Arsenicum album as a treatment for pneumonia in snakes: serial cases

Abstract Introduction: two Python bivittatus were received at Project Selva Viva, zoo in Taubaté, Brazil, both presented respiratory noises and oro-nasal discharge. In view of the fact, a thoracic ultrasonographic examination was performed for evaluation on February 25, 2022, which diagnosed the presence of multiple vertical hyperechoic artefacts emerging from the pleural line, coalescing in some of the fields evaluated, and the presence of a hypoechoic structure located in the subpleural region. Another serpent, a species of Boa constrictor, arrived in same zoo, unhistorical individual, collected from an apprehension, showed a low body score and during a thoracic ultrasonographic evaluation, carried out on April 1, 2022, was also found to have B waves emerging from the line pleural. Methodology: Authorized story, by responsible of zoo. In all the patients, homeopathic therapy was initiated with 2 globules of Arsenicum album 30 cH/BID, after diagnosis of the respiratory condition by ultrasonographic examination, the medication was chosen through the similarity with the symptoms. Accompaniment with ultrassoms of Python bivittatus foram carried out weekly for accompaniment of the respiratory picture. Results: On March 04, it was observed that both coils showed a reduction in respiratory noise and were more active. Ars 30 cH was maintained BID. On March 25, both presented significant improvement in ultrasound, which made visible only lines A, compatible with a healthy lung, in both individuals and the treatment was suspended. The treatment of the Boa constrictor was started on April 1. On April 8, ultrasonographic examination was performed, which only observed lines A, indicating improvement of the picture. Conclusion: Given these results, it is considered that the homeopathic treatment is an option to be considered not treating the respiratory condition in snakes, however, there is variation in the duration of the therapy through the stage and chronicity of the disease.