Severe Hydroxyapatite Deposition Disease in Binturongs (Arctictis binturong)

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Pathology
• Comparative Pathology
• Zoological Medicine

Background:

• Calcinosis circumscripta is a rare condition characterized by calcium and phosphate deposition.
• This condition is infrequently documented in exotic animals, particularly binturongs (Arctictis binturong).
• Potential links to renal dysfunction or primary metabolic abnormalities warrant further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the clinical, diagnostic, and necropsy findings of calcinosis circumscripta in binturongs.
• To identify the mineral composition in affected tissues.
• To characterize the pathological manifestations of this condition in the species.

Main Methods:

• Clinical case observation and supportive care.
• Surgical biopsy for histopathological diagnosis.
• Necropsy with gross and microscopic examination of tissues.
• Spectroscopic microanalysis of footpad biopsies.

Main Results:

• Three of six young binturongs presented with anorexia, lethargy, and footpad swelling.
• Affected animals showed progressive weight loss, hyperphosphatemia, and hyperkalemia.
• Necropsy revealed extensive periarticular, renal, and pulmonary mineralization consistent with hydroxyapatite deposition disease.

Conclusions:

• Calcinosis circumscripta in binturongs is associated with significant morbidity and mortality.
• The condition involves widespread hydroxyapatite deposition, affecting multiple organ systems.
• Further research is needed to elucidate the etiology, whether primary or secondary to renal injury, in this species.