Paecilomyces lilacinus Pneumonia in a Free-Ranging Gopher Tortoise, Gopherus polyphemus, in Louisiana

Abstract

ABSTRACT A debilitated, free-ranging, adult female gopher tortoise, Gopherus polyphemus, was presented to the Wildlife Hospital of Louisiana at the Louisiana State University School of Veterinary Medicine in August 2002. Physical examination revealed a severely dehydrated tortoise (>10%) with generalized muscle atrophy. A blood sample (1.5 ml) was collected and submitted for a complete blood count and mycoplasma serology, and survey radiographs were taken. The complete blood count revealed significant monocytosis (2.4 × 103 cell/ml), and the radiographs demonstrated a focal, ill-defined soft tissue mass in the cranial dorsal aspect of the right lung. The initial treatment plan consisted of correcting fluid deficits (a combination of normosol and 2.5% dextrose, 406 ml, intracoelomically), providing enteral nutrition, and the provision of a broad-spectrum antibiotic (Ceftazidime, 20 mg/kg, IM, q 72 h). Unfortunately, the tortoise's condition worsened, and it was elected to euthanize the animal. Paecilomyces...