Medicine and Pharmacology

Abstract: This study characterized the cultivable oral microbiota of domestic dogs and evaluated antimicrobial susceptibility patterns and resistance accumulation in a veterinary context. A cross-sectional analytical design was conducted including 100 domestic dogs attended in urban veterinary clinics in southern Ecuador, from which 139 bacterial isolates were obtained through oral swabbing and conventional microbiological identification. Antimicrobial susceptibility was assessed using the disk diffusion method according to CLSI guidelines. Resistance accumulation was defined as the number of antimicrobial classes to which each isolate exhibited resistance, and multidrug resistance as resistance to three or more classes. A predominance of Gram-negative bacteria was observed (65.5%), with Pseudomonas (27.3%), Klebsiella (20.9%), and Enterobacter (7.9%) as the most frequent genera, while Staphylococcus aureus represented 34.5% of isolates. Resistance to at least one antimicrobial was detected in 71.2% of isolates, and multidrug resistance in 9.4% of the total dataset, exclusively among Gram-negative bacteria, corresponding to 14.3% within this group. Resistance to two or more antimicrobial classes was observed in 42.9% of Gram-negative isolates. Multivariable logistic regression showed that bacterial genus was the only factor significantly associated with resistance accumulation, with Enterobacter presenting a higher odds ratio compared to Pseudomonas (adjusted OR = 16.30; 95% CI: 1.69–157.14; p = 0.016), while host-related variables were not significant (p > 0.05). These results indicate that antimicrobial resistance in the canine oral microbiota is primarily structured by bacterial identity rather than host factors, highlighting the role of the oral cavity as a reservoir of resistant bacteria with implications for veterinary clinical practice and epidemiological surveillance.

Abstract: Feline gingivostomatitis is an inflammatory syndrome of the oral mucosa characterized by chronic pain. Its multifactorial etiology and debilitating consequences are associated with difficult clinical management and high relapse rates even after invasive interventions, potentially severely compromising the animals’ quality of life. Cannabidiol (CBD) has been investigated for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, analgesic, and immunomodulatory effects and is considered a potential therapeutic alternative for chronic inflammatory diseases. The present report aims to describe a significant clinical improvement in a 5-year-old mixed-breed male cat affected by feline gingivostomatitis, presenting with hyporexia and sialorrhea. A broad-spectrum Cannabis oil rich in CBD was prescribed at doses ranging from 0.5 to 1.0 mg/kg, administered twice daily for two months. Early clinical improvement was observed from the first day of administration, with a dose-dependent response, ultimately resulting in an overall satisfactory clinical outcome. Therefore, it can be concluded that the clinical application of a broad-spectrum Cannabis oil rich in CBD may represent a promising therapeutic alternative for cats affected by feline gingivostomatitis, especially in refractory cases or those with limitations to conventional therapies.

Abstract: Feline Infectious Peritonitis (FIP) has been transformed from a fatal disease to a treatable condition following the introduction of GS-441524, a nucleoside analogue targeting feline coronavirus replication. However, the widespread use of unregulated compounded formulations and the absence of validated analytical tools for therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) represent critical gaps in clinical FIP management. This study describes the development and full ICH M10-compliant validation of a high-throughput LC-MS/MS method for the quantification of GS-441524 in feline serum, incorporating an automated protein precipitation protocol and a PBS-BSA surrogate matrix in accordance with 3Rs principles. The method met all acceptance criteria across validated parameters, including linearity (0.1–50 µg/mL), accuracy (bias within ±12.5%), precision (CV ≤10.9%), selectivity, extraction recovery (87.5–107.9%), and stability under clinically relevant storage conditions. Matrix equivalence between PBS-BSA and authentic feline serum was confirmed, enabling routine calibration without animal-derived materials. The validated method was applied to clinical TDM in cats undergoing GS-441524 treatment for FIP, providing preliminary evidence of inter-individual pharmacokinetic variability. The compounded formulations administered to the TDM cohort were independently verified by LC-MS/MS, confirming drug content within ±15% of labelled claims and excluding pharmaceutical quality as a confounding factor in the interpretation of serum drug concentrations.

Abstract: Cranial cruciate ligament (CrCL) rupture in cats is less common than in dogs, and its optimal treatment remains a subject of debate. The aim of this study was to evaluate the application of cranial tibial wedge osteotomy technique (CTWO) as a dynamic stabilization technique in cats with CrCL rupture, describing the technical aspects and clinical outcomes obtained. Five cases with a confirmed diagnosis of CrCL rupture between 2020 and 2024 were included in this study. All patients were treated with CTWO using specific osteosynthesis locking plates for this technique in dogs and a complementary cerclage wire. Radiographic rechecks were performed at 8 and 12 weeks postoperatively and clinical evaluations were performed 24 hours, 8 weeks, 12 weeks and six months postoperatively in every patient. Successful and complete bone healing of the tibial osteotomy was observed in every case. No intraoperative or postoperative complications related to implants or soft tissues were recorded. All cats achieved a complete functional recovery without lameness at the last recheck six months after surgery. The technique was performed without significant technical difficulties, providing adequate stability and favorable clinical outcomes in all cases. Although the use of a cranial tibial wedge osteotomy in combination with a tibial plateau leveling osteotomy (TPLO) was reported by Hoot et al to treat a cruciate ligament rupture in a cat presenting a deformity of the proximal tibia (Hoot et al), to the authors´ knowledge the use of the cranial tibial wedge osteotomy as single technique to treat the CrCL rupture in cats has not been previously reported in the literature. These preliminary results support the use of CTWO as an effective surgical alternative for the treatment of CrCL rupture in cats. However, further studies with a larger number of cases and a longer follow-up are required to evaluate better its clinical application, outcomes and influence on osteoarthritis progression in the long term.

Abstract: Osteoarthritis (OA) in companion animals is a progressive and debilitating condition for which current treatments primarily provide symptomatic relief without modifying disease progression. Cell-free regenerative approaches have recently emerged as promising alternatives. This study evaluated the clinical effectiveness of membrane-free stem cell extract (MF-STEM) in canine and feline osteoarthritis in comparison with intra-articular hyaluronic acid in a real-world clinical setting. A total of 271 animals were enrolled, including an MF-STEM group (n = 210) and a control group (n = 61), with treatment allocation based on owner preference. Clinical outcomes were assessed using the Joint Evaluation Index (JEI), along with recovery and recurrence rates. MF-STEM treatment resulted in a marked reduction in JEI scores (12.3 → 2.2), compared with a more limited decrease in the control group (11.3 → 7.0). The recovery rate was significantly higher in the MF-STEM group (93.3% vs. 32.8%), while the recurrence rate within one year was substantially lower (2.4% vs. 60.6%). No treatment-related adverse events were observed (0%). Although the non-randomized design limits causal interpretation, key baseline characteristics were generally comparable between groups, and consistent improvements were observed across multiple outcome measures in a relatively large real-world cohort. In conclusion, MF-STEM demonstrated clinically meaningful improvements in canine and feline osteoarthritis and may suggest a potential to influence disease progression with sustained therapeutic benefits. Further randomized controlled and mechanistic studies are required to confirm these findings.

Abstract: The present study evaluated the effects of three β‑adrenergic agonists, salbutamol, clenbuterol, and terbutaline on growth performance and the kinetics of residue depletion in broiler chickens. A total of 100 Ross 308 chicks were randomly allocated to six treatment groups and one untreated control group. Each β‑agonist was administered via drinking water at two concentration levels (2.5 mg/L and 5 mg/L) starting on Day 19 of age. Body weight was monitored from Day 20 to Day 40 to assess growth performance. Additionally, residue depletion was investigated in breast muscle, liver, kidney, and feathers at predefined time points after treatment cessation. All β‑agonist‑treated groups exhibited significantly reduced body‑weight gain compared with the control group, regardless of compound or dose, indicating that none of the tested β‑agonists conferred growth‑promoting effects in broiler chickens under the conditions of this study. Residue analysis revealed rapid absorption and widespread tissue distribution of all three compounds, with the highest residue concentrations detected during the early post‑exposure period, particularly in kidney and liver tissues. Residue levels declined progressively during withdrawal and fell below the corresponding decision limits (CCα) in all edible tissues at later sampling points. Quantitative residue determination was performed using a validated liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS) method compliant with Commission Decision 2002/657/EC. The findings confirm that salbutamol, clenbuterol, and terbutaline do not improve growth performance in broiler chickens and are efficiently eliminated from edible tissues when appropriate withdrawal periods are observed. These results support existing regulatory restrictions on the use of β‑agonists in poultry production and provide additional evidence relevant to food‑safety risk management.

Abstract: A 7-year-old, 38.3 kg, male neutered Labrador retriever presented to the Teaching Hospital for a consultation of Comprehensive Oral Health Assessment and Treatment. Nine months prior to the consultation, the patient presented to the ER service due to acute right facial swelling. To further evaluate the swelling, the patient was sedated by IV administration of dexmedetomidine and fentanyl, and ventricular premature contractions (VPCs) were confirmed. The facial swelling subsided afterward, but it recurred. Therefore, a dental procedure under general anesthesia was scheduled. Although norepinephrine CRI was initiated to treat the hypotension perioperatively, VPCs were noticed a few minutes after norepinephrine CRI. After the dental procedure, a prolonged recovery was observed, and naloxone (0.01 mg/kg) was administered IV to reverse the effects of fentanyl. Before administration of naloxone, the HR was 80 bpm. Within one minute of administering naloxone, the patient was extubated. However, the HR surged to 240 bpm, and sinus tachycardia was observed. Ninety minutes after naloxone IV, the HR was 105 bpm with normal sinus rhythm, gradually approaching the pre-anesthesia HR level (110 bpm). Veterinarians should recognize that administration of naloxone could induce arrhythmias. Therefore, continuous monitoring of ECG, pulse, and blood pressure is imperative when administering naloxone.

Abstract: Hypospadias is a congenital malformation of the male external genitalia resulting from incomplete fusion of the urethral folds during embryonic development. The perineal form represents the most severe phenotype and is frequently associated with abnormalities such as cryptorchidism and penile hypoplasia. Although surgical correction is generally recommended in young dogs, the long-term clinical course of severe hypospadias under conservative management remains poorly documented. In this study, we describe an un-usual canine case of severe perineal hypospadias that survived to geriatric age under conservative management and subsequently developed bilateral testicular tumors arising from cryptorchid testes. Despite recurrent urinary tract infections during early life, the pa-tient maintained an acceptable quality of life with long-term supportive care, providing a rare clinical example of extended survival without surgical correction. Because no molec-ular material was available from the patient, publicly available mouse transcriptomic da-tasets related to genital tubercle development and Leydig cell differentiation were con-sulted only as contextual reference. These datasets illustrate established developmental regulators and steroidogenic pathways relevant to genital formation and testicular func-tion but do not represent direct molecular findings from the reported case. This report primarily highlights the clinical course and management of severe hypospadias in a dog, while using existing transcriptomic knowledge solely to provide biological context. The findings should therefore be interpreted as descriptive and hypothesis-generating rather than as evidence of a direct mechanistic link between developmental abnormalities and endocrine tumorigenesis.

Abstract: Neurochemical imbalances in the striatum are thought to contribute to the patho-physiology of DYT1 dystonia (TOR1A), a severe movement disorder. Parvalbumin- positive GABAergic fast-spiking interneurons (PV+ FSI) exert a powerful inhibition within the striatal microcircuitry. To elucidate the impact of PV+ FSI on striatal neu-rotransmitter dynamics in a DYT1 knock-in (KI) mouse model, we combined optoge-netic inhibition of PV+ FSI with in vivo microdialysis (optodialysis) and LC-MS/MS analysis. Dialysates were collected across baseline (light off), stimulation (light on, 595 nm) and post-stimulation (light off) periods. Basal extracellular concentrations of sev-eral analytes, including GABA, dopamine and adenosine, showed no significant dif-ferences between wildtype (WT) and DYT1 KI mice. In WT mice, PV+ FSI inhibition decreased GABA and adenosine levels. In contrast, DYT1 KI mice showed no change in GABA and only a delayed reduction in adenosine post-stimulation. Dopamine, choline or 5-HIAA were largely unaffected by optogenetic inhibition, with the exception of a genotype-specific reduction of 5-HIAA in the post-stimulation period. These findings suggest impaired inhibitory and neuromodulatory control in the DYT1 KI mice, po-tentially reflecting compensatory circuit adaptations. The results provide novel insights into striatal microcircuit function in DYT1 dystonia, establish a basis for exploring circuit-level alterations in other movement disorders, and may inform future thera-peutic strategies.

Abstract: Combination of antiparasitic drugs with different mechanisms of action has been suggested as an effective strategy to delay the development of parasite resistance. Upon the need to understand the pharmacological basis of drug combinations, the current study evaluated the potential pharmacokinetic (PK) interactions and the clinical efficacy (pharmacodynamic response) occurring after the subcutaneous administration of ivermectin (IVM) and levamisole (LEV) given both separately and co-administered to parasitized calves on three commercial farms (A, B and C). Sixty (60) male calves naturally infected with gastrointestinal nematodes were randomly allocated into three groups (n= 15): IVM: treated with IVM by subcutaneous injection (0.2 mg/kg); LEV: treated subcutaneously with LEV (8 mg/kg); IVM+LEV: simultaneously treated with IVM and LEV (2 subcutaneous injections at the same dose rates). Seven (7) animals from each treated group (farm C) were randomly selected to perform the PK study. Drug concentrations were measured by HPLC. The therapeutic response (efficacy) was determined at 14 days after treatment by the fecal eggs reduction test (FECRT). The mean IVM area under the concentration vs time curve (AUC) obtained after administration of IVM alone (274 ng.d/mL) was similar to that obtained when IVM was co-administered with LEV (295 ng.d/mL). Likewise, mean LEV AUC values were similar after LEV administration alone (8.90 µg.h/mL) or combined with IVM (9.11 µg.h/mL). No adverse PK interactions were observed after the combined treatment, with similar PK parameters (P>0.05) obtained between the single-drug and the combination-based strategies. On farm A, the overall therapeutic responses (clinical efficacy) were 38% (IVM), 99% (LEV) and 100% (IVM+LEV). While the gastrointestinal nematode species Cooperia spp. and Haemonchus spp. survived the IVM treatment, Haemonchus spp. survived the LEV treatment. Similarly, total efficacies were 42% (IVM), 99% (LEV) and 100% (IVM+LEV) on farm B, and 54% (IVM), 99% (LEV) and 100% (IVM+LEV) on farm C. On those farms, IVM was ineffective against Cooperia spp. and/or Haemonchus spp., while LEV failed to control Ostertagia spp. Remarkably, the combination of both molecules was the only treatment that achieved 100% efficacy against all nematode genera (Cooperia, Ostertagia, Haemonchus and Oesophagostomum spp.). Based on the described PK-pharmacodynamic (PK-PD) assessment, the IVM+LEV combination appears to be a promising pharmacological option for controlling resistant gastrointestinal nematodes in cattle, with the additional potential to delay the progression of nematode anthelmintic resistance. Overall, the work described here contributes with sound and original pharmacology data useful to optimize parasite control in livestock. This drug combination strategy may enhance treatment efficacy while promoting more sustainable parasite management practices in cattle production systems.

Abstract: Severe nasal vestibular stenosis in brachycephalic cats involves species-specific anatomi-cal structures distinct from those in dogs, often leading to a high recurrence rate even after standard surgical correction. This case report introduces an innovative surgical strategy for a refractory Exotic Shorthair cat presenting with obligate open-mouth breathing and complete nasal obstruction despite three previous surgical interventions. To remove the recurrent scar tissue and maximize the nasal vestibular lumen, a combined surgical ap-proach was performed, incorporating a modified Trader's technique, bilateral wedge re-section, and bilateral single pedicle advancement flaps. To maintain the acquired airway and prevent restenosis, a steroid-eluting bioabsorbable implant (PROPEL Contour) was placed within the resected nasal vestibule, marking its first application in veterinary medicine. Postoperatively, open-mouth breathing resolved immediately. At the three-month follow-up, normal nasal breathing was maintained without restenosis or nasal discharge, and no implant-related adverse effects or infections were observed. The concurrent application of radical structural resection and a PROPEL Contour implant ef-fectively suppresses tissue regrowth and maintains stable nasal patency, offering a highly promising therapeutic protocol for refractory feline nasal vestibular stenosis.

Abstract: Potassium homeostasis is essential for maintaining membrane potential and normal neuromuscular function. Although potassium disturbances are clinically relevant in several species, their prevalence and prognostic significance in pet rabbits remain poorly characterized. This retrospective study evaluated plasma potassium concentrations at admission in 1,773 venous samples from 1,312 pet rabbits and assessed associations with mortality, glycemia, and renal markers (BUN and creatinine) using i-Stat portable analyzer. Normokalemia (3.4–5.7mmol/L) was observed in 78.1% of samples, while hypokalemia and hyperkalemia occurred in 13.9% and 8.0%, respectively. Overall, 7-day mortality was 21.3%, with most deaths (68.7%) occurring within 48 hours. Both hypo- and hyperkalemia were associated with increased mortality, with hyperkalemia conferring the greatest risk (relative risk up to 5.4 at 24 h; P< 0.0001). Potassium concentrations were higher in non-survivors at all time points. Hyperkalemia was also associated with hypoglycemia and azotemia (P< 0.0001), suggesting impaired renal potassium excretion and possible alterations in insulinmediated cellular potassi-um uptake. No consistent association was observed between hyperglycemia and hyperkalemia. These findings indicate that plasma potassium disturbances are common in pet rabbits and are associated with short-term mortality and metabolic derangements. Early identification and correction of potassium imbalances and their causes may improve outcomes in critically ill rabbits.

Abstract: Yellow fever (YF) remains a significant vector-borne zoonotic disease in tropical regions of the Americas, despite the availability of an effective vaccine for more than eight decades. In South America, the virus is maintained primarily through a jungle transmission cycle involving mosquitoes of the genera Haemagogus and Sabethes and several species of non-human primates (NHPs), which serve as amplifying hosts and important epidemiological sentinels. This narrative review revisits the current status of YF epizootics in South America and examines their implications for surveillance, ecological dynamics, and the risk of spillover to human populations. The review synthesizes recent evidence on the role of NHPs in the maintenance and detection of YF virus circulation, highlighting the high susceptibility of certain neotropical primates, particularly species of the genus Alouatta, which often experience high mortality during outbreaks. Reports of epizootics across Brazil, Colombia, Peru, Bolivia, and Venezuela illustrate the virus's ongoing circulation and geographic expansion in tropical ecosystems. Ecological factors such as deforestation, habitat fragmentation, environmental change, and increased human activity in forested areas modify transmission dynamics and increase opportunities for spillover to humans. The integration of wildlife monitoring, entomological surveillance, genomic analysis, and epidemiological data is essential to improve early detection and response. In this context, the One Health framework provides a comprehensive approach to understanding the complex interactions among humans, animals, and ecosystems that drive YF transmission. Strengthening regional surveillance systems, improving laboratory capacities, and promoting coordinated public health interventions are critical to preventing human outbreaks and mitigating the ecological and public health impact of YF in South America.

Abstract: This study investigated the effects of dietary nano-antimicrobial peptides (NAPs) on the microbial communities and metabolic profiles in Tibetan sheep. Using 16S rRNA gene high-throughput sequencing and non-targeted metabolomics, the contents of the small intestine, rumen, and rectum were systematically analyzed in a control group (Group A) and a NAP-supplemented group (Group B). Multi-omics integration methods, including O2PLS and Pearson correlation analysis, were employed to explore the association between microbial communities and metabolites. Alpha and beta diversity analyses revealed significant differences (P < 0.05) in the microbial community structure of the small intestine between the two groups. In contrast, the rumen and rectal microbiota remained relatively stable, indicating that the regulatory effects of NAPs on the intestinal microecology are site-specific. In the small intestine, NAPs altered the composition of dominant functional microbiota and the abundance of taxa related to energy metabolism. Metabolomic analysis identified significant shifts in metabolic profiles, specifically within the bile acid, fatty acid, and phospholipid pathways (P < 0.05). Group A exhibited baseline steady-state characteristics (e.g., cholic acids and phospholipids), whereas Group B showed activation of unsaturated fatty acids and related metabolites. Multi-omics integration revealed a stable systematic association between intestinal microbial genera and metabolites. Specifically, bile acid and prostaglandin metabolites were negatively correlated with Firmicutes-related taxa, suggesting a potential role for bile acid metabolism in regulating intestinal microecology and host immunity. These findings suggest that NAP supplementation may contribute to maintaining host energy metabolism and intestinal homeostasis by regulating intestinal microecology.

Abstract: Mycotoxin contamination of cattle feed commonly results in chronic, subclinical exposure with adverse effects on liver function and oxidative status. This controlled field trial evaluated a multi-component mycotoxin detoxifier in fattening mixed Limousin calves fed naturally contaminated diets under commercial production conditions. Twenty-four clinically healthy calves were randomly allocated to a control group or to a treatment group receiving a detoxifying additive containing adsorbent clays, phytogenic extracts (silymarin and curcumin) and yeast-derived components for 60 days. Feed, blood, fecal and liver samples were analyzed to assess biochemical, oxidative and histopathological re-sponses throughout the experimental period. The diet contained aflatoxin B1, fumonisins and zearalenone at concentrations exceeding guidance limits, indicating chronic mul-ti-mycotoxin exposure. No clinical signs of overt mycotoxicosis were observed. All bio-chemical parameters remained within physiological ranges; however, γ-glutamyl trans-ferase activity and protein carbonyl levels were significantly lower in treated calves com-pared with controls (p < 0.05). Other oxidative stress markers did not differ between groups, and histopathology revealed only mild, non-specific liver changes. In conclusion, supplementation with the tested mycotoxin detoxifier was safe and associated with im-proved hepatic enzyme regulation and reduced protein oxidative damage under field conditions.

Abstract: The radiographic appearance of the urinary bladder in guinea pigs (Cavia porcellus) affected by cystitis is poorly characterized. This retrospective case-control study assessed the radiographic characteristics of the urinary bladder (digital abdominal and whole-body radiographs) in 24 healthy guinea pigs and 24 guinea pigs diagnosed with cystitis. Inclusion criteria for the cystitis cohort included presence of clinical signs (hematuria, incontinence, stranguria, abdominal discomfort, apathy, and inappetence), leukocyturia and/or bacteriuria, complemented by right lateral radiographs and either ultrasound or a positive urine culture. Radiographic criteria indicative of cystitis were systematically evaluated using a vertebral bladder score (VBS) expressed in lumbar vertebral units (LVU) and reference marker lines on lateral radiographs to assess urinary bladder distension. Compared to the control group, radiographs of guinea pigs with cystitis demonstrated increased bladder opacity (46% of cases) and solitary uroliths (25%). Bladder height in patients with cystitis exceeded that of healthy counterparts (median: 16.6 vs 13.0 mm). The VBS in the cystitis group was significantly elevated (median: 1.50 vs 1.20 LVU). This investigation revealed that enhanced bladder distension and increased bladder opacity, with a VBS surpassing 1.3 LVU, correlated with the presence of cystitis.

Abstract:

Photosensitisation is a clinically significant dermatological and systemic disorder affecting grazing livestock worldwide. The condition arises following the ingestion or dermal exposure to photodynamic compounds that, upon activation by ultraviolet (UV) or visible light, induce tissue injury. Plant‑associated photosensitisation remains one of the most important aetiological categories in veterinary toxicology and may occur via primary (direct phototoxic) or secondary (hepatogenous) mechanisms. This review synthesises current knowledge on the occurrence of photosensitising compounds in plants, their biochemical and toxicodynamic properties, and their clinical relevance in livestock species. Emphasis is placed on major primary photosensitising taxa, including Heracleum spp. and Hypericum perforatum, as well as hepatotoxic pyrrolizidine alkaloid‑containing plants such as Senecio spp. Mechanistic pathways, plant metabolite ecology, and toxicopathological outcomes are discussed alongside illustrative case material. The review aims to provide a consolidated veterinary toxicology framework for understanding plant‑associated photosensitisation in grazing systems.

Abstract: Dermatophytosis is a superficial fungal skin disease of cats and dogs. The most common pathogen of small animals belongs to the genera Microsporum and Trichophyton. It is an important skin disease because it is contagious and can be transmitted to people. Refractory dermatophytosis has become an increasing concern in dermatological practice due to poor response to standard antifungal therapy. The condition is characterised by chronicity, recurrence or persistence despite adequate treatment. This study aimed to assess the clinical profile and therapeutic outcomes in patients with refractory dermatophytosis. An 8-year-old intact male Spitz dog weighing 10 kg, presented with persistent alopecia, scaling, erythema and pruritus despite multiple courses of systemic and topical antifungal agents. Diagnosis was confirmed by microscopic examination, culture and punch biopsy. Due to the lack of response to standard therapy, Posaconazole was initiated based on antifungal susceptibility testing (AFST); however, AFST is not routinely performed for dermatophytosis, although it may provide valuable guidance in refractory infections by identifying reduced susceptibility or resistance to commonly used antifungal agents. Marked clinical improvement was observed, with complete clinical and mycological cure achieved without adverse effects. This report highlights a case of refractory dermato-phytosis in which antifungal susceptibility testing guided the successful use of Posaconazole. The case highlights the diagnostic challenges associated with recurrent dermatophytosis and underscores the potential role of antifungal susceptibility-guided therapy in managing treatment-resistant infections. Hence, Posaconazole is a promising alternative antifungal agent for managing refractory dermatophytosis in dogs.

Abstract: Myxomatous mitral valve disease (MMVD) is the most common acquired heart valve disease in dogs and it may contribute to cardiovascular-renal axis disorders (CvRD) in dogs. Sensitive and early biomarkers of renal involvement are needed. In this prospective and observational study, 84 dogs were enrolled (20 healthy dogs and 64 dogs with MMVD, categorized using the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine guidelines. Serum and urinary parameters were analyzed, including tubular biomarkers expressed as creatinine-ratios: urinary alkaline phosphatase (uALPc), gamma-glutamyl transferase (uGGTc), N-acetyl-β-D-glucosaminidase (uNAGc) and cystatin C (uCystc). uALPc, uGGTc and uNAGc were higher in MMVD than in controls; uALPc and uGGTc were increased from stage B1, uNAGc was higher in stages with cardiomegaly (B2 and C+D), and uCystc increased mainly in clinical stages (C+D). Serum renal markers increased only in clinical stages. ROC analysis showed good discrimination for MMVD with uALPc (AUC 0.87) and uGGTc (0.86); for cardiomegaly with uALPc (0.77) and uNAGc (0.75); and for congestive heart failure with SDMA (0.85) and uCystc (0.75). No urinary biomarker was associated with daily furosemide dose. Urinary tubular biomarkers, particularly uALPc and uGGTc, detect early CvRD in dogs with MMVD and complement traditional serum markers.

Abstract: Lactic acid bacteria are commonly investigated as probiotic microorganisms for improving gut health and reducing antibiotic use in swine production. This study aimed to isolate and perform preliminary phenotypic screening of presumptive probiotic bacteria from feces of healthy piglets raised without antibiotic or probiotic supplementation. Fecal samples (n = 42) were collected from piglets of different ages, and LAB isolates were obtained using selective culture-based methods. A total of 135 Gram-positive, cata-lase-negative bacilli were subjected to in vitro evaluation of selected probiotic-related characteristics, including tolerance to acidic and bile conditions, cell surface hydropho-bicity, hemolytic activity, and antimicrobial activity against swine-associated indicator bacteria. Two isolates (PMvet212 and PMvet318) survived exposure to pH 3.1 with less than 1 log CFU/mL reduction and tolerated 0.3% bile salt, while PMvet212 also survived at 0.5% bile salt. Both isolates exhibited low hydrophobicity values (7.85–12.38%) and showed alpha-hemolytic activity. Cell-free supernatants from these isolates inhibited Escherichia coli isolated from diarrheic piglets and Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 6538, with inhibition zones classified as intermediate. Overall, the results indicate that a limited number of piglet-derived isolates exhibit in vitro tolerance to gastrointestinal stress con-ditions and moderate antimicrobial activity. This study provides preliminary data to support further identification, safety assessment, and in vivo evaluation of selected isolates for potential application in swine health management.