Computed tomographic characterization of the pulmonary system in clinically normal alpacas

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Anatomy
• Medical Imaging
• Comparative Medicine

Background:

• Alpaca pulmonary anatomy is not well-defined using advanced imaging techniques.
• Accurate anatomical knowledge is crucial for diagnosing respiratory conditions in alpacas.

Purpose of the Study:

• To quantitatively characterize the normal pulmonary anatomy of healthy adult alpacas using multidetector row computed tomography (CT).
• To establish reference values for lung structures to aid in clinical interpretation.

Main Methods:

• Computed tomography (CT) of the thorax was performed on 10 healthy adult female alpacas before and after contrast administration.
• Measurements of the trachea, bronchi, pulmonary vessels, and lung parenchyma density were obtained using a DICOM viewer.
• Morphometric and quantitative data were analyzed.

Main Results:

• Lung lobe separation was not discernible except for the accessory lobe; lungs extended further caudally medially.
• The right lung was larger cranially and caudally compared to the left lung.
• Bronchial branching involved one cranial and three caudal bronchi bilaterally, with a right accessory bronchus; mean bronchial diameter was 3-9 mm, and parenchymal lung density ranged from -869 ± 40 HU pre-contrast to -825 ± 51 HU post-contrast.

Conclusions:

• Multidetector row CT provides detailed characterization of alpaca pulmonary anatomy.
• This data is essential for veterinarians for accurate clinical assessment and bronchoscopic evaluation in alpacas.
• Understanding typical anatomy aids in identifying pathological changes.