Periglandular fibrosis and cystic dilation of uterine glands are associated with equine endometriosis. The presence of extracellular matrix proteins (collagen type I, III and IV, laminin and fibronectin) in healthy and endometriotic specimens was demonstrated by immunohistochemistry. The distribution of collagen I, but not collagen III, was dependent on the stage of the oestrous cycle. The arrangement of collagen I and collagen III in endometriotic specimens was similar to that in normal endometrium. In periglandular fibrosis, collagen IV, laminin and fibronectin deposition outside the basement membrane was observed. In these regions, stromal cells were characterized immunohistochemically as myofibroblasts because of their expression of a-smooth muscle actin, and occasionally tropomyosin and desmin. Periglandular differentiation of contractile cells could be interpreted as a reaction to support the extrusion of secretions in cystic dilated glands. Moreover, the changes of extracellular matrix proteins are characteristic for neoplastic lesions, although further development of endometriosis to benign or malignant tumours is not known in horses. Knowledge of the factors responsible for these fibroblastic modulations may be the key to explaining the pathogenesis of endometriosis.

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Concerns have been raised about pet monkeys as a potential threat to humans. We report the opposite situation, a danger to pets that arises from humans. Similar to herpesvirus B (Cercopithecine herpesvirus 1), which endangers humans but not its host species, Human herpesvirus 1 can act as a “killer virus” when crossing the species barrier to New World monkeys.

A synovial cyst of the fifth digit of the left forelimb in a 15-year-old cat was diagnosed. Radiographs showed severe osteoarthritis of the interphalangeal and metacarpophalangeal joints with soft tissue swelling. An ultrasound examination of the digit revealed a cystic structure. Following amputation of the digit, the cyst recurred 3 months later palmar to the carpus and metacarpus. The aetiology of synovial cysts is discussed.

Glycoconjugate patterns of uterine glands were altered in mares with chronic endometrial degeneration. Therefore, uterine secretions are likely to be altered. These changes are not induced by changes in content of estrogen and progesterone receptors in endometrial tissues.