Journal of Exotic Pet Medicine RSS feed: Current Issue. Journal of Exotic Pet Medicine provides practitioners with a convenient, comprehensive, "must have" resource to enhance and elevate their expertise of exotic pet medicine. Each issue includes a comprehensive, current overview of a special topic in exotic pet medicine, guest edited by an authority in the field. Articles by invited experts focus on topic-related areas and address new treatment techniques that can be immediately applied in the office. Peer-reviewed original research, review articles and case reports; as well as industry news, diagnostic challenges, literature and therapeutic reviews, and practice management articles keep veterinarians up to date on issues affecting their practice. Journal of Exotic Pet Medicine is the most complete resource for practitioners who treat avian and exotic pets. 2009 Issues January Amphibians Natalie D. Mylniczenko April Hematology Miguel D. Saggese July Evidence and Problem Solving Paul Gibbons October Parasites John Cooperhttp://www.exoticpetmedicine.com/?rss=yesElsevier Inc.en © 2009 Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. Journal of Exotic Pet Medicine1557-5063184October 2009 © 2009 Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. healthpermissions@elsevier.comhttp://www.exoticpetmedicine.com/article/PIIS1557506309001657/abstract?rss=yesTable of Contents10.1053/S1557-5063(09)00165-7Journal of Exotic Pet Medicine 18, 4 (2009)2009-10-01Journal of Exotic Pet Medicine2009-10-01184S1557-5063(09)X0005-4iihttp://www.exoticpetmedicine.com/article/PIIS1557506309001645/abstract?rss=yesEditorial Board10.1053/S1557-5063(09)00164-5Journal of Exotic Pet Medicine 18, 4 (2009)2009-10-01Journal of Exotic Pet Medicine2009-10-01184S1557-5063(09)X0005-4iiiiiihttp://www.exoticpetmedicine.com/article/PIIS1557506309001633/abstract?rss=yesSubscriber Info10.1053/S1557-5063(09)00163-3Journal of Exotic Pet Medicine 18, 4 (2009)2009-10-01Journal of Exotic Pet Medicine2009-10-01184S1557-5063(09)X0005-4vvhttp://www.exoticpetmedicine.com/article/PIIS1557506309001104/abstract?rss=yesThe annual AAZV conference will be held October 24–30, 2009 in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Topics include One Health, the Greening of Veterinary Medicine, Wildlife and Conservation Medicine, Wildlife and Zoo Animal Welfare, Disaster Medicine, Epidemiology, as well as many clinical topics. See www.aazv.org for further details.Avian & Exotic NewsFlo Tseng10.1053/j.jepm.2009.09.001Journal of Exotic Pet Medicine 18, 4 (2009)2009-10-01Journal of Exotic Pet Medicine2009-10-01184S1557-5063(09)X0005-4Avian & Exotic News243245http://www.exoticpetmedicine.com/article/PIIS1557506309001116/abstract?rss=yesThe title of this issue of Journal of Exotic Pet Medicine, “Parasites,” appears straightforward. All veterinarians are familiar with what they consider to be parasites, and their training strongly inculcates them with the belief that these organisms are, by definition, pathogenic and potentially dangerous. The term “parasite” certainly has negative connotations. First coined from the Greek word parasitos, meaning “a person eating at another's table,” it has often been applied in a derogatory fashion, as for example 400 years ago when Ben Jonson (Volpone, Act 3, Scene 1, 1606) made this political comment: “Almost all the wise world is little else in nature but parasites or subparasites.” A parasite is usually defined as an organism that lives in or on another organism, from which it derives food and other biological necessities. However, the thinking on this has evolved markedly in recent years. Even terminology is changing as different disciplines become involved in the debate. To most members of the veterinary and medical professions, such organisms are clearly defined as either ectoparasites or endoparasites, but biologists, especially ecologists, think differently, putting them in 2 groups based essentially on size, lifespan, and reproduction: macroparasites and microparasites.Introduction: ParasitesJohn E. Cooper10.1053/j.jepm.2009.09.002Journal of Exotic Pet Medicine 18, 4 (2009)2009-10-01Journal of Exotic Pet Medicine2009-10-01184S1557-5063(09)X0005-4Topics in Medicine and Surgery: Parasites246247http://www.exoticpetmedicine.com/article/PIIS1557506309001128/abstract?rss=yesAbstract: Taking into account that most of the known living organisms are parasites and that they exert a strong influence on the functioning of ecosystems, we can consider parasitism as a successful strategy for life. Because of the harm that parasites can inflict on man and domesticated animals, which can be expressed as economic loss, many parasites become pests. In natural ecosystems, parasites contribute to the prevention of continuous exponential growth of populations and, therefore, they also need to be conserved. The exotic pet trade may result in translocation of exotic species together with their microparasites and macroparasites, potentiating a risk of transmission of exotic diseases to native fauna and to humans. Within this context we need to increase our knowledge of parasites and parasitic diseases of wildlife. Prevention seems to be the choice for managing parasite exposure. This may be achieved through educational programs that refocused on discouraging people to import exotic pets, together with stronger legislative measures to control wildlife trade.Parasites, Pests, and Pets in a Global World: New Perspectives and ChallengesJesús M. Pérez10.1053/j.jepm.2009.09.003Journal of Exotic Pet Medicine 18, 4 (2009)2009-10-01Journal of Exotic Pet Medicine2009-10-01184S1557-5063(09)X0005-4Topics in Medicine and Surgery: Parasites248253http://www.exoticpetmedicine.com/article/PIIS1557506309001578/abstract?rss=yesAbstract: Parasites are found in and on all living organisms. The ways in which a parasite manipulates the behavior of the host to its own advantage are wide ranging and are summarized in this article. Some of these methods aim to increase the rate of transmission from intermediate to definitive host by increasing or reducing activity that results in increased vulnerability of the intermediate host to predation, suppressing a host's fear response, or its ability to recognize a predator. Others aim to downregulate the reproductive fitness of a host (parasitic castration), allowing the parasite to maximize nutrient-taking from the host without reducing the survival ability of the host. In an evolutionary “arms race,” hosts have counteracted by evolving resistance to parasite infections and/or developing a tolerance against their harmful effects. These defense mechanisms include reducing the chances of getting infected via a change in habitat or food preference; generating behavioral fever; and recognizing and avoiding infected individuals, both as potential prey species and sexual partners. If an infection could not be prevented, the parasites can be attacked or removed by the host's behavior, such as scratching, grooming, and immersion in water. Behavioral changes (e.g., lethargy, inappetance, scratching, general malaise) are generally some of the most common reasons why an owner brings an animal to a veterinary practitioner, and these clinical signs can be indicative of a parasite infection. This article reviews some of the signs in exotic animals for which a veterinarian should be observant, especially if the patient is suspected of having a parasitic infection.Behavioral Effects of Parasitism in AnimalsKristel-Marie Nerissa Ramnath10.1053/j.jepm.2009.10.004Journal of Exotic Pet Medicine 18, 4 (2009)2009-10-01Journal of Exotic Pet Medicine2009-10-01184S1557-5063(09)X0005-4Topics in Medicine and Surgery: Parasites254265http://www.exoticpetmedicine.com/article/PIIS155750630900113X/abstract?rss=yesAbstract: This article outlines the principal gastrointestinal protozoal diseases that have been recorded as affecting reptiles. It covers 9 genera of flagellates/amoebae, 1 ciliate genus, and 5 genera of coccidia, describing their pertinent anatomy and what is known about their epidemiology, including clinical presenting signs and intestinal pathological changes. The agents are initially discussed individually and, to avoid repetition, common information about diagnostics, treatment, and control is then presented.Gastrointestinal Protozoal Diseases in ReptilesFrancis T. Scullion, M. Geraldine Scullion10.1053/j.jepm.2009.09.004Journal of Exotic Pet Medicine 18, 4 (2009)2009-10-01Journal of Exotic Pet Medicine2009-10-01184S1557-5063(09)X0005-4Topics in Medicine and Surgery: Parasites266278http://www.exoticpetmedicine.com/article/PIIS1557506309001141/abstract?rss=yesAbstract: Preservation of biodiversity is one of the fundamental objectives of conservation. Animal conservation programs, however, tend to be dominated by charismatic vertebrate species. Many parasites are highly specialized, having evolved to depend on a single species and may be rarer and hence more endangered than their specific hosts. The phenomenon of coextinction, in which there is the loss of affiliated species such as parasites, needs consideration if conservation is not to fall victim to taxonomic chauvinism. Broad-spectrum antiparasitic drugs when used in free-living wildlife can have an effect on nontargeted species and the wider ecosystem. It is also recognized that parasites may have a role to play in the normal functioning of a host's immune system when the two have coevolved over an extended period of time. Although the concept of parasite conservation is in itself controversial, this is further complicated when deciding to which areas of conservation medicine it should apply.Veterinarians and Taxonomic Chauvinism: The Dilemma of Parasite ConservationRomain Pizzi10.1053/j.jepm.2009.09.005Journal of Exotic Pet Medicine 18, 4 (2009)2009-10-01Journal of Exotic Pet Medicine2009-10-01184S1557-5063(09)X0005-4Topics in Medicine and Surgery: Parasites279282http://www.exoticpetmedicine.com/article/PIIS1557506309001153/abstract?rss=yesAbstract: Exotic animal medicine has evolved to include an increasing amount of veterinary treatment of a wide variety of species, including invertebrates. Tarantula spiders, being long-lived and visually charismatic, are among the most popular invertebrate pets and zoological exhibits. Several diseases are recognized in captive tarantulas, some of the most important of which are parasitic. Management and treatment of invertebrate parasites of patients such as tarantulas, which are themselves invertebrates, present some unique challenges to the exotic animal clinician.Parasites of Tarantulas (Theraphosidae)Romain Pizzi10.1053/j.jepm.2009.09.006Journal of Exotic Pet Medicine 18, 4 (2009)2009-10-01Journal of Exotic Pet Medicine2009-10-01184S1557-5063(09)X0005-4Topics in Medicine and Surgery: Parasites283288http://www.exoticpetmedicine.com/article/PIIS1557506309001165/abstract?rss=yesAbstract: Diagnostic investigations and tests play a key part in the detection, identification, and study of parasites, and in the determination of their role in disease. Although some require the expertise and facilities of a specialist laboratory, many others can be performed easily, competently, and at low cost in the clinic. The veterinarian may also need to perform laboratory tests away from home and at times in the field (e.g., client's house, zoo, wildlife park, rehabilitation center). Under such circumstances, a range of portable, usually lightweight equipment may be used, including battery- and solar-powered products. When investigating any parasite disease problem, the use of properly formulated and updated protocols is essential, including those needed to implement safety measures.In-practice and Field Techniques for the Investigation of Parasitic InfectionsJohn E. Cooper10.1053/j.jepm.2009.09.007Journal of Exotic Pet Medicine 18, 4 (2009)2009-10-01Journal of Exotic Pet Medicine2009-10-01184S1557-5063(09)X0005-4Topics in Medicine and Surgery: Parasites289298http://www.exoticpetmedicine.com/article/PIIS1557506309001177/abstract?rss=yesAbstract: This article describes the management of otitis media in a domestic rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) that presented with a history of chronic upper respiratory disease. Deep nasal culture yielded a pure growth of Bordetella bronchiseptica susceptible to chloramphenicol. To further evaluate recurring clinical signs after treatment with chloramphenicol, skull radiographs were obtained and showed an increased density in the right tympanic bulla. A ventral bulla osteotomy was performed, and the success of treatment was determined by the resolution of respiratory signs and the absence of increased radiographic density in the right tympanic bulla 5 months postoperatively.Ventral Bulla Osteotomy for Treatment of Otitis Media in a RabbitEric P. Chow, R. Avery Bennett, Lynn Dustin10.1053/j.jepm.2009.09.008Journal of Exotic Pet Medicine 18, 4 (2009)2009-10-01Journal of Exotic Pet Medicine2009-10-01184S1557-5063(09)X0005-4AEMV Forum299305http://www.exoticpetmedicine.com/article/PIIS1557506309001189/abstract?rss=yesAbstract: Although mycobacteria have been isolated from rodents, overt mycobacteriosis is rare in any rodent species. A pet adult male Richardson's ground squirrel (Spermophilus richardsonii) died after a short course of alopecia, anorexia, and weight loss. Necropsy and subsequent histopathological examination of tissue samples revealed disseminated granulomatous inflammation involving the lungs, lymph nodes, liver, intestine, adrenal gland, spleen, pleura, and peritoneum. Ziehl-Neelsen stain revealed high numbers of acid-fast bacilli within the cytoplasm of macrophages and multinucleated giant cells. Polymerase chain reaction performed on paraffin-embedded tissues was positive for Mycobacterium avium subsp. avium and negative for M. bovis-tuberculosis complex. Three females housed with this squirrel remained clinically healthy, and mycobacterial cultures of pooled feces from these animals were negative. To the authors' knowledge, this is the second report of disseminated mycobacteriosis in squirrels involving M. avium subsp. avium, with both cases described recently in the Iberian Peninsula.Disseminated Mycobacterium avium subsp. avium infection in a Captive Richardson's Ground Squirrel (Spermophilus richardsonii)Carles Juan-Sallés, Rui Patrício, Joseba Garrido, Michael M. Garner10.1053/j.jepm.2009.09.009Journal of Exotic Pet Medicine 18, 4 (2009)2009-10-01Journal of Exotic Pet Medicine2009-10-01184S1557-5063(09)X0005-4AEMV Forum306310http://www.exoticpetmedicine.com/article/PIIS1557506309001190/abstract?rss=yesAs the field of avian and exotic pet cardiology develops, cardiovascular diseases are increasingly being recognized. Congestive heart failure is the most commonly diagnosed cardiac disease in birds, reptiles, and small mammals, and its long-term treatment is challenging in these species. A clear understanding of the properties and mechanisms of cardiovascular drugs is imperative to decrease morbidity and improve survival of avian and exotic pets, especially when multi-drug treatments are used. Conventional therapies for congestive heart failure include diuretics, cardiac glycosides, and vasodilators. Digoxin is the most commonly prescribed cardiac glycoside. It is a weak-positive inotrope and therefore mildly increases cardiac contractility. However, chronic use of cardiac glycosides has several limitations, including a low therapeutic index and the propensity to induce arrhythmias. This is heightened in avian and exotic species because of the lack of pharmacodynamic data, the necessity to compound most of the cardiac drugs, and the small size of the patients, which renders accurate dosage more difficult to achieve. New positive inotropic agents with higher safety margins and stronger effects on cardiac contractility have been introduced in human and veterinary cardiology during the last 20 years, and their use needs to be explored in the exotic patient.PimobendanHugues Beaufrère, Romain Pariaut10.1053/j.jepm.2009.09.010Journal of Exotic Pet Medicine 18, 4 (2009)2009-10-01Journal of Exotic Pet Medicine2009-10-01184S1557-5063(09)X0005-4Therapeutic Review311313http://www.exoticpetmedicine.com/article/PIIS1557506309001438/abstract?rss=yes An adult male wild-caught speckled kingsnake (Lampropeltis getula holbrooki) of unknown age was presented from a local zoological institution for a 1-month history of a mass located on the dorsum of the snake (). The snake was housed individually while being maintained in husbandry conditions that were considered appropriate. The snake was fed and ate 2 prekilled mice weekly with no change in the animal's appetite or feeding behavior. On physical examination, the snake was found to be bright, alert, and responsive. The snake was in good body condition (3.5/5), and its heart rate was 72 beats per minute and respiratory rate was 24 respirations per minute. The mass was located over the spine at the level of the heart, approximately 25% distance from the head. The mass was 2×1.5 cm, firm, and freely movable (not attached to spine).Diagnostic ChallengeStacy Burdick, Mark A. Mitchell10.1053/j.jepm.2009.09.013Journal of Exotic Pet Medicine 18, 4 (2009)2009-10-01Journal of Exotic Pet Medicine2009-10-01184S1557-5063(09)X0005-4Diagnostic Challenge314318http://www.exoticpetmedicine.com/article/PIIS1557506309001207/abstract?rss=yesClinical Radiology of Exotic Companion Mammals is a single hardcover volume written and edited by exotic animal medicine veterinarians Angela M. Lennox and Vittorio Capello with the assistance of veterinary radiologist William R. Widmer and 9 additional contributing authors. The book focuses almost exclusively on radiography, with some explanation and examples of computed tomography (CT). After an introductory chapter on positioning, technique, and equipment, each of the remaining 14 chapters is focused on one animal species. Over two thirds of the book is dedicated to the radiographic anatomy and pathology of the rabbit, guinea pig, ferret, chinchilla, and hamster. The remaining third provides the same information on the less commonly imaged species including prairie dog, squirrel, potbellied pig, opossum, skunk, rat, degu, sugar glider, hedgehog, and mouse. The book uses an atlas style and provides 504 pages filled with good-quality radiographic images, supplemented with clinical or gross pathology color photographs.James Sutherland-Smith10.1053/j.jepm.2009.09.011Journal of Exotic Pet Medicine 18, 4 (2009)2009-10-01Journal of Exotic Pet Medicine2009-10-01184S1557-5063(09)X0005-4Literature Review319320http://www.exoticpetmedicine.com/article/PIIS1557506309001219/abstract?rss=yesIt has been estimated that 64% of the more than 1400 recognized human pathogens are zoonotic, and that 73% of 177 emerging or re-emerging pathogens have originated in animals. The purpose of this study was to identify published reports regarding zoonotic pathogen infection among veterinarians. The PubMed electronic database of medical literature published between 1966 and November 2007 was searched. Clinical case reports and reports of outbreak investigations were also identified through searches of the literature outside of PubMed. A second literature search was performed to identify reports of veterinary compliance with safety guidelines. Reports eligible for inclusion included controlled and uncontrolled studies examining seroprevalence of animal pathogens in veterinarians, serosurveys involving veterinarians, and reports of zoonotic pathogen infections causing clinical illness. Sixty-six articles were considered relevant for review. These included 44 seroepidemiologic studies, 12 case reports, 3 outbreak investigations, and 7 self-reported surveys. Of the 44 seroepidemiologic studies, 37 (84%) identified an increased risk of zoonotic pathogen infection among veterinarians and 7 (16%) identified no increased risk or a decreased risk. Different serosurveys reported a higher seroprevalence of antibodies against Brucella spp., Coxiella burnetti, avian and feline Chlamydophila psittaci, methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, swine and avian influenza viruses, human and swine hepatitis E virus, and Bartonella spp. in veterinarians when compared with control groups. The authors suggest that veterinarians could serve as biological sentinels for these pathogens and could inadvertently spread zoonotic pathogens to their families, community members, and the animals for which they provide care. In addition, they also found that veterinarians were often lax in their use of personal protective equipment. The authors suggest that professional and policy measures should be implemented to reduce the risk that veterinarians will become infected with, or transmit, zoonotic pathogens.AbstractsFlo Tseng10.1053/j.jepm.2009.09.012Journal of Exotic Pet Medicine 18, 4 (2009)2009-10-01Journal of Exotic Pet Medicine2009-10-01184S1557-5063(09)X0005-4Literature Review320323