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Published on: January 7, 2014
Chronic endometritis in an Asian elephant (Elephas maximus)
Heike Aupperle1, Anne Reischauer, Franz Bach
1Institut für Veterinär-Pathologie, An den Tierkliniken 33, 04103 Leipzig, Germany. aupperle@rz.uni-leipzig.de
Summary
A female Asian elephant experienced recurrent hematuria due to severe endometritis, a uterine infection. Necropsy revealed a severely enlarged uterus filled with pus, alongside other health issues.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Medicine
- Elephant Health
- Pathology
Background:
- A 48-year-old female Asian elephant presented with a history of pododermatitis and developed recurrent hematuria.
- Initial investigations ruled out hemorrhagic cystitis, identifying the uterus as the source of bleeding.
Observation:
- The elephant received treatments including Desloreline implants, antibiotics, and homeopathic drugs, showing temporary improvement.
- The elephant was found deceased, with necropsy revealing a severely enlarged uterus containing approximately 250 liters of purulent fluid.
Findings:
- Histopathology confirmed ulcerative suppurative endometritis, with high bacterial loads of Streptococcus equi ssp. zooepidemicus and Escherichia coli.
- Concurrent findings included multifocal severe pododermatitis, a uterine leiomyoma, and extensive abdominal fat necrosis.
Implications:
- This case highlights the severe consequences of endometritis in elephants, potentially exacerbated by concurrent conditions.
- Understanding the complex interplay of infections and other pathologies is crucial for managing elephant health and welfare.
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