Journal Of Zoo And Wildlife Medicine[JOURNAL]
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200 papers
CASE-CONTROL STUDY OF THE FREQUENCY AND ETIOLOGY OF ATAXIA IN ASIATIC LIONS () BETWEEN 2002 AND 2020.
Beers BG, Corbee RJ, Veraa S … +4 more , Hartmann A, Geiger C, Schauerte N, Sonsbeek LGRB
J Zoo Wildl Med · 2024 Sep · PMID 39255206 · Publisher ↗
The Asiatic lion () is an endangered species with a slowly increasing captive and wild population. Several zoos from within the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria Ex Situ Program reported Asiatic lions with neurolo...
The Asiatic lion () is an endangered species with a slowly increasing captive and wild population. Several zoos from within the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria Ex Situ Program reported Asiatic lions with neurological signs such as (progressive) ataxia, and stargazing. The aim of this study was to evaluate the frequency (prevalence and incidence) and etiology of these clinical signs within the captive Asiatic lion population. The medical history of 74 Asiatic lions (36 healthy and 38 affected) was retrieved and reviewed for blood tests (biochemical, hematological, and retinol), diagnostic imaging (MRI and CT scans) and postmortem examinations. The data of the affected lions was compared with those of healthy lions. Between 2002 and 2020, the prevalence of ataxia ranged from 0.6% in 2004 to 13.0% in 2020. The incidence of ataxia was variable per year between 2002 and 2020 and ranged between 0 and 40%. Besides ataxia, stiffness and lameness were the most described signs in this study. Blood results showed lower total protein, ALT and creatinine, and higher phosphate in lions with neurological signs. Moreover, neurologically affected lions showed a significant lower blood retinol than the control lions (0.59-0.81 µmol/L). The most important finding in diagnostic imaging and necropsy included caudal fossa hyperostosis and cerebellar herniation. These abnormalities are similar as found in African lions () with calvarial hyperostosis syndrome associated with vitamin A deficiency. Leucomyelopathy, syringomyelia (in one case combined with cerebellar herniation) and incidental mineralization of the dura mater were also described. A possible congenital/hereditary component should not be excluded.
USE OF THE ZOOLOGICAL INFORMATION MANAGEMENT SYSTEM (ZIMS) DATABASE (2003-2023) FOR EVALUATION OF PRACTITIONER-SELECTED MELOXICAM DOSES AND THE RELATIONSHIP TO AVIAN TAXONOMY.
Roeder M, Inauen D, van Zeeland YRA … +2 more , Bruins-van Sonsbeek LGR, Gehring R
J Zoo Wildl Med · 2024 Sep · PMID 39255205 · Publisher ↗
Meloxicam, a commonly used NSAID, has wide variation in pharmacokinetics between different avian species. The present study hypothesized that meloxicam dosage regimens were similar within, but differ between, groups of a...
Meloxicam, a commonly used NSAID, has wide variation in pharmacokinetics between different avian species. The present study hypothesized that meloxicam dosage regimens were similar within, but differ between, groups of avian species with similar feeding habits, habitats, or migratory behaviors. Utilizing the international Zoological Information Management System (ZIMS), drug usage extracts were compiled for meloxicam across eleven major orders of birds. The orders were selected based on their prevalence in zoological collections, wildlife rehabilitation centers, the pet trade, and production environments. Each species with a record available in drug usage extracts was classified into broad categories of main habitat, diet, and migratory status. Significant patterns associated with habitat, diet, or migratory status were not identified statistically. An inverse relationship was identified statistically between the practitioner mg/kg dose and body weight in kg in birds that weigh approximately 20 kg or greater. This study includes practitioner-reported summary data of current doses used in the veterinary field to treat many different avian species. Adverse effects of meloxicam were recorded in <5% of individuals evaluated at the species level in this study.
CAUSES OF MORBIDITY AND MORTALITY IN STELLER SEA LIONS () UNDER PROFESSIONAL CARE IN NORTH AMERICAN AQUARIUMS FROM 1979 TO 2021.
Lum AM, Tuttle AD, Martony ME … +8 more , Anderson ET, Anderson CE, Haulena M, Goertz CEC, Raverty SA, Burek-Huntington KA, Thompson LA, Dunn JL
J Zoo Wildl Med · 2024 Sep · PMID 39255204 · Publisher ↗
To date, published comprehensive pathology investigations documented in Steller sea lions (SSL; ) are from free-ranging populations, whereas health data from those under professional care in aquariums are currently lacki...
To date, published comprehensive pathology investigations documented in Steller sea lions (SSL; ) are from free-ranging populations, whereas health data from those under professional care in aquariums are currently lacking. A retrospective review of gross and histopathologic reports of SSL under human care in North American aquariums from 1979 to 2021 ( = 20) was performed. Associations between age, sex, or birth origin (born in aquariums versus the wild) with cause of death (COD) and comorbidities were explored. Age was significantly associated with development of endocrine organ pathology ( = 0.011). A relationship between age and both cardiovascular and ocular disease was suggested by the data, but did not reach significance ( = 0.058). Ocular disease was significantly associated with being born in aquariums ( = 0.022). The most common COD was neoplasia ( = 10), which was significantly associated with aged animals ( = 0.038). Less frequent COD included sepsis (confirmed, = 2; suspected, = 3), cardiomyopathy ( = 1), clostridial enteritis ( = 1), spp. ( = 1), complication secondary to sedation ( = 1), and unknown ( = 1). This is the first report documenting the high prevalence of neoplasia in SSL, with tumors found incidentally in three individuals, frequent metastasis (10/13, 77%), and many cases of multiple primary malignancies (6/13, 46%). These data expand upon the current understanding of disease in SSL, highlight this species' predisposition to neoplasia with increasing longevity, and underscore the need for heightened screening in aged animals, which may ultimately serve to elevate the care of SSL under professional care in aquariums.
BLOOD LEAD CONCENTRATION ANALYSIS BETWEEN REHABILITATION FACILITY AND PERI-URBAN ENVIRONMENT VIRGINIA OPOSSUMS () OF ILLINOIS.
McDaniel A, Sander WE, Sander SJ … +2 more , Mateus-Pinilla NE, Bischoff K
J Zoo Wildl Med · 2024 Sep · PMID 39255203 · Publisher ↗
The Virginia opossum () is the only marsupial in North America with a natural range north of Mexico. Its range is widespread throughout the United States, including Illinois. Virginia opossums are opportunistic omnivores...
The Virginia opossum () is the only marsupial in North America with a natural range north of Mexico. Its range is widespread throughout the United States, including Illinois. Virginia opossums are opportunistic omnivores that will eat a variety of fruits, grains, insects, and even carrion. They are a ground-foraging species, with frequent soil contact allowing for potential exposure to heavy metal contaminants in terrestrial environments. They are also opportunists that thrive in human-altered ecosystems, including peri-urban environments. Lead is a naturally occurring element and highly toxic metal that is abundant in the soil, primarily due to anthropogenic factors such as fossil fuel use, paint, industrial production waste, and battery recycling. Furthermore, carrion and offal piles containing lead bullet fragments remaining from hunting result in environmental contamination of this heavy metal. Few studies exist on lead exposure in the Virginia opossum. This pilot study evaluates the blood lead burden of 16 free-ranging Virginia opossums presented to a wildlife rehabilitation facility, compared with 16 wild-caught Virginia opossums trapped in grassland, maintained forest, or mixed ecotones. In other species, lead toxicosis has been associated with cognitive dysfunction that may increase the likelihood of trauma or injury in a free-ranging setting. In addition, a high incidence of Virginia opossums presenting for wildlife rehabilitation do so as result of human-animal conflict. Therefore, it was anticipated that individuals presenting for wildlife rehabilitation would have significantly higher blood lead concentrations than their free-roaming counterparts. In this study, every Virginia opossum had measurable blood lead concentrations and the average blood lead concentration of the rehabilitated group was 2.7 times higher than that measured in wild-caught Virginia opossums. These results suggest that Virginia opossums are exposed and susceptible to lead toxicosis due to their diet and foraging behaviors, making them more prone to subsequent injury and presentation to wildlife rehabilitation centers.
POPULATION PHARMACOKINETICS OF CEFPODOXIME IN BOTTLENOSE DOLPHINS ().
Linnehan BK, Lesman SP, Boucher JF … +6 more , Grover GS, Brodie EC, Meegan JM, McClain AM, Ross KP, Jensen ED
J Zoo Wildl Med · 2024 Sep · PMID 39255202 · Publisher ↗
Cefpodoxime proxetil is commonly used to treat cetacean patients with suspected or confirmed bacterial infections; however, pharmacokinetic data are needed to guide proper dosing in these species. Cefpodoxime proxetil is...
Cefpodoxime proxetil is commonly used to treat cetacean patients with suspected or confirmed bacterial infections; however, pharmacokinetic data are needed to guide proper dosing in these species. Cefpodoxime proxetil is a time-dependent, semisynthetic, third-generation cephalosporin, appropriate for once-daily dosing and U.S. Food and Drug Administration-approved for use in dogs with a broad spectrum of activity including gram-positive and gram-negative species. The objective of this study was to evaluate the population pharmacokinetics of cefpodoxime in bottlenose dolphins (). A sparse-sampling design was used, with serum from dolphins receiving cefpodoxime proxetil at 10 mg/kg orally every 24 h to treat suspected or confirmed bacterial infections. Serum samples ( = 57) from 24 dolphins were analyzed at 12 time points from 0 to 96 h postdose. Serum samples were analyzed using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. Population pharmacokinetic analysis was performed using nonlinear mixed-effects modeling. One- and two-compartment linear models with first order absorption were tested. Covariates including weight, age, and sex were considered for inclusion in the model, and between-subject variability was incorporated. A two-compartment model performed best, where following an oral dose of 10 mg/kg, serum concentration reached a mean maximum concentration of 23.0 µg/ml, mean time to maximum concentration of 5.0 h, and mean half-life of 11.4 h. With daily dosing, accumulation was approximately 18% and steady state was reached by the second dose. Serum protein binding was 82.8% as determined by equilibrium dialysis, similar to plasma protein binding reported in dogs. Based on the population pharmacokinetic model, once-daily oral dosing was systemically absorbed and quickly reached maximum concentrations. The half-life in dolphins appears to be longer than other species studied to date. Given the paucity of antimicrobial pharmacokinetic studies in dolphins, and limited once-daily oral antibiotic options for this species, these data are helpful for clinicians to make informed antimicrobial choices.
SERIAL CHANGES IN METABOLIC ACID-BASE STATUS IN THREE SPECIES OF ANESTHETIZED CAPTIVE LARGE FELID.
Dougherty N, Gartrell B, Walsh V … +2 more , Chatterton J, Lenting B
J Zoo Wildl Med · 2024 Sep · PMID 39255201 · Publisher ↗
Determination of acid-base status contributes important information about patient health, including for patients under anesthesia. There is a paucity of information about the determinants of acid-base status of large fel...
Determination of acid-base status contributes important information about patient health, including for patients under anesthesia. There is a paucity of information about the determinants of acid-base status of large felids managed under anesthesia, and advancement of such knowledge may contribute to patient safety. This study serially monitored the individual metabolic acid-base status of 11 large felids, including lions (), tigers (), and cheetahs (), under general anesthesia. We analyzed the contributions of measured strong ions (sodium, chloride, potassium, lactate), weak acids and buffers (albumin, phosphate and bicarbonate), and unmeasured anions to standardized extracellular base excess (SBE). A general linear model assessed for species differences in these parameters, with time since immobilization, SBE, and mean arterial pressure as covariates. By employing a Stewart-based analytical approach, it was possible to separate chloremic and unmeasured anion contributions to metabolic acid base status. This provided a basis for identifying mixed metabolic processes, generating differentials for underlying causes. Using normal acid base parameters for domestic felids, metabolic acidosis was found to be prevalent. Frequent evidence of unmeasured anion accumulation was also found, with unmeasured anions occasionally exceeding 5mmol/L. These findings warrant further inquiry into the drivers and clinical significance of metabolic acidosis and unmeasured anion accumulations in anesthetized large felids, encouraging further anion identity studies to elucidate possible causes. Reference ranges need to be established for acid-base parameters in large felids as a foundation for interpreting more controlled, prospective research into determinants of metabolic acid-base status in these animals under anesthesia.
ADAPTATION OF A COMMERCIALLY AVAILABLE WESTERN BLOT KIT FOR THE DETECTION OF ANTIBODY TO IN PENGUINS IN FRANCE AND THE UNITED STATES.
Leclerc A, Piarroux R, Callico A … +2 more , Bronson E, Cray C
J Zoo Wildl Med · 2024 Sep · PMID 39255200 · Publisher ↗
Antemortem serodiagnosis of aspergillosis remains challenging in Sphenisciformes. Protein electrophoresis, serology (antibody, antigen) by ELISA, and gliotoxin detection provide variable diagnostic value. In the present...
Antemortem serodiagnosis of aspergillosis remains challenging in Sphenisciformes. Protein electrophoresis, serology (antibody, antigen) by ELISA, and gliotoxin detection provide variable diagnostic value. In the present study, a commercially available Western blot (WB) validated for use in humans and dolphins was adapted for use with penguin samples. Using the same method and reagents, samples were analyzed from multiple institutions in the United States and one facility in France. This was inclusive of normal juvenile African penguins (, n = 10) and various species of penguins in the United States with confirmed infection (n = 9) as well as 52 samples from Humboldt penguins () in France. Cumulative WB scores (based on reactivity to different antigens) were found to be significantly higher in the group of penguins with confirmed infection (p < 0.0001). Significant differences were also observed between the clinically normal penguins in the two populations, with higher scores in the United States (median score 1.0, 95%CI [0-5], min 0, max 11) compared to France (median score 0,95%CI [0-0], min 0, max 5). The utilization of the WB as a diagnostic tool is inconclusive due to the use of samples from varying institutions, environmental background, age, and stages of infection. However, this tool may provide an overview of antigen reactivity in penguins infected with to help design a more robust serology assay and further understand the humoral immune response during infection.
EFFECT OF SUBSTRATE AND WALKING SURFACES ON CENTRAL METATARSAL FOOT PAD WEIGHT LOADING IN MAGELLANIC PENGUINS () WITH AND WITHOUT PODODERMATITIS: AN EX VIVO STUDY.
Faith Yang SH, Aymen J, Beaufrère H
J Zoo Wildl Med · 2024 Sep · PMID 39255199 · Publisher ↗
Pododermatitis is common in penguins kept under human care. Substrate optimization plays an important role in prevention and treatment; however, there is limited information on biomechanical properties of commonly used s...
Pododermatitis is common in penguins kept under human care. Substrate optimization plays an important role in prevention and treatment; however, there is limited information on biomechanical properties of commonly used substrates on penguin feet. The objectives were to test the ability of different substrates to decrease weight loading on the central metatarsal pad of penguin feet in an ex vivo model using feet with and without bumblefoot harvested from two Magellanic penguin () cadavers. Penguin feet were attached to a digital force gauge mounted onto a stand for compression testing at 2.5 and 5 kg. Forces at the central metatarsal pad were measured in triplicate using small force sensors. Tested substrates included five granular surfaces (sand, wet sand, pea gravel, wet pea gravel, and crushed ice), three compliant surfaces (short-leaf Astroturf, long-leaf Astroturf, and neoprene), and three firm surfaces (tile, rubber drainage mat, and 3M Safety-Walk Wet Area Matting). Data were analyzed using linear mixed models. There were multifaceted effects of applied pressures, substrate surfaces, and pododermatitis on central metatarsal measured pressures. In general, doubling compression forces resulted in higher measured pressures in all firm and compliant surfaces but not in granular surfaces. Firm surfaces were associated with higher recorded plantar pressures at 2.5 kg, but different significance groupings emerged at 5 kg with a high-, medium-, and low-pressure cluster of surfaces. Pododermatitis lesions resulted in significant alterations in statistical significance clustering among substrate surfaces and unique substrate behaviors. The results of this study could help in making recommendations pertaining to foot health for penguin exhibits.
HEMATOLOGY AND BIOCHEMICAL REFERENCE INTERVALS FOR FREE-RANGING PRONGHORN () IN WEST TEXAS.
Reeves AM, Gray SS, Harveson LA … +4 more , Hilton CD, Springer CM, Conway WC, Dittmar RO
J Zoo Wildl Med · 2024 Sep · PMID 39255198 · Publisher ↗
Pronghorn () are considered a keystone species of North American grasslands and an important economic source for many landowners in Texas. Pronghorn restoration projects routinely capture and translocate individuals from...
Pronghorn () are considered a keystone species of North American grasslands and an important economic source for many landowners in Texas. Pronghorn restoration projects routinely capture and translocate individuals from surplus populations to restoration areas. The objective of this study was to generate normal hematological and biochemical reference intervals (RI) for free-ranging pronghorn populations in Texas as a health monitoring tool for pronghorn restoration efforts. Blood samples were collected by jugular venipuncture and divided among an EDTA tube, serum separator tube, and a single blood smear on site. Complete blood counts and biochemical profiles were completed at the Texas Veterinary Medical Diagnostic Laboratory. In total, 417 individuals (41 males, 376 females) were included in the analysis. RI were determined by robust methods (R Studio) and mixed models' analysis of variance (SPSS 28) to examine differences in blood parameters due to fever, sex, age (adult versus yearling [<1 yr of age]), cell abnormalities, and pathogen exposure reported by the testing laboratory. Sex, age, and pathogen exposure affected mean blood values, but did not warrant development of separate RI by class. Bluetongue virus was identified in 46.8% (195/417) of pronghorns and epizootic hemorrhagic disease in 89.4% (194/217) of pronghorns; 84.8% (184/217) of the pronghorns tested positive for both diseases. This information provides baseline hematology and biochemical parameters to assess the health of free-ranging pronghorn and guide wildlife managers in decision-making for future translocations and restoration objectives.
ASSESSMENT OF ACUTE PHASE PROTEINS AND PROTEIN ELECTROPHORESIS IN HEALTHY GIBBONS (HYLOBATIDAE) IN MANAGED SETTINGS.
Ambar N, Thurber MI, Montiani-Ferreira F … +1 more , Cray C
J Zoo Wildl Med · 2024 Sep · PMID 39255197 · Publisher ↗
Acute phase proteins (APP) and protein electrophoresis (EPH) offer crucial insights into inflammation and overall health in various species. In this study, we validated serum amyloid A (SAA) and C-reactive protein (CRP)...
Acute phase proteins (APP) and protein electrophoresis (EPH) offer crucial insights into inflammation and overall health in various species. In this study, we validated serum amyloid A (SAA) and C-reactive protein (CRP) reagents for use with serum samples from gibbons (Hylobatidae, = 50), spanning five species across four gibbon genera: eastern hoolock (), Javan (), pileated (), siamang (), and white-cheeked (). Preliminary reference intervals ( = 50) were calculated for SAA (1.8-48.1 mg/L), CRP (0.1-11.1 mg/L), and EPH via capillary zone electrophoresis, in healthy gibbons. Comparing clinically normal ( = 38) and abnormal ( = 12) individuals, significant differences were observed in the albumin/globulin ratio ( = 0.0003), prealbumin ( = 0.0345), and albumin ( = 0.0094), with abnormal individuals exhibiting statistically significantly higher γ-globulins ( = 0.0224), SAA ( = 0.0001), and CRP ( = 0.0003). Despite significant chromosomal rearrangements among different gibbon species, we found no statistically significant differences of SAA and CRP levels across species. However, some differences between species were observed in EPH fractions. This study presents the first report of the evaluation of APP and EPH in gibbons, underscoring the potential use of these biomarkers in gibbon health monitoring. Further research with larger sample sizes of both normal and abnormal gibbons is recommended to solidify the clinical utility of these biomarkers in these species.
CYSTOCENTESIS AND URINALYSIS IN ZOOMEDICINE: AN UNDERESTIMATED TOOL FOR LARGE FELID STANDARD HEALTH CHECKS.
Rauch-Schmücking H, Bohner J, Goeritz F … +9 more , Bakker D, Stalder G, Stenvinkel P, Johnson RJ, Shiels PG, Redtenbacher I, Azogu-Sepe I, Burgener IA, Painer-Gigler J
J Zoo Wildl Med · 2024 Sep · PMID 39255196 · Publisher ↗
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a prevalent disease among felids; yet its origin is still poorly understood, and the disease often remains asymptomatic for years, underscoring the need for early diagnosis. This study aim...
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a prevalent disease among felids; yet its origin is still poorly understood, and the disease often remains asymptomatic for years, underscoring the need for early diagnosis. This study aimed to investigate the diagnostic value of urinalysis in accurately staging CKD, particularly as routine health checks in large felids often overlook its significance. In this research, ultrasound-guided cystocentesis (UGC) was performed on 50 captive nondomestic felids during routine veterinary health checks under general anesthesia. Urinalysis included microscopic examination of the sediment, measurement of urine specific gravity (USG) and protein to creatinine ratio (UPC). Additional serum kidney markers, such as creatinine and symmetric dimethylarginine, were compared with USG and UPC to assess their diagnostic value as urinary biomarkers. The results demonstrated proteinuria (UPC > 0.4) or borderline proteinuria (UPC 0.2-0.4) in 49% of the animals. Among these cases, 62% were of renal origin, and 38% were postrenal causes. USG was significantly higher in felids with borderline proteinuria compared to those with proteinuria. A moderate, but significant negative correlation between serum parameters and USG was observed, emphasizing the importance of assessing both diagnostic parameters during kidney evaluations. Additionally, felids with CKD have an increased risk of urinary tract infections, necessitating microscopic urinalysis and bacterial culture analysis. Abnormalities, including hematuria, pyuria, crystalluria, and bacteriuria, were found in approximately 38% of cases through microscopical examination of urine. No complications associated with UGC were observed and abnormal findings were detected in 60% of the cases. Based on these results, the authors recommend the inclusion of UGC and urinalysis as standard diagnostic tools in general health checks for nondomestic felids. This approach provides valuable insights into the early detection and staging of CKD, supporting early intervention and supportive medical care to prolong renal health in these animals.
PHARMACOKINETIC PROFILES OF ORAL PHENYLBUTAZONE, MELOXICAM, AND FIROCOXIB IN SOUTHERN BLACK RHINOCEROS ().
Bryant B, Campbell-Ward M, Kimble B … +1 more , Govendir M
J Zoo Wildl Med · 2024 Sep · PMID 39255195 · Publisher ↗
The pharmacokinetic profile of selected NSAIDs in southern black rhinoceros () were studied. Phenylbutazone (PBZ), meloxicam (MEL), and firocoxib (FIR) were administered orally to five captive, black rhinoceros, and bloo...
The pharmacokinetic profile of selected NSAIDs in southern black rhinoceros () were studied. Phenylbutazone (PBZ), meloxicam (MEL), and firocoxib (FIR) were administered orally to five captive, black rhinoceros, and blood was collected at predetermined time points for NSAID quantification and noncompartmental pharmacokinetic (PK) analysis. Phenylbutazone 4.0 mg/kg PO q12h for three doses, MEL 0.3 mg/kg PO q24h administered twice, and a single oral dose of FIR 0.1 mg/kg, were tested with a minimum washout time of 2 wk. PBZ reached a median (range) peak concentration (C) of 9.42 (2.74-11.5) g/ml at a mean (range) time (T) of 6.00 (4.00 to >12.00) h, and the median (range) elimination half-life (T) was 6.07 (3.95-6.49) h. Phenylbutazone pharmacokinetic parameters for black rhinoceros in this study were similar to domestic horses. Meloxicam reached a median (range) C of 0.576 (0.357-0.655) µg/ml at a median (range) time (T) of 6.00 (4.00-12.00) h; the median (range) T of MEL was 14.0 (12.4-17.9) h. These results demonstrate that once-daily administration of MEL at 0.3 mg/kg resulted in a serum concentration of greater than 0.200 µg/ml from 2 to 24 h in four animals, which is within the analgesic range (0.200-0.400 µg/ml) for this drug in other species postulated by other studies. A single dose of firocoxib (0.1 mg/kg) reached a median (range) peak concentration (C) of 15.7 (9.65-17.3) ng/ml at a median (range) T of 4.00 (4.00-6.00) h. The median (range) elimination T of FIR was 4.96 (4.47-6.51) h, which is faster than in the horse. The data suggest that extrapolation from equine FIR dosage recommendations is inappropriate for black rhinoceros.
INFECTIONS IN AN EASTERN RATSNAKE () AND A TIMBER RATTLESNAKE ().
Velez ED, Garner MM, Jacobson ER … +6 more , Badial P, Bonar CJ, Riggs GL, Adair JE, Wellehan JFX, Ossiboff RJ
J Zoo Wildl Med · 2024 Jun · PMID 38875213 · Publisher ↗
This report describes infections in colubrid and viperid snakes. A captive eastern ratsnake () was presented for a large intraoral mass associated with the mandible. The mass was debulked and histologic examination reve...
This report describes infections in colubrid and viperid snakes. A captive eastern ratsnake () was presented for a large intraoral mass associated with the mandible. The mass was debulked and histologic examination revealed severe, granulomatous stomatitis with intralesional fungi exhibiting morphologic features consistent with . PCR and sequencing of affected tissues confirmed . Because of declining health, the ratsnake was euthanized and postmortem examination identified a disseminated infection involving the skeletal musculature, lung, kidney, mesentery, and mandible. A wild-caught timber rattlesnake (s) was presented for cutaneous lesions, weakness, and lethargy and later died. Postmortem examination revealed a mass-like structure in the esophagus characterized by high numbers of -like fungi associated with extensive granulomatous inflammation; the snake also had cutaneous mycosis suggestive of ophidiomycosis. This is the first report to document the unique morphologic features of in tissues and the presentation of schizangiellosis in snakes. Schizangiellosis should be considered as a differential diagnosis for nodular lesions involving the oral cavity and/or the gastrointestinal tract of snakes.
DESCRIPTION OF ESOPHAGOSTOMY TUBE PLACEMENT IN TWO GIANT ANTEATER () CADAVERS.
Camargo GC, Rahal SC, Ichikawa RS … +4 more , Filadelpho AL, Lima HC, Oliveira ELR, Moresco A
J Zoo Wildl Med · 2024 Jun · PMID 38875212 · Publisher ↗
Feeding of managed populations of giant anteater () is challenging in injured patients that present with anorexia. This report describes an approach for esophagostomy tube placement in this species. Cadavers of two adult...
Feeding of managed populations of giant anteater () is challenging in injured patients that present with anorexia. This report describes an approach for esophagostomy tube placement in this species. Cadavers of two adult giant anteaters were used for technique development. The animal was positioned in dorsal recumbency, and a guide feeding tube was inserted orally into the esophagus. A ventral midline incision in the midcervical region was made to access the esophagus and to protect submandibular salivary glands. The cervical musculature was dissected and retracted laterally to the right, the vagosympathetic nerve trunk was identified and preserved, and the esophagus was incised over the guide tube. The guide tube was removed to facilitate placement of the definitive tube, which was premeasured from its insertion point in the midcervical area to the level of the seventh-ninth intercostal space. The tube was secured to the cervical skin on the left side with a finger-trap suture.
FIELD TECHNIQUES FOR VASECTOMY IN BLACK HOWLER MONKEYS ().
Rummel SC, Cushing AC, Smith CK … +2 more , Yépez PJ, Haines D
J Zoo Wildl Med · 2024 Jun · PMID 38875211 · Publisher ↗
Three adult black howler monkeys () were vasectomized for the purpose of population control. Two different surgical approaches (inguinal and pelvic) were used to vasectomize the animals under general anesthesia. One monk...
Three adult black howler monkeys () were vasectomized for the purpose of population control. Two different surgical approaches (inguinal and pelvic) were used to vasectomize the animals under general anesthesia. One monkey was vasectomized with a pelvic approach, and the other two monkeys were vasectomized with an inguinal approach. The inguinal approach was minimally invasive and proved to be an effective field procedure, utilizing minimal surgical equipment with a mean operative time of 35 min. The inguinal approach allowed for better visualization of the spermatic cord, which prompted easier ligation and transection of the ductus deferens. Identification of the ductus deferens was successfully performed intraoperatively using a tuberculin syringe to aseptically aspirate cord contents, as histopathology was not available. All howler monkeys fully recovered without complication. The social hierarchy of the troop and mating behavior has not been affected. There have been no new pregnancies reported in the troop since the vasectomies were performed. The inguinal approach is preferred as it is minimally invasive and can be performed confidently in a field setting.
FOUR CASES OF SEVERED PEDUNCLES IN BOTTLENOSE DOLPHINS () ALONG THE ALABAMA COAST.
Munday MR, Russell ML, Clark CD … +4 more , Delaney MA, Kinsel MJ, Carmichael RH, Bloodgood JCG
J Zoo Wildl Med · 2024 Jun · PMID 38875210 · Publisher ↗
Alabama (AL) is a hotspot in the Gulf of Mexico (GoM) for human interaction-related cetacean strandings, including harassment, vessel strikes, and fisheries interactions. We examined four bottlenose dolphins () stranded...
Alabama (AL) is a hotspot in the Gulf of Mexico (GoM) for human interaction-related cetacean strandings, including harassment, vessel strikes, and fisheries interactions. We examined four bottlenose dolphins () stranded dead along the AL coast during 2012-2017 with severed peduncles suspected to be related to human interaction (HI). Evidence from each case, including photographs, gross necropsy results, and histopathologic findings when available, was reviewed to determine the mode of severance and whether it contributed to death. In each case, the severance site had smooth, clean edges on at least one side, indicating the use of a sharp instrument to remove the caudal peduncle and flukes. Three cases also had evidence of fisheries interactions, including linear impressions around the rostrum, fins and/or flukes, indicating that these animals may have been entangled in fisheries gear prior to death. Histopathology in one of these cases revealed that the severance occurred perimortem; speculatively, the caudal peduncle and flukes may have been cut off to facilitate removing the dolphin from its entanglement. Although cases of amputation and mutilation are not uncommon globally among stranding reports, few cases have been described and analyzed in the literature. This paper is the first to document and compare multiple cases of severed peduncles with evidence of HI, including fisheries, in the GoM. This case series enhances our understanding of the types of HI occurring in bottlenose dolphins and highlights the need for continued public education, policy, and management to address cases like these.
THE MANAGEMENT OF LYMPHOPROLIFERATIVE NEOPLASIA IN FOUR NORTHERN SEA OTTERS ().
McEntire MS, Tang KN, O'Connor MR … +1 more , Haulena M
J Zoo Wildl Med · 2024 Jun · PMID 38875209 · Publisher ↗
Lymphoproliferative neoplasia has been reported in both free-ranging sea otters and those in managed care, but little information is available on the management of this neoplastic disease in this species. This case serie...
Lymphoproliferative neoplasia has been reported in both free-ranging sea otters and those in managed care, but little information is available on the management of this neoplastic disease in this species. This case series describes clinical lymphoma in four northern sea otters () in managed care. Two otters presented with Stage 5 lymphoma with evidence of hematologic spread resulting in leukemia. Two additional otters presented with Stage 3 disease. Immunophenotypes in these cases included disseminated large B-cell lymphoma and lymphoblastic lymphoma of potential T-cell origin. Cases were managed with multiagent chemotherapy protocols including prednisone, L-asparaginase, cyclophosphamide, vincristine, cytosine arabinoside, lomustine, and doxorubicin. Unique approaches included the use of a vascular access port in one case and development of an autologous vaccine in another. Survival time ranged from 81 to 409 days. Diagnosis, staging, and treatment with multiagent protocols is recommended for the management of lymphoma in sea otters.
THREE CASES OF CLINICAL LEPTOSPIROSIS IN PATAGONIAN MARAS ().
Wells T, Kiupel M, Mani R … +3 more , Nofs SA, Thompson KA, Eustace R
J Zoo Wildl Med · 2024 Jun · PMID 38875208 · Publisher ↗
Rodents are typically viewed as asymptomatic reservoirs for leptospirosis infection, as clinical disease in rodents is rarely described. This report includes three separate cases of leptospirosis in Patagonian maras () o...
Rodents are typically viewed as asymptomatic reservoirs for leptospirosis infection, as clinical disease in rodents is rarely described. This report includes three separate cases of leptospirosis in Patagonian maras () over a 3-yr period in multiple locations within a single zoo. All three cases presented with varying clinical signs including lethargy, conjunctival hyperemia, hyperbilirubinemia, and presumed renal azotemia. Infection with spp. was diagnosed antemortem by PCR on whole blood ( = 1, Case 1) or urine ( = 2, Cases 2 and 3). antibody titers measured by serum microagglutination testing ( = 3) were elevated or increased in all three animals over a 1-3-wk period for serovars Bratislava and Hardjo (Case 1) and Grippotyphosa (Case 2 and 3). Two of the three animals responded to treatment with penicillin and doxycycline and supportive care, whereas one animal did not respond to treatment. Postmortem findings in this individual included conjunctivitis, chemosis, dehydration, icterus, tricavitary serosanguinous effusions, necrotizing hepatitis, diffuse pulmonary congestion, and edema. Immunohistochemical examination identified scattered organisms within hepatocytes and renal tubular epithelial cells. A wild raccoon () at the institution tested positive by PCR on kidney tissue for the same spp. serovar and was the suspected source of infection. This case series highlights the clinical importance of leptospirosis as a differential for Patagonian maras presenting with lethargy, ocular signs, acute hepatic disease, and azotemia.
NOVEL (SIMPLEXVIRUS DOLICHOTINEALPHA1) ASSOCIATED WITH FATALITY IN FOUR PATAGONIAN MARA ().
Freeman ME, Goe A, Ferguson SH … +8 more , Lee JK, Struthers JD, Buczek J, Black A, Childress AL, Armién AG, West G, Wellehan JFX
J Zoo Wildl Med · 2024 Jun · PMID 38875207 · Publisher ↗
Four of seven Patagonian maras () at a zoological institution developed acute neurologic signs that progressed to tetraparesis and death. All affected were young adult females (10 mon-5 yr old) that presented over 11 d....
Four of seven Patagonian maras () at a zoological institution developed acute neurologic signs that progressed to tetraparesis and death. All affected were young adult females (10 mon-5 yr old) that presented over 11 d. Clinical signs were rapidly progressive and unresponsive to supportive therapies. Two of the four individuals were found deceased 4 d after hospitalization. Two individuals were euthanized due to poor prognosis and decline after 6 and 8 d, respectively. Simultaneously, an additional mara developed mild and self-resolving clinical signs, including a kyphotic gait and paraparesis. On gross examination, there were widespread petechiae and ecchymoses of the skeletal muscle, myocardium, skin, pericardium, urinary bladder mucosa, and spinal cord. On histopathology, all animals had necrotizing myelitis and rhombencephalitis, with intranuclear viral inclusions in three individuals. Electron microscopy confirmed herpesviral replication and assembly complexes in neurons and oligodendrocytes. Consensus PCR performed on spinal cord, brainstem, or cerebellum revealed a novel most closely related to . The virus was amplified and sequenced and is referred to as Simplexvirus dolichotinealpha1. It is unknown whether this virus is endemic in Patagonian mara or whether it represents an aberrant host species. Clinicians should be aware of this virus and its potential to cause severe, rapidly progressive, life-threatening disease in this species.
FATAL ACUTE HEMOLYSIS FOLLOWING TRIAZOLE THERAPY IN AFRICAN PENGUINS ().
Patson CN, Elsmo EJ, Trepanier L … +11 more , Garner MM, Murray MJ, Bronson E, Clarke LL, Cox SK, Ossiboff RJ, Iredale ME, Miller BM, Waxman L, Littman E, Thurber MI
J Zoo Wildl Med · 2024 Jun · PMID 38875206 · Publisher ↗
Aspergillosis is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in penguins, with triazole antifungal drugs being commonly used for prophylaxis and treatment. This report describes 15 cases of fatal hemolysis associated with l...
Aspergillosis is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in penguins, with triazole antifungal drugs being commonly used for prophylaxis and treatment. This report describes 15 cases of fatal hemolysis associated with liquid itraconazole and voriconazole formulations administered to African penguins () from four institutions. All penguins underwent stressful events (e.g. relocation, induced molt) and were administered commercial liquid itraconazole formulations or compounded voriconazole liquid suspension. Observed clinical signs in affected penguins prior to death included hyporexia, weight loss, lethargy, dyspnea, red-tinged droppings, and obtunded mentation. Intra- and extravascular hemolysis and hemoglobinuric nephrosis were the primary pathologic manifestations on postmortem examination. The concentration-dependent hemolytic potentials of itraconazole, voriconazole, and commercial and compounded vehicle suspensions were evaluated in vitro by exposing chicken whole blood as a surrogate for penguin blood. Hemoglobin content in blood plasma was then measured by spectrophotometry. Neither itraconazole nor voriconazole alone induced hemolysis in vitro. The vehicle ingredients sorbitol and hydromellose induced hemolysis, but not at predicted plasma levels in chicken erythrocytes, suggesting neither the azole antifungals nor their major vehicles alone were likely to contribute to hemolysis in vivo in these penguins. Potential mechanisms of toxicosis include generation of an unmeasured reactive metabolite causing hemolysis, preexisting erythrocyte fragility, or species-specific differences in hemolytic thresholds that were not assessed in the chicken erythrocyte model. More research is needed on the potential for toxicosis of azole antifungal drugs and carrier molecules in this and other avian species.
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