Tumor-like lymphoplasmacytic conjunctivitis in the third eyelid in a dog

This report aims to describe a case of tumor-like lymphoplasmacytic conjunctivitis in a 7-year-old spayed-female Pomeranian. On complete ophthalmic examination, a mass with papillary projections was noted on the bulbar surface of the right third eyelid. Debulking of the mass was performed while preserving as much of the third eyelid as possible. On the histopathological examination, the mass was diagnosed as lymphoplasmacytic conjunctivitis with mild epithelial hyperplasia. Although a slight regrowth of the mass was noted 3 weeks after surgery, intralesional injection of triamcinolone acetonide led to its disappearance. There was no further recurrence after 5 months.

Chlamydia suis survival in dust: First insights

Chlamydia (C.) suis, a zoonotic intracellular bacterium, is described as a causative agent for conjunctivitis, particularly in nursery and fattening pigs. Chlamydiaceae are claimed to survive drying and to persist in dust. The objective of this study was to evaluate the viability of Chlamydia in dust sampled in a fattening pig farm with a high appearance of chlamydial-induced conjunctivitis. Dust was collected and stored at room temperature. To evaluate bacterial load and survival over time, quantitative PCR (Chlamydiaceae, C. suis) and isolation in cell culture were performed every week for up to 16 weeks. While qPCR results remained highly positive with consistent bacterial loads between 103 and 104 copy numbers/100 μL eluate over a period of 16 weeks and even after 40 weeks, it was not possible to isolate Chlamydia except for the initial sample. These results show only short-term viability of C. suis in dust. This is an important information regarding reduction of chlamydial loads in pig farms and risk for pigs and people to get infected via dust.

Ocular lesions in cats diagnosed with systemic sporotrichosis

OBJECTIVES

To describe the most common ocular lesions and demonstrate the frequency of ophthalmic involvement in a group of cats with systemic sporotrichosis.

ANIMALS STUDIED

Two hundred seventy-four cats diagnosed with systemic sporotrichosis. The inclusion criteria included previous positive cytopathological examination, histopathological examination, or fungal culture.

PROCEDURES

In a prospective case-control study, 274 cats diagnosed with systemic sporotrichosis underwent ophthalmic evaluation and received treatment for systemic sporotrichosis. Of these animals, 63 had ocular abnormalities which were recorded, and conjunctivitis was scored from 0 to 5. Diagnostic techniques utilized included fungal culture, as well as cytopathological (10 eyes; 10 cats), and histopathological examination of the palpebral conjunctiva and eyes (2 eyes).

RESULTS

Cytopathological and histopathological examination of the conjunctiva, as well as fungal culture, proved to be important tests for the detection of Sporothrix sp. Five cats without the evidence of ophthalmic abnormalities also had a positive fungal culture. The identified ocular lesions in animals with systemic sporotrichosis included increased serous discharge (79 eyes; 53 cats), blepharoconjunctivitis (33 eyes; 25 cats), conjunctivitis (39 eyes, 20 cats), blepharitis (9 eyes; 8 cats), uveitis (5 eyes; 3 cats), and Florida keratopathy-like lesions (2 eyes; 1 cat).

CONCLUSION

Sporotrichosis should be considered a differential diagnosis for conjunctivitis and blepharoconjunctivitis, especially in endemic areas. Fungal culture and cytopathology of ocular discharge and histopathological examinations of the conjunctiva are important for the diagnosis of ophthalmic sporotrichosis, although not all cats underwent laboratory testing in this study. Ocular discharge could be a source of contagion transmission.

A case of lipogranulomatous conjunctivitis in a horse

OBJECTIVE

To describe a case of lipogranulomatous conjunctivitis in a horse.

ANIMAL STUDIED

A client-owned 12-year-old Standardbred gelding presenting with chronic conjunctivitis and palpebral masses.

METHODS

Complete ophthalmic examination, surgical excision, histopathology, and bacterial culture of biopsy samples were performed.

RESULTS

Upper and lower eyelids of both eyes were affected, with multiple yellow-to-white nodules on the palpebral conjunctiva, adjacent to the eyelid margin. Nodule removal was achieved via partial tarsal plate excision. Histopathological examination revealed granulomatous inflammation and large droplets of presumed free lipid in the conjunctival lamina propria. The animal was diagnosed with lipogranulomatous conjunctivitis. No postoperative ocular discomfort was observed for months; however, 3 years later, new conjunctival nodules were noticed, requiring a second surgical procedure on three of the eyelids. Transient entropion in the left lower eyelid was observed 2 months after the second surgery, and no recurrence of conjunctival nodules was observed after 18 months of follow-up.

CONCLUSION

To our knowledge, this is the first report of lipogranulomatous conjunctivitis in horses.

Ocular Surface Disease of Rabbits

Rabbits have become a popular house pet that is encountered with increasing frequency in small animal veterinary practice. The unique anatomy of the rabbit predisposes them to developing surface ocular problems including the development of dacryocystitis, as well as conjunctivitis and keratitis. This article endeavors to give an updated outline of the various conditions affecting the rabbit ocular surface, with emphasis on diagnosis and treatment.

Ocular Examination and Corneal Surface Disease in the Ferret

This article provides a brief, clinically relevant review of corneal surface disease in the ferret. A description of the ophthalmic examination of the ferret is provided. Stepwise descriptions of the most common ophthalmic abnormalities are provided, along with common rule-outs.

Ocular Surface Disease in Reptiles

In this article, ocular examination techniques are reviewed in the context of the reptilian patient. Subsequently, ocular surface anatomy and diseases are discussed. Sections for 4 of the 5 Reptilia orders are included: lizards, chelonians, crocodilians, and snakes. Literature pertaining to both wild and captive animals is included.

Features and outcome of a glomerulonephropathy associated with ligneous conjunctivitis in a Doberman pinscher dog

This report describes a 3-year-old female Doberman pinscher dog with ligneous conjunctivitis and a protein-losing nephropathy not associated with underlying plasminogen deficiency. Glomerulonephropathy in this circumstance had a positive outcome.

Retrospective study and review of ocular radiation side effects following external-beam Cobalt-60 radiation therapy in 37 dogs and 12 cats

This retrospective study evaluated the ocular side effects of cancer-bearing dogs and cats treated with external-beam Cobalt-60 (Co-60) radiation in which one or both orbit(s) were included in the radiation field. A total of 37 dogs and 12 cats presented to the Ontario Veterinary College during the 10-year study period (1999-2009) were evaluated. The radiation protocols ranged from a maximum of 60 Gray (Gy) in 24 fractions for curative intent to a minimum of 8 Gy in 1 fraction for palliative treatment. The main ocular side effect reported in both dogs and cats was conjunctivitis (79% and 55%, respectively). Other common ocular side effects included eyelid lesions in dogs (44%), ulcerative keratitis in cats (36%), and keratoconjunctivitis sicca in both dogs and cats (44% and 27%, respectively). The high incidence of ocular side effects in both patient populations indicates a need for regular ophthalmic examinations as a component of routine follow-up for radiation therapy involving the orbit. Radiation damage to ocular tissues is also reviewed.

Ulcerative blepharitis and conjunctivitis in adult dairy cows and association with Moraxella bovoculi

Nine lactating dairy cows were evaluated because of eye lesions. Examination revealed mild to severe ulceration of the lower and/or upper eyelids, mild to severe swelling surrounding affected eyes, and profuse lacrimation. Lesions typically affected 1 eye, and involved the eyelid skin and conjunctiva. Oxytetracycline treatment led to cure within 2 wk.

Feline herpesvirus 1 and Chlamydophila felis prevalence in cats with chronic conjunctivitis

The prevalence of Chlamydophila felis and Feline Herpesvirus type 1 was investigated in 30 cats with chronic conjunctivitis, with use of conjunctival swabs and conventional polymerase chain reaction (PCR). In cats with chronic conjunctivitis the DNA of C. felis and FHV-1 was detected in 2 of 30 cats (6.7%) and in 10 of 30 animals (33.3%), respectively. One case of FHV-1 DNA, and none of C. felis was found in control group. There was no case of co-infection with both pathogens.

Oral supplementation with L-lysine did not prevent upper respiratory infection in a shelter population of cats

Cats in animal shelters are highly susceptible to infection by feline herpesvirus (FHV) by virtue of their stress and close proximity to other cats. Animal shelters take several different approaches to prevent FHV-related upper respiratory infections (URIs), including empirically treating all cats with L-lysine, a supplement believed to prevent the replication of FHV and, therefore, manifestations of herpesvirus infections. In this study we tested oral supplementation of L-lysine as a means to prevent URIs. One hundred and forty-four cats were treated with L-lysine in a small amount of canned food once daily. A 'no treatment' group of 147 cats received no lysine during the course of the study. The development of conjunctivitis or URI was tracked between the two groups. In all measures, there was no effect between the two groups, suggesting that lysine was not able to prevent URI or conjunctivitis in our shelter situation. Cats entering shelters encounter stressors that may make them more susceptible to FHV reactivation or infection. Infection control and control of fomite transmission are also key to keeping cats healthy in a group housing situation. The finding that lysine did not prevent URI in this animal shelter suggests that shelters may better use their resources by finding ways to decrease stress among their feline population, focusing on proper infection control measures, and limiting fomite transmission of disease.

Prevalence of feline herpesvirus 1, Chlamydophila felis, and Mycoplasma spp DNA in conjunctival cells collected from cats with and without conjunctivitis

OBJECTIVE

To use PCR assays to determine the prevalence of feline herpesvirus 1 (FHV-1), Chlamydophila felis, and Mycoplasma spp DNA in conjunctival cells collected from cats with and without conjunctivitis; to compare results of conventional and real-time fluorogenic PCR assays for amplification of FHV-1 DNA; and to determine whether copy numbers of FHV-1 DNA are correlated with conjunctivitis.

ANIMALS

55 cats with active conjunctivitis, 39 healthy cats that never had conjunctivitis, and 32 cats with a history of conjunctivitis that had been resolved for at least 3 months.

PROCEDURES

Samples were obtained by rolling cotton-tipped applicators on the ventral conjunctiva of awake cats treated topically with proparacaine. The DNA was extracted from the swab specimens and assessed in PCR assays to detect DNA of FHV-1 (fluorogenic PCR assay and conventional PCR assay), Mycoplasma spp (conventional PCR assay), and C felis (conventional PCR assay).

RESULTS

Overall prevalence rates of FHV-1, C felis, and Mycoplasma spp as assessed by the conventional PCR assays were 6.7%, 3.2%, and 9.6%, respectively. Percentage concordance between conventional PCR and fluorogenic PCR assays for FHV-1 was 92.5%. There were no significant differences among the 3 groups of cats for the mean copy number of FHV-1 divided by the copy number of glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase.

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Mycoplasma spp were the most prevalent organism detected and was associated with conjunctivitis. This study could not confirm that there are increased copy numbers of FHV-1 DNA in cats with conjunctivitis, compared with the copy numbers for cats without conjunctivitis.

Severe chemosis caused by nephrotic syndrome in a goat: a case report

A 3-year old female goat with nephrotic syndrome was presented because of severe bilateral chemosis. The diagnosis was based on clinical findings, decreased packed cell volume, increased serum urea and creatinine, decreased serum protein and protein loss via the urinary tract. At post mortem examination, a chronic glomerulonephritis and interstitial nephritis were found. In addition to severe conjunctival oedema, ascites and subcutaneous oedema in the region of the larynx were noted. Immunohistochemistry for the detection of chlamydial antigen in the conjunctiva was negative. This is the first report of severe chemosis caused by nephrotic syndrome in a goat.

Diagnosis and treatment of ocular coccidioidomycosis in a female captive chimpanzee (Pan troglodytes): a case study

We report here the first documented case of ocular coccidioidomycosis in a chimpanzee (Pan troglodytes). In 1996, a 12-year-old female chimpanzee was undergoing treatment with an experimental triazole, BayR3783, for coccidioidomycosis when she was diagnosed with severe conjunctivitis in the right eye. Subsequent development of a coccidioidal granuloma of the ventral conjunctiva and anterior uvea was noted over the next several months, distorting the lens, iris, pupil, and sclera and progressing to uveitis. Treatment with BayR3783 and subconjunctival injections of triamcinolone were successful in reducing the ocular mass, but extensive damage was done to the lens and cornea. This case study provides an interesting comparison to ocular coccidioidomycosis cases observed in both humans and canines.

Schirmer tear test values and tear film break-up times in cats with conjunctivitis

OBJECTIVES

(1) To document tear film break-up time (TFBUT) in a group of cats with conjunctivitis; (2) to determine if TFBUTs from cats with conjunctivitis vary significantly from previously established normal values for TFBUT in young cats without ocular disease; (3) to determine if a correlation exists between Schirmer tear test (STT) values and TFBUTs in cats with conjunctivitis; (4) to determine if the TFBUTs in cats with conjunctivitis are influenced by the detection of DNA from feline herpes virus-type 1 (FHV-1), Chlamydophila felis, Mycoplasma spp., and feline calicivirus.

ANIMALS STUDIED

Fourteen cats between the ages of 0.8 years to 12 years with active, untreated conjunctivitis and without active keratitis or other ocular or systemic abnormalities were included in this study. Procedures Complete ophthalmic examinations, including TFBUT, were performed on all cats. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) screening for FHV-1, Chlamydophila felis, Mycoplasma spp., and feline calicivirus was performed on conjunctival swabs from affected eyes and blood samples from all cats.

RESULTS

Mean TFBUT for cats in this study was 8.9 (+/- 4.8) s in the right eye (OD) and 8.1 (+/- 4.6) s in the left eye (OS). No correlation existed between mean TFBUTs and mean STT values OD or OS. Conjunctival swabs from seven cats (n = 9 eyes) tested positive via PCR for one of the above infectious agents. Blood samples from nine cats tested positive for FHV-1. Mean TFBUTs for cats from which the DNA from FHV-1 was isolated from the blood were significantly lower than mean TFBUTs for cats from which no such DNA was isolated from the blood.

CONCLUSIONS

In this study, the mean TFBUT in cats with conjunctivitis was significantly lower than previously established values for clinically healthy cats. This supports the theory that qualitative tear film deficiency, and thus tear film instability, may play a role in the pathogenesis of feline conjunctivitis. Qualitative tear film deficiency may predispose to the development of conjunctivitis or may occur secondarily to this condition.

Oral doxycycline, niacinamide and prednisolone used to treat bilateral nodular granulomatous conjunctivitis of the third eyelid in an Australian Kelpie dog

A 5-year-old, female neutered, Australian Kelpie presented with a 2-month history of dramatic bilateral erythematous thickening of the third eyelids. Ophthalmic examination demonstrated raised, pink to red, irregular thickening of the entire palpebral surface of both third eyelids. There were no other ocular abnormalities. A surgical biopsy was taken from each third eyelid. Histopathologic examination revealed sheets of macrophages, plasma cells, lymphocytes, and occasional fibroblasts and neutrophils infiltrating the third eyelid stroma. A diagnosis of chronic granulomatous conjunctivitis was made. Grossly and histopathologically this case closely resembles previously described cases of nodular granulomatous conjunctivitis involving the third eyelids of Collie dogs. This report describes an unusual case of nodular granulomatous conjunctivitis isolated to the third eyelids in an Australian Kelpie. Resolution of the condition was achieved with a combination of oral doxycycline, niacinamide and prednisolone.

Conjunctival swab cytology from a guinea pig: it's elementary!

Three 3-month-old guinea pigs (Cavia porcellus) were evaluated for purulent ocular discharge. Conjunctival swabs were obtained for cytologic evaluation of Wright's-Giemsa-stained preparations. The specimen from the most severely affected guinea pig consisted primarily of karyolytic neutrophils and small lymphocytes. Epithelial cells occasionally were observed that contained intracytoplasmic coccoid basophilic organisms, 0.5-1.5 microm in diameter. The intraepithelial inclusions were most consistent with Chlamydia sp elementary and reticulate bodies. Specimens from the other 2 guinea pigs had a similar inflammatory response, but organisms were not observed. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis of a conjunctival swab from the most severely affected guinea pig was positive for C psittaci, which also is referred to as Chlamydophila caviae, immunotype 8, formerly known as the guinea pig inclusion conjunctivitis strain of C psittaci. Chlamydial conjunctivitis is a common problem in guinea pig populations, with C caviae being specific for this species. Cytologic identification of elementary or reticulate bodies within epithelial cells is diagnostic for the organism in Giemsa-stained preparations. However, PCR is an important complementary tool when organisms are not observed and for accurate classification of the Chlamydia species.

Feline Chlamydiosis

Chlamydiae are an important cause of acute and chronic conjunctivitis in cats. Until recently, only one organism was thought to infect cats, Chlamydophila felis (previously Chlamydia psittaci var. felis). Recently, other Chlamydia-like organisms belonging to the family Parachlamydiaceae, which comprises organisms that reside and proliferate within free-living amoeba, have been identified in cats with neutrophilic and eosinophilic conjunctivitis. The relative importance of these organisms and their amoebic hosts requires investigation. There is also weak evidence that chlamydiae may also be capable of causing reproductive tract disease and lameness in cats. Diagnosis of chlamydial conjunctivitis requires use of specialized culture techniques or the polymerase chain reaction. The antibiotic of choice to treat these infections is doxycycline; azithromycin is less effective. All cats in the household should be treated simultaneously. The zoonotic potential of these organisms appears low, but some precaution is warranted when handling affected cats.

Effects of Mycoplasma gallisepticum on reproductive success in house finches

Long known as a pathogen of poultry, Mycoplasma gallisepticum (MG) was first detected in house finches in 1994. The disease rapidly spread throughout the eastern United States and Canada and was associated with debilitating disease and high mortality in house finches. However, in the late 1990s, the proportion of infected finches dying as a result of infection with MG decreased, and asymptomatic infection was more common among wild birds than in the past. We documented MG infections in breeding house finches and concluded that adults of both sexes transmit the infection to dependent young, probably after hatch. MG infections of breeding adults occurred late in the breeding season and were found in birds completing significantly more nests than birds that never tested positive for MG, implying that higher rates of reproduction carry a cost in the form of increased risk of infection. We found evidence of an MG-induced delay in dispersal of nestlings from their natal area and demonstrated a significant impact of infection on nestling growth.

Spontaneous Ophthalmic Diseases in 586 New Zealand White Rabbits

The purpose of this study was to investigate spontaneous eye disease in New Zealand White (NZW) rabbits, which are commonly used for toxicity tests, and to provide reference materials for pharmaceutical companies and research centers. A total of 586 NZW rabbits were randomly chosen without sex preference and were examined using ocular equipment, including a direct ophthalmoscope, an indirect ophthalmoscope, a slit-lamp biomicroscope, a focal illuminator, and a fundus camera. This study showed that the incidence rate of temporary cataracts, regarded as a change within normal variation, was 0.5% in the NZW rabbits. Regarding abnormal ophthalmic disease, blepharitis was the most commonly observed ocular disease. Other findings included cataract, conjunctivitis, choroidal hypoplasia, keratitis, corneal scarring, eyelid laceration, posterior synechiae, uveitis, dacryocystitis, and persistent pupillary membrane. In total, the incidence rate of ophthalmic diseases was 9.6%. Based on sex and age distributions, females had more ocular diseases than males, and rabbits were less susceptible to eye diseases as they got older. In this study, photographs were taken to document findings, such as normal fundus, normal variations, ophthalmic disease, and histopathologic examination.

Cytologic findings, and feline herpesvirus DNA and Chlamydophila felis antigen detection rates in normal cats and cats with conjunctival and corneal lesions

Samples were collected from 36 cats with feline herpesvirus (FHV-1)-related ocular disease (conjunctivitis, epithelial or stromal keratitis, or corneal sequestration), and 17 cats without ocular changes. Corneoconjunctival swabs, scrapings and biopsies were tested in various combinations for presence of FHV-1 DNA using single round (sr) polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and nested PCR (nPCR). Additional swabs from the inferior conjunctival fornix were tested by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay for Chlamydophila felis antigen. Cytologic evaluation was carried out on conjunctival (cats with conjunctivitis) and corneal (cats with keratitis) cytobrush preparations. FHV-1 DNA was detected by PCR in 14 (39%) cats with ocular disease and 1 (6%) of the control group. Agreement between srPCR and nPCR results was significant (P < 0.01). FHV-1 DNA was detected in 3/7 cats with conjunctivitis, 5/6 cats with epithelial keratitis, 3/11 cats with stromal keratitis, and 3/12 cats with corneal sequestration. There was a significant association (P = 0.0027) between viral presence and epithelial keratitis. However, no significant association was found between viral presence and conjunctivitis (P = 0.059), stromal keratitis (P = 0.15), or corneal sequestration (P = 0.18). With respect to FHV-1 DNA detection, intersample agreement was significant (P < 0.03). No sampling technique seemed more likely than another to harvest detectable viral DNA, except for cats with corneal sequestrum in which viral DNA was not detected using corneoconjunctival swabs. FHV-1 DNA was detected in 6/9 samples with intranuclear inclusion bodies and in 6/7 cats with eosinophils on cytologic examination. All samples tested negative for C. felis antigen.

A granulomatous conjunctivitis associated with Morexella phenylpyruvica in an ostrich (Struthio camelus)

The aim of study was to evaluate a case of granulomatous conjunctivitis, clinically and pathologically, in the right eye of a 2-year-old, female ostrich. A mass measuring 5 cm x 3 cm x 4 cm was removed surgically from the eye of the ostrich. Morexella phenylpyruvica was recovered from the mass. On histopathological examination, hyperplasia or squamous metaplasia in some area of conjunctival palpebra, and a granulomatous inflammation in the submucosa were observed. The lesion was described as a granulomatous conjunctivitis caused by M. phenylpyruvica. The lesion was located in the lower eyelid conjunctiva and was not only restricted to the gl. lacrimalis, but also present in the connective tissue. After excision of the mass, the ostrich was treated with topical and systemic antibiotics and corticosteroid. The ostrich recovered fully and the function of the eye appeared to be normal.

Granulomatous conjunctivitis in an ostrich

Ostriches lack meibom glands, but have small lacrimal glands ventral to the lateral canthus, with ductules that open into the inside of the lower eyelid. Chalazion is a chronic granulomatous inflammation of the meibom glands that may develop from blockage of the ductules into the conjunctiva. A 2-year-old female ostrich presented with chronic granulomatous conjunctivitis, with clinical and histopathologic findings similar to chalazion of other species. The granulomatous dacryoadenitic mass was excised and no recurrence occurred at 4 months. This is the first case of chronic granulomatous conjunctivitis reported in the ostrich.

Prevalence of Chlamydophila felis and Feline Herpesvirus 1 in Cats with Conjunctivitis in Northern Italy

The prevalence of Chlamydophila felis and feline herpesvirus 1 (FHV-1) infection in cats with conjunctivitis in northern Italy was investigated by conventional polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing. In cats with conjunctivitis, C felis and FHV-1 were detected in 14 of 70 (20%) and in 23 of 70 (33%) animals, respectively. None of the 35 control cats were positive for C felis, whereas 7 (20%) of these cats were positive for FHV-1. Mixed infections were present in 5 of 70 cats (7%). Cats positive for C felis were significantly younger than control animals (P = .02), whereas no significant age differences were observed between FHV-1-positive cats and control cats (P = .41) or between FHV-1-positive animals and C felis-positive animals (P = .16). Cats sampled during acute-phase conjunctivitis were also investigated for the presence of C felis by conjunctival scrapings. In this acute phase, substantial agreement was found when comparing the results of the 2 methods (K = .80). The association between PCR results and conjunctivitis was evaluated for the 2 pathogens. The presence of C felis was significantly associated with conjunctivitis (P = .004), whereas the detection of FHV-1 did not significantly correlate with the clinical sign (P = .25), suggesting that, by itself. PCR is not suitable for the diagnosis of FHV-1-related conjunctivitis.

Avipox sp. in a colony of gray-crowned rosy finches (Leucosticte tephrocotis)

Members of a wild-caught colony of 16 gray-crowned rosy finches (Leucosticte tephrocotis) were presented with dermal and mucosal lesions, anorexia, emaciation, lethargy, and sudden death. Lesions included dermatitis, conjunctivitis, and glossitis. Skin scrapings from and bacterial culture of dermal lesions yielded Staphylococcus aureus and Candida albicans. Necropsy and histologic examination revealed characteristic epidermal and mucosal pox lesions, with the presence of characteristic Bollinger body intracellular inclusions. Electron microscopy (EM) provided confirmation of pox virus infection. This epornitic resulted in the death or euthanasia of 12 birds (75% morbidity and associated mortality) and was brought to conclusion through culling of affected birds. The source of infection remains unknown, although multiple modes of introduction exist. Similar epornitics may be prevented through indoor, species-specific housing, and quarantine. Vaccination and antiparasitic treatment may reduce the risk of disease spread.

Experimental infection of recent field isolates of feline herpesvirus type 1

Two field isolates of feline herpesvirus type 1 (FHV-1) designated as 00-015 and 00-035, were obtained from cats diagnosed as feline viral rhinotracheitis (FVR) in Japan. To analyze the character of recent FHV-1, these two isolates and our laboratory strain C7301 were inoculated experimentally to specific-pathogen-free cats. Although all cats showed typical FVR symptoms, more severe clinical symptoms were observed on cats infected with the isolates 00-015 and 00-035 compared with those of C7301-infected cats. Severe ocular lesions including conjunctivitis were found in the cats infected with the isolates, indicating that the recent FHV-1 has a potential to induce severe FVR symptoms including ocular lesions.

Detection of Chlamydophila felis and feline herpesvirus by multiplex real-time PCR analysis

Chlamydophila felis and feline herpesvirus (FHV) are pathogens commonly associated with feline respiratory and ocular disease. A real-time multiplex PCR assay was developed to allow detection of these organisms, together with feline 28S ribosomal DNA, in a single tube. Of 538 ocular swab samples tested, 123 were positive for FHV, 97 were positive for C. felis, and 16 were positive for both pathogens.

Efficacy of oral supplementation with L-lysine in cats latently infected with feline herpesvirus

OBJECTIVE

To examine the effects of orally administered L-lysine on clinical signs of feline herpesvirus type 1 (FHV-1) infection and ocular shedding of FHV-1 in latently infected cats.

ANIMALS

14 young adult, FHV-1-naive cats.

PROCEDURE

Five months after primary conjunctival inoculation with FHV-1, cats were rehoused and assigned to receive 400 mg of L-lysine in food once daily for 30 days or food only. On day 15, all cats received methylprednisolone to induce viral reactivation. Clinical signs of infection were graded, and viral shedding was assessed by a polymerase chain reaction assay throughout our study. Peak and trough plasma amino acid concentrations were assessed on day 30.

RESULTS

Fewer cats and eyes were affected by conjunctivitis, and onset of clinical signs of infection was delayed on average by 7 days in cats receiving L-lysine, compared with cats in the control group; however, significant differences between groups were not demonstrated. Significantly fewer viral shedding episodes were identified in the treatment group cats, compared with the control group cats, after rehousing but not following corticosteroid-induced viral reactivation. Mean plasma L-lysine concentration was significantly increased at 3 hours but not at 24 hours after L-lysine administration. Plasma arginine concentration was not significantly altered.

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Once daily oral administration of 400 mg of L-lysine to cats latently infected with FHV-1 was associated with reduced viral shedding following changes in housing and husbandry but not following corticosteroid administration. This dose caused a significant but short-term increase in plasma L-lysine concentration without altering plasma arginine concentration or inducing adverse clinical effects.

Hemangiosarcoma of the third eyelid in a cat

A case of hemangiosarcoma of the third eyelid in a 15-year-old Domestic Short-haired cat is reported. A small red mass protruding from the anterior surface of the third eyelid in the left eye was present. Only mild bilateral conjunctivitis and nuclear sclerosis were revealed on initial ophthalmic examination. After anti-inflammatory treatment, surgery and cryotherapy were performed. On histopathologic examination the mass was located just beneath the conjunctival epithelium, suggesting that the conjunctiva was the tissue of origin. The tumor showed high cellularity and was composed of pleomorphic spindle and polygonal cells arranged in interlacing bundles and solid sheets. The presence of slit-like spaces between tumor cells containing erythrocytes demonstrated the vascular differentiation. Mitotic activity was moderate, but atypical mitoses were detected. The surgical area healed uneventfully and after 7 months there was no recurrence. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first report of conjunctival hemangiosarcoma of the third eyelid in a cat.

Morbidity and mortality of reptiles admitted to the Wildlife Center of Virginia, 1991 to 2000

Medical records from 694 reptiles admitted to the Wildlife Center of Virginia (WCV; Waynesboro, Virginia, USA) from 1991 to 2000 were reviewed to determine causes of morbidity and mortality. Eighteen species were represented but the majority of cases were four species; eastern box turtle (Terrapene carolina) (66%), eastern painted turtle (Chrysemys picta) (11%), common snapping turtle (Chelydra serpentina) (10%), and rat snake (Elaphe sp.) (6%). There was a significant increase in reptile cases during the study period both in absolute number and in proportion to the total caseload. Trauma (74%) was the most frequent cause of morbidity and mortality followed by unknown or undetermined (13%), aural abscessation (7%), infectious diseases (2%), and one nutritional disorder (0.1%). In addition, 3% of the cases were healthy animals that had been removed from the wild and consequently brought to the WCV. Causes of morbidity and mortality differed between the four most numerous species. Impact with a motor vehicle was the most frequent cause of trauma for eastern box turtles, eastern painted turtles, and common snapping turtles; however, garden-equipment-related trauma was the most frequent cause for rat snakes. Aural abscessation was only seen in eastern box turtles. Eighty percent of cases occurred between May and September and 65% occurred within the five counties closest to the WCV. The majority of morbidity and mortality was the result of human activities. The expanding human population in Virginia likely will continue to have an impact on the health of wild reptiles.

Occurrence of conjunctivitis, sinusitis and upper region tracheitis in Japanese quail (Coturnix coturnix japonica), possibly caused by Mycoplasma gallisepticum accompanied by Cryptosporidium sp. infection

On a farm raising approximately 75,000 Japanese quail (Coturnix coturnix japonica) for egg production, the diseased quail showed clinical signs of swelling of the head, nasal discharge, increased lacrimation, and decreased egg production. The flock experienced a mortality rate of 5.7% per day. Macroscopic observation revealed large, gelatinous masses of caseous exudate in the sinuses, egg peritonitis, and airsacculitis. Microscopically, non-purulent or purulent inflammation accompanied by lymphoid hyperplastic tissue with germinal centers was observed in the oculofacial respiratory mucosa. The developing stage of the lesions was abscess formation. In the investigation of pathogens, antigens to Mycoplasma gallisepticum and Pasteurella multocida serotype D were immunolabeled on and demonstrated in the mucosal membranes. In addition, P. multocida, Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus sp., and Streptococcus sp. were isolated from the infraorbital sinuses, and Mycoplasma isolated from a diseased bird was confirmed as M. gallisepticum by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Furthermore, Cryptosporidium sp. was frequently found in the brush border. Serological, bacteriological and PCR examinations, some with negative outcomes, were carried out concerning microbes that are known to cause swollen heads in birds (Haemophilus paragallinarum, Newcastle disease virus and turkey rhinotracheitis virus). The average concentration of ammonia fumes in the cages was 30.6 parts/106, which suggests that the high levels of ammonia fumes promoted infection and multiplication of M. gallisepticum in the quail, and that the clinical disease then worsened due to mixed infection with M. gallisepticum and Cryptosporidium sp. or other bacteria.

An etiological investigation of domestic cats with conjunctivitis and upper respiratory tract disease in Japan

Chlamydophila felis (C. felis), feline herpesvirus-1 (FHV-1) and feline calicivirus (FCV) were detected in 39 (59.1%), 11 (16.7%) and 14 (21.2%) cats respectively, from 66 domestic cats presented with conjunctivitis and upper respiratory tract disease (URTD) in 9 prefectures of Japan. Dual and multiple infections were found in 7 (10.6%) cats with both C. felis and FHV-1, 10 (15.2%) cats with both C. felis and FCV, and 1 (1.5%) cat with all three agents. C. felis was isolated from 11 (28.2%) of 39 PCR positive cats. Antigenic difference was found in a 96 kDa protein of our isolates and Fe/145 strain isolated in USA. In conclusion, C. felis is the most common agent of feline conjunctivitis and URTD, and the coinfection with C. felis, FHV-1 and FCV are also common in cats in Japan.

Isolation of chlamydia psittaci from domestic cats with oculonasal discharge in Japan

Eight strains of Chlamydia psittaci were isolated in Japan from the nasal and conjunctival swabs of six household cats using the L929 cell line of mouse fibroblast origin. The isolates were identified as C. psittaci on the basis of the formation of characteristic inclusion bodies in the cell culture detected by Giemsa stain and immunofluorescence. Comparison of nucleotide sequences of the ompA gene amplified from the three isolates with the published sequence of feline FEPN strain of C. psittaci showed almost 100% homology.

Commercial cotton nesting material as a predisposing factor for conjunctivitis in athymic nude mice

Environmental enrichment for rodents is beneficial, but compatibility between the enrichment device and the rodent strain must also be considered. The authors present a case in which the use of a specific form of environmental enrichment--cotton bedding material--proved detrimental to the health of athymic nude mice, increasing the likelihood of conjunctivitis.

Diagnosis and treatment of conjunctivitis in house finches associated with mycoplasmosis in Minnesota

An ongoing outbreak of Mycoplasma gallisepticum-associated conjunctivitis in house finches (Carpodacus mexicanus) that began in 1994 in the eastern United States has been spreading westward. House finches presenting with the clinical signs of M. gallisepticum-associated conjunctivitis were first seen at the Wildlife Rehabilitation Center of Minnesota (Minnesota, USA) in July of 1996, and 42 cases were admitted from 26 December 1996 to 10 August 1997. A nested PCR was designed for sensitive and specific detection of the presence of the organism. Twelve birds were treated with oral enrofloxacin (15 mg/kg, twice daily for 21 days) and ophthalmic gentamicin (twice daily for 21 days). All treated birds showed resolution of clinical signs. Following treatment, finches were held for up to 6 mo and tested for the presence of M. gallisepticum by culture and nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Eight of twelve finches (67%) were positive for M. gallisepticum by nested-PCR and four (33%) were positive by culture. The results suggest that oral enrofloxacin and opthalmic gentamicin are not an effective treatment for the eradication of M. gallisepticum in house finches. Further, the results show that nested PCR is an effective method for detection of M. gallisepticum in house finches and was more sensitive than culture.

Feline eosinophilic conjunctivitis

OBJECTIVE

To review 12 cases of histologically confirmed feline eosinophilic conjunctivitis, their clinical, cytologic, histologic and electronmicroscopic findings, results on PCR for FeHV-1, treatment and outcome.

ANIMALS STUDIED

Twelve naturally occurring cases presented during a period of 26 months.

PROCEDURES

Thorough ophthalmologic examination, conjunctival scrapings performed with the cytobrush method; histologic samples from the palpebral conjunctiva; PCR for FeHV-1 on Schirmer Tear Test (STT) strips; saliva and nasal swabs, and retrospective evaluation of all results.

RESULTS

The breed most commonly affected was the Domestic Shorthair (n = 8), followed by Persians (n = 2), Somali (n = 1) and Siamese (n = 1). Age at presentation was 1-15 years with a mean age of 7.2 years. Nine cats were castrated males; three cats were females: two of them were spayed. Unilateral (n = 7) or bilateral (n = 5) involvement with depigmentation and erosions of lid margin, blepharospasm, swelling and redness of conjunctiva and third eyelid were the most common clinical findings. Frequency of eosinophils in cytologic samples was more than 10% in every patient. PCR for FeHV-1 on STT was negative in all cases. Histologically, eosinophils, lymphocytes, plasma cells, mast cells and macrophages were involved. On electronmicroscopy, viral particles were not detected. Ten cases needed long-term anti-inflammatory treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

The 12 reviewed cases suggest that feline eosinophilic conjunctivitis is a chronic inflammatory uni- or bilateral disease of the adult cat. Typically the lid margin was also involved, and was thickened, depigmented and erosive. Cytological examination of conjunctival scrapings was a valuable tool for detecting eosinophilic conjunctivitis. The cytological findings correlated well with the histopathological findings in our patients. Topical or systemic anti-inflammatory drugs resolved the clinical symptoms in our cases within a short period of time. Neither electronmicroscopy nor PCR were able to detect involvement of FHV1 in the represented cases. The etiopathogenic role of FeHV-1 remains undetermined.

Characterization of the mycoplasmal conjunctivitis epizootic in a house finch population in the southeastern USA

An epidemiological study of the prevalence of mycoplasmal conjunctivitis in the house finch (Carpodacus mexicanus) was conducted in Auburn (Alabama, USA) between March 1998 and February 1999. Clinical disease was observed in 4% of the 1,214 finches trapped and examined. This rate is comparable to the average annual prevalence observed in this population since 1996, although the prevalence of clinical disease observed in the peak months of September through November was lower than in previous years. Clinically ill birds were observed in all months of the study. To estimate the prevalence of recovering and asymptomatic, infected birds, we tested a subset of 334 house finches serologically for exposure to Mycoplasma gallisepticum (MG) using the serum plate agglutination (SPA) assay. The prevalence of clinical disease in this subsample was slightly higher (7%) than in the entire sample, reflecting the fact that the serological survey was initiated in the late summer when the prevalence of MG infection peaks in our study population and a sampling bias for symptomatic birds. The serological survey indicated that 13% of this subpopulation had been exposed to MG. We also tested 46 of 334 finches by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to detect MG in seropositive, asymptomatic birds. Use of the PCR in conjunction with the SPA detected six asymptomatic, infected birds that may represent potential carriers or birds in the early stages of infection. The decreasing prevalence of clinical disease observed during the peak months suggests a changing host-parasite relationship. Continued surveillance of this population, employing both clinical observation and serological analysis will be useful in characterizing these changes over time.

Characterization of mycoplasma gallisepticum infection in captive house finches (Carpodacus mexicanus) in 1998

Since 1995, the epidemic of mycoplasmal conjunctivitis in eastern house finches has affected the Auburn, AL, house finch population. To better characterize the current status of this host-parasite interaction, we established a captive flock of 38 seronegative, healthy finches in fall 1998. After a minimum quarantine period of 4 wk, two Mycoplasma gallisepticum (MG)-infected house finches were introduced into this flock. Over a 12-wk period, the flock was captured every 2 wk and each bird was observed for conjunctivitis. Blood and choanal swabs were collected from each bird for serologic analysis and for the detection of MG by polymerase chain reaction. The infection spread rapidly through the flock just as it had in a similar study performed in 1996 at the height of the epidemic. Unlike the earlier study in which birds remained chronically infected, most of the birds in our study recovered rapidly, and only three of the birds died during the study. Two patterns of host response to infection with MG were observed. Twenty-seven birds (73%) experienced an acute conjunctivitis that resolved, and the birds appeared to clear the infection. Ten birds (27%) suffered prolonged clinical disease, and MG could be detected in these birds intermittently throughout the experiment. These results, in conjunction with our surveys of MG in the wild population, suggest an evolving host-parasite interaction.

Host range and dynamics of mycoplasmal conjunctivitis among birds in North America

An epidemic of conjunctivitis among house finches (Carpodacus mexicanus) caused by Mycoplasma gallisepticum (MG) bacterial infections was first described in 1994. The disease exhibits high primary host specificity, but has been isolated from a limited number of secondary avian hosts at various times and locations. We used records from the House Finch Disease Survey, a continent-wide, volunteer monitoring project, to document the host range of conjunctivitis in birds at feeding stations and to investigate how disease in house finches might influence the spread of conjunctivitis to other hosts. Between 1994 and 1998, participants recorded 675 cases of conjunctivitis in 31 species other than house finches in eastern North America. Seventy five % of these cases were observed among three species: American goldfinches (Carduelis tristis), purple finches (Carpodacus purpureus) and house sparrows (Passer domesticus). The proportion of sites with diseased wintering populations of the three species increased over the 4 yr study and coincided with range expansion of conjunctivitis in house finches. Sites with diseased house finches present were significantly more likely to report conjunctivitis in each of the three species during the same month. These observations are most consistent with transmission of an infectious agent (presumably MG) from house finches to these secondary hosts via spillover of localized epidemics, rather than sustained interspecific transmission.

[Health status and causes of mortality in feral cats in a delimited area of the inner city of Berlin]

Results of the veterinary examination of feral cats living in a delimited area of Berlin city are presented. Between 1996 and 1999 thirty nine cats were investigated, among them eleven individuals twice. All animals were positive for one or several pathologies, but only seven cats were in bad condition. Most common were periodontal and gingival diseases, followed by conjunctivitis. Five cats were positive for FIV, seven for FeLV, one tomcat for both. Twenty six cats vanished during the study period of 42 months, only one third of cats survived and remained in the study area throughout. Four cats were given to pet lovers, nine cats disappeared without trace, seven animals died in traffic accidents and six cats died of illnesses. Cats less than three years of age vanished more often than expected from their representation in the population. Dirty or large feeding places for cats constitute a source of infections. Feeding sites should be accessible to only few individuals and left-overs that may attract stray cats, rats or birds should not remain at feeding places.

Recent epidemiological status of feline upper respiratory infections in Japan

Epidemiology of upper respiratory infections of cats was studied. Nasal, ocular, and oral swabs collected from 111 cats presented at animal hospitals during the past 2.5 years were examined. Twenty-four (21.6%) and 4 (3.6%) cats were diagnosed as feline calicivirus (FCV) infection and feline viral rhinotracheitis, respectively, indicating FCV is more prevalent than feline herpesvirus-1, which revealed a considerable shift from data obtained in 1970s. Cat sera immunized by using vaccines containing either FCV F9 or 255 strains neutralized 42.9% and 66.7% of the FCV isolates, respectively. Chlamydia psittaci, examined by a PCR assay amplifying the ompA gene, was found in 26.9% of 26 diseased cats that typically showed conjunctivitis and rhinitis.

Isolation of avian influenza virus (H10N7) from an emu (Dromaius novaehollandiae) with conjunctivitis and respiratory disease

Avian influenza virus was isolated from the conjunctiva of a male emu chick. Clinical observations included ocular discharge, dyspnea, and mild respiratory signs. Lesions included conjunctivitis, tracheitis, bronchopneumonia, and airsacculitis. Escherichia coli was isolated from the conjunctiva and the sinus, and Staphylococcus sp. was isolated from the conjunctiva. Influenza A viral nucleoprotein was detected immunohistochemically in epithelial cells of the bronchi, lung parenchyma and tracheal mucosa, and mononuclear inflammatory cells within the exudate of the bronchial lumen; conjunctiva, air sacs, kidney, intestine, and liver were negative for the viral nucleoprotein. The isolated influenza virus was typed as H10N7 and was determined to be nonpathogenic for chickens.