Registered users receive a variety of benefits including the ability to customize email alerts, create favorite journals list, and save searches.
Please note that a BioOne web account does not automatically grant access to full-text content. An institutional or society member subscription is required to view non-Open Access content.
Contact helpdesk@bioone.org with any questions.
A 14-year-old female spayed Abyssinian cat, which about 1 year previously underwent thoracic limb amputation, radiotherapy and chemotherapy for an incompletely excised vaccine-related fibrosarcoma, was presented for evaluation of corneal opacity in the left eye (OS). The ocular surface of both eyes (OU) had a lackluster appearance and there was a stromal corneal ulcer OS. Results of corneal aesthesiometry, Schirmer tear test-1 (STT-1) and tear film breakup time revealed corneal hypoesthesia, and quantitative and qualitative tear film deficiency OU. Noxious olfactory stimulation caused increased lacrimation relative to standard STT-1 values suggesting an intact nasolacrimal reflex. Various lacrimostimulants were administered in succession; namely, 1% pilocarpine administered topically (15 days) or orally (19 days), and topically applied 0.03% tacrolimus (47 days). Pilocarpine, especially when given orally, was associated with notable increases in STT-1 values, but corneal ulceration remained/recurred regardless of administration route, and oral pilocarpine resulted in gastrointestinal upset. Tacrolimus was not effective. After 93 days, the cat became weak and lame and a low thyroxine concentration was detected in serum. The cat was euthanized and a necropsy performed. Both lacrimal glands were histologically normal, but chronic neutrophilic keratitis and reduced conjunctival goblet cell density were noted OU.
Relevance and novel information
The final diagnosis was dry eye syndrome (DES) of presumed neurogenic origin, associated with corneal hypoesthesia. This report reinforces the importance of conducting tearfilm testing in cats with ocular surface disease, as clinical signs of DES were different from those described in dogs.
A 12-year-old female spayed domestic shorthair cat presented with history of a long-term chronic cough that had worsened during the previous 2 months. Thoracic radiographs revealed numerous mineral opacities throughout the lung fields. Multiple bronchial plugs of pale yellow material were present on bronchoscopy, consistent with broncholithiasis. Bronchoalveolar lavage cytology revealed a mild neutrophilic inflammation and bacterial culture was negative. The cat was diagnosed with chronic inflammatory lower airway disease and broncholithiasis, suspected to be due to mineralisation of secretions in the bronchial lumen. The cat was treated for 6 years with oral prednisolone and responded well to treatment. Six years later, the cat developed severe respiratory distress and died. Post-mortem examination identified chronic multifocal broncholithiasis, pulmonary abscessation and pyothorax.
Relevance and novel information
Broncholithiasis is a very rare condition in feline medicine; however, we are reporting a new case and it should be considered as a differential diagnosis for chronic coughing in cats, especially when other common causes have been ruled out and the radiographic findings are suggestive of it. We hypothesise that pathogenesis of the pulmonary abscessation and pyothorax in our patient was, at least partially, due to broncholithiasis. Pleural disease should be considered a complication of broncholithiasis.
The objective of this study was to compare the diagnostic sensitivities and specificities of WITNESS FeLV-FIV (Zoetis) and SNAP FIV/FeLV Combo Test (IDEXX) for the detection of FeLV p27 antigen in the sera of experimentally feline leukemia virus (FeLV)-infected cats.
Methods
Diagnostic sensitivities of WITNESS and SNAP were determined through testing of 47 serum samples collected from cats day 56 post-experimental infection with a virulent FeLV Rickard strain. Successful experimental infection was confirmed based on observation of FeLV antigen and proviral DNA in anti-coagulated (EDTA) whole-blood samples by immunofluorescent antibody (IFA) test and PCR, respectively. Diagnostic specificities of both tests were determined through testing of sera of 92 laboratory-housed, non-FeLV-exposed specific pathogen-free (SPF) cats.
Results
Forty-one of 47 blood samples were IFA positive, whereas all 47 samples were PCR positive. All 92 non-FeLV-infected SPF cats were IFA and PCR negative. In comparison to IFA as the reference method, both WITNESS and SNAP tests yielded equivalent sensitivities and specificities of 100% and 97.8%, respectively. In comparison to PCR as the reference method, both WITNESS and SNAP tests likewise performed equivalently, with sensitivities and specificities of 91.5% and 100%, respectively.
Conclusions and relevance
Sensitivity and specificity of WITNESS FeLV-FIV for identifying FeLV p27 antigen in the sera of these experimentally FeLV-infected and non-FeLV-exposed SPF cats equaled those of the SNAP FIV/FeLV Combo Test. However, all positive results, regardless of the point-of-care test used, should be confirmed before making clinical decisions such as segregation from other cats or euthanasia.
A 9-month-old female neutered domestic shorthair cat presented with a history of episodic ptyalism, lethargy and abnormal behaviour. The clinical signs together with elevated pre- and post-prandial bile acid concentrations were consistent with hepatic encephalopathy (HE). In the absence of a portosystemic shunt (PSS) on abdominal ultrasound, medical management of HE was established with a protein-restricted diet and lactulose and the neurological signs resolved. Following an episode of acute vomiting and haemorrhagic diarrhoea at 19 months of age abdominal ultrasonography was repeated. The portal vein could not be demonstrated ultrasonographically; instead, portal vein tributaries were tortuous and communicated with the caudal vena cava (CdVC) at the level of the left kidney. CT angiography (CTA) confirmed the absence of the portal vein. CTA demonstrated the tortuous terminations of the portal tributaries, and several systemic veins, draining into the CdVC via a large-diameter paracaval vessel at the level of the left kidney. Gastrointestinal signs were stabilised and medical management for HE of a protein-restricted diet and lactulose was re-established.
Relevance and novel information
Congenital absence of the portal vein has not been described previously in the cat and should be considered in cats presenting with signs suggestive of a PSS and HE. The portal vein in the cat can be demonstrated using ultrasound, but complex congenital vascular malformations of the portal or systemic abdominal veins should be characterised using CTA and further distinguished from other vascular anomalies that may present with similar ultrasonographic features.
This report involves a 10-year-old male mixed-breed cat with a B-cell central nervous system (CNS) lymphoma. The cat presented with ataxia progressing to left hemiparesis. While haematological findings were normal, serum biochemistry showed a high creatine phosphokinase concentration. MRI revealed a homogeneously enhancing well-demarcated extra-axial lesion involving the region of the left lateral aperture with oedema in left flocculus and left medulla oblongata. On diffusion-weighted imaging, the lesion margins showed marked hyperintensity relative to the right cerebellar hemisphere. On an apparent diffusion coefficient map, the lesion appeared hypointense, with an apparent diffusion coefficient value of 0.57 ± 0.01 × 10−3 mm2/s. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis and cytology, and genetic analysis of CSF lymphoblasts confirmed a diagnosis of B-cell lymphoma. The owner opted for palliative treatment with prednisolone (1 mg/kg q12h); however, the cat died of dyspnoea 10 days after presentation.
Relevance and novel information
CNS lymphomas, which are the second most common intracranial tumours in cats, are highly infiltrative lesions and radical surgical excision is not recommended. Therefore, accurate diagnosis is crucial. However, contrast-enhanced MRI cannot always differentiate these lesions from other conditions, including other CNS tumours and strokes. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report to document the diffusion-weighted imaging features and apparent diffusion coefficient value for a feline CNS lymphoma. These findings are expected to improve the diagnostic accuracy of these lesions in cats.
A 15-year-old male neutered domestic shorthair cat was presented with a recent history of seizures, diarrhoea, lethargy, fever and jaundice. Marked elevation of liver enzyme activity was present and ultrasound examination was suggestive of cholecystitis and hepatitis. Neutrophilic cholangitis was confirmed on histopathology of liver biopsies. Bile culture identified a monomicrobial infection with Providencia rettgeri, which was resistant to multiple antimicrobial agents. The cat was treated with oral pradofloxacin for 4 weeks and remained well 4 months later.
Relevance and novel information
Providencia species are rarely reported in the veterinary literature and are an uncommon cause of disease in humans. The significance of this species in humans relates to the high prevalence of antimicrobial resistance. This is the first report of P rettgeri causing clinical illness in a cat and highlights the importance of bile cultures in hepatic disease.
Feline ownership is popular and represents the largest segment of the pet population in Malaysia. Most feline owners own, on average, 2–3 cats, with some having >10 cats per household. Feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV) and feline leukaemia virus (FeLV) are two clinically important viral infections in cats. Documenting the prevalence of these diseases in the feline population is important for both veterinarians and the public.
Methods
This was a retrospective study, using data collected from the domestic cat population seen at a 24 h private veterinary hospital in Malaysia, to determine the prevalence of FIV and FeLV in an urban area and risk factors associated with these infections. Between 2010 and 2016, 2230 blood samples were collected and tested for FIV antibodies and FeLV antigen using commercially available ELISA test kits.
Results
In total, 10.0% (n = 224; 95% confidence interval [CI] 8.80–11.26) were seropositive for FIV; 12.0% (n = 267; 95% CI 10.62–13.32) were seropositive for FeLV; and 2.6% (n = 58; 95% CI 2.01–3.17) were seropositive for both.
Conclusions and relevance
The prevalence of FIV is lower and FeLV higher than previously documented for this region. Because of the immunosuppressive potential of both viruses, client education and use of appropriate control strategies such as routine screening, vaccination and eradication should be considered.
The primary objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of Anaplasma phagocytophilum infection and exposure in adult feral cats in Massachusetts, an endemic area for A phagocytophilum and its tick vector Ixodes scapularis. The secondary objective was to determine if there were correlations between A phagocytophilum infection and the presence of anemia and thrombocytopenia.
Methods
Blood samples were collected between June and December 2015 from 175 apparently healthy adult feral cats that were presented to trap and release spay/neuter centers in Massachusetts. Complete blood count, blood smear evaluation, SNAP 4Dx Plus test (IDEXX) and A phagocytophilum PCR were performed on all samples to document acute infection (PCR-positive and/or inclusions observed on blood smear) and exposure to A phagocytophilum (SNAP 4Dx Plus-positive for A phagocytophilum antibodies).
Results
The prevalence of exposure to A phagocytophilum in feral cats in Massachusetts was 9.7%, whereas the prevalence of acute infection was 6.9%. All blood smears were negative for Anaplasma species inclusions; therefore, acute infection was defined as testing positive on PCR analysis. No statistically significant correlations were identified for cats that were positive for A phagocytophilum on PCR analysis or SNAP 4Dx Plus test and the presence of anemia or thrombocytopenia.
Conclusions and relevance
The prevalence of A phagocytophilum exposure in feral cats approaches 10% and is higher than the previously reported national average prevalence of 4.3% in the USA. A phagocytophilum infection may be an emerging infectious disease in cats. Further research is needed to determine the prevalence of clinical illness associated with A phagocytophilum infection in cats living in endemic areas.
Bronchial stents may be useful to relieve clinical signs of extraluminal compression. Herein we describe a case which, to our knowledge, is the first cat where bilateral bronchial stents have been used clinically. Respiratory signs of principal bronchial compression were alleviated after the stent procedure. Minor complications occurred, specifically: severe hypoxia during stent deployment; a transient, self-limiting postoperative pneumothorax possibly associated with ventilation-induced lung injury; bronchopneumonia (possibly pre-existing); and transient worsening of cough postoperatively. Stents were well- tolerated long- term. The cat was euthanased at 44 weeks post-stent procedure, owing to clinical signs of regurgitation, seemingly related to oesophageal dysfunction associated with tumour invasion.
Relevance and novel information
In this case, it appeared that bronchial stents were feasible and the procedure was associated with long-term improvement in respiratory signs related to extraluminal bronchial compression.
A 5-month-old intact female Scottish Fold cat was presented for cardiac evaluation. Careful auscultation detected a slight systolic murmur (Levine I/VI). The findings of electrocardiography, thoracic radiography, non-invasive blood pressure measurements and conventional echocardiographic studies were unremarkable. However, two-dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography revealed abnormalities in myocardial deformations, including decreased early-to-late diastolic strain rate ratios in longitudinal, radial and circumferential directions, and deteriorated segmental systolic longitudinal strain. At the follow-up examinations, the cat exhibited echocardiographic left ventricular hypertrophy and was diagnosed with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy using conventional echocardiography.
Relevance and novel information
This is the first report on the use of two-dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography for the early detection of myocardial dysfunction in a cat with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy; the myocardial dysfunction was detected before the development of hypertrophy. The findings from this case suggest that two-dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography can be useful for myocardial assessment when conventional echocardiographic and Doppler findings are ambiguous.
A 9-year-old spayed female domestic shorthair cat with clinical signs suggestive of chronic recurrent otitis media and recent seizures was presented with multifocal nervous system disease, including bilateral central and/or peripheral vestibular, cerebellar and forebrain deficits. Prior to presentation, there was inadequate improvement after 6 weeks of treatment for bilateral middle ear effusion from which a highly susceptible Staphylococcus species was cultured. This was followed by the development of seizures. Results of a complete blood count and serum chemistry were unremarkable, and a previous feline leukemia virus/feline immunodeficiency virus ELISA was negative. The cat was hospitalized overnight and had multiple seizures. The following morning the cat’s mentation worsened, and the cat lost ventilatory drive after induction for anesthesia in preparation for MRI. A brain herniation event was suspected, and the cat was euthanized prior to further diagnostics. On post-mortem examination both tympanic bullae were filled with a soft, tan-colored material. Histologically, this material was composed of neoplastic lymphocytes. In addition, neoplastic lymphocytes were found in the leptomeninges, brain parenchyma, submandibular lymph nodes and pancreas. The neoplastic lymphocytes were negative for both B- and T-lymphocyte immunohistochemical markers and PCR for antigen receptor rearrangements failed to amplify target DNA, indicating non-B, non-T-cell lymphoma.
Relevance and novel information
To our knowledge, this is the first report of lymphoma with confirmed bilateral tympanic bulla involvement in the human and veterinary literature. Neoplasia should be considered in cases of middle-ear effusion that do not improve adequately with appropriate antimicrobial therapy.
A 2-year-old male domestic shorthair cat presented to the University of Liverpool Small Animal Teaching Hospital with a 2 week history of altered mentation, blindness and focal epileptic seizures. MRI examination revealed generalised cerebral and cerebellar atrophy, diffuse T2-weighted hyperintensity of the white matter and meningeal thickening. Neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis was confirmed on post-mortem examination.
Relevance and novel information
This is the first report of the MRI findings of neuronal ceroid lipofuscinosis in a cat.
Mammary fibroadenomatous hyperplasia (MFH) is a benign pathology characterised by extensive proliferation of the ductal epithelium and mammary stroma. It typically occurs in young female cats, and seems to result from hypersensitivity to progesterone. A 2-year-old entire male European Shorthair cat presented to the veterinary clinic with enlargement of several mammary glands, which had developed within the previous 10 days. There was no prior administration of progestin in the cat’s medical history. Diagnostic tests were performed to assess the basal progesterone concentration and the concentration after stimulation with gonadotropin-releasing hormone, which ruled out the presence of functional ovarian tissue. Histological examination of the testes excluded hormone-secreting testicular tumours. Histological examination of the mammary gland confirmed the diagnosis of MFH. Treatment was started with aglepristone, a selective competitor for progesterone receptors, administered subcutaneously at 15 mg/kg at days 1, 2, 8 and 15. A reduction in the size of the mammary glands was evident 6 days after the first administration, with complete remission observed after 4 weeks.
Relevance and novel information
To the best of our knowledge, this is the first full report of MFH in a male cat. Although the origin of the progestins responsible for MFH in this case could not be confirmed, in the light of the diagnostic tests performed and the results obtained, accidental contact with hormone-like substances seems to be the only plausible explanation for the cat’s clinical signs. Inhibitor therapy was successful.
A 7-year-old male neutered domestic shorthair cat presented for investigation of a swelling over the right forelimb. Radiographs of the right forelimb revealed significant lysis and soft tissue swelling surrounding a previously implanted surgical plate, used to repair a fracture of the distal radius 5 years prior. The implant was removed, and a biopsy was collected. Histopathological analysis and immunohistochemistry diagnosed a non-epitheliotropic T-cell cutaneous lymphoma. Staging confirmed multiple regional lymph node involvement. The cat was started on a CHOP-based protocol (vincristine, doxorubicin, cyclophosphamide and prednisolone). At week 4, the disease progressed both locally and within the regional lymph nodes. The primary lesion became severely ulcerated and the cat was euthanased, 42 days post-diagnosis.
Relevance and novel information
This is the first report of a cutaneous non-epitheliotropic lymphoma developing at the site of a previous traumatic fracture and metal implant. The cat’s response to chemotherapy was poor and euthanasia was performed owing to progressive disease. More investigation is required to understand the role that malignant transformation could have at sites of chronic inflammation, bone fractures and surgical implants.
A 12-year-old neutered male domestic shorthair cat was presented to our referral hospital with a chronic history of tenesmus and lumbosacral pain. A diagnosis of degenerative lumbosacral stenosis (DLSS) was made and a standard dorsal L7–S1 laminectomy was performed uneventfully, with complete recovery within 1 month. The cat was brought back 4 months later for investigation of lumbosacral pain after having suffered a minor traumatic event. Neurological examination identified a low tail carriage, weakness, exercise intolerance, left pelvic limb lameness and diminished withdrawal reflexes in both pelvic limbs with severe sacrocaudal pain. A traumatic facet fracture of the L7 articular processes and subsequent spondylolisthesis was diagnosed. A second surgery was performed to stabilise the region. The cat was normal on neurological examination 1 month later and no further clinical signs were noted.
Relevance and novel information
This is the first description of a fracture and spondylolisthesis as a possible postoperative complication after L7–S1 dorsal laminectomy in a cat. The case highlights the importance of postoperative changes in the supportive structures of the lumbosacral spine in cats after surgical treatment of DLSS.
A 3-month-old intact male Somali cat was evaluated for a history of seizures, hypoglycaemia and mental dullness 4 weeks after being bitten in the head by a dog. The cat’s body size and weight were approximately half that of his littermates and its haircoat was woolly, with fewer guard hairs. Multiple hypoglycaemic episodes were documented over a period of 4 weeks, which resolved rapidly after correction of the hypoglycaemia. Juvenile hyposomatotropism was presumptively diagnosed by demonstrating low circulating levels of insulin-like growth factor 1 and after exclusion of other endocrine and non-endocrine causes of small stature and hypoglycaemia. The cat’s intermittent hypoglycaemia resolved spontaneously within 1 month and the cat never showed any more neurological signs. Nevertheless, the physical retardation and the coat abnormalities remained unchanged. A year later, the cat was diagnosed with chronic kidney disease IRIS stage 2.
Relevance and novel information
Hyposomatotropism is an extremely rare feline endocrinopathy. This is the second case reported in the veterinary literature, and the only one to describe hypoglycaemic events associated with growth hormone deficiency. Although hypoglycaemia is one of the most common disease manifestations in children with pituitary dwarfism, this has not yet been reported in veterinary medicine.
A 7-month-old intact male domestic shorthair cat was presented 4 h after being hit by a car. It had bilateral inguinal hernias and a mesenteric rent that were repaired surgically and a hematoma in the left retroperitoneal space. No other intra-abdominal abnormalities were identified on abdominal surgical exploration. Approximately 72 h after presentation, the cat started vomiting and developed severe abdominal discomfort. A sudden decrease in mentation and elevation of respiratory rate and effort ensued. Abdominal radiographs showed loss of detail in the abdominal cavity, and abdominocentesis confirmed septic peritonitis. The cat was euthanized, and post-mortem evaluation of the bowel revealed two 1 cm perforations of the jejunum.
Relevance and novel information
To our knowledge, delayed intestinal perforation secondary to blunt force abdominal trauma has not previously been reported in cats. It has been reported in dogs, but the pathophysiology resulting in perforation is poorly understood. Delayed intestinal injury secondary to blunt force abdominal trauma has been reported in people, especially in children, as a result of motor vehicle accidents.
A 6-month-old female cat with a history of chronic regurgitation presented with weight loss. CT angiography (CTA) showed severe constriction of the oesophagus due to an aberrant right subclavian artery and Kommerell’s diverticulum. The cat was surgically treated and remained clinically normal. More than 1 year after surgery, the general condition of the cat was stable and body weight had increased.
Relevance and novel information
This case report describes the clinical findings and surgical management of a cat diagnosed with severe oesophageal constriction caused by an aberrant right subclavian artery with Kommerell’s diverticulum (markedly dilated origin of the aberrant right subclavian artery), which are rare vascular anomalies in veterinary medicine and specifically in cats. The Kommerell’s diverticulum compressed the oesophagus and contributed to the severe oesophageal constriction in this case. Preoperative CTA was useful in the diagnosis and treatment planning.
A 1-year-old male neutered mixed breed cat presented with a 2 month history of inability to fully open the mouth when yawning and decreased ability to prehend food. Physical examination revealed severe bilaterally symmetrical masticatory muscle atrophy, a restricted vertical mandibular range of motion of 11–12 mm, and a normal body condition score. Skull radiography was normal. A canine ELISA system against unique masticatory muscle fibers (2M antibody titer), was positive at 1:1000 (reference interval <1:100 in dogs, and was <1:100 using serum from five archived normal cats), indicating the presence of cross-reacting antibodies. Owing to the chronicity and clinical severity, corticosteroid treatment did not result in improved jaw mobility, consistent with end-stage masticatory myositis. Masticatory muscle biopsy was declined at initial presentation. However, 1 year later at elective euthanasia, CT ruled out temporomandibular joint osseous restrictions, and masticatory and biceps femoral muscle histopathology evaluation confirmed end stage feline masticatory myositis with normal limb muscle.
Relevance and novel information
Masticatory myositis should be included in the differential diagnosis of trismus in cats. A canine ELISA can be used to indicate the presence of feline 2M cross-reacting antibodies. More cases are needed to fully elucidate the clinical presentation and best course of treatment.
A 10-year-old spayed female American Shorthair cat underwent renal transplantation due to worsening chronic kidney disease secondary to polycystic kidney disease. During transplantation, the right kidney grossly appeared to be more diseased than the left and was firmly adhered to the surrounding tissues. An intraoperative fine-needle aspirate of the right native kidney revealed inflammatory cells but no evidence of neoplasia. To create space for the allograft, a right nephrectomy was performed. Following nephrectomy, the right native kidney was submitted for biopsy. Biopsy results revealed a renal cell carcinoma. Although the cat initially recovered well from surgery, delayed graft function was a concern in the early postoperative period. Significant azotemia persisted and the cat began to have diarrhea. Erythematous skin lesions developed in the perineal and inguinal regions, which were suspected to be secondary to thromboembolic disease based on histopathology. The cat’s clinical status continued to decline with development of signs of sepsis, followed by marked obtundation with uncontrollable seizures. Given the postoperative diagnosis of renal cell carcinoma and the cat’s progressively declining clinical status, humane euthanasia was elected.
Relevance and novel information
This case is the first to document renal cell carcinoma in a cat with polycystic kidney disease. An association of the two diseases has been reported in the human literature, but such a link has yet to be described in veterinary medicine. Given the association reported in the human literature, a plausible relationship between polycystic kidney disease and renal cell carcinoma in cats merits further investigation.
This report describes a 10-year-old female spayed Russian Blue cat presented with a 5 month history of respiratory difficulty. Thoracic radiographs were suggestive of a central airway obstruction. Bronchoscopy revealed a broad-base mass in the region of the carina. Bronchoscopic debulking was performed using a urinary catheter. Histopathology confirmed the presence of a tracheobronchial carcinoma. Survival from diagnosis was 16 months (480 days), over which time the cat underwent three endoscopic debulking procedures in combination with doxorubicin chemotherapy.
Relevance and novel information
To our knowledge, this is the first report of a tracheobronchial carcinoma in a cat treated by endoscopic debulking with a urinary catheter and adjuvant chemotherapy with long-term survival time. A review of interventional bronchoscopy performed in humans and in veterinary medicine is described.
An 8-year-old male neutered Persian cat was presented with polyuria, polydipsia, polyphagia and muscle weakness associated with a 7 month history of diabetes mellitus (DM). The cat had initially been treated with neutral protamine Hagedorn (NPH) insulin 2 U q12h, followed by porcine lente insulin 2 U q12h and, most recently, 3 U glargine insulin q12h, without improvement of clinical signs. The cat also suffered from concurrent symmetrical bilateral alopecia of thorax and forelimbs, abdominal distension and lethargy. Hyperadrenocorticism (HAC), specifically pituitary-dependent HAC, was suspected and confirmed through abdominal ultrasonography demonstrating bilateral adrenal enlargement, and a low-dose dexamethasone suppression test using 0.1 mg/kg dexamethasone intravenously. Trilostane treatment (initially 10 mg/cat PO q24h then increased to 10 mg/cat PO q12h) was started and insulin sensitivity gradually improved, ultimately leading to diabetic remission after an increased in trilostane dose to 13mg/cat PO q12h, 14 months after the DM diagnosis and 7 months after the initiation of trilostane therapy.
Relevance and novel information
DM in cats with HAC is a difficult combination of diseases to treat. To our knowledge this is the first reported case of diabetic remission in a feline patient with HAC as a result of treatment with trilostane. Further work should focus on whether fine-tuning of trilostane-treatment protocols in cats with concurrent DM and HAC could lead to a higher proportion of diabetic remissions in this patient group.
Elpida Sarvani, Séverine Tasker, Milica Kovacˇević Filipović, Jelena Francuski Andrić, Nenad Andrić, Larissa Aquino, Sarah English, Charalampos Attipa, Christian M Leutenegger, Chris R Helps, Kostas Papasouliotis
The objectives of this study were to estimate the prevalence of feline haemoplasma infections in Northern Serbia, identify potential risk factors and perform molecular subtyping of feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV).
Methods
PCR analysis for feline haemoplasmas was performed on surplus EDTA blood samples from 373 cats from the Belgrade region, Serbia. An ELISA was used to determine the prevalence of feline leukaemia virus (FeLV) and FIV; PCR was performed on a subpopulation of these cats. FIV subtyping was performed using PCR.
Results
Within this population, 64/373 cats (17.2%) were infected with one or more haemoplasma species. Mycoplasma haemofelis was detected in 20/373 cats (5.4%), ‘Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum’ in 47/373 cats (12.6%) and ‘Candidatus Mycoplasma turicensis’ in 23/373 cats (6.2%). Coinfections were observed in 21/373 cats (5.6%). Based on ELISA serological retroviral testing, 4/310 cats (1.3%) were infected with FeLV, whereas 78/331 (23.6%) were infected with FIV. Multivariable analysis identified significant associations between haemoplasma infection and anaemia (anaemic/non-anaemic, odds ratio [OR] 2.7, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.04–7.1; P = 0.041]), male gender (male/female, OR 4.5, 95% CI 2.22–9.03; P <0.0005), outdoor access (yes/no, OR 5.2, 95% CI 2.28–11.92; P <0.0005), non-pedigree breed (non-pedigree/pedigree, OR 5.5, 95% CI 1.24–24.84; P = 0.025) and FIV seropositive status (positive/negative, OR 2.4, 95% CI 1.21–4.83; P = 0.012). PCR analysis of the FIV ELISA-positive samples revealed clade D as being the most prevalent.
Conclusions and relevance
All three known species of feline haemoplasma were detected, confirming their presence in Serbia; ‘Candidatus Mycoplasma haemominutum’ was the most prevalent. We found a high prevalence of FIV-infected cats and FIV clade D was most prevalent.
A 1.5-year-old castrated male domestic shorthair cat presented with a 2 month history of progressive nasal swelling and hyporexia. Minimal improvement prior to referral was achieved with a course of antibiotics and glucocorticoids. Cytology of an ulcerative lesion on the dorsal aspect of the nose was consistent with a diagnosis of phaeohyphomycosis. The cat achieved static disease for 6 weeks following initiation of itraconazole but developed epistaxis at 9 weeks. CT of the head demonstrated nasal and frontal sinus involvement. Nasal biopsy and culture identified infection with a Cladophialophora species not previously reported to cause disease. Initial response to a combination of itraconazole and terbinafine was noted, but owing to severe thrombocytopenia this combination was discontinued. Voriconazole was used but discontinued because of adverse side effects. Posaconazole treatment was offered throughout the clinical course but rejected owing to financial constraints and an uncertain response to medical therapy. Rhinotomy with debulking of diseased tissue and topical malachite green treatment was performed. Following the procedure itraconazole was continued and the cat has had no recurrence for over 1 year.
Relevance and novel information
Infections by Cladophialophora species have been reported in veterinary species, including cats. The specific fungal organism isolated from this cat has not been previously reported to cause disease in humans or animals and has only been described in the mangroves of Brazil. Furthermore, this is the first report to describe the use of topical malachite green as a treatment for refractory phaeohyphomycosis.
A 3-year-old male neutered domestic shorthair cat sustained a severe sacrococcygeal luxation post-motor vehicle trauma. Six days post-trauma, a fluid-filled swelling was noticed over the caudoventral abdomen and inguinal regions. Needle aspiration, closed suction drain placement and debridement with subcutaneous tacking were all attempted but failed to resolve the continued accumulation of serosanguinous lymphocyte-rich fluid in the subcutaneous pocket. Clinical resolution was ultimately achieved after surgical debridement and omentalisation of the lesion.
Relevance and novel information
Morel-Lavallée lesions are post-trauma closed soft tissue degloving injuries described infrequently in people. The avulsion of subcutaneous tissue from deep muscle fascia results in the accumulation of haemolymph and necrotic fat, which can persist for several days to months after the inciting incident. In people, they are commonly seen in the proximal thigh. This article proposes the existence of Morel-Lavallée lesions in cats.
Chronic diarrhea is a common and recurring problem in feline medicine. Intestinal trichomonads have been reported as causative agents of diarrhea in cats. While Pentatrichomonas hominis is considered commensal, Tritrichomonas foetus has been found to cause feline large bowel diarrhea in cats. In our report, two young cats infected with the feline leukemia virus (FeLV) and presenting with chronic diarrhea were identified as having trichomonads in their feces, based on direct examination and fecal culture. Molecular assays (PCR and DNA sequencing) revealed that the parasite involved was P hominis, not T foetus, as was suspected. The animals had already been subjected to ineffective therapy with metronidazole, and after the use of ronidazole, their feces became dry and formed.
Relevance and novel information
This case report describes P hominis infection as a possible cause of chronic diarrhea in two young cats also infected by FeLV. The parasite was probably resistant to metronidazole, the drug of choice in the literature, and sensitive to ronidazole. Although considered commensal, P hominis infection should be evaluated as a differential diagnosis in cats with chronic diarrhea, especially those that are immunocompromised. Moreover, a combination of techniques such as direct examination and/or fecal culture and PCR is essential for an accurate diagnosis of P hominis infection.
For over two decades, feline trichomonosis caused by Tritrichomonas foetus has been recognized as a large-bowel protozoan disease of the domestic cat. It has a wide distribution, but no reports exist in the Caribbean. The objectives of this study were to detect the presence of T foetus and its prevalence in the domestic cat on St Kitts, West Indies.
Methods
A cross-sectional study was performed between September 2014 and December 2015. This study recruited 115 feral cats from a trap–neuter–return program and 37 owned cats treated as outpatients at the university veterinary clinic. Fresh feces were inoculated in InPouch culture medium, as per the manufacturer’s instructions. In addition, PCR was performed using primers for T foetus. DNA extraction with amplification using primers of a Feliscatus NADH dehydrogenase subunit 6 was used as a housekeeping gene for quality control.
Results
Only two owned cats had reported diarrhea in the preceding 6 months. None of the 152 samples were positive on InPouch culture microscopic examination. Only 35/69 feral cat fecal DNA samples were positive for the housekeeping gene, of which none tested PCR positive for T foetus.
Conclusions and relevance
T foetus was not detected by culture and PCR in feral cats and owned cats on St Kitts. A high proportion of PCR inhibitors in the DNA samples using a commercial fecal DNA kit can lead to underestimating the prevalence, which should be taken into consideration when a survey on gastrointestinal pathogens depends exclusively on molecular detection.
An 11-month-old female neutered domestic shorthair cat presented for further investigation of a 1 month history of generalised tonic–clonic seizures. Physical examination revealed microphthalmia of the left eye and right-sided hemiparesis. MRI of the brain and cranial neck was performed using a 1.5-Tesla system. MRI revealed a left frontoethmoidal encephalocele and microphthalmia of the left eye. Conservative treatment with antiepileptic medication was elected. The cat was managed on phenobarbitone and levetiracetam. Seizures have remained well controlled 12 months post-diagnosis.
Relevance and novel information
This is the first known case report of a frontoethmoidal encephalocele in a cat. This case was presented to increase clinical awareness of this congenital malformation and as a differential diagnosis for any young cat that presents with seizures.
This article is only available to subscribers. It is not available for individual sale.
Access to the requested content is limited to institutions that have
purchased or subscribe to this BioOne eBook Collection. You are receiving
this notice because your organization may not have this eBook access.*
*Shibboleth/Open Athens users-please
sign in
to access your institution's subscriptions.
Additional information about institution subscriptions can be foundhere
