Research Articles (Companion Animal Clinical Studies)

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Tracing feline herpesvirus-1 exposure in domestic cats from Namibia : associations with neutralising antibodies, vaccination, clinical signs, and retroviral status
De Villiers, Lourens; Pulsoni, Simone; Bonfini, Barbara; Coetzee, Lauren M.; Hamunyela, Ellini; De Villiers, Mari; Ciarrocchi, Eugenia; Leone, Alessandra; Teodori, Liana; Molini, Umberto (Springer, 2026-08)
Feline herpesvirus type 1 (FHV-1) is a major cause of upper respiratory and ocular disease in domestic cats and remains widely distributed worldwide. However, information on FHV-1 exposure and neutralising antibody responses in cats from Namibia is limited. This study assessed FHV-1 neutralising antibody prevalence in a convenience sample of 236 domestic cats sampled across 15 towns in eight regions of Namibia. Neutralising antibodies were detected in 18/236 (8%) cats (95% CI: 4.88-11.73%). Seropositive animals were identified only in Erongo, Khomas, and Hardap regions, with the highest regional seroprevalence observed in Erongo. Seropositivity was uncommon in both vaccinated and unvaccinated cats and was not significantly associated with vaccination status, feline immunodeficiency virus antibody status, or feline leukaemia virus antigen status. A significant association was identified between seropositivity and oculonasal discharge (p < 0.001). Overall, the findings indicate low FHV-1 neutralising antibody prevalence within the sampled population rather than the wider domestic cat population of Namibia, and suggest that detectable neutralising antibodies were observed predominantly in unvaccinated cats, although interpretation is limited by the small number of vaccinated animals and the absence of detailed vaccination histories.
Elodontoma-like lesions in a Cape ground squirrel (Geosciurus inauris)
Steenkamp, Gerhardus; Elliott, Dorianne L. (Medpharm Publications, 2026-03)
Lesions affecting the apices of continuously growing (hypselodont) teeth have been reported in several captive rodent and lagomorph species and have been described as odontogenic dysplasia, pseudo-odontomas, odontomas and elodontomas. To date, such lesions have not been described in Cape ground squirrels (Geosciurus inauris). This report describes the clinical presentation, diagnostic imaging findings and outcome of a captive male Cape ground squirrel presented with severe respiratory distress. Computed tomography revealed extensive lesions affecting the apices of all four incisor teeth, resulting in near-complete obstruction of the nasal passages and marked involvement of the mandibular incisor tooth apices. As histopathological examination was not performed, the lesions are described as elodontoma-like lesions in this report. Due to the severity of the lesions and poor prognosis, euthanasia was recommended; however, the animal died shortly after discharge. This case expands the range of species affected by elodontoma-like lesions and supports the hypothesis that these lesions are primarily associated with captivity.
A review of radiographic and computed tomographic features of helminth and arthropod parasitic diseases in dogs
Birckhead, Alice; Malik, Richard; Shamsi, Shokoofeh; Jenkins, David; Carstens, Ann (Wiley, 2025-11)
Appointing bureaucrats based on merit and protecting them from excessive political interference have become bedrocks of modern bureaucracy. Populist leaders throughout the world, however, are looking to undermine merit systems and politicize bureaucracies. This study analyzes the impact of merit-based appointments and bureaucratic autonomy on service delivery effectiveness, using longitudinal data from a panel of African countries. Throughout Africa, social, economic, and political conditions have made it difficult for meritocratic and autonomous bureaucracies to take root and flourish as they have elsewhere. Despite these challenges, the study's main finding is that the practice of appointing bureaucrats based on merit has a positive effect on the provision of public services like transportation infrastructure, standardized education, drinking water, sanitation, and waste disposal. Political leaders undercutting meritocratic civil services and expanding patronage appointments do so at their own peril due to the adverse consequences of their actions on governmental performance. Little evidence is found of a relationship between bureaucratic autonomy and service delivery effectiveness.
Immobilisation and clinical effects of four drug combinations used to chemically capture white rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum)
Ndunda, Matt M.; Buss, Peter Erik; Gleed, Robin D.; Donaldson, Ashleigh Claire; Leiberich, Marion; Hooijberg, Emma Henriette; Snelling, Edward P.; Boesch, Jordyn Marie; Meyer, Leith Carl Rodney (Medpharm Publications, 2026-03)
Etorphine is an ultra-potent opioid used to immobilise white rhinoceros (Ceratotherium simum) in the field, but it can also cause extensive metabolic and cardiorespiratory derangements. To potentially reduce the severity of these derangements, etorphine is combined with synergistic drugs including medetomidine (an alpha-2 adrenoreceptor agonist), midazolam (a benzodiazepine agonist), or azaperone (a butyrophenone drug). The potentiation effects of these synergistic drugs are believed to reduce induction times and excitement, induce muscle relaxation, and improve immobilisation quality and safety. To test the benefits of these synergistic drugs, eight healthy, wild-caught boma-housed white rhinoceros (sub-adult males) were used in a repeated-measures randomised cross-over study. Each rhinoceros was immobilised with four treatments: etorphine only (control), etorphine + azaperone (azaperone), etorphine + medetomidine (medetomidine), and etorphine + midazolam (midazolam). Butorphanol was administered intravenously after 12 min of immobilisation in all treatments. First signs of drug effects, immobilisation induction times, immobilisation quality, tremor scores, rectal temperature, heart and respiratory rates, and peripheral arterial oxygen-haemoglobin saturation, were compared between and within treatments. All four treatments effectively immobilised rhinoceros, however the addition of azaperone, medetomidine and midazolam were associated with significantly shorter induction times compared to the etorphine-only. All treatments initially caused severe muscle tremors, hypopnea, hypoxaemia, and tachycardia (except for medetomidine). The administration of butorphanol partly corrected most of these derangements. Our study shows that the synergistic drugs effectively speed up induction into immobilisation. However, they provide little other physiological or clinical benefit over etorphine-only. Butorphanol remains an important ancillary treatment when administering these drug combinations in rhinoceros.
Effects of acupuncture on stride, speed, and heart rate variability in thoroughbred racehorses
Hartwigsen, Roselle; Grant, C.C. (Catharina Cornelia); Botha, Tanita; Van Vollenhoven, Elize (Medpharm Publications, 2026-03)
Thoroughbred racehorses are at increased risk of injury during race preparations and trials, primarily due to intensive workloads that predispose them to musculoskeletal injuries. Evaluating clinical interventions to improve health and prevent injury is essential for addressing animal welfare concerns. This study investigated the medium-term effects of acupuncture on stride, speed and cardiac autonomic regulation (assessed via heart rate variability [HRV]), in Thoroughbred flat racehorses. This prospective, randomised, parallel-group study included an intervention and a control group. Thirty Thoroughbred racehorses in full training (racing age 3 years; range 3.0–3.9), from a single professional training yard, and at the same stage of their racing careers, were maintained under similar nutritional, training, and environmental conditions. The intervention group received three acupuncture treatments, over a three-week period. HRV and 800-m gallop stride parameters (SP) were measured pre- and post-acupuncture period in both groups. Pre-post changes or delta (Δ) in each indicator were calculated for both groups and compared using non-parametric Mann-Whitney U tests. Treatment was associated with non-significant reductions in parasympathetic HRV indicators namely root mean square of successive differences in beat-to-beat RR-interval (ΔRMSSD: treatment vs control: - 2.19 vs. 1.47 ms), high frequency components (ΔHF: - 37.19 vs. 19.42 ms2), and standard deviation of short-term variability (ΔSD1: - 1.56 vs. 1.04 ms), suggesting lower vagal tone. Maximum stride count (Max SC) increased significantly in the control group (p = 0.004). Overall, the treatment group showed decreased stride count and vagal activity indicating that a short recovery period may be required after acupuncture.
Uterine squamous cell carcinoma in a 10-year-old Vietnamese pot-bellied pig (Sus scrofa domesticus)
Janse van Rensburg, Le-lani; Tagwireyi, Whatmore Munetsi; Magadu, Rungano; Grobler, Miemie; Avenant, Lida; Brown, Geoffrey James; Hoepner, Nicolene (BioMed Central, 2026-05)
A 10-year-old intact female Vietnamese Pot-bellied pet pig (Sus scrofa domesticus) presented to the Production Animal Clinic at the Onderstepoort Veterinary Academic Hospital in South Africa (OVAH) with recurrent vaginal bleeding as the primary complaint. Clinical examination, vaginoscopy with vaginal cytology and abdominal ultrasound localised the haemorrhage to the reproductive tract and initially revealed a pyometra. After the failure of medical treatment with a luteolytic agent, anti-inflammatory and antibiotics, an exploratory laparotomy was performed, during which two macroscopical uterine lesions were observed. Histopathology identified the lesions as a squamous cell carcinoma infiltrating the endo- and myometrium and a focal endometrial polyp. An ovariohysterectomy resulted in a full recovery. No evidence of pulmonary metastases was found.
Alterations in Erythrocyte and platelet characteristics are poor indicators of metastasis in dogs with carcinoma or sarcoma : a preliminary study
Mulder, Adriana A.; Goddard, Amelia; Pazzi, Paolo (MDPI, 2026-05)
Cancer is a leading cause of death in humans and dogs. Several erythrocyte and platelet characteristics (indices and morphology) have shown promise as indicators of metastasis in humans. Similar studies have not been performed in dogs. This study evaluated erythrocyte and platelet characteristics measured on the Advia 2120i in 59 tumor-bearing dogs with carcinoma or sarcoma. Tumor-bearing dogs with and without intracavitary hemorrhage that underwent complete post-mortem and histopathology examinations were compared to healthy age-controlled dogs. Carcinoma- and sarcoma-bearing dogs without hemorrhage were compared. All tumor-bearing dogs without hemorrhage or metastasis were compared to those with metastasis, and characteristics were evaluated as indicators of metastasis. Tumor-bearing dogs without intracavitary hemorrhage (n = 49) had decreased hematocrit (p = 0.002) and reticulocyte hemoglobin content (p = 0.022), and increase in anisocytosis (p = 0.002), polychromasia (p = 0.002), macrocytosis (p = 0.032), codocytes (p = 0.022), absolute reticulocyte count (p = 0.035), platelet concentration (p = 0.002), plateletcrit (p = 0.022), and platelet volume distribution width (p = 0.022) compared to healthy dogs (n = 20). In tumor-bearing dogs with intracavitary hemorrhage (n = 10), additional significant differences were reflective of acute hemorrhage. No difference in characteristics between carcinoma- and sarcoma-bearing dogs without hemorrhage was identified. After correction for multiple comparisons, no differences in erythrocyte or platelet characteristics were identified between tumor-bearing dogs without intracavitary hemorrhage and metastasis and those without metastasis. Significant differences in characteristics exist between tumor-bearing dogs and healthy dogs. Based on the limited number of dogs in this preliminary study, no red blood cell or platelet characteristics were associated with metastatic disease in tumor-bearing dogs without hemorrhage. SIMPLE SUMMARY : Cancer is a common cause of death in both people and dogs. In humans, changes in red blood cells and platelets have been explored as possible indicators of cancer spread (metastasis), but this has not been well studied in dogs. In this study, we evaluated blood cell characteristics in dogs with cancer and compared them to those of healthy dogs. We found that dogs with tumors showed several changes in red blood cells and platelets, particularly in dogs without internal bleeding. However, these changes were similar between different tumor types and were not associated with whether the cancer had spread. Based on the limited number of cases, blood cell characteristics alone were not useful for identifying metastasis in dogs without hemorrhage.
Experimental infection of horses with African horse sickness virus results in overt disseminated intravascular coagulation
Schliewert, Eva-Christina; Goddard, Amelia; Hooijberg, Emma Henriette (Wiley, 2026-03)
BACKGROUND : African horse sickness (AHS), caused by the vector-borne African horse sickness virus (AHSV), is endemic to sub-Saharan Africa and infection results in high mortality in naïve equine populations. Clinical signs include submucosal petechiae and prolonged bleeding post venepuncture indicative of hypocoagulation. Pathological activation of haemostasis may result from tissue factor expression as a result of vascular endothelial damage or dysfunction, the proposed pathologic mechanism in AHS, potentially resulting in disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC). OBJECTIVES : To describe haemostatic changes during experimental AHSV infection and to characterise DIC using plasma-based and viscoelastic assays. STUDY DESIGN : In vivo experiments. METHODS : Four horses were experimentally infected with AHSV. Blood samples were obtained before infection, then every 24 h until humane euthanasia. Haematology and thromboelastography (TEG) were performed and prothrombin time (PT), activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT), fibrinogen and D-dimer concentrations, as well as activities of antithrombin (AT) and coagulation factors II, VII, VIII, X, and XII were measured. RESULTS : Over the disease course, TEG variables showed increased clot initiation time (R) and decreased α-angle, maximum amplitude (MA), and clot strength (G). The velocity curve showed decreased maximum rate of thrombus generation (MRTG) and thrombus generation (TG), and increased time to maximum rate of thrombus generation (TMRTG). Prothrombin time, aPTT and D-dimer concentration increased while AT activity decreased. All horses developed severe thrombocytopenia. CONCLUSIONS : Horses experimentally infected with AHSV developed a consumptive coagulopathy with a bleeding phenotype. These findings fulfil the criteria of overt DIC characterised by procoagulant activation, inhibitor consumption and increased fibrinolytic activity.
Prevalence, diagnostic evaluation, and disease associations of vector-borne pathogens in domestic dogs across Namibia : a multi-modal approach
De Villiers, Lourens; Schoeman, Johan P.; Penzhorn, Barend Louis; Molini, Umberto; De Villiers, Mari; Makgabo, Sekgota Marcus; Byaruhanga, Charles; Collins, Nicola E.; Thompson, P.N. (Peter N.); Zealand, Samantha; Stoltsz, Wilhelm Heinrich; Baines, Ian J.M.; Khaiseb, Siegfried; Oosthuizen, Marinda C. (BioMed Central, 2025-07-10)
BACKGROUND : Due to limited documentation on vector-borne pathogens of companion animals in Namibia, a country-wide, multi-site field study was conducted to estimate the prevalence of these pathogens in domestic dogs. METHODS : Samples of whole blood and serum from 375 dogs in 15 towns across eight regions were analysed. Vector-borne pathogens were screened by light microscopic examination of blood smears, point-of-care serology, and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). Haematology and serum biochemistry analyses were also performed. RESULTS : Collectively, the SNAP® 4Dx® Plus Test provided 64% seropositive results, comprising Ehrlichia species (59%), Anaplasma species (45%), Dirofilaria immitis (2%), and Borrelia burgdorferi (< 1%). Altogether, prevalence as determined by probe-based qPCR assays was 54%, comprising Ehrlichia canis (27%), Hepatozoon canis (25%), Anaplasma species (13%), and Babesia vogeli (8%). Light microscopy yielded the least number of positives, indicating a collective positive result of only 11% in screening for Ehrlichia, Anaplasma, Hepatozoon, Babesia, and microfilaria species. On the whole, Kunene and Otjozondjupa regions showed the highest pathogen prevalence (75%), and the lowest was from Erongo region (38%), on qPCR testing. Significant associations between tick presence and infection by E. canis (P = 0.001), Anaplasma species (P = 0.006), and B. vogeli (P = 0.008) were demonstrated. Likewise, relevant associations between haemoparasite infection and variables of patient signalment, history, and various disease manifestations were shown. Finally, significant associations were found between pathogen infection and numerous clinical pathology abnormalities of the erythron, leukon, and thrombon, including thrombocytopenia (P = 0.022). CONCLUSIONS : Diagnostic modalities should be used contextually to test for canine pathogens, with due consideration of the limitations. Appropriate diagnostic testing such as qPCR, guided by relevant known associations with disease manifestation, should guide responsible treatment strategies and identify potential zoonotic risks in pets.
Postoperative chylothorax following surgical transection of a left ligamentum arteriosum in a cat with a persistent right aortic arch
Pont, Adriaan D.; Bester, Elizabeth G.; Kitshoff, Adriaan Mynhardt (Wiley, 2026-05)
A 6-month-old intact female domestic shorthair cat was presented for surgical correction of a vascular ring anomaly. The main clinical sign on presentation was persistent regurgitation after ingestion of solid food. Computed tomography of the thorax confirmed the diagnosis of a persistent right aortic arch (PRAA) with a left ligamentum arteriosum. The left ligamentum arteriosum was identified, ligated and transected via a left fifth intercostal thoracotomy to relieve the oesophageal constriction associated with the persistent right aortic arch. Within 24 h postoperatively, the patient developed dyspnoea and tachypnoea. A pleural effusion was noted on drainage of the left thoracic drain, which had been placed intraoperatively. The pleural effusion analysis was consistent with a chylothorax. A right-sided thoracostomy tube was placed in addition to the left, and a continuous drainage system was utilised. The chylous effusion resolved on Day 6 postoperatively. This case report highlights the occurrence and management of iatrogenic chylothorax following surgical correction of a PRAA with a left ligamentum arteriosum in a cat.
Clinical signs, clinical pathology and outcomes in horses infected naturally with equine encephalosis virus
Piketh, Graeme; Viljoen, Adrienne; Eberhardt, Christina (Wiley, 2026-03)
BACKGROUND : Equine encephalosis (EE) is caused by an Orbivirus from the family Sedoreoviridae and is thus similar to African horse sickness (AHS) and Bluetongue viruses (BTV). These viruses are transmitted by Culicoides midges. Equine encephalosis can infect horses, donkeys and zebras sub-clinically while only horses develop clinical disease. The vector's distribution is climate-dependent with evidence for circulation in Southern Africa, the Middle East and India. Global warming could facilitate the expansion of this distribution and consequently the potential spread into Europe should not be overlooked. OBJECTIVES : To describe clinical signs, clinicopathological abnormalities, and outcomes in horses naturally infected with EE. STUDY DESIGN : A retrospective, descriptive, observational study. METHODS : Data were obtained from the Onderstepoort Veterinary Academic Hospital's clinical database to identify cases with EE from 2013 to 2023. Data including the history, clinical signs and clinicopathology were analysed. RESULTS : Equine encephalosis cases predominantly occurred from February to April. Twenty-five horses were included. Throughout the disease, 25 (100.0%) horses had pyrexia (mean maximum temperature 39.3°C; SD 0.86°C), 16 (64.0%) horses had tachycardia (median maximum heart rate 52/min; range 36-100/min), 19 (76.0%) horses had tachypnoea (median maximum respiratory rate 24/min; range 12-60/min). Within 24 h of presentation, horses predominantly displayed lymphopenia (median 1.17 × 109 cells/L; range 0.15-9.21 × 109 cells/L), thrombocytopenia (median 67.5 × 109 cells/L; range 3-303 × 109 cells/L), and leukopenia (median 5.44 × 109 cells/L; range 2.08-18.07 × 109 cells/L). MAIN LIMITATIONS : Retrospective study design with a small number of cases and many of these evaluated at differing times after infection. CONCLUSION : Pyrexia, tachycardia and tachypnoea are the most common clinical signs associated with EE. Haematological evaluation appears valuable in EE cases, with leukopenia, lymphopenia, and thrombocytopenia commonly observed. Equine encephalosis is a relevant differential diagnosis for other infectious diseases in horses in geographical regions where EEV and Culicoides vectors are potentially present.
Acute endocrine responses to snouted cobra (Naja annulifera) and African puffadder (Bitis arietans) envenomation in dogs
Fourie-Viljoen, Noeline; Goddard, Amelia; Thompson, P.N. (Peter N.); Daminet, Sylvie; Schoeman, Johan P. (Oxford University Press, 2026-02-21)
BACKGROUND : The endocrine response to snake envenomation in dogs remains unexplored. HYPOTHESIS/OBJECTIVES : To compare the endocrine response in dogs envenomated by snouted cobra (Naja annulifera) and African puffadder (Bitis arietans) with healthy control dogs, to evaluate the change over time of specific hormones, and to investigate the correlation of these changes with C-reactive protein (CRP). ANIMALS : This study included 17 client-owned dogs naturally envenomed by either a snouted cobra (N annulifera) (n = 9) or a puffadder (B arietans) (n = 8). Two control groups (n = 10 and n = 12) consisted of client-owned dogs in good health. METHODS : In this prospective longitudinal observational study, serum samples were collected at admission, and at 12, 24, and 36 h after envenomation. At each time point, the serum total thyroxine (TT4), thyrotropin, total cortisol, and CRP concentrations were measured. RESULTS : The median serum TT4 concentrations of all the cases were significantly lower than those of controls at all time points (P < .05). The cases had a median (Q1-Q3) serum TT4 of 20.8 nmol/L (15.2-25) at admission, and 7.71 (6.4-19.7), 11.50 (6.4-18.5), and 12.3 (6.4-16.6) nmol/L at 12, 24, and 36 h after envenomation, respectively. The puffadder and neurological cobra subgroup TT4 remained significantly suppressed until 36 h after envenomation and had nadirs of 9.15 (6.4-14.65) and 6.4 (6.1-7.45) nmol/L, respectively. The non-neurological cobra subgroup had a nadir of 14.6 (9.4-21.45) nmol/L and recovered within 24 h. Serum TT4 concentration was negatively correlated with CRP (P < .05, ρ = −0.326). The total serum cortisol concentration in the neurological cobra subgroup at admission was 483.0 (153-549) nmol/L. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL IMPORTANCE : Puffadder and snouted cobra envenomation are associated with profound suppression of serum TT4 concentrations, correlated with systemic inflammatory activation as measured by serum CRP concentrations.
Management of dental disease in eared seals (family Otariidae) : a Delphi approach
Simeone , Claire A.; Schwitzer, Nora; Johnson, Shawn P.; Ruiz, José C. Almansa; Debosschere, Yves; Force, Judy; Forsayeth, Aaron; Gawor, Jerzy P.; Gracis , Margherita; Holmstrom, Steven; Legendre, Loïc; Mestrinho, Lisa A.; Sogorb, Arlete R.; Steenkamp, Gerhardus; Tucker , Rebecca; Tutt, Cedric; Urgel, Ignacio Velázquez; Woody, Allison (Frontiers Media, 2025-08-26)
OBJECTIVE : Published literature is sparse on topics associated with eared seal (otariid) dentistry. The objective of this study was to establish consensus on effective management of dental disease in otariids, using a Delphi approach. METHODS : A total of 25 veterinarians with experience managing dental disease in seven species of otariids participated in the Delphi process. RESULTS : Oral lesions and their contributing risk factors were ranked according to perceived frequency. Consensus statements for best practices were agreed upon for a variety of topics within the categories of planning and preparation, procedural details, intervention strategies, and postoperative care. Panelist comments were collated into a Supplementary File to assist clinicians in forming their own conclusions on topics for which no consensus yet exists. CONCLUSION : Opportunities for future research include factors associated with oral lesions, ideal anesthetic management, identification of ideal candidates for endodontic therapies, ideal local and regional anesthesia, ideal suture and closure techniques, particularly with the goal of reducing dehiscence as a postoperative complication, and ideal postoperative care options.
Median survival times are longer in azotemic cats that have a 25% or 50% reduction in creatinine at 24 or 48 hours, respectively, after subcutaneous ureteral bypass device placement
De Witt, Anika A.; Robinson, Genna F.; Zeiler, Gareth Edward; Berman, Chad Farryl; Elliott, Ross Christopher (American Veterinary Medical Association, 2026-02)
OBJECTIVE : To determine median survival time using predefined creatinine percentage changes after SC ureteral bypass (SUB) placement. METHODS : This was a retrospective cohort study. Data from cats admitted for SUB placement were collected between 2015 and 2022 from a single referral hospital. Serum creatinine values at presentation and at 24 and 48 hours after SUB placement and outcome data (dead or alive) were extracted, and percentage change was calculated. Cats with incomplete datasets or nonbenign obstruction were excluded. A priori decreases of 25% and 50% were regarded as acceptable changes at 24 or 48 hours, respectively. Median survival times were approximated using Kaplan-Meier curves. RESULTS : Records from 21 of 30 cats (14 female, 7 male) that were a median of 8 (7 to 10) years old had complete datasets for analysis. Median survival times were 241 (8, 719) and 989 (989, 1,510) days for cats that did not and did achieve the predefined decrease at 24 hours, respectively. Median survival times were 225 (8, 387) and 989 (2, 1,510) days for cats that did not and did achieve the predefined decrease at 48 hours, respectively. The overall median survival time was 387 (119, 989) days regardless of achieving the predefined percentage decreases. CONCLUSIONS : The median survival time was significantly longer in cats that achieved or exceeded the predefined percentage reduction in creatinine at 24 or 48 hours after SUB placement. CLINICAL RELEVANCE : Evaluating percentage changes in serial serum creatinine after SUB placement can be useful to indicate survival and longevity.
Agreeing language in veterinary endocrinology (ALIVE) : hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, (Euglycaemic) diabetic ketosis/ketoacidosis, and diabetic remission-a modified Delphi-method-based system to create consensus definitions
Niessen, Stijn J.M.; Shiel, Robert; Wehner, Astrid; Campos, Miguel; Daminet, Sylvie; Fracassi, Federico; Graham, Peter; Korchia, Jeremie; Lathan, Patty; Leal, Rodolfo; Miceli, Diego Daniel; Mooney, Carmel T.; Perez Alenza, Maria De Los Doloros; Peterson, Mark E.; Schoeman, Johan P. (MDPI, 2026-01)
Companion animal endocrinology has benefited from international standardisation of disease terminology for diabetes mellitus, Cushing's syndrome, and hypoadrenocorticism through Project Agreeing Language in Veterinary Endocrinology (ALIVE). A group of 14 experts and one chair convened for the third cycle of Project ALIVE, focusing on thyroid disease terminology. The cycle employed the modified Delphi approach from previous cycles, augmented by procedural refinements-such as inclusion of an off-site chair and stricter adherence to timelines -to improve efficiency and flexibility. Novel in this round was the integration of feedback from a previous cycle, which resulted in updated definitions for diabetes mellitus originally developed in ALIVE Cycle 1. Outcomes: A 100% consensus was achieved among panellists and 91.4-100% among 105 members of international veterinary endocrinology societies (32% of total memberships) over 78 thyroid-related terminology items and five revised definitions pertaining to diabetes mellitus. These standardised definitions are expected to facilitate clearer communication and education, enhance diagnostic consistency, support research comparability, and improve clinical care in feline and canine endocrine diseases. SIMPLE SUMMARY After having achieved international consensus over disease, diagnosis, classification, and monitoring concepts in the area of companion animal diabetes mellitus, Cushing’s syndrome, and hypoadrenocorticism, a group of 14 experts and one chair embarked on the third cycle of project “Agreeing Language in Veterinary Endocrinology” (ALIVE), this time focusing on thyroid disease terminology. This cycle’s methods followed, like previous ones, a modified Delphi-approach with small changes to improve efficiency and flexibility, including an off-site chair. For the first time, additionally, feedback on definitions of a previous cycle was incorporated, leading to an update of diabetes mellitus related definitions of ALIVE Cycle 1. This third cycle was completed successfully, accomplishing a majority-based consensus among panellists and international veterinary endocrinology society memberships over 78 thyroid related terminology and five updated diabetes mellitus definitions. As has been the case with the definitions created for other hormonal diseases, it is hoped this work will improve education, research, diagnosis, and treatment in cats and dogs with endocrine disease.
Biochemical and haemostatic variables associated with metastasis in dogs with carcinoma or sarcoma
Pazzi, Paolo; Fosgate, Geoffrey Theodore; Kristensen, Annemarie T.; Goddard, Amelia (Wiley, 2026-01)
OBJECTIVES : Identify alterations in biochemical and haemostatic variables between tumour-bearing dogs with and without metastasis that can be used to predict the presence of metastasis. MATERIALS AND METHODS : Thirty dogs with sarcoma and 29 with carcinoma were included in the analysis. Serum biochemistry profiles and haemostatic variables (haematocrit value, platelet count, thromboelastography (TEG), fibrinogen, Factor X, VII, antithrombin activity and D-dimer concentration) were measured for all dogs. All dogs underwent complete post-mortem and histopathological evaluations. For tumour-bearing dogs without intracavitary haemorrhage, measured variables were compared between dogs with and without metastasis, and univariate and multivariable analysis were performed to identify predictors of metastasis. RESULTS : Metastasis was identified in 31 of 59 (53%) dogs, of which 5 of 31 (16%) had metastasis to the regional lymph node only and 26 of 31 (84%) had distant metastasis. Sodium, ionised calcium, TEG lysis % at 30 and 60 minutes (Ly60) were significantly lower in tumour-bearing dogs without intracavitary haemorrhage with metastasis compared to dogs without metastasis. Multivariable analysis identified sodium <142.5 mmol/L as 64% sensitive (CI95%:45% to 82%) and 63% specific (CI95%:44% to 81%); and Ly60 < 1.0% as 68% sensitive (CI95%: 49% to 88%) and 78% specific (CI95%:61% to 95%) for prediction of the presence of metastasis. Parallel interpretation of lower sodium and decreased Ly60 resulted in high sensitivity (96%) for the presence of metastasis. CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE : Sodium and TEG-based decreased fibrinolysis were associated with metastasis in tumour-bearing dogs without haemorrhage; when identified, they should prompt further diagnostics to detect possible metastasis of a primary carcinoma or sarcoma.
Swelling disease of Angora goats is characterised by panhypoproteinaemia, leukocytosis, and hyperaldosteronaemia
Parsons, Sven David Charles; Hobson, M.; Wepener, Melanie; Mtetwa, T.; Hooijberg, Emma Henriette; Clift, Sarah Jane (Medpharm Publications, 2025-10)
BACKGROUND : Swelling disease is a poorly understood clinical syndrome of South African Angora goats that is characterised by acute-onset diffuse oedema. Adrenocorticotropic hormone-stimulated aldosterone secretion has been proposed as a possible aetiology of swelling disease, but this hypothesis has not been tested. OBJECTIVES : To investigate aldosterone secretion in swelling disease by reanalysing data collected during a 2015 clinical investigation of the syndrome in which serum aldosterone and cortisol levels were measured along with standard clinical laboratory variables in affected and unaffected animals. METHODS : Goats affected with swelling disease, and unaffected herd-mates, were sampled for measurement of haematology variables, serum protein variables, and serum sodium, aldosterone, and cortisol. Results for affected and unaffected goats were compared using the Mann-Whitney U test, and the association between variables was investigated using Spearman’s rank-order correlation analysis. RESULTS : Goats affected with swelling disease had significantly higher white blood cell counts (WBC) and serum aldosterone than unaffected animals, and significantly lower total serum protein (TSP), albumin, globulin, and albumin/globulin ratios. For all animals (n = 60), serum protein variables showed a significant and strong positive correlation with one another, and a negative correlation with serum aldosterone and WBC. CONCLUSION : Swelling disease of South African Angora goats is characterised by panhypoproteinaemia, a low A/G ratio, leukocytosis, and hyperaldosteronaemia. Causal relationships between variables could not be determined, however, the detection of hyperaldosteronaemia provides novel insight into the possible pathophysiological mechanisms of this syndrome.
Quantification of Angora goat beta chain haemoglobin variants using the Sebia Capillarys 2 Flex-Piercing system
Parsons, Sven David Charles; Vermeulen, A.; Hobson, M.; Hooijberg, Emma Henriette (Medpharm Publications, 2025-02)
This study aimed to evaluate the utility of the Sebia Capillarys 2 Flex-Piercing (C2FP) system for the quantification of the major caprine beta chain haemoglobin (Hb) variants, i.e. foetal Hb, neonatal Hb, and adult Hb. Blood samples were collected from six Angora kids at one, 11, and 20 weeks after birth, and analysed using the C2FP instrument and Capillarys Hemoglobin(E) kit. Electropherograms displayed three major peaks which showed consistent changes in relative magnitude as kids aged. At one week old, a peak at position ~75 was identified as foetal Hb, while in older animals, peaks at ~150 and ~170 were identified as neonatal Hb and adult Hb, respectively. In conclusion, this study has confirmed the utility of the Sebia C2FP system for the simple, rapid, and standardised quantification of the major beta chain Hb variants of Angora goats.
Etorphine induces pathophysiology in immobilized white rhinoceros through sympathomimesis that is attenuated by butorphanol
Boesch, Jordyn Marie; Gleed, Robin D.; Buss, Peter Erik; Tordiffe, Adrian Stephen Wolferstan; Zeiler, Gareth Edward; Miller, Michele A.; Viljoen, Francois; Harvey, Brian H.; Parry, Stephen A.; Meyer, Leith Carl Rodney (Oxford University Press, 2025-04)
Please read abstract in the article. LAY SUMMARY White rhinoceros are a sentinel species for ecosystems in southern Africa. Their conservation is dependent on occasional immobilization with the ultra-potent opioid etorphine. Unfortunately, etorphine produces sympathetic nervous system upregulation and severe physiological perturbations that may cause morbidity and mortality. Attenuating its effects contributes to white rhinoceros conservation.
Shape and variability of the normal medial coronoid process by computed tomography in young adult labrador retrievers
Van der Laan, Luzanne; Kirberger, Robert M.; Fosgate, Geoffrey Theodore; Le Roux, Christelle (Wiley, 2025-11)
Medial coronoid process disease (MCPD) is the most frequently observed cause of elbow dysplasia, resulting in lameness in young, fast‐growing large‐breed dogs, including Labrador Retrievers (LRs). Computed tomography (CT) is the diagnostic imaging modality of choice for evaluating the medial coronoid process (MCP), as it is noninvasive and eliminates superimposition of the process by the radial head. This retrospective descriptive study aimed to describe the shape of the normal MCP on CT, to assess its variability within the LR breed, and to determine the normal Hounsfield units (HUs) of the MCP, medial radial head (MRH), and lateral radial head (LRH). Normal elbow CT studies of 51 South African guide dog LRs were reviewed. Using a repeatable imaging alignment technique, three principal MCP shapes were identified: ovoid, triangular, and softly pointed and were found to be dependent on the level of assessment. Males had significantly lower mean MCP HU compared to females. The mean HU of the MRH was consistently higher than the LRH and was also greater in attenuation on subjective assessment. Measuring MCP and radial head HU too proximally was suboptimal, as volume averaging was frequently encountered. The results of this study showed that although different alignment techniques may result in HU variations, they will not affect the HU to such an extent that the MCP would be misclassified as abnormal.

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