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Persistent right aortic arch in a yearling captive wood bison (Bison bison athabascae)
Martin Peters1, Rüdiger Koch, Jens Kämmerling
1Department of Pathology, School of Veterinary Medicine, Buenteweg 17, D-30559 Hannover, Germany.
Summary
A rare vascular ring anomaly, persistent right aortic arch, caused fatal megaesophagus in a young wood bison (Bison bison athabascae). This condition, leading to esophageal obstruction and inflammation, has not been previously documented in this species.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Pathology
- Comparative Anatomy
- Ruminant Physiology
Background:
- Vascular ring anomalies, such as a persistent right aortic arch, can cause esophageal compression in animals.
- These anomalies are uncommon in ruminants, with limited documentation in bison species.
Observation:
- A 16-month-old captive wood bison presented with severe dysphagia and postprandial regurgitation.
- The animal experienced rapid deterioration and expired during preparation for diagnostic procedures.
Findings:
- Necropsy revealed a persistent right aortic arch, forming a vascular ring that encircled the esophagus and trachea.
- This vascular ring resulted in a megaesophagus characterized by complete esophageal obstipation and ulcerative esophagitis.
- An aberrant left subclavian artery was noted but did not significantly contribute to esophageal compromise.
Implications:
- This case represents the first reported instance of a persistent right aortic arch in a wood bison.
- The findings highlight the potential for congenital vascular anomalies to cause severe gastrointestinal dysfunction and mortality in bison.
- Understanding these rare conditions is crucial for accurate diagnosis and management of esophageal disorders in captive wildlife.