Geriatric Freshwater and Marine Fish

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Medicine
• Aquatic Animal Health
• Comparative Medicine

Background:

• Fish medicine is evolving, mirroring advancements in care for other vertebrates.
• Aging captive fish face unique health challenges, including degenerative diseases and neoplasia.
• The acceptance of pain management in fish necessitates sophisticated medical approaches.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the need for advanced diagnostics and treatments for aging fish.
• To discuss the application of therapies commonly used in terrestrial vertebrates to fish.
• To address the challenges and considerations specific to the aquatic environment in fish medicine.

Main Methods:

• Review of current veterinary practices and research in fish medicine.
• Comparison of diseases and treatments between fish and other vertebrate counterparts.
• Discussion of diagnostic and therapeutic modalities applicable to aging fish.

Main Results:

• Degenerative organ/tissue changes and neoplasias in fish require comprehensive diagnosis and treatment.
• Therapeutic options include pain relief, anti-inflammatory medications, chemotherapy, surgery, joint supplements, regenerative cell therapy, and photobiomodulation.
• Recognizing normal aging changes in fish is crucial for effective clinical management.

Conclusions:

• Fish medicine is achieving parity with other vertebrates, especially in pain management and geriatric care.
• Creative medical approaches are essential due to the diversity of fish anatomy, physiology, and behavior.
• Addressing the diseases of aging captive fish requires adapting advanced veterinary techniques to the aquatic environment.