A Case of Segmental Aplasia of the Uterus, Cervix, and Cranial Vagina in a Cat
This case documents a rare set of congenital anomalies that resulted in an atypical cystic lesion in the cranial vagina of a queen. A discrete cystic lesion was identified in an 8 year old intact female domestic shorthair cat presenting for routine ovariohysterectomy. Morphological, radiographic, and histopathological findings were consistent with segmental aplasia of the uterus, cervix, and vagina resulting in a blind dilation of the cranial vagina. Segmental vaginal aplasia in combination with the failed canalization of the cervix resulted in a blind portion of the cranial vagina, in which normal secretions collected and became inspissated. This formed a discrete cystic structure. This case represents a novel combination and clinical presentation of segmental aplasia in the cat, involving both the uterus and cranial vagina. Ovariohysterectomy was performed for sterilization and a partial vaginectomy was performed to remove the cystic lesion in its entirety.
Hydrometra in two cats
Chronic abdominal distension in two female cats 2½ and 13 years old respectively was due to bilateral hydrometra. In both cases the condition resulted from absence of an internal cervical os with consequent accumulation of normal uterine secretions. The most likely cause was a segmental failure in the development of the Mullerian duct system.
Improving the Nutritional Intake and Physical Activity of Children from Low-Income Households via Family, School, and Workplace Policy
Childhood obesity remains high, especially among children from racially and ethnically diverse and low-income households, and it is associated with numerous negative health consequences in adulthood. Family, home, school, and workplace environments are recommended areas for expanding policies and implementing strategic interventions for child obesity designed to improve nutritional intake and increase physical activity. Family-based interventions offer a variety of strategies to lower the incidence of obesity. Programs such as the federally funded Child and Adult Care Food Program can be extended to work with families and caregivers in schools. Further workplace wellness programs could use federal programs such as the USDA Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program to establish policies and initiatives that extend obesity interventions to employees’ families.