Bladder inflammation
Overview:
There are many causes of cystitis, which is an inflammation of the urinary bladder. More common causes include a bacterial infection of the urinary tract, bladder stones, polyps, tumors, and an anatomical defect called a diverticulum, which is a tiny pocket in the bladder wall that retains urine.
Cystitis causes a wide range of problems with urination. Some dogs may strain to urinate, urinate more frequently, or become incontinent. Blood also may appear in the urine. Depending on the cause of the inflammation, the cystitis may be treated through a variety of methods. Often, dogs will recover from the disease, but animals that develop cystitis because of a tumor carry a guarded prognosis.
Corneal ulcer
Overview:
The cornea is the multi-layered transparent part of the front of the eye. It plays a vital role in vision. Injury, bacterial, fungal, and viral infection, diseases of the eye and eyelid, and a number of other conditions can cause the cornea to ulcerate. A corneal ulcer can develop serious complications that may compromise visual acuity and even result in loss of sight if not promptly treated by a veterinarian.
Coccidia
Overview:
Coccidiosis is an infection of microscopic parasites called coccidia that invade the intestines of dogs and cats. The most common type of coccidia in dogs is Isospora canis, while cats are most frequently affected by Isospora felis. Coccidiosis usually is not a great threat to a healthy dog or cat, but animals that are debilitated or immunocompromised can become very ill from a coccidia infection. Puppies and kittens also are much more susceptible to severe coccidiosis.
Bronchoscopy, airway scoping
Overview:
Bronchoscopy is a diagnostic procedure for patients with respiratory tract disease. It can be used to identify structural abnormalities, abnormal airway secretions, foreign bodies, and mass lesions including certain tumors. Additional procedures combined with bronchoscopy can allow for identification of inflammation or infection in the respiratory tract. Specialized equipment and expertise is required for performing bronchoscopy and for monitoring the patients during the procedure.
Bronchoscopy does not always identify the cause of an individual animal's problem, but at least it can rule out many potential explanations for it.
Blasto, Blastomycosis
Overview:
Blastomycosis is an infection caused by the fungal organism Blastomyces dermatidis. The disease usually results in respiratory infection; however, the organism can cause disease in many body tissues including the eyes, skin, reproductive tract, and bones. Blastomycosis is a serious disease that can be fatal.
Blastomyces dermatidis is found in the environment predominantly in the Missouri, Ohio, Tennessee, and Mississippi river valleys. Although all animals in these regions are exposed to the organism, only some animals will develop infections. A compromised immune system is the primary risk factor.
Symptoms depend upon the tissues infected by the organism. Treatment requires the use of antifungal medications, often for several weeks to months. In some instances, a cure is not possible and death may result. However, constant medication may keep the disease under control.