PESQUISA VETERINÁRIA BRASILEIRA

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Pavarini S.P., Sonne L., Antoniassi N.A.B., Santos A.S., Pescador C.A., Corbellini L.G. & Driemeier D. 2008. [Congenital anomalies in aborted bovine fetuses in Southern Brazil.] Anomalias congênitas em fetos bovinos abortados no Sul do Brasil. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(3):149-154. Departamento de Patologia Clínica Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Av. Bento Gonçalves 9090, Porto Alegre, RS 91540-000, Brazil. E-mail: davetpat@ufrgs.br Abortion, stillbirth and neonatal death are important causes of production losses to the livestock industry. Abortions caused by congenital anomalies may occur sporadically, or appear in epidemics. This retrospective study was conducted at Laboratory of Veterinary Pathology of Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, and included 307 cases of bovine abortion submitted for diagnosis from September 2001 to March 2007. Most of them were from southern Brazil. Ten cases (3.25%) of congenital anomalies were seen. The most frequent congenital anomalies were artrogryposis, Amorphous globosus, and cleft palate (palatoschisis). Infectious causes were investigated, but only BVDV infection was detected by immunohistochemistry in one case, which was affected with porencephalia.

• Abortion bovine congenital anomalies

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Pavarini S.P., Sonne L., Antoniassi N.A.B., Santos A.S., Pescador C.A., Corbellini L.G. & Driemeier D. 2008. [Congenital anomalies in aborted bovine fetuses in Southern Brazil.] Anomalias congênitas em fetos bovinos abortados no Sul do Brasil. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(3):149-154. Departamento de Patologia Clínica Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Av. Bento Gonçalves 9090, Porto Alegre, RS 91540-000, Brazil. E-mail: davetpat@ufrgs.br Abortion, stillbirth and neonatal death are important causes of production losses to the livestock industry. Abortions caused by congenital anomalies may occur sporadically, or appear in epidemics. This retrospective study was conducted at Laboratory of Veterinary Pathology of Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul, and included 307 cases of bovine abortion submitted for diagnosis from September 2001 to March 2007. Most of them were from southern Brazil. Ten cases (3.25%) of congenital anomalies were seen. The most frequent congenital anomalies were artrogryposis, Amorphous globosus, and cleft palate (palatoschisis). Infectious causes were investigated, but only BVDV infection was detected by immunohistochemistry in one case, which was affected with porencephalia.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Corrêa A.M.R., Bezerra P.S.J., Pavarini S.P., Santos A.S., Sonne L., Zlotowski P., Gomes G. & Driemeier D. 2008. Senecio brasiliensis (Asteraceae) poisoning in Murrah buffaloes in Rio Grande do Sul. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(3):187-189. Departamento de Patologia Clínica Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Av. Bento Gonçalves 9090, Porto Alegre, RS 91540-000, Brazil. E-mail: davetpat@ufrgs.br Thirteen (14.4%) out of 90 Murrah buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis) became ill after con-sumption of Senecio brasiliensis, and 11 (12.2%) of them died. The buffaloes were kept in a highly Senecio brasiliensis infested area. The poisoning occurred in June-August 2006 on a farm in the county of Nova Prata, Rio Grande do Sul, southern Brazil. Clinical signs included weakness, apathy, progressive weight loss, permanent decubitus, and diarrhea. Necropsy was performed in 2 of the 11 buffaloes that died. The pathological findings were typical of poisoning by pyrrolizidine alkaloids. High infestation of pastures with S. brasiliensis, severe drought, and consequent starvation were the main epidemiological factors associated with the poisoning here described.

• Buffaloes pyrrolizidine alkaloids Senecio poisoning

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Corrêa A.M.R., Bezerra P.S.J., Pavarini S.P., Santos A.S., Sonne L., Zlotowski P., Gomes G. & Driemeier D. 2008. Senecio brasiliensis (Asteraceae) poisoning in Murrah buffaloes in Rio Grande do Sul. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(3):187-189. Departamento de Patologia Clínica Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Av. Bento Gonçalves 9090, Porto Alegre, RS 91540-000, Brazil. E-mail: davetpat@ufrgs.br Thirteen (14.4%) out of 90 Murrah buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis) became ill after con-sumption of Senecio brasiliensis, and 11 (12.2%) of them died. The buffaloes were kept in a highly Senecio brasiliensis infested area. The poisoning occurred in June-August 2006 on a farm in the county of Nova Prata, Rio Grande do Sul, southern Brazil. Clinical signs included weakness, apathy, progressive weight loss, permanent decubitus, and diarrhea. Necropsy was performed in 2 of the 11 buffaloes that died. The pathological findings were typical of poisoning by pyrrolizidine alkaloids. High infestation of pastures with S. brasiliensis, severe drought, and consequent starvation were the main epidemiological factors associated with the poisoning here described.

Abstract in English:

Abstract.- Raymundo D.L., Bezerra Junior P.S., Bandarra P.M., Pedroso P.M.O., Oliveira E.C., Pescador C.A. & Driemeier D. 2008. Spontaneous poisoning by larvae of Perreyia flavipes (Pergidae) in sheep. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(1):19-22. Departamento de Patologia Clínica Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Avenida Bento Gonçalves 9090, Porto Alegre, RS 91540-000, Brazil. E-mail: davetpat@ufrgs.br From a flock of 175 Texel sheep 25 animals died after consumption of a sawfly larvae subsequently identified as Perreyia flavipes. The disease occurred in June-July 2006 on a farm located in the county of Encruzilhada do Sul, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. Although there were 11 cattle in the same paddock, none of them was affected. High numbers of compact masses containing up to 150 larvae were scattered in the paddock where the animals were grazing. Most affected sheep showed severe apathy during 24-36 h before death, but weakness, muscular tremors and depression were also observed. Necropsy was performed on six sheep and the main macroscopic lesions were hemor-rhages in the subcutaneous tissues, endocardium, gallbladder wall, and abomasal mucosa. In all animals was found hydrothorax, hydropericardium, ascites, and mild jaundice. Edema in the abomasal folds, mesentery, perirenal tissues, and gallbladder wall were also seen. The livers were yellowish with disseminated pinpoint hemorrhages in the parenchyma and had an enhanced lobular pattern. Perreyia flavipes larval body fragments and heads were found in the forestomach contents of the six sheep. Feces were scant, dry and formed balls coated by mucus and streaks of blood. Similar contents were also present at the end of the cecum. Prominent microscopic lesions included severe and diffuse periacinar or massive necrosis of hepatocytes associated with multifocal random hemorrhages. Diffuse necrosis of lymphoid follicles in lymph nodes and Peyer´s patches, lymphoid depletion and necrosis in germinative centers of the spleen, and diffuse vacuolization in the renal tubular epithelia were also seen.

• Liver necrosis Perreyia flavipes sawfly larval poisoning sheep

Abstract in Portuguese:

Abstract.- Raymundo D.L., Bezerra Junior P.S., Bandarra P.M., Pedroso P.M.O., Oliveira E.C., Pescador C.A. & Driemeier D. 2008. Spontaneous poisoning by larvae of Perreyia flavipes (Pergidae) in sheep. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 28(1):19-22. Departamento de Patologia Clínica Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Avenida Bento Gonçalves 9090, Porto Alegre, RS 91540-000, Brazil. E-mail: davetpat@ufrgs.br From a flock of 175 Texel sheep 25 animals died after consumption of a sawfly larvae subsequently identified as Perreyia flavipes. The disease occurred in June-July 2006 on a farm located in the county of Encruzilhada do Sul, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. Although there were 11 cattle in the same paddock, none of them was affected. High numbers of compact masses containing up to 150 larvae were scattered in the paddock where the animals were grazing. Most affected sheep showed severe apathy during 24-36 h before death, but weakness, muscular tremors and depression were also observed. Necropsy was performed on six sheep and the main macroscopic lesions were hemor-rhages in the subcutaneous tissues, endocardium, gallbladder wall, and abomasal mucosa. In all animals was found hydrothorax, hydropericardium, ascites, and mild jaundice. Edema in the abomasal folds, mesentery, perirenal tissues, and gallbladder wall were also seen. The livers were yellowish with disseminated pinpoint hemorrhages in the parenchyma and had an enhanced lobular pattern. Perreyia flavipes larval body fragments and heads were found in the forestomach contents of the six sheep. Feces were scant, dry and formed balls coated by mucus and streaks of blood. Similar contents were also present at the end of the cecum. Prominent microscopic lesions included severe and diffuse periacinar or massive necrosis of hepatocytes associated with multifocal random hemorrhages. Diffuse necrosis of lymphoid follicles in lymph nodes and Peyer´s patches, lymphoid depletion and necrosis in germinative centers of the spleen, and diffuse vacuolization in the renal tubular epithelia were also seen.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Pescador C.A., Corbellini L.G., Oliveira E.C., M. Bandarra P.M., Leal J.S., Pedroso P.M.O. & Driemeier D. 2007. [Ovine abortion associated with Sarcocystis sp. infection.] Aborto ovino associado com infecção por Sarcocystis sp. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(10):393-397. Departamento de Patologia Clínica Veterinária, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Av. Bento Gonçalves 9090, Porto Alegre, RS 91540-000, Brazil. E-mail: davetpat@ufrgs.br Protozoal infection has worldwide distribution and may cause abortion, premature parturition or fetal death in almost all domestic animals. In July 2004, eight Corriedale sheep showed abortion and stillbirth in the third trimester of gestation. Of these reproductive losses, one stillborn male was submitted to the Laboratory of Veterinary Pathology for necropsy investigation. The direct immunofluorescence test for Leptospira sp. was negative. No significant bacteria was isolated from lung and liver by aerobic and microaerobic cultures. Macroscopic lesions were not found in any fetal tissue. The histological lesions were observed mainly in the brain and heart and consisted primarily of severe multifocal nonsupurative encephalitis and nonsuppurative myocarditis. Schizonts of a protozoan parasite consistent with Sarcocystis sp. were found in the endothelial cells and vascular endothelium in several organs. Many schizonts with merozoites arranged in a rosette-like pattern were observed in brain and kidney tissues. In sections stained with periodic acid-Schiff (PAS), the limiting membrane of some schizonts appeared to be weakly PAS-positive. Merozoites and nuclei were PAS-negative. Protozoa did not react immunohistochemically to the antibody anti-Toxoplasma gondii; however, cross-reactivity was observed with Neospora caninum antibody. These findings were consistent with the diagnosis of Sarcocystis sp.

• Sarcocystis sp. abortion stillbirth sheep

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Pescador C.A., Corbellini L.G., Oliveira E.C., M. Bandarra P.M., Leal J.S., Pedroso P.M.O. & Driemeier D. 2007. [Ovine abortion associated with Sarcocystis sp. infection.] Aborto ovino associado com infecção por Sarcocystis sp. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(10):393-397. Departamento de Patologia Clínica Veterinária, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Av. Bento Gonçalves 9090, Porto Alegre, RS 91540-000, Brazil. E-mail: davetpat@ufrgs.br Protozoal infection has worldwide distribution and may cause abortion, premature parturition or fetal death in almost all domestic animals. In July 2004, eight Corriedale sheep showed abortion and stillbirth in the third trimester of gestation. Of these reproductive losses, one stillborn male was submitted to the Laboratory of Veterinary Pathology for necropsy investigation. The direct immunofluorescence test for Leptospira sp. was negative. No significant bacteria was isolated from lung and liver by aerobic and microaerobic cultures. Macroscopic lesions were not found in any fetal tissue. The histological lesions were observed mainly in the brain and heart and consisted primarily of severe multifocal nonsupurative encephalitis and nonsuppurative myocarditis. Schizonts of a protozoan parasite consistent with Sarcocystis sp. were found in the endothelial cells and vascular endothelium in several organs. Many schizonts with merozoites arranged in a rosette-like pattern were observed in brain and kidney tissues. In sections stained with periodic acid-Schiff (PAS), the limiting membrane of some schizonts appeared to be weakly PAS-positive. Merozoites and nuclei were PAS-negative. Protozoa did not react immunohistochemically to the antibody anti-Toxoplasma gondii; however, cross-reactivity was observed with Neospora caninum antibody. These findings were consistent with the diagnosis of Sarcocystis sp.

Abstract in English:

Abstract.- Pescador C.A., Bandarra P.M., Castro L.A., Antoniassi N.A.B., Ravazollo, A.P., Sonne L. Cruz C.E.F. & Driemeier D. 2007. Co-infection by porcine circovirus type 2 and porcine parvovirus in aborted fetuses and stillborn piglets in southern Brazil. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(10):425-429. Departamento de Patologia Clínica Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Av. Bento Gonçalves 9090, Porto Alegre, RS 91540-000, Brazil. E-mail: davetpat@ufrgs.br Porcine circovirus types 1 and 2 (PCV1, PCV2) and porcine parvovirus (PPV) are widespread in pig populations around the world. Nevertheless, only PCV2 has been associated with different clinical syndromes, thus representing a major problem to the pig industry. The association of cases of swine abortions and stillborns with PCV1 and PCV2 and PPV was studied retrospectively (2005-2007). Additional pathogens were also investigated in lesioned fetuses. The studied litters included stillborn piglets and several mummified fetuses of varied sizes. Ventricular dilatation, myocardial pale areas, and mesocolic edema were the gross lesions. Escherichia coli was detected as co-infecting with PCV2 the cases in which mesocolic edema was seen. Microscopic lesions included non-suppurative myocarditis, myocardial necrosis and fibrosis, mineralization foci and intranuclear inclusion bodies in cardiomyocytes, and interstitial mononuclear pneumonia. Samples from 7 (5.78 per cent) of 121 aborted fetuses and stillborn piglets had lesions consistent with a viral cause and showed both positive anti-PCV2 immunostaining as well as PCV2-PCR. In samples from 3 (2.47 per cent) of these 7 fetuses, co-infection with PPV was confirmed by Nested-PCR. Both viruses were detected in fetuses at different stages of gestation. Viral antigens of PCV2 were detected by immunohistochemistry mainly in macrophages and myocytes. PCV1 individually was not detected in any of these affected fetuses, but it was associated with PCV2 and/or PPV in some of them. These findings indicate that PCV2 alone or in association with PPV should be kept in mind when investigating causes of infectious abortion in pigs in Brazil.

• Abortion PCV2 PCV1 PPV stillborn swine Brazil

Abstract in Portuguese:

Abstract.- Pescador C.A., Bandarra P.M., Castro L.A., Antoniassi N.A.B., Ravazollo, A.P., Sonne L. Cruz C.E.F. & Driemeier D. 2007. Co-infection by porcine circovirus type 2 and porcine parvovirus in aborted fetuses and stillborn piglets in southern Brazil. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(10):425-429. Departamento de Patologia Clínica Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Av. Bento Gonçalves 9090, Porto Alegre, RS 91540-000, Brazil. E-mail: davetpat@ufrgs.br Porcine circovirus types 1 and 2 (PCV1, PCV2) and porcine parvovirus (PPV) are widespread in pig populations around the world. Nevertheless, only PCV2 has been associated with different clinical syndromes, thus representing a major problem to the pig industry. The association of cases of swine abortions and stillborns with PCV1 and PCV2 and PPV was studied retrospectively (2005-2007). Additional pathogens were also investigated in lesioned fetuses. The studied litters included stillborn piglets and several mummified fetuses of varied sizes. Ventricular dilatation, myocardial pale areas, and mesocolic edema were the gross lesions. Escherichia coli was detected as co-infecting with PCV2 the cases in which mesocolic edema was seen. Microscopic lesions included non-suppurative myocarditis, myocardial necrosis and fibrosis, mineralization foci and intranuclear inclusion bodies in cardiomyocytes, and interstitial mononuclear pneumonia. Samples from 7 (5.78 per cent) of 121 aborted fetuses and stillborn piglets had lesions consistent with a viral cause and showed both positive anti-PCV2 immunostaining as well as PCV2-PCR. In samples from 3 (2.47 per cent) of these 7 fetuses, co-infection with PPV was confirmed by Nested-PCR. Both viruses were detected in fetuses at different stages of gestation. Viral antigens of PCV2 were detected by immunohistochemistry mainly in macrophages and myocytes. PCV1 individually was not detected in any of these affected fetuses, but it was associated with PCV2 and/or PPV in some of them. These findings indicate that PCV2 alone or in association with PPV should be kept in mind when investigating causes of infectious abortion in pigs in Brazil.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Pescador C.A., Oliveira E.C., Pedroso P.M.O., Bandarra P.M., Okuda L.H., Corbellini L.G. & Driemeier D. 2007. [Reproductive losses linked to Toxoplasma gondii infection in goats in southern Brazil.] Perdas reprodutivas associadas com infecção por Toxoplasma gondii em caprinos no sul do Brasil. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(4):167-171. Departamento de Patologia Clínica Veterinária, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Av. Bento Gonçalves 9090, Porto Alegre, RS 91540-000, Brazil. E-mail: davetpat@ufrgs.br Toxoplasma gondii was implicated with reproductive losses in a goat herd in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. Gross changes were present in 2 out of 6 fetuses/offsprings submitted for diagnosis and included enlarged, pale mesenteric lymph nodes, and edematous, mottled red and tan lungs. Microscopic changes were observed in most fetuses and were especially characterized by lymphoplasmacytic infiltration in the brain and lungs. Other histological changes included lymphoplasmacytic interstitial nephritis, necrotizing lymphadenitis and periportal lympho-plasmacytic cell infiltrates. While bacteriological and direct immunofluorescent antibody tests for Leptospira sp. were negative in samples from all cases, immunohistochemical and PCR procedures for Toxoplasma gondii reacted positively in most of them. Antibody titles against T. gondii varying from 1:512 to 1:2048 were detected in serum samples from the mother goats of these aborted (1), stillborn (3) or dead newborn (2) kids. This paper describes the clinical, pathological, serological, molecular and immunohistochemical findings of a Toxoplasma gondii-infected goat flock.

• Abortion goat reproductive losses stillborn Toxoplasma gondii

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Pescador C.A., Oliveira E.C., Pedroso P.M.O., Bandarra P.M., Okuda L.H., Corbellini L.G. & Driemeier D. 2007. [Reproductive losses linked to Toxoplasma gondii infection in goats in southern Brazil.] Perdas reprodutivas associadas com infecção por Toxoplasma gondii em caprinos no sul do Brasil. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(4):167-171. Departamento de Patologia Clínica Veterinária, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Av. Bento Gonçalves 9090, Porto Alegre, RS 91540-000, Brazil. E-mail: davetpat@ufrgs.br Toxoplasma gondii was implicated with reproductive losses in a goat herd in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. Gross changes were present in 2 out of 6 fetuses/offsprings submitted for diagnosis and included enlarged, pale mesenteric lymph nodes, and edematous, mottled red and tan lungs. Microscopic changes were observed in most fetuses and were especially characterized by lymphoplasmacytic infiltration in the brain and lungs. Other histological changes included lymphoplasmacytic interstitial nephritis, necrotizing lymphadenitis and periportal lympho-plasmacytic cell infiltrates. While bacteriological and direct immunofluorescent antibody tests for Leptospira sp. were negative in samples from all cases, immunohistochemical and PCR procedures for Toxoplasma gondii reacted positively in most of them. Antibody titles against T. gondii varying from 1:512 to 1:2048 were detected in serum samples from the mother goats of these aborted (1), stillborn (3) or dead newborn (2) kids. This paper describes the clinical, pathological, serological, molecular and immunohistochemical findings of a Toxoplasma gondii-infected goat flock.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Rozza D.B., Corrêa A.M.R., Leal J.S., Bandarra P.M., Guagnini F.S. & Djeison Lutier Raymundo D.L. & Driemeier D. 2007. [Experimental monensin poisoning in water buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis) and cattle.] Intoxicação experimental por monensina em búfalos e bovinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(4):172-178. Departamento de Patologia Clínica Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Av. Bento Gonçalves 9090, Porto Alegre, RS 91540-000, Brazil. E-mail: davetpat@ufrgs.br Monensin is widely used as a feed additive to improve performance of livestock; however accidental poisoning by this ionophore compound has been reported in a number of animal species. Typical clinical signs and lesions of monensin poisoning were induced in water buffaloes dosed with single dosages of 15, 10, 7.5, and 5mg/kg of the compound. Only buffaloes dosed with 2.5 mg/kg (1 day) and 1mg/kg (7 days) survived. Clinical signs initiated about 6 h post-dosing and included apathy, anorexia, diarrhea, drooling, muscular weakness, locomotion disorders, dyspnea, tachycardia, jugular distension and pulse, recumbency and death. The creatine kinase (CK) levels were highly augmented in blood samples of buffaloes dosed with monensin. Most prominent gross changes were ascites, hydrothorax, hydropericardium, cardiomegaly, hepatomegaly, and focal pale areas in the myocardium and in skeletal muscles. Degeneration and necrosis of myofibers were the principal histopathological findings. Conversely, no evidence of disease, neither change in CK levels were observed in the beef cattle steers dosed with same doses, confirming preliminary findings that buffaloes are more susceptible to monensin than cattle. In addition, this communication presents the minimal toxic dosage of monensin to buffaloes and suggests that CK tests may serve as health monitoring tools in the management of buffalo herds supplemented with monensin.

• Buffaloes cattle CK levels degenerative myopathy monensin toxicity monensin tolerance

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Rozza D.B., Corrêa A.M.R., Leal J.S., Bandarra P.M., Guagnini F.S. & Djeison Lutier Raymundo D.L. & Driemeier D. 2007. [Experimental monensin poisoning in water buffaloes (Bubalus bubalis) and cattle.] Intoxicação experimental por monensina em búfalos e bovinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 27(4):172-178. Departamento de Patologia Clínica Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Av. Bento Gonçalves 9090, Porto Alegre, RS 91540-000, Brazil. E-mail: davetpat@ufrgs.br Monensin is widely used as a feed additive to improve performance of livestock; however accidental poisoning by this ionophore compound has been reported in a number of animal species. Typical clinical signs and lesions of monensin poisoning were induced in water buffaloes dosed with single dosages of 15, 10, 7.5, and 5mg/kg of the compound. Only buffaloes dosed with 2.5 mg/kg (1 day) and 1mg/kg (7 days) survived. Clinical signs initiated about 6 h post-dosing and included apathy, anorexia, diarrhea, drooling, muscular weakness, locomotion disorders, dyspnea, tachycardia, jugular distension and pulse, recumbency and death. The creatine kinase (CK) levels were highly augmented in blood samples of buffaloes dosed with monensin. Most prominent gross changes were ascites, hydrothorax, hydropericardium, cardiomegaly, hepatomegaly, and focal pale areas in the myocardium and in skeletal muscles. Degeneration and necrosis of myofibers were the principal histopathological findings. Conversely, no evidence of disease, neither change in CK levels were observed in the beef cattle steers dosed with same doses, confirming preliminary findings that buffaloes are more susceptible to monensin than cattle. In addition, this communication presents the minimal toxic dosage of monensin to buffaloes and suggests that CK tests may serve as health monitoring tools in the management of buffalo herds supplemented with monensin.

Abstract in English:

ABSTRACT.- Corrêa A.M.R., Zlotowski P., Rozza D.B., Borba M.R., Leal J.S., Cuz C.E.F. & Driemeier D. 2006. Postweaning multisystemic wasting syndrome in farmed wild boars (Sus scrofa) in Rio Grande do Sul. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(3):154-156. Department of Veterinary Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Av. Bento Gonçalves 9090, Porto Alegre, RS 91540-000, Brazil. E-mail: davetpath@ufrgs.br This report concerns an outbreak of postweaning multisystemic wasting syndrome in wild boars from commercial herds in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. The main clinical signs were progressive wasting, respiratory distress, diarrhea, and ocular discharges. Enhanced lymph nodes and spleens, ascites, hydrothorax, and non collapsed lungs were the principal gross lesions. Varying degrees of lymphohistiocytic infiltrates in lymph nodes, spleen, and intestines were the most significant microscopic changes. Although a total of 26 animals had showed clinical and pathological findings consistent with the disease, only in 11 of them it was possible to confirm a PMWS diagnosis through the association of specific lesions in lymphoid tissues with the presence of the viral antigen detected by immunohistochemistry. These findings were similar to those reported in the swine disease.

• Circovirus PCV2 PMWS immunohistochemistry wild boar Sus scrofa

Abstract in Portuguese:

ABSTRACT.- Corrêa A.M.R., Zlotowski P., Rozza D.B., Borba M.R., Leal J.S., Cuz C.E.F. & Driemeier D. 2006. Postweaning multisystemic wasting syndrome in farmed wild boars (Sus scrofa) in Rio Grande do Sul. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(3):154-156. Department of Veterinary Pathology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS), Av. Bento Gonçalves 9090, Porto Alegre, RS 91540-000, Brazil. E-mail: davetpath@ufrgs.br This report concerns an outbreak of postweaning multisystemic wasting syndrome in wild boars from commercial herds in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. The main clinical signs were progressive wasting, respiratory distress, diarrhea, and ocular discharges. Enhanced lymph nodes and spleens, ascites, hydrothorax, and non collapsed lungs were the principal gross lesions. Varying degrees of lymphohistiocytic infiltrates in lymph nodes, spleen, and intestines were the most significant microscopic changes. Although a total of 26 animals had showed clinical and pathological findings consistent with the disease, only in 11 of them it was possible to confirm a PMWS diagnosis through the association of specific lesions in lymphoid tissues with the presence of the viral antigen detected by immunohistochemistry. These findings were similar to those reported in the swine disease.

Abstract in English:

Corrêa A.M.R., Pescador C.A., Schmitz M., Zlotowski P., Rozza D.B., Oliveira E.C., Barcellos D.E. & Driemeier D. 2006. [Clinical and pathological aspects of swine circovirosis in Rio Grande do Sul, southern Brazil.] Aspectos clínico-patológicos associados à circovirose suína no Rio Grande do Sul. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(1):9-13. Setor de Patologia Veterinária, Faculdade de Veterinária, UFRGS, Av. Bento Gonçalves 9090, Porto Alegre, RS 91540-000, Brazil. E-mail: davetpat@ufrgs.br A total of 97 pigs, which had presented wasting, lymphadenomegaly, respiratory distress and pale or icteric mucosa, was necropsied over a 6-month period. Macroscopic lesions were characterized mostly by enlarged lymph nodes, non collapsed and round edged lungs with cranio-ventral areas of consolidation and interlobular edema. Kidneys had increased size, were pale, and presented numerous scattered white spots projecting from surface to the cortical area. Some kidneys also showed small red spots similar to petechial hemorrhage over the cortex. Main microscopic lesions were lympho-histiocytic infiltration in lymph nodes, lungs, and kidneys. Immunohistochemical probing with polyclonal antisera to type II swine circovirus stained positively in 50 out of the 56 cases tested (89.2%).

• Circovirus PMWS PCV2 immunohistochemistry swine.

Abstract in Portuguese:

Corrêa A.M.R., Pescador C.A., Schmitz M., Zlotowski P., Rozza D.B., Oliveira E.C., Barcellos D.E. & Driemeier D. 2006. [Clinical and pathological aspects of swine circovirosis in Rio Grande do Sul, southern Brazil.] Aspectos clínico-patológicos associados à circovirose suína no Rio Grande do Sul. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(1):9-13. Setor de Patologia Veterinária, Faculdade de Veterinária, UFRGS, Av. Bento Gonçalves 9090, Porto Alegre, RS 91540-000, Brazil. E-mail: davetpat@ufrgs.br A total of 97 pigs, which had presented wasting, lymphadenomegaly, respiratory distress and pale or icteric mucosa, was necropsied over a 6-month period. Macroscopic lesions were characterized mostly by enlarged lymph nodes, non collapsed and round edged lungs with cranio-ventral areas of consolidation and interlobular edema. Kidneys had increased size, were pale, and presented numerous scattered white spots projecting from surface to the cortical area. Some kidneys also showed small red spots similar to petechial hemorrhage over the cortex. Main microscopic lesions were lympho-histiocytic infiltration in lymph nodes, lungs, and kidneys. Immunohistochemical probing with polyclonal antisera to type II swine circovirus stained positively in 50 out of the 56 cases tested (89.2%).

Abstract in English:

Rozza D.B., Raymundo D.L., Corrêa A.M.R., Seitz A.L., Driemeier D. & Colodel E.M. 2006. [Spontaneous Baccharis coridifolia (Compositae) poisoning in sheep.] Intoxicação espontânea por Baccharis coridifolia (Compositae) em ovinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(1):21-25. Departamento de Patologia Clínica Veterinária, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Av. Bento Gonçalves 9090, Cx. Postal 15094, Porto Alegre, RS 91540-000, Brazil. E-mail: moleta@terra.com.br An outbreak of Baccharis coridifolia (Compositae) poisoning in sheep is reported, which occurred in November 2004 in the county of Caxias do Sul, Rio Grande do Sul (RS), southern Brazil. From a herd of 212 sheep, coming from a Baccharis coridifolia free area, in the county of Jaguarão, RS, 35 sheep died until 5 days after the arrival in the new area where the plant was found with abundance. The clinical signs began 8 hours after introduction of the animals into the new pasture and included apathy, anorexia, abdominal retraction or mild distension, weakness of hind limbs, dry feces, sternal ou lateral decumbency, struggling movements, coma and death. Clinical evolution was from 5 to 48 hours. Other sheep that were already before on the pasture were not affected. Main necropsy findings were in the gastrointestinal tube, with wall and serosal oedema, mainly in the reticulo-ruminal fold and of the abomasum, reddening and detachment of the mucosa of forestomachs, and intense hemorrhage in the submucosa. Histopathological findings were degeneration and necrosis of the epithelium of the forestomachs with polymorphonuclear infiltration associated with bacterial colonies, congestion, hemorrhage and oedema, and lymphoid tissue necrosis.

• Poisonous plants Baccharis coridifolia Compositae plant poisoning diseases of sheep pathology.

Abstract in Portuguese:

Rozza D.B., Raymundo D.L., Corrêa A.M.R., Seitz A.L., Driemeier D. & Colodel E.M. 2006. [Spontaneous Baccharis coridifolia (Compositae) poisoning in sheep.] Intoxicação espontânea por Baccharis coridifolia (Compositae) em ovinos. Pesquisa Veterinária Brasileira 26(1):21-25. Departamento de Patologia Clínica Veterinária, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Sul, Av. Bento Gonçalves 9090, Cx. Postal 15094, Porto Alegre, RS 91540-000, Brazil. E-mail: moleta@terra.com.br An outbreak of Baccharis coridifolia (Compositae) poisoning in sheep is reported, which occurred in November 2004 in the county of Caxias do Sul, Rio Grande do Sul (RS), southern Brazil. From a herd of 212 sheep, coming from a Baccharis coridifolia free area, in the county of Jaguarão, RS, 35 sheep died until 5 days after the arrival in the new area where the plant was found with abundance. The clinical signs began 8 hours after introduction of the animals into the new pasture and included apathy, anorexia, abdominal retraction or mild distension, weakness of hind limbs, dry feces, sternal ou lateral decumbency, struggling movements, coma and death. Clinical evolution was from 5 to 48 hours. Other sheep that were already before on the pasture were not affected. Main necropsy findings were in the gastrointestinal tube, with wall and serosal oedema, mainly in the reticulo-ruminal fold and of the abomasum, reddening and detachment of the mucosa of forestomachs, and intense hemorrhage in the submucosa. Histopathological findings were degeneration and necrosis of the epithelium of the forestomachs with polymorphonuclear infiltration associated with bacterial colonies, congestion, hemorrhage and oedema, and lymphoid tissue necrosis.