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, n = 50), spanning fi ve species across four gibbon genera: eastern hoolock ( Hoolock leuconedys), Javan ( Hylobates moloch), pileated ( Hylobates pileatus), siamang ( Symphalangus syndactylus), and white-cheeked ( Nomascus leucogenys). Preliminary reference intervals (n = 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 (n = 38) and abnormal (n = 12) individuals, significant differences were observed in the albumin/globulin ratio (P = 0.0003), prealbumin (P = 0.0345), and albumin (P = 0.0094), with abnormal individuals exhibiting statistically significantly higher c-globulins (P = 0.0224), SAA (P = 0.0001), and CRP (P = 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 fi rst 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.

The objective of this study was to evaluate the pharmacokinetic properties of a single dose of ceftiofur crystalline-free acid (CCFA) in whooping cranes (Grus americana). Ceftiofur crystalline-free acid is a long-acting, injectable, third-generation cephalosporin antibiotic drug. A preliminary study evaluated CCFA administered intramuscularly in the pectoral or thigh muscle at 20 or 30 mg/kg IM to a single adult whooping crane for each dose. On the basis of these data, a dose of 30 mg/kg IM of CCFA was administered to five additional whooping cranes, and blood was collected at various time points from 0 to 288 h. Pharmacokinetic parameters for ceftiofur equivalents were determined and reached concentrations above minimum inhibitory concentrations of various bacteria in other avian species (>1 µg/ml) for at least 96 h in all birds, and for 144 h in two birds. From these findings, ceftiofur crystalline-free acid appears to be a long-acting antibiotic option for whooping cranes and may be dosed every 96 h; however, additional multidose studies are needed.

A 12-year-old male eclectus parrot (Eclectus roratus) was referred for evaluation of coelomic distention. Computed tomography and blood work revealed coelomic effusion with free coelomic mineral-attenuating material and elevations in the bile acids and aspartate aminotransferase activity, respectively. Coelomic effusion was consistent with macrophagic inflammation with abundant intracellular lipids. Initial treatment with meloxicam resulted in minimal patient improvement. Disseminated xanthogranulomatous inflammation was suspected based on imaging and diagnostic laboratory results, which were consistent with those previously reported. Biopsy samples of liver tissue and intracoelomic masses confirmed this diagnosis. Treatment was initiated with prednisolone 1 mg/kg/d for 6 months, followed by 0.5 mg/kg/d for 3 months. Clinical improvement was assessed based on owner evaluation, plasma bile acid concentrations, and repeated computed tomographic scans. After 2 months of treatment, the owner reported improved behavior and appetite; this persisted throughout treatment and when the bird was reexamined 17 months following the cessation of steroid therapy. Bile acid concentrations were normal 10 months after the prednisolone therapy was discontinued. Diagnostic imaging showed minimal coelomic effusion 10 months after the last prednisolone dose was administered, with improved ventilation of the air sacs and static to improved dystrophic mineral foci. This report describes the antemortem diagnosis and treatment of disseminated coelomic xanthogranulomatous disease in a psittacine species, with an observed measurable therapeutic response.

OBJECTIVE:To describe the clinical presentation of a dog with hemolytic anemia secondary to zinc toxicosis after 1-week use of "max strength" 40% diaper rash cream.CASE SUMMARY:A 2-year-old female neutered Maltese presented for vomiting, lethargy, pigmenturia, and pale mucous membranes. "Max Strength" zinc oxide cream had been applied to the patient daily for a week prior to presentation. Clinical examination revealed light pink to pale mucous membranes and tachycardia. Hematology demonstrated large numbers of spherocytes and a strongly regenerative anemia. Plasma zinc concentrations were markedly increased. A diagnosis of hemolytic anemia secondary to subacute zinc toxicosis was made and supportive therapy was instigated. The patient ultimately recovered uneventfully. Acute or subacute zinc toxicosis resulting in hemolytic anemia is not frequently observed, and this case was also unusual in that the zinc source was diaper cream, which historically has been thought to require very large quantities to cause toxicosis.NEW OR UNIQUE INFORMATION PROVIDED:To the authors' knowledge, there is only one previously reported case of hemolytic anemia secondary to diaper cream use in a hospital setting but no previous reports involving toxicosis secondary to prolonged application at home by owners. Most commercial diaper creams contain zinc oxide, which historically was thought to have poor gastrointestinal absorption and would require a large quantity to cause significant toxicosis and hemolytic anemia. Moreover, this case emphasizes the potential risks associated with zinc oxide cream use, the significance of client education if using these creams, as well as the importance of history in elucidating the underlying cause of hemolytic anemia.

CASE DESCRIPTION:A male Major Mitchell's cockatoo (Lophochroa leadbeateri) of unknown age presented with an ulcerated mass on the ventral tail caudodorsal to the cloaca.CLINICAL FINDINGS:An impression smear of the mass showed spindle cell atypia. Multiple biopsies were submitted for histopathology with inconclusive results. A CT scan revealed a soft tissue mass causing compression of the cloacal lumen. The patient underwent surgical debulking, and a core of the mass was submitted again for histopathology, which reported it as fibrosarcoma.TREATMENT AND OUTCOME:Under repeated general isoflurane gas anesthesia, the patient received a course of definitive radiation therapy totaling 60 Gy and divided in 3 Gy X 20 fractions. By treatment completion, the lesion had decreased in size with necrotic debris on the surface. Surrounding tissues appeared healthy and no adverse effects were observed. As of 1.5 years post-treatment, the mass appears completely healed with no signs of reoccurrence.CLINICAL RELEVANCE:This case suggests that radiation therapy with this protocol could be an effective treatment option for fibrosarcoma in avian species.

This report describes a 4-year-old, male, intact African pygmy hedgehog (Atelerix albiventris) that was presented for evaluation of left-sided exophthalmos with swelling and protrusion of the nictitating membrane. A suspected neoplasm, presumed to originate from the Harderian gland, was identified in the ventromedial orbit in association with the nictitating membrane. The mass was surgically removed and diagnosed as an acinic cell carcinoma, but reoccurred 5 months post-operatively. Humane euthanasia was elected, and a necropsy with histopathology confirmed the initial diagnosis of acinic cell carcinoma. This case suggests that acinic cell carcinoma should be on the differential list for a non-painful orbital mass in the African pygmy hedgehog.

A 27-year-old female African grey parrot (Psittacus erithacus) presented as a referral for surgical removal of an enlarged uropygial gland that was first observed by the owner 6 months prior. Antibiotic therapy was attempted by the referring veterinarian with limited treatment response. No abnormalities were noted in the results of a complete blood count and plasma biochemistry panel. Computed tomographic imaging of the parrot showed a left-sided uropygial gland mass with no evidence of metastasis or invasion into the underlying soft tissue or bone. The uropygial gland was surgically excised in an attempt to obtain clean margins devoid of tumor cells. Histopathological evaluation of the submitted tissue was suggestive of an intraluminal uropygial gland epithelioma. Intraluminal epithelioma should be considered as a differential diagnosis in psittacine species that are presented with an asymmetrically enlarged uropygial gland.

Nannizziopsis guarroi is a highly pathogenic fungal organism affecting various lizard species which often manifests as cutaneous disease. Pulmonary involvement with Nannizziopsis infections has rarely been reported in reptiles. An 8-year-old, female green iguana was presented for clinical evaluation following a chronic history of upper and lower respiratory tract signs and fistula formation in the right maxilla communicating with the oral cavity. Pulmonary infiltrates were noted on serial computed tomography scans and repeated baseline bloodwork was unremarkable. Based on a poor response to chronic antibiotic therapy, rigid pulmonoscopy was elected. The lung parenchyma contained multifocal clusters of yellow-brown ovoid masses. Biopsy of the lesions revealed granulomas with intralesional fungal hyphae. Fungal culture had no growth but panfungal PCR identified the organism Nannizziopsis guarroi. The iguana failed to completely recover postprocedure and died despite further supportive care. Computed tomography helped determine the extent of pulmonary pathology but pulmonoscopy, lung biopsy and molecular diagnostic methods were ultimately required to obtain a definitive diagnosis. Nannizziopsis fungal pneumonia should be considered a differential diagnosis in squamates with respiratory clinical signs.

Background: Ventral abdominal herniation (with or without oviduct involvement) in avian species is most commonly seen in reproductively active females. Case Description: A 2.5-year-old female budgerigar (Melopsittacus undulatus) presented for a ventral tail, 2.0 cm in diameter, mass extending between the cloaca and the tail base. Upon surgical evaluation, the mass was determined to be a herniation of the oviduct and later confirmed with histopathology. A salpingohysterectomy and closure of the body wall defect was performed, and the patient recovered well. Postoperative radiography revealed no evidence of retained egg or other obvious pathology to determine an underlying cause. Conclusions and Case Relevance: Lateral body wall herniations with involvement of the oviduct has been reported, but an undertail body wall herniation involving the oviduct has not been previously reported based on the literature search, and should be considered in birds presented with similar lesions in this anatomical location.

In this study, adult intact male and female ( n = 10) naked mole rats ( Heterocephalus glaber ) were anesthetized by using a combination of ketamine (20 mg/kg IM), and alfaxalone (4.0 mg/kg IM). Induction and recovery times were recorded. Vital parameters, including heart rate, respiratory rate, and reflexes, were monitored every 5 min during the anesthetic period. Anesthetic induction was smooth and rapid. Induction time was significantly longer in male rats (median, 325 s; range, 180 to 385 s) than in females (median, 145 s; range, 118 to 180 s). In addition, overall duration of loss of righting reflex was shorter in male mole rats (median, 50 min; range, 36 to 65 min) than females (median, 70 min; range, 60 to 85 min). Males largely had intact withdrawal reflexes, whereas females showed variable loss of both forelimb and hindlimb withdrawal reflexes. Neither recovery time (mean ± 1 SD, 16 ± 13 min) nor vital parameters differed between sexes. None of animals showed any anesthesia-related adverse responses. According to these findings, intramuscular AK is a safe and effective protocol that provides brief, light anesthesia in male naked mole rats and deeper anesthesia in females. We recommend adding analgesics when this AK protocol is used for pain-inducing or invasive procedures, and further studies evaluating higher doses and different combinations are indicated.

American flamingos (Phoenicopterus ruber) are commonly kept in zoological collections and are important in research, conservation awareness, and education. Hematology and biochemistry parameters are reported to change with age in many long-lived species. A retrospective analysis of recorded data (147 samples of PCV/TS and plasma biochemistry) from n = 16 (F = 7, M = 9) zoo-kept flamingos (1–16 years) was performed. Blood samples were collected as part of routine annual health evaluation over the course of 11 years. The effect of aging and sex on biochemical analytes in individuals over time was assessed. Most analytes did not differ between sexes. Males had higher TS, and lower sodium, chloride, and ALT concentrations when controlling for age. The only variable with a significant sex × age interaction was ALP, which only changed with age in females. Most analytes did not differ with age. PCV, UN, and Na:K ratio increased, while potassium, ALP, and uric acid concentrations decreased with each year of life. While aging influenced select biomarkers in the current study, the clinical significance has yet to be determined, and further studies including a larger age range are recommended.

A 3-week old infant Eastern Hoolock gibbon (Hoolock leuconedys) underwent successful anesthesia and surgical repair of a right inguinal hernia and right testicle removal. The young gibbon recovered well post operatively and was later reintroduced to his family at six months of age. This is the first report of this condition and its management which can aid other clinicians treating neonatal gibbons with a similar condition.