Diagnosis and treatment of Sarcocystis neurona in a captive harbor seal (Phoca vitulina)
A captive harbor seal (Phoca vitulina) presented with partial anorexia, ataxia, and head bobbing, which progressed to complete anorexia, lethargy, and persistent whole-body intention tremors within several days. Response to treatment with ponazuril, serology, and cerebrospinal fluid analysis support...
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Published in | Journal of zoo and wildlife medicine Vol. 39; no. 2; p. 228 |
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Main Authors | , , |
Format | Journal Article |
Language | English |
Published |
United States
01.06.2008
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Subjects | |
Online Access | Get more information |
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Summary: | A captive harbor seal (Phoca vitulina) presented with partial anorexia, ataxia, and head bobbing, which progressed to complete anorexia, lethargy, and persistent whole-body intention tremors within several days. Response to treatment with ponazuril, serology, and cerebrospinal fluid analysis supported a diagnosis of Sarcocystis neurona. Analysis of serum levels for ponazuril indicated that therapeutic levels could be achieved at a dosage of 5 mg/kg p.o. s.i.d., whereas clinical response was improved at a dosage of 10 mg/kg. Several months after initiation of antiprotozoal therapy, the neurologic signs resolved, although rare intermittent tremors were seen with significant exertion. |
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ISSN: | 1042-7260 |
DOI: | 10.1638/2007-0141R.1 |