April 2007

Canine Mammary Gland: Squamous cell carcinoma with intralymphatic invasion

Mammary tumors can occur as single or multiple nodules within a mammary gland or chain. The majority of mammary gland tumors occur in glands 4 and 5 (60-70%). These glands appear to contain the most mammary tissue indicating a possible reason. Mammary tumors can metastasize to regional lymph nodes, such as the inguinal lymph nodes via lymphatic vessesls as seen above. This can lead to afferent lymphatic blockage causing edema of the limbs (usually the rear limbs). Metastases can continue to the pudendal and the internal iliac lymph nodes causing pressure and stenosis of the colon.

May 2007

Canine Demodecosis

Canine demodicosis results from an unexplained proliferation of Demodex canis mites within hair follicles. It occurs as a localised disease (onset in young dogs, resolves spontaneously within 6-8 weeks) or as a generalised disease (CGD), which carries a more guarded prognosis, although there are reports of spontaneous resolution in dogs less than 1.5 years of age. CGD is also usually juvenile in onset but adult onset disease also occurs which may reflect an underlying immunosuppressive disease. Bacterial infection is a frequent significant complication of CGD.

June 2007

Cavine Hypovitaminosis C (Scurvy)

Guinea Pigs do not posess the ability for synthesise Vitamin C (Ascorbic acid) which is required for elastin and collagen synthesis. It also promotes osteoblastic differentiation essential in endochondrial ossification. Deficiency induces metaphyseal fagility and predisposition to trauma. Peri-articular (major joints and costochondral junctions) haemorrage is common. Histological findings are located primarily in the metaphysis where naked spicules of calcified cartilage, derived from the zone of provisional calcification in the growth plate, persist as a "scorbutic lattice".