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Identification of Neutrophil Extracellular Traps in Paraffin-Embedded Feline Arterial Thrombi using Immunofluorescence Microscopy
Published on: March 29, 2020
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Infective endocarditis in 13 cats
Jean-Sébastien Palerme1, Ashley E Jones2, Jessica L Ward1
1Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Iowa State University, College of Veterinary Medicine, 1809 South Riverside Drive, Ames, IA 50011, USA.
Summary
Infective endocarditis (IE) in cats often presents with respiratory distress and mobility issues, leading to a grave prognosis. Early diagnosis is crucial for managing this severe cardiac condition in felines.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Cardiology
- Internal Medicine
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Infective endocarditis (IE) is a serious cardiac condition.
- Feline IE diagnosis and outcomes are not well-documented.
- This study investigates feline IE at two referral institutions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the clinical presentation of feline IE.
- To identify clinicopathological abnormalities in cats with IE.
- To determine the outcomes and prognosis for cats diagnosed with IE.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective case series of 13 cats diagnosed with IE using modified Duke criteria.
- Medical records were reviewed for clinical data.
- Polymerase chain reaction was used to detect Bartonella DNA in available cardiac tissue.
Main Results:
- Feline IE prevalence was 0.007%.
- Affected cats were older (median 9 years) with common signs including respiratory distress and locomotor abnormalities.
- Valvular lesions were detected on aortic or mitral valves, with 9 cats experiencing congestive heart failure.
Conclusions:
- Feline IE typically presents with signs of cardiac decompensation and locomotor issues.
- The prognosis for cats with IE is grave due to advanced disease at diagnosis.
- Bartonella DNA was investigated as a potential cause.
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