Dermatology in Reptiles

Abstract

One of the most common reasons captive reptiles are presented to a veterinarian is for dermatologic disease. The purpose of this article is to provide readers a review of the most current information related to dermatologic diseases commonly diagnosed in captive reptiles. The article is divided into 2 sections to cover the most common groups of reptiles encountered in practice: 1) chelonians and 2) squamates (snakes and lizards). This review offers concise and practical diagnostic and therapeutic medical approaches that can be used when reptiles present with dermatologic abnormalities. Drug contraindications are highlighted to provide a quick and easy reference as to which drugs should not be used in reptiles.

Key words: dermatology, lizards, reptile, snakes, tortoises, turtles