Kathryn Gamble - Academia.edu (original) (raw)
Papers by Kathryn Gamble
Journal of Zoo and Wildlife Medicine, Sep 1, 2016
Hepatitis B virus causes horizontally transmitted infectious hepatopathy of primates and may prog... more Hepatitis B virus causes horizontally transmitted infectious hepatopathy of primates and may progress to hepatocellular carcinoma. Historically, a small number of chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes) living in accredited North American zoos have been confirmed with positive hepatitis B serology consistent with exposure. However, the overall status for this population and the interpretation of these individual test results have not been established previously. The current U.S. zoo-housed population (n ¼ 259) was assessed serologically for hepatitis B by surface protein antigen (HbsAg) and surface antibodies (anti-Hbs). Signalment, origin, current health status, history of liver disease, and hepatitis B vaccination history were obtained for each animal. Serologic status was measured directly in 86.5% (n ¼ 224) of these individuals, with 2.2% (n ¼ 5) of the study population determined to be chronically infected by positive HbsAg and negative anti-Hbs status. Additionally, 11.6% (n ¼ 26) of the directly measured population tested were HbsAg negative and anti-Hbs positive, which was indicative of viral exposure. No animals were determined to be acutely infected as HbsAg and anti-Hbs positive. Although these results demonstrated a relatively low prevalence of hepatitis B infection among these chimpanzees, the varied serologic results between institutions underscored the importance of routine serologic testing, especially at times of proposed transfers, and consideration of species vaccination protocols.
Journal of Zoo and Wildlife Medicine, Jul 7, 2023
Journal of Zoo and Wildlife Medicine, Sep 1, 2018
Infection by equine herpesvirus (EHV) strains (EHV-1, EHV-9) in ursid species, including polar be... more Infection by equine herpesvirus (EHV) strains (EHV-1, EHV-9) in ursid species, including polar bears (Ursus maritimus), has been associated with neurological disease and death. A serosurvey of captive exotic equid and polar bear populations in US Association of Zoos and Aquaria institutions was performed to determine the prevalence of EHV strains using quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) tests. Equid species surveyed included zebra (Equus spp.), Przewalski's wild horse (Equus ferus przewalskii), Persian onager (Equus hemionus), and Somali wild ass (Equus africanus somaliensis). A questionnaire regarding husbandry and medical variables was distributed to institutions housing polar bears. No polar bears tested positive for EHVs on qPCR of blood or nasal swabs. No exotic equids tested positive for EHVs on qPCR of blood, but two exotic equids (n ¼ 2/22; 9%) tested positive for EHVs on qPCR of nasal swabs. On ELISA, polar bears infrequently were positive for EHV-1 (n ¼ 5/38; 13%). Exotic equids were positive for EHV-4 on ELISA more frequently (n ¼ 30/43; 70%) than for EHV-1 (n ¼ 8/43; 19%). Nine institutions submitted samples from both exotic equids and polar bears, two of which had both exotic equids and polar bears positive for EHVs by ELISA. Each of these institutions reported that the polar bear and exotic equid exhibits were within 80 m of each other and that risk factors for fomite transmission between exhibits based on husbandry practices were present. One institution that did not house exotic equids had a polar bear test positive for EHV-1 on ELISA, with no history of exposure to exotic equids. Further testing of captive polar bears and exotic equids is recommended, as is modification of husbandry practices to limit exposure of polar bears to exotic equids.
PubMed, Mar 1, 1997
Mycotic infections in reptiles present as primary diseases and as secondary problems in healing w... more Mycotic infections in reptiles present as primary diseases and as secondary problems in healing wounds and immunocompromised animals. A triazole antimycotic drug, itraconazole is orally active and well distributed and is effective against many common fungal pathogens in humans. To assess plasma and tissues concentrations after oral dosing in reptiles, a 23.5-mg/kg (mean) itraconazole dose was administered orally with a standard food bolus once daily for 3 days to 10 groups of three or four spiny lizards (Sceloporus sp.). On days 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 9, 12, and 18, group samples of blood, liver, and muscle were collected. Microbiologic assay of itraconazole concentrations was performed on these pooled samples. Values from an elimination graph of the concentrations of area under the curve (377.21 micrograms.hr/ml) and terminal elimination half-life (48.3 hr) were obtained for itraconazole in spiny lizard plasma. Peak itraconazole concentration of 2.48 micrograms/ml was obtained in two half-lives and would be expected to achieve steady state at approximately 3.1 micrograms/ml plasma concentration in 10 days. Peak liver concentration of 4.27 micrograms/ml was attained in 89.95 hr. Muscle concentration did not exceed 0.63 micrograms/ml and declined by 97.3 hr. With this dosing regimen, itraconazole plasma and liver concentrations would persist within reported minimum inhibitory concentrations for many fungal pathogens for 6 days beyond the peak concentration.
Journal of herpetological medicine and surgery, 2005
ABSTRACT Captive refugia for four species of plethodontid salamanders were established. Following... more ABSTRACT Captive refugia for four species of plethodontid salamanders were established. Following this successful maintenance, two of the species presented with kyphosis. In one of these species (San Marcos salamander, Eurycea nana), microsporidial organisms within the epaxial musculature were identified in post-mortem histopathology and confirmed by polymerase chain reaction rDNA sequence as most closely similar to Encephalitozoon helium. However, ultrastructural analysis and further rDNA sequencing suggested a new species of Pleistophora. In these affected individuals, the microsporidial infection produced kyphosis resulting from inflammation and fibrosis of the epaxial musculature to the parasite.
Journal of Zoo and Wildlife Medicine, Sep 1, 2016
Cardiac disease is a common condition in captive primates, and multiple cases in Franc ois' langu... more Cardiac disease is a common condition in captive primates, and multiple cases in Franc ois' langurs (Trachypithecus francoisi) were noted on review of the Species Survival Plan studbook. To determine the prevalence of cardiac disease in this species, surveys were distributed to current and previous holding institutions (n ¼ 23) for the U.S. studbook population (n ¼ 216). After exclusion of stillbirths (n ¼ 48), animals less than 1 yr of age (n ¼ 8), and animals housed internationally (n ¼ 2), a study group (n ¼ 158) was identified for this analysis. Robust data was received for 98.7% (n ¼ 156) of the study group and antemortem and postmortem cardiac abnormalities were reported for 25.3% (n ¼ 40) of these animals. Eight animals were reported as medically managed for clinical cardiac disease, and three of these were alive at the time of survey. Six of 11 animals with radiographic cardiac silhouette enlargement antemortem were noted with cardiomegaly on postmortem examination. Of 102 deceased animals in the study group, four were identified with dilated cardiomyopathy, and varying degrees of myocardial fibrosis was observed in 18 animals. Langurs with cardiac fibrosis were found to be significantly older than langurs without cardiac fibrosis (P ¼ 0.003) and more commonly were male (P ¼ 0.036). Screening tests for cardiac disease, such as thoracic radiographs and echocardiography, are recommended to diagnose affected animals earlier, to monitor progression of disease, and to guide treatment, although they should be interpreted with caution because of apparent insensitivity when compared with pathologic results.
Journal of Zoo and Wildlife Medicine, Jun 1, 2015
Journal of herpetological medicine and surgery, 2005
Journal of Zoo and Wildlife Medicine, Sep 1, 2016
A wild-caught, 1.85 kg, adult female beaded lizard (Heloderma horridum horridum) was presented fo... more A wild-caught, 1.85 kg, adult female beaded lizard (Heloderma horridum horridum) was presented for two episodes of regurgitation 48–72 hr after eating in the preceding 6 wk. Between these regurgitation episodes, the lizard had refused five weekly meals of adult feeder mice. Previous medical history included the presence of frank blood in the urates once each in the two previous years, which had resolved without treatment. At presentation, physical examination revealed good body condition, adequate hydration, and normal abdominal palpation. Although survey radiographs revealed clear pulmonary fields, the abdominal contents were difficult to interpret due to osteodermal silhouettes. Abdominal ultrasound subsequently was performed. In the right cranial abdomen, a circular mass (4-cm diameter) was identified (Fig. 1). Liver and gall bladder had normal echogenicity. No ovarian follicular activity or yolk masses were observed. To aid interpretation, a gastrointestinal barium (Liquid E-Z-Paque, E-Z EM Canada Inc., Lake Success, New York 11042, USA; 7 ml p.o.) contrast series was instituted. Radiographs were imaged at 0, 15, 70, 205, and 340 min, then once daily for the 3 days with the final radiograph taken at 72 hr post gavage (Fig. 2). Review the provided figures and consider a list of differential diagnoses.
Journal of Zoo and Wildlife Medicine, Sep 1, 2011
An 18-yr-old male alpaca (Vicugna pacos) was reported as laterally recumbent and minimally respon... more An 18-yr-old male alpaca (Vicugna pacos) was reported as laterally recumbent and minimally responsive. Upon veterinary observation, the alpaca was found standing, bright, alert, and responsive with vital signs within normal limits. Body condition score was fair (2/5) which was consistent with previous observations. Overall, it appeared relatively normal and comfortable and had normal thoracic and gastrointestinal auscultation. Mucous membranes were pink and moist with capillary refill time less than 2 sec. Oral cavity exam was within normal limits and deep cervical palpation demonstrated no signs of discomfort or choke. Because the animal was geriatric and had a history of slow coat regrowth, the alpaca’s fiber coat had not been shorn for 3 yr and was overgrown. The alpacas’ winter diet consisted of free-choice alfalfa, herbivore grain (Mazuri ZNN, PMI Foods, St. Louis, Missouri 63166, USA; 155 g s.i.d.), small amounts of produce and other browse for enrichment, and a salt lick offered free-choice. This patient also received psyllium wafers (Metamucilt, The Procter & Gamble Co., Cincinnati, Ohio 45241, USA; ;6.8 g b.i.d.) due to chronically abnormal stool quality (soft) and a high-calorie nutritional supplement (Purina Athletet, Purina Mills, St. Louis, Missouri 63166, USA; 1 cup s.i.d.) due to chronically low body condition scoring. The keepers noted that the patient had not eaten his nutritional supplement the night before, which was unusual for this alpaca. It was also noted that the patient had been observed laterally recumbent more than usual over the preceding days. Blood was collected from the jugular vein and due to nonspecific signs of gastrointestinal discomfort the patient was given subcutaneous saline (Baxter Healthcare Systems, Deerfield, Illinois 60015, USA; 3 L in two doses over 3 hr), oral mineral oil (1 L), subcutaneous ceftiofur antibiotics (EXCEDEt, Pfizer Animal Health, New York, New York 10017, USA; 300 mg), and intramuscular Figure 1. Radiographic views of the abdomen of an 18-yr-old castrated alpaca (Vicugna pacos) with a history of intermittent apparent colic of approximately 1 mo duration. A. Lateral view. B. Dorsoventral view.
Veterinary Pathology, 2021
A newly described onygenalean fungus, Emydomyces testavorans, has been isolated from ulcerative s... more A newly described onygenalean fungus, Emydomyces testavorans, has been isolated from ulcerative shell and skin lesions of freshwater aquatic chelonians. To investigate the shell lesions associated with infection and determine if any lesional features were unique to E. testavorans, tissues from turtles housed in zoological institutions ( n = 45) in the United States and free-living turtles ( n = 5) submitted for diagnostic biopsy or necropsy were examined. Free-living turtles were from geographically distinct habitats in Florida ( n = 1) and Washington ( n = 4) at the time of sampling. Histologic shell sections were evaluated for the presence or absence of specific lesional features. Infection with E. testavorans was evaluated in all cases by screening GMS (Grocott-Gomori’s methenamine silver)-stained histologic sections for the presence of morphologically consistent fungi and by quantitative PCR (polymerase chain reaction) on representative frozen tissue or formalin-fixed paraffin-e...
Veterinary Pathology, 2019
During a 19-month period, 5 smooth green snakes ( Opheodrys vernalis) maintained as an ex situ co... more During a 19-month period, 5 smooth green snakes ( Opheodrys vernalis) maintained as an ex situ conservation colony presented with rapid clinical progression of locally invasive oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma. All 5 originated from the same wild source and were housed together or in close proximity. An infectious cause was considered likely, and nested conventional polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and in situ hybridization confirmed the presence of a novel alphaherpesvirus, Opheodrys herpesvirus 1, in the neoplastic tissue in 4 of the 5 snakes. Retrospective screening of previously submitted smooth green snakes by in situ hybridization did not detect virus in prior submissions from the colony. This report documents molecular characterization of an ophidian herpesvirus as well as colocalization of its viral nucleic acid with neoplastic transformation in snakes.
Journal of Zoo and Wildlife Medicine, 2022
Abstract: Effective management of articular injuries in avian species is a known and frequent cha... more Abstract: Effective management of articular injuries in avian species is a known and frequent challenge. Potential treatments include many domestic animal therapeutics, such as Adequan®, which is used widely in dogs and horses. However, clinical reports have described hemorrhagic diatheses in a variety of avian species treated with varying doses and administration frequency of Adequan. This study investigated the hypocoagulability associated with parenteral administration of Adequan in avian species. Following a pilot dosing study in domestic chickens (Gallus gallus), citrated plasma from Chilean flamingos (Phoenicopterus chilensis) (n = 42) was spiked with Adequan to represent three dosing regimens (1 mg/kg, 5 mg/kg, 10 mg/kg). The fibrinogen content of plasma samples was determined and thrombin-clotting times (TCTs) were compared for the untreated (control) and spiked flamingo samples. The TCT for control and 1-mg/kg spiked plasma were not significantly different; however, both 5 mg/kg and 10 mg/kg spiked samples demonstrated significantly prolonged TCT (P-value < 0.0001) indicating hypocoagulability. These results support that Adequan given parenterally at 1 mg/kg can be utilized safely in clinical case management as an adjunctive treatment for osteoarthritis in flamingos and potentially other avian species.
Journal of Zoo and Wildlife Medicine, Sep 2, 2009
Journal of Zoo and Wildlife Medicine, 2005
Multiple cestode cysts identified as Taenia serialis were present in the bodies of two wild-caugh... more Multiple cestode cysts identified as Taenia serialis were present in the bodies of two wild-caught African giant pouched rats (Cricetomys gambianus) at necropsy. This rodent species can be an intermediate host for this parasite. Exotic rodents kept as pets in the United States may be affected.
Journal of Zoo and Wildlife Medicine, Sep 1, 2016
Hepatitis B virus causes horizontally transmitted infectious hepatopathy of primates and may prog... more Hepatitis B virus causes horizontally transmitted infectious hepatopathy of primates and may progress to hepatocellular carcinoma. Historically, a small number of chimpanzees (Pan troglodytes) living in accredited North American zoos have been confirmed with positive hepatitis B serology consistent with exposure. However, the overall status for this population and the interpretation of these individual test results have not been established previously. The current U.S. zoo-housed population (n ¼ 259) was assessed serologically for hepatitis B by surface protein antigen (HbsAg) and surface antibodies (anti-Hbs). Signalment, origin, current health status, history of liver disease, and hepatitis B vaccination history were obtained for each animal. Serologic status was measured directly in 86.5% (n ¼ 224) of these individuals, with 2.2% (n ¼ 5) of the study population determined to be chronically infected by positive HbsAg and negative anti-Hbs status. Additionally, 11.6% (n ¼ 26) of the directly measured population tested were HbsAg negative and anti-Hbs positive, which was indicative of viral exposure. No animals were determined to be acutely infected as HbsAg and anti-Hbs positive. Although these results demonstrated a relatively low prevalence of hepatitis B infection among these chimpanzees, the varied serologic results between institutions underscored the importance of routine serologic testing, especially at times of proposed transfers, and consideration of species vaccination protocols.
Journal of Zoo and Wildlife Medicine, Jul 7, 2023
Journal of Zoo and Wildlife Medicine, Sep 1, 2018
Infection by equine herpesvirus (EHV) strains (EHV-1, EHV-9) in ursid species, including polar be... more Infection by equine herpesvirus (EHV) strains (EHV-1, EHV-9) in ursid species, including polar bears (Ursus maritimus), has been associated with neurological disease and death. A serosurvey of captive exotic equid and polar bear populations in US Association of Zoos and Aquaria institutions was performed to determine the prevalence of EHV strains using quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) tests. Equid species surveyed included zebra (Equus spp.), Przewalski's wild horse (Equus ferus przewalskii), Persian onager (Equus hemionus), and Somali wild ass (Equus africanus somaliensis). A questionnaire regarding husbandry and medical variables was distributed to institutions housing polar bears. No polar bears tested positive for EHVs on qPCR of blood or nasal swabs. No exotic equids tested positive for EHVs on qPCR of blood, but two exotic equids (n ¼ 2/22; 9%) tested positive for EHVs on qPCR of nasal swabs. On ELISA, polar bears infrequently were positive for EHV-1 (n ¼ 5/38; 13%). Exotic equids were positive for EHV-4 on ELISA more frequently (n ¼ 30/43; 70%) than for EHV-1 (n ¼ 8/43; 19%). Nine institutions submitted samples from both exotic equids and polar bears, two of which had both exotic equids and polar bears positive for EHVs by ELISA. Each of these institutions reported that the polar bear and exotic equid exhibits were within 80 m of each other and that risk factors for fomite transmission between exhibits based on husbandry practices were present. One institution that did not house exotic equids had a polar bear test positive for EHV-1 on ELISA, with no history of exposure to exotic equids. Further testing of captive polar bears and exotic equids is recommended, as is modification of husbandry practices to limit exposure of polar bears to exotic equids.
PubMed, Mar 1, 1997
Mycotic infections in reptiles present as primary diseases and as secondary problems in healing w... more Mycotic infections in reptiles present as primary diseases and as secondary problems in healing wounds and immunocompromised animals. A triazole antimycotic drug, itraconazole is orally active and well distributed and is effective against many common fungal pathogens in humans. To assess plasma and tissues concentrations after oral dosing in reptiles, a 23.5-mg/kg (mean) itraconazole dose was administered orally with a standard food bolus once daily for 3 days to 10 groups of three or four spiny lizards (Sceloporus sp.). On days 0, 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 9, 12, and 18, group samples of blood, liver, and muscle were collected. Microbiologic assay of itraconazole concentrations was performed on these pooled samples. Values from an elimination graph of the concentrations of area under the curve (377.21 micrograms.hr/ml) and terminal elimination half-life (48.3 hr) were obtained for itraconazole in spiny lizard plasma. Peak itraconazole concentration of 2.48 micrograms/ml was obtained in two half-lives and would be expected to achieve steady state at approximately 3.1 micrograms/ml plasma concentration in 10 days. Peak liver concentration of 4.27 micrograms/ml was attained in 89.95 hr. Muscle concentration did not exceed 0.63 micrograms/ml and declined by 97.3 hr. With this dosing regimen, itraconazole plasma and liver concentrations would persist within reported minimum inhibitory concentrations for many fungal pathogens for 6 days beyond the peak concentration.
Journal of herpetological medicine and surgery, 2005
ABSTRACT Captive refugia for four species of plethodontid salamanders were established. Following... more ABSTRACT Captive refugia for four species of plethodontid salamanders were established. Following this successful maintenance, two of the species presented with kyphosis. In one of these species (San Marcos salamander, Eurycea nana), microsporidial organisms within the epaxial musculature were identified in post-mortem histopathology and confirmed by polymerase chain reaction rDNA sequence as most closely similar to Encephalitozoon helium. However, ultrastructural analysis and further rDNA sequencing suggested a new species of Pleistophora. In these affected individuals, the microsporidial infection produced kyphosis resulting from inflammation and fibrosis of the epaxial musculature to the parasite.
Journal of Zoo and Wildlife Medicine, Sep 1, 2016
Cardiac disease is a common condition in captive primates, and multiple cases in Franc ois' langu... more Cardiac disease is a common condition in captive primates, and multiple cases in Franc ois' langurs (Trachypithecus francoisi) were noted on review of the Species Survival Plan studbook. To determine the prevalence of cardiac disease in this species, surveys were distributed to current and previous holding institutions (n ¼ 23) for the U.S. studbook population (n ¼ 216). After exclusion of stillbirths (n ¼ 48), animals less than 1 yr of age (n ¼ 8), and animals housed internationally (n ¼ 2), a study group (n ¼ 158) was identified for this analysis. Robust data was received for 98.7% (n ¼ 156) of the study group and antemortem and postmortem cardiac abnormalities were reported for 25.3% (n ¼ 40) of these animals. Eight animals were reported as medically managed for clinical cardiac disease, and three of these were alive at the time of survey. Six of 11 animals with radiographic cardiac silhouette enlargement antemortem were noted with cardiomegaly on postmortem examination. Of 102 deceased animals in the study group, four were identified with dilated cardiomyopathy, and varying degrees of myocardial fibrosis was observed in 18 animals. Langurs with cardiac fibrosis were found to be significantly older than langurs without cardiac fibrosis (P ¼ 0.003) and more commonly were male (P ¼ 0.036). Screening tests for cardiac disease, such as thoracic radiographs and echocardiography, are recommended to diagnose affected animals earlier, to monitor progression of disease, and to guide treatment, although they should be interpreted with caution because of apparent insensitivity when compared with pathologic results.
Journal of Zoo and Wildlife Medicine, Jun 1, 2015
Journal of herpetological medicine and surgery, 2005
Journal of Zoo and Wildlife Medicine, Sep 1, 2016
A wild-caught, 1.85 kg, adult female beaded lizard (Heloderma horridum horridum) was presented fo... more A wild-caught, 1.85 kg, adult female beaded lizard (Heloderma horridum horridum) was presented for two episodes of regurgitation 48–72 hr after eating in the preceding 6 wk. Between these regurgitation episodes, the lizard had refused five weekly meals of adult feeder mice. Previous medical history included the presence of frank blood in the urates once each in the two previous years, which had resolved without treatment. At presentation, physical examination revealed good body condition, adequate hydration, and normal abdominal palpation. Although survey radiographs revealed clear pulmonary fields, the abdominal contents were difficult to interpret due to osteodermal silhouettes. Abdominal ultrasound subsequently was performed. In the right cranial abdomen, a circular mass (4-cm diameter) was identified (Fig. 1). Liver and gall bladder had normal echogenicity. No ovarian follicular activity or yolk masses were observed. To aid interpretation, a gastrointestinal barium (Liquid E-Z-Paque, E-Z EM Canada Inc., Lake Success, New York 11042, USA; 7 ml p.o.) contrast series was instituted. Radiographs were imaged at 0, 15, 70, 205, and 340 min, then once daily for the 3 days with the final radiograph taken at 72 hr post gavage (Fig. 2). Review the provided figures and consider a list of differential diagnoses.
Journal of Zoo and Wildlife Medicine, Sep 1, 2011
An 18-yr-old male alpaca (Vicugna pacos) was reported as laterally recumbent and minimally respon... more An 18-yr-old male alpaca (Vicugna pacos) was reported as laterally recumbent and minimally responsive. Upon veterinary observation, the alpaca was found standing, bright, alert, and responsive with vital signs within normal limits. Body condition score was fair (2/5) which was consistent with previous observations. Overall, it appeared relatively normal and comfortable and had normal thoracic and gastrointestinal auscultation. Mucous membranes were pink and moist with capillary refill time less than 2 sec. Oral cavity exam was within normal limits and deep cervical palpation demonstrated no signs of discomfort or choke. Because the animal was geriatric and had a history of slow coat regrowth, the alpaca’s fiber coat had not been shorn for 3 yr and was overgrown. The alpacas’ winter diet consisted of free-choice alfalfa, herbivore grain (Mazuri ZNN, PMI Foods, St. Louis, Missouri 63166, USA; 155 g s.i.d.), small amounts of produce and other browse for enrichment, and a salt lick offered free-choice. This patient also received psyllium wafers (Metamucilt, The Procter & Gamble Co., Cincinnati, Ohio 45241, USA; ;6.8 g b.i.d.) due to chronically abnormal stool quality (soft) and a high-calorie nutritional supplement (Purina Athletet, Purina Mills, St. Louis, Missouri 63166, USA; 1 cup s.i.d.) due to chronically low body condition scoring. The keepers noted that the patient had not eaten his nutritional supplement the night before, which was unusual for this alpaca. It was also noted that the patient had been observed laterally recumbent more than usual over the preceding days. Blood was collected from the jugular vein and due to nonspecific signs of gastrointestinal discomfort the patient was given subcutaneous saline (Baxter Healthcare Systems, Deerfield, Illinois 60015, USA; 3 L in two doses over 3 hr), oral mineral oil (1 L), subcutaneous ceftiofur antibiotics (EXCEDEt, Pfizer Animal Health, New York, New York 10017, USA; 300 mg), and intramuscular Figure 1. Radiographic views of the abdomen of an 18-yr-old castrated alpaca (Vicugna pacos) with a history of intermittent apparent colic of approximately 1 mo duration. A. Lateral view. B. Dorsoventral view.
Veterinary Pathology, 2021
A newly described onygenalean fungus, Emydomyces testavorans, has been isolated from ulcerative s... more A newly described onygenalean fungus, Emydomyces testavorans, has been isolated from ulcerative shell and skin lesions of freshwater aquatic chelonians. To investigate the shell lesions associated with infection and determine if any lesional features were unique to E. testavorans, tissues from turtles housed in zoological institutions ( n = 45) in the United States and free-living turtles ( n = 5) submitted for diagnostic biopsy or necropsy were examined. Free-living turtles were from geographically distinct habitats in Florida ( n = 1) and Washington ( n = 4) at the time of sampling. Histologic shell sections were evaluated for the presence or absence of specific lesional features. Infection with E. testavorans was evaluated in all cases by screening GMS (Grocott-Gomori’s methenamine silver)-stained histologic sections for the presence of morphologically consistent fungi and by quantitative PCR (polymerase chain reaction) on representative frozen tissue or formalin-fixed paraffin-e...
Veterinary Pathology, 2019
During a 19-month period, 5 smooth green snakes ( Opheodrys vernalis) maintained as an ex situ co... more During a 19-month period, 5 smooth green snakes ( Opheodrys vernalis) maintained as an ex situ conservation colony presented with rapid clinical progression of locally invasive oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma. All 5 originated from the same wild source and were housed together or in close proximity. An infectious cause was considered likely, and nested conventional polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and in situ hybridization confirmed the presence of a novel alphaherpesvirus, Opheodrys herpesvirus 1, in the neoplastic tissue in 4 of the 5 snakes. Retrospective screening of previously submitted smooth green snakes by in situ hybridization did not detect virus in prior submissions from the colony. This report documents molecular characterization of an ophidian herpesvirus as well as colocalization of its viral nucleic acid with neoplastic transformation in snakes.
Journal of Zoo and Wildlife Medicine, 2022
Abstract: Effective management of articular injuries in avian species is a known and frequent cha... more Abstract: Effective management of articular injuries in avian species is a known and frequent challenge. Potential treatments include many domestic animal therapeutics, such as Adequan®, which is used widely in dogs and horses. However, clinical reports have described hemorrhagic diatheses in a variety of avian species treated with varying doses and administration frequency of Adequan. This study investigated the hypocoagulability associated with parenteral administration of Adequan in avian species. Following a pilot dosing study in domestic chickens (Gallus gallus), citrated plasma from Chilean flamingos (Phoenicopterus chilensis) (n = 42) was spiked with Adequan to represent three dosing regimens (1 mg/kg, 5 mg/kg, 10 mg/kg). The fibrinogen content of plasma samples was determined and thrombin-clotting times (TCTs) were compared for the untreated (control) and spiked flamingo samples. The TCT for control and 1-mg/kg spiked plasma were not significantly different; however, both 5 mg/kg and 10 mg/kg spiked samples demonstrated significantly prolonged TCT (P-value < 0.0001) indicating hypocoagulability. These results support that Adequan given parenterally at 1 mg/kg can be utilized safely in clinical case management as an adjunctive treatment for osteoarthritis in flamingos and potentially other avian species.
Journal of Zoo and Wildlife Medicine, Sep 2, 2009
Journal of Zoo and Wildlife Medicine, 2005
Multiple cestode cysts identified as Taenia serialis were present in the bodies of two wild-caugh... more Multiple cestode cysts identified as Taenia serialis were present in the bodies of two wild-caught African giant pouched rats (Cricetomys gambianus) at necropsy. This rodent species can be an intermediate host for this parasite. Exotic rodents kept as pets in the United States may be affected.