Hypothyroidism in an African forest buffalo (Syncerus caffer nanus)

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Medicine
• Endocrinology
• Wildlife Biology

Background:

• African forest buffalo (Syncerus caffer nanus) are large herbivores native to Central and West Africa.
• Thyroid hormones, including total triiodothyronine (TT3) and total thyroxine (TT4), are crucial for regulating metabolism, growth, and reproduction in mammals.

Observation:

• An adult female African forest buffalo presented with recurrent hoof overgrowth, persistent anestrous, obesity, dull hair coat, and decreased activity.
• Routine blood work and serum biochemistry were within normal limits.
• Blood analysis revealed decreased concentrations of total triiodothyronine and total thyroxine compared to reference values.

Findings:

• Treatment with oral levothyroxine normalized thyroid hormone levels (TT3 and TT4).
• The buffalo showed significant clinical improvement, including weight loss, improved hair coat, and resumption of reproductive cycling.

Implications:

• This case demonstrates the successful diagnosis and treatment of hypothyroidism in an African forest buffalo.
• Levothyroxine therapy can effectively manage metabolic and reproductive disturbances associated with hypothyroidism in this species.
• Findings suggest the importance of considering thyroid dysfunction in the differential diagnosis of similar clinical signs in exotic ungulates.