Pathology: Gastrointestinal Tract
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Questions and Answers

What is the primary difference between erosion and ulceration in the gastrointestinal tract?

  • Ulceration is limited to the mucosal layer only.
  • Ulceration occurs when some epithelial layers are damaged.
  • Erosion occurs when all epithelial layers are lost.
  • Erosion involves partial loss of epithelial layers. (correct)

    • Melaena refers to undigested blood found in the faeces.

    False

    What are the two types of diarrhoea classified based on the location of fluid loss?

    small bowel diarrhoea and large bowel diarrhoea

    The _____ layer of the gastrointestinal tract is primarily responsible for secretion and absorption.

    <p>mucosa</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which cells in the stomach secrete hydrochloric acid (HCl)?

    <p>Parietal cells</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Define dysphagia.

    <p>Difficulty swallowing.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the gastrointestinal classifications with their definitions:

    <p>Erosion = Partial loss of epithelial layers Ulceration = Complete loss of epithelial layers Dysphagia = Difficulty in swallowing Melaena = Digested blood in the faeces</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Peyer’s patches are located beneath the mucosa in the _____ section of the gastrointestinal tract.

    <p>ileum</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the age range of dairy calves commonly affected by the syndrome?

    <p>3-6 months</p> Signup and view all the answers

    BVD is identified in calves that present with the oral ulceration syndrome.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What type of trees are associated with a severe, fatal disease in cattle due to acorn ingestion?

    <p>oak</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Bluetongue is caused by a virus from the genus ______.

    <p>orbivirus</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the typical duration of outbreaks of the oral ulceration syndrome on a farm?

    <p>3-8 weeks</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which cells are primarily affected by the bluetongue virus?

    <p>endothelial cells</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the following terms with their descriptions:

    <p>Oral ulceration syndrome = Ill thrift and oral ulceration in calves Bluetongue = Transmitted by Culicoides spp. Acorn poisoning = Causes nephrosis and ulceration in cattle Photosensitisation = Erosions on the ventral midline of the tongue</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The typical morbidity rate for the oral ulceration syndrome in calves varies from ______% to ______% of a mob.

    <p>0.5, 100</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following tumors is the most common malignant oral tumor in dogs?

    <p>Melanoma</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Oral fibrosarcomas are more frequently seen in younger small breed dogs.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the acronym for squamous cell carcinoma often seen in dogs?

    <p>SCC</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In cattle, oral and esophageal SCC has been linked to ingestion of __________.

    <p>bracken fern</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the following diseases with the animals they affect:

    <p>Foot-and-mouth disease = Cattle, Pigs Vesicular stomatitis = Cattle, Pigs, Horses Swine vesicular disease = Pigs Senecavirus A = Pigs</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following statements about oral melanoma in dogs is true?

    <p>It can invade bone and ulcerate.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Oral lymphoma is the most common malignant oral tumor seen in dogs.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the median survival time for oral malignant melanoma in dogs?

    <p>2-3 months</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The family of the virus causing foot-and-mouth disease is called __________.

    <p>Picornaviridae</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the following descriptions with their corresponding disease:

    <p>FMD = Highly contagious disease affecting ruminants and pigs VS = Only vesicular disease in horses SVD = Disease resembling FMD in pigs VES = Caused by a vesivirus affecting marine mammals</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What notable symptom occurs in young calves affected by foot-and-mouth disease?

    <p>Myocarditis</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Vesicular stomatitis causes production losses primarily in horses.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary lesion location in swine vesicular disease?

    <p>Feet</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Morbidity is __________ in foot-and-mouth disease among affected animals.

    <p>high</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT a common clinical sign of gastrointestinal tract disease?

    <p>Joint pain</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Renal disease does not show clinical signs similar to gastrointestinal tract disease.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What diagnostic technique is often required to confirm a specific gastrointestinal disease?

    <p>Biopsy</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Postmortem examination of the gastrointestinal tract should include examining its ______ length.

    <p>entire</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is true about oral cavity examination during necropsy?

    <p>The mandibular symphysis must be cut.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Cleft palate can only occur in isolation without any associated skeletal abnormalities.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What might be a common complication associated with cleft palate?

    <p>Aspiration pneumonia</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the dental condition with its description:

    <p>Cleft palate = A separation in the roof of the mouth Dentigerous cyst = Contains part or all of a tooth in the jaw Enamel hypoplasia = Underdeveloped enamel on teeth Aspiration pneumonia = Lung infection due to inhaled materials</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Samples for bacterial culture can be collected by swabbing the mucosa with a __________ swab.

    <p>sterile</p> Signup and view all the answers

    When examining any mass in the gastrointestinal tract, what procedure may aid in diagnosis?

    <p>Fine needle aspirate</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Faecal samples can be used for bacterial culture as well as for detecting parasite eggs.

    <p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which plant has been associated with congenital anomalies like cleft palate?

    <p>Hemlock</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a common appearance of the gastrointestinal tract postmortem if the animal has been dead for more than 12 hours?

    <p>Red, green, or black discoloration</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Conditions like distemper and __________ viral diarrhoea are known to cause enamel hypoplasia.

    <p>bovine</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following syndromes can be caused by strains of BVD in cattle?

    <p>Teratogenesis</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Acute BVD infection generally results in high mortality rates in affected cattle.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a common characteristic of PI (persistent infection) cattle infected with non-cytopathic BVD virus?

    <p>Antibody negative and viral antigen positive</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The severe form of BVD resembling mucosal disease is often fatal, particularly in cattle aged __________ months.

    <p>6-24</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the disease to its associated clinical findings:

    <p>BVD = Erosions and ulcers in the oral cavity MCF = Generalised enlargement of lymph nodes Calf ulcerative stomatitis = New syndrome of oral ulceration in calves Mucosal disease = Severe lethargy and anorexia</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary cause of mucosal disease in cattle?

    <p>Superinfection by cytopathic BVD virus</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Congenital infection in lambs can lead to a condition known as 'hairy shakers'.

    <p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What type of immunological reaction is believed to cause ulcers in cattle with malignant catarrhal fever (MCF)?

    <p>Type IV hypersensitivity reaction</p> Signup and view all the answers

    BVD infection in pregnant cows may result in giving birth to __________ calves that are virus negative.

    <p>antibody positive</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What symptom might indicate a cow has mucosal disease?

    <p>Linear oral ulcers</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the postmortem findings with their corresponding disease:

    <p>BVD = Punctate ulcers in the abomasum MCF = Keratoconjunctivitis Mucosal disease = Necrotising vasculitis Calf ulcerative stomatitis = Oral ulceration</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Infection during pregnancy does not affect the health of the calves.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What symptom is associated with acute BVD in cattle?

    <p>Lethargy and mild diarrhoea</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Proliferation of immature lymphoid cells in MCF leads to enlargement of __________ organs.

    <p>lymphoid</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What causes brown discoloration of teeth in fluorosis?

    <p>Enamel hypoplasia</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Pigmentation of teeth can occur due to the administration of tetracycline antibiotics.

    <p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is dental attrition?

    <p>Normal wearing process of teeth with age.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The inflammation of the gums is known as _____

    <p>gingivitis</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the following dental conditions with their descriptions:

    <p>Fluorosis = Brown discoloration due to enamel hypoplasia Tetracycline staining = Yellow to grey discoloration in teeth Gingivitis = Inflammation of the gums Oral squamous cell carcinoma = Most common oral malignant tumor in cats</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following factors contributes to abnormal dental attrition?

    <p>Malocclusion of teeth</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Dental plaque is a mineralized form of bacteria and food particles.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the common cause of oral ulcers in dogs and cats associated with renal failure?

    <p>Uraemia</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Gingival hyperplasia is a reaction to chronic inflammation, especially around the _____ teeth.

    <p>canine</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which condition in cats is characterized by well-demarcated, reddish-brown, shallow ulcers?

    <p>Feline indolent ulcer</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Caries are usually common in dogs and cats.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What laid-back condition is characterized by a variable, locally extensive proliferative reaction to chronic inflammation?

    <p>Gingival hyperplasia</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Oral papillomas in dogs are caused by _____.

    <p>canine papillomavirus 1</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following dental diseases is mainly related to an imbalance in oral microbiota?

    <p>Feline ulcerative stomatitis</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a common symptom associated with dysentery?

    <p>Blood and mucus in faeces</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Chronic enterocolitis can develop without any preceding acute enteritis.

    <p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Name one infectious agent that can cause neonatal diarrhoea.

    <p>E.coli</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The term _______________ refers to the presence of fresh blood in normal faeces.

    <p>haematochezia</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the following terms with their descriptions:

    <p>Typhlitis = Inflammation of the caecum Colitis = Inflammation of the colon Neonatal diarrhoea = Diarrhoea in young animals Dysentery = Blood and mucus in watery faeces</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What factor is commonly responsible for neonatal diarrhoea in young animals?

    <p>Poor colostral immunity</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Mixed infections with more than one pathogen are rare in cases of neonatal diarrhoea.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What happens to the villi in chronic enteritis?

    <p>They become stunted and covered by cuboidal epithelium.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What electrolyte imbalances can occur due to diarrhoea associated with Parvovirus infections?

    <p>Decreased Na, K, and Cl</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Lymphopenia in Parvo infections occurs due to the virus causing lysis of lymphocytes.

    <p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What clinical finding is often observed during the recovery phase after neutropenia from a Parvo infection?

    <p>Neutrophilia with a left shift</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Adenoviruses can cause enteritis particularly in young animals, including cattle, pigs, sheep, and __________.

    <p>horses</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the following clinical findings with the corresponding viral conditions:

    <p>Decreased Na, K, Cl = Parvovirus infection Transient neutropenia = Parvovirus infection Infectious canine hepatitis = Adenovirus 2 Subclinical infections = Adenovirus in cattle</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a common clinical pathology finding in neonatal diarrhoea in calves?

    <p>Erythrocytosis</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Electrolyte depletion in cases of neonatal diarrhoea results in low levels of sodium and chloride.

    <p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What additional finding may indicate negative energy balance in calves with diarrhea?

    <p>Ketosis</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Common postmortem findings in neonatal diarrhoea include dehydration and __________ stain around the perineum.

    <p>faecal</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the following viral diseases with their characteristics:

    <p>Rotavirus = Necrosis of surface epithelium leading to villus atrophy Coronavirus = Severe atrophy of villi and affected crypts in the colon Parvovirus = Causes severe villus atrophy and can lead to panleukopenia Transmissible gastroenteritis (TGE) = Produces high mortality in suckling pigs</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which diagnostic test is commonly used to diagnose rotavirus infection?

    <p>ELISA test on faeces</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In cases of neonatal diarrhoea, metabolic acidosis is characterized by low levels of ______ and bicarbonate.

    <p>pH</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Euthanizing untreated live animals is not necessary before conducting a postmortem examination.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the serious consequence of tube-feeding in calves if the reticular groove fails to close?

    <p>Rumenitis</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Feline Infectious Peritonitis can be diagnosed via PCR test on effusions or __________.

    <p>tissue aspirates</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a common postmortem finding in neonatal diarrhoea?

    <p>Sunken eyes</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What cellular component is significantly affected by parvoviruses, particularly in dogs?

    <p>Intestinal crypts</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Both rotavirus and coronavirus infections result in diarrhoea due to malabsorption.

    <p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Rotavirus and coronaviruses are commonly found in newborn animals during their first __________ weeks of life.

    <p>2-3</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is one of the common clinical signs of acute pancreatic necrosis in dogs?

    <p>Vomiting</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Cats with pancreatitis commonly exhibit severe abdominal pain.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What enzyme level can increase within 24 hours of pancreatic injury?

    <p>Amylase</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Severe cases of pancreatitis can lead to signs such as respiratory distress and _____ arrhythmias.

    <p>cardiac</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the following clinical signs with the species affected:

    <p>Anorexia = Dogs Lethargy = Cats Vomiting = Dogs Weight loss = Cats</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which enzyme is primarily responsible for digesting lipids in the small intestine?

    <p>Lipase</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency results in excessive secretion of pancreatic enzymes.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What are the two types of pancreatic secretion deficiencies discussed?

    <p>Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency and pancreatitis</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The pancreas releases hormones involved in the control of __________ levels.

    <p>blood glucose</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the pancreatic enzymes with their function:

    <p>Amylase = Digest carbohydrates Protease = Digest proteins Lipase = Digest lipids</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the role of bicarbonate in pancreatic secretions?

    <p>To neutralize gastric acid</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Pancreatic lipase immunoreactivity (PLI) is a test used to specifically measure lipase levels from the pancreas.

    <p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What condition is caused by excess secretion of pancreatic enzymes?

    <p>Pancreatitis</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary triggering event in the development of acute pancreatic necrosis (APN)?

    <p>Activation of trypsinogen to trypsin</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Most dogs recover clinically from acute pancreatic necrosis.

    <p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

    List two common clinical signs of acute pancreatic necrosis in dogs.

    <p>Anorexia and vomiting</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In cats, acute interstitial pancreatitis is often associated with infections like __________.

    <p>Toxoplasma gondii</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the following conditions to their associated species:

    <p>Acute pancreatic necrosis = Dogs Interstitial pancreatitis = Cats Chronic pancreatitis = Cats Acute pancreatic degenerative necrosis due to zinc toxicity = Dogs</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following may increase due to cholestasis in pancreatitis?

    <p>Cholesterol levels</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Haematemesis is a common sign of moderate acute pancreatic necrosis in dogs.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What predisposing factor is commonly seen in dogs with acute pancreatic necrosis?

    <p>Obesity</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The systemic release of vasoactive substances in severe APN may lead to __________ injury.

    <p>myocardial</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following laboratory findings is NOT typically elevated in cats with acute pancreatitis?

    <p>Amylase</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary advantage of the DGGR method for measuring total lipase?

    <p>It has a faster turnaround and is more cost-effective.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In acute pancreatic necrosis, systemic effects can lead to respiratory distress.

    <p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is one potential outcome of unresolved acute pancreatic necrosis?

    <p>Diabetes mellitus</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The TLI assay is the most sensitive test for diagnosing pancreatitis.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What clinical sign is commonly associated with exocrine pancreatic insufficiency?

    <p>Weight loss despite increased appetite.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the following signs with their occurrence in dogs or cats:

    <p>Vomiting = Dogs Weight loss = Cats Abdominal pain = Dogs Dehydration = Both</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the potential mortality rate associated with severe acute pancreatic necrosis in dogs?

    <p>40%</p> Signup and view all the answers

    The _____ method is more sensitive and specific for diagnosing pancreatitis.

    <p>DGGR</p> Signup and view all the answers

    A common finding in routine biochemistry for dogs with pancreatitis is elevated levels of __________.

    <p>lipase</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the pancreatic conditions with their descriptions:

    <p>Acute pancreatic necrosis = Spontaneous enzyme activation in the pancreas Pancreatitis = Secondary spread of infection to the pancreas Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI) = Failure to produce pancreatic enzymes Juvenile pancreatic atrophy = Immune-mediated inflammation in young dogs</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which statement is true regarding the interpretation of amylase and lipase in EPI?

    <p>Lipase levels are usually normal.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Renal dysfunction can contribute to increased serum amylase activity.

    <p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What breed is particularly associated with juvenile pancreatic atrophy?

    <p>German Shepherds.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Increased lipase activity can be caused by ________ of the pancreatic duct.

    <p>blockage</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the testing methods to their characteristics:

    <p>Snap test = Qualitative in-clinic test Spec test = Quantitative lab test TLI assay = Used to assess pancreatic function DGGR method = Sensitive for pancreatitis detection</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which condition may lead to decreased serum TLI levels?

    <p>Pancreatic atrophy</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Trypsinogen is directly converted to trypsin in the systemic circulation.

    <p>False</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Name one common clinical sign of acute pancreatic necrosis.

    <p>Severe abdominal pain.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Diabetes mellitus may develop if pancreatic _____ cells are affected.

    <p>endocrine</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Study Notes

    Erosion and Ulceration

    • Erosion indicates partial loss of epithelial layers in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, while ulceration denotes complete loss down to the basement membrane.

    Diarrhoea

    • Defined as excess water in faeces; classified into small bowel (infrequent passage of large fluid stools) and large bowel (frequent passage of small fluid stools).
    • Causes of small bowel diarrhoea include increased fluid secretion, decreased absorption due to villi shortening, or increased mucosal permeability.

    Melaena and Haematochezia

    • Melaena refers to digested blood in stools, appearing black and tarry, originating from the upper GI tract.
    • Haematochezia is undigested, bright red blood in stools, originating from the lower GI tract.

    Dysphagia, Vomiting, and Regurgitation

    • Dysphagia is the difficulty in swallowing.
    • Vomiting involves the forceful expulsion of gastric contents through the mouth.
    • Regurgitation is the passive movement of food and fluid back from the oesophagus.

    Ill-Thrift

    • Describes weight loss or poor body condition, prevalent in production animals.

    Structure and Function of the Gastrointestinal Tract

    • The GI tract extends from the mouth to the anus, consisting of four layers: mucosa, submucosa, muscular layers, and serosa.
    • The mucosa comprises epithelium, lamina propria (connective tissue), and muscularis mucosae (muscle tissue).
    • Specialized cells in the stomach secrete HCl (chief cells) and pepsinogen (parietal cells).
    • Peyer’s patches in the ileum serve as immune sensors and are crucial for immune response.
    • Functions include digestion and absorption of nutrients, waste excretion, fluid and electrolyte balance, and serving as a barrier against environmental pathogens.

    Diagnosis of Gastrointestinal Tract Disease

    • Common clinical signs include inappetence, vomiting, diarrhoea, and weight loss.
    • Extra-intestinal diseases (renal, hepatic, endocrine) may present similar signs, requiring thorough physical exams, including oral and rectal examinations.
    • Haematology and serum biochemistry assess hydration, electrolyte balance, and pancreatic function but are often insufficient for specific diagnosis.
    • Serology and faecal samples are valuable for identifying infections, with imaging and tissue biopsies often needed for conclusive diagnoses.

    Postmortem Examination of the Gastrointestinal Tract

    • Full examination of the GI tract is essential during postmortem analysis; rapid autolysis post-death complicates sample collection.
    • If multiple animals are affected, prioritize sampling from recently deceased or sick individuals.
    • Common changes observed postmortem include haemoglobin imbibition (red discoloration), putrefaction (green), and pseudomelanosis (black).
    • Thorough examinations must differentiate postmortem changes from ante-mortem conditions such as bloat or necrosis.
    • Collect samples from various GI parts for histology; avoid scraping mucosal surfaces to preserve cellular integrity.

    Oral Cavity Examination

    • Requires incision near the mandible and disarticulation for thorough investigation; often neglected but vital for disease diagnosis.

    Congenital Anomalies

    • Cleft palate and cleft lip, often linked with other skeletal conditions, may result from teratogenic plants, drugs, or genetic factors.
    • Dentigerous cysts develop around teeth, common in sheep and brachycephalic dog breeds.
    • Enamel hypoplasia can arise from systemic disturbances affecting ameloblasts and is visible as irregularities in tooth enamel.

    Dental Issues

    • Attrition marks normal wear, while abnormal attrition occurs due to malocclusion, soft teeth, pain, or abrasive diets.
    • Dental plaque is a bacterial mass that can lead to gingivitis and periodontitis, potentially resulting in tooth loss and other complications.

    Inflammatory Diseases of the Oral Cavity

    • Feline indolent ulcers appear at mucocutaneous junctions, often immune-mediated; linking to allergies may aid in treatment.
    • Feline ulcerative stomatitis has a multifactorial etiology and is influenced by viral infections in older cats, disrupting oral microbiota balance.

    Key Oral Tumors

    • Oral squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is the most prevalent malignant tumor in cats, with quick metastasis potential.
    • Malignant melanomas are the most common oral tumors in dogs, often aggressive with a short survival time.
    • Various other tumors, including fibrosarcomas and lymphomas, also impact the oral cavity.

    Viral Vesicular Diseases

    • Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) is highly contagious among cloven-hoofed animals, presenting with vesicles that can lead to erosions and ulcers.
    • Other conditions, like vesicular stomatitis and swine vesicular disease, present similar lesions and must be differentiated from FMD.
    • Call MPI immediately if FMD is suspected due to the severe economic and health implications.### San Miquel Sea Lion Virus and Pigs
    • San Miquel sea lion virus is closely related to BVD virus and causes similar lesions in pigs.
    • Pigs should never consume marine mammal carcass material to prevent viral infection.

    Bovine Virus Diarrhoea - Mucosal Disease (BVD-MD)

    • BVD-MD is a significant viral disease affecting young cattle, caused by a pestivirus from the Flaviviridae family.
    • Symptoms include immunosuppression, embryonal death, mummification, stillbirths, premature births, and teratogenesis in calves.
    • Acute BVD results from a non-cytopathic virus, predominantly subclinical or causing mild symptoms.
    • Common clinical signs are lethargy, anorexia, mild oculonasal discharge, erosions in the mouth, and diarrhoea.
    • Infection in utero can lead to persistent infections, with calves often being runt or virus shedders.
    • Mucosal disease occurs in cattle aged 6-24 months, characterized by superinfection with a cytopathic virus in persistently infected animals, leading to fatal outcomes within 2 weeks.
    • Clinical signs of mucosal disease include severe lethargy, dehydration, diarrhoea, and nasal discharge with extensive oral erosions and ulcers.
    • Postmortem findings include lesions in the stomach, intestines, and skin, alongside general ill-thriftiness in PI animals.

    Malignant Catarrhal Fever (MCF)

    • MCF affects cattle and deer, occurring sporadically with two forms: one associated with wildebeests and the other with sheep (ovine herpesvirus 2).
    • Clinical signs include generalized lymphadenopathy, oral ulcers, acute enteritis, and exudative inflammation of the skin.
    • Pathological findings involve severe vasculitis, particularly in mucous membranes and organs like the brain and kidneys.

    Calf Ulcerative Stomatitis (CUS)

    • A new syndrome occurred in New Zealand calves in 2015, causing oral ulceration in calves aged 3-6 months.
    • Symptoms include ill thrift, oral ulceration, and diarrhoea, with morbidity rates from 0.5% to 100%.
    • Histological findings reveal inflammation in the intestinal crypts, while affected calves tested negative for BVD.

    Acorn Poisoning

    • Cattle consuming acorns or oak leaves can develop severe oral ulceration and nephrosis, leading to fatal outcomes.
    • Clinical signs include swollen, pale kidneys surrounded by haemorrhage and edema.

    Glossitis and Photosensitisation

    • Cattle with photosensitisation may develop erosions on the ventral midline of the tongue due to photodynamic reactions.

    Bluetongue

    • Bluetongue is a viral disease transmitted by Culicoides midges, affecting sheep primarily, with goats and cattle also susceptible.
    • The virus damages endothelial cells, causing microthrombi and ulceration in the oral cavity, and may lead to cyanosis of the tongue and mouth.
    • Clinical disease is often mild or inapparent in cattle; however, fetal malformations can occur due to maternal infection.

    Inflammation of the Large Intestine

    • Typhlitis refers to inflammation of the caecum, while colitis indicates inflammation of the colon, often accompanying acute enteritis.
    • Swine dysentery is characterized by primary colitis, with dysentery denoting blood and mucus in watery faeces.
    • Diarrhoea from typhlitis and colitis stems from impaired resorption of Na+ and Cl-, leading to water loss.

    Chronic Enteritis and Colitis

    • Chronic enterocolitis may follow acute enteritis or develop gradually due to persistent irritation from parasites or bacterial infections.
    • Stunted villi covered by cuboidal epithelium with fewer microvilli lead to maldigestion and absorption issues.
    • Increased inflammatory cells in the mucosa often result in atrophied villi adhering and fusing, causing loss of surface area.
    • The terms "atrophic enteritis" or "sprue" describe the condition where villi fusion affects function.

    Neonatal Diarrhoea

    • Calves, lambs, kids, and piglets frequently experience diarrhoea caused by various pathogens such as coronavirus, rotavirus, E. coli, Salmonella, and Cryptosporidium.
    • Nutritional and management factors can also contribute, especially with sudden dietary changes or insufficient colostral immunity.
    • Diagnosis often requires further testing due to similar clinical and postmortem findings among different causes of neonatal diarrhoea.

    Common Clinical Pathology Findings in Neonatal Diarrhoea

    • Erythrocytosis and increased total protein levels may occur; pre-renal azotaemia results from fluid loss leading to dehydration.
    • Metabolic acidosis (reduced pH and bicarbonate) and electrolytic imbalances due to secretory diarrhoea.
    • Inflammatory leukogram often shows neutrophilia, elevated fibrinogen, and potential negative energy balance.

    Common Postmortem Findings in Neonatal Diarrhoea

    • Dehydration signs include sunken eyes and tacky mucous membranes; faecal staining may be present around the perineum.
    • Small intestine typically appears dilated with watery, green-yellow contents; mucosa may show congestion.
    • In tube-fed animals, milk may be present in the rumen due to improper groove closure, potentially leading to rumenitis.

    Infectious Diseases Affecting the Intestines

    Viral Diseases

    • Rotavirus: Affects various mammals and birds, causing villus atrophy in newborns; diagnosed with ELISA from faeces.
    • Coronavirus: Causes severe villus atrophy; transmissible gastroenteritis in pigs can lead to high mortality rates.
    • Parvovirus: Impacts rapidly dividing cells, mainly affecting intestinal crypts; leads to severe diarrhoea and can cause cerebellar hypoplasia in fetuses.
    • Adenovirus: Causes enteritis in cattle, pigs, sheep, and horses; mostly subclinical in cattle, with diarrhoea observed primarily in young animals.

    Common Clinical Pathology Findings in Parvovirus Infection

    • Potential decreases in PCV, RBC, and overall protein levels; dehydration may initially increase RBC counts.
    • Electrolyte depletion typically results in decreased Na, K, and Cl levels; lymphopenia due to viral lysis of lymphocytes.
    • Transient neutropenia occurs from bone marrow infection, followed by neutrophilia during recovery.

    Sampling Considerations

    • Use fresh samples, as autolysis may obscure lesions; focal postmortem examinations can provide crucial insights into herd issues.
    • Immediate sampling of the intestine is essential to prevent deterioration of diagnostic quality within 15-30 minutes post-mortem.

    Pancreatic Structure and Function

    • The pancreas has dual functions: exocrine (digestion) and endocrine (hormonal regulation).
    • It secretes digestive enzymes into the small intestine, including lipase, proteases, and amylase.
    • Pancreatic secretions are alkaline due to bicarbonate, neutralizing stomach acid.
    • Conditions affecting the exocrine pancreas can lead to exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI) or pancreatitis.

    Serum Pancreatic Enzymes

    • Amylase:
      • Produced by pancreas, small intestine, and liver; elevated levels may indicate organ dysfunction.
      • Mild increases may occur with gastrointestinal or liver diseases.
    • Lipase:
      • Produced by various cells including pancreatic acinar cells; increases can indicate pancreatic damage.
      • Two testing methods: total lipase and pancreatic-specific lipase (PLI).
      • The DGGR method for total lipase is sensitive and specific for pancreatitis, generally correlating with PLI results.
    • Trypsin-Like Immunoreactivity (TLI):
      • Measures trypsinogen and trypsin in circulation; used less for diagnosing pancreatitis but is important for identifying EPI.

    Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency (EPI)

    • EPI results from inadequate enzyme production, leading to maldigestion.
    • Common signs include:
      • Weight loss despite increased appetite (polyphagia).
      • Poor hair coat due to protein deficiency.
      • Greasy, pale feces.
    • Diagnostic findings:
      • Normal amylase and lipase levels; decreased TLI is specific for EPI.
      • Potential cobalamin deficiency, especially in cats.

    Acute Pancreatic Necrosis / Pancreatitis

    • Terminology:
      • Acute pancreatic necrosis (APN) results from enzyme activation within the pancreas, leading to autodigestion.
      • Pancreatitis is the term used when inflammation is caused by infection or other factors.
    • Clinical Signs in Dogs:
      • Common signs include anorexia, vomiting, lethargy, dehydration, abdominal pain.
      • Severe cases may present with respiratory distress or disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC).
    • Clinical Signs in Cats:
      • Symptoms are vague, often lack vomiting or severe pain, may include weight loss and dehydration.
    • Diagnosis and Laboratory Findings:
      • Common clinical pathology shows inflammatory leukograms, increased amylase and lipase in dogs.
      • Serum may be lipaemic; hyperglycemia and hypocalcemia may also be present.

    Causes of Pancreatic Disorders

    • Increased serum amylase and lipase can result from:
      • Pancreatic damage (e.g., pancreatitis).
      • Duct blockage from tumors or inflammation.
      • Renal dysfunction affecting clearance.
      • Gastrointestinal diseases causing leakage from damaged epithelial cells.
    • Chronic inflammation may lead to EPI through pancreatic destruction.

    Other Causes of Pancreatic Inflammation

    • Zinc toxicity can result in acute pancreatic degeneration/necrosis.
    • Infections like Toxoplasma gondii associated with necrotizing pancreatitis in cats.

    Summary of Test Usage

    • Total lipase (DGGR method) is more cost-effective and faster for initial pancreatitis testing than PLI.
    • In ambiguous cases, further testing is recommended if inconsistent results are found.

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    This quiz covers the concepts of erosion and ulceration in the gastrointestinal tract, focusing on the differences between the two conditions and their implications. It also addresses diarrhea classification, including small and large bowel diarrhea. Test your knowledge on these essential gastrointestinal topics!

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