Clostridium perfringens Infection in a Neotropical Otter
Author Information
Author(s): Beatriz Araujo dos Santos, Bruna Emely Pereira Barbosa, Arthur Carlos da Trindade Alves, Bernardo de Paula Miranda, Gabrielly Ferreira Santos, Daniel de Almeida Balthazar
Primary Institution: Universidade Federal Rural do Rio de Janeiro (UFRRJ)
Hypothesis
This study aims to provide a detailed account of the veterinary approach, diagnosis, and successful treatment of an acute enteric condition induced by C. perfringens alpha toxin, accompanied by pulmonary involvement, in a neotropical otter under human care.
Conclusion
The study details a successful veterinary approach to treating a neotropical otter suffering from an acute infection caused by Clostridium perfringens alpha toxin, which involved both gastrointestinal and pulmonary complications.
Supporting Evidence
- A quantitative RT-PCR assay detected 43,789 copies of Clostridium perfringens alpha toxin DNA in fecal samples.
- The patient exhibited significant respiratory alterations and a diffuse interstitial-alveolar pattern in chest X-rays.
- Treatment included hydroelectrolyte replacement, analgesia, antibiotics, and antiemetics.
Takeaway
A young otter got very sick from a bacteria that made it have tummy problems and breathing issues, but after some medicine and care, it got better and went back home.
Methodology
The study involved veterinary examination, diagnostic tests including RT-PCR for Clostridium perfringens alpha toxin, imaging studies, and a treatment protocol including fluid therapy and antibiotics.
Limitations
The origin of the infection was not fully elucidated, and the study is based on a single case report.
Participant Demographics
A nine-month-old female neotropical otter weighing 4.14 kg.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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