Seminars in Avian and Exotic Pet Medicine最新文献

Thymomas are relatively rare tumors that have been reported in a number of rabbits. Clinical signs may be nebulous or a result of the effect of the tumor on the occupied space. Diagnosis is made by aspiration cytology or tissue biopsy and histopathology. Treatment options for thymomas in people and animals include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. Surgery appears to offer the best chance for cure and is recommended when possible; however, radiation therapy may also be effective. Chemotherapy alone appears to have limited utility, at least in the rabbit. This article will discuss these treatment options and their use in rabbits with thymoma, both as reported in the literature and based on our experience.

African hedgehogs are increasingly popular pets: they are easy to care for, interesting, and interactive. Although their expected lifespan is only 1 to 4 years in the wild, sound nutritional advice and high-quality veterinary care have lengthened the captive lifespan of these animals. Unfortunately, multiple reviews document that the geriatric hedgehog, although only 3 to 5 years old, is predisposed to neoplastic disease. This article reviews previously reported neoplasms of the hedgehog by system; 24 additional cases are also described. Typical signalment, clinical signs, and tumor behavior are outlined, and appropriate diagnostics and treatment options are discussed where possible. The intent of this review is to provide the practitioner with a relevant and practical guide to the management of neoplasia in the African hedgehog.

Abstract

Emergency resuscitation of ferrets can be done using medications and equipment readily available in small animal hospitals. Cardiopulmonary resuscitation mechanics in the ferret are similar to those in other companion mammals. This article reviews methods of cardiac massage, intubation and ventilation, fluid support, and drugs and dosages appropriate for use in the ferret emergency patient. A presurgical preparation regimen to prevent cardiac arrest and anesthetic and post anesthetic complications is also presented. Treatments for resuscitation of the ferret in vaccine induced anaphylaxis (vaccine reaction) are also discussed. The information presented is based on the author’s experience and current clinical procedures in pet ferret practice.

Abstract

Amphibians are being kept in increasing numbers as pets and in zoological and research collections. As we learn more about the diseases that affect these animals, our knowledge of emergency medicine has grown. When faced with an amphibian emergency, the rapid collection of a history, appropriate selection and execution of diagnostics, and immediate administration of critical care will increase the likelihood of a successful outcome. Common emergency presentations of amphibians also will be reviewed, including red-leg syndrome, edema, emaciation, gastrointestinal obstruction and prolapse, neurological disease, and trauma.

Tracheostomy is a routine procedure used in human medicine to maintain a patent airway in cases of severe tracheal trauma, neoplasia, congenital abnormalities, or disease processes requiring long-term mechanical ventilation. Tracheostomy has been documented in veterinary medicine, including a single case in a prairie dog. However, use of this procedure in birds had not been previously described. The following report describes similar permanent tracheostomy procedures in two parrots, with slightly differing outcomes, and illustrates that tracheostomy can be considered in avian patients with nonresolving obstructive tracheal disease.

There are numerous chelonian species that arise from a diverse array of habitats. Chelonians are long lived and slow to reach sexual maturity, making them extremely vulnerable to human impacts on their habitat and populations. Unusual anatomic and physiological features, such as the shell and being ectothermic, make chelonians medically challenging for the veterinarian. This article presents information on the medical evaluation and stabilization of critically ill and injured chelonian patients presented to the emergency clinician. History taking, performing a physical examination, recommended diagnostic testing, fluid and transfusion therapy, cardiopulmonary resuscitation principles, nutritional support, hospital environment, and therapeutic agents recommended for the emergency and critical care of chelonians are reviewed. Differential diagnoses are presented for a variety of conditions encountered by the emergency clinician for marine turtles, tortoises, freshwater aquatic turtles, and terrapins. There are significant differences in the disease problems encountered by captive and free-ranging specimens. This review will be useful for the veterinarian working in private practice, zoological or aquarium medicine, and wildlife rehabilitation.