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Atrial septal defects in Florida panthers.
M W Cunningham1, M R Dunbar, C D Buergelt
1Florida Game and Fresh Water Fish Commission, Wildlife Research Laboratory, Gainesville 32601, USA. markwc@nersp.nerdc.ufl.edu
Journal of Wildlife Diseases
|September 9, 1999
Summary
Atrial septal defects (ASDs) were found in 18% of Florida panthers, with severe cases contributing to mortality. These cardiac anomalies may also be linked to cryptorchidism in male panthers.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Pathology
- Cardiology
- Conservation Medicine
Background:
- Ostium secundum atrial septal defects (ASDs) are congenital heart conditions.
- Understanding cardiac anomalies in endangered species like the Florida panther (Puma concolor coryi) is crucial for conservation efforts.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence and pathological findings of ASDs in Florida panthers.
- To determine the contribution of ASDs and tricuspid valve dysplasia (TVD) to panther mortality.
- To explore potential associations between ASDs and other conditions, such as cryptorchidism.
Main Methods:
- Necropsy of 33 Florida panthers (1985-1998) with gross and histological examination.
- Retrospective evaluation of medical records and antemortem diagnostic imaging (radiography, electrocardiography, echocardiography) for selected cases.
- Pathological assessment of cardiac structures and associated lesions.
Main Results:
- ASDs were identified in 18% (6/33) of necropsied Florida panthers.
- Severe ASDs (> or = 10 mm) were associated with right heart enlargement, dilatation, hypertrophy, and pulmonary edema.
- ASDs and/or TVD were believed to have caused or contributed to the deaths of 9% (3/33) of the panthers.
- All male panthers with ASDs (3/3) were cryptorchid, compared to 53% (9/17) of males without ASDs.
Conclusions:
- ASDs are a significant pathological finding in Florida panthers, with severe cases leading to mortality.
- The study highlights potential links between cardiac defects and other congenital anomalies like cryptorchidism in this population.
- These findings underscore the importance of cardiac health assessment in Florida panther conservation and management.