Double drape tectonic patch with cyanoacrylate glue for surgical repair of corneal defects: 8 cases

OBJECTIVE

To describe the use of a double drape tectonic patch with cyanoacrylate glue technique for the treatment of deep or penetrating corneal defects in cats and dogs.

ANIMALS STUDIED

Eight client-owned animals of which five were cats and three were dogs.

PROCEDURE

Eight cases: Four with descemetoceles, three with corneal perforations, and one with a deep stromal ulcer were treated with a double layer of plastic drape material adhered to the cornea with a cyanoacrylate (2-octyl or 2-octyl, N-butyl)-based tissue adhesive. The patch was then covered with a third eyelid flap.

RESULTS

Seven of the eight eyes healed uneventfully with a median time to healing time of 20 days (range 14-28 days). After healing, the glue patch had loosened and was removed. One eye of one cat developed bacterial keratitis with an iris prolapse adjacent to the patch and was subsequently enucleated. Only two of the eight eyes had increased corneal neovascularization.

CONCLUSION

Treatment of deep or penetrating corneal defects with a double drape tectonic patch and cyanoacrylate glue is a viable option which may be a faster and less expensive alternative to other globe sparing surgical options.

Heterozygote carriers of mutations in the F11 gene, encoding Factor XI, have normal coagulation by thromboelastography during pregnancy

BACKGROUND

Evidence to guide clinical decision-making in pregnant women who are usually asymptomatic, but identified as heterozygote carriers of F11 mutations, is lacking. We hypothesized that women identified on prenatal screening as heterozygous for a mutation in the F11 allele would have minimal evidence of an in vitro coagulation abnormality.

METHODS

We prospectively enrolled women identified by prenatal screening as F11 mutation carriers and pregnant women who were presumed to be normal as controls. We collected blood during antepartum visits or at presentation for delivery and assessed Factor XI (FXI) coagulant activity level, as well as whole-blood coagulation, by thromboelastography.

RESULTS

F11 mutation carriers had lower serum FXI activity levels than controls (51.2 ± 8.5% vs 94.1 ± 19.4%; P <0.0001). Thromboelastography values of all control subjects and F11 mutation carriers were within the normal range. The R-time was slightly longer in F11 mutation carriers (5.3 ± 1.0 s vs 4.2 ± 0.8 s, P <0.002), but no other statistically significant differences in thromboelastogram parameters were identified between groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite lower FXI activity in the F11 mutation group, we found minimal differences in whole-blood measures of coagulation using thromboelastography. These findings support our hypothesis that a single copy of an F11 mutation does not produce significant evidence of an in vitro coagulation abnormality. Thromboelastography might be useful in determining the risk of neuraxial anesthesia in pregnant women, but additional work is required to establish the validity of this test.

Punctal stenosis in 6 dogs following the long-term use of topical neomycin-polymyxin B-dexamethasone

Six dogs were diagnosed with punctal stenosis following the long-term use of topical neomycin-polymyxin B-dexamethasone (NPD). All patients were initially presented for ophthalmic diseases requiring ongoing anti-inflammatory therapy. Five of the 6 dogs had previously or concurrently been treated with topical anti-inflammatory medications other than NPD. One patient exclusively received topical NPD prior to the diagnosis of punctal stenosis. The onset of punctal stenosis following therapy with NPD was variable among patients, ranging from 4 months to over 1 year. Diagnosis of punctal stenosis was made based upon the presence of epiphora and visualization of fibrotic tissue over the nasolacrimal puncta.

Canine panuveitis: a retrospective evaluation of 55 cases (2000-2015)

OBJECTIVE

To determine the most common etiologies of panuveitis in a group of dogs, patient response to therapy, and visual outcome.

DESIGN

Retrospective study.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Medical records of 55 dogs diagnosed with panuveitis at the Purdue University Veterinary Teaching Hospital between December 2000 and December 2015 were reviewed. Data collected included signalment, season of diagnosis, descriptions of ocular lesions, diagnostic testing, treatment protocols, etiologic diagnoses (when determined), and visual outcome.

RESULTS

The most common clinical sign in the anterior segment was aqueous flare and in the posterior segment was serous retinal detachment. The most common diagnosis was idiopathic/immune-mediated disease followed by systemic blastomycosis, lymphoma, and other causes (leptospirosis, aspergillosis, and histoplasmosis). Of the 43 dogs for which follow-up was available, 40% of dogs had resolution of visible inflammation and retinal reattachment, 32% of dogs had slight to moderate improvement, and 28% of dogs had no improvement or deterioration of lesions. Mean follow-up time was 11 months, and mean time to resolution of visible inflammation and retinal reattachment was 32 days. Sixty-five percent of dogs either retained or regained vision in one or both diseased eyes with initial medical therapy.

CONCLUSIONS

Idiopathic/immune-mediated panuveitis was the most common diagnosis. Dogs with idiopathic/immune-mediated panuveitis tended to respond more favorably to medical therapy than dogs with infectious panuveitis. Visual outcome was favorable in those dogs that responded to initial medical therapy, but long-term therapy was required in many dogs to maintain vision and prevent recurrence of disease.

Eye examination in the cat

Practical relevance:

The ability to perform a complete eye examination in the cat is critically important for patients with an ocular disorder or a systemic disease, as well as for the geriatric cat.

Clinical challenges:

Cats may need short breaks between portions of the eye exam in order to minimize stress. For the clinician, use of ophthalmic equipment and interpretation of normal vs abnormal findings may take some practice in order to develop proficiency.

Audience:

This review is aimed at veterinary practitioners and outlines all the steps and equipment necessary to perform a complete ophthalmic examination in the cat.

Equipment:

Although some specialized equipment is required, a complete eye exam can be performed with a modest investment in equipment and supplies.

Evidence base:

This article draws on published references for normal parameters measured in the feline eye exam, as well as the experience of the authors.

Use of an ophthalmic formulation of megestrol acetate for the treatment of eosinophilic keratitis in cats

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate a compounded ophthalmic formulation of 0.5% megestrol acetate to treat eosinophilic keratitis in cats.

STUDY DESIGN

Prospective study.

ANIMALS STUDIED

Seventeen client owned cats with eosinophilic keratitis in one or both eyes.

METHODS

Eosinophilic keratitis was confirmed by cytology. At each visit, fluorescein staining and photography were performed. Cats were initially treated q 8-12 h with 0.5% megestrol acetate in an aqueous base. Serum glucose was measured at the first or second reexamination.

RESULTS

Fifteen of 17 (88%) cats had a positive response to treatment, with 6 of 17 (35%) having complete resolution at the first reexamination (2-4 weeks). Two of 17 (12%) cats did not respond to treatment. Most cats required a treatment frequency of once daily to once weekly to maintain remission of disease. No ocular irritation or systemic side effects were noted in any cat.

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE

The use of an ophthalmic formulation of 0.5% megestrol acetate is a viable option for treating feline eosinophilic keratitis.

Ocular manifestations of feline viral diseases

Feline viral diseases are common and cats can be presented with a variety of clinical manifestations. Ocular disease associated with viral pathogens is not unusual, particularly with viruses causing upper respiratory tract disease in cats, such as feline herpesvirus type 1 and feline calicivirus. These agents mainly cause ocular surface disease. Other viruses, such as feline immunodeficiency virus and feline coronavirus, can cause uveitis, while feline leukemia virus can induce ocular lymphosarcoma. This review covers the most common viral pathogens of cats that cause ocular manifestations, the specific features of the ocular diseases caused by these viruses and therapeutic recommendations.

Effects of topical ocular administration of high doses of human recombinant interferon alpha-2b and feline recombinant interferon omega on naturally occurring viral keratoconjunctivitis in cats

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether 14-day topical ocular administration of high doses of feline recombinant interferon omega (FelFN) or human recombinant interferon alpha-2b (HulFN) solution improves clinical disease and decreases virus shedding in cats with naturally acquired viral keratoconjunctivitis.

ANIMALS

36 cats with upper respiratory tract disease and ocular involvement.

PROCEDURES

Cats received 1 drop of FelFN solution (1 × 10(6) U/mL), HulFN solution (1 × 10(6) U/mL), or saline (0.9% NaCl) solution (12 cats/group) in each eye twice daily for 14 days (beginning day 1). Oropharyngeal and conjunctival swab samples were collected from each cat before (day 0) and on day 14 of treatment for virus isolation (VI) and real-time quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) testing to detect feline herpesvirus-1 and feline calicivirus. Subjective clinical scores were recorded on days 0, 3, 7, 10, and 14.

RESULTS

The number of cats for which feline herpesvirus-1 was detected via VI or RT-qPCR assay was generally (albeit not always significantly) lower on day 14, compared with day 0 findings; however, findings on days 0 or 14 did not differ among groups. The number of cats for which feline calicivirus was detected via VI or RT-qPCR assay did not differ significantly between days 0 and 14 for any group. Clinical scores significantly decreased over the 14-day period but did not differ among groups.

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE

In cats with naturally occurring viral keratoconjunctivitis, bilateral ocular administration of high doses of FelFN or HulFN twice daily for 14 days did not improve clinical disease or virus shedding, compared with treatment with saline solution.

Septic lens implantation syndrome in a cat

A 13-year-old female spayed domestic shorthair cat was presented initially for a change in the appearance of the left eye. On initial examination, a small penetrating wound was suspected as the cause for a corneal scar, an anterior cortical incipient cataract and mild iritis. The cat was not re-presented until 1 year later at which time ocular pain was marked. Severe anterior uveitis and glaucoma were diagnosed and the eye enucleated. Histopathology documented intralenticular coccoid bacteria and septic lens implantation syndrome.

Stability of 0.5% cidofovir stored under various conditions for up to 6 months

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effect of time, temperature and storage vial material on the antiviral activity of 0.5% cidofovir solution.

PROCEDURES

Commercial 7.5% cidofovir solution for injection was diluted with normal saline to a 0.5% concentration. Aliquots were stored in plastic and glass vials at 4, -20, and -80 degrees C for 30, 60, 120, and 180 days. Antiviral activity against feline herpesvirus was evaluated in a virus titration assay at time zero (baseline) and at each subsequent time point.

RESULTS

Cidofovir caused a fourfold log reduction in virus titer at baseline and at each time point and for each storage condition (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

0.5% cidofovir demonstrated stable antiviral activity when stored for up to 6 months in glass or plastic, at 4, -20, and -80 degrees C.

Results of diagnostic ophthalmic testing in healthy guinea pigs

OBJECTIVE-To report values for tear production, central corneal touch threshold (CTT), and intraocular pressure (IOP) in healthy guinea pigs and determine results of aerobic bacterial culture and cytologic examination of conjunctival swab specimens. DESIGN-Cross-sectional study. ANIMALS-31 Healthy guinea pigs (62 eyes) of various ages and breeds. PROCEDURES-Tear production was measured by the phenol red thread tear test (PRT) and Schirmer tear test (STT) before and after topical anesthetic application, CTT was measured with an esthesiometer, and IOP was measured by applanation tonometry. RESULTS-Combining data from all eyes, mean +/- SD PRT values before and after topical anesthetic administration were 21.26 +/- 4.19 mm/15 s and 22.47 +/- 3.31 mm/15 s, respectively, and mean IOP was 18.27 +/- 4.55 mm Hg. Median STT values before and after topical anesthetic administration were 3 mm/min (range, 0 to 12 mm/min) and 4 mm/min (range, 0 to 11 mm/min), respectively, and median CTT was 2.0 cm (range, 0.5 to 3.0 cm). Values did not differ between eyes for any test, but significant differences were identified for PRT values between males and females and between values obtained before and after topical anesthetic administration. Common bacterial isolates included Corynebacterium spp, Streptococcus spp, and Staphylococcus spp. Cytologic examination of conjunctival swab specimens revealed mainly basal epithelial cells; lymphocytes were common. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE-Results provided information on values for PRT, STT, CTT, and IOP in healthy guinea pigs and on expected findings for aerobic bacterial culture and cytologic examination of conjunctival swab specimens.

Effects of lambda-carrageenan on in vitro replication of feline herpesvirus and on experimentally induced herpetic conjunctivitis in cats

PURPOSE

To evaluate the inhibitory effect of lambda-carrageenan type IV on feline herpesvirus (FHV)-1 in an in vitro model and in experimentally induced conjunctivitis in vaccinated cats.

METHODS

Standard plaque reduction assay, virus titration, and quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) were used to assess the effect of carrageenan on FHV-1 in vitro. Eighteen adult specific pathogen-free cats, vaccinated against FHV-1 several months earlier, were used to determine the ocular irritative effects of carrageenan, followed by the effect on FHV-1-induced conjunctivitis. Ocular examinations, virus isolation, and partial thromboplastin time (PTT) were evaluated during the study period.

RESULTS

When added before virus adsorption, the 50% inhibitory concentration (IC50) of carrageenan was 5 microg/mL, and the 90% inhibitory concentration (IC90) was 25 microg/mL. When added after virus adsorption, there was no inhibitory effect on plaque formation at any concentration. There was no effect of carrageenan on virus titer. Virus copy numbers assessed by quantitative PCR were significantly but marginally reduced when carrageenan was added before and after virus adsorption. Topical application of carrageenan at 250 microg/mL in cats with FHV-1-induced conjunctivitis resulted in a significant reduction in positive virus isolation samples on day 21 of the study but did not alter clinical signs of disease. There was no adverse effect on PTT values.

CONCLUSIONS

lambda-Carrageenan type IV blocked FHV-1 adsorption in the plaque assay. Carrageenan shortened the time period in which infected cats had positive virus isolation from the conjunctiva but did not alter the clinical course of FHV-1 conjunctivitis in cats.

Ocular melanocytic neoplasia

Tumors of melanocytic origin in ocular tissues are relatively uncommon in dogs and cats, and although many are benign, some have a high potential for metastasis. In addition, even small ocular masses can be significant due to their potential vision-threatening sequelae. Such tumors may occur on the eyelids, on the conjunctival surface, along the limbus, or within the uveal tract. While several similarities exist among these tumors, the prognosis and recommended treatment options vary based on the species affected as well as the location, extent, and histologic characteristics of the tumor. This article reviews the clinical presentation, biologic behavior, and treatment options for eyelid, conjunctival, limbal (epibulbar), and uveal tumors of melanocytic origin in dogs and cats.

Visual outcome in a group of dogs with ocular blastomycosis treated with systemic antifungals and systemic corticosteroids

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the success of the use of systemic corticosteroids and antifungal medications in the treatment of dogs with ocular lesions associated with systemic blastomycosis.

DESIGN

Retrospective study.

ANIMALS STUDIED

Medical records of 25 dogs diagnosed with blastomycosis, via either cytology or histopathology, at the Purdue University Veterinary Teaching Hospital between 1 January 2000 and 1 January 2005, were reviewed.

PROCEDURE

Data collected from the medical records included signalment, presence and progression of ocular lesions, antifungal drugs administered, oral and topical corticosteroid administration, length of follow-up, response to treatment, and visual outcome.

RESULTS

Of the 25 cases reviewed, 12 dogs (19 eyes) with follow-up information were found to have lesions consistent with ocular blastomycosis. Length of follow-up in the 12 cases ranged from 1 month to 31 months with a mean of 9 months. Antifungal therapy for all cases consisted of oral itraconazole (5 mg/kg every 24 h) initially. In seven cases, the antifungal drug administered was changed from itraconazole to oral fluconazole. Two of these also received intravenous amphotericin B, and two received additional treatment with itraconazole. All 12 dogs also received oral prednisone. The dose of oral prednisone utilized ranged from 0.2 mg/kg/day to 1.4 mg/kg/day with a mean of 0.7 mg/kg/day; the duration of oral prednisone administration ranged from 2 weeks to 8.5 months with a mean of 3 months. Topical prednisolone was a component of the treatment of 16 of the 19 eyes. Duration of topical prednisolone treatment ranged from 1 month to 30 months with a mean of 5 months. Lesions not located in the eyes exhibited a positive response to treatment in 11 (92%) of the 12 dogs. Overall, 14/19 (74%) affected eyes were visual at the time of their final recheck. All eyes with mild or moderate lesions and 5/10 (50%) severely affected eyes were visual at their last recorded recheck examination.

CONCLUSIONS

The administration of systemic corticosteroids did not appear to adversely affect the survival rate and might have played a role in preservation of vision in a majority of dogs in this group with ocular blastomycosis.

Assessment of bacterial contamination of three multidose ophthalmic solutions

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the frequency of bacterial contamination of multidose proparacaine hydrochloride, tropicamide, and eyewash bottles used in veterinary ophthalmology examination rooms during normal operating procedures.

METHODS

Three representative bottles each of proparacaine hydrochloride, tropicamide, and purified water eye wash were opened at the same time, numbered, and placed into small animal examination rooms. Doctors, students and technicians who were using the solutions were blinded to the study. Aerobic cultures were obtained at the time of opening (time 0), at 1 week (time 1), and at 2 weeks after opening (time 2) the bottles. The sites cultured included a drop of each solution, the inside of the bottle cap, the tip of the bottle, and the bottle threads and medication residue found in these threads.

RESULTS

Aerobic cultures of tropicamide and proparacaine had no growth of bacteria from any of the evaluated sites. Staphylococcus epidermidis was cultured from the tip of one bottle of eye wash after 1 week.

CONCLUSIONS

We conclude that proparacaine, tropicamide, and eyewash solutions used in veterinary examination rooms are adequately preserved for use in ophthalmic examination. They have a low level of bacterial contamination 1 or 2 weeks after opening when used and stored according to the recommendations of the product manufacturers and previous studies.

In vitro fungistatic and fungicidal activities of silver sulfadiazine and natamycin on pathogenic fungi isolated from horses with keratomycosis

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the in vitro antifungal properties of silver sulfadiazine (SSD) and natamycin against filamentous fungi isolated from eyes of horses with keratomycosis.

SAMPLE POPULATION

Filamentous fungal isolates obtained from eyes of keratomycosis-affected horses.

PROCEDURES

Fungal culture of ocular samples yielded 6 Fusarium spp; 7 Aspergillus spp; and 1 isolate each of Curvularia, Scopulariopsis, Penicillium, and Chrysosporium. For each fungal isolate, minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum fungicidal concentration (MFC) of SSD and natamycin were determined.

RESULTS

For all 17 fungal isolates, SSD MIC distribution ranged from < or = 1 to > 64 microg/mL; MIC50 and MIC90 (MICs at which 50% and 90% of organisms were inhibited) were 4 and 32 microg/mL, respectively. The SSD MFC distribution for all isolates was < or = 1 to > 64 microg/mL; MFC50 and MFC90 (MFCs at which 50% and 90% of organisms were killed) were 8 and > 64 microg/mL, respectively. For all fungal isolates, natamycin MIC distribution ranged from 256 to > 1,000 microg/mL; MIC50 and MIC90 were 512 and > 1,000 microg/mL, respectively. The natamycin MFC distribution for all isolates ranged from 512 to > 1,000 microg/mL; MFC(50) and MFC(90) were each > 1,000 microg/mL.

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE

These in vitro data suggest that SSD is fungicidal against the fungal isolates that were obtained from eyes of horses with keratomycosis and that natamycin is fungicidal against some of the isolates at the drug concentrations evaluated. Silver sulfadiazine may be a therapeutic option for equine keratomycosis.

Ophthalmomyiasis interna anterior in a cat: surgical resolution

A 4-year-old Domestic short-haired cat was presented for severe anterior uveitis in the right eye associated with a Cuterebra spp. larva in the anterior chamber. This report describes successful surgical removal of the parasite with preservation of vision.

Leptospirosis and panuveitis in a dog

A case of panuveitis as a result of leptospiral infection in an 8-year-old Jack Russell Terrier is reported. Mild hyphema, aqueous flare, and partial serous retinal detachments were noted in both eyes on initial ophthalmic examination. The serum microscopic agglutination testing for Leptospira serovarieties revealed titers of 1 : 12 800 for Leptospira canicola and 1 : 200 for Leptospira icterohemorrhagiae. With medical therapy, the panuveitis resolved and functional vision was regained. Four weeks after the initial presentation, convalescent titers were 1 : 200 for L. canicola and 1 : 100 for L. icterohemorrhagiae. The incidence of leptospirosis, along with difficulties diagnosing, and current medical therapies for this disease are also discussed.

Effect of oral administration of L-lysine on conjunctivitis caused by feline herpesvirus in cats

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether oral administration of L-lysine to cats would lessen the severity of conjunctivitis caused by feline herpesvirus (FHV-1).

ANIMALS

8 healthy young adult cats.

PROCEDURE

Cats received oral administration of lysine monohydrochloride (500 mg, q 12 h) or placebo (lactose) beginning 6 hours prior to inoculation of virus. The left conjunctival sac received a 50-microl suspension of FHV-1 grown in cell culture (1.8 X 10(8) tissue culture infective dose50) on day 1. Cats were evaluated and scores given for clinical signs each day for 21 days. Samples for virus isolation were collected from the eye and throat every third day. Plasma lysine and arginine concentrations were measured prior to the study and on days 3, 14, and 22.

RESULTS

Cats that received lysine had less severe conjunctivitis than cats that received placebo. Virus isolation results did not differ between the groups. Plasma lysine concentration was significantly higher in cats that received lysine, compared with control cats, whereas plasma arginine concentrations did not differ between groups.

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Oral administration of 500 mg of lysine to cats was well tolerated and resulted in less severe manifestations of conjunctivitis caused by FHV-1, compared with cats that received placebo. Oral administration of lysine may be helpful in early treatment for FHV-1 infection by lessening the severity of disease.

The Use of Carbon Dioxide Laser for the Ablation of Meibomian Gland Adenomas in Dogs

Twelve eyelid meibomian gland adenomas in dogs were surgically ablated using the carbon dioxide (CO2) laser. The laser site was not sutured. All procedures resulted in complete removal of the adenoma with no recurrences at 6 months. In addition, no dogs developed corneal disease secondary to the procedure, and the cosmetic appearance of the eyelid margins was good at the end of the 6-month study. Based on results of this study, CO2 laser ablation of canine meibomian gland adenomas is an effective alternative to standard surgical removal.

The use of porcine small intestinal submucosa for the repair of full-thickness corneal defects in dogs, cats and horses

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the efficacy of using a porcine small intestinal submucosa (SIS) graft covered by a conjunctival flap for the surgical repair of full-thickness corneal wounds in dogs, cats and horses.

PROCEDURE

All records dating from August 1999 to February 2003 from Purdue University Veterinary Teaching Hospital of patients that had undergone ophthalmic surgical procedures and received a SIS corneal graft for a full-thickness lesion were reviewed. Fifteen cases were identified including six dogs, two cats and seven horses. Requirements for inclusion in this study were that SIS was used as a corneal graft in a full-thickness corneal defect and that the graft was completely covered with a conjunctival flap.

RESULTS

Of the 15 cases, one canine patient had received SIS following removal of an epibulbar melanocytoma. The remaining five canine patients had undergone this surgical procedure for the repair of corneal perforation. The two feline patients had been presented for corneal perforation following chronic ulceration. One equine patient had been presented for a deep melting ulcer, three for stromal corneal abscesses, and three for corneal perforations. Complications encountered postoperatively included aqueous leakage, conjunctival flap dehiscence, synechia, cataract and fibrin in the anterior chamber. Fourteen out of 15 patients were visual at the final re-evaluation.

CONCLUSION

SIS is an inexpensive, easy-to-handle biomaterial that appears to be suitable for the repair of full-thickness corneal wounds in dogs, cats and horses. Results of our study support the conclusion that this relatively new product is an effective alternative to traditional implantation materials utilized in veterinary ophthalmology.

Characterization and purification of acidocin CH5, a bacteriocin produced by Lactobacillus acidophilus CH5

AIMS

To characterize and to purify a bacteriocin produced by Lactobacillus acidophilus strain with its activity restricted to Gram-positive bacteria.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Native acidocin CH5, a bacteriocin produced by L. acidophilus CH5 an isolate from a dairy starter culture forms in MRS (Oxoid, Basingstoke, UK) broth high-molecular weight aggregates which can dissociate into smaller units (retained by 5 kDa membrane) with higher activity. Acidocin CH5 was purified using combinations of chromatographic methods based on hydrophobic and cation exchange principles and the N-terminal region was sequenced.

CONCLUSIONS

Based on our results it is evident that acidocin CH5 belongs, according to bacteriocin classification, to the class II bacteriocins with identical N-terminal amino acid sequence described in the literature previously.

SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPACT OF THE STUDY

The study has provided further data on bacteriocin acidocin CH5 from class II with wide spectrum of antimicrobial activity atypical for bacteriocins produced by L. acidophilus sharing the same homology.

Development of a reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction assay to detect feline herpesvirus-1 latency-associated transcripts in the trigeminal ganglia and corneas of cats that did not have clinical signs of ocular disease

OBJECTIVE

To develop a reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) assay to detect feline herpesvirus-1 (FHV-1) latency-associated transcripts (LATs) in the corneas and trigeminal ganglia of cats that did not have clinical signs of ocular disease.

SAMPLE POPULATION

Corneas and trigeminal ganglia obtained from 21 cats necropsied at the Indiana Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory and 25 cats euthanatized at a humane shelter; none of the cats had a recent history of respiratory tract or ocular disease, and all had normal results for ophthalmic examinations.

PROCEDURE

Both corneas and both trigeminal ganglia were harvested from each cat. An initial PCR assay detected FHV-1 DNA in the corneas and trigeminal ganglia. The RNA was then isolated from samples positive for FHV-1 DNA, and an RT-PCR assay was used to detect LATs.

RESULTS

FHV-1 DNA was detected in 45 of 92 (48.9%) corneas and 38 of 92 (41.3%) trigeminal ganglia. In many samples, the RNA had degraded and RT-PCR assay was not possible. Of the samples subjected to RT-PCR assay, none of the 39 corneas but 4 of 16 trigeminal ganglia had positive results when tested for LATs.

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Analysis of the results indicated that a high percentage of cats that did not have clinical signs of ocular disease had detectable FHV-1 DNA in their corneas and trigeminal ganglia. This study documents that the RT-PCR assay can successfully identify LATs and may serve as a tool to better understand the biologic characteristics of FHV-1 and its relationship to clinical disease.

Dexamethasone-induced exophthalmos in a group of Holstein calves

Six Holstein calves were evaluated for progressive exophthalmos. The affected calves were receiving daily injections of dexamethasone (30 microg/kg subcutaneously twice daily) as part of a metabolic study. The control calves did not exhibit exophthalmos. The ocular examinations were normal except for the exophthalmos, which ranged from mild to marked in severity. Upon postmortem examination, marked deposition of retrobulbar adipose tissue was noted in the affected calves. Dexamethasone administration appears to increase deposition of retrobulbar adipose tissue resulting in a progressive exophthalmos.

Feline herpesvirus

Feline herpesvirus infection is an extremely common disease and leads to ocular problems in a large percentage of affected cats. Feline herpesvirus-1 is maintained within the feline population by ready transmission from cat to cat, ensuring continued exposure of kittens and adults. The virus is similar in structure and pathogenicity to herpes simplex virus in humans. Both viruses are members of the family Herpes-viridae and subfamily Alphaherpesviridae. The hallmark of this family of herpesviruses is latency that develops after primary infection. This factor is clinically important because disease may recur at later points in life without further exposure to the virus. Conjunctivitis and corneal ulcers are particularly common forms of feline herpesvirus-1 recurrence.

Effect of topical administration of 1% morphine sulfate solution on signs of pain and corneal wound healing in dogs

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the effect of topical application of a 1% morphine sulfate solution (MSS) on signs of pain and wound healing in dogs with corneal ulcers and examine normal corneas immunohistochemically for the presence of mu and delta opioid receptors.

ANIMALS

12 dogs.

PROCEDURE

A 7-mm superficial corneal ulcer was surgically created in the right eye (OD) of 10 dogs, after which gentamicin solution and 1% MSS (n = 6) or saline solution (4) was administered topically OD 3 times daily. Blepharospasm, tearing, conjunctival hyperemia, aqueous flare, esthesiometer readings, and pupil size were recorded before and 30 minutes after treatment in all dogs. Ulcer size and days to completion of healing were recorded. Corneas from 4 treated and 3 control dogs were evaluated histologically. Normal canine corneas from 2 dogs not used in the study were evaluated immunohistochemically for the presence of mu and delta opioid receptors.

RESULTS

Dogs treated with MSS had significantly less blepharospasm and lower esthesiometer readings than did control dogs. Duration of ulcer healing and findings of histologic evaluation of corneas did not differ between groups. Numerous delta and infrequent mu opioid receptors were identified in the corneal epithelium and anterior stroma of normal corneas.

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Topical use of 1% MSS in dogs with corneal ulcers provided analgesia and did not interfere with normal wound healing. Both mu and delta opioid receptors were identified in normal corneas of dogs, although the mu receptors were present only in small numbers.

Use of a caudal auricular axial pattern flap in three cats and one dog following orbital exenteration

Orbital exenteration accompanied by wide eyelid excision in the cat and dog may leave a defect that cannot be closed in a primary fashion. This report describes the use of a caudal auricular axial pattern flap to effect closure following orbital exenteration in three cats and one dog. The most common complication was distal flap necrosis, which necessitated a second surgery in two patients.

Changes in intraocular pressure and pupil size following intramuscular administration of hydromorphone hydrochloride and acepromazine in clinically normal dogs

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effects of intramuscularly administered hydromorphone hydrochloride and acepromazine on intraocular pressure (IOP) and pupil size (PS).

ANIMALS STUDIED

Seventeen dogs free of clinically relevant ocular abnormalities.

PROCEDURE

Measurements of IOP and PS were obtained and the dogs were injected intramuscularly with hydromorphone (0.04-0.08 mg/kg) and acepromazine (0.04 mg/kg). Measurements of IOP and PS were repeated 10 min and 25 min later.

RESULTS

Though a decreasing trend in IOP values was demonstrated, no significant difference was noted in IOP from the initial examination to examination following intramuscular administration of hydromorphone and acepromazine. Significant miosis was present in 16 of 17 dogs at 10 min and 25 min following administration of hydromorphone and acepromazine.

CONCLUSION

Hydromorphone (0.04-0.08 mg/kg) and acepromazine (0.04 mg/kg) cause significant miosis in dogs at 10 and 25 min following intramuscular administration.

Antifungal activity of sodium acetate and Lactobacillus rhamnosus

The inhibition of molds by sodium acetate in deMan Rogosa Sharpe (MRS) medium, along with the antifungal activity of Lactobacillus rhamnosus VT1, was studied by the slope agar plate method. MRS agar prepared with and without sodium acetate was used as the agar substrate. A total of 42 strains of Aspergillus, Penicillium, Fusarium, Alternaria, Cladosporium, and Rhizopus were used to compare sensitivities to the inhibitory activity of sodium acetate and L. rhamnosus VT1. It was found that sodium acetate in MRS medium affected the growth of 33 of the 42 mold strains tested to various degrees. The highest sensitivity to sodium acetate was shown by strains of Fusarium, followed by strains of Penicillium, Aspergillus, and Rhizopus. L. rhamnosus VT1 also inhibited mold growth. A significant finding was that sodium acetate and L. rhamnosus VT1 in combination exhibited a possible synergistic action. Thirty-nine of the 42 mold strains tested were completely inhibited by the presence of both antifungal agents. This finding confirms that sodium acetate, a basic component of commercial MRS medium, has strong antifungal properties, and this must be taken into consideration when evaluating the antifungal activity of Lactobacillus cultures grown in MRS broth.

Laser flaremetric evaluation of experimentally induced blood-aqueous barrier disruption in cats

OBJECTIVES

To determine whether aqueous humor flare, measured by use of laser flaremetry, was proportional to aqueous humor protein concentration and to use laser flaremetry to evaluate disruption of the blood-aqueous barrier (BAB) in cats.

ANIMALS

30 healthy adult cats.

PROCEDURE

Laser flaremetry values for all eyes were compared with aqueous humor protein concentrations determined by use of a Coomassie blue microprotein assay. Laser flaremetry was then performed on both eyes before (0 hours) and 4, 8, and 26 hours after initiation of topical application of 2% pilocarpine (q 8 h) to 1 eye of 9 cats or paracentesis of the anterior chamber of 1 eye of 8 cats. Intraocular pressure and pupil size were also determined. Aqueous humor protein concentration was extrapolated from flare values by use of linear regression.

RESULTS

There was a linear relationship between flare values and aqueous humor protein concentrations. Topical application of 2% pilocarpine and paracentesis of the anterior chamber caused a breakdown of the BAB that was detected by use of laser flaremetry. The highest mean flare readings after application of pilocarpine or paracentesis were 24.4 and 132.8 pc/ms, respectively, which corresponded to aqueous humor protein concentrations of 85.5 and 434.9 mg/dl, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Paracentesis of the anterior chamber resulted in a more severe breakdown of the BAB in cats than topical application of 2% pilocarpine. Laser flaremetry may be a useful clinical method to detect increases in aqueous flare and, hence, disruptions of the BAB in cats.