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Related Experiment Video

Updated: May 10, 2026

Immunization of Alpacas (Lama pacos) with Protein Antigens and Production of Antigen-specific Single Domain Antibodies

Immunization of Alpacas (Lama pacos) with Protein Antigens and Production of Antigen-specific Single Domain Antibodies

Published on: January 26, 2019

[Pyometra and persistent hymen in an alpaca].

C Egloff¹, C Gerspach, M Rütten

¹Klinik für Reproduktionsmedizin, Vetsuisse-Fakultät der Universität Zürich, Winterthurerstrasse 260, CH-8057 Zürich. ubleul@vetclinics.uzh.ch

Tierarztliche Praxis. Ausgabe G, Grosstiere/Nutztiere

|June 15, 2013

Summary

A persistent hymen in an alpaca led to pyometra (pus in the uterus) and subsequent intestinal complications. Surgical treatment for pyometra was initially successful, but later adhesions caused fatal colic.

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Area of Science:

Veterinary Medicine
Reproductive Endocrinology
Surgical Pathology

Background:

Persistent hymens are rare congenital anomalies in female animals.
Pyometra, a serious uterine infection, can arise from various reproductive tract abnormalities.
Alpacas, as camelids, present unique physiological considerations in reproductive health.

Observation:

A 3-year-old female alpaca presented with tenesmus and habitual vaginal prolapse.
Vaginoscopy revealed a persistent hymen, and ultrasonography showed an echogenic, fluid-filled uterus.
Diagnostic laparotomy confirmed pyometra, successfully treated with ovariohysterectomy.

Findings:

The alpaca experienced an uneventful recovery from ovariohysterectomy.
1.5 years later, the alpaca was readmitted with colic.
Necropsy revealed hemorrhagic infarction of the jejunum due to incarceration in a fibrous adhesion between the vaginal stump and small intestine.

Implications:

This case highlights the potential long-term complications of reproductive anomalies, even after initial successful treatment.
Fibrous adhesions following surgery can lead to life-threatening conditions like intestinal incarceration.
Early detection and management of congenital reproductive abnormalities are crucial for alpaca health and welfare.