[Diagnosis of kidney diseases in European tortoises (Testudo spp.)]

The diagnosis of kidney diseases in tortoises is only possible to a very limited extent on the basis of the general examination due to the development of unspecific disease symptoms. Extensive additional examinations are required to confirm the diagnosis. In addition to blood and urine tests, imaging techniques such as X-ray, computed tomography and MRI are suitable for visualizing the skeletal and organ systems, while additional samples can be taken during an endoscopic examination. There are clear species-specific differences with regard to the reference values of the laboratory parameters, which are in part significantly influenced by environmental influences, the seasons or even gender. It can also be seen that kidney diseases in tortoises kept in captivity are usually very advanced at the time of diagnosis, since these animals, like reptiles in general, show a pronounced lack of symptoms. Annual checks by a veterinarian specialized in reptiles can help to detect diseases at an early stage.