X-ray fluoroscopy is an imaging examination method that uses X-rays to create a series of moving images of the part of the body being examined. The X-ray machine is freely movable thanks to a C-shaped arm (= C-arm), allowing the body part or organ to be viewed from all angles in real time on the monitor.
Fluoroscopy is used during surgery on fractures (broken bones), blood vessels, or the heart. Contrast agents can also be used to visualize dynamic processes such as heart valve movements or swallowing.
As with X-rays (see corresponding article), appropriate protective measures must be taken, such as wearing protective clothing to minimize radiation exposure.
A melanoma is a tumor that develops from the pigment cells of the skin, known as melanocytes. The tumor produces cells that contain melanin, the dark pigment in the skin. If the tumor is benign, it is referred to as a melanoma; if it is malignant, it is referred to as a melanosarcoma. In human medicine, melanomas are commonly referred to as "black skin cancer."
Castration of stallions is one of the most common medical procedures performed on horses and refers to the surgical removal of the male sex organs or gonads (testicles). This is an amputation permitted under animal welfare legislation. A castrated stallion is referred to as a gelding and is permanently infertile.
Everyone has probably heard the term "mangy dog" before. But what exactly is mange? Mange is a contagious skin disease in dogs caused by various types of mites. Classic mange in dogs is caused by the Sarcoptes mite (scabies mite). However, there are other types of mites that cause similar skin changes.
Fungal diseases are among the most common skin diseases in horses. They occur regardless of the season, are easily transmissible, and cause circular, scaly, non-itchy skin lesions. Young horses whose immune systems are not yet fully developed are particularly affected. Humans can also become infected with a skin fungus from horses, meaning that it is a zoonosis.
Horse influenza, similar to influenza in humans, is a highly contagious viral disease of the upper and lower respiratory tract. Its classic progression makes it easy to distinguish from other respiratory diseases. With the exception of New Zealand and Australia, it occurs worldwide. It is the most common viral respiratory disease in horses. Despite almost universal vaccination, outbreaks of the disease continue to occur.
Cats communicate through various channels. Their behavior, body language, vocalizations, and scent markings, which are largely invisible to humans, speak volumes. But how can "cat language" be translated into "human language"?
Gastritis is an inflammation of the stomach lining that can occur in dogs as a result of superficial or deep injuries. Persistent irritation of the stomach lining can lead to chronic inflammation and ultimately to a stomach ulcer. The disease can take an acute or chronic course.
Like humans and dogs, horses can also suffer from poor heart performance. In heart failure, the heart is unable to pump enough blood through the body, resulting in a lack of oxygen supply to the cells and a backup of blood in the body and pulmonary circulation.
Giardiasis is a diarrheal disease in dogs and cats caused by single-celled parasites in the small intestine. There are different types of Giardia, most of which are harmless to humans. However, some rare forms can also be transmitted to humans, making it a zoonosis. Young children and immunocompromised individuals are particularly at risk, which is why strict hygiene measures are essential when dealing with giardiasis.
Narcolepsy is a pathological sleep disorder in which animals initially appear to be dozing, but then suddenly fall asleep and sometimes collapse without support. In most cases, this sleep disorder is associated with a loss of muscle tone, known as cataplexy.
Wobbler syndrome describes a complex of symptoms caused by nerve damage in the cervical spine. The often typical ataxic (irregular) gait of affected animals gave the disease its name, as the English word "to wobble" means to sway or stagger. It occurs particularly often in Dobermans and Great Danes, but other large breeds of dog can also be affected. Male dogs are twice as likely to develop the condition as females.
Dourine is a worldwide, notifiable horse disease that is transmitted through mating. It is highly contagious, spreads very quickly and is almost always fatal. It occurs mainly in Asia, North and South Africa. Thanks to appropriate control measures, the disease is now considered to have been eradicated in Australia, North America and Central Europe.
