Computed tomography imaging of a leopard tortoise (Geochelone pardalis pardalis) with confirmed pulmonary fibrosis: a case report

Respiratory Diseases of Snakes

Respiratory abnormalities in snakes are a common clinical presentation in zoologic medical practice. There are often compounding issues involving translocation and substandard husbandry that can predispose to infectious and noninfectious causes of respiratory disease. Endoscopic evaluation of the respiratory tract and the collection of biopsies for histopathology and microbiology is preferred but may only be available from the specialist. Alternatively, transtracheal lavage for cytology and microbiology is a practical method for most practitioners. A variety of bacterial, fungal, viral, and parasitic infections, as well as noninfectious diseases have been reported. Accurate diagnosis dictates specific therapy, which increases the likelihood of successful treatment.

Respiratory Disorders in Chelonians

"Respiratory tract disease in chelonians can be difficult to treat and as such proper diagnostics are paramount. Infectious agents that can affect the respiratory tract of chelonians include viral, bacterial, fungal, and parasitic organisms. Noninfectious diseases can also develop. Because chelonians lack a proper diaphragm, changes in size of celomic organs can cause compression of the respiratory system. These conditions result in clinical signs that could be attributed to the respiratory system, such as open-mouth breathing. In this article, anatomy, physiology, and current standards for diagnostics and treatments of major diseases of the respiratory tract in chelonians are discussed."

Diagnostic Imaging of the Respiratory Tract of the Reptile Patient

Detailed information is given about technique and image interpretation of radiography and computed tomography of the respiratory tract in reptiles. MRI and sonography are mentioned when supporting differential diagnoses. Various diseases and imaging pitfalls are described with multiple figures and graphics. One focus is on lung compression in chelonians, which may be misinterpreted as pneumonia in dyspneic patients without the help of imaging tools.