Cecile Clercx - Academia.edu (original) (raw)

Papers by Cecile Clercx

Research paper thumbnail of Comparison of the value of measurement of serum galactomannan and Aspergillus-specific antibodies in the diagnosis of canine sino-nasal aspergillosis

Veterinary Microbiology, 2009

Serology is currently used for the diagnosis of canine sino-nasal aspergillosis (SNA). However, t... more Serology is currently used for the diagnosis of canine sino-nasal aspergillosis (SNA). However, the accuracy of serological testing using commercially available, standardized purified antigen preparations of Aspergillus (CAPurAspAg) has only been poorly documented.The aim of the present study was to assess the diagnostic value of an agar-gel double immunodiffusion (AGDD) test and an anti-Aspergillus IgG ELISA, using CAPurAspAg and the

Research paper thumbnail of Collection of exhaled breath condensate and analysis of hydrogen peroxide as a potential marker of lower airway inflammation in cats

Veterinary journal (London, England : 1997), 2005

The objective of this study was to describe a standardised and non-invasive method for exhaled br... more The objective of this study was to describe a standardised and non-invasive method for exhaled breath condensate (EBC) collection in cats and to test whether determination of hydrogen peroxide (H(2)O(2)) in EBC might be used as marker of lower airway inflammation. The technique of barometric whole body plethysmography for cats was combined with a system to condense the effluent air from the plethysmograph, allowing simultaneous EBC collection and respiratory pattern measurement. H(2)O(2) was determined spectrophotometrically. Eighteen experimental cats were used to investigate the impact on EBC volume and EBC H(2)O(2) of plethysmograph ventilation rate, collection duration, sample stability, within-day and day-to-day variability. After determination of a standardised EBC collection procedure, correlation analyses between EBC H(2)O(2) and bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) cytology of healthy and allergen-challenged Ascaris suum (AS)-sensitised cats were performed. A significant and positi...

Research paper thumbnail of Early activation of cardiac and renal endothelin systems in experimental heart failure

American journal of physiology. Heart and circulatory physiology, 2003

We investigated the time course of the expression of cardiac and renal endothelin systems in tach... more We investigated the time course of the expression of cardiac and renal endothelin systems in tachycardia-induced heart failure in dogs. Eleven beagles underwent rapid pacing at a progressively increased rate over a period of 5 wk, with a weekly clinical examination, echocardiography, measurement of circulating and urinary endothelin-1 (ET-1), and myocardial and renal tissue biopsies. Real-time quantitative PCR was used for determinations of tissue prepro-ET-1 (ppET-1), ET-1-converting enzyme (ECE-1), and ETA and ETB receptor mRNA. Cardiac and renal tissue ET-1 contents were evaluated by immunostaining and measured by radioimmunoassay at autopsy. Rapid pacing caused a progressive increase in end-systolic and end-diastolic ventricular volumes (P < 0.05) from week 2 together with a decrease in ejection fraction and in mean velocity of circumferential shortening (P < 0.05) from week 1. These changes were tightly correlated to myocardial ppET-1 and renal ETA receptor mRNA and less ...

Research paper thumbnail of Non-invasive assessment of growth, gender and time of day related changes of respiratory pattern in healthy cats by use of barometric whole body plethysmography

The Veterinary Journal, 2006

The objective of this study was to establish a reference base for respiratory variables (respirat... more The objective of this study was to establish a reference base for respiratory variables (respiratory rate [R R ], inspiratory and expiratory time [T i and T e ], peak inspiratory and expiratory pseudoflow [PIF and PEF], tidal volume [V T ], minute ventilation [V E ] and enhanced pause [Penh]) of healthy cats by use of barometric whole body plethysmography (BWBP). Eighteen healthy European cats (10 male, 8 female) were studied from the age of 3 to 13 months in order to assess growth-and gender-related changes of BWBP variables. Chest radiographs and bronchoalveolar lavage cytology were performed to confirm pulmonary health status. Diurnal changes were investigated every 2 h over a period of 24 h when the cats were adult.

Research paper thumbnail of Functional, inflammatory and morphological characterisation of a cat model of allergic airway inflammation

The Veterinary Journal, 2007

The aims of this study were to characterise a model of feline allergic airway inflammation and to... more The aims of this study were to characterise a model of feline allergic airway inflammation and to test through a longitudinal investigation whether five repeated allergen exposures would lead to signs of airway remodelling that would be detectable in vivo. Eight healthy control cats and eight cats sensitised with Ascaris suum allergens were investigated. Barometric whole body plethysmography (BWBP) was used for the assessment of respiratory variables and airway responsiveness (AR). Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) was sampled for cytology and determination of F 2 -isoprostane concentration and matrix metalloproteinase type 9 (MMP-9) activity. Thoracic radiography and bronchoscopy scores were also established. Cats were investigated prior to sensitisation and after inhalation of placebo or allergen challenge 1.

Research paper thumbnail of Evaluation of respiratory function by barometric whole-body plethysmography in healthy dogs

The Veterinary Journal, 2006

The objective of the present study was to assess the validity of barometric whole-body plethysmog... more The objective of the present study was to assess the validity of barometric whole-body plethysmography (BWBP), to establish reference values, and to standardise a bronchoprovocative test to investigate airway responsiveness using BWBP in healthy dogs. BWBP measurements were obtained from six healthy beagle dogs using different protocols: (1) during three consecutive periods (3.5 min each) in two morning and two evening sessions; (2) before and after administration of two protocols of sedation; (3) before and after nebulisation of saline and increasing concentrations of carbachol and histamine both in conscious dogs and in dogs under both protocols of sedation. Enhanced pause (PENH) was used as index of bronchoconstriction. Basal BWBP measurements were also obtained in 22 healthy dogs of different breeds, age and weight.

Research paper thumbnail of Quantitative Bacterial Cultures and Cytological Examination of Bronchoalveolar Lavage Specimens in Dogs

Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 2000

Cytology and quantitative bacterial cultures of lower respiratory tract secretions are widely use... more Cytology and quantitative bacterial cultures of lower respiratory tract secretions are widely used in human medicine to differentiate airway infection from simple bacterial colonization. A retrospective study was conducted to determine the usefulness of quantitative aerobic cultures and Gram stain intracellular bacteria counts from bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) specimens in dogs in diagnosing lower respiratory tract infection (LRTI) and to determine whether chronic bronchitis is associated with marked bacterial growth in dogs. The threshold determined to define clinically relevant bacterial growth was 1.7 ϫ 10 3 colony-forming units per milliliter of BAL fluid. We used this threshold and found that diagnostic sensitivity and specificity were 86% and 100%, respectively. With a threshold for infection of Ͼ2 intracellular bacteria observed in any of 50 fields, microscopic examination of Gram stain BAL preparations had a sensitivity of 71% and a specificity of 97% in establishing LRTI. There was a high correlation between bacterial morphology on BAL Gram stain and bacterial cultures. Combining the results of intracellular bacteria counts from the BAL Gram stain with those from the quantitative cultures, the sensitivity in diagnosing LRTI was 87% and the specificity was 97%. BAL quantitative cultures as well as quantitating intracellular bacteria on Gram stain BAL cytology were revealed to be useful in identifying LRTI in dogs. Chronic bronchitis does not appear to be associated with marked bacterial growth in dogs.

Research paper thumbnail of Closantel intoxication in a dog

Veterinary and human toxicology

A case of overdosage with closantel, a salicynalide derivative, in a dog is described. The dog re... more A case of overdosage with closantel, a salicynalide derivative, in a dog is described. The dog received 6 times the recommended dosage. Closantel induced optic neuritis, retinal degeneration, partial deafness, hepatotoxicosis and myopathy. Only the blindness was irreversible. The therapy included albumin administration to reduce the acute toxicity of closantel.

Research paper thumbnail of Effects of age and allergen-induced airway inflammation in cats: Radiographic and cytologic correlation

The Veterinary Journal, 2007

Thoracic radiography is an important diagnostic tool for feline respiratory medicine. The aim of ... more Thoracic radiography is an important diagnostic tool for feline respiratory medicine. The aim of this study was (1) to assess agerelated changes of thoracic radiographic views in healthy young cats and (2) to test if experimentally-induced bronchial inflammation by inhaling Ascaris suum (AS) allergens leads to radiographic changes after single or repeated exposures. Healthy cats (n = 15-30) aged between 6 and 30 months were evaluated. Eight healthy cats and eight AS-sensitised cats, respectively, inhaled sterile saline or allergen. Radiographs were taken 24 h before, and 6, 24 and 48 h after the challenge. Bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) was performed after the last radiographic examination. AS-sensitised cats underwent three further allergen challenges at 3-month intervals. The radiographic evaluation was based on a scoring system considering bronchial, interstitial and alveolar patterns. A significant age-related increase in interstitial and total radiographic score was detected in healthy cats older than 18 months and in healthy cats older than 24 months. Whilst saline inhalation did not affect radiographic scores, a single AS challenge induced significant changes of all scores within 6-24 h. A significant positive correlation between radiographic scores and BAL neutrophils and eosinophils was found. Repeated AS challenges did not induce irreversible changes in radiographic scores.

Research paper thumbnail of Whole blood and tissue fungal DNA quantification in the diagnosis of canine sino-nasal aspergillosis

Veterinary microbiology, 2008

Various combinations of tests are used to confirm the diagnosis of canine sino-nasal aspergillosi... more Various combinations of tests are used to confirm the diagnosis of canine sino-nasal aspergillosis (SNA) because false-positive and false-negative results can occur with each test. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate whether detection of fungal DNA in blood and nasal tissue samples was of value in the clinical diagnosis of this disease. Four groups were included in the study (dogs with SNA, lymphoplasmacytic rhinitis or nasal neoplasia, and control animals). Real-time PCR assays detecting DNA from all Penicillium and Aspergillus species (PenAsp assay) or species-specific DNA from A. fumigatus, A. terreus, A. flavus and A. niger were applied to whole blood and nasal tissue samples. Results obtained by PCR were compared between the groups. Sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values (PPV and NPV) for fungal DNA detection were compared with those for alternative diagnostic procedures including histopathology, serology and fungal culture. Significantly...

Research paper thumbnail of Quantification of mRNA encoding cytokines and chemokines in nasal biopsies from dogs with sino-nasal aspergillosis

Veterinary microbiology, Jan 31, 2006

Canine sino-nasal aspergillosis is usually caused by Aspergillus fumigatus and is similar to huma... more Canine sino-nasal aspergillosis is usually caused by Aspergillus fumigatus and is similar to human chronic erosive non-invasive fungal sinusitis. The pathogenesis of the disease is poorly understood. We investigated the nature of the local immune response mounted in canine sino-nasal aspergillosis. Quantitative RT-PCR was carried out on RNA isolated from nasal biopsies from diseased and control dogs, using specific assays designed to amplify mRNA encoding a panel of cytokines and chemokines. Canine sino-nasal aspergillosis was associated with significantly increased expression of mRNA encoding MCP-1, -2, -3 and -4, IL-8, IL-10, IL-18 and TNF-alpha relative to controls (P<0.01) but there was no difference between groups with respect to IL-4, IL-5, IL-6, IL-12, TGF-beta, and eotaxin-2 and -3. The up-regulation of proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines related to the influx of phagocytic cells might account for the localisation of this infection to the upper respiratory tract. The...

Research paper thumbnail of Assessment of Toll-like receptor 2, 4 and 9 SNP genotypes in canine sino-nasal aspergillosis

BMC veterinary research, 2014

The exact aetiology of canine sino-nasal aspergillosis (SNA) is unknown. In man, dysfunction in i... more The exact aetiology of canine sino-nasal aspergillosis (SNA) is unknown. In man, dysfunction in innate immunity, particularly in the function of pattern recognition receptors, is implicated in the pathogenesis of inflammatory sino-nasal disease and in fungal diseases. Associations between single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in Toll-like receptors (TLRs) and these diseases have been identified. Similarly, in dogs SNPs in genes encoding TLRs may be important in the pathogenesis of SNA. The aims of the present study were (1) to identify the presence of non-synonymous SNPs in the coding regions of the TLR2, 4 and 9 genes in dogs suffering from SNA, and (2) to investigate the SNP genotypes in dogs with SNA compared with a control population. Direct sequencing of nine dogs of various breeds with SNA revealed two non-synonymous SNPs in the coding region of TLR2, eight in TLR4 and four in TLR9. These non-synonymous SNPs were further evaluated in a case-control study of affected Golden Re...

Research paper thumbnail of PROBABLE TRIGEMINAL NERVE SCHWANNOMA IN A DOG

Veterinary Radiology <html_ent glyph="@amp;" ascii="&"/> Ultrasound, 1998

ABSTRACT A 7-year-old male Husky dog developed atrophy of the right masseter muscle and pruritus ... more ABSTRACT A 7-year-old male Husky dog developed atrophy of the right masseter muscle and pruritus of the right side of the face. A myogenic origin was excluded using muscular biopsy. Electrophysiologically, there was involvement of the motor and sensory fibers of the trigeminal nerve, suggesting a lesion located between the brainstem and the trigeminal ganglion. On MRI examination, a nodular mass was detected in the right caudal fossa. This mass was characterized by intense enhancement after injection of contrast medium. Because of the progressive clinical signs, electrophysiology, and MRI results, a presumptive diagnosis of a trigeminal nerve schwannoma was made. The animal&#39;s condition improved slightly with corticosteroids. The dog underwent euthanasia 3 months after initial presentation. Necropsy was not performed.

Research paper thumbnail of Real-time RT-PCR quantification of mRNA encoding cytokines and chemokines in histologically normal canine nasal, bronchial and pulmonary tissue

Veterinary Immunology and Immunopathology, 2005

Cytokines and chemokines are likely to be involved in the pathogenesis of inflammatory diseases o... more Cytokines and chemokines are likely to be involved in the pathogenesis of inflammatory diseases of the canine respiratory tract. The roles and relative amounts of these molecules have not yet been defined in the respiratory mucosa of normal dogs or dogs with naturally acquired respiratory inflammation. In the present study, real-time reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) assays were employed to quantify messenger RNA (mRNA) encoding the chemokines monocyte chemotactic protein (MCP)-2, eotaxin-2 and eotaxin-3, and the cytokines interleukin-4 (IL-4), IL-5, IL-6, IL-10, IL-12p40, IL-18, interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma), tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) and transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-beta) in normal nasal, bronchial and pulmonary tissues from puppies (n = 4) and from adult dogs (n = 7). There was no significant difference in the expression of any transcript between puppies and adult dogs at any of the anatomical sites examined. The expression of mRNA encoding eotaxin-2 and eotaxin-3 increased significantly with progression from the nasal mucosa to pulmonary parenchyma but expression of MCP-2 mRNA did not show this trend. At all levels of the respiratory mucosa, the most abundant transcripts were those encoding IL-18 and TGF-beta. Transcripts encoding IL-6, IL-10, IL-12 and TNF-alpha were approximately ten-fold less abundant, and IL-4, IL-5 and IFN-gamma were the least abundant templates. There was significantly different amount of mRNA encoding IL-5, IL-18 and TNF-alpha between particular anatomical levels of the respiratory mucosa while the mRNA expression of the other cytokines was similar at all anatomical sites. The results of the present study will enable comparisons to be made with results obtained from similar samples obtained from dogs with nasal, bronchial or pulmonary diseases.

Research paper thumbnail of Toll- and NOD-like receptor mRNA expression in canine sino-nasal aspergillosis and idiopathic lymphoplasmacytic rhinitis

Veterinary Immunology and Immunopathology, 2012

... Clercx a ,; D. Peeters a. a Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Division of Companion... more ... Clercx a ,; D. Peeters a. a Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Division of Companion Animal Internal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University ofLiège, Sart Tilman, 4000 Liège, Belgium; b School of Veterinary ...

Research paper thumbnail of Canine Eosinophilic Bronchopneumopathy

Veterinary Clinics of North America: Small Animal Practice, 2007

Eosinophilic bronchopneumopathy (EBP) is a disease characterized by eosinophilic infiltration of ... more Eosinophilic bronchopneumopathy (EBP) is a disease characterized by eosinophilic infiltration of the lung and bronchial mucosa, as demonstrated by examination of bronchoalveolar lavage fluid cytologic preparations or histologic examination of the bronchial mucosa. Although the precise cause of EBP is unknown, a hypersensitivity to aeroallergens is suspected. The diagnosis relies on typical history and clinical signs, demonstration of bronchopulmonary eosinophilia by cytology or histopathologic examination, and exclusion of known causes of lower airway eosinophilia. Most dogs display an excellent response to oral corticosteroid therapy; however, side effects of this treatment can be limiting. New therapeutic approaches are being studied, including the use of aerosol therapy, cyclosporine, or drugs interfering with T helper 2 immune response.

Research paper thumbnail of Update on Canine Sinonasal Aspergillosis

Veterinary Clinics of North America: Small Animal Practice, 2007

Sinonasal aspergillosis is a frequent cause of nasal discharge that occurs in otherwise healthy, ... more Sinonasal aspergillosis is a frequent cause of nasal discharge that occurs in otherwise healthy, young to middle-aged dogs. A local immune dysfunction is suspected in affected animals, and the role of increased interleukin-10 mRNA expression in the nasal mucosa of affected dogs is currently under investigation. Despite recent advances in imaging techniques, the &amp;amp;amp;amp;quot;gold standard&amp;amp;amp;amp;quot; for diagnosing the disease is direct visualization of fungal plaques during endoscopy or observation of fungal elements on cytology or histopathologic examination. Treatment can be challenging; however, the use of topical enilconazole or clotrimazole through noninvasive techniques has increased the success of treatment and decreased the morbidity and duration of hospitalization.

Research paper thumbnail of Primary ciliary dyskinesia and situs inversus in a young dog

Veterinary Record, 2008

... Archives of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine 101, 95-99. ↵: Lohse CL,; Selcer R. R &; Su... more ... Archives of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine 101, 95-99. ↵: Lohse CL,; Selcer R. R &; Suter PF. (1976) Hepatoencephalopathy associated with situs inversus of abdominal organs and vascular anomalies in a dog. ... Sign up for job alerts. ...

Research paper thumbnail of A pilot study comparing the antispasmodic effects of inhaled salmeterol, salbutamol and ipratropium bromide using different aerosol devices on muscarinic bronchoconstriction in healthy cats

The Veterinary Journal, 2009

This study compared the duration and magnitude of the antispasmodic effects of salmeterol (SLM), ... more This study compared the duration and magnitude of the antispasmodic effects of salmeterol (SLM), salbutamol (SAL), ipratropium bromide (IB) and the combination of SAL and IB (SAL/IB) against carbachol-induced bronchoconstriction in healthy cats, and investigated the gain in efficacy using a two or fourfold increase in drug dosages. The drug regimens used were: (1) SLM 25 microg, SAL 100 microg, IB 20 microg and SAL/IB 100 microg/20 microg for bronchodilators delivered by a metered-dose inhaler (MDI); (2) SAL 3.75 mg and IB 62.5 microg for nebulised (NEB) medications. To monitor the bronchodilator effect, airway responsiveness was assessed at different time points using barometric whole-body plethysmography and calculation of the concentration of inhaled carbachol inducing a 300% increase of baseline Penh (enhanced pause), an estimator of airflow limitation. Maximum C-Penh300 was recorded 15 min after NEB SAL, IB MDI, NEB IB and 1h after SAL MDI and 4h after SLM MDI, respectively. C-Penh300 was significantly different from control values (without treatment) up to 24h for SLM MDI, 8h for IB MDI and 4h for other drugs. In terms of efficacy, SAL/IB MDI showed a synergistic antispasmodic effect at 15 min, 4h and 8h after administration. A fourfold increase of the initial dose of IB MDI and NEB IB significantly increased C-Penh300. Despite a fourfold dose increase, SLM displayed the weakest degree of bronchoprotection compared to other bronchodilators. The study provides evidence that inhaled bronchodilators are efficient at preventing muscarinic-induced bronchospasm in healthy cats and that SAL and IB appear to be short-acting bronchodilators in contrast to SLM.

Research paper thumbnail of Description of original endoscopic findings and respiratory functional assessment using barometric whole-body plethysmography in dogs suffering from brachycephalic airway obstruction syndrome

The Veterinary Journal, 2010

The clinical features of brachycephalic airway obstructive disease in 11 brachycephalic dogs are ... more The clinical features of brachycephalic airway obstructive disease in 11 brachycephalic dogs are described in this study. The respiratory strategy was assessed before (n = 11) and after (n = 6) surgery using barometric whole-body plethysmography (BWBP), with the relationship between BWBP variables and the severity of the clinical signs assessed by the use of a respiratory score based on clinical, radiographic and endoscopic findings.

Research paper thumbnail of Comparison of the value of measurement of serum galactomannan and Aspergillus-specific antibodies in the diagnosis of canine sino-nasal aspergillosis

Veterinary Microbiology, 2009

Serology is currently used for the diagnosis of canine sino-nasal aspergillosis (SNA). However, t... more Serology is currently used for the diagnosis of canine sino-nasal aspergillosis (SNA). However, the accuracy of serological testing using commercially available, standardized purified antigen preparations of Aspergillus (CAPurAspAg) has only been poorly documented.The aim of the present study was to assess the diagnostic value of an agar-gel double immunodiffusion (AGDD) test and an anti-Aspergillus IgG ELISA, using CAPurAspAg and the

Research paper thumbnail of Collection of exhaled breath condensate and analysis of hydrogen peroxide as a potential marker of lower airway inflammation in cats

Veterinary journal (London, England : 1997), 2005

The objective of this study was to describe a standardised and non-invasive method for exhaled br... more The objective of this study was to describe a standardised and non-invasive method for exhaled breath condensate (EBC) collection in cats and to test whether determination of hydrogen peroxide (H(2)O(2)) in EBC might be used as marker of lower airway inflammation. The technique of barometric whole body plethysmography for cats was combined with a system to condense the effluent air from the plethysmograph, allowing simultaneous EBC collection and respiratory pattern measurement. H(2)O(2) was determined spectrophotometrically. Eighteen experimental cats were used to investigate the impact on EBC volume and EBC H(2)O(2) of plethysmograph ventilation rate, collection duration, sample stability, within-day and day-to-day variability. After determination of a standardised EBC collection procedure, correlation analyses between EBC H(2)O(2) and bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) cytology of healthy and allergen-challenged Ascaris suum (AS)-sensitised cats were performed. A significant and positi...

Research paper thumbnail of Early activation of cardiac and renal endothelin systems in experimental heart failure

American journal of physiology. Heart and circulatory physiology, 2003

We investigated the time course of the expression of cardiac and renal endothelin systems in tach... more We investigated the time course of the expression of cardiac and renal endothelin systems in tachycardia-induced heart failure in dogs. Eleven beagles underwent rapid pacing at a progressively increased rate over a period of 5 wk, with a weekly clinical examination, echocardiography, measurement of circulating and urinary endothelin-1 (ET-1), and myocardial and renal tissue biopsies. Real-time quantitative PCR was used for determinations of tissue prepro-ET-1 (ppET-1), ET-1-converting enzyme (ECE-1), and ETA and ETB receptor mRNA. Cardiac and renal tissue ET-1 contents were evaluated by immunostaining and measured by radioimmunoassay at autopsy. Rapid pacing caused a progressive increase in end-systolic and end-diastolic ventricular volumes (P < 0.05) from week 2 together with a decrease in ejection fraction and in mean velocity of circumferential shortening (P < 0.05) from week 1. These changes were tightly correlated to myocardial ppET-1 and renal ETA receptor mRNA and less ...

Research paper thumbnail of Non-invasive assessment of growth, gender and time of day related changes of respiratory pattern in healthy cats by use of barometric whole body plethysmography

The Veterinary Journal, 2006

The objective of this study was to establish a reference base for respiratory variables (respirat... more The objective of this study was to establish a reference base for respiratory variables (respiratory rate [R R ], inspiratory and expiratory time [T i and T e ], peak inspiratory and expiratory pseudoflow [PIF and PEF], tidal volume [V T ], minute ventilation [V E ] and enhanced pause [Penh]) of healthy cats by use of barometric whole body plethysmography (BWBP). Eighteen healthy European cats (10 male, 8 female) were studied from the age of 3 to 13 months in order to assess growth-and gender-related changes of BWBP variables. Chest radiographs and bronchoalveolar lavage cytology were performed to confirm pulmonary health status. Diurnal changes were investigated every 2 h over a period of 24 h when the cats were adult.

Research paper thumbnail of Functional, inflammatory and morphological characterisation of a cat model of allergic airway inflammation

The Veterinary Journal, 2007

The aims of this study were to characterise a model of feline allergic airway inflammation and to... more The aims of this study were to characterise a model of feline allergic airway inflammation and to test through a longitudinal investigation whether five repeated allergen exposures would lead to signs of airway remodelling that would be detectable in vivo. Eight healthy control cats and eight cats sensitised with Ascaris suum allergens were investigated. Barometric whole body plethysmography (BWBP) was used for the assessment of respiratory variables and airway responsiveness (AR). Bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) was sampled for cytology and determination of F 2 -isoprostane concentration and matrix metalloproteinase type 9 (MMP-9) activity. Thoracic radiography and bronchoscopy scores were also established. Cats were investigated prior to sensitisation and after inhalation of placebo or allergen challenge 1.

Research paper thumbnail of Evaluation of respiratory function by barometric whole-body plethysmography in healthy dogs

The Veterinary Journal, 2006

The objective of the present study was to assess the validity of barometric whole-body plethysmog... more The objective of the present study was to assess the validity of barometric whole-body plethysmography (BWBP), to establish reference values, and to standardise a bronchoprovocative test to investigate airway responsiveness using BWBP in healthy dogs. BWBP measurements were obtained from six healthy beagle dogs using different protocols: (1) during three consecutive periods (3.5 min each) in two morning and two evening sessions; (2) before and after administration of two protocols of sedation; (3) before and after nebulisation of saline and increasing concentrations of carbachol and histamine both in conscious dogs and in dogs under both protocols of sedation. Enhanced pause (PENH) was used as index of bronchoconstriction. Basal BWBP measurements were also obtained in 22 healthy dogs of different breeds, age and weight.

Research paper thumbnail of Quantitative Bacterial Cultures and Cytological Examination of Bronchoalveolar Lavage Specimens in Dogs

Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine, 2000

Cytology and quantitative bacterial cultures of lower respiratory tract secretions are widely use... more Cytology and quantitative bacterial cultures of lower respiratory tract secretions are widely used in human medicine to differentiate airway infection from simple bacterial colonization. A retrospective study was conducted to determine the usefulness of quantitative aerobic cultures and Gram stain intracellular bacteria counts from bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) specimens in dogs in diagnosing lower respiratory tract infection (LRTI) and to determine whether chronic bronchitis is associated with marked bacterial growth in dogs. The threshold determined to define clinically relevant bacterial growth was 1.7 ϫ 10 3 colony-forming units per milliliter of BAL fluid. We used this threshold and found that diagnostic sensitivity and specificity were 86% and 100%, respectively. With a threshold for infection of Ͼ2 intracellular bacteria observed in any of 50 fields, microscopic examination of Gram stain BAL preparations had a sensitivity of 71% and a specificity of 97% in establishing LRTI. There was a high correlation between bacterial morphology on BAL Gram stain and bacterial cultures. Combining the results of intracellular bacteria counts from the BAL Gram stain with those from the quantitative cultures, the sensitivity in diagnosing LRTI was 87% and the specificity was 97%. BAL quantitative cultures as well as quantitating intracellular bacteria on Gram stain BAL cytology were revealed to be useful in identifying LRTI in dogs. Chronic bronchitis does not appear to be associated with marked bacterial growth in dogs.

Research paper thumbnail of Closantel intoxication in a dog

Veterinary and human toxicology

A case of overdosage with closantel, a salicynalide derivative, in a dog is described. The dog re... more A case of overdosage with closantel, a salicynalide derivative, in a dog is described. The dog received 6 times the recommended dosage. Closantel induced optic neuritis, retinal degeneration, partial deafness, hepatotoxicosis and myopathy. Only the blindness was irreversible. The therapy included albumin administration to reduce the acute toxicity of closantel.

Research paper thumbnail of Effects of age and allergen-induced airway inflammation in cats: Radiographic and cytologic correlation

The Veterinary Journal, 2007

Thoracic radiography is an important diagnostic tool for feline respiratory medicine. The aim of ... more Thoracic radiography is an important diagnostic tool for feline respiratory medicine. The aim of this study was (1) to assess agerelated changes of thoracic radiographic views in healthy young cats and (2) to test if experimentally-induced bronchial inflammation by inhaling Ascaris suum (AS) allergens leads to radiographic changes after single or repeated exposures. Healthy cats (n = 15-30) aged between 6 and 30 months were evaluated. Eight healthy cats and eight AS-sensitised cats, respectively, inhaled sterile saline or allergen. Radiographs were taken 24 h before, and 6, 24 and 48 h after the challenge. Bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) was performed after the last radiographic examination. AS-sensitised cats underwent three further allergen challenges at 3-month intervals. The radiographic evaluation was based on a scoring system considering bronchial, interstitial and alveolar patterns. A significant age-related increase in interstitial and total radiographic score was detected in healthy cats older than 18 months and in healthy cats older than 24 months. Whilst saline inhalation did not affect radiographic scores, a single AS challenge induced significant changes of all scores within 6-24 h. A significant positive correlation between radiographic scores and BAL neutrophils and eosinophils was found. Repeated AS challenges did not induce irreversible changes in radiographic scores.

Research paper thumbnail of Whole blood and tissue fungal DNA quantification in the diagnosis of canine sino-nasal aspergillosis

Veterinary microbiology, 2008

Various combinations of tests are used to confirm the diagnosis of canine sino-nasal aspergillosi... more Various combinations of tests are used to confirm the diagnosis of canine sino-nasal aspergillosis (SNA) because false-positive and false-negative results can occur with each test. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate whether detection of fungal DNA in blood and nasal tissue samples was of value in the clinical diagnosis of this disease. Four groups were included in the study (dogs with SNA, lymphoplasmacytic rhinitis or nasal neoplasia, and control animals). Real-time PCR assays detecting DNA from all Penicillium and Aspergillus species (PenAsp assay) or species-specific DNA from A. fumigatus, A. terreus, A. flavus and A. niger were applied to whole blood and nasal tissue samples. Results obtained by PCR were compared between the groups. Sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values (PPV and NPV) for fungal DNA detection were compared with those for alternative diagnostic procedures including histopathology, serology and fungal culture. Significantly...

Research paper thumbnail of Quantification of mRNA encoding cytokines and chemokines in nasal biopsies from dogs with sino-nasal aspergillosis

Veterinary microbiology, Jan 31, 2006

Canine sino-nasal aspergillosis is usually caused by Aspergillus fumigatus and is similar to huma... more Canine sino-nasal aspergillosis is usually caused by Aspergillus fumigatus and is similar to human chronic erosive non-invasive fungal sinusitis. The pathogenesis of the disease is poorly understood. We investigated the nature of the local immune response mounted in canine sino-nasal aspergillosis. Quantitative RT-PCR was carried out on RNA isolated from nasal biopsies from diseased and control dogs, using specific assays designed to amplify mRNA encoding a panel of cytokines and chemokines. Canine sino-nasal aspergillosis was associated with significantly increased expression of mRNA encoding MCP-1, -2, -3 and -4, IL-8, IL-10, IL-18 and TNF-alpha relative to controls (P<0.01) but there was no difference between groups with respect to IL-4, IL-5, IL-6, IL-12, TGF-beta, and eotaxin-2 and -3. The up-regulation of proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines related to the influx of phagocytic cells might account for the localisation of this infection to the upper respiratory tract. The...

Research paper thumbnail of Assessment of Toll-like receptor 2, 4 and 9 SNP genotypes in canine sino-nasal aspergillosis

BMC veterinary research, 2014

The exact aetiology of canine sino-nasal aspergillosis (SNA) is unknown. In man, dysfunction in i... more The exact aetiology of canine sino-nasal aspergillosis (SNA) is unknown. In man, dysfunction in innate immunity, particularly in the function of pattern recognition receptors, is implicated in the pathogenesis of inflammatory sino-nasal disease and in fungal diseases. Associations between single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in Toll-like receptors (TLRs) and these diseases have been identified. Similarly, in dogs SNPs in genes encoding TLRs may be important in the pathogenesis of SNA. The aims of the present study were (1) to identify the presence of non-synonymous SNPs in the coding regions of the TLR2, 4 and 9 genes in dogs suffering from SNA, and (2) to investigate the SNP genotypes in dogs with SNA compared with a control population. Direct sequencing of nine dogs of various breeds with SNA revealed two non-synonymous SNPs in the coding region of TLR2, eight in TLR4 and four in TLR9. These non-synonymous SNPs were further evaluated in a case-control study of affected Golden Re...

Research paper thumbnail of PROBABLE TRIGEMINAL NERVE SCHWANNOMA IN A DOG

Veterinary Radiology <html_ent glyph="@amp;" ascii="&"/> Ultrasound, 1998

ABSTRACT A 7-year-old male Husky dog developed atrophy of the right masseter muscle and pruritus ... more ABSTRACT A 7-year-old male Husky dog developed atrophy of the right masseter muscle and pruritus of the right side of the face. A myogenic origin was excluded using muscular biopsy. Electrophysiologically, there was involvement of the motor and sensory fibers of the trigeminal nerve, suggesting a lesion located between the brainstem and the trigeminal ganglion. On MRI examination, a nodular mass was detected in the right caudal fossa. This mass was characterized by intense enhancement after injection of contrast medium. Because of the progressive clinical signs, electrophysiology, and MRI results, a presumptive diagnosis of a trigeminal nerve schwannoma was made. The animal&#39;s condition improved slightly with corticosteroids. The dog underwent euthanasia 3 months after initial presentation. Necropsy was not performed.

Research paper thumbnail of Real-time RT-PCR quantification of mRNA encoding cytokines and chemokines in histologically normal canine nasal, bronchial and pulmonary tissue

Veterinary Immunology and Immunopathology, 2005

Cytokines and chemokines are likely to be involved in the pathogenesis of inflammatory diseases o... more Cytokines and chemokines are likely to be involved in the pathogenesis of inflammatory diseases of the canine respiratory tract. The roles and relative amounts of these molecules have not yet been defined in the respiratory mucosa of normal dogs or dogs with naturally acquired respiratory inflammation. In the present study, real-time reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) assays were employed to quantify messenger RNA (mRNA) encoding the chemokines monocyte chemotactic protein (MCP)-2, eotaxin-2 and eotaxin-3, and the cytokines interleukin-4 (IL-4), IL-5, IL-6, IL-10, IL-12p40, IL-18, interferon-gamma (IFN-gamma), tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha) and transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-beta) in normal nasal, bronchial and pulmonary tissues from puppies (n = 4) and from adult dogs (n = 7). There was no significant difference in the expression of any transcript between puppies and adult dogs at any of the anatomical sites examined. The expression of mRNA encoding eotaxin-2 and eotaxin-3 increased significantly with progression from the nasal mucosa to pulmonary parenchyma but expression of MCP-2 mRNA did not show this trend. At all levels of the respiratory mucosa, the most abundant transcripts were those encoding IL-18 and TGF-beta. Transcripts encoding IL-6, IL-10, IL-12 and TNF-alpha were approximately ten-fold less abundant, and IL-4, IL-5 and IFN-gamma were the least abundant templates. There was significantly different amount of mRNA encoding IL-5, IL-18 and TNF-alpha between particular anatomical levels of the respiratory mucosa while the mRNA expression of the other cytokines was similar at all anatomical sites. The results of the present study will enable comparisons to be made with results obtained from similar samples obtained from dogs with nasal, bronchial or pulmonary diseases.

Research paper thumbnail of Toll- and NOD-like receptor mRNA expression in canine sino-nasal aspergillosis and idiopathic lymphoplasmacytic rhinitis

Veterinary Immunology and Immunopathology, 2012

... Clercx a ,; D. Peeters a. a Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Division of Companion... more ... Clercx a ,; D. Peeters a. a Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Division of Companion Animal Internal Medicine, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University ofLiège, Sart Tilman, 4000 Liège, Belgium; b School of Veterinary ...

Research paper thumbnail of Canine Eosinophilic Bronchopneumopathy

Veterinary Clinics of North America: Small Animal Practice, 2007

Eosinophilic bronchopneumopathy (EBP) is a disease characterized by eosinophilic infiltration of ... more Eosinophilic bronchopneumopathy (EBP) is a disease characterized by eosinophilic infiltration of the lung and bronchial mucosa, as demonstrated by examination of bronchoalveolar lavage fluid cytologic preparations or histologic examination of the bronchial mucosa. Although the precise cause of EBP is unknown, a hypersensitivity to aeroallergens is suspected. The diagnosis relies on typical history and clinical signs, demonstration of bronchopulmonary eosinophilia by cytology or histopathologic examination, and exclusion of known causes of lower airway eosinophilia. Most dogs display an excellent response to oral corticosteroid therapy; however, side effects of this treatment can be limiting. New therapeutic approaches are being studied, including the use of aerosol therapy, cyclosporine, or drugs interfering with T helper 2 immune response.

Research paper thumbnail of Update on Canine Sinonasal Aspergillosis

Veterinary Clinics of North America: Small Animal Practice, 2007

Sinonasal aspergillosis is a frequent cause of nasal discharge that occurs in otherwise healthy, ... more Sinonasal aspergillosis is a frequent cause of nasal discharge that occurs in otherwise healthy, young to middle-aged dogs. A local immune dysfunction is suspected in affected animals, and the role of increased interleukin-10 mRNA expression in the nasal mucosa of affected dogs is currently under investigation. Despite recent advances in imaging techniques, the &amp;amp;amp;amp;quot;gold standard&amp;amp;amp;amp;quot; for diagnosing the disease is direct visualization of fungal plaques during endoscopy or observation of fungal elements on cytology or histopathologic examination. Treatment can be challenging; however, the use of topical enilconazole or clotrimazole through noninvasive techniques has increased the success of treatment and decreased the morbidity and duration of hospitalization.

Research paper thumbnail of Primary ciliary dyskinesia and situs inversus in a young dog

Veterinary Record, 2008

... Archives of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine 101, 95-99. ↵: Lohse CL,; Selcer R. R &; Su... more ... Archives of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine 101, 95-99. ↵: Lohse CL,; Selcer R. R &; Suter PF. (1976) Hepatoencephalopathy associated with situs inversus of abdominal organs and vascular anomalies in a dog. ... Sign up for job alerts. ...

Research paper thumbnail of A pilot study comparing the antispasmodic effects of inhaled salmeterol, salbutamol and ipratropium bromide using different aerosol devices on muscarinic bronchoconstriction in healthy cats

The Veterinary Journal, 2009

This study compared the duration and magnitude of the antispasmodic effects of salmeterol (SLM), ... more This study compared the duration and magnitude of the antispasmodic effects of salmeterol (SLM), salbutamol (SAL), ipratropium bromide (IB) and the combination of SAL and IB (SAL/IB) against carbachol-induced bronchoconstriction in healthy cats, and investigated the gain in efficacy using a two or fourfold increase in drug dosages. The drug regimens used were: (1) SLM 25 microg, SAL 100 microg, IB 20 microg and SAL/IB 100 microg/20 microg for bronchodilators delivered by a metered-dose inhaler (MDI); (2) SAL 3.75 mg and IB 62.5 microg for nebulised (NEB) medications. To monitor the bronchodilator effect, airway responsiveness was assessed at different time points using barometric whole-body plethysmography and calculation of the concentration of inhaled carbachol inducing a 300% increase of baseline Penh (enhanced pause), an estimator of airflow limitation. Maximum C-Penh300 was recorded 15 min after NEB SAL, IB MDI, NEB IB and 1h after SAL MDI and 4h after SLM MDI, respectively. C-Penh300 was significantly different from control values (without treatment) up to 24h for SLM MDI, 8h for IB MDI and 4h for other drugs. In terms of efficacy, SAL/IB MDI showed a synergistic antispasmodic effect at 15 min, 4h and 8h after administration. A fourfold increase of the initial dose of IB MDI and NEB IB significantly increased C-Penh300. Despite a fourfold dose increase, SLM displayed the weakest degree of bronchoprotection compared to other bronchodilators. The study provides evidence that inhaled bronchodilators are efficient at preventing muscarinic-induced bronchospasm in healthy cats and that SAL and IB appear to be short-acting bronchodilators in contrast to SLM.

Research paper thumbnail of Description of original endoscopic findings and respiratory functional assessment using barometric whole-body plethysmography in dogs suffering from brachycephalic airway obstruction syndrome

The Veterinary Journal, 2010

The clinical features of brachycephalic airway obstructive disease in 11 brachycephalic dogs are ... more The clinical features of brachycephalic airway obstructive disease in 11 brachycephalic dogs are described in this study. The respiratory strategy was assessed before (n = 11) and after (n = 6) surgery using barometric whole-body plethysmography (BWBP), with the relationship between BWBP variables and the severity of the clinical signs assessed by the use of a respiratory score based on clinical, radiographic and endoscopic findings.