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Dermatophilosis in two polar bears.
Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association
|October 1, 1975
Summary
Dermatophilosis, a skin disease, was diagnosed in captive polar bears. Treatment with long-acting penicillin led to dramatic resolution of skin lesions and improved bear health.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Dermatology
- Wildlife Health
- Mammalian Pathology
Background:
- Dermatophilosis is a bacterial skin infection affecting various animal species.
- Captive wildlife, including polar bears, can be susceptible to dermatological conditions.
- Understanding disease progression and treatment efficacy in exotic animals is crucial for welfare.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a case of dermatophilosis in captive polar bears.
- To describe the clinical signs and duration of the disease.
- To evaluate the effectiveness of long-acting penicillin treatment.
Main Methods:
- Diagnosis of dermatophilosis in two captive polar bears.
- Observation of clinical signs including hair discoloration, pruritus, and skin encrustation.
- Treatment with intramuscular long-acting penicillin administered twice weekly.
Main Results:
- Two of thirteen captive polar bears were diagnosed with dermatophilosis.
- Clinical signs included yellowing/darkening hair, pruritus, skin encrustation, and reluctance to bathe.
- Eight weeks of penicillin treatment resulted in dramatic resolution of lesions.
Conclusions:
- Dermatophilosis can affect captive polar bears, causing significant dermatitis.
- Long-acting penicillin is an effective treatment for dermatophilosis in polar bears.
- Prompt diagnosis and treatment are essential for improving the health and welfare of affected animals.