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Portosystemic shunt in an alpaca cria
Jennifer M Ivany1, David E Anderson, Stephen J Birchard
1Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus 43210-1089, USA.
Summary
A rare colonic vein shunt was diagnosed in a growing alpaca with poor growth and diarrhea. Surgical ligation of the shunt improved the alpaca's condition, highlighting the importance of considering portosystemic shunts in similar cases.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Comparative Pathology
- Surgical Innovation
Background:
- Portosystemic vascular anomalies are uncommon in camelids.
- Alpacas presenting with chronic poor growth and gastrointestinal issues often undergo parasitic evaluation.
- Elevated serum bile acid and blood ammonia levels can indicate hepatic dysfunction or shunting.
Observation:
- A 5-month-old alpaca exhibited persistent poor growth and recurrent diarrhea.
- Initial diagnostic workup, including fecal parasite examination, was unremarkable.
- Advanced imaging and exploratory surgery were required to identify the underlying pathology.
Findings:
- A congenital colonic vein shunt between the caudal vena cava and portal vein was identified.
- The shunt was surgically ligated, resolving the abnormal vascular connection.
- Post-ligation, the alpaca demonstrated significant improvement in weight gain and alertness.
Implications:
- This case underscores the necessity of considering portosystemic shunts in alpacas with unexplained chronic poor growth, even when parasitism is ruled out.
- Successful surgical intervention for congenital vascular anomalies can lead to substantial clinical improvement in affected camelids.
- Further research into the prevalence and diagnostic approaches for portosystemic shunts in alpacas is warranted.