reperfusion injury pathophysiology, part IJOURNAL OF VETERINARY EMERGENCY AND CRITICAL CARE, Issue 4 2004DACVECC, Maureen McMichael DVM Abstract Objective: To review the current scientific literature on ischemia,reperfusion (IR) injury in both human and veterinary medicine. To describe the normal antioxidant defense mechanisms, the pathophysiology of IR injury, and the role of neutrophils in IR injury. Data sources: Data sources include scientific reviews and original research publications in both human and veterinary medicine. Summary: IR injury is a complex pathophysiological process involving numerous pathways and body systems. Normal antioxidant defense mechanisms function to limit oxidative injury during times of health. Ischemia is the period that occurs before oxygenated blood is re-introduced and the severity of injury has been shown to correlate with the magnitude and length of ischemia in dogs. During ischemia, there is a buildup of substances (i.e., xanthine oxidase, hypoxanthine, etc.) that, upon re-introduction of oxygen, form reactive oxygen species (ROS). ROS, produced in large part upon reperfusion, can cause extensive damage to DNA, proteins, carbohydrates, and lipids. Although mammalian systems are endowed with abundant antioxidant defenses, the generation of large amounts of ROS can overwhelm these mechanisms leading to cell dysfunction and death. Neutrophils play a critical role in IR injury and may mediate the majority of mucosal and microvascular injury that occurs by releasing ROS and proteolytic enzymes. Although experimental studies have been carried out on cats, dogs, and horses there are few clinical studies on companion animals. Conclusions: The pathophysiology of IR injury is complex and involves damage by ROS to all biological membranes. Neutrophils play a major role in IR injury and initiate and propogate much of the damage. This article is intended as a review of the pathophysiology of IR injury. [source] Ischemia,reperfusion injury: assessment and treatment, part IIJOURNAL OF VETERINARY EMERGENCY AND CRITICAL CARE, Issue 4 2004DACVECC, Maureen McMichael DVM Abstract Objective: To review the current scientific literature on ischemia,reperfusion (IR) injury in both human and veterinary medicine and to describe the assessment of IR injury, the available testing methods, and the options available for treatment. Data sources: Data sources include scientific reviews and original research publications in both human and veterinary medicine. Summary: The assessment of IR injury includes measuring products formed by the reaction of reactive oxygen species (ROS) with biological membranes, measuring levels of endogenous antioxidants, and measuring ROS themselves. Testing depends on the laboratory used, the test method chosen, the sample submitted (i.e., plasma, urine, tissue, etc.), and the timing of the test in relation to sample collection. For this reason, testing is not standardized and pharmacological data on antioxidant effectiveness are not available. Antioxidants and drugs tested have included single agents as well as ,cocktails' consisting of several agents working at different key points in the injury cascade. Conclusions: There are several new testing methods as well as new strategies for attempting to ameliorate the damage inflicted upon reperfusion and this article is intended as a review of the assessment and treatment of IR injury. [source] CLOSTRIDIUM TETANUS INFECTION IN 13 DOGS AND ONE CATJOURNAL OF VETERINARY EMERGENCY AND CRITICAL CARE, Issue S1 2004C Bandt Clostridium tetani infection is uncommon in dogs and cats. Up to this point in time just single case reports have been published in veterinary medicine. The goal of this retrospective study was to describe the clinical features and outcome of 13 dogs and one cat affected with Clostridium tetani. The medical records of the last ten year were reviewed. Dogs and cats that were identified as being infected with Clostridium tetani on the basis of characteristic clinical signs and/or bacterial culture from infected wounds were eligible for study inclusion. Thirteen dogs and one cat met the criteria for study inclusion. Six different breeds and mix-breed dogs were affected, German Shepherd dogs (n=4, 29%) and Labrador retriever (n=3, 21%) were the most frequently affected breeds. Observed clinical complications were ventricular aspiration pneumonia (n=7), laryngeal spasm (n=6), hypersalivation (n=4), ventricular tachycardia (n=3), and third degree AV block (n=1). Median days from onset of clinical signs until first signs of improvement were 10 days (range: 9,12 days). Median hospitalisation time was 18 days (range: 14,22 days). Six animals showed full recovery and 8 animals died or were euthanized. Death was associated with acute onset of ventricular tachycardia in 2 dogs, 1 dog died with non-responsive third degree AV-block, 3 dogs died after developing aspiration pneumonia, and 1 dog died of unknown causes. [source] Use of intravenous lidocaine to prevent reperfusion injury and subsequent multiple organ dysfunction syndromeJOURNAL OF VETERINARY EMERGENCY AND CRITICAL CARE, Issue 3 2003Benjamin H. Cassutto DVM Abstract Objective: The objective of this article is to review the human and veterinary literature and provide evidence for the potential beneficial effects of intravenous (IV) lidocaine hydrochloride in preventing post-ischemic,reperfusion injury, the systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS), and subsequent multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS). Human data synthesis: Lidocaine is a local anesthetic and antiarrhythmic agent that has been used for years in human and veterinary medicine for the treatment of ventricular dysrhythmias associated with blunt cardiac trauma, myocardial ischemia, and cardiac surgery. More recently, the drug has been touted as a scavenger of reactive oxygen species (ROS), and has been used to prevent reperfusion dysrhythmias after treatment of myocardial infarction, cross-clamping of the aorta, and in trauma medicine. Veterinary data synthesis: Although no clinical experiments with prophylactic intravenous lidocaine exist in veterinary medicine, there is a large body of evidence from experimental animals that support the use of lidocaine as a Na+/Ca2+ channel blocker, superoxide and hydroxyl radical scavenger, inflammatory modulator, and potent inhibitor of granulocyte functions. Lidocaine is being used in some clinical situations in an attempt to prevent the SIRS in veterinary trauma patients.a,b Conclusions: A large body of experimental evidence exists supporting the use of lidocaine as an anti-oxidant and inflammatory modulator useful in preventing reperfusion injury. With the lack of cost-effective and safe treatments for reperfusion injury in veterinary and human trauma medicine, the use of IV lidocaine to prevent the ensuing inflammatory response and MODS makes it an attractive addition to existing treatments. Therefore, it is essential that prospective clinical trials involving lidocaine as a treatment for prevention of reperfusion injury be performed in companion animals to demonstrate its safety and efficacy. [source] | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||