Lingual abscess in a South American tapir (Tapirus terrestris): A diagnostic challenge

Abstract

AbstractAn 18‐year‐old, male South American tapir (Tapirus terrestris) presented with acute oropharyngeal damage beginning with moderate macroglossia, ptyalism and dysphagia, and rapidly progressing to severe macroglossia with hypoglossal nerve sensory and motor damage. Investigations did not allow the authors to find the origin of this damage and, in view of the deterioration of the general state and wellbeing of the animal despite the care provided, euthanasia was carried out. Anatomical and histopathological examination revealed a lingual and sublingual abscess of undetermined origin associated with lesions of bacterial interstitial pneumonia, probably secondary to dysphagia. This case illustrates the diagnostic failure of investigations performed, including submandibular ultrasound by a ventral approach and fine‐needle aspiration, which are supposed to be efficient in the diagnostic of lingual abscesses.